Across Vermont, our rivers are showing the effects of drought, and the Battenkill is no exception. At Trico Unlimited, we are deeply concerned about the impact of these low water conditions on our fish, the invertebrates that sustain them, and the overall health of the river. As anglers and stewards of the resource, we must be mindful of when and how we fish.
But low water doesn’t mean you have to hang up your rod. Fly fishing has always been about much more than catching fish. It’s an endless journey of learning—a craft that challenges us to refine our skills, deepen our understanding, and connect more fully with the water around us. In fact, these tough conditions can create the perfect opportunity to focus on the fundamentals and grow as anglers while the cool nights allow water temperatures remain well below 68 degrees.
Some of the most rewarding lessons you can take away from a day on the water right now include:
• The art of the dry fly presentation: Achieving the perfect drift is one of fly fishing’s greatest challenges—and greatest rewards.
• Mending mastery: Learning when and how to use aerial mends versus water mends to maintain a natural drift.
• Casting accuracy: Sharpening the ability to place your fly exactly where you intend, even at tricky distances.
• Reading water in low flows: Understanding how fish respond when water levels drop, and where they are most likely to hold.
• Fishing thoughtfully in drought conditions: Developing strategies that minimize stress on the fish while still allowing for meaningful time on the river.
Each of these skills builds confidence and makes you a more effective angler when conditions improve. Just as importantly, they remind us that fly fishing is not defined by the number of fish we catch, but by the lifelong pursuit of knowledge, practice, and time well spent outdoors.
So while the river runs low, the opportunities for learning remain high. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned angler, there has never been a better time to practice, refine, and grow your craft. We invite you to join us on the Battenkill—not just to fish, but to learn, explore, and continue the never-ending journey of fly fishing.
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