Fly Fishing in Winter: A Guide to Fly Fishing in Snow

Fly fishing in the winter sounds challenging, but it can also be exciting and fun. The quite and tranquility is second to none.  This guide can help you make the most out of your experience:

• Choose the right venue – Look up places where you can do fly fishing in the winter. The South Platte, Gunnison, Madison, and the Snake River are just some suggestions. Going on a ski trip? See if there’s a river or lake where you can also enjoy fly fishing.  There are many fisheries that close in the winter, but sure to check the local regulations.

• Dress for Success -  It’s winter, the water is cold.   Dress for it.   Make sure you have high quality thermal clothes and base layer.   Nothing is worse than cold feet and hands.   Prepare accordingly.   Have a hand towel to dry wet hands.   I’d also recommend a hand warmer.   Layer your socks.   I’m partial to merino wool.

• Consider Euro Nymphing – Euro Nymphing covers a wide range of fishing styles.   The important element here is that you are general high sticking in pocket water without lengthy casts.   Why is this important?   Ice in your guides is going to kill your ability to traditionally cast.   When Euro Nymphing, you’re fishing in tighter spaces.   

• Make sure you have the right accessories – The metabolism of fish slows down as the water temperature drops.   They are not as active.  Many times you need to put your fly right on the fishes nose.  With the water cold and clear, you want to make sure you are using as light as a leader and tippet as possible.   

• Watch the weather – More surface activity occurs on sunny days.   Generally the hatches are midges and potentially some blue winged olives.   These will occur in the afternoon.   You don’t need to get on the water first thing.   Sleep in, get a good breakfast, then hit the water. 

Prepare for winter fly fishing

I always have a change of clothes with me, always.   If you should happen to get wet, you’ll be glad you did.  I also like to take heat packs for the same reason.   Vehicles take a while to heat up.   RiverBum is your one-stop source for everything needed for a fly fishing adventure in the snow.  Shop now and get free shipping on all orders exceeding $50 in the US.

Source URL: https://riverbum.com/fly-fishing-blog/fly-fishing-in-winter-a-guide-to-fly-fishing-in-snow/


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