Beck Brooks
With the mix of milder weather this past week followed by snow throughout the valley and the early opening on the mountain, we are blessed with a variety of activities to choose from. It’s always amazing to most visitors that spend much of their time planning the day around mountain activities to conceive of winter fly fishing. Many locals anticipate sneaking in a few great runs in the morning and spending a couple of hours catching trout in the afternoon. Even at this time of year, local anglers and guides relish the opportunity to catch a mid-valley day approaching 40 degrees or better and then float fish local rivers. Floating on a balmy winter day is an experience not soon forgotten.
Snow in the forecast is often a sign of great floating and also just good all around fishing conditions to come. Snow and overcast evenings act as an insulator and maintain warmer nightly temperatures much more so than bright cold nights. These warmer nights keep our local river temperatures stable and ideal for a day of angling opportunities. This week fishing opportunities abound throughout the valley equally for wading or floating.
Anglers headed out this week should be focused on fishing the slower, deeper pools wherever they decide to wet a line. Fly selection should comprise mainly midges, some baetis imitations and attractors patterns like copper johns and princes are good lead patterns that can trigger strikes. Stop by your local shop to hook up with a guide or get the latest info on where to be with exactly the right flies. Tis the season soon, so make sure you don’t overlook finding that something special for the angler in your life.
This report is provided every week by Taylor Creek Fly Shops in Aspen and Basalt. Taylor Creek can be reached at 970-927-4374 or taylorcreek.com.
