Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Tuesday, July 14, 2020
Manville Raritan River
Duke's Park
Had to shop in Manville today, so I brought my tackle tote and a rod. Didn't have much time to fish, but I began at Duke's Park, municipal land owned by the Borough of Manville. Someone at work told me more than a week ago that he had tried here the day before. He showed me a photo of his three-pound smallmouth.
Some deep water--maybe four or five feet or a little more--exists in this stretch. I cast to shadows formed by trees, walking the bank. I did have a couple of small bass on and a sunfish.
I wanted to try near the bridge. I day or two after I had spoken to the guy at work, he enthusiastically told me that his friend had gone back and tried near the bridge, catching a four-pounder on an ultralight and four pound test.
I felt amazed at the extent of open land. It's all too easy to think the Manville-Bridgewater region is all built up. I never got to the river here. I tried, but wearing boat shoes and shorts, I didn't want to get muddy. I still had to go to Michaels to buy frames and mats, and besides, I don't want to ruin my casual shoes.
About 14 years ago, Matt and I fished by the bridge. It was easier to access the water. I never forget Matt, six or seven years old, walking into a deep hole while wading. He went over his head and the surprise wasn't pleasant for him. But I helped him out. No tears--nothing that bad. And we continued fishing.
Open land
Coming back around to my car by the bridge to Manville.