The beginning of 2013 means more than the start of the new year for fly fishing. It also means a myriad of off-water fly fishing activities including TU chapter meetings, fly tying classes, fishing shows, and some early season fly fishing opportunities. Fortunately, the Southern Tier of NY offers anything a fly angler could want on and off the water.
TU monthly meetings begin anew this month. The Al Hazzard TU chapter holds its first monthly meeting of 2013 on Tuesday, January 15. Dave Lemon and Emily Hollweg-Horan from the DEC will be making a very informative presentation on invasive species in the local area, including updates on didymo, Asian clam, hydrilla, and lamprey. They will also provide tips on how to identify these invasives and The Leon Chandler Chapter of TU will not be holding a meeting in January.
Fly tying classes are in full swing now. As mentioned in a previous article, there are a number of classes being offered by TU chapters and local fly shops. In most cases, these classes offer materials and equipment at a nominal charge, or in some cases for free.
Fishing is a winter game. While many ponds and small creeks are iced over, there are still opportunities on larger rivers and streams, such as those feeding the Great Lakes and Finger Lakes. The Great Lakes and Finger Lakes themselves are also good choices. Points, close-to-shore drop-offs, and trib mouths are all good places to take advantage of shore-cruising trout and salmon.
Look for moderation in winter weather for the week ahead. Daytime highs will hover in the mid to upper 30's with lows around the freezing mark. There could be mixed precipitation - snow early in the week and rain towards the weekend. These elevated temps could provide a window for fishing for the hardier fly anglers out there. Sometimes it's good to get out if only to exercise the casting arm.
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