Most bass fishing anglers are well versed on how effective jigs are at catching bass in just about any situation an angler can encounter. They emulate just about any forage species, work effectively at any depth, and get bit in the most pressured conditions.
They’re also one of the few baits that excels in the winter, when the water temps plummet and bass become extremely lethargic.
Here’s a quick rundown on where and how to catch bass on jigs through the winter months.
Where To Catch Winter Jig Bass
In the winter, bass are almost always going to hang around areas with a steep break line. Sometimes this break is on the bank, like a bluff wall or point, and other times it’s submerged, like a ditch, drain, or depression. Steep slopes allow bass to move up and down to feed without expending a lot of energy. Spend some time looking at the lake map, and identify areas with steep breaks, then focus on them once you’re on the water.
How To Catch Winter Jig Bass
Think S-L-O-W when fishing a jig in the winter. In super cold water, bass are extremely lethargic, so it takes a long time for them to chase down and bite a jig. If you move too fast, you’ll actually move your bait out of their strike zone before they even have a chance to bite. Instead, focus on “feeling” the bottom – it’ll cause you to slow down. Make a cast, let it hit bottom, and keep your rod tip high while slowly inching your jig along the bottom. Sometimes casts can take a minute or more. Pay close attention to the rod as well – bass jig bites often feel like mush in the winter, so set the hook if it feels even a little weird.
Rig Up For Winter Jig Bass
For winter jig fishing, you’re generally casting lighter jigs in the ¼ or 3/8 ounce sizes. For that reason, you can get away with a 7 foot medium heavy rod, paired with a high speed reel spooled with 12 to 15 pound fluorocarbon. Opt for jigs with finesse cut skirts, or even hair skirts – and trailers that have as little action as possible like chunks, tubes, or even pork.
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