Mach 3, 2021
Hey Guys! Here’s a quick description of my favorite gear to fish with in the winter months and heading into the spring.
First, the rods I use! Typically you will find me carrying 2 rods because i’m lazy and don’t feel like re rigging when the day calls for it. My first rod is a 10ft 3wt or a 10.5ft 3wt Sage ESN. I picked the Sage ESN as my go to Euro rod because it is very light and very responsive. When my hands and fingers are struggling to work in the cold, I can still detect a strike. The difference in length usually depends on where i’m fishing and if I need that extra little bit of length.
My second rod is a 9ft 4wt Orvis Helios 3F. I carry this rod almost exclusively for a dry fly bite. If you are lucky enough to find a riser or 2 in the winter, you have to be prepared. I picked a 4 weight because the flies i’m using are typically very small (18-24) and the tippet to match (5x-7x) so I need a delicate rod to be able to set and play these fish on this lighter tackle.
Second, my pack! I use a Orvis Guide Sling Pack. Its big enough to fit a days worth of flies, terminal tackle, an extra layer, my hot coffee, some snacks, handwarmer, and if i’m gonna have a long day, my jet boil to make more coffee.
Third, my waders and boots! My waders are the Orvis Guide waders. Im not sure they are made anymore but I have had them for 3 years and have yet to have a problem. These waders have been put through hell with me guiding in them, living in them for 9 day float trips on the Grande Ronde, and using them all winter long. My boots are Simms G3’s that have also lasted a very long time. They have great ankle support and are very grippy to most river bottoms. Both my waders and boots are getting pretty old and will probably be upgraded within the year.
Come by next week and i’ll start to discuss my tactics going into the spring!
As always, if you have any questions or want to talk about a trip for the summer, feel free to reach out anytime. 307-264-0785 or byron@flyguidebyron.com
–Byron
Fly Guide Byron 