Finding Fish in Winter - Spooled Episode #26

In this episode of Spooled, Brian, Matt, and Joe answer listener questions about no-hackle dry flies before giving you five tips for using your time wisely on the water during the winter months.

1. Manage Your Expectations: Winter fishing can be difficult, especially for fly anglers. Handling fly line & frozen guides can quickly turn a fun outing into misery. Focus your energy on keeping dry and warm while understanding that fish may not be as active as we would all like. Reframe your days out as mental health escapes and a chance to work on skills and explore new locations.

2. Use The Right Tactics: Unfortunately, winter is not time rig up your favorite dry fly rod in the midwest. Instead, we recommend narrowing down your tactics to the simplest ways to fish: streamer fishing or nymph fishing. Nymph fishing is always going to be the most productive during the colder months. Consider using a euro setup to minimize line contact with your hands and find more fish holding deep.

3. Fish The Right Water: Choosing the right location is crucial for successful winter fishing. The ideal water type in winter varies, but generally, fish tend to avoid fast-moving currents and prefer areas where they can conserve energy. Inside bends of deeper pools, transition areas between pools and riffles, and the seam lines are often productive spots. However, it's essential to adapt to each river's unique characteristics and explore different water types throughout the winter. Checking local regulations for open water and using resources like inland trout maps can guide anglers to suitable fishing locations.

4. Fish The Right Time: Selecting the right time to fish is equally important during winter. Optimal fishing hours are typically during the warmest part of the day, from around 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fishing when temperatures are more favorable makes the experience more enjoyable and manageable. It's advised to avoid overly long sessions and focus on smaller time chunks, emphasizing quality over quantity. Additionally, fishing during snow squalls and fronts can be productive, and adapting to changing weather conditions is key. 

5. Know When to Call It: Winter fishing presents unique challenges, and knowing when to call it a day is a crucial aspect of ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience. Unlike the summertime when it's easy to spend extended hours on the water, winter demands a more measured approach. It's just not worth forcing it on the water - forcing it causes frustration and developing bad habits.