Mission Accomplished

[westernmas]

I had set a goal to land a pike on the fly this open water season. Saturday morning I gave it my first try. I got to the the launch at around 7, with quite cold temps for this time of year, about 50 degrees. I paddled up to some coves that I’ve done well in with spinning gear but they were much more shallow than I expected. I could see HUGE carp tailing and even rising at bugs so I foolishly tried for a few of those with no luck. I decided to move to deeper water, which allowed me to fish a better variety of flies. I came up on a downed log and fished the outer edges at first with no luck. I was about to move on but threw a fly almost on shore near the log and I saw something move, then my line started moving and it was game on. After a few minute battle I ended up landing my first pike on the fly which taped out right around 30 inches. I hope this is signs of things to come as I was fully expecting to get a nice skunking. Def a fun fish to target on the fly. 

Also thanks to manny for the suggestion on the leader material. It worked perfectly and the knots held great.

[manitron]

Your welcome. I am glad that I could help. Nice work Pat.

[zwiggles]

Nice toothy critter! It’s always great to hit a goal you set out for, and especially on the first attempt

[Baitbucket]

Very nice! Bet that was a blast on the fly rod.

[westernmas]

Thanks guys.  It was quite exciting.  It took off toward some other potential snags but I was able to pull it out with the wire leader.  Luckily there were a couple of other kayakers who just happened to pass by when I got it in the net.  Thanks to those 2 for the pic!

[lowaccord66]

Nice work Pat.  I may have to get a heavier setup and stalk some of my champlain spots this fall.

[stripernut]

Nice!

[ActiveTrapChecker]

Nice fish, way to check it off the bucket list!

[westernmas]

Nice work Pat.  I may have to get a heavier setup and stalk some of my champlain spots this fall.

I was using an 8wt TFO with a Lamson Litespeed 3.5 micra reel with WF line, like 3 feet of 40lb floro and then 20lb wire.  Same setup works nice for steelhead so it will get some use.  Can also use it for schoolies.

[bogtrotter]

A pike under any conditions is an accomplishment.

A pike in open water is even more so.

A pike on a fly rod is downright incredible!

Congratulations!

[ICEHOLE]

Nice catch pat!

[SHaRPS]

 Nice work Pat. Check mate.