I have fly fished Merrill several years. I have noticed from fishing the north and south ends of the lake
that poaching has become a big problem. Not only from people visiting the lake but those who have cabins
on the lake who think because they have cabins on the lake they are above the law. I have even run into
people who are down right belligerent when you try to politely tell them about the fishing regs on the lake. I
thought motors recently were banned on this lake but I have observed ski jets and several motorized boats
who have operated their boats unsafely and rudely amongst tubers. Please correct me if I'm wrong about this
reg.

Despite all this Merrill has remained one of my favorite lakes. The scenery is impeccable and the
fishing though at times can be frustrating also can be very rewarding when you land one of those big
brownies. The addition of the hybrid rainbows has created some fast and furious battles too.

I have found that earlier in the season (sometimes believe it or not in February) when the fish are
coming out of their doldrums of water temperature and are less wary, they are eager for size 10 or 6 woolly
buggers in green or black. I have had days in March where I have landed four or more brownies 16 inches
or larger on a sinking line all the way down and usually a series of three to five,6 inch strips on the line. Most
of my luck has been on the north or south end of the lake. Sometimes going along the shoreline from the boat
ramp to the north end can have good results too.

Actually for me the most exciting hatch (if you can call it that) is the migration of the termites across
the lake sometimes as early as September and going through October. The Hex hatch can be fun but I've
found out that a yellow damsel like pattern works very well during the emergence rather than going with the
dry which at times can be very frustrating.

Keith Martin
Vancouver, Wa.

P.S. I encourage all fly fishers to catch and release. Want big fish let your fish go to grow and for others to
enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!! Use a camera for bragging rights!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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