We are off to a cold start to 2011, but that does not have to mean no more fishing until spring. We are lucky enough to not have to deal with total freeze on most of our rivers. They will build up ice on the edges, and some might freeze over for a short period of time, but for the most part our water will stay flowing all year.

     We are very blessed with having a ton of options. The most readily available streams in our area are the Delayed Harvest waters. It has been almost 4 months since they were last stocked but we are finding good numbers of fish holding over from the October/November stockings. These fish have seen a good amount of pressure and have felt a few hooks. That being said they still have to eat. The key on these streams (and most others) this time of year is fishing deep and slow. Medium to large rubber leg stonefly patterns(boss hogs, double bead stones) sizes 12-16 are a great choice as a point fly, followed by a small Pheasant Tail nymph, Hare’s Ear, or one of my favorites a Zebra midge (sz16-24).

    On the wild trout water my fly selection would include the same as above but I would also definitely have some Blue Wing Olives and some smaller Black Caddis (sz20)just in case the situation does arise when fish are hitting the surface. I would spend less time per hole on the wild water.

    By far the most consistent fishing during the winter can be found just over the border in Eastern Tennessee on one of the Southeast’s primer tail waters. The fisheries are absolutely phenomenal and offer the Fly Angler the opportunity for dry fly fishing year round! Small flies are generally in order when heading over the mountains. Zebra midges and black fly larva (sz18-26) are the key midge flies but don’t forget your BWO dries and your BWO split cases because (sz16-22) they will be needed. Scud imitations are also something to think about right after generation.

    But we can’t forget about probably the most famous fishery in Western North Carolina the Davidson River. This is the time to be on the D. Crowds have dwindled and fish of that size definitely have to eat. Midges are typical fare this time of year with my favorite colors being Red, Gray, Cream, and Black (sz18-26). Small Pheasant Tails (sz24) will stick fish as well. If the rain comes up goes the Davidson as should you with your streamer box. San-Juans will also do well in this scenario.

    No matter what be sure to get out and enjoy the water or stop in the shop and talk fishing. Trust me you are not twisting anyone’s arm!