Current Conditions:
The lower can be a great mid-winter fishery when the weather is on the mild side and the wind forecast is tame. During or just after a cold snap there will be slush in the water that can make fishing tough and wind can rip through Bear Trap Canyon. The trout are all in the slower and deeper runs so make sure to stop and work this type of water. Most of the faster riffles will be devoid of trout. Float fishing isn't as productive but using a boat to hop from run to run isn't a bad idea if boat ramps and parking lots are accessible. Nyphing is the best option but slow stripping streamers can also produce. For nymphs something big on top is still a good idea and options include a sculpin, crayfish, yuk bug, or San Juan worm. Smaller pattern options for a dropper include small pink lighting bugs, cdc baetis nymphs, pheasant tails, and egg patterns. Some dry fly action on midges can also be an option on mild days, especially closer to Bear Trap. Big cold snaps have started to arrive and when sub zero temps hit, the river slushes up and it becomes tough to fish.
The Months Ahead:
The Lower fishes well most of the winter as long as we are not experiencing an arctic blast. Severe cold snaps can send slush down the river and the wind can really howl on some days so checking the wind forecast is always a good idea.