January 19, two weeks into the early trout season. Up to this point we’ve had decent weather for fishing but as of today the real Winter has arrived. I’m guessing I won’t get out for a while but here are my thoughts on the season so far. 

Based on my experience thus far, water temperatures are the biggest factor in determining one’s success. On home waters, I’ve found just moving a couple of miles, closer to the natural springs, can make a difference. I have my stream thermometer attached to my landing net and check it often. Although there are always exceptions, I’m finding little activity when it is at or below 37 degrees. Action picks up in the 38-40 degree mark, and once it climbs above 40 degrees, the fishing is much more consistent. On the other hand, once temperatures begin to decline, the fishing will quickly stop. 

This time of year, I’m usually fishing streamers. Although I employ many different techniques, I spend most of my time fishing slow swings. I often add a little motion in the slow water and typically let it swing in faster sections. One other trick is to just let the fly stall at the end of the swing. After a few moments, slowly twitch your fly back towards you. During the course of your day, this method can produce a few more strikes, hopefully a few more fish. 

I enjoy tying simple streamers and, perhaps, enjoy tweaking them even more. In the winter, I’m not looking to add a lot of movement. I need the materials to do that for me. In my opinion, nothing beats marabou and soft fibers to achieve that goal. One or both of those materials are almost always included in my patterns. 

There are many streamer patterns to choose from that may produce. However, if I were to keep things simple, this is what I’d recommend. Woolly Buggers in sizes #8 and#12, All Black and Olive with Black hackle. Most days, I believe one of those two colors is enough to get the job done. Do they always work? No, but it’s a good place to start. 

Once this cold snap ends, and it looks like it may be a while, I’ll be back out there. In the meantime, I’ll leave you with two pieces of advice. #1- check stream temps, look for that 40 degree mark. #2- have confidence in your pattern selected. I find I always fish better when I believe in my fly. 

Stay warm, better days will come.