There Are Some Benefits to Winter Bass Fishing

Fishing through the winter months can be rewarding for a number of reasons. To start with, those long lines of summer boaters and jet-skiers tying up the launch ramp are gone. Further, the cold temperatures keep all the fair-weather anglers at home. And last but not least, the hunting season has led many anglers to trade their favorite lakes for the woods.

All that’s left is finding the right time to go. While many have to plan their fishing around work schedules, the weather is another consideration. A look at the forecast can narrow down which days likely will be more productive. Keep in mind that, while the best fishing conditions may not be the most comfortable for anglers, some conditions are sure to improve catching odds.

Weather fronts affect the activity level of all freshwater species. In general, fish are more active prior to a front and less active after it passes. Whenever possible, optimize your chances by planning fishing trips just before a passing cold front. If, however, you’re one of those anglers who are limited to fishing on just weekends, regardless of the weather, here are some tips for fishing post-front conditions.

Low barometric pressure always precedes a front. After it passes through, the pressure will be high, bringing winds from the north or northeast and preventing clouds from forming in the sky. This will create picturesque (often referred to as bluebird) days but not always the most productive fishing conditions. The bright sun, however, can be used to anglers’ advantage.

During winter months, the sun’s global position is further south in the sky. This allows it to shine very strongly on northern banks. A northern bank also prevents the cold north wind from hitting the water. Wind protection and bright sun mean the water will warm faster during the day in these areas. For this reason, concentrate your efforts on these northern banks.

During the winter, the best fish-catching times are typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That’s not to say a couple won’t bite at daybreak and/or dusk—they just will be few and far between. So take this opportunity to sleep in and enjoy a more comfortable experience with the warming day.