fly fishing tips · Fly Guide · winter flies · winter fly fishing · winter gear · Jan 20, 2021

5 Tips For Winter Fly Fishing

Winter can be the most rewarding season of the year for fly fishing, although it can also be the most technically challenging, demanding precision and skill. You not only need the right fly fishing gear and flies, but also the right cold weather gear. Remember: if you can catch fish now, you can catch them any time!

Location & Timing

Winter fly fishing offers fewer crowds, more fish, and you’ll probably have the river to yourself. You’ll see the most surface activity mid-afternoon on sunny days, or all day long on gray snowy days without wind.

Tailwater sections are typically the best as they are controlled by dams. Located below reservoirs, the water temperature is relatively consistent throughout the year and provides a steady supply of food. With the abundance of food year-round, tailwaters are usually home to large, trophy trout, and winter can be an ideal time to target these fish.

If you have a few warm days in a row and temperatures get above 30 degrees, it’s worth fishing a freestone river. Bugs will likely be hatching in the afternoon when the temperature is just right, and you’ll find yourself in a feeding frenzy. These are the days that can provide incredible fishing because those fish are eager to eat!

Techniques

Concentrate on locating fish bankside before entering the river or beginning to cast. Blind casting announces your presence and will inadvertently spook fish from a feeding lane. Wait and watch, read the trout’s reactions and how they are feeding to optimize your first few casts.

Midges are key during winter months. They are a year-round protein source, making them a go-to option. Popular colors include red, green, white, brown, and black. Ultraviolet fibers in flies add lifelike movement and attraction. For subsurface presentations, use light tippets and fine-tuned weights to keep flies in the feeding lane. Consider pairing a larger lead fly, like a size 12 beadhead, with a smaller size 22 midge larva.

For dry flies, look for rises in transition zones where shallow water meets deeper, slower water. When fishing streamers, retrieve with a slow and low pace, keeping close to the bottom. Tandem rigs, such as a streamer with a nymph, can increase your chances of success.

Size Down

Use 5X - 7X tippets and leaders during winter. Try fluorocarbon for nymph fishing and monofilament for dry flies. Always carry extra spools in your vest or pack to avoid running out during a trip.

Stay Warm, Dress in Layers

Dressing in layers is essential for winter fly fishing. Wear a thin liner and merino wool socks for warmth, along with a moisture-wicking base layer. Neutral-colored outerwear, a breathable jacket, and a beanie are recommended. Carry two pairs of gloves, hand warmers, and wear studded boots or ice cleats for safety. A wading staff can also help with icy terrain.

Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome

With the right gear and knowledge, winter fly fishing can be incredibly rewarding. Adjust your techniques based on fish behavior and don’t be afraid to switch between nymphs, streamers, or dry flies. Stay mindful of winter hazards and enjoy the unique serenity this season brings—it doesn’t last forever!