The stream was crowded. Walking from my car to the water, I had to tell myself that I can’t control the fish and I can’t control the fishermen. I can only control  my cast, my fly selection, and my attitude. It didn’t help that I had a pounding headache and an increasingly damp shirt from perspiration. It wasn’t too hot, but it was exceptionally muggy.

A few fish were rising. I was able to fool them with some midges. Then, it looked like there were rises all around me. Then, up and down the river. But it wasn’t fish. It was a drizzle that quickly turned to rain. Fellow anglers held on for a little bit. Then, everyone I could see in either direction was gone.

I zipped up my rain jacket and kept on fishing. The change in barometric pressure alleviated my headache. The drastic reduction in angling pressure didn’t hurt, either.

I had driven quite a ways to fish this river. The folks on the water with me that day may very well live in town, and getting wet for a river down the street just might not be worth it. I was committed. And it paid off. Here are a few things that were apparent:

Rain gear makes a world of difference.

A quality rain jacket is a blessing. Persistent misting can be miserable after an hour. A sudden downpour can ruin a day. Having a shell with a well-designed hood, breathable fabric, and cinchable cuffs will keep you on the water. Buying a jacket that you can roll up and throw in your pack or vest (and always keep in your car) is a worthwhile investment. Remember: always wear it over your waders when it is raining.

Rising fish will resume their rising.

This isn’t always true. But more often than not, fish chasing midges and emergers will get right back to sipping on the surface once things calm down. Plus, there seems to be a flurry of terrestrial activity following precipitation. Ants, hoppers, and beetles get knocked from streamside vegetation and kick or struggle in very enticing ways in the minutes after rain lets up.

A little patience goes a long way.

Find a nice tree. Wait things out. Like I experienced, the crowded water thinned out significantly after a little shower. There were plenty of fish for me to chase regardless, but on a different stream the rapidly emptying parking lot would have been a welcome sight. Even if you sit in your car, take a glance at the radar and see if a few minutes (or even an hour) will change things.

Lightening isn’t worth it.

As always, no solitude is worth death. Don’t chance it. Take shelter, wait an appropriate time, and then get back on the water.