Everyone had a great time at the January Hoosier Fly Fishers meeting at Bobby’s Colorado Steak House. The highlight of the evening was the 2nd in a series of Fly Tying Challenges. This one was hosted by Paul Brown.  At the last meeting Paul gave a hint about the January Challenge when he said “Go Big or Go Home”. This events challenge was Lefty’s Deceiver to be tied in the appropriate colors for local lakes.  Several members participated in the challenge and everyone enjoyed the evening. Prizes were awarded for the most popular fly that would attract fish and for the best looking fly. Steve Bay tied the best fishing fly and Kimberly McCoy tied the best looking fly. All the flies tied at the challenge will be donated or raffled off at some time. Congratulations to the winners and a special thanks to PaulB for hosting and supplying the fly tying packets. Check the gallery below for more tying pictures.

Don’t forget the Fly Fishing Shows coming up, check the HFF calendar for times and places. Some upcoming programs at future HFF Meetings will include, Rex Waters of the IDNR, Fish FLAYING, and of course the Annual HFF Auction of really great stuff hosted by our own Kernal Kevin Montague,  which is always a fun time for all. Bring money for this one.

FISH REPORT:  Due to the milder temperatures we have been having and all the rain, Lake Monroe is still free of ice and lake levels are 4ft above normal pool. Water temperatures range in the high 30’s to mid 40’s. A few members have been getting out and reports of fish being caught are coming in. Look for spots with warmer temperatures close to structure and down size tackle and flies. Fishing slow and deep seems to be the best approach with weighted flies. If you get a sunny day, don’t be surprised to see fish close to the surface where the warmer water is.