Well, actually, fall fishing included the lower Snake River, but all in the Tri-Cities Area of Washington State. While everyday on the rivers here or anywhere are a joy, I think I have always liked Fall fishing the best. This is probably from growing up in a small town in the Finger Lakes Region in New York State that was inundated every summer by a zillion tourists and “lake people”, but when school started right after Labor Day the “locals” could enjoy the lake in relative peace. That hasn’t really happened this year or last due to the Covid effect. People looking for activities that are relatively Covid safe have looked to outdoor recreation leaving marina boat lots empty and launch ramp parking lots full. Same holds true for RVs.
This appreciation of Fall fishing was enhanced by the fact the fishing was noticeably better as the water cooled with the longer, cooler nights. The cooler temperatures also meant there was no need to get out of bed before the crack of dawn and the hot sun wasn’t chasing you off the water by lunchtime. This factor is especially enjoyable in Eastern WA where summer fishing starts at or before dawn and lunchtime temps are passing 90 degrees on the way to triple digits. When we get to October the waters are cooling to the lower 60s and high 50s, great for the fish and fishermen who like to sleep in a bit. It also reduces the number of jet skies buzzing about, at least, during the week when I am out there.
It seems to me there is generally a bit more frequent windy days as we get later in the fall, which makes boat positioning more difficult when casting for bass. This year I decided to use windy days to improve my walleye game, specifically trolling. It can be like watching paint dry but the occasional bite can result in a very tasty fish fry or tacos.
Beside the fishing improvement, the scenery changes. Of course, the trees are turning colors here, though nothing to compare with the Northeast hardwoods. Rather, I find that increased activity in the vineyards and orchards to get the year’s harvest in consistent with the natural world’s creatures preparing for the winter, including the fish. Even the sounds of duck hunters in the marshes enforces the awareness of fall. The fall migration of birds of prey here is subtle but noticeable.
Anyway, Fall is great season to be outdoors before the snows of winter hit and we tend to stay inside fly tying, fiddling with our gear, planning next years’ trips. Here’s to getting in a few more casts and maybe put a few more fillets in the freezer before dropping the boat off at the marina for annual service.
Landing In The PNW 
Hi Steve,
Stumbled across your blog this morning and really enjoy the content. Out of curiosity, did you teach fly casting classes back when you lived/worked in Rochester? If so, I’m fairly confident that you taught me to cast 25+ years ago. In any case, interesting seeing the perspective of another displaced western New York angler.
Looking forward to seeing you future posts.
Chris Williams
Wow, Chris! Yes I taught fly fishing and casting at the Rochester Museum & Science Center for a few years. It was fun to dive into fly fishing during the winter. I’m glad you can relate to my posts. I try to write more frequently, but something always seems to get in the way. Have plenty of time for it, being pretty much retired. Still working part-time for the company that brought us to Eastern WA, but will probably end that this summer.
I meant that reply to be longer, but hit the wrong key (talk about fat fingers). I have only checked out the home page of your blog and it looks like you are “displaced” in the South. As you probably saw in my posts we spent a few years in Florida. I never got into saltwater fishing, but sure chased a lot of bass in and around Orlando. I will be diving into your site. Keep in touch.
Steve
Thanks, Steve. Congratulations on your upcoming retirement. My father, John, who took me to your classes is quickly approaching that point as well.
I’ve been in Louisiana for 13 years at this point, so I’m slowly approaching the point where I may be better described as “naturalized” as opposed to “displaced.” I love the ability to fish all winter, but as often as not I’m relegated to the vise mid-summer as temperatures peak around 95-100. Lots of fishing opportunities though and some surprisingly active Fly Fishing clubs in the area.
If you have a chance, be sure to check out the “25 on the Fly” series of posts on my blog. The first three parts are from a May 2021 trip to the Finger Lakes and central NY. It was my first time fishing the area in over a decade.
Chris