Last week, my buddy Dave Gourley and I were discussing steelhead fishing. He wanted to go to Riggins, but I told him he was crazy because he would be dodging icebergs.

He figured he could find enough open water to catch something, and he did.

I went ice fishing at C.J. Strike and caught perch and trout, he went to Riggins and caught a steelhead.

That shows how quickly things can change this time of year, and what options are available.

A little break in the weather can open up more places to fish without feeling like you’re being punished for it.

The cover story pretty well sums up ice fishing, so I won’t add anything more except go for it and have fun. I’ve really enjoyed ice fishing this winter.

But other things are opening up, and more are on the horizon. Warmer weather should make trout streams available.

I’ve been in contact with the folks at Clear Lake Country Club near Buhl. It’s being restocked on Friday, Feb. 8 with 1,600 trout in the 2-to-5-pound range, and they’re planning a fly fishing derby for Feb. 16.

This private, spring-fed lake has been a winter staple for float tubing and fly fishing in the past, and it’s good to see it restocked.

Speaking of Riggins, don’t forget the annual Women with Bait derby starts Feb. 1 and runs through March 9. See details at riveradventures.net.

Spring may still be a long way off, but I have a feeling the coldest weather is behind us.

Maybe that’s wishful thinking, but I will take it.

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Roger Phillips: 377-6215