This fly fishing podcast will cover the predictions for the stocked trout streams, native brook trout streams and smallmouth rivers this month. Back in 1996 we were dealing with a blizzard and as I’m posting this, I am enjoying 60 degree weather.
The stocked trout streams are low and clear. We just have not had the rains or snows this winter to help them. Having said that, wade carefully and hide your approach. We want to fish nymphs and small streamers slowly along the stream bottom. Perdigons size 14 and Shenandoah Streamer (in midnight or silver) size 10 work well.
For the native brook trout, fish the deep pools. We need to drift our flies slowly as we are mimicking the naturals. A Murray’s Caddis Larva size 16 on a Fluorocarbon Leader works well. Keep in mind the water temperatures are cold and the action will be slow.
I have some anglers that will try their hand at landing a smallmouth all through the winter. If inclined, then plan to fish in long, slow deep pools where the bass hang out during the winter. We need to provide a big mouthful and basically put the fly right in front of them. Deep and slow, deep and slow. Big flies like a Murray’s Magnum Hog Sucker size 4, CJ Sluggo, and Murray’s Magnum Darter size 4 on a Fluorocarbon Leader are recommended.
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