Hot off the press everybody – here are the latest tips and tactics to land the fish while there’s snow on the ground!
With the water temperatures as cold as they are, midges are the most effective way to fool that spooky rainbow in the low, clear water. Be armed with a variety of sizes and colors. Soft Hackle Black and Gray Biot Midges, Black Beauties, RS2′s, Craven colored Jujubee Midges, Red Brassies, the list goes on and on… These are all great patterns to throw this time of year. Sizes are 20 and 22.
The next question is, what do I trail these tiny midges behind? The answer is small Golden Stones, Eggs, small Pheasant Tails (non – beadhead), small Blue Copper Johns, etc.
Fish these flies with a 6x, 9ft leader and a small white strike indicator. Stealth is key to hooking fish right now and concentrate on slower moving areas of the river, preferably below tail-outs and bends.