How does colder weather change the tactics we use on the water? Here are a few thoughts on winter fly fishing tactics to increase your chances of catching fish in the colder months.
Fly Selection
The majority of a trout’s eating habits occur under the water (not on top), and this is especially true in the winter months. A great fly selection is a nymph pattern and other subsurface flies in smaller sizes (18-22 hook size). But we also like to fish girdle bug patterns to mimic stoneflies on a larger hook size (size 10-12). This heavier fly will help to bring your line down deep in the water column and in line with fish waiting for a meal to float by. Plus, with a life-cycle lasting several years, stoneflies in this stage can always be found in the water throughout the year, making this pattern a great, versatile choice.
Your goal is to sink the fly to the fish as quickly as possible and at the right depth where your fish is lying in wait. Consider both the weight of the fly and water resistance the pattern creates on sink rate. Smaller, thinner nymph patterns tend to create less drag on their way down into the water, but weight from a heavier fly can also mean a faster sink rate, too. This weight can be found in selecting a fly that is weighted with a tungsten beadhead or one that has added wire around the body.
The Setup
Now that we know to use subsurface flies, make sure your flies are actually getting down to the fish with the right setup.
If our goal is a fast sink rate, an effective method for sinking your flies quickly and deeply (in addition to choosing the right fly) is opting for a thinner tippet. We like a 6x fluorocarbon because the thinner diameter and denser material means a fast sink rate (think “thin to win”). Of course, while a thinner line will sink faster, it also means a trade-off in line strength, and this is the balance you’ll have to strike between sink rate and tippet strength when setting up your line.
Winter fishing is also an excellent opportunity to utilize a double nymph setup, or try out a Euro nymph technique. With nymphing, a heavier point fly will make sure you’re reaching maximum depth. Split shot can also be a helpful addition to weigh down your rig.
Of course, there are no hard and fast rules in fly fishing. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works.
Where and When
With colder water temperatures, trout will often lay low in deeper, slower runs and pools where the water is warmer. Seek out these deeper sections of water, and make sure your fly selection is heavy enough to get to the bottom.
As eager as we are to get as much stream time out of our day as possible, the more practical reality is that warmer temperatures and time of day are going to impact the fish activity. A later start when the sun has had a chance to warm up the water will lend to a more productive fishing trip.
Don’t forget to stock up at Carolina Mountain Sports in downtown Statesville, NC. Shop owner Richard Griggs has a great selection of fly fishing gear, fly tying materials, and other outdoor necessities. Join his email list to get the latest sales and updates from the store.
Carolina Mountain Sports | 123 W Broad St, Statesville, NC 28677 | 704-871-1444
Call before you go, hours can change.