Late fall and winter can be productive for stream fishing

People may see anglers wading streams during frigid weather and wonder "what are they doing?" The short answer is probably catching fish.

Late-fall and winter fishing are often overlooked on Idaho's rivers and streams because many people don't want to deal with the cold, but trout and whitefish remain fairly active. In fact, late-season fishing has some advantages because many streams are at their lowest levels and fish are concentrated. Many rivers are also nearly empty of anglers, so you get your pick of prime fishing spots.

Find the right river or stream

Spring-fed rivers and streams, and those fed by dam releases often fish well during winter months because temperatures tend to be slightly warmer and more stable. 

Rainbow trout are a favorite winter quarry, and where you find them, you will often find whitefish. Whitefish school up in the fall and typically spawn in November, so where you catch one, you're likely to find more. (Read more about catching whitefish.) You will find trout and whitefish in similar places you find them other times of year, but in late season, they often favor deeper, slower water, although you can still catch them in riffles as well.

Also remember that while fish remain active during winter, they're still cold-blooded, and they may be a little sluggish. They're unlikely to aggressively chase food, but they will take it, or a good imitation of it, when it's placed in front of them.

Tweak your techniques

Winter fishing doesn't require any special tactics, just figure out where the fish are and what they're likely to be feeding on. Drifting bait or fly fishing with nymphs are often your best tactics. If you see dimples on the water, it may be fish rising to feed on insects, which will likely be tiny midges or mayflies, and fish will rise to a well-presented dry fly. 

Try different sections of the river and try to figure out where fish are holding and feeding. After you catch a fish, seek out similar water, but remember, fish may move around during the day. But where you find them one day during winter, they're likely to remain nearby, so keep those places in mind when you return. 

Fly anglers should not overlook streamers. They can look like a big, easy meal when presented slowly, but don't expect trout to vigorously chase them like during summer. Even dead drifting a streamer can be effective. 

Fish spook easily in low, clear water, so be stealthy. Walk softly, don't immediately wade into the middle of a fishing hole, and wear drab colors. Repeatedly cast into likely looking water before moving on. You may be surprised that you can catch multiple fish in a fairly small area, so cast and drift (or slowly retrieve) your bait or fly numerous times before moving to the next spot.

To find places to fish, check Fish and Game's Fishing Planner. While many of Idaho's waters are open to fishing year round, some are limited to catch-and-release fishing during winter, so double check the regulations. 

Here are late-season fishing tips:

• Sleep in: There's rarely a need to be there at first light. You will usually have better fishing late morning to early afternoon when the water warms a few degrees.
• Stay close to home: Winter is a good time to explore your local trout fisheries, or rediscover them.
• Plan short trips: There's no getting around the effects of cold weather, and eventually it will take its toll. Plan to fish for an hour or two and call it good. If you can last longer, consider it a bonus.
• Bring hand warmers: Your hands are most likely to get wet, and they can easily get chilled. A hand warmer will quickly rewarm them. An extra pair of gloves is also a good idea because one pair usually gets wet.
• Think about traction: Rocks are slippery when wet, and more slippery when icy. Wading boots with cleats are a good option. It's also good to have a set of dry clothes in your vehicle in case you take an unexpected plunge.
• Keep your feet warm: Probably goes without saying, but you may be wading in water that's barely above freezing, so wear thick socks or two pairs. If your feet get cold, you will be uncomfortable. You can also use chemically heated insoles in your boots or waders.
• See it as adventure: Things will look and feel different, but the trip will be rewarding if you appreciate those differences. Catching a few fish never hurts, either.