Rig Your Fly Fishing Rod for Winter Fishing

Murray's Fly Shop Fly Fishing Tips- Clean your fly rod and dress with fly line dressing to reduce water buildup and subsequent ice buildup in winter
In order to prevent ice forming badly in the rod guides in the winter Harry keeps the rod clean and dresses it with a thin coat of SA Line Dressing then rubs it down

Fly Fishing in the winter can be very exciting but when the line freezes in the guides it becomes difficult. The cause of the line freezing in the guides results from tiny dirt and algae particles collecting in the guides and on the rod under the guides. Eventually this water freezes in the guides and we’re in trouble.

The way I reduce this problem is to wash my rod often with dish detergent and scrub the guides and the rod under the guides with a tooth brush. I rinse this thoroughly with water and set the rod aside to dry for several days. Next I apply several drops of Scientific Anglers Fly Line Dressing to a paper towel and rub down the rod and guides thoroughly, paying special attention to the section of the rod where the guides are attached. Next I use a dry paper towel and rub down thoroughly.

This is the most important step but washing and dressing your fly line often also helps.

For more information on winterizing your tackle listen to my podcast Winterizing Your Fly Fishing Equipment
UPDATE: Check out our Fly Fishing Tip Video on Caring for your Fly Fishing Rod.