Flaming Gorge 6/20 to 6/22/06

[leaky]

Sparky and I went to the Gorge for some smallie fishing from the tube for our annual trip. Whether was mid to high seventies in the day and mid forties at night and clear. Didn't measure water temp. but my guess it was in the mid 60's. Fished the Spring Creek and Jug Hollow area. Saw my usual wildlife, ducks geese, pair of osprey fishing and nesting on my little island, antelope, coyotes. My opinion is the spawn is over since none of the fish I kept for eating had any eggs. Looks like only the smaller males were left where I was fishing but quantity wise, can't complain. My best guess is the larger fish have move out of the bays and are hanging out in deeper water adjacent to the bays along the steeper banks. The one in the picture was at this type of location. Should have fished that sooner, caught him on next to my last cast in deeper water. Was catching bigger fish there. Might go back with one of my fishing buddies next week and I'll try the deeper drop offs first thing. Sparky and I had a great time there like we always do. [] What I fail to understand is why more folks don't fish this area for smallies? Not many people, wonderful country, and great fishing????? Maybe they just don't post a report? [unimpressed]

P.S. Caught them all on Maniac's reaper, weed less, small split shot about 9 in. from the reaper

Leaky

[Theekillerbee]

Nice report Fred. I'll bet you and Sparky had a great time. Nice bass too!
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[TubeDude]

[cool][#0000ff]Excellent report. Glad you guys had a good time and found the fishies willing to play.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I am sure that a lot of folks are reluctant to drive that far for fish that are readily available close to home. With the price of gas these days, most people would rather catch fewer fish and not have to take out a second mortgage on the house.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]No doubt about it. There are LOTS of smallies in the Gorge and it could stand a lot more harvest. But, most anglers go there for the fish with spots and slime. That's okay. More basses for those who appreciate them.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]When will you be ready for a return trip? Might be interested in joining you and your furry kid.[/#0000ff]
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[leaky]

Hey Pat,
Was wondering if I got you pissed off at me. [sly] Glad to see you're still yaking at me. [] What type of get together? Going back to the Gorge with one of my other fishing buddies next week. I'm hooked on those big channels now. Can't wait to have the old rod bent double and the drag singing again. Sparky and I might even go so far as to get there early for once!!!! Probably have to leave Sparky home though if I want any hope for success since I'd have to fish where I could keep track of him. [unsure]
Leaky

[TubeDude]

[cool][#0000ff]Hey ol' friend, how could I ever be mad at you? Us old #$&%s have to stick together. Love ya, man.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Can't make the Gorge probably until about mid July. But, there should be plenty of bass and kitties on the prowl then. PM me and we can work out a plan.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Same for Utah Lake kitties. Let me know when you got a hole in your busy social schedule and have your people contact my people. Just don't put Sparky on the phone. He is easier to understand in person. Love him too.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]If you wanna keep it more local, let's tube Willard for some wipers and kitties. Got a good spot to launch within easy kick of the good action.[/#0000ff]
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[leaky]

Man that's a deal,
After next week, I'll get back with ya via e-mail. Not sure about the Gorge for a third time, long way and gas $$$$, but we'll talk.
Leaky