Report from Fletcher’s Cove - March 21, 2010

If you have lived in Washington for a few years, you know this… never count out a season too soon. I’ve seen many a hot spell in October, a breezy, warm Christmas or snowflakes falling in April. But having said that, let’s just hope old man winter is done with us in 2010!

What a welcome relief, the warm sunny days of the last two weeks. The woods and water around Fletcher’s Cove are finally coming out of the deep freeze. A week long pulse of high river-flow has already passed us by, taking with it the melted snows of the upper watershed. Anglers can now look forward to gentler currents and the imminent appearance of perch, herring, shad and striped bass.

Fletcher’s is scheduled to open for fishing boat rentals on Saturday, the 27th. As always, this hope is subject to river levels and weather -- unlike other sports, nature blows the whistle in the game of angling. Our fleet of freshly restored, tile-red rowboats is ready to be slipped into the water on a suitable high tide. It was quite fortuitous that the boats were still racked up during last week’s flooding, as much damage is done to our wooden skiffs during in-season floods.

D.C. fishing permits plus basic supplies and bait will be available when the tackle shack is open. Seasonal bike rentals will also begin. Canoe and kayak rentals must wait for two things: warmer water temps on the Potomac and a “filled-up” C&O Canal.

Pay us a visit in the bloom of Spring, to fish, or just take in the beauty. The cry of nesting hawks will herald your arrival. Old man river has left lots of interesting flotsam for your inspection. Turn off your cell or Blackberry… and we’ll IM you a smile!

Dan