Carry On Fishing - Furled Leaders Catch More Grayling

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures start to dip, many anglers find themselves reluctantly packing away their gear, marking the end of another trout fishing season.

Rods are cleaned and stored, reels are wound with fresh backing, and fly boxes are sorted and organised for the long winter months ahead. It’s a bittersweet time for trout enthusiasts—reflecting on the season's triumphs and near-misses, already looking forward to that first cast next spring. However, before sealing away all the kit for hibernation, there’s one last opportunity worth considering: grayling fishing.

The Perfect Time for Grayling While trout may be out of season {although I did catch a record brownie just last week!}. October through March marks prime time for targeting grayling, often referred to as the "Lady of the Stream" due to their beautiful, shimmering scales and elegant dorsal fin. These fish provide the perfect excuse to keep your fly rod in hand a little longer. With grayling being a winter species, they thrive in the cooler months when other fishing options may be limited. This presents a unique challenge and an exciting way to extend your time on the water while other anglers have already hung up their waders.

A grayling being caught on a Copper Knob

The Joys of Winter Fishing Fishing for grayling in the colder months brings a different atmosphere compared to the bustling trout season. Rivers are quieter, offering a sense of peaceful solitude that's hard to find during the peak summer months. You won’t have to jostle for the best spots or navigate crowded parking areas. Instead, it’s just you, the river, and the chance to pursue one of the most underrated game fish in freshwater. Grayling can be caught using a variety of fly fishing techniques, but nymphing is especially effective during winter when insect activity slows down, and fish are found near the riverbed.

This is where a quality setup, such as a furled leader with a depth change indicator, can really shine. It allows you to present your nymphs at various depths with the ability to detect the subtlest of takes, giving you the best chance of hooking into one of these spirited fish. A Different Kind of Challenge While trout fishing may be more familiar, grayling present their own set of challenges that make them rewarding to catch. Known for their skittish behaviour and tendency to hold in deep pools or fast-flowing runs, they require a strategic approach. You’ll need to adapt to the changing water conditions that winter brings—cold, fast currents, and fluctuating water levels. This adaptability will not only help you catch grayling but will make you a more versatile and skilled angler overall. The gear requirements don’t differ much from trout fishing. A 3- or 4-weight rod is ideal, and nymphing setups with indicators work beautifully.

Those who have mastered techniques like Czech nymphing or Euro nymphing will find grayling fishing to be a natural extension of their skills. And for those who haven't yet tried these methods, now is the perfect time to learn and refine them. The Environmental Benefits of Grayling Fishing Aside from the personal joy it brings, fishing for grayling also supports conservation efforts. As temperatures drop, grayling are better suited to cooler water than trout, making them an excellent winter target that alleviates pressure on trout populations during their more vulnerable periods.

By focusing on grayling, you’re not only expanding your fishing experience but also playing a part in sustainable fishing practices. Preparing for a Grayling Adventure If you’re considering taking up grayling fishing this winter, now is the time to prepare. Make sure your gear is suitable for the colder months; layering up is essential for staying comfortable during winter outings. Also, check your local regulations to ensure you’re fishing legally and in designated grayling waters. Some areas Have. Specific release rules for grayling, so be mindful to handle them carefully and respectfully. As for tackle, be sure to have a variety of nymphs, especially smaller patterns in sizes 16-20, as grayling often feed on tiny insects. It's also worth investing in a quality 10ft nymphing furled leader with an indicator kit, which is perfect for delicate presentations in cold conditions where fish can be extra cautious. The Season Doesn't Have to End Just because the trout season is winding down doesn’t mean your fishing adventures need to be put on hold. Grayling offer a fantastic way to extend the season, providing new challenges and experiences. You might even find that pursuing these underrated fish becomes one of your favourite winter pastimes. So, before you pack away all your gear for the year, give grayling fishing a try—you may just discover a new passion. By keeping your rod active a little longer, you not only keep your skills sharp but also make the most of the peaceful beauty that winter fishing has to offer.

Grab your gear, don your winter woollies, and head to the river—the Lady of the Stream is waiting.