Classic Flies for the Winter Trout Season

The special winter trout season is now upon us here in Minnesota.  Whimsically, I hit the stream today in below zero temperatures however without my favorite winter flies (those are up North… along with my 5 weight nymphing rod).  But, I gave it a go anyways finding a short 4 weight I had leaning against a bookcase.  For flies, I rummaged up a handful of tiny, but heavy, Copper Johns that were laying around near the fly-tying vise (my non-toxic shot is up North, too).

Arriving at the creek, the water was low and clear like vodka.  The trout insanely spooky.  Each crunch of snow underfoot, even the slightest careful shuffle, sent 10-12 inch browns into a manic state--dashing about pools and runs in disorganized formations like geese flying without their flock leader.  This meant I needed to go stealth and use my best micro winter trout flies.  Unfortunately, I was without them to no fault of my own (my crazy impulses to go fishing today...).  Don't be that guy.  Here are some classic ties every winter angler shouldn't be without.


Point Flies
I like to fish these Size 16; but, depending on conditions and your dropper you may want to go up or down a size.


Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear Nymph from Tightline Productions on Vimeo.


American Pheasant Tail Nymph from Tightline Productions on Vimeo.


Prince Nymph from Tightline Productions on Vimeo.


Simple Scud from Tightline Productions on Vimeo.


Droppers
Sizes 18-22 seems to work just fine.  The same flies noted above work as droppers so long as they're down-sized within range.


Brassie from Tightline Productions on Vimeo.


Serendipity from Tightline Productions on Vimeo.


Needless to say, when I returned home from a good arse kicking on the stream today I poured a double Irish Whiskey, pressed some hot coffee, and hit the tying bench.  It's days like these that serve as wake-up calls.  Like the Eagles getting beat by the lowly Vikings late in the season, I'm now shaken and ready to string some good games together.  The weather will be nicer Saturday and by then I'll have a proper selection of flies tied up.

A good fly selection will limit the damage done here.  Eliminate your demons by tying good flies and making good casts.