Check the Weather
Inclement weather can pose serious health hazards if you are unprepared. Take a few minutes and give the forecast a thorough inspection. Layer and dress accordingly and don’t be afraid to pack a change of clothes. It pays to use a little common sense. Be aware of the risks, plan for things to go wrong and know when it’s time to change the plan, even if it means spending the day tying rather than fishing.
Time of Day – Hit the Snooze
Here’s a fact. Winter mornings are generally cold as f*ck! We know it and the fish know it. The best bet is patience, wait a hour or two. As the sun rises higher in the sky the temperature will increase and so will the activity levels of the fish. Think mid-morning thru mid-afternoon as your optimal window for success. We schedule all our winter guide trips from 10 -2.
Know Where to Fish
Tailwaters! Tailwaters! Tailwaters! The Lower and Middle Provo River are both excellent local choices here in Park City. Look for slower moving runs with good depth. Trout will pod together in these deeper runs. Also, look for groundwater springs with warmer water flowing into the main body of the stream.
Small Flies & Light Tippet
Size #26 and #28 can be the norm. With such small flies and clear water, 6 and 7 X is generally required. Good drifts and accurate casts will also increase your chances. Most fish will be reluctant to chase, move or exert any energy to acquire a small morsel of food. Be “midgecentric”! If you are unsure what this means, please book a trip with us so we can get you on the right path. Both surface and sub-surface patterns and techniques can be effective in the winter months.
Pack a Thermos & Don’t Go Alone
In the end there are two pieces of winter gear that will insure a successful and safe day on the water. Trust us, having a high quality thermos with some kind of high quality hot drink or soup in it will surely save the day when you get back to the truck. And in the end, there is one piece of safety gear you should take with you any time things look like they could get sketchy, or even when they don’t. A fishing buddy. The only thing better than surviving a cold weather fly fishing event is having a friend to tell the story.
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