As reported by Chris Martin . . .
February fly fishing comes with low tides, clear water, and cold mornings – the kind that make you question your life choices until the sun shows up. Fish are easier to predict this time of year, but they’re also much easier to spook. One bad step, one sloppy cast, and they’re gone.
Early in the day, redfish glue themselves to mud bottoms like they paid rent there. Mud holds heat, and in February, warmth is currency. Look for mud next to deep creeks, drains, bayous, and larger lakes – basically anywhere a redfish can eat breakfast and still have an escape plan.
As the sun climbs, fish slowly slide out of the deeper edges toward the shallows. Slowly is the key word here. This isn’t the time to cover water—it’s the time to creep, stare, and pretend you’re part of the marsh. Clear water and low tides mean the fish see everything, including bad decisions.
On overcast mornings, darker flies work best. Purple-and-black craft fur tied on a Gamakatsu SC15 or SL12S with small to medium bead-chain eyes gets the job done without making a scene. Expect bigger redfish this time of year, and they tend to run in packs—find one and you’ve probably found his friends.
February fishing rewards patience, quiet feet, and the ability to not rush things… which is why it humbles people every year.
