Six Tips for Winter Streamer Fishing, with Brian Slusser

Six Tips for Winter Streamer Fishing, with Brian Slusser

Author: Tom Rosenbauer, The Orvis Company January 19, 2026 Duration: 1:08:39

In this episode, my guest is Brian Slusser [32:13], an Orvis endorsed guide based in Truckee, California, who tells us about the nuances of winter streamer fishing. With over 29 years of guiding experience, Brian shares his insights on effective techniques for fishing during the colder months, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the unique conditions of winter. He discusses the significance of dressing appropriately for the cold, the best times to fish, and the types of setups and flies that work best in winter conditions. Brian also highlights the advantages of using streamers over traditional nymphs during this season, providing listeners with practical tips to enhance their winter fishing experience.

In the Fly Box this week, we have the following questions form listeners:

What time of year should I go to the Florida Keys for tarpon?

Do I need to get a warm-water fly line for tarpon?

When fighting a tarpon, do I need to point my rod at them when they jump?

What do you think of treble hooks for Atlantic salmon in Quebec?

What are the crown jewels of your fly rod collection?

Which two-handed outfit should I get for swinging flies for smallmouth bass?

What is a good but relatively inexpensive reel for my 9-foot 5-weight trout rod?

What should I do if I get stuck in deep muck when wading?

I saw hundreds of trout in Alaska jumping into the air to catch tiny white flies and I could not catch them. What should I have done?

I have a whole bunch of flies but I am relatively new and never know what size I am pulling out of my box. What can I do?


For anyone who’s ever felt the tug of a line or wondered about the quiet rhythm of a river, The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast is a steady companion. Host Tom Rosenbauer, a well-known author and the voice behind this series for The Orvis Company, doesn’t just offer tips; he shares a lifetime of curiosity spent on the water. Each week, the conversation unfolds like a guidebook coming to life, covering the tangible skills and the subtle philosophies that define fly-fishing. You’ll hear practical advice on technique and gear, certainly, but also deeper discussions about conservation, reading different waters, and understanding fish behavior. It’s that blend of straightforward education and reflective storytelling that makes this podcast unique. Whether you’re planning your first cast or have decades of experience, the aim is the same: to make your hours by the stream more thoughtful and rewarding. Tune in for a mix of solo episodes from Tom and interviews with other anglers, all grounded in a genuine passion for the sport and the wilderness it depends on. This is more than a series of lessons; it’s an ongoing dialogue for anyone who finds solace and challenge in fly-fishing.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast
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