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I agree Cameron. They're beautiful rods.

Jeffsod, When I took that last photo I wondered to myself how long it'll take for someone to recognize that it is indeed poison ivy!
That was the only place where it was sparse enough so I could set my rod down.
As soon as we arrived at the river, the first words out of my friend's mouth were - "Is that poison ivy?" I have walked through that so many times over the years and never been bothered by it. Just plain dumb luck I guess.
Actually, the woods my friends and I hung around in growing up was loaded with it and every summer they would always catch it at least once but I never did.
I understand some people are less susceptible to it and don't develop an allergic reaction but I certainly don't want to test that theory.

It can be a tough river to fish. More often than not you are fishing with tiny midge patterns and even a 6x tippet looks like a piece of cord!
With part of the river being catch and release and the water being so clear the fish become educated quickly. It's always great to be on the water and be able to see the fish but it can drive you crazy.

Hi Mcanders, Welcome to the board!
That is exactly what you do. The rhythm of the water and the fish is incredibly relaxing. It's also a great way to learn about their tendencies.

How true Middlemac!

Hey Mark - Yes, the water is gorgeous. Also, when it's that clear it's much deeper than you think!

Hi Tom,

I think so. There were a number of folks fishing that day on the lower stretch who were only fishing for dinner. Once July 1 rolls around I think the numbers decrease. Every now and then you will see an occasional fisherman with a spinning reel and a few more fly rods because other rivers have warmed up too much but I've never been at a loss to find open water. I've always been more partial to that lower stretch with the seasonal regulations (Jan 1 - June 30 open, July 1 - Dec. 31 catch and release/only artificial lures) as the water is much more varied. I've fished it all the way down to the confluence with the Ware River. I'm impatient as the day is long, I can't stay and fish one pool for two hours. I find myself getting sloppy and not being able to focus like I need to to be successful. I like to move, give the fish a rest, find a pool or stretch I wasn't aware of ... Besides, if there are other fisherman there I'll rotate out so they can have their fun. You know the story, the more you explore, the more fish you'll find. It's always fun to be surprised. Th "Y" pool above Rte. 9 (Fly fishing only year round) is nice if you hit it right and you're one of only a few people there. But for sure, once the temps go up, the Swift becomes quite popular.

Steve

gypsy wrote:

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As beautiful as it is the Swift River might be a decent place for a fiberglass flyrodders get together. As a bonus the Greenfield river and T&T shop are within easy driving distance.

Be a trip down memory lane for me. My Grandparents lived all their lives in Easthampton MA, and I spent many summer days fishing for Bass with my Grandfather on Quabbin reservoir.

Well it is a unique piece of water, primarily because of it's clarity and ability to provide water temps that support year round fishing. The river never gets large but it would still make for an interesting first time trip for some members.