Fishing doesn’t have to stop as winter rolls around. Whether you fish from the bank or go out onto the ice, you can have a successful angling trip even as cold as it gets. You might be a bit chillier as you fish, but you can still have a successful fishing trip during the winter if you take the right actions. Read on to find out about some great tips when it comes to winter fishing.
The When
Fishing is tougher during cold weather. The fish are more lethargic than they are in warm weather, and they stay in the depths for longer periods of time. It’s best to fish on sunny days even when it’s cold. The sunlight draws the fish toward the surface. Not only are they easier to catch, but there is less chance of you losing hooks and/or lures on submerged items.
Barometric pressure is also important. If it’s rising, then the fishing won’t be great. When the pressure is slightly dropping or remaining steady are the two best times to fish. If the pressure drops too much, however, then the weather won’t be great. So, it’s a delicate balancing act.
The Where
The best places to fish are those that have moving water, such as streams and rivers. Areas near rocks are great. In still water, the fish won’t move around as much because they can breathe easier in cold water. So, they can just “hang out” instead of swimming around to get more oxygen through their gills. If your favorite fishing location has still water, try to pick places with large amounts of sediment. Muddy water holds heat better, so the fish will have to move around more.
The How
You have to prepare properly for cold weather, especially if you’re going out onto the ice. First, you have to dress warmly. The best way to do this is to dress in loose layers that allow air to circulate. Your body heat will warm the air between the layers, helping you stave off the cold. Avoid cotton at all costs because it holds moisture and freezes in the cold. Wear waterproof and/or wicking fabric. You also have to remain dry to stay warm, so pick times that have clear weather. If you ice fish, then having a portable “hut” that will keep off the wind will be useful.
When it comes to the lure and/or bait, you’ll want one or more of the following:
- Brightly colored lures in yellow or green
- Lures that signal a fish’s lateral line in the water where mud obscures sight
- Small live baits that wiggle and create an attractive profile
When you’re gearing up to go, it’s a fine time to evaluate the state of your equipment and to replace fishing supplies that might be worn out.
Keeping Up Your Energy
Bring adequate food and water. One of the best ways to stay warm is to stay hydrated. You also need to eat even during those long, lazy afternoons when it’s easy to forget. Not eating will also result in you feeling colder than you would normally.