It was one of those clear, cold, December mornings in Washington, D.C. Jin and I had a free afternoon on New Year's Eve and wasting the last remaining hours of 2007 sitting at home did not make sense to us, especially since there were catchable trout nearby. So, after a short email exchange, we decided to spend a few hours fly fishing the stocked Rainbow trout on lower Holmes Run near Chambliss Street and the neighborhood recreation center.
We threw everything in the fly box at them but got no hits for our effort. The trout were there, we could see them finning around in the deep pools, but they were not very interested in biting.
We think it might have something to do with Holmes Run’s water source, Lake Barcroft Dam, turning down the water flow. The stream was running way slower and a lot lower than a week ago. Trout hate change. It usually takes a few days for them to settle in and acclimate to their new environment.
Hopefully we’ll have better luck chasing trout in 2008!
EQUIPMENT: We used 3 and 4-weight rods with floating lines and standard leaders. We threw everything but they weren't interested.
DIRECTIONS: Holmes Run Stream Valley Park is located on Columbia Pike (244) amid apartments, residential housing and strip malls. As you drive on 244 towards Leesburg Pike (Rt. 7) the road will slope downhill. To your right you will see a large apartment complex and on your left will be the face of the Lake Barcroft Dam. You will drive cross a bridge with a covered pedestrian walkway. At this point SLOW DOWN and get into the RIGHT LANE. The road will begin to go uphill. To your right is a small, paved road that looks like a bike path. THIS IS THE ENTRANCE. It's a sudden right turn so make sure the car on your tail knows you're turning. Park and follow the paved path to Holmes Run Stream Valley Park.