The elevator to better fishing has been stuck between floors since my report on March 16th. Fishing fits and starts is how I would describe the last two weeks. Just as the water temperature would move up to the prime range for angling success, then a spell of cold nights would reverse the progress. The blessing of Spring does not come smoothly to Washington. While the cool has been helpful in preserving the cherry blossoms, daffodils and such, our finned friends would like a little warmth to stir their blood, and thusly the blood of all fishers.

Yes, fish have been caught, boats are ready to rent, tackle is in good supply and if you have not yet tested the waters, then rejoice… you have not missed much. Be ready to jump-to-it however, as a few really warm days or even a warm rain will kick-start fishing into high gear in short order. I tell folks on the phone, “yesterday’s angling news is ancient history, and predictions for tomorrow are wishful thinking.” True fishing is only in the here-and-now. You have to be willing to take the chance.

Those of you who saw Angus Phillips’ Washington Post article a couple of days ago might be hot under the collar to experience a similar result. A big rockfish makes many fishermen foam at the mouth. However, other than by sheer luck, moments like that only happen after many bricks have been mortared into a foundation for success. Truly big striped bass are the Paris Hilton of fish. Beautiful, glamorous, sleek and newsworthy. But you’re not likely to get a date with one. It’s like the power-ball. You buy into the dream. Could it happen? Yes. The real fun is the moment of anticipation.

Now, the best I have to offer is to say that by the end of this week, white perch, hickory shad, catfish, and some rockfish should be there for the taking, provided YOU ACTUALLY FISH! We have what you need… D.C. permits and all that other stuff. Read the April fishing reports from the last three years on the “previous fishing reports” tab. The natural things generally happen in a similar way from year to year. Humanity is the real variable.

Photo-right: caught late Fall, 2007, Michael Caldwel

Dan