Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2020 - 9

Also, it is not uncommon to
find substantially larger trout in
tiny, blue-line streams in the fall
when Brook Trout and Brown
Trout spawn. These breeders
sometimes travel great distances
to complete the cycle of life. The
fry hatch and grow in the relatively
protected tributaries until fish are
large enough to make the journey
downstream. In this way, many of
these blue-lines are much more
than just wild trout streams. These
tributaries serve as nursery waters
for many of the larger rivers and
streams and are indicators of a
watershed's overall health.

Blue-line tactics

The native Brook Trout and wild Brown Trout found in blue-line streams are not measured
in inches but by the satisfaction of exploring remote streams where few anglers go.

I don't fret over fly choice. The
trout that live in blue-line streams
are generally opportunistic and
seldom pass up a big, gaudy nymph or dry fly as long as the
presentation is good.
If you have to enter the water at any point, chances
are you are already beat. The smaller the water, the more
sensitive trout are to the vibrations on land, and especially
to those on the streambed. All the more reason to walk
slowly and avoid sudden movements.
It is helpful if you can spot the fish before making your
first cast, but that is usually impossible. In larger rivers,
where the water depth itself is a form of structure, trout

A stealthy approach is a must on blue-line trout streams.
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may feel safe out in the open. Small stream trout do not
have that luxury. Typically, the first time you see small
stream trout is as the fish bolt out from under a rock, log,
or some other structure to either take your presentation or
vacate the premises.
Sometimes, you have to cover a lot of water to locate
big fish that are accessible. In truth, many of the larger
trout living in these diminutive dwellings are simply
uncatchable. Your only hope is to catch these trout in
another part of the stream or after a rainstorm muddies
the water enough to conceal
your approach.
Consistent success in normal
conditions usually means walking
farther than most anglers are
willing to walk. On some streams,
pools can be pretty scattered and
you have to cover a lot of ground
to find holding water. However,
it does not take a lot of depth
to harbor trout, but it does take
structure, and wild and native
trout use every bit of available
structure to avoid predators.
In a way, exploring many blueline streams is trout fishing in its
purest form. It is an opportunity
to experience the natural beauty
and wariness of streambed trout.
The quest for these little gems
can lead you into remote areas,
where few anglers have traveled
and provide a sense of adventure
and gratification. Blue-line trout
fishing is a worthy pursuit.

Pennsylvania Angler & Boater * September/October 2020

9
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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2020

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