Winter trout wisdom

Head to western NC for cold-weather trout action

Winter trout fishing in the mountains of North Carolina can be outstanding for anglers who don’t mind the cold. December is truly one of the best months to get on the many rivers and streams that run through the western part of the state.

Of course, it does come with its share of challenges, but none of them should turn anglers away.

The folks at Davidson River Outfitters have some tips to help you make the most of your winter fly fishing trips here.

Dress properly

Dressing properly isn’t just a safety issue because of cold weather. It’s also true that the more comfortable you are, the better you will fish, and the more enjoyable your trip will be.

Dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable this month.

“Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, then add a mid-layer for insulation, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer-layer,” they said.

They also suggest ditching the socks you wore on the way to the stream and replacing them with a fresh pair before putting on your waders.

Beef it up

Because the water is colder and fish are less active, anglers should use a heavier rod and line, which will allow them to make longer casts and to get their flies down to where the fish are holding. A 6-weight rod and line is a good choice for most conditions.

Go deep

During the winter months, trout will move to deeper, slower-moving pools and runs, seeking the warmest and most oxygenated water.

Anglers should focus on this deeper water while using natural-looking flies like midges, scuds and stoneflies.

Keep it simple

During winter, trout will shy away from flashier flies, and tend to be more attracted to small, simple flies.

Using flies that imitate midges, scuds and stoneflies, which trout are actively feeding on this time of year, will give anglers a much better shot at catching trout.

Warm yourself

It’s easy to get cold during a day of fishing. That can dull the senses and put you in the wrong frame of mind for fishing. One of the best ways to fix this is to pack some beef jerky or other high-protein snack, and to carry a thermos full of coffee or hot cocoa.

The simple pleasure of taking a few sips of your choice of warm beverage will go a long way in keeping your spirits up, and putting you in the right frame of mind to catch more fish.