Esopus Creek: Where Majestic Waters Beckon
Welcome to the second installment of our journey through the Charmed Circle’s legendary waters. In this blog post, we invite you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Esopus creek. Known for its energetic waters and deep pools, the Esopus presents an angler’s paradise with endless possibilities. Join us as we discover the techniques, fly patterns, and captivating stories that make the Esopus a cherished destination for fly fishing enthusiasts.
The Esopus River, or as some call it, Esopus Creek, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the legendary Catskills. As we delve into the captivating tale of this remarkable waterway, we unveil its unique characteristics, diverse sections, and thriving trout population, making it a mecca for fly fishing enthusiasts.
The Esopus River boasts a fascinating water source, serving as drinking water for the bustling New York metro area. A tunnel carrying water from the Schoharie Reservoir to the portal at Shandaken provides a cool, pristine habitat perfect for rainbow trout. As the water flows down to the Ashokan Reservoir, it shapes the Esopus into an angler’s dream—a river of breathtaking beauty and energy.
The Esopus River showcases its versatility with two distinct sections. Above the point where the portal enters the river lies the natural flow of the Esopus. From Winnisooks Lake, the river gracefully flows down county road #47 past Big Indian, where ample public access awaits anglers eager to explore its wonders. This section reveals wild rainbows, browns, and native brook trout, offering a serene and intimate fly fishing experience.
Below the portal, the Esopus River metamorphoses into what some call a tailwater, despite its unique water source. The river widens, boasting deep pools, runs, and riffles—resembling a freestone stream with a captivating structural sense. While the water discharges can present challenges, the diverse waterways in this section promise thrilling fly fishing adventures.
To master the Esopus River’s varied sections, our comprehensive fly fishing guide equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for success. Whether you embark on the upper part’s pocket water challenges or explore the wide, dynamic reaches below the portal, our expert insights and fly suggestions will elevate your angling experience.
As we explore the secrets of the Esopus, our focus turns to its prolific aquatic insect hatches—a vital aspect of successful fly fishing. Stoneflies reign supreme when nymph fishing, while mayfly nymphs and caddisfly larvae also prove effective. The stream is home to winter stoneflies, little brown stoneflies, little yellow stoneflies, and golden stoneflies, each contributing to the allure of the Esopus.
Keep an eye out for blue-winged olives, both the little species and larger Eastern blue-winged olives, hatching early and late in the season. Quill Gordons, blue quills, gray-winged yellow quills, Hendricksons, and American March Browns paint the waters with their presence at different times of the year, adding excitement to your angling journey.
The Esopus River, with its unmatched water source and vibrant trout, stands as a testament to the bountiful offerings of the Charmed Circle. As we traverse these legendary waters, let us embrace the enchanting tales and camaraderie that bind us as passionate fly fishing enthusiasts.
Tight lines and unforgettable moments await you on the Esopus—another unforgettable chapter in the journey through the waters that make up the Charmed Circle. Until our next adventure, may your fly lines stay taut.