We survived the onslaught of storms that hit us in January, and we are reaping the benefits in the form of trout filled nets. The inversion layers have lifted and have allowed slightly warmer temps to activate the fish into a bit of a feeding frenzy. Those warmer temps help increase the metabolism of the these pre-spawn cutthroat, and also stimulate bug hatches during certain times of the day that are driving the trout crazy. So what does this all mean for us anglers? Well, simply put, bobbers have been wearing their life jackets a lot less often in recent days.

Midges are a plentiful food source, and rather easy pickings for trout. With the trout’s metabolisms starting to ramp up again, these tasty little morsels are easy pickings. This is part of the reason the midge bite has significantly picked up in recent weeks, and why hanging midges under a bobber has proven pretty darn effective. You never know what pattern is going to work on any given day, so it would be wise to carry an assortment of sizes and colors that represent the various stages of a chironomids life cycle in your fly box.

Don’t discount throwing a streamer or popcorn beetle patterns though; certain times of day this can be an effective method for getting the trouts attention. This hasn’t been the prominent method for results as of late, however the strip game will pick up in the weeks to come as the fish close in on spawning season. Almost immediately prior to spawn and post spawn you will see some aggressive and reactionary behavior from Pilot’s and Summit’s that highlights their anadromous traits. This is a great time to throw different streamer and beetle patterns, and make sure you are ready for the hits as they will take your presentation like a freight train at times.

February is already shaping up to be a great month, and our anticipation of seeing an increase of trophy sized trout is already coming to fruition. Big fish traditionally seem to trend towards cruising the shorelines this time of year, so it’s a great month to get out and wet a line. We have a handful of open slots available in February, so if you have been searching for the opportunity to come out to experience the thrill of fishing for “The World’s Largest Cutthroat Trout”, well, there’s no better time than now! Give us a call at 877.732.3597 and join us on the water for an experience of a lifetime. LET’S GO!!!