This Week Tips for fishing Local, Municipal or City Ponds

Lots of Water, Lots of Company, Lots of Fish


This week we step away from our normal all fly fishing column to talk about all around fishing. Especially for families and young children. It is important to introduce the entire family to the sport of fishing and to be honest the local municipal ponds are a great point of entry. Yes, you can fly fish on these ponds, but be prepared for some strong competition.

Utah Channel Cats, Trout, Blue Gill, Large Mouth Bass, Carp and More

Photo Utah Channel Catfish At Willow Pond

Fishing local, municipal or city ponds has become a part of fishing life for many urban Americans. With the increased cost of travel, less time for fishing and a larger population who fish, for many, the local pond has become the main attraction for avid anglers. And so it should be. "Put and take" fisheries provide recreation, can be quite pretty and are a great place for youngsters. In addition, municipal ponds are great for people who have a challenge getting around and are also a great place to practice your fly fishing techniques. What they do not offer is solitude and a high quality fishing experience. These are public ponds and any angler with a license can fish there. There are several other problems which I will discuss below.

In general, a variety of fish are planted in public ponds: Trout, Catfish, Bass, Bluegill and various minnows to provide a food base. Depending on the water quality and temperature, some natural reproduction may occur.

What Do I Need To Know To Catch My Own Mess Of Fish?

So, how do you fish these ponds? First, lets talk about some basics and then we can get into more technical details.

Photo Channel Catfish Utah Willow Pond

The first step on any pond is to know the rules and regulations. Most often, they will be posted, but if not, check your local regulations so you do not inadvertently harm the fishery.



Second: Observe. Note the water quality and clarity. Find out where the inlets and outlets are, what the source of the water is (spring fed or creek fed). Try to figure out what the topography of the lake is: how deep is it, are there any old river channels and underwater structure.


Next: Research. Whatever research you can do on the front end, will help you greatly. Find the local Wildlife Official and ask questions. Be sure to ask the most important question: what fishing technique is working and what is the stocking schedule! If you cannot find the local wildlife person, ask those fishing the water. You would be surprised how friendly and helpful they can be. I am on a first name basis with many of the fishers at my local pond and I freely give and receive advice. If you are lacking the latest hot bait, sometimes someone will generously give you some. And if you are toting a youngster, which I usually am, other fishermen often will let your youngster land their fish. In reality the social side of the local pond is one of the nice benefits and so, while you are fishing be sure to make some new friends and acquaintances while doing so. Of course, the best way to make a friend is to be a friend so be sure to be helpful with advice and generous if you are so inclined.

Photo Large mouth Bass Utah Bountiful Pond

Also check the pond vegetation as this has a great impact on what the fish will eat and what techniques will work.

BAIT


Most anglers will be using bait. Power bait and its variants are quite popular here in Utah but they have given rise to "Fleigenbinders Power Bait Rule: Fish will bite on whatever color or flavor you do not have in your arsenal." But, do not overlook the standards: worms seem to work quite regularly and salmon eggs are usually very productive in the spring.

For kids, I highly recommend a small chunk of night crawler on a small hook with no weight at all. That will usually bring in the Bluegill and Sunfish. And, kids want action. A spinning rod with a de-hooked spinner is just the ticket for a youngster to learn to cast and not endangering himself or others around!

RIGGING:


When using bait, the best all around rigging is to thread either a clear plastic bubble filled with water or a lead egg sinker above a swivel. Then add 12" to 36" of leader onto the down line end of the swivel where you attach your hook. I often attach two hooks (Double Trouble) either with similar bait fished at two different depths or two different types of bait until I find out what is working. Be sure to check your regulations to make sure that Double Trouble is legal on your water.
Using this setup, you should have enough weight to cast quite a long distance and often this is the trick for municipal fisheries, however don't forget that in many cases, fish will be close to the shore and you might be casting over them.

A common mistake is using too much weight hooked directly to your line. You might be able to cast a good distance but you are simply inviting snags. Don't use too much weight.

The secret to casting long distances is not your weight but your line, reel and rod. I am always amazed at how some individuals can't seem to cast more than about 20'! Make sure you have fresh and not too heavy line - 4-6 lb line is fine for trout and a bit bigger for larger species. Make sure your line is filled to just below the rim of the spool. If you are having trouble casting any distance, take it to someone more experienced and have them check it.

Make sure you can cast appropriate distances, if you cant, you are probably wasting your time!

I'll post more about fishing municipal ponds soon, in the mean time. Happy Fishing!


Fenwick

PS Enjoy The Rest Of The Photo's (How About Some Fly Fishing For Utah Carp)?

Photo Utah Carp Bountiful Lake

Photo Bountiful Lake Carp Utah























Photo Carp Bountiful Lake Utah
























Photo Utah Carp

























Photo Utah Carp




















Photo Municipal Pond Murray Utah























Photo Municipal Pond Murray Utah


















Photo Willow Pond Murray Utah















Photo Tiger Trout Utah



















Photo Spring Bluegill Utah



















Photo Arm to Arm Fishermen

April Fly Fishing Secrets Leeches And Woolly Buggers

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Spring Fly Fishing Brings Out Some Of The Weirdest Looking Insects And Most Colorful Attractors
Photo Mohair Leech
April fly fishing secrets is about to be announced. So get ready to learn about leeches and woolly buggers.

Long, lean and brilliant in color this eggplant color mohair leech is not only bright but the feathers undulate and create a fantastic swimming action in the cold spring water imitating natural aquatic life. Never underestimate the power of illusion created by quality feathers as they flow in the water. In the experienced hands this fly comes to life with movement and poise. Just like a puppet on a string. Skill comes fast to every angler with a little practice combined with trial and error in the presentation. Secrets of leeches and woolly buggers is now revealed for all fishermen to read and enjoy!
Red Hot Fishing Colors Can Create Life.
Brilliant colors attract the fish from all over the water and in all manner of cover. Your best secret for fishing with an attractor pattern is movement with color. Remember the the fly must "dance" to bring out the aggressiveness in the fish and to appear to be alive and desirable. Cold water means a slow retrieve. So use the rod tip to create a "bounce" up and down during the line "strip". Start the line strip as soon as the fly is near the bottom and begin with about a 3-4 inch "jerk".
Rod Tip Must Be Kept Low To The Surface


Keep the rod tip close to the water surface as the fly drifts near the bottom, then "pop it" (rod tip) up quickly about 4-6 inches just before you begin the retrieve. This action creates a swimming affect as well as one of the prey trying to escape ! The position of the rod down low keeps consistent tension on the line. Tight lines is the desired affect.
Hooking Secrets That Keep The Fish On

So when you set the hook, pull the rod along the surface of the water, not "up" in the air. Test this concept before you lose a fish. The "up" direction lifts the line off the water and there is no hooking action. Pulling the rod back and parallel to the water surface keeps the tension in place and the hook in the fish.
Repeat The Action For Success

After the retrieve is complete, lower the rod down near the surface to allow the fly to return to the lowest point near the bottom. Watch your line to make sure the fly is down, and "pop" the rod tip again and start the retrieve process all over again. The fish will usually strike as the fly is falling. This early in the Spring a cruising fish in a large pool, pond or lake will likely "pull" the fly sideways as it feeds on anything in the area. So be prepared for some "light" strikes and pay close attention to the line moving from one side to the other.
Adjust Your Weight To Water Speed and Depth

Note there is no "bead head" for weight so this fly can have a small snail sinker placed anywhere from just above the eye of the hook to 6-8 inches up the line from the eye. This style of no bead also allows the angler to adjust the weight used with various size sinkers depending on water current and the desired speed of decent to carry the fly down. Another example of a secret to fly presentation is proper line weighting. Multiple small sinkers several feet apart creates a different presentation of a fly with an equal amount of weight but only used in a single sinker located closer to the fly.
Blazing Red Belly With An Orange Tail Just For Spring!!!
Photo Spring Tiger Trout Utah
Tiger trout are taking on that bright red and orange belly for the Spring spawn. The tips of their fins are tinted red too, just like the Spring colors of the brook trout (the Tigers mother). I love the black lines that flow like the cut out lines in a jigsaw puzzle across the Tigers body highlighted with an alternating white and green background. Notice the perfect tail of a wild trout. It hasn't been worn round like fish from a hatchery.




Photo Spring Spawning Tiger Trout


Photo Bead Head Leech


As Blue As The Cold Water It may be light blue now but once it is introduced into the water the leech will darken up and be easily seen over a long distance. Moving in a jerky pattern over a weed bed, off of a concealment by the bank or just through a deep hole or pool this attractor pattern says it loud and clear "come and get me".
Why Bright Fly Colors Are Effective !

The pioneers used to call early spring the "lean times". Meaning is was a time to plant and not harvest plus most if not nearly all the winter supply was used up by now. Not only for man but for the animal world too. Spring trout were fattening up nicely because "love was in the air". It was time to spawn and they had to put on some extra weight to be ready. That meant eat everything available. So they do. Bright colors are used to attract fish throughout a large area, the area the fish can see. So you want to work the patterns slow, remember the fish are slow too, so they need some time after they see your fly to attack the target. If it moves too fast, they are not interested, fast moving food requires too much work for very little reward.
Photo Gold Bead Head Red Leech
Marabou is a perfect material for imitating a swimming insect or fish. As the leech is moving toward the fisherman the feather lays down in a streamline pattern creating a very sleek looking body. As the rod tip "jigs" and the fly slows down it's forward motion the feathers flow away from the body like a wing opening in all directions. This affect looks like the fly is slowing down while presenting a much bigger prize to any predators in the area. The marabou actually undulates creating the appearance of gills and external fins. What a fantastic illusionist. The perfect puppet in the hands of even the most inexperienced fisherman.

Site, Smell And Laterals
Site is the trouts ability to see the fly from the area it is hiding or crusing aroung in. Heavy weed cover limits the fishes ability to see too far except in the feeding lane. So make your presentation bright and in the lane for the best chances of getting a hit.

Smell means keep your hands smelling like the surroundings. Rub mud on your hands when you enter the water and tie on your first fly. Place mud on the leader, tippet and the fly. Get the plastic smell watered down, and don't worry the mud will wash off and leave the fly looking fine. Your fly must smell like the surroundings the fish are in.

Laterals, the side areas of the fish that sense food in the water. It works like radar and the fish can identify your fly by it's movement. The fish have a this keensense that picks up motion in the water to assist in their hunting ability. Large flies set off a larger target than do small flies. Take advantage of this sense and let the fish know you have something worthwhile for them to feed on.

Next week we will have some more tips and secrets for April fly fishing.

Spring Fly Fishing And How To Read A Stream

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Spring Fly Fishing In Utah Is Finally Here !!! Some Of The Best Fly Fishing Of The Year.

Photo Trophy Rainbow Trout Utah

Photo Utah Rainbow Trout

So it's time to take stock of just what flies the fish are feeding on at your favorite fishing grounds in Utah. This means having the patience and taking the time to look under some rocks, in the weeds and yes in the mouth and throat of the fish you catch. Taking this approach will assure more success and less frustration while you are on your favorite body of water fly fishing whether you are using dry flies or nymphs or streamers.

What's That Hiding Under Those Rocks ?

Take a moment and turn over a few rocks in the shallow area's as you enter the stream or river. In early spring you may have to move several before you see some life. But it's there. Leeches, and worm like larvae spend up to two years in this state of their life before maturing and leave the water as an adult. So fish are you used to seeing and eating them year round. Notice the colors and size so you can match some patterns from your fly box. Of course the fish don't turn over rocks to find these guys, but rising water, changing currents and less than sure footed fisherman move the rocks and send this food down the stream to hungry trout.

I Don't See Anything In These Weeds...

Just like checking those rocks for life, take a hand full of weeds and place them in some water. A small plate or dish even a cup will do. Don't get lazy and hold the weeds in front of your eyes to find the bugs. You won't find them ! They are attached and holding on for dear life while you dangle them over the stream. Plus the branches of the weeds help to cover them up. So take some time place the weeds in a plate, add some water and amazingly the critters will begin to move around so you can see them. The first time you do this you will be astonished at the variety and numbers of insects that are alive and moving around. It doesn't require a lot of work and you just may say to yourself "hey, why haven't I ever noticed this before" ?

Photo Fish Stomach Pump and Contents

His Mouth Is Empty So He Must Not Be Eating

O.k. you tried the rocks and the weeds now let's see what the trout are really eating today. So you selected a fly from your collection that looked pretty close to the critters you found under the rocks and in the weeds. Next you caught a fish ! Before you release him check out what is in his throat ! Be-sure-to-use-the-miss-named-"stomach pump". A simple little unit that looks like a "turkey baster". The trick is you don't suction the fishes stomach (any food that deep down is usually digested beyond recognition) you suction just down inside the throat. Fill the dropper with water, insert into the back of the throat and gently past the closure of skin separating the mouth and the throat leading to the stomach (esophagus for the technical crowd). Press the bulb to fill the area with water, release the bulb to "suck" up the contents. Gently release the fish, and empty the bulb into a dish, tray or cup of water. Wow ! Look at what this guy eats and most of them are still alive (fish don't chew their food like we do, they "gulp" and swallow). Now you know exactly what fly pattern and colors to use on your next cast. With a little research you can catch a lot of really nice fish.

Where Are Those Spring Fish Hiding ?

Spring trout are usually a little lethargic so they won't stray too far from deep water usually right below a riffle and a run. The small to medium fish will be located in the run, not as deep or as much cover as a hole. But just right for this size of fish to eat and hide. The hole in this picture is clearly displayed at the bottom of the photo with the run in the middle. Cast up stream into the run and let the current carry your fly down into the hole where the big ones are waiting. If you have taken the time to study the food supply you will placed the correct fly on your line and have the best chance of catching the big one.

Photo River Riffles, Run, Pools and Hole With Cover

The Rivers & Streams Are All Muddy

Spring brings mud first to the upper streams and rivers, so fish middle and lower sections to keep in the clear water. As spring begins to end the mud moves down to the lower sections so it's time to move to the higher elevations for clear water. Use this rule and you will always find clear streams and rivers to fish in.

Where The Streams Are Clear

Just below any dam will be clear year round and offer water that maintains a near constant water temperature. Don't forget these great locations for year round access to good trout fly fishing.

How To Read A Stream

Photo Trout Cover

Riffles: The shallow water that is flowing over rocks and the stream or river bed. The smorgasbord preparation area for hungry trout. This is where the main stay of aquatic life is living and growing. It is the buffet table for trout.

Runs: If the riffle is the buffet table the run is the fast water that is a conveyor belt delivering the food to the trout. Small and medium fish are located in this area.

Pools: Located just below a run it's the deep water that provides the cover big trout need to move around in and feed. Small and medium fish along with insects in this area are all prey for the big boys.

Cover: Around the pools you will see fallen trees, boulders, rocks and cuts in the banks. These all provide protection for the big fish. They can sit in a protected area out of sight and out of the main flow of the current and be ready to ambush whatever comes by that looks appetizing.

Active Fish : Use these tips and work the water and remember not all fish are active all the time. So move to new locations. Don't forget the trout cover for excellent places of ambush for large fish.

So Get Out & Find Some Action !

Not every run or pool will contain active fish, so be prepared to keep on moving to find the active ones. If you have done your home work and selected your fly patterns using the information noted from above you will greatly increase your chances of success, remember it's called fly fishing not catching.

CATCH MORE FISH, WHILE FLY FISHING I GUARANTEE!

CATCH MORE FISH GUARANTEED!

Photo Rainbow Trout Photo Utah Tiger Trout

Photo Utah Rainbow Trout

Photo Strawberry Cut Throat Trout

LEARN FROM OTHERS...

As a gregarious, novice fisherman, I used to seek out "experienced" fishermen and ask for advice and tips. I learned early that others experience and advice was a much faster way of learning than learning the "ropes" on my own. This is how I learned to catch more fish fly fishing, by following some simple techniques learned from others who gave me the same guarantee.

I met one old timer on a small stream. He was quite old and grizzled, but I said "Hi" and he was quite friendly. Armed with an old bamboo fly rod and automatic fly reel, he had a creel full of nice trout where I had caught nothing. So I said, "What's the secret to fly fishing?" His answer surprised me, he said; "Well, before you do anything else, tie good knots."

Frankly, I thought his answer was kind of stupid. I used an improved clinch knot and thought that would suffice for just about all fishing. But, shortly after meeting the old man, I lost a nice fish, careful inspection showed me that the knot had come undone and I lost both the fish and fly! I began to think more carefully about the old man's advice.

With trial and testing I began a lifelong study of knots. I used up a good deal of line carefully tying two knots to a swivel and pulling to test which one would break first. I would also experiment in the field to see which worked best. From all this testing, I developed a few simple knots and rules which have served me exceptionally well.

FLIEGENBINDER'S KNOT RULE # 1

Wherever possible, double the line through they eye of the hook.

My recommended knot for most line end situations is a Palomar Knot aka Duncan loop.

The Palomar is quick, easy to tie, exceptionally strong and complies with knot rule #1.

I even use the Palomar for rigging two flies on the same line - I simply leave a 12" or longer tag end after the knot to tie on another (bottom) fly and I use the Palomar to tie on the bottom fly as well.

The double improved clinch knot (DICK) will be slightly stronger, however the Palomar is so much easier to tie, I just don't use the DICK.

The only exception to this rule is when the eye of your fly is too small to accept a double loop of leader. When this happens, I use a improved clinch knot.

KNOT RULE #2

Spit and Polish

Use saliva to lubricate your knot as you carefully tighten the knot. This step is critical: watch carefully as you tighten to make sure it snugs up correctly. Often, your loop catches over the shaft of the fly rather than the line itself and will be significantly weaker than a correctly tied Palomar.

KNOT RULE #3

Inspect often

Carefully inspect your knot (and fly) regularly especially after catching a fish or a troublesome snag. Years ago, While fishing a remote mountain lake, the Cutthroat Trout were hitting my fly on nearly every cast but I kept losing the fish. They would hit, stay on for a few moments and then get off. It was very frustrating. Finally I inspected the fly and the point of the hook had broken off! All I had was the bend of the hook terminating in a dull stump. "Old Stumpy" would get the fish to rise but would not get them landed and he taught me a valuable lesson about inspecting your fly and knots.

For tying leader to fly line I use two Surgeons Loops as I find the loops slip through the guides more easily than a knot. Occasionally however, I will use a Nail Knot in the same situation. For most of my loops, when needed I use the Surgeons Loop which is basically a doubled Palomar knot. To tie tippet to leader I use Surgeons Knot - not to be confused with the Surgeons Loop

Practice the knots you intend to use. You could even start with a piece of rope or other cordage till you get the feel for them. Then practice on lengths of your fishing line or tippet until you can just about tie them blindfolded.

I have learned to use only two or three simple knots. I tie them carefully and consistently and I seldom loose fish because of knot breakage. If you are not following the knot rules, I suggest you try them and I guarantee that you will catch more fish. Remember the old man's advice"
"Before you do anything else, tie good knots."

Thanks

F. Fleigenbinder

First Things First - Fly Fishing Beginner Fly Fishing

Be Prepared & Have A Great Time Fly Fishing Beginner or Seasoned Pro.

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It is winter. And, when the snow stops, the arctic blasts subside and the snow slowly starts to melt, our hearts turn to fishing. Latitude and sun combine with the bright blue winter skies

to make us feel spring is just around the corner. But before we toss our rods, waders, and other equipment into the trunk and head for our favorite fishing spot, lets consider a few basics which should be the start of any new fly fishing season.

Photo Strawberry Cut Throat Trout

Photo Utah Cut Throat Trout

What Condition Is My Rod

Photo Strawberry Cut Throat Trout

First, take a moment to carefully inspect your rod. Any scratches or dings warranting our attention? Are all the windings and eyelets ship shape? If you have ceramic inserts in your eyelets, be sure to inspect them carefully for cracks or chips which can cut your line. And, don't forget to check the reel seat as well. It is far better to find and repair any problems now rather than when you are on your favorite the river, stream, lake or pond where you may not have your tools or resources to fix the problem.

Nail Polish Helps Seal Reel Screws & Scratches

Next, check your reel. Make sure it is lubricated and that all the screws are tight. If you should find a loose screw, now would be a good time to use Loc-Tite or clear nail polish on the screw before carefully replacing it. Also check for scratches on the reel and use touch up paint (I use flat black nail polish) and cover those. It's just cosmetic but I always feel better when my reel looks new rather than all beat up.

All Dressed Up Your Line Is Ready For A New Season Now check your line. I like to clean and dress mine at the beginning of each year and as needed through the year to make sure no problems exist. I check my line-end loop very carefully and replace it as needed.

Choose A New Leader & Check Your Backing
Photo Strawberry Cut Throat Trout

(Don't Want That Big "One To Get-Away)

If you still have last year's leader attached, take it off and chuck it! Grab a new fresh one and put it on. For my trout fishing, I like a 9' or longer leader down to about a 4 lb tip and then add the tippet I need for the conditions. Use whatever works best for you. You might even un-spool all your line and double check that your backing line is still good. Replace it if it is discolored or fraying in any way.
Photo Strawberry Cut Throat Trout

Check Waders For Leaks & Nets For Holes
(The Bathtub Makes A Great Imitation Of A Warm Body Of Water)

Don't forget to check your landing net, waders, flies and everything else you carry and make sure it is in good shape. There are few things worse than discovering a leak in your waders while on the stream in February or March - believe me I know!
Take Some Memories Home To Share Photo Utah Fly Fishing Utah Carp

Everyone Loves To See A


B-I-G F-I-S-H


And A Grandpa & Grandson

Don't forget your camera so you can make a record of your trip (cell phone camera's work great, but set the pixels high for the best quality) ! Include some scenery for the best framed shot around your subject and you will have a great memory of the subject as well as the surrounding beauty.

Hows the P.M.A. ?

You are not quite ready...there is one last piece of equipment to check. It is the one between your ears. I am convinced that your attitude is the most important tool in your possession. Have you thought about how you will make this season better than the last? Have you managed your expectations so that regardless of the outcome, you come back from fly fishing restored and refreshed? P.M.A. (positive mental attitude).


Photo Trout Stream
Take In All Of Your Surroundings

Your time on the water is a priceless and an extraordinary gift. If your quarry is gracious enough to let you catch them; and, in rare cases, even give its life to you, are you prepared to cherish and care for your stewardship? If catching trout and/or possessing them is your only objective, by all means, go and help yourself. My suspicion is you are missing something vital and important. Just as if you went with a cracked rod or broken reel, you may be going to the water completely and totally unprepared.

Fishing Memories Of Broken Fly Rods and Torn Up Flies

Memories Are Just As Exciting As A Photograph

I don't know how many fishermen keep their old torn up, chewed on flies, but I do. They bring back some fond memories of fishing trips gone by and good times in the outdoors with my friends and sons. I even have a special fly box I keep the old soldiers in and always carry the container in my vest pocket next to the new members of my line up. The trusted and proven players are with me everytime I hit the water just in case the action is slow or I Photo Utah Rainbow Trout want to take time out to enjoy the natural beauty and reminise about times gone by.

Teeth Marks, Missing Tail & Barely A Wing Case Left
Before Fly Met Trout
Photo Utah Rainbow Trout
This old style goes back 15 years ago when my son Daniel and I were taking our first fly tying classes together during the winter of 1994. He was 14 and wanted to learn how to fly fish. I had always been a bait and lure man myself but was open for some new experiences and the opportunity to spend some one on one time with one of my children. So we went into the local fly shop located in Layton Utah to sign up for the fall and winter season of tying classes that they offered.

Daniel tied at least a dozen different wet flies and streamers for us to use that winter and spring. Sad to say there is only one pheasant tail left from that time. But it had a great life and brought us both some additional memories with the trout we took and released on the Ogden and Weber rivers that winter and following spring.

Thanks to Daniels embrassing the sport my other two sons have taken up fly fishing too (my daughters just don't appreciate this sport) plus a granddaughter and grandson.

Now Three Generations Fly Fish Together

A few evening classes during the winter and spring months spending time with some great local fly shop owners in Layton Utah has created a lifetime of memories for me as well as my family. The shop is now gone but my memories and gratitude to these kindred souls who spent time with me and my son patiently passing on their well honed skills will never be forgotten.

Broken Fly Rods

Photo Rainbow Trout

Have you ever worn out a fly rod ? I mean have you ever caught so many fish and placed so much strain as to create small stress fractures up and down the tip section that the rod finally fails ? I haven't, ( mine break off in trees, shrubs and get snapped off by tail gates or fall into fire pits).

But my fellow author Fenwick Has!

Fenwick Broke Two Rod Tips While Fishing This Year !

(On Two Seperate Fly Rods)

Photo Rainbow Trout

Please understand, he was not using rods that were too light for the fish he was catching nor does he abuse his rods. In fact he "babies" his rods like they are members of his family. Granted they were older rods, but that is the beauty of the story. They were both old and have some great stories to go with them. The stories and fish took their toll, slowly years of hook setting, bending under the stress of a worthy opponent and continuous flexing ended in catastophic failure. Close examination of the tip revealed the previously unseen stress fractures running up and down the shaft both above and below the compound fracture. Each one of those previously unknown fractures had a hidden story to tell. A story that was not revealed until the end of the life of a fine quality friend.

Momentos Are History

So the next time you think about tossing out a worn out fly or one that has a broken hook. Stop and think about all the history that you would throw away. Just like me, I'll bet you place that momento into a special place in your fly box and learn to appreciate gazing on it's presence when ever you take a moment to reminise in the out of doors. Be sure to leave a note or two for your family about these special warriors and your family will treasure them just as much as you do.

February Fly Fishing In Utah Rainbow Trout Utah Trout

Do You Need Some Motivation To Go
Out In To The Cold ?

Here's Your Cure For Cabin Fever !!!
Photo Utah Rainbow Trout
This morning I am looking at some photo's from a couple of fishing trips me and a friend took about two weeks ago here in Northern Utah. As you can see from the photo's the weather was a little cooler than the January day we were last here. But not so cold as to discourage a pair of hardened fly fishermen.

Photo Utah Rainbow Trout
Successful fishing means you have to keep the flies in front of the fish, no matter what time of year or the weather. However, I do prefer the sunny days over rain and snow. But cabin fever does have a strange affect on fly fishermen and I have been known to be standing in the middle of a river with my fly rod flailing and rain pouring down from the heavens by the bucketful (did I mention the thunder and lightning in the background ???) !

Photo Rainbow Trout Utah.

What a wonderful time and what a great memory ! But enough about rain and back to Winter. This next photo really gets my blood to pumping and if a picture is worth a 1,000 words this next picture says it all...
Photo Utah Rainbow Trout

Oh Yeah !!!!

Now That's What I'm Talking About

No... that is not a football.

It is the shape of a mighty fine trout...

It is a mighty fine trout that is eating so much food he looks like a football ! This is truly the picture of health when you bring in a lunker like this.

So what were we using to make such a successful trip?

Dark green muddler minnows with a gold cone head, size 8 was the ticket for the day. We use 9 foot two piece 3-5 weight fly rods, reels with adjustable drag, floating line, 9 foot tippets, with an additional 2-3 feet of leader and an adjustable strike indicator. If the fish are in cruising mode to feed the indicator shows the line movement long before you feel the tension or "tug" in your fingers, the indicator makes certain you won't miss setting the hook. However, your own response time may allow you to miss one or two...

Secure That Fly

The knot of the day is the polymer. It is not only really strong (I like the double loop going through the eye of the hook for a solid connection) but quick to tie when your fingers are numb from the cold.

The Weight Of The Matter

The gold cone head adds enough weight that you won't need any additional lead on the line to get to the bottom where the muddlers hang out. The muddler of course resembles any number of small fish so even if your trout don't have access to this specific variety, they do know small fish and how to quickly dispose of them.

Presentation Is Everything

Our presentation is to allow the minnow to sink to the bottom, hesitate and then "jig" by moving or raising the rod tip and at the same time stripping about 6 inches of line to create an up and forward motion. This allows the minnow to leave the bottom in an upward angle toward the fisherman and then to fall back to the bottom imitating an injured fish. At least that's what I tell myself. The results speak for themselves. The fish usually grab the fly as it is falling back towards the bottom.

Dress For Success

Be sure to dress in layers since the weather can change quickly and no one wants to be too cold or too hot. Fleece is great for a hoodie, and you will notice this is always my choice. It will repel snow and rain and continue to keep you insulated. Fleece also breathes to help keep you comfortable.

Fleece sweat pants are warm and provide lots of room to move around in when worn under your waders.

These Boots Are Made For Walking...On Ice

Shoes or boots designed for wading work best in snow and water with a metal cleat over the sole. Ice builds up fast and makes a slippery surface on your felt soles so cleats are a must for safety and are inexpensive to purchase. There are several manufactures to choose from. I like the clip on ones, they are fast and easy to attach or detach and don't allow ice to build up and of course they don't slip.

Speaking of your feet, don't forget a good pair of socks. Not cotton either ! Wool or synthetic are the best. Wool will continue to insulate your feet even if they become damp. Synthetic material will wick the moisture away from the skin to help keep you insulated and dry.

Get Fleeced

If a fleece isn't enough on really cold days I add a parka over it with a stocking cap or a pull over hat, similar to a ski mask that will come down around my neck and "tuck" into my shirt. This arrangement keeps my head dry and warm while protecting my neck, front and back, at the same time. The cuffs on my parka are water proof and have an adjustable velcro "grip" around the wrist so I can keep my arms dry while releasing fish in the cold water.

Magic Fingers

I also keep a pair of gloves to put on if I need them. They are the open finger style so I can easily strip line. They also have a "rubber pad palm" to make holding the slippery fish easier while keeping the water off my skin.

Make Sure You See The Light

Remember to take along the sun glasses, preferably polarized combined with U.V. coating, to block ultraviolet light. This will protect your eyes and allow you to see the fish in clear water. Speaking of U.V. keep the sunblock handy and apply it liberally. You will still get sunburned in the winter on sunny days so be prepared.

What You See Is What Everyone Will See

My camera is my cell phone. I never leave home without it. Even though many of the area's I go to don't have cell service the camera always works ! I keep it in a zip lock baggie in my front pocket so it is kept dry and readily available. Be sure to preserve some photo's with your memories and no one will ever doubt just how big the fish are that you are catching !

Plan "B"

Last but not least, pack a spare change of clothes and shoes. Over the years I have pulled a number of my fishing party from the water and even fallen in once or twice myself. There is nothing better than having an extra set of dry clothing to put on, especially in the winter to make a bad situation feel a whole lot better. Besides, it beats driving home cold and soaking wet. I keep the spare clothes tucked away in a gym bag located next to my fishing gear in my Jeep.

What Are You Doing For Winter Fishing ???

Have you got a winter fly fishing memory and photo's to share...let me hear from you and if your story with photo's beats mine, I'll post it (go to the comments section) !!!

Until next time...may you have Tight Lines and quality memories !