O/T (probably) early season salty smelt info?

[FishcaneNH]

Hi, All~
I'm guessing that this isn't a fly topic, but can anyone tell me about early season smelt fishing? I've heard that it can start as early as the end of this month, but how does it all work? I've always waited until the water gets hard before chasing them...

Any help is appreciated, on-board or off, as you prefer.

Thanks!

Dan

[Steve H.]

My understanding is that the public docks at Rye Harbor are a popular spot for early-winter smelting, of course at night (I think the docks are kept lit). Haven't heard if they're in yet, though.

[s2ary]

yup' I've seen them at Rye in early November. Use really small flies. :wink:

[FishcaneNH]

Thanks, gents. I think I read the same F&G memo that you may have read- it's what got me wondering about the whole deal. May have to try it early this year.

Anyone know of any tiny salty dry patterns 8) ?

Thanks again for the replies- more are welcome if anyone has any other ideas.

Dan

[s2ary]

griffith gnat :wink:

[Steve H.]

Actually I prefer a #32 Adams on 14X (.0325 lb.) tippet. Of course that's cast on my 0000-wt. Orvis Superfine rod. :shock:

[FishcaneNH]

Shouldn't that be an extra-super-duperfine? 14x is tough to lay out well with anything much heavier... :wink:

Dan