Winter Fly Fishing: What You're Not Doing (But Should Be) with Richard Griggs

Nick and Jason hunting for trout on a snowy December morning.

Most anglers are missing out on fly fishing in the wintertime - too cold, too dark, and seemingly fewer fish make it easy to write off the winter months. But for the adept angler who adjusts tactics for the season, winter can be primetime fishing. 

Recently, we sat down with Richard Griggs, owner and founder of Carolina Mountain Sports in Statesville, NC for his hot takes on winter fly fishing during the coldest time of the year. 

With over two decades of fly shop ownership, and (maybe a few more) decades of fly fishing and outdoor experience, Richard is a go-to for his fly fishing expertise. This month, he’s breaking down for us the winter fly fishing techniques most anglers overlook, and the simple adjustments you could be making to catch more fish.

Q: Is it worth it to fish in the wintertime? If so, what are some advantages of this season?

A: Yes...fishing in the winter can be very productive, even when there is ice on the water.

Fish may be more concentrated in areas due to lower temps; there are likely fewer anglers

competing for stream space; and you can sleep a little later since it's best to allow some time

for the sun to warm the water, even if only slightly.

Q: When you head out in the winter, what are some of the adjustments you make to your

approach?

A: Water may be low and clear and fish could be in the slower, shallow (slightly

warmer?) water near the banks. Consider casting before getting right on the edge. Fish first

those areas near the bank; and walk softly as you approach slow, calm, clear areas of the

stream. And, as always, it may be important to maintain a low silhouette to avoid being seen.

Q: What flies do you find yourself relying on most during winter, and why?

All the typical flies work during winter but you may find it important to downsize to 18s

and smaller. Nymphs and midges should be the first choice (maybe a dry fly in rare

circumstances) The typical guidance for winter fly selection is “smaller nymphs and bigger

streamers.” Another one of the many “contradictions” in fly fishing advice. A big streamer

may represent a lot of calories, especially if the fish doesn't have to expend a lot of energy to

eat it.... And, as always, presentation may well be more important than fly pattern selection.

Q: How do you choose where to fish in the winter? What types of water or conditions are

you looking for?

A: The traditional advice is “deep and slow.” Often fish will pod or cluster in the deepest

section of a pool. You may also find them near a spring or seep where the water may be a

few degrees warmer than the rest of the area. But, (another contradiction) they may well be

in slower, shallow water near the banks where temps have risen slightly due to warmth from

the sun.

Q: If someone wants to significantly improve their winter fly fishing, what’s the one piece

of advice you’d give them?

A: Repetition and change. Go fishing often and if you are not

successful change something....depth, presentation, fly size, and stealth in your approach.

Q: What changes do you see in trout behavior during the winter that anglers should pay

more attention to?

A: As water temps lower, fish metabolism slows down. A slow presentation

may be critical They won't move as far to take a fly. And, they may be “huddled” together in

the deepest spot in a pool or run. Thus, it is important to prospect an area thoroughly with

your drifts and depths to get the fly in front of or very near the fish. It is easy to miss a cluster

of fish and believe the area is devoid of trout.

Q: Any last words of wisdom you want to make sure we know? 

A: Overdress in layers of wool and synthetic clothing for the weather.. Extra insulation on

legs and torso help keep feet and hands warmer. Fleece and wool fingerless gloves and mitts can make all the difference, as can warm hats and hoods. Some handwarmer packets in

your jacket pockets can be wonderful. Have a change of dry clothes in your car, along with a

thermos of hot chocolate or soup. Safe wading and on-stream habits become much more

critical for your safety in the winter.

Learn more from Richard Griggs in-person and gear up for winter fly fishing at Carolina Mountain Sports, located at 123 W Broad Street, Statesville, NC 28677. Standard hours are Tue-Fri 11AM-6PM, Sat 9AM-12PM. Hours are subject to change, call ahead to confirm shop is open 704.871.1444.