Thought I would post a few tips about fly fishing for trout on freestone streams in the winter. This should help increase your success while fishing our area Delayed Harvest waters.
1) Fish deep
Cold water holds more oxygen than warm water. For this reason, concentrate more on fishing the long, deep, slow moving pools. They generally won't hold in the plunge pools or riffles like they do in warmer weather. They are there in the summer because that water holds more oxygen. In the winter they have plenty of O2 and are more concerned with the safety that deeper water provides. Don't forget to add split shot to get that fly down to where they are holding.
2) Fish slower
When the water gets cold, the metabolism of trout slows way down. They don't have to eat as much and they become lethargic. They won't move or chase a fly as far as they will in warmer water. That's why you hear guides say that you have to "bounce it off their nose" in order to get a strike sometimes. Be sure and cover the water thoroughly before moving on to the next fishing spot.
3) Be stealthy
This is always important, but in colder water it becomes even more of an issue. The water is usually gin clear because cold water does not hold particulate matter like warmer water does. The fish can easily see you approach. They can also see you cast, so keep the false casting to a minimum.
These are just a few basic tips that should help you increase your catch rates. The winter fishing in this area can be great, so don't let the cold weather deter you from hitting the water. You may just have the stream all to yourself, so get out and enjoy the solitude!
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