Winter Fly Fishing Basics

While Winter makes some stare at the river and wait for spring, with the right gear and knowledge Winter can be one of the most rewarding time to be on water. Wet and Cold is a bad way to spend a day on the water and investing in the right gear can make all the difference. See some essential gear recommendations to assist in your Winter fly fishing excursions

• Investing in a solid pair of Waders & Wading Boots

  • (I personally prefer Stocking Foot vs Boot foot Waders)

• Thermals and additional layers for tops and bottoms

• Latex Gloves offer a great solution to keeping hands dry

• Waterproofing External Shell

  Warm Hat/ Hoodie Combination

• stand outside of the water while casting if able

With colder temperatures, trout’s metabolisms slows down and can effect their typical feeding routines. Trout often dive to slower deeper water during the winter months. This different location in the water column requires different fishing techniques. See some recommended rigging setups below.

• Streamers with a weighted sink tip poly leader.

  • Olive, White and Black Rabbit Fur

  • Dear Head Streamers

  Double weight nymph rig with extra length on the tippet.

  • Midges

  • Scuds

• General Euro Nymphing Setups

  • Eggs

Michael Kent