Before the hatch, Armstrong's Spring Creek

If you’re looking for some solid fishing opportunities this winter, the Spring Creeks are hard to beat.  We saw both midges and baetis on the water last weekend, and although rises were sparse we did see a few workable fish.  Unfortunately a lot of the bigger fish are still on redds, but we did see a couple of toads away from the spawn, that looked to be 21-22″ browns.  Each one was patrolling it’s own hole, white mouthing nymphs and actively looking for food.  The bright sun was brutal on our presentations and both of them exploded upon delivery.  Both of them bolted up and down their run a couple times, frantically looking for a moss cave to bury themselves in.  Being out there on such a bright day was definitely tough fishing, but also educational to see just how many big browns there really are in the creeks.  If you are lucky enough to pick you days, try to go on a cloudy week day.  You’ll likely have the creek to yourself and the fishing should be really good no matter how the catching turns out.  Stop by the shop and we can highlight some hot spots for you.  Armstrong’s: 222-2979, Nelson’s: 222-6560, DePuy’s:  222 -0221.