Temperatures are cold and the water is clear, so fish may be more aware and sensitive to bugs and tippet size.  Snow has begun to stick to the sides of the river, so be cautious when approaching the water.  Lighter tippet and small flies will be the key to success this time of the year.  We are still seeing small baetis and midges hatching on the river, so be aware if you spot fish rising.  Nymph rigs will be the most productive so be sure to have a variety of small baetis, midge, leech, and scud patterns in your box.  If fish are sitting higher in the water column or rolling at the surface, emerger patterns can interest the fish to eat.  

For dry flies, small baetis and midge patterns have been working for us here in the shop.  CDC Baetis Duns, Ext. Body BWO’s, and Sprout Midges are great choices for when fish are rising.  If fish are eating emergers, try trailing Copper Ribbed RS2’s, Barr’s Emerger BWO, or Juan’s Sniper Baetis in sizes #20-22.  If fish are a little deeper, put those flies behind a beaded nymph or split shot.

Nymphing will be the most effective way to catch fish this time of year.  Same game here, with small flies being in your best interest.  Baetis and midge patterns are excellent options, along with smaller scuds, worms and leeches.  Two Bit Hookers, Bling Midges, and Poison Tungs can be great options to start out with, trailed behind a small Mayer’s Mini Leech, Scud, or San Juan Worm.

We are at the tailing end of streamer season, but big flies will still work for a few more weeks.  Thin Mints, Sculpzillas, and Sparkle Minnows are all great options when targeting those larger trout.  A sink tip line or versitip leader will help to get those bigger flies down into the strike zone.  Stay safe and have fun fishing!