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Flyfishing in Highlands Winter Style
Written By: Chris Wilkes - The Highland Hiker | Issue: 2017/11 - November
A lot of folks visiting the Western North Carolina mountains look at the end of October as the end of trout season.
Those who live here know that there’s a lot more fishing left before year’s end. The truth is that fishing in November and December can be much more fruitful than trying to fish in July and August when everyone just happens to be here.
Those fish that got stocked pre-October should still be there come November, as long as most anglers practiced catch and release, and the colder water will certainly make the fish more active than they would be in the summer months when the water is much warmer. A few changes in your preparation from fall to winter should help you maximize your time on the water.
First off, get into your flybox and take out most of your dry flies. As the weather gets colder, hatches are not going to happen and the trout know it. Throwing top water stuff is a waste of time. Other than a few top water stimulators (Jack Cabe hoppers are still useful) make sure your box is filled with nymphs and maybe a few squirmy wormies.
The cold water keeps the fish active but the lack of food sources will make them hang out in parts of the river that act as a conveyor belt, bringing them their best chances to eat. You will want to make the presentation as such. Let the river take your fly and bring it to the trout as naturally as possible. You will be happy with the strikes you get.
Make sure your waders are still tip top. Test them in the tub, to make sure there are no leaks. Getting wet in the summer and fall is annoying, but getting soaked in the winter will end your trip pretty quick. Hand warmers are also a great thing to have to bring some feeling back to the fingers before you try tying knots.
And don’t forget the best thing about fishing after October, you’ll probably be the only one around!
