Having a plan is an important of fishing success. However, being flexible is just as (if not more) important. This was the case on a recent fly-fishing trip in Tennessee. Our plan was to target Small Mouth Bass in the Holston River. Unfortunately, heavy rains before my arrival made the Holston River unfishable. My guide recommended Plan B, Rainbow Trout on the Clinch River. Rainbows were not what I came to Tennessee to catch. But, when travelling to fish, I always listen to my guide. So, Plan B sounded good to me!
It took about an hour to get to the Clinch River. We put in just below the dam. The water was clear and cold. Perfect conditions for Rainbow Trout. Plan B was beginning to look pretty good. Over the next few hours, we caught and released several Rainbow Trout. While I went to Tennessee to target Small Mouth Bass, being flexible when conditions changed made for a great day with Rainbow Trout.
Here in the Lowcountry, we are blessed with an abundance of fish species. If Trout are not biting, Redfish are an excellent Plan B. Spanish Mackerel, Jacks or Sheepshead are all good Plan C, D and E options. Flounder, Black Drum, Bluefish, Ladyfish, Sharks and even Tarpon are available in August. So, if Plan A is not working. Be flexible, try Plan B. Chances are, before you progress to far into the alphabet, you will catch fish!