Fletchers Cove Fishing Report, August 27, 2006

As much of the nation scans the tropics with year-old memories of weather related drama and trauma, Fletcher’s bakes under the sun of an unrelenting dry, hot summer. Is that childhood remembrance of almost nightly thunderstorms while listening to a Senators game just a figment of my imagination, or is the weather pattern truly altered in its seasonal routine?

Whatever the weather, truth, or season, Fletcher’s Cove has a little something to offer the visitor. The river has been calm and clear for the boaters and fishermen. The C&O Canal a shady and serene escape for those seeking relaxation. I’ve been encouraging the guests to the park to watch for the little things that often escape notice. The hot mud of our silted-in cove is a surprise to most. Look closely at the patterns on its glistening surface and you might find a freshwater clam scooting along looking for deeper water and the protection it affords. The bubbles of methane gas from decaying organic matter fascinate people, especially children, who think up all kinds of imaginatively wild explanations for what is going on. It’s simpler than what they want to believe, but fun to entertain the theories. The tides on the Potomac seem to perplex people more than an old river-rat can understand. It’s as though most folks think only of ocean when the concept of tide enters their mind. Indeed, our tides are a metaphor for the ebb and flow of life itself and I love to see the look of primal acceptance when shoreline visitors think… Oh! Yes. The tiiiide.

The birds. Oh, the birds. It is another blue ribbon year for bird watching at Fletcher’s Cove. This week past, I had the delight of seeing a humming bird fly into the tackle and rental shack itself. It hovered under one of the florescent lights for an extended moment, then flitted away towards one of the bright flowers outside. Of late, a nimble Osprey has been working the cove and stretch of river just out from the dock. Successive dives are made on unsuspecting fish, with a crashing of talons and feathers into the river’s surface. Sprays of water up to six feet result from some of those spectacular dives. Our familiar friends the herons, ducks and geese will greet and escort patrons on an elective basis. A little bribery of bread might help.

Fall fishing will improve as the water temperature drops through the ideal range from 75 to 55 degrees. The summer fishing seminars for children have produced some budding star anglers. Bring your children down to Fletcher’s for a little worm-bobbing. We have the goods for your good intentions.

As Summer passes and early Fall arrives, the dried grasses and flower blossoms will transform the landscape into a palette of seasonal memories. A rental is here if you like, or a cool drink, ice cream or just a smile on a slow day. If you need a pointer to a nearby miniature miracle, just ask.

Fletcher’s Cove will be open until at least the first of November, seven days a week (weather permitting).

We hope to see you soon.

Dan