Ok. Couple of things to report about the Sandy. First, I launched my driftboat (with electric trolling motor) at Dabney Park. The road along the river back up to Stark bridge is closed due to major rockslide just downstream of the bridge.
Second, it was free fishing day, so admission to the park was free. But unfortunately, thieves broke out back window in my Jeep Liberty, and took my companions' wallet left on the back seat, so not free. These guys knew what they were doing... they set off alarm, but opened the doors, popped the hood and disconnected the battery. After getting the wallet, they somehow hacked the PIN for the ATM debit card, and went on a shopping spree three hours later after first testing PIN. We were the only boat trailer in the parking area when I launched, and only a second trailer there when I got back in the afternoon.
Third, during the float, spooked a lot of summer steelhead in front of the boat in some of the riffles with shallow water, one in particular. The fish were in really shallow water, less than three feet, with most of the river less than two feet. On one riffle, over twenty fish went left/right around boat in only 30-40 yards. I pulled the boat over, and walked back up and waded the river to drift fish with corkies/yarn all different colors, and use spinners and spoons... no luck. They may have been feeding on something in particular. Next time, I take my fly rod.
We didn't see any sign of springers in the lower river during this float. Water level is very low and clear. Less algae/weed than three weeks ago.
2 and 3rd in the same day. Done by 530 am , great way to start the morning!
