We have had a good ol fashion January. Average temperature and snow fall has made for a winter wonderland. All winter sports are at peck right now. I went skiing at smugglers notch yesterday and enjoyed 4 fresh inches of snow over night and another 4 during my ski. Friends have been getting out on the ice. They’re reporting 10” of ice in most places and good success of perch, walleye and pike.
River fly fishing is mostly a no go. Even the die hard are having a hard time finding open water that they can safely access and fish. I did see a video of a guy taking big chances to land a nice brown in unsafe icy conditions. Winter river fishing can be fun and productive, but safety is a big consideration. If you want to learn the ropes to river fish have someone with experience go with you 1st time.
For the time being, the best thing to do is sit at a vise, by a wood stove, a glass of WhistlePig,and twist up some flies. During the winter our guides get together to tie flys for the upcoming season. Occasionally, we go to a local establishment to break bread, talk fishing over a couple beer and grub some good food. Last Wednesday we took up residence at Black Flannel Brewery in EssexVermont.