Mo Report: 1.16.15
Winter has been losing its grip this week. Temps have warmed and the Chinook Winds are roaring along the Rocky Mountain Front and out across the plains. I’m also seeing the sunrise on the way to work, confirming that the earth is tilting toward longer days.
How about the fishing? I talked to a Canadian gentleman who had some great swinging above Craig this week. He was running the Kreelex and some Polar Minnows along with a few leechy patterns in sizes 6 and 8. He had a big smile on his face and was bummed to be driving back to Calgary. A little wind does not mess up the swinging opportunities. Especially if you pick the right water.
Nick from the store got out in town on Wednesday. He found some trout and hooked a big carp. The carp are congregating at the springs right now and will likely be packed in there until the main river starts warming. They are not often easy to catch in winter, but it can be very fun to try and feed them.
We had reports of some strong midge hatches this week. I don’t know if anyone was chasing those midging trout, but from now on, you will want to have that light rod ready for action. Larvae, pupa, emergers and dries are on the daily menu for Missouri River trout.
The usual pink and fire bead suspects will get you into fish on the drift. Just make sure you are fishing slow moving water. At 34.5 degrees, fish are not feeding in fast flows. Think casual walking speed to barely moving water. Don’t be afraid to slowly pull your flies through the slack stuff either. Make it real easy for those fish to catch what you are serving up.
If you want happy feet, consider some boot foot waders. I’ve been wearing Simms Bootfoots for the past two seasons and my feet are loving life and I’m enjoying winter fishing lots more. If you have stocking foots, make sure you have quality insulated socks and slip your foot into a plastic bag grocery before you pull on your waders. Trust me, it helps.
Stop by for the shop tomorrow around 9am for free coffee and plenty of fishing flap with our Saturday Coffee Crew. Mike’s bringing the donuts.