Sunday, January 18, 2026

Staying Busy During the Cold Weather

 I thought I would share some of the projects I’ve been working on during the cold month of January. As many of you know, one of my hobbies is woodworking, and during the winter months I spend a lot of time in my wood shop. Too cold to fish this time of the yearfor me, especially when the temps are in the mid 50's or lower during the day. I remember being on the water during those cold temp days when I was younger but not anymore. That is why my fishing season begins now the last week in March. 

Cathey wanted a small bench for our back porch, which I made using scrap pine. I seldom throw away lumber that I think I can use one day for a project such as this bench. I needed a larger shelf to store some of my fishing items. Everything you see on the shelf had been taking up space in the bottom of my boat. The hat rack was a must!

I've been doing a lot of fly tying lately. These are the better ones I am willling to share. I am not worried about a traditional color, but just in the experiment stage now. The colors are a little far-fetched, and probably doesn't relate to a particular bug or insect. I have learned one thing since I started tying: is the videos on line make it look so easy, but for me it has been a fun challenge, not frustrating. It will be interesting in the Spring to see which one of these beauties will attract a take. I will be trying some of these patterns on the tailrace as soon the temps warm.  


6 comments:

  1. Looks good, Bill. For me, winter activities include skis, snowshoes, fat tire bike, and sometimes a .22 rifle. And tying flies, as well. Tying is fun and interesting, and the hope and anticipation that a fish will take your own handmade creation is fun, too.

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    1. I will get a chance to see if any of first ties will get the attention of a bluegill or bass, soon as the temps wiarm a bit, but when it happens I will be pleased. Thanks for the coment

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  2. Thanks for sharing your winter hobbies, Bill. Those flies look great! The warmer weather is just around the corner, it won't be long before you can try them. All the best.

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    1. Justin
      I can already see that fly tying is something I wish I had started years ago along with my fly fishing. Thanks for the comment

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  3. Nice handiwork all around. Great way to be productive with your winter. I'm placing bets on the bottom right fly...

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  4. Michael
    I have a feeling any of these flies will get the attentioin of the medium and small size bluegills. As for the big bulls that will take another fly tying session closer to insects. I haven;'t tied any trout files yet.

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