I wanted to check out a new stream yesterday but with limited time it just wasn't possible.
This morning, I woke up and it was too nice to sit at home...so off I went again with the fly rod.
This new stream was very challenging. Tight cover combined with shallow, swift clear waters made it difficult to cast and present the fly.
I didn't find the brown trout, but I did find an unexpected Atlantic Salmon smolt, and a few eager Creek Chubs.
While fishing one of the deep runs, I looked back and noticed something wonderful...
FIDDLEHEADS!!!
These are the young fronds of Ostrich Ferns and they can be harvested in the spring. I have a couple of friends who often harvest them, but I have yet to try some. They were all over the place once I started paying attention.
Trying to be sensible in harvesting, I only harvest one shoot from each plant. In a matter of 30 minutes, I gathered about a 2L bag worth of good eats.
They needed to be well cooked since raw or undercooked fiddleheads can cause food poisoning. After boiling in salted water for 10 minutes, I sauteed them in garlic and butter...MMM!!!
Now that I know where to find them, I may go out for another feed next weekend...any for sure next spring again!
As for the fishing...well, it was interesting exploring a new stream...but now my fly box need some replenishing since the trees were very hungry for flies. :?
