Skagit River's condition both now and long term
I went to the Skagit on the second week of July. It was flowing fast, as expected. Crossed a few times with difficulty. Didn't even try at Strawberry Flats. But that will all be corrected with time as the level of flow declines. My concern is the difference in fishing between now and a few years ago. I and my buddies I fish with have noticed what seems to be less caught fish as well as smaller in size. I remember 30+ fish days and fish in the range of 18 inches for rainbow trout (even 20). There just does not seem to be the size of fish or the amount. I did catch 6, but expected more--despite the fast water. I saw a guy doing well with nymphs, but how well I don't really know--didn't talk to him. I am just wondering if others are seeing a decline in the number of fish caught as compared to other years. I don't know that I am doing anything different. I am willing to learn. But it would be nice to know the problem is just with me and not the river. Is Ross Lake being overfished? Is there a problem in spawning? The water still seems good and the flow is good. All my observations are anecdotal--I don't have any proof. So how about others opinions. Not just that you are catching alot of fish, but how you experience in the past, say, three years, compares with that of 3+ years.
Regards,
Skagitriver