Catching WNC’s trout in the cold
Fishing in western NC this month means bundling up and being patient. It’s an unpredictable time for the weather, which can range from what-are-we-doing-out-here cold to afternoons in the high 60s.
According to the folks at Headwaters Outfitters in Rosman, NC, tiny flies are the norm for this time of year, but they said on unseasonably warm days, they also have success using bigger flies.
French Broad River
On the North Fork of the French Broad River, girdle bugs, hares ears, worm patterns, black copper johns, soft hackles and midges generally work well this time of year, but tossing a streamer every now and then is always a good idea, they said.
Over on the East Fork of the French Broad, they said girdle bugs, worm patterns, BWO nymphs, tailwater tinies and assorted midges are all good bets. If the fish aren’t hitting your small flies, upsize and see how that works out. If you’re fishing with big flies and having no luck, go tiny.
Davidson River
The Davidson River has some of the most educated trout in the region, but anglers will still find plenty to like about it this time of year. With fewer anglers hitting the water thanks to cold temperatures, it’s easy to find peace and solitude here. But the fishing can be tough.
The water this time of year is typically gin clear, causing fish to be warier than usual. Winter’s lack of activity from natural insects adds to the challenge of garnering interest from trout.
Still year after year, many of the same anglers find success here. Some of the best flies include olive midges, black midges, BWO nymphs and dry flies, Griffith’s gnat, and parachute adams. Make sure to present these as delicately as possible, preferrably with leaders of 6x or 7x.
It’s never a bad time to be on the river, but anglers struggling to get a rise right now should take heart. Spring is on the way, and that will bring swarms of hatches and top-notch fishing.
For more information from Headwaters Outfitters, give them a call at 828-877-3106.
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