Winter Fishing
Learn how to seize the season and haul in catch after trophy-worthy catch.
Grab your fingerless gloves and get ready to fill your fishboxes: Winter offers plenty of great fishing opportunities, provided you do your research and prepare accordingly. (Plus, by braving the colder temps, you've automatically got a leg up on all the fair-weather fishermen who decided to pack it in until spring.) The following tips will help you maximize your relationship with Old Man Winter.
Watch the Forecast — This time of year, fish tend to be fairly temperamental. Weather conditions have a huge impact on their activity levels. Fish feed just before the passing of a cold front, so if you can time your trip for right before that happens, you’re more likely to get the bites you’re after.
Plan Your Attack — As with any season, choosing the right location makes all the difference between a successful outing and a strikeout. Visit your state’s Department of Natural Resources page for information on what fish are where, along with any rules and regulations you should be aware of. Social media can be another great resource; head here for a list of popular sites.
Gather Your Gear — Winter is tough on fishing gear; make sure you’ve properly maintained your reels so that cold temperatures don’t freeze your bearings or thicken old grease. You might also consider using a line conditioner to prevent water from collecting and icing up.
Rate Your Bait — This time of year, fish and their food sources tend to move more slowly than they do in the warmer months. That means live bait will be much more enticing than a lure, which will move too quickly and could spook the fish. If you still prefer to use lures, choose smaller ones with feathers or fur for more realistic action.
Dress Accordingly — Don’t forget to look after your own comfort and safety! It’s especially important to keep your hands and feet dry. That means waterproof boots, thick socks and insulated gloves, with a spare set of fingerless gloves for tasks that require more dexterity. Add an extra layer or two in general, including long underwear and a warm coat. Consider adding a waterproofing spray to your pre-trip prep for an extra layer of protection.
Winter Smarts — Last but not least, exercise common sense. The season presents its own unique challenges, but they’re all surmountable if you plan ahead and make smart choices. Visit our Winter Boating Guide for our top 12 things to keep in mind as you chart a course for fishing success.
--
This is for general information purposes only. Your use or reliance on any of the information in this Blog is solely at your own risk. Under no circumstance will we have any liability for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of any of the information provided.
Options and features mentioned subject to change. Please confirm availability of all accessories and equipment with an authorized Boston Whaler Dealer.
