Cold Winters, Fly Tying, and Upcoming Fly Fishing Shows

Winter in central Iowa can be pretty bleak for the fly angler. Limited open-water opportunities exist, and the fishing is usually very very slow, for fly fishermen during this harsh winter months; but do not fear. There are ways to pass the time in preparation for next season.

An Iowa Driftless Brown Trout

If you get the opportunity to spend some time in the Driftless region this winter, there is some great solitude to be found along with very productive trout water. Small flies, deep holes, and sunny days are things you ought to be looking for if you choose to brave the cold. Be sure to take a buddy along and keep those extremities warm by taking breaks when necessary to warm up.

Fly tying can help pass the time in the cold months.

Tying flies is a way to get the creative juices flowing and pass the time when the Iowa wind is too harsh to be in for more than 10 seconds. Go through those old fly boxes, clean them up from last season, and replenish what has been lost. If you don't tie, be sure to check in with Rod & Rivet to get restocked for the next season.

Finally, something else that passes the time is the social side of fly fishing is attending community events with other anglers. Being involved in fly fishing shows and sportsmen’s expos around the Midwest helps pass the time and increase the hype heading into next season.

Get in touch with us about a float trip next season.

Here are some upcoming shows we are keeping an eye on:

1. Hawkeye Fly Fishing Show (Feb 21-23)- this year the show is in Coralville, Iowa, a

2. Midwest Bassmasters Swap Meet & Boat Show (Des Moines, IA, Feb 22-23)- If you’re looking for a large show with lots of vendor variety, this is a great one. While fly fishing vendors are limited (we will be there, along with Trout Unlimited and possibly one or two others), this is a fun show for all ages.

3. Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo (Mar 21-23, St Paul, MN) - One of the biggest, if not the biggest, fly fishing shows in the Midwest. We won’t be there this year, but it sounds like there will be yet another great show up north this March.

4. Fly Fishing Film Tour (March 8, Des Moines, IA) This is a really fun event with incredible fly fishing cinematography, giveaways, and raffles.

If you are able to attend any of these shows, we hope you branch out and meet some people and learn some things at this show. Come say hello to us at the Iowa shows!

Tight lines, hope to see you on the water.