WINTER TROUT FISHING
Keeping Warm
The cold, wet, windy weather seems to have settled in as we approach the shortest day of the year. Local amateur forecasters are predicting an unusually cold and wintry period beginning just after Christmas. However, let's not allow all this climatological speculation put us off fishing. Get the right clothing, gear that keeps you dry and warm and you can fish all through the Winter months. When I joined Colne Water Angling Club a couple of years ago, the Hon. Sec. offered me some kindly advice: “When you fish our waters make sure you have a warm coat on.” And that was in May!
Many commercial fisheries stay open throughout the year regardless of season and, unless waters ice over, rainbow trout will be tempted to feed on any day of the year. Barnsfold Water Fishery holds an annual competition on Boxing Day and most rods report some success even on days when they have had to break the ice first.
Contact: Barnsfold Fishery 01995 61583
Frozen fingers can be a real problem. If my hands get very cold I begin to lose enthusiasm for fishing. I like those gloves that have fingers that peel back, a bit like peeling a cold banana. As long as hands and fingers are warm enough to cope with tying knots then fishing is no problem.
I always cut my hair short, like Lee Marvin and occasionally, a cold east wind can cause discomfort. I like the “cap-plus” that Raygill Fisheries sell. It comprises a good quality baseball cap in green with fishery logo and with an additional fringe of the same material that attaches around the side and back of the cap and effectively keeps ears and neck nicely warm on cold windy days.
What a collection of hats and caps fishermen acquire; caps of all description from Donegal Tweed to modern waxed. I prefer caps generally because they stay on the head in all conditions. My favourite in high winds is an old black army beret. They stick like glue and you can mould the shape around to offer protection on the windward side. The downside is that passing members of the public pass unflattering comments about Frank Spencer or, in my case, Benny Hill.
Fishing in the Cold
It's a rare day when there is no sign of fish activity and I look for rising fish all the time even on the coldest day. Then you have to walk to where the fish was sighted in order to start presenting the fly. This helps keep the body warm, especially the feet and legs. Thus, it is best to avoid being static on cold days.
If it is cold and still and with a hint of frost I tackle up with a nine foot rod matched to a WF5 floating line and a Maxima 4lb tippet. If the water is very clear I would opt for fluorocarbon and the Fulling Mill is my current favourite. A GRHE nymph on a size 14 hook is as good as anything to make a start, fished with a slow retrieve.
On wilder days I prefer a bigger rod and heavier line with a stronger tippet, say 6lbs and, to start, a slowly fished zonker. Often takes come as the fly flutters down in the water so it pays to keep a careful watch. Mostly a slow retrieve is favoured at this time of the year but speeding up the retrieve to a pattern of short sharp pulls followed by 4 or 5 seconds rest will catch a rainbow. I try the top of the water first and then gradually increase the depth at which the retrieve begins until contact is made with a trout. Take advice from the regulars, they will know from day to day just what is working on that particular water. Buzzers can be great right through the season on some waters but perhaps more effective between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm. The fishery staff or the 'locals' will know what's best.
Last year I caught and netted fish on a dry fly in December and I'm off to the same water tomorrow to try again. The Salmon & Trout Association water at Wharf Lake near Lancaster was restocked a few weeks ago with rainbows between 2 and 6 lbs. Last year they were rising to dry flies during the first week in December and I used a Greenwell's Glory and an Iron Blue Dun, both size 16, to catch and net several good fish.
Members can purchase a special winter ticket for Wharf Lake. It entitles the angler to as many visits as he wants from now until the end of March and to kill one fish per visit. The cost is £40 or members may fish at the usual price of £10 per visit. It's a good water and well worth the price. Phone the secretary on the number below for details of membership and the special Winter ticket.
Contact: The Secretary of the Lancashire Branch 01200 423954
I think that fishing in the dark months of Winter is good fun if you are dressed correctly for the weather. Rainbow trout are there to be caught and it's up to the individual angler to fathom out what pattern and presentation is likely to ensnare them.
Tight Lines!
Eddie Caldwell
