Big Start to a Big Year
As a Midwesterner, I embrace the four seasons. That doesn’t mean I don’t like some more than others. This spring has been incredible on the river. Over the last few months I’ve watched the river transform. Ice-scoured banks are now green shorelines of water willows. Wild red columbine blooms out from the limestone bluffs. The river has come alive.
Baitfish imitations and crayfish patterns have brought countless big-shouldered fish to the boat. And now, as the river warms into the 70’s and begins to clear, smallmouth bass are starting to look up for top water flies.
There’s a first time for everything. And as I’ve launched this guide service, I have seen a lot of firsts: Anglers landing their first fish on a fly rod, first 20’’ smallmouth bass of the year (nice work Dave), first time getting buzzed by a Bald Eagle, first time being chased by a beaver, the first damsel and dragon flies showing up on the water…
I invite you to book your first trip with Big River Fly Fishing and escape the city, the office, work, routine for a day on a drift boat. Enjoy some of the best angling to be had during these warm months and experience a river that never ceases to amaze. A BIG thanks to everyone who has come out with me this year to put a few bends in the rod and share some laughs.
As we move into summer, I’d like to point out a few fly fishing resources, new and long-standing in the Chicagoland area. Congrats to Jeremy, Andy and the guys at DuPage Fly Fishing Co., who opened their doors this year in Naperville. Illinois is now home to two outstanding fly shops, staffed with the friendliest, fishiest guys in the industry. Pay a visit to Dupage Fly Fishing Co. or Chicago Fly Fishing Outfitters, where I’ll be working on Tuesdays throughout the guiding season. Check out the gear, take a casting lesson or brag about your most recent trip on the river.
Summer dates are filling fast. Reserve your spot soon. For more info or to book your trip, feel free to contact me. Thank you for your continued interest.
Join me on the river.
Captain Will Winans
