Don't count on it, but you might find some surface action, as occasional stonefly hatches are reported on warmer days. The only tackle restriction is artificials only, and one trout per day of 14 inches or better may be creeled. These regulations ensure that good numbers of decent-sized fish are present year 'round.

The special regulations section of the East Branch is near the junction of Interstate Route 84 and I-684, using routes 6 or 22 to reach the stream. Parking is available at various locations, including bridges and in the village of Brewster.

DELAWARE RIVER
The border waters of the West Branch and the main Delaware River are open to catch-and-release trout fishing from Oct. 1 to the first Saturday after April 11, making both prime targets for a February outing.

Because the West Branch is a tailwater fishery with warmer water released from the Cannonsville Dam, it's the best bet for winter fishing. But remember, it is strictly off-limits until it hits the Pennsylvania-New York line, 1.7 miles below the Hale Eddy bridge. The tailwater aspect of the West Branch is both good and bad news. Recently, flows have been restricted to maintain a full reservoir, producing minimum river levels both summer and winter. The New York City water supply regulators, along with Mother Nature, play a hand here in determining fishing conditions.

Regardless of the water management problems, these are blue-ribbon trout rivers, potentially the best in the northeastern states. Winter fishermen are restricted to artificial lures only in the no-kill border stretches of the West Branch. Larger streamers and favorite nymphs, such as Hare's Ear, are recommended, along with spinners and small stick baits fished deep and slow.

The main Delaware River is border water since it is formed by the West and East branches at Hancock, and is also no-kill for winter fishermen, although there is no restriction on tackle.

Exits 87 and 87A from state Route 17 at Hancock lead to local roads for access to the West Branch and main Delaware River.

KAYADEROSSERAS CREEK
A small stream easily overlooked by Capital District fishermen, Kayaderosseras is a favorite of anglers taking the time to explore the pools, runs and pocket water. It is heavily stocked with brown trout, including some 2-year-olds up to 15 inches, during the regular trout season. Last year, the DEC spent $10,500 on the Kayaderosseras for parking, handicapped access and various stream improvement projects.

Trout fishing is open year 'round on the creek, except that section from Saratoga Lake upstream to the first railroad bridge, which is closed from March 16 until the opening of the walleye season. There are no tackle or size restrictions, and fishermen may keep five trout per day.

Kayaderosseras is in Saratoga County northwest of Saratoga Springs, with Creek Road, North Creek Road and other local roads off state Route 29 providing access.

WEST CANADA CREEK
Not a creek, but really a river with a remote sounding name, West Canada is in Herkimer County, north of Utica, within easy reach of central New York fishermen.

For February trips, the only open trout water is the 2.5-mile stretch from the Trenton Falls dam downstream to the mouth of Cincinnati Creek. This is a tailwater fishery with frequent changes in water level that keep the river from icing over. Anglers must keep a wary eye out for rising water.

Known locally as the "trophy stretch," catch-and-release trout fishing is permitted year 'round with artificial lures. The great thing about West Canada is that it harbors quality brown trout ranging from 12 to 18 inches, with an occasional 20-incher reported. Wild brookies that filter in from various tributaries are also present.

The Trenton Falls segment of West Canada Creek is reached by way of state Route 12 north from Utica to Route 28 east to the river.