South Branch Trouting

[Billfish715]

If you plan to fish on the South Branch this weekend, you might have to do some walking. I drove along the river from High Bridge to the iron bridge a couple of miles upstream from Califon. The roads were in great shape, but the parking was NOT! The plows had the snow pushed to the side of the roads but the access, pull-off spots were not plowed or open.

I'm sure you can pull off on the side of the road, but I'd be careful when doing so. The normally narrow road along the river will be down to one lane when you pull to the side. I'm not sure how the local police will feel about the congestion. Anyhow, just be prepared. The river was in great shape by the way.

One ambitious fly fisherman who drove a pickup with a plow on the front made a spot for himself at one of the pull-offs so he could get in and fish. I didn't stay to see if he caught anything but he was giving it a try. You might have to search a bit for a parking spot if you want to get to your favorite hole.

I'm not sure how the parking is along the river south of Rt. 78 so, just don't be surprised when you get to where you are going and find that it's snow packed.

[thmyorke1]

yea great warning, im afraid to drive out and find what spots arent plowed, assuming most pull-offs arent, maybe even some small town-park parking lots.

Ill end up fishing spots where I know there's a plowed parking lot for like a strip-mall / fast food place / etc.

[Billfish715]

With conditions like they are.......... deep snow on the sides of the road, snow covered steep banks.......not only will the parking be compromised, but walking too far through the woods or fields covered in knee-high snow while wearing waders will bring even strong men down. Fishing that is "never too far from the car" should be the motto to follow. Access will not be easy.