Let it snow…
We’ve received a fair amount of snow in the valley lately, bolstering snowpack and providing a bright outlook for flows on our local waters. Let’s hope it stays that way!
Fishing on Silver Creek during this time of year can be productive swinging small dark leeches and woolly buggers; black, olive, brown, and maroon in sizes 8 – 12 are all effective. Deep undercut banks found near Point of Rocks and The Willows can yield some impressive trout.
On the Big Wood River, lower Big Lost River and South Fork of the Boise River tandem nymph rigs fished through typical winter holding water (slow runs, pools, and tailouts) will take plenty of fish. For the lead fly, use something that gets the attention of sluggish trout; large rubber legs, girdle bugs, yuk bugs, princes, and san juan worms are all good choices. Downsize your dropper nymphs to diminutive size 18 – 24 zebra midges, brassies, copper johns, pheasant tails, and rainbow warriors.
There are few experiences as magical as fishing the Big Wood River during a winter snowstorm. Steady, low pressure and heavy, wet snowflakes often equate to some of the best winter fishing on the Big Wood. It looks like anglers will have plenty of opportunities like this during the next few weeks.
Any surface feeding activity this time of year will be limited to midges during the afternoons, so look for feeding fish along foam lines and slower eddies. Remember, “the foam is their home.”
Be prepared to deal with inclement weather when fishing in the winter. Always bring extra clothes to change into in the event of an unexpected spill, and having extra gloves and hats makes sense when fishing on cold, wet days. Your vehicle should carry basic survival items – jumper cables, food, water, blankets, etc. Always let someone know where you are going to be. A few extra precautions go a long way!
If you’re looking for holiday gift ideas for anglers, give us a shout. A Picabo Angler gift certificate is the perfect stocking stuffer!
Stay safe and warm out there, and Happy Holidays to all!
Happy fishing, everyone!
