Before you pack your gear and head our way for a little R&R and fishing, be sure to pack a few necessary items.
One advantage of fishing around Red River is that most fishing can be done from the bank. But if you do venture into the water, remember, all waterways in this area are melted snow. First timer waders in the streams might find the water temperature a bit cold. However, it’s only cold when you first get in – after a while you won’t be able to feel your legs anyway without proper gear. Star Trading has some great gear to protect your from teeth chattering. That kind of noise will scare the fish away.
There are plenty of opportunities whether you are on the banks, river fishing, fly fishing or fishing on the lakes. Pick your spot and prepare to do some serious catching.
Fishing on the Fly
Being stealthy and speedy are important in fly fishing. Cast upstream – usually the fish are waiting for something to float downstream and will have their backs to you – so to speak. It’s also important to keep your shadow away from places they may be hiding. They didn’t get to be this big without being very cautious of big shadows.
The trout will generally bite at the first sign of food coming over the rocks. They “lay in wait” for food. Try the Ant Fly lure. If they don’t strike immediately, move to a different spot and come back later. The Elk Hair Caddis is another great lure that will become your best friend. Remember, certain streams and locations require barbless hooks; so be sure to check out the rules by visiting the state’s website New Mexico Rules and Regulations regarding fishing.
Another great spot in the stream is where the water “funnels” on its descent downstream. With the funneling of water also comes the funneling of food…..and fish know that.
The center of the main current is good as well – for all the same reasons.
Now that we have picked our favorite fly, we recommend the Cabela’s Bighorn Fly Combo. This unit will let beginners “get their feet wet” on a budget. Those offer medium to fast action for the short to midrange casting – is generally where beginners feel more comfortable.
On the Ice
A young fisherman, Landon Faust, age 13, from Loranger, La, has taught us a few things recently about ice fishing on Eagle Nest Lake. O.K., we know there is no ice in Louisiana but he knows a thing or two about the subject and this lake. “No fish is worth dying for…..Make sure the ice is thick.” he says, adding, “Tip up fishing can keep you from constantly tugging on the line to see if anything is there. The flag will raise on the ‘tip up’ when there is a fish on the line. This lets you fish several holes at once.” Oh, to be so smart at 13. Yes, we do start our fishermen young. When fishing Eagle Nest Lake, keep all the Northern Pikes you can catch – no restrictions on quantity or size.
After a day in, on, or near the water, head on back into Red River to Brett’s Bistro for Prime Rib, Ribeye, or Fried Catfish that makes my mouth water just thinking about it. Settle in to a cabin, throw that gear on the floor, and enjoy a hot shower to warm your toes and anything else that may have gotten a bit chilly.
