July is all about staying warm while fishing. The more comfortable you are, the longer you stay out there, which allows you to catch more fish.

Daytime temps during a cold front will rarely get into double figures and at night will mostly be below zero.

Not so long ago I invested in some good quality thermal underwear and what a difference it has made. My Winter fishing activities have increased and I have been surprised by the fishing on offer.

The question on every fly angler’s lips is will Thompsons Creek Dam produce. The past couple of winter seasons have been a little off compared with a few years ago so who knows what will happen this year. My guess is there will be enough big rainbow trout cruising the shallows to inspire newcomers and old hands.

Clear water and spawning fish that do not eat a great deal can be quite frustrating. Fly fishing with a small Glo Bug and a trailing nymph is a good way to start.

Keep your leader to a minimum – 2kg is about right. Polarised sunnies are a must to help you see the fish take the fly.

Stay low and try to conceal yourself as best you can. The fish may not move off if they see you but they will know you are there and you will have less chance of catching one.

Fish to a kilo are average around TCD with the odd ball-tearer thrown in. The good thing is it’s all a visual thing so it’s very exciting.

Has Stewy gone round the bend? What’s with a carp bonus?

If you like casting to sighted fish in shallow water and then having your arms well and truly stretched, you will know what I mean.

Wyangala and Burrendong dams are loaded with carp and with the native fish a little on the quiet side this month, the carp offer a little bonus between slowly jigging and dragging soft plastics across the bottom for natives. Give it a go next time you’re out.

The fishing is slow but the results are there if you put in the time.

Lake Windamere possibly offers the best fishing because there are just more fish to the hectare than anywhere else.

Keep everything light and scent your plastics every couple of casts. Fish the north-facing banks and take a chair. I kid you not, it’s the best way to slow yourself down!

NO1-

Will Thompsons Creek Dam produce big trout this Winter? The author will certainly be up there to find out.

NO2-

Dale O’Neil shows how it’s done with a Winter soft plastic golden perch from Windamere. Must have been a little nippy.

NO3-

The carp bonus: Are you ready to have your arms stretched?