So you are out on the river and that slow moving water is getting the better of you. That’s ok because if it was easy everyone would be out there fishing also! Here are some more tips and tricks for late season fly fishing that will help on those cold slow days on the river.

1) Winter, summer, spring or fall the woolly bugger is a streamer that is time tested. Make sure when you are using these to give small twitches and retrieve them slowly to imitate small fish or leeches. As we said before in the first blog “Presentation is key”.

2) The Hare’s ear or pheasant tail  is a great fly for stubborn fish. Even a small stonefly nymph presented correctly and close to the riverbed can get those big fish lurking on the bottom. A tungsten head will get that fly to the bottom. Remember that patience is huge.

3) You might not see them in the air but watch for any hatch activity. As this is vital many times of the year, don’t neglect to take your time watching the water for a bit, lifting a rock or two or see what is moving on top of the water. Doing this can help you decide your tactics and fly.

4) Use lighter tippet! If you think fish are cautious normally , during the winter they are on a whole other level. Lighter tippet sizes and smaller flies with a great presentation will help give a more natural appearance. 

5) Have a second set of clothes. Every so often we slip on rock snot, and down we go filling our waders with water or soaking part of our clothing. It does not take long for hypothermia to kick in when the temperature is down. Extra pants, t-shirt and sweatshirt will go a long way. I always wear Crocs to and from the river (So does Joe Humphreys). They are easy to slip into when you are cold and your hands are shaking. Make life simple on and off the river.

Hopefully these tips help you land a great late season trout. Tight lines!

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