Mitchell River - Surry, NC Fishing Report on 13th May, 2024

Conditions: With the warming weather and the onset of summer, angling pressure on the Mitchell River is on the rise. Expect competition for popular fishing spots, but don't overlook the "in-between" water sections, which can offer great opportunities due to lower angling pressure.

Recommended Approach: Streamer fishing is the name of the game right now. Targeting those less-fished spots with streamers like the "BC Mahonys Mini Meat" can be highly effective. These smaller streamers are great for searching and can help determine the presence and location of fish in a run.

Technique: Start by casting downstream and across the current, then strip the streamer back upstream. This presentation mimics natural prey and increases your chances of hooking into fish. Watch for any movement or flashes as fish inspect the fly, and be prepared for strikes on a tight line.

Tactics: Once the fish become less responsive to streamers, switch to dead drifting bugs and other patterns to target the more cautious or selective fish. This one-two punch approach can maximize your chances of success throughout the day.

Gear Recommendations: A Full Flex 3wt rod remains the standard recommendation, even for small streamers. Use 4x tippet for streamers, but for bugs and more delicate presentations, opt for 5-6x tippet for better success rates.

Gear Shop: For those interested in trying out the recommended streamer, "BC Mahonys Mini Meat," it's available for purchase in the shop tab on my website.

Conclusion: Despite increasing angling pressure, opportunities abound on the Mitchell River, especially in less-fished areas. Streamer fishing combined with dead drifting offers a versatile and effective approach to catching fish. Remember to adapt your tactics based on fish behavior and be prepared to switch up your presentation throughout the day.