Except for the hardy few of us who go after steelhead through the winter months, or those who can afford to fly fish in some exotic destination further south (be it in the southern States or in Argentia or even New Zealand chasing trout, or going after tarpon or bonefish in the Caribbean), there are many fly fishers who find themselves with too much time on their hands, especially here in Canada. Once the snow flies they hibernate until the opening day of trout season (April 25th next year in Ontario -- already on my calendar). But there is so much more that can be done. There are all sorts of great books on fly fishing, as well as DVDs. One can learn how to tie flies, or if very gung-ho even try building a rod. There are fly fishing clubs that meet during the winter months, usually twice a month. These are great places to meet other fly fishers and learn how to tie flies. The local fly shop has the newest equipment in by the beginning of the year -- one could flex a fly rod or two in anticipation of the next purchase, even try on new waders or fishing vests. Or buy fly tying materials after taking a fly tying course from the shop. The fly fishing shows and forums are another good way to scratch the fly fishing itch -- there are usually well-known authorities on all things to do with fly fishing present. One can start to plan for the coming year's trips, going over maps. The Internet has a multitude of possibilities, including the various fly fishing forums, or even fly tying forums. Not to mention blogs to feed the fly fishing habit almost daily. These are just some suggestions. So, unless you have taken to standing in your bathtub with your waders on holding onto your fly rod, with the water running so as to sound like a rushing river, then there is still hope for you. Now you'll have to excuse me -- I've got to practise my casting -- almost got that rubber ducky the last time. You know if I close my eyes it really does almost seem like I'm wading the river. Except for all the soap suds (multi-tasking whenever I can, don't you know!!!!).
Tight Lines,
Mike

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"Fly fishing is solitary, contemplative, misanthropic, scientific in some hands, poetic in others, and laced with aesthetic considerations. It's not even clear if catching fish is actually the point." -John Gierach

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