Newsletter

Sunday I had a canoe trip under perfectly clear fall skies. With the foliage changing a little more every day and a pleasant breeze the entire trip was picture perfect. The river is very low due to the dry weather and the beavers have completed the dam right below the Union fair grounds. I was able to slide the canoes over the dam easily and we were able to paddle up to the lodge and beyond. I did notice a few groups of trout in the sandy bottom behind the harness track. Only after I was home did it occur to me that they must be getting ready to spawn.

I had forgotten what a great experience the fall run of fish can be. The last two mornings in the drizzle with the leaves definitely starting to turn in the background and we had a steady stream of fish in most of the expected places. The best part about these fish is not only are they actively feeding but they are bigger and certainly stronger than they were a few months ago. I am guessing that the rain has started the young alewives seriously heading out to sea and the stripers are lined up to take full advantage of that feeding opportunity.

When I pulled out of the driveway last week I was surprised to see one of the red maples across the street has started to change color. Then I had to go to Augusta and drove past the marsh near Traveler Pond in Coopers Mills where all of the maples are already bright red. As I look out across the hills today the trees have definitely begun to change their colors. It is for the most part subtle but there for sure if you look carefully. Autumn is here for sure and fall is not far off.