Winter Fly Fishing

November 25, 2024

The Complete Guide to Winter Fly Fishing: Tips for Success

Winter fly fishing often gets a bad rap, with many anglers avoiding it entirely. Why? Perception. Cold weather, icy rivers, and the assumption that trout won’t bite can make winter fishing seem like an uphill battle. But the reality is far more encouraging. While trout slow down during the colder months, they never stop eating. Armed with the right knowledge, winter fishing can be a rewarding experience.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to embracing the season and landing those cold-weather trout.

Do Trout Feed in Winter?

Yes! While trout metabolism slows in cold water, they still need to eat to survive. Food scarcity can make them less active, but it also means they’re opportunistic, taking advantage of every meal. Understanding where and when to fish is the key to success. Trout eat throughout winter—you just need to meet them where they are.

Where to Fish: It’s All About the Water

Winter fishing isn’t just about braving the cold; it’s about choosing the right water. Trout prefer stable environments where water temperatures stay relatively consistent.

Tailwaters: A Winter Haven

Tailwater rivers, fed by bottom-release dams, often maintain temperatures above 40°F. This is perfect for active trout and a variety of food sources like midges, scuds, and mysis shrimp. Popular tailwaters like Colorado’s Blue and Taylor Rivers or Utah’s Green River attract anglers for a reason—they’re productive even in the depths of winter.

Tip: Tailwaters can be crowded. If solitude is your goal, consider exploring lesser-known sections or arriving early.

Spring-fed Rivers: Hidden Gems

Spring-fed rivers stay warmer than freestone streams, with some reaching a cozy 50°F even on the coldest days. Trout thrive in these stable conditions, making them a great option for winter fishing.

Winter Hatches: Bugs in the Cold

Surprising as it may seem, insect activity doesn’t stop in winter. Midges are the most reliable hatch, with some streams also seeing baetis (Blue-Winged Olive) mayflies on warmer days. Here’s what to look for:

Midges: Tiny but prolific, midges are your go-to hatch in winter. A size 20-24 Griffith’s Gnat is a reliable dry-fly choice for rising trout.
Baetis (BWOs): On overcast days above freezing, baetis mayflies emerge. A size 18-20 Blue-Winged Olive is an excellent match for these bugs.

Pro Tip: Watch for snowfly midges—slightly larger varieties (size 18) that make for exciting dry-fly action.

Techniques

While dry-fly fishing has its moments, winter fly fishing is predominantly a subsurface game. Perfecting your nymphing skills is essential.

Nymphing: Low and Slow

Trout feed near the riverbed in winter, so your presentation should stay close to the bottom. Try these approaches:

Euro-Nymphing: A tight-line technique that offers excellent depth control.
Indicator Fishing: Drift nymphs like a Zebra Midge or a Copper John under an indicator for precise strikes.

Fly Selection: What’s in Your Box?

Winter flies need to mimic the limited food available. Pack these patterns for your next trip:

Griffith’s Gnat: Perfect for midge clusters on the surface.
Prince Nymph: A versatile fly for stoneflies and caddis imitations.
Copper John: Highly visible and effective in various sizes and colors.
Perdigon Nymph: A heavy, streamlined fly for deep pools.
Woolly Bugger: Mimics sculpins and larger prey for opportunistic trout.

Stay Safe and Warm

Fishing in freezing temperatures requires preparation. Here’s how to stay comfortable and avoid hypothermia:

Dress in Layers: Opt for moisture-wicking, non-cotton base layers, fleece insulation, and waterproof outerwear.
Neoprene Waders: Old-school but effective for trapping heat.
Foot Warmers: Battery-powered or chemical hand warmers can keep extremities toasty.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, which can accelerate heat loss.
Protect Your Face: A gaiter and beanie can shield you from biting wind.