Flooding on Trout Rivers in North East?

[Troutlassie124]

Many of the really nice trout rivers and streams have been at an extremely high stage causing much damage to property. What effect will the current flooding in the northeast have on the fish and fishing in general. When is the best time to try to fish them and what sort of approach do you suggest? Obviously wading may be hazardous until the torrents recede somewhat, but which flies, etc. would you recommend?

[freeze69]

i feel for you. everything that your getting as far as rain has come through indiana. rivers, streams, and lakes are all up. and the way it looks its not going to stop any time soon. raining now.

very wet in indiana.

[BigCliff]

Terrestrials (ants, beetles, etc) tend to work better after a rainshower, but I'm not so sure what to suggest after a flood. I might try some big streamers on a sink tip. The fish might be looking for a big meal after fighting to not get swept away.

Please be careful though!

[Piscator]

If you can still find a copy of April 2006 American Angler you will find a article called "Flood Control" which list 10 time-tested patterns to use in swollen springtime rivers. The following is the list of the ten patterns:

1. Conehead Marabou Muddler, Yellow
2. Craft Fur Mickey Finn
3. Marabou Black Ghost
4. Kennebago Muddler
5. Conehead Marabou Muddler, Black
6. Dick's Awesome Lake Wulff
7. Peacock Woolly Bugger
8. The Usual
9. Nondescript Nymph
10. Altmar Stonefly Nymph

Hope this helps.
Thanks,
Terry