In “Fishing a Small Mountain Creek in Mid-Winter! (Tenkara Fly Fishing),” the video showcases the host fishing a mountain creek in mid-winter using the tenkara fly fishing technique. Despite having low expectations, the fishing experience turns out to be surprisingly great. Filmed in Utah in mid-February 2023, the host utilizes 7- and 9-foot level lines, size 12 yarn futsu kebari flies, and a medium measure net with a rubberized net bag. They recommend the Max Catch Triple Zoom rod for its affordability and quality. Throughout the video, the host catches a total of 10 fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and possibly brook trout, and expresses their excitement for future fishing adventures in 2023.
Overview of Tenkara Fly Fishing
Table of Contents
Tenkara fly fishing is a technique that originated in Japan and has gained popularity worldwide. It is a simple and minimalist approach to fly fishing that focuses on using a long, telescoping rod, fixed line, and a single fly. The fundamentals of tenkara fly fishing involve casting the line and fly onto the water’s surface, allowing it to drift naturally, and enticing fish to strike. This technique eliminates the need for complicated fly lines, reels, and heavy equipment, making it a favorite among anglers looking for a more straightforward and immersive fishing experience.
Advantages of Tenkara Fly Fishing over Other Techniques
One of the primary advantages of tenkara fly fishing is its efficiency and effectiveness in small streams and creeks. The long, telescoping rod allows anglers to cast their line accurately into tight spaces and present their fly naturally to fish. The simplicity of the equipment also means that there are fewer moving parts to break or tangle, decreasing the chance of equipment failure and frustration on the water.
Additionally, tenkara fly fishing offers a more intimate and engaging fishing experience. With the absence of a reel, anglers have direct control and connection to the fish they are targeting. This hands-on approach enhances the sensory experience of fishing, allowing anglers to feel every movement and take of the fish. It also encourages a more mindful and patient approach to fishing, as anglers must carefully observe their surroundings and read the water to increase their chances of success.
Common Challenges Faced in Tenkara Fly Fishing
While tenkara fly fishing offers numerous advantages, it is not without its challenges. One common challenge is adjusting to the different casting and presentation techniques required. The long, flexible rod and fixed line require anglers to develop a unique casting motion and timing to deliver the fly accurately. It may take some practice and experimentation to find the optimal casting technique for different fishing scenarios.
Another challenge is adapting to varying water conditions. Tenkara fly fishing is most effective in small streams and creeks, where fish are more easily approached and targeted. However, fishing in these environments can present obstacles such as overhanging vegetation, tight spaces, and fast-flowing currents. Anglers must learn to navigate these challenges, adapt their techniques accordingly, and approach fishing spots stealthily to increase their chances of success.
Setting the Scene: Mid-Winter Mountain Creek Fishing
The fishing adventure takes place in mid-winter in a mountain creek in Utah. This time of year typically brings colder weather and icy conditions, leading to low expectations for a successful fishing trip. However, despite these initial reservations, the fishing turns out to be unexpectedly great, offering a pleasant surprise to the angler.
Location and Time of Year for the Fishing Adventure
The fishing adventure takes place in mid-February 2023 in Utah. Mid-winter in this region often brings harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. These conditions create unique challenges for anglers but also provide an opportunity for a peaceful and solitary fishing experience in the serenity of nature.
Reasons for Low Expectations Initially
The angler had low expectations for the fishing trip primarily due to the challenging winter conditions. Winter fishing can be tricky, even for experienced anglers. Cold water temperatures and reduced fish feeding activity can make it more difficult to entice strikes. Additionally, the angler’s previous experience in the same creek, albeit in a different section, may have influenced their expectations. However, the angler remained hopeful and open to the possibility of a successful fishing adventure.
Surprising Results of the Fishing Trip
Contrary to the low expectations, the fishing trip turned out to be surprisingly fruitful. The angler managed to catch several fish throughout the day, including both rainbow and brown trout. The success of the trip highlights the effectiveness of tenkara fly fishing even in challenging winter conditions. It also demonstrates the importance of persistence and adaptability in fishing, as the angler was rewarded for their efforts despite initial doubts.
Essential Gear for Mid-Winter Fishing
To tackle the challenges of mid-winter fishing, the angler utilized specific gear tailored to the conditions and fishing technique. The gear includes a 7- and 9-foot level line, which allows for accurate casting and line control in small streams. These level lines provide the necessary sensitivity and control needed for successful tenkara fly fishing in winter conditions.
The angler also used size 12 yarn futsu kebari flies. These flies mimic the appearance and movement of insect larvae commonly found in creeks, making them an effective choice for enticing fish during cold months. The angler’s selection of the appropriate fly pattern is crucial in winter fishing when fish are more selective in their feeding habits.
Furthermore, the angler utilized a medium measure net with a rubberized bag. This net is essential for safely landing and handling fish while minimizing harm to the fish’s delicate scales and skin. The rubberized bag also prevents the fly from becoming entangled in the net, making for a smoother and more efficient fishing experience.
The angler introduced the Max Catch Triple Zoom rod, which is recommended for its affordability and quality. This versatile rod allows anglers to adjust its length to suit different fishing scenarios, providing flexibility and adaptability on the water. Its affordability makes it an excellent option for novice anglers or anyone interested in exploring tenkara fly fishing without breaking the bank.
Winter Fishing Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Winter fishing poses several inherent challenges, but with the right approach, they can be overcome. One of the main challenges of winter fishing is the cold weather, which can make fishing uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. To address this challenge, the angler wore special gloves designed for cold weather fishing. These gloves offer a balance between warmth and dexterity, allowing anglers to maintain their grip and control while protecting their hands from the cold.
Another challenge of winter fishing is finding suitable fishing spots with open water and relatively low ice. In this specific creek, the angler discovered that the open water and minimal ice made it an optimal winter fishing spot. The angler’s awareness of these unique conditions and their decision to explore this particular location contributed to the success of the fishing trip.
Fishes in the Creek: Species and Sizes
The mountain creek where the fishing took place is home to various fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and possibly brook trout. The angler’s goal was to catch at least two fish during the trip.
The first fish caught was a 13.5-inch rainbow trout. Its size and vibrant colors made it a remarkable catch and an exciting way to start the angler’s fishing year. Throughout the trip, the angler continued to catch more brown and rainbow trout, each with its unique characteristics and size.
Detailed account of other fishes caught
In addition to the 13.5-inch rainbow trout, the angler successfully caught several other fish during the fishing trip. These included brown trout ranging in size from six inches to an average of about 12 inches in length. The brown trout displayed their signature reddish spots, contributing to their overall beauty and appeal.
The focused and persistent efforts of the angler paid off, enabling them to catch multiple fish throughout the trip. Each catch added to the angler’s excitement and provided opportunities for further exploration and discovery on the creek.
Measurement of the Second Fish
The second fish caught during the fishing trip turned out to be a brown trout, initially thought to be a brook trout due to its dark coloration. Upon closer inspection, the angler determined that it was, in fact, a brown trout. Its size and distinct red spots confirmed its classification as a brown trout.
This second catch further added to the angler’s fishing achievement and marked the beginning of a successful run of catches during the middle portion of the fishing trip.
Tips and Techniques for Successful Catch
To achieve a successful catch, the angler employed various strategies throughout the fishing trip. The switch to a 9-foot line with a different fly proved to be a beneficial technique for enticing fish to strike. This adjustment in gear and presentation provided a new opportunity to target and engage fish in different areas of the creek.
Persistence was another key aspect of the angler’s approach to fishing. Despite initial challenges and slow fishing at the beginning of the trip, the angler remained determined and patient. This persistence ultimately paid off as the angler started catching fish consecutively during the middle section of the fishing adventure.
The Key Role of the Fishing Spot
The accessibility and location of the fishing spot played a crucial role in the success of the fishing trip. The chosen spot was easily accessible, located near a road, which allowed the angler to reach the fishing spot quickly and conveniently. This proximity to the road makes it easier to transport gear and navigate the fishing area throughout the day.
The angler also mentioned the potential for exploring other fishing spots within the same location. This curiosity and eagerness to venture into new areas further enhance the angler’s fishing experience and open up possibilities for future adventures.
Promotion and Recommendations
The angler took the opportunity to promote and recommend specific products and resources that contributed to their fishing success. They highlighted the Max Catch Triple Zoom rod for its versatility and affordability. This rod recommendation provides viewers with a reliable option to consider when choosing their own fishing gear.
Another recommendation made was for the online store Myflytyingyarn.com. This store offers a range of fly tying yarns, catering to the needs of anglers interested in customization and personalization of their fishing flies. The angler’s positive experience with this online store encourages viewers to explore it for their own fly tying needs.
The angler also invited viewers to subscribe to their channel for future content. By subscribing, viewers can stay informed and engaged with the angler’s fishing adventures and learn from their experiences on the water.
Fishing Achievement Recap
The fishing adventure resulted in the angler catching a total of 10 fish. These catches occurred throughout the two-hour duration of the trip, with a varying time span between each catch. The first fish took approximately 45 minutes to catch. However, the other eight fish were caught consecutively during the middle section of the fishing adventure. The last fish took approximately 20-25 minutes to catch, contributing to a successful and rewarding fishing achievement overall.
Conclusion: Reflections and Future Plans
As the fishing trip comes to a close, the angler reflects on their accomplishments and expresses excitement about future fishing plans for 2023. The success of the mid-winter fishing adventure serves as a source of motivation and anticipation for upcoming fishing expeditions.
The angler encourages viewers to follow their future fishing adventures by subscribing to their channel. The channel offers a platform for anglers and fishing enthusiasts to stay connected, learn from each other, and share experiences.
Additionally, the angler mentions their online store, Myflytyingyarn.com, as a resource for fly tying materials. This resource provides viewers with an avenue to explore their creativity and enhance their fishing flies.
For viewers interested in non-fishing adventures, the angler mentions their other YouTube channel called SUV rving. This channel offers a separate platform for sharing non-fishing-related experiences and content.
Links to all the mentioned resources, including the recommended Max Catch Triple Zoom rod and Myflytyingyarn.com, will be provided in the video description, allowing viewers to access and explore these resources effortlessly.