Transition Between Fall and Winter
There is no doubt that there is a dead period between the fall bite and the winter bite; making the correct decisions during this period is key! What factors determine your decisions are the most daunting as being in the right place at the right time, or fishing where the fish are is the task at hand. What determines where to go, what to look for and what baits to use will be the topic of discussions.
What happens when we start to see this dead period between stages is key to understanding where to fish; the water first of all falls into the low 40’s in water temperature moving the fish to areas of warm water when feeding. The bait moves, the bass move with them and feeding becomes rare during the coldest part of the day. Temperature readings become a key factor, looking for warmer water can be a difference maker as just a couple of degrees difference may make your day much better. As any time of year food source is always a factor in finding bass, so use your electronics to look for bait balls, or shad popping along the edge of some deeper drops can determine where you should spend your time. The sun is a big factor in this time of transition; the sun gathers the fish up, warms the water and becomes a factor in their competitive aggressive nature. It generally changes their feeding time from the natural early morning to more of a midday allowing you to start your day a little later eliminating the need to get on the water at first light.
When I see this transition time, I start first with reaction baits, there is probably no better transition bait for the fall to winter change than a jerk bait, it’s a taunting, settling reaction bait that drive bass nuts this time of year. Especially the deeper runners that drop down to 10 ft. or more allowing you to entice them off the bottom of 20 ft, water. There is no doubt that this time of year feeding is rare, but bass always react to quick jerks or baits being dropped off edges from shallow to deep water. Be persistent with reaction baits, find the right water and food source and you will be successful!
Fish Lake Guntersville Guide Service
www.fishlakeguntersvilleguideservice.com
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Email: bassguide@comcast.net
Call: 256 759 2270
Capt. Mike Gerry