As we get deeper into winter here in the region, I think about past winters and where I had some great fishing. One of the first places that comes to mind is Rufus Woods Reservoir. I started fishing up here in the early 90s, before the unintentional releases of triploids into the reservoir. I have enjoyed many days of great fishing up here and some disappointing days, too. That’s fishing. I still get excited when planning a trip to Rufus Woods. For good reason. I have been lucky enough to take a couple of real whoppers. Although the two really big fish I have taken have come from the reservoir near one of net pens, or in the bay below them, I have landed some dandies trolling along the can line above Chief Joseph Dam and from the shore at Brandts Landing. Brandts Landing is a great spot to fish Rufus Woods and the action here should really take off as we get further into our winter season. I have had very good success casting a marshmallow and shrimp combo out to the wind line here and have taken my limit in less than an hour a few times.