Surviving January on the River.

As temperatures drop, snow, ice, and freezing winds are always going to make it difficult. However if you prepare correctly for a day on the river it will really pay off making sure it will be both successful and enjoyable. Here are a few tips for you!

Priority number one: life jacket, sunglasses, and hat. It's essential to take care of yourself. Rivers in winter can be un predictable so watch the conditions and be aware of the areas you are going to fish as rising water and flood condition can change the bottom of the river creating drop offs and loose shingle so always know your way in and out of the river. I always use a wading stick as it allows you to check the depth before you enter and what the river bed is made of. Another great tip is to use the surroundings as a marker for depth and flow so when you start fishing check a rock or plant near the edge of the river and keep an eye on it over the next 5 - 10 minutes to see how the rivers height has changed? You will be able to tell really quickly if the river is rising or dropping so you can make decisions to keep you safe.

So fishing in the freezing cold is not for everyone but making sure you are dressed correctly will enable you to enjoy the weather and keep fishing! We all know you need plenty of layers but remember hot drinks, gloves, spare socks, two hats and keep moving. An absolute game changer is electric hand warmers! keep them in your pockets which keeps you warm and when you need them shove them in your gloves!

Grayling fishing can be like trying to catch a fish when all the elements are against you but when you do its utter perfection. Frozen rod rings, icicles on your waders, numb feet not to mention cold hands make it the ultimate challenge.

Remember the key to Grayling fishing is to not only select the correct weighted flies (especially in January) but to make sure they spend as much time on the river bed as possible. And that you cover the area in a grid not leaving any area un fished. Deep pools are always tempting and fish often do congregate in these areas but don't ignore the rapids and more turbulent water as many a time I have been surprised how shallow fast water can hold big Grayling even in in winter.

If you want to start Grayling fishing in winter give me a shout and I would be happy to share my experience and knowledge nothing beats getting out and exploring new fishing areas on a river.

I have been addicted to fly tying since I was a young boy here are a few flies form the vice over the last few weeks!!! Just trying to get all the boxes full for the new season. Check them all out on my Instagram page.

If you fancy going a fishing a trip in 2026 or learning fly casting get in touch and we will get it organised. All my trips include everything you need for a great day on the water.

For all information check out the website, Instagram and Facebook.

http://www.instagram.com/kingfisherguides/ 

https://www.facebook.com/kingfisherguides

Cheers JJ