Where Are Winter Bass?!

[eatlessfish]

I am planning on making a couple trips to the lake this winter and I am wondering where winter bass are going to be. Should I target deep structure. My lake is only 30' deep at it's deepest. Or should I flip docks with a jig? I have heard go deep, I've heard shallow and I've heard either one will hold bass. So where (deep or shallow,creeks, humps, docks, etc.) and what baits on what rods should I throw? Thanks for any input.

[RoLo]

I am planning on making a couple trips to the lake this winter and I am wondering where winter bass are going to be. Should I target deep structure. My lake is only 30' deep at it's deepest. Or should I flip docks with a jig? I have heard go deep, I've heard shallow and I've heard either one will hold bass. So where (deep or shallow,creeks, humps, docks, etc.) and what baits on what rods should I throw? Thanks for any input.

[backwater4]

Find deeper structure, not necessarily 30 ft, but somewhere in the 20+ range. Ledges, rockpiles, foundations, etc. Find bait on these places an you will find fish. Drop shot, jigging spoon, blade bait (silver buddy) football jig and even a slow moving Alabama rig. 

[Nitrofreak]

To avoid misleading replies, you really want to specify whether it's a natural lake or manmade lake (impoundment),

Generally speaking, a 30-ft basin is more than adequate even in an artificial reservoir.

In winter, the grade of the slope is critical, where the steeper the dropoff the higher the potential. 

 

Roger

[B-Dozer]

^{Try the east side of the lake, and during the afternoon}

[KyakR]

Winter bass try to conserve energy and can often be found on steep dropoffs where they can move up and down with minimal effort. I often throw a finesse jig or TR plastic to the top of the ledge and let it slowly tumble down......that is if I can find open water in early winter up here

[WRB]

Find the depth the baitfish are at, then decide where to start fishing. You should have a shad population in GA lakes, look for shad schools, look for birds that feed on shad. The bass should be close to their prey.

Tom

[Bluebasser86]

Like others have said, steep drops are usually good. I like to find ones that are near the last places they were during the fall. If they're rocky areas or have patces of live grass still then they seem to be even better.

[eatlessfish]

Thanks guys I guess I'll go out and find some deep vertical structure and dropshot, throw a crig, football jig, etc. Thanks for all the great answers. I can always count on you guys!

[Bluebasser86]

Dont forget a jerkbait around that vertical structure.

X2, my favorite winter presentation in clear to slightly stained water.

[AK-Jax86]

I can't answer your question since I have not fished your spots in your area

BUT

I know the winter bass here in Jacksonville better be getting ready for the gift I am about to present them in the form of crank baits the week of Christmas! I have then til New Years off to provide them with numerous gifts... It's the giving season! Happy holidays bass