January Flies:

January stillwater fishing in the UK is typically defined by cold water temperatures, slow fish movement, and a strong reliance on subsurface food sources.

At this time of year, insect hatches on stillwaters are extremely limited. Any surface activity is rare and highly weather-dependent, making blind dry-fly fishing an unreliable approach in most conditions.

The most consistent food sources through January are those that remain active year-round. Bloodworm is a primary staple in many stillwaters and often accounts for the majority of takes during winter.

But we have found that Buzzers, lures, and Egg flies are the best options when it’s cold, with buzzers and egg flies suspended under a bung/indactor resulting in our best catches.

Dry flies are not to be ignored in winter; especially on milder winter days, try some of the tips below.