Stalking Fish

Max Kalbrener Stalking Fish on the
Karluk River on Kodiak Island in Alaska

This method of stalking fish is a subtle and effective way to catch fish, but requires stealth and demands patience and persistence. You must wear clothing that’s consistent with the surrounding environment, usually greens, blues and grays. Polaroid glasses are also effective. To prevent the possibility of spooking fish, the use non-glare products and equipment is advised. You should avoid making noise and shadows as you approach the water. Also, since they have a blind spot behind them, you should move upstream to spot fish.

When stalking, you might not see the entire fish because they blend into their environment so well. Therefore, you have to look for some telltale signs such as the white of a mouth, a silver flash, a red stripe, a subtle movement or a gray rock that wasn’t there before. Also, if you gaze intently into the water’s surface mirrors you might be able to spot fish.

Your approach toward the water is critical. Some anglers contend that to prevent spooking fish you must crawl and keep a low profile. This is a debatable subject, but there’s another method that is easier and just as effective. It’s a slow, quiet upright advance to the water.

Before you begin your advance, have your outfit rigged and ready to cast. Then approach the water using a methodic, slow pace. Stop when you are about 8 to 10 feet from the water and begin to look for fish. If you spot one, wait for a few minutes and then cast 3 to 5 feet above its holding position. Often a fish will take the fly if your first presentation is good. If not, continue to cast until it takes the fly or moves. But remember, sometimes that big fish can turn into a ten pound rock.