Frying Pan Piggies

Taylor Creek Fly Shop manager, Will Sands, fished the Frying Pan on Tuesday with Nick Williams from http://www.flycurrents.com/ and http://www.flycurrents.blogspot.com/. They set out with one goal in mind. Head-hunting some big fish. Head-hunting generally involves sight fishing the river and only casting to big fish. You generally don't catch many fish, but the rewards are often worth it as you can see by the picture. There's no doubt that the Frying Pan River holds some of the largest trout in the Rockies and are infamous for being highly educated and picky. Hiring a knowledgable local guide makes a world of a difference when it comes to technical fisheries like the Pan. They take you to the best water, with the right flies, and educate you on all aspects of fly fishing and often become lifelong friends on and off the water. Winter is the ideal time of year to head hunt these large fish as they feed more freely and openly due in large part to having such less in the way of fishing pressure. Basically more fish per angler. Some key flies you'll want to have in your fly box include: Flashtail Mini Eggs, Epoxy Mysis, Capt. Hooks, Medallion Midges, Jujubees, TC Red Midge, PT's and RS2's. Don't forget a pair of good polarized sunglasses, layering your clothing to regulate body temperature and it never hurts to fish with a partner to help you spot and locate some piggies! We hope you are able to make it out this winter. Poke your head in the shop and we'll be happy to dial you in or set you up with one our talented guides. -Kirk Webb-

photo courtesy of Nick Williams