I found a stream on a map that (apparently) had brook trout and was a little “confused” as to seeing a literal trickle of water and saying to myself, “This isn’t the stream”.

Well, it was. But, me and my dad drove further down and eventually saw some somewhat deep-looking pools. Unfortunately, this part of NJ I’m in is in a mild drought, but at least not like last year’s…

So, it being and already small stream or, might I say, brook, it was super small and shallow. I still am baffled at these fish’s ability to survive (Can’t imagine it during last year’s fall).

So, I got out a small wool indy and a size 16 Walt’s and hoped for the best. 

The first “hole” I fished I saw my indicator pop down in the current, thinking it was a snag. I lifted up and saw something very small but then it came off. I didn’t know for sure at the time but it was definitely a brookie, being that I saw white (being its belly). 

I kept fishing in the small puddles of water and I saw a fish take my nymph. Probably at about 3 inches and I had it on for a few seconds and caught a glimpse.. then I realized they were indeed trout. This happened many times, sadly… probably because they were so small. But even then, I did hook up on some decent ones, and they came off pretty quickly. In fact, I lost an 10 inch pumpkin :(

Anyone know why? I was using a barbless size 16 hook (not impeded and sharp) and I wouldn’t have too much slack. I was thinking it was possibly my 5wt because it might’ve not had enough give. I‘m not sure though.

Anyways, I landed two and it was a beautiful day on the water. :)

NJ wild brookies