WNC’s rivers are recovering

Catch a December trout with these tips

Helene wrecked western NC’s rivers and streams for a spell, but like the people that live there, these waters are resilient, and although they may look different than they did before, one thing’s for sure – the fishing in December is top notch for trout.

“This can truly be the best month to fish North Carolina’s trout waters,” said Matt Evans of The Catawba Angler (828-460-2390). “December is really an overlooked month to trout fish.”

Evans said part of that is because fewer people are visiting the area, meaning anglers have more space to themselves. But that’s not the only reason.

“The crowds have dwindled and the fishing is just as good, if not better, than it is during the fall,” he said. “The trout are keyed in on blue wing olives, midges, and early black stones.”

Evans said water temperatures vary greatly this month, so anglers need to be flexible.

“We’ll see water temperatures anywhere from the upper 30s to the lower 50s this month,” he said. “This time of year, I try to schedule my trips around the time the water temperature begins to rise.”

Small flies, long leaders

That means anglers shouldn’t worry about getting there too early.

“The best fishing in wintertime is typically going to be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,” he said.

Another challenge this time of year, said Evans, is the clarity of the water.

“The water is normally crystal clear,” he said, which makes trout easily spooked.

That means anglers should use very long leaders, and very small flies.

“Small flies are a must-have for every angler’s fly box. And that’s especially true in December,” he said. “You also need to lengthen your leaders. The longer the leader, the farther away you can present flies to fish without getting on top of them.”

Evans generally runs a 12-foot leader this month.

“In December, a shorter leader just won’t cut it,” he said.