The drive into Pisgah National Forest is beginning to look dark and grey. The bright colors of Fall in North Carolina are no more. Time to take it down a notch in the trout world. Browns are going to start spawning any day now, which means its time to target the hungry bows on Blue Wing Olives, midges and Small Stones. We have had a great long Fall, but its officially time to slow it down. Slowing down is what makes Fly Fishing in North Carolina so good in my opinion. I always tell my clients “the slower you fish the better you’ll fish.” Numbers and size isn’t what’s important at the end of the day. The perfect winter day consist of a dry fly rod and warm clothes, and lots and lots of coffee. As we roll into the hole we begin to see blue wings dancing their way down stream. You’ll notice all the fish rising at once. This alone is worth the trip even with out a fly pole. Watching fish rise in a dark quiet hole will give you even more chills than the cold water numbing your toes. If you look around it may just be us laughing at each other, arguing on what type of Blue Wing pattern they want. These are the fun times on the river, and always seem to be a little more peaceful than all the other seasons in Pisgah. We enjoy winter more than any other season just because to me, it’s what makes this sport “cool”. The water is gin-clear, and fish will be eager to eat when temps begin to rise for the day. No need for 100 fish days. Why catch a 100 fish? Is one not enough? We can beat the dog piss out of a river, or we can go work a rising pod, and get the same results. Technique is what’s important in the winter, and if we continue to work on our drifts we will be successful. Remember to slow down and enjoy the peace and quiet. We need to also keep in mind that the spawn will end eventually, but the Redds will sill be around. Stay away from clean gravel while wading because those are your future blue wing risers in those rocks. Just remember, it is not ok to cast to spawning trout. Pisgah National Forest is a special place, and we need to keep it that way by caring and sharing our knowledge as anglers. Days usually start later in the morning and end early. We recommend always having an extra pair of clothes just in case someone takes as spill. Coffee should be topped off before we head to the river, and flies should be dressed and ready for the next bite. One thing 2020 hasn’t completely taken from us is angling. Give us a call, and get out there and enjoy the PUBLIC WATER with us as we Slow It Down.

Time To Slow It Down

Spawning Fish

Come On!!!