Last Thursday, renowned local flytyer Sam Scafidi and I took a run down to check on the water at the West Branch of the Delaware, East Branch of the Delaware, the Willowemoc and the Beaverkill. Waters were very low and running crystal clear. The temperature was near 70 at mid day. This was unheard of for this time of year. The lack of snow and subsequent runoff has dropped the water to summertime levels. Not good for the trout.

Sam ties thousands of flies, and our secondary mission that day was to make deliveries to Marino's Sport Shop in Deposit, Fur Fin and Feather in Livingston Manor, and Al's Sport Shop in Downsville. So from the diminutive and obscure #37 Dobson to a Muddler tied on a very large #2/0 hook, Sam plied his trade and I enjoyed perusing the guns, tackle, and gear these shops had to offer. Those of you who want any custom tied flies should contact Sam, right here in Norwich, at (607) 334-3197. Sam is also the President of the Chenango Valley Trout Unlimited Chapter. The chapter is holding a flyfishing class on April 14-15 at the Sherburne Middle School. I attended last year to brush up on some things, and can vouch for its superb content and educational value for novice and seasoned angler alike. Contact Tony Savitsky for more info at (607) 336-5945 on the course.

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