Winter 2026
®
I believe bass find a level of comfort with a constant temperature. The dark areas are more predictable with less swing in temperature. Once they have acclimated to this constant, they have no reason to leave. A slight uptick in temperature (produced from minimal sunlight and warmth) is not beneficial to seek out.
TIMING
With this amount of information on light and dark areas, we can now plan our day accordingly. On many trips during the coldest months, I will start in the backs of creek channels and target the shadiest, coldest banks. It is not always the most comfortable area to fish for us as anglers, but the fish in these areas are comfortable and most likely to be feeding. As the morning turns to afternoon, on days where the sun’s penetration has allowed the surface temperature to warm, we will begin to target these lighted banks and points. Remember, rocks absorb heat, so keep an eye out for those flat rocks that are half submerged.
During these colder months, it is very important for the fish to manage their output versus intake. This means that they feed on a risk-versus-reward basis. The largest, high- protein meal that is easiest to catch is what they prefer. Knowing this, we can make a calculated decision on which lures we should be focusing on.
The first one on my list would be a swimbait. A large, unassuming rainbow trout slowly swimming through the
strike zone will get their attention. Switching between a soft bait and a wide glide bait will help determine where they are and what will trigger a bite.
The next on the list is a crawfish imitation. This is their most abundant and reliable source of food. The crawfish are also slow moving, making them an easy meal. A full-sized 1/2-ounce jig with a twin-tail trailer is a must-have for this season. For spinning gear anglers, or just to offer a smaller profile, a tube is a great second option.
And third on the list is a bait choice for suspended fish, which by nature can be extremely difficult to catch. They are not interested in chasing or scouring for a meal. This is when the float-n-fly comes into play. The design of this presentation is for the fly to suspend at the approximate holding depth of the fish. It settles at this depth and just stays there. With little to no movement, this allows the fish to effortlessly move closer to investigate. Once they have reached it, they instinctively eat it.
Color selection does matter based on light and dark conditions. As a rule of thumb, I would lean toward fishing lighter, more natural hues in light water, and select darker and bolder colors when fishing in dark water.
These cold-water months are some of my favorites. Just remember that timing plays a large part in getting the fish to bite. So, if they are not biting where you are fishing, change the lighting. •
page 42
https://www.facebook.com/ArmyBassAnglers/