Rainbows from Dolina Będkowska

 Dolina Będkowska is family-oriented commercial fishery near Kraków.  It was recently stocked with big rainbow trout, 60-70 cm, before spinning competitions.

According to recent reports, there was excellent spin fishing for trout few days ago.  But, something changed. I started with spinning gear, trying various crankbaits and silicone worms. No response from fish. I saw many trout slowly swimming along the bank. They refused most of the lures offered.

I noticed that there's a lot of fish cruising along the banks, just under the surface. Maybe they are feeding on insects?  It's time to change tactics.

I rigged Vision Sisu 6wt fly rod with 2 flies. Big dry fly on top, which serves as strike indicator. Under dry fly I attached 50 cm leader with small nymph on 18 size hook. 

I started throwing my flies where I could see the fish moving under the surface. A few careful pulls, a pause. Fish on!   After short fight, I brought it into the net.

The tactics proved to be successful.  I caught 3 trout on my fly rod.  The last one was pretty big , and gave me spectacular fight.

What a fish! 60 cm rainbow!  People nearby helped me with "hero shot". 

Meanwhile, the weather changed. Very strong wind made fishing uncomfortable.  The next hour I spent without strikes.

The family nearby were fishing with feeder rods and natural bait (corn). They caught biggest trout i've seen in this lake. It's measured 70 cm. I can imagine to fight such monster on a fly rod.

There was no more strikes in next hour. I decided to go home. But, it was the first fishing trip in this year when I caught something.  So i'm not a "trout virgin" anymore in this year.