| Winter can be challenging for bass anglers, but it’s also when the odds of catching larger fish are highest. Big bass need to eat more often than smaller ones, even in cold conditions, making them more likely to strike despite slower overall activity. While the number of bites may decrease, focusing on quality over quantity can lead to those rewarding catches. Understanding bass behavior during colder months can help you develop different strategies that target these larger fish effectively. With persistence and the right approach, winter fishing can provide opportunities to land more trophy bass that are less accessible in other seasons. Winter fishing truly requires a strategic mindset to succeed, as larger bass are often more cautious and selective about what they eat during this time. To improve your odds, direct your focus on areas with structure or access to deep water, where big fish are likely to hold and ambush prey. Pay attention to water temperature changes, as even slight warming from the sun can trigger feeding activity in key spots. Patience is crucial, as long periods without bites can discourage anglers, but perseverance often leads to the excitement of landing bass.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Scented for complete and total attraction underwater along with being made in the USA by real fishermen just like you. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. Act quickly, these new colors won’t stay in stock for long. We also recently restocked our Ghost, Red Bug, Purple Rain, Brown Bug, Electric Chicken, and Goby Wan colors. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Iits unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility. |
| Choosing the right location is critical for late-season bass fishing success. Lakes with a reputation for producing large bass are ideal, as they provide the habitat and forage necessary to sustain bigger fish. Consult local fisheries agencies or online resources to identify waters near you that consistently yield quality catches. Once on the water, look for features such as points, creek channels, and ledges, as these areas often serve as key pathways for the feeding bass. Prioritizing locations with a history of producing large fish can significantly improve your chances of success during the colder months. Exploring areas with a mix of shallow and deep water can be particularly productive, as bass often use these zones to transition between resting and feeding. Pay attention to submerged structures like fallen trees, rocks, or man-made brush piles, as these provide excellent cover for ambushing prey. Mapping out these potential hotspots before your trip can save time and allow for a far more focused approach on the water. You also never want to overlook smaller bodies, such as ponds or reservoirs, as these can concentrate bass and make them much easier to locate.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin Seed, Brown Bark, Magneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made by anglers from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action-triggering strikes! |
| During winter, don’t assume that all bass retreat to deep water. Many large bass remain in shallower areas, especially those near deep water with good cover such as stumps, logs, or rocks. These shallow zones offer ambush points and access to warmer water during sunny days, making them attractive to feeding bass. Focus on transitional areas, where shallow and deep waters meet, as they often hold active fish. By targeting these key spots, you can intercept bass as they move between feeding and resting zones. Timing your approach to shallow water is crucial, as bass are more likely to be active during the warmest parts of the day when sunlight heats the surface. Wind direction can also influence bass positioning in shallow areas, as it often pushes baitfish and warmer water toward certain spots. Use a stealthy approach to avoid spooking bass in these shallower zones, especially in clear water where fish can be more easily alarmed. Observing bird activity, such as herons or gulls, can also help identify areas where baitfish are present, attracting larger bass. Combining strategic timing, careful observation, and precise casting, you can effectively work shallow waters.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fact, we just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost and 10w30 Syntheic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater. |
| In cold conditions, bass are less aggressive and require a slower presentation to entice strikes. Soft plastics, such as lizards, insect larva, cray-styled baits, beetles, and worms, are excellent choices because they can be worked slowly to mimic natural prey. Focus on dragging or subtly hopping these baits along the bottom near structure where bass are likely to be holding. Adjust your retrieves to be as slow as possible while maintaining natural movement, as overly fast presentations are less effective in colder water. The key is to match the pace of your bait with the fish’s sluggish behavior for more consistent results. Experiment with varying retrieve speeds to find the ideal pace that triggers a reaction, as some bass may respond better to subtle pauses or slight twitches. Pay close attention to your line for any unusual movement, as winter bass often strike softly and may not provide the aggressive feedback seen in warmer months. Using a sensitive rod and maintaining direct contact with your bait helps detect even the faintest bites, ensuring you don’t miss opportunities. Target specific areas with high-probability cover, such as the edges of creek channels or vegetation.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate Mint, Ox Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round! |
| Cold weather requires adjustments to your gear and technique to maximize success. Using a reel with a slower gear ratio helps maintain a controlled retrieve, ensuring your bait stays in the strike zone longer. Avoid filling your reel completely with line, which naturally reduces retrieval speed. These small adjustments allow you to fish at the same rhythm as in warmer months but with the slower pace needed for winter conditions. Adapting your setup ensures you can target bass effectively despite their lethargy. Pairing your slower retrieve with a rod that offers a soft tip can enhance sensitivity and control, allowing you to detect subtle strikes more easily. Switching to fluorocarbon or light monofilament line can improve your presentation by reducing visibility and providing better lure action in clear, cold water. Adjusting your bait size to slightly smaller profiles can match the natural forage bass prefer during winter. It’s also helpful to dress appropriately for the cold to maintain dexterity, ensuring you can effectively manage your gear throughout the day. By fine-tuning both your equipment and your personal preparation, you’ll stay efficient and ready to catch.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added new MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Wild Cherry Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out along with some of our newest colors including the Brown Worm, Electic Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also released new 6-inch Worms including Charmeleon, Rainbow TRT, Bone, Chocolate Mint, and Fire TGR are all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater. |
| Winter fishing often calls for a more subtle approach, making lighter line an important factor in your setup. Using a lighter line reduces water displacement, making your presentation appear more natural to bass. Even when fishing around cover, lighter lines provide a stealthier approach that can lead to more bites in clear or pressured water. Pair your lighter line with soft plastics or other finesse techniques to create an irresistible combination for sluggish winter bass. This adjustment can make a significant difference when targeting fish in tough conditions. Choosing the right type of lighter line is also essential fluorocarbon is an excellent option due to its low visibility underwater and enhanced sensitivity. When using lighter line, adjust your drag settings to avoid break-offs during the fight, especially when dealing with larger bass. Practice precise casting to place your bait close to cover without getting snagged, as lighter line is less forgiving in heavy structure. Keep an eye on your line for signs of wear or abrasion, replacing it as needed to maintain strength and reliability. By mastering these details, you can optimize your presentation and improve your chances of success.Our newest FreshBaitz Mandingo Trick Worm is the ultimate game-changer for anglers with a passion! Engineered for the angler who knows SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a penchant for the larger bait. The Mandingo Trick Worm boasts a solid 7-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. Officially available in a vibrant array of 8 colors. Each worm is made from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for total and maximum attraction, the Mandingo Trick Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing the big ones. Proudly made in the USA by real anglers to help elevate your fishing experience and catch more bass year-round! |
| Success in winter bass fishing starts with the right mindset. Accept that you won’t get as many bites as during warmer months, but understand that each strike has the potential to come from a larger fish. Staying warm and comfortable is essential for maintaining focus, as discomfort can lead to lapses in concentration and missed opportunities. Approach each outing with patience and persistence, as winter bass fishing rewards those who are willing to adapt and stay dedicated. By keeping a positive attitude and adjusting expectations, you can make the most of this often-overlooked season. Preparing mentally for the slower pace of winter fishing helps you stay engaged and attentive, increasing your chances of reacting quickly to subtle strikes. Setting realistic goals, such as targeting specific areas or experimenting with new techniques, can make each outing feel productive, even if the bite is slow. Celebrate small successes, like identifying promising locations or improving your presentations, as these achievements build confidence for future trips. Fishing with a friend or staying connected to the angling community can provide motivation and shared learning during the cold days.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve recently released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! Mosquito Hooks work for drop-shotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you pressure time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. |