The schoolies have arrived in the lower Connecticut River. Their numbers are such that you can hook and land enough to make the outing worth while. Most remain small - 12 to 16", but there is the occasional fish in the mid 20's.

Prior to the rain of the last few days, the river water was exceptionally clear, likely explained by the gradual snow melt in the mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire and the cold water temperatures. At one point I visually estimated the depth to be 2 to 4 feet. After sticking my rod in the water I was very surprised to learn it was 7 to 8 feet deep.

The number of fish will be on a steady increase over the next couple of weeks. A few days from now, after 2 or 3 clear warm days the water clarity will recover from the recent rains and the fishing will be in full swing.