Lake run browns

It is the fall when anglers prefer to visit New York State for the annual migration of brown trout from Lake Ontario. The access points along the popular rivers and creeks reflect license plates from multiple states. However, this is far from my favorite time to fish for Great Lakes migratory brown trout. The water is too crowded, and the fish are at times more concerned with spawning than eating. 
  
It is after the spawn has concluded in late November/early December that the fishing gets considerably more interesting. Now the fish look to recover after the spawning process, becoming opportunistic feeders. As long as flows remain conducive, the lake-runs will remain all winter and through the following spring until the water becomes too warm. 
 
For me the best part is that the post spawn lake-runs readily take a properly presented swung fly. Lake Ontario migratory browns typically average 4 to 8 pounds but fish lunch larger than this are caught each year. Fish of this size match well with light two rods or one hand Spey setups. Short Skagit heads provide a versatile delivery system that are easy to cast even when backed up to the bank or brush. I use 7 to 10 foot sinking leaders with a 5 or 6 inch per second sink rate. The tippet from the sinking leader to the fly is about 3 feet in length of 10 to 12 pound test. 

In the winter months I work to slow the swing of the fly by pointing the rod tip toward the opposite bank and reducing downstream belly. When the water temperatures begin to rise a faster swing can be productive. And I am always patient on the hang down. 

Productive lake-run brown trout flies have good movement in the water. The Bunny Spey and Cattitude are both good choices. White, white/grey, olive/yellow or olive/tan are all good color combinations.