The thaw is coming, reconnecting with the southwestern Ohio fishing community.
A cold snowy February is finally showing signs of warmth. That familiar excitement is bubbling up -the spring bite is right around the corner. Lately February has been a month of reconnection with old friends and rekindling relationships within the community. I can truly say, fly fishing is stronger than ever in the southwestern, Ohio region.
Back in the mix I had the privilege of showcasing Dayton as a fly fishing destination at the Buckeye United Fly Fishing show. I heard one question more than any other: “Parker where have you been?” My answer? Simple. “Fishing!” If the show is news to you, mark your calendars for the first weekend of February. Its a fantastic gathering of guides, shops, non-profits, and artists. The best way to meet new folks and support vendors locally and regionally. One new vendor that piqued my interest Road River and Trails – they have a great concept going on down in Cincinnati; definitely worth looking at.
Mid month was the Gem City Tour. I was honored to be the guest speaker to Miami Valley Fly Fishers, MVFF and then a week later to the Buckeye United Fly Fishers, BUFF. My Ted Talk was titled Gem City Gold: Dayton Fly Fishing Destination? If you were a member and heard the speech, my intent was to give locals a renewed sense of pride in our home waters. I believe we have exceptional fishing in Dayton including fishing Mad River trout, smallmouth, Caesar Creek musky, white bass runs, Little Miami Gar, and carp to name a few expeditions. All based around the idea that Dayton and surrounding areas protect, conserve, and allow access to our waterways better than most.
February Fishing Report
The Mad River Trout
As of February 20th, the river is running high and flooded. However, keep an eye on the gauges—give it a couple of days, especially if you’re angling north of Urbana.
- Tactics: The water is still chilly, but trout are becoming active under the warming sun. Most success is coming on nymphs. Use tungsten to get deep into the pockets, trailing a non-weighted dropper.
- The Hatch: Midges are still the primary game, but the Little Black Stoneflies should start popping in early March. I’m currently at the vise tying size 20-22 Adams to mimic them.
- Streamer Junkies: Wait for the CFS charts to show a downward trend, then target the deeper runs from Urbana south. I’m reaching for olive/white, rusty brown with flash, or solid black. This is the time of year to break out the intermediate line and articulated flies with plenty of marabou or rabbit tail.
Smallmouth Bass
While I’ve been focusing on trout lately, my good friend Newport—easily one of the best smallmouth anglers in the area—has been absolutely crushing it.
- Newport’s Hot Tip: Don’t let the warm air fool you; the water is still cold. You have to get the fly to the bottom.
- The Rig: Use sinking lines to fish jig-style flies, like the Meat Whistle, very slowly. His “secret sauce”? Make sure your flies have some orange or fluorescent legs to trigger those lethargic winter strikes.
Let’s Get on the Water
If you’re looking to shake off the winter blues, I am slowly filling up my calendar for March and have a few dates left in April. Reach out soon to book a guided trip! Good luck out there in the late winter chill.
— Parker
