Western NC Fishing Stream Report | Davidson River Outfitters

Stream Report January 13th, 2023

OVERVIEW

Sleep. In, get breakfast, then hit the water. Fishing has been best from about 10 am to 3 pm. Throwing midges, winter stones, small caddis, and small BWO patterns have been our favorites when sight fishing or when we find some suspended fish.

Be sure to call the shop to get the latest river conditions, or you can check the flows HERE.

Check the forecast for our area HERE.

If you have a great day of fishing or catch something special, we want to hear about it! DM us on Instagram or email Jason your report or your day's photo.

DAVIDSON RIVER

Caddis, midges, winter stones, and BWOs seem to be the ticket, while others have found success with sculpins and small crayfish imitations. The first few miles of the Davidson are hatchery supported, while from Avery Creek upstream, the river is regulated as a single hook artificial lures-only river. We have had a relatively warm and wet winter, meaning our typical patterns are a little off. Fishing is still excellent for those willing to slow down and match the hatch. This means fishing flies in the 18-26 range on tippets 6x, and smaller will be the most productive.

DELAYED HARVEST

Delayed Harvest streams have been stocked and will continue to fish well through the winter. Here is a link to the stocking schedule. It is important to remember that many folks love fishing these streams this time of the year, and with that comes an increased impact. Please be a good steward and give other anglers space, practice Leave No Trace and remember there is plenty of fish for everyone. Your best bet here would be to try the “fast food” flies in your box, like eggs, worms, and leeches, before moving to more natural offerings like girdle bugs, sheep flies, and bead head nymphs.

WILD TROUT

Wild Trout fishing is in its typical winter pattern. Attractor Drys (Think Purple Haze, Royal or Orange Stimulator, and Parachute Adams) have been producing and adding a small perdigon or other tungsten beaded nymph as a dropper has been deadly. It is also worth mentioning that fishing midges (18-22) are also a great idea. Again, as the use increases on many of our wild trout streams as we get into the full swing of things, being a good steward of the resource ensures that your favorite stream still fishes well next season. Please keep fish wet, fish barbless flies, and respect the little streams that make our area such a special place to be.

Flies to Try

Sheepfly 8-12, Hot Bead Squirrel Leech 10, Yellow and Tan Foam Caddis 14 & 16, Jig Duracell UV Tan 16, Jigged Baby Sally 14 & 16, Hare's Ear Jig 16, Chubby Chernobyl 12-16, Sparkle Minnow 6-10, Mop Fly 14, Tung Jig Naughty Bunny 14 & 16, Near Nuff Crayfish 4-6, Zirdle Bug 6-12, Sculpzilla, Strawberry Blonde 8-12, Purple Haze 14-18, Adams 14-20, Stimulator 14-16

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

DAVIDSON RIVER & AREA RIVERS

Rod: G Loomis NRX+ 9ft 5wt
Reel: Sage Spectrum Reel
Line: Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Trout 5wt

DELAYED HARVEST

Rod: Sage Foundation 9ft 6wt
Reel: Redington Run Reel
Line: Scientific Anglers Amplitude Infinity Smooth

SMALL STREAMS & WILD TROUT

What's Biting on the Davidson - Winter

Buy Now

Howell's Trip Saver
The name says it all this fly will often times produce a fish saving your trip when nothing else will work. Designed by Kevin Howell, this fly was his secret weapon that he carried during his tournament fishing days. Kevin said he knew it was just different enough to catch those highly pressured fish. For a more subtle presentation the front legs can be removed.

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Blue Wing Olive
Often active in fall and early winter on cloudy days.

Buy Now

Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail
Soft Hackles have been used by anglers for over 200 years. They are a staple in every serious guides fly box. A proven guide fly and a go to when the times are tough.

Would you be interested in more? Check out our Regional Rivers & Streams Overview and Hatch Chart with Fly Recommendations.

overhead shot of man fly fishing on the Davidson