In the winter months, most people associate with a break from work, school, and activities outside. But for anglers, it is that time of year when fish are more active than ever. The cold water temperatures combined with shorter days and minimal sunlight create the perfect environment for bass to move into deeper waters and feed at a faster rate. Many experienced anglers choose this time of year to catch even larger specimens of these stealthy fish. If you want to make the most of your opportunities to go fishing in the coming months, here are some handy tips for fishing for bass in winter:
Plan and know where the bass will be
One of the most important tips for fishing for bass in winter is to know where they will be. Unlike most warm water fish, the bass doesn’t migrate away from cold water, instead, they move to deeper water as water temperatures fall. This means you will most likely find bass in the same areas even when the water temperatures reach below 35 degrees, and below 10 degrees, bass will be actively feeding in deeper waters. Because these fish don’t migrate from cold water, it’s important to find out the expected water temperatures for the coming months so you know where to focus your efforts.
Use the best equipment for winter fishing
While many anglers choose to put away their fishing gear during the cold months, seasoned fishers know that the right equipment can make all the difference between a successful catch and a cold, unfruitful day. When fishing for bass in winter, it’s important to select the right gear for the conditions. Lines, reels, and lures all need to be sturdy and able to work in low temperatures. Because water temperatures are cold and fish are actively feeding, it’s important to keep your gear as dry as possible when storing and transporting it. Strong gear bags and covers will help prevent moisture and the buildup of ice crystals to make it easier to use your gear when you need it. When it comes to selecting the right lure, look for options that are built to last in cold temperatures. Hard-bodied lures are a great choice, as they are often made with a thicker plastic that is more durable in winter conditions.
Go slow, until you find active fish
As we’ve already discussed, fish are actively feeding in winter, so you will likely find them in shallower waters. However, this doesn’t mean you should rush to the nearest fish-holding water and start casting. Instead, take your time and fish slowly and carefully to avoid spooking the fish. Because fish are actively feeding, you should try several different lures and cast them to different areas to determine where the fish are actively feeding. Once you’ve found a few active fish, try changing lure types and colors to determine what type of bait the fish are interested in.
Stay warm — it’s all about survival for the fish
Fishing for bass in winter is a great way to get more fish in your freeze, but it can also be a tricky time to be out on the water. To make the most of your time on the water and to reduce the risk of injury or hypothermia, it’s important to dress appropriately before heading out to fish. Because the water is colder and there is less sunlight, it’s important to wear warm, waterproof clothing and to be sure to pack extra layers if you plan to be out on the water for longer than an hour. When it comes to your feet, investing in proper fishing boots is a good idea. Not only will boots prevent your feet from becoming wet, but they will also protect them from stings and bites from other water creatures.
Slow-moving rivers are a great place to start
Because bass feeds actively in winter, slow-moving rivers are a great place to start when fishing for bass in the colder months. However, when fishing in rivers it’s important to pick the right spot and stay aware of your surroundings. Because these rivers are slow-moving, they are a great place for bass to feed on shad, but it’s also an ideal location for anglers. When fishing in a river, it’s important to avoid areas with a lot of currents and look for areas that have a little bit of flow but are still relatively calm. Calm areas are the perfect place for fish to feed.
Don’t forget to check your local regulations
It’s important to check your state and local regulations before you go fishing to ensure that you are permitted to fish where you are and that you are fishing in the right season. Because bass doesn’t migrate away from cold water, you will be able to catch fish in the winter in most areas. However, there are a few states that have closed their waters to fishing during the winter months, so it’s important to check your regulations before you head out.
Bottom line
Fishing for bass in winter is a great way to enjoy the outdoors even when the temperatures drop. By following these tips, you can be sure to have a successful fishing trip and get more fish in your freezer for the year ahead.