In my part of the world, the mid winter blues are setting in. Although the days are beginning to get longer, most of us are stuck with the prospects of another 4 to 6 weeks of winter and temperatures mostly below the freezing mark. Rivers are still closed other than Great Lake tributaries where some angling is possible at the mouths. But, practically, unless an angler wants to drill some holes through ice and brave the cold or spend some money renting a heated hut sitting on top of several inches of ice to drop a line, anglers get a double dose of the winter blues.
It is true that Ice Fishing can be fun, as About.Com Freshwater Fishing Guide Ronnie Garrison writes, but for most fly anglers it could never come close to the real thing! I suppose I could try jigging a Mickey Finn.
For me, what really makes the fly fishing itch stronger is the knowledge that in the southern hemisphere, there are people who can go fishing right now. I want to join them. But this winter, I cannot.
For some, tying new fly patterns helps to sooth the itch. For others, building a new custom rod provides some relief. Browsing the new line ups for the coming year from the rod and blank manufacturers can also work like a miracle salve temporarily. But of course, there is nothing that can take the place of that first spring cast with heightened anticipation.
One of the worst things I do and guaranteed to increase the mid winter blues is read about the places where fly fishing is available right now. Of course, I am not at that place. But then there is always next winter and perhaps an opportunity to fish Patagonia:
Argentina
Patagonia Expeditions reports on why this scenic part of the world is such a desirable fly fishing destination. According to their information, Butch Cassidy sought refuge in Patagonia and was impressed by its beauty. Did he fly fish the Rio Corcovado or Rio Palena?
If you are intrigued with the idea of angling in the Andes, Fox Tour also offers guided trips lasting 7 days. Perhaps the El Palenque Ranch may just be the ticket to chase the winter blues! Luis Sier Safaris caters to both fly anglers as well as bird hunters in Argentina and Chile.
You may want to consider visiting the Fly Masters Fly Shop located in Bariloche. The El Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi site is not in English, but it certainly is worthwhile visiting for the photographs of the area.
Chile
Feutaleufa Lodge offers several fly fishing options including access to remote areas by horseback.
Jack Trout normally guides on the Upper Sacramento & McCloud Rivers of California, but also offers what he calls his Jurassic Trout trip which features 6 different rivers in one week.
Previous
Features