Winter fishing

January 17, 2025

BY PAT CHAMBERS

One of the great things about the Fall River in Central Oregon is that it stays open to fly fishing all year long. There are a lot of fish in the river throughout the winter. You will not run into the crowds you might see in the summer, too. Everyday there will be a Blue Wing Olive hatch, around noon. You will notice little black Stone Flies on the snow and they are a good dry fly to use as well. Dry fly fishing can be very productive during the hatches, while nymphing is productive all day long.

I am constantly finding new flies that produce fish, but I always keep a few confidence flies on me. My Eggstacy Egg, Swimming Nymph and Big Orange Fly are constant producers.

Be prepared for wind, snow, rain and ice. Dress warmly and wear good cleats on your shoes - as ice is treacherous. Just get out there and enjoy great winter fishing and land some nice trout!