By Ronnie Parris
Hey folks old man winter has definitely decided it’s time to visit. Some mornings, when the mercury don’t get past 20 ,it’s tempting to add more wood to the fire and get another cup or 2 of coffee. But honestly, if you prepare well for the cold, this could be the best time of the year to catch really big fish in our mountain lakes.
First and foremost, good cold weather clothing is a must. I start with a good moisture wicking base layer. Then I have one of the heated jackets that are really great, and I top it off with a good waterproof pair of coveralls. I also have a heater on my boats, but be very careful when picking a heater, as safety is paramount when out on the water. I’ve never really been able to feel subtle bites while wearing gloves, so at least I can warm my hands over the heater. Hot hands placed in a jacket pocket works well also.
As far as the fishing when it’s this cold, it’s usually great. I start the morning off searching for schools with my live scope, and usually they are more than happy to hit minnows or minnow imitations For whatever reason a crayfish crank bait works well this time of year also. You would think when the temperature plummets the fish would also but sometimes it’s the opposite. I’ve had great luck working rocky shorelines, casting to the bank, especially the sunny side where downed trees are present.
A slight water temperature difference can make all the difference, so if you’re looking and find a 2 degree change, work this area hard even if you don’t see fish. They may be planted so close to the bottom the live scope doesn’t detect them. So many times, I’ve never seen a fish ‘til my bait got close and it rose up from the bottom to get it.
Bottom line is, it’s gonna be cold and windy, but the bite’s usually great, so suit up and get out there and enjoy what God gave us. I usually end with take a kid fishing, but this might not be a good time for the little ones. I’d wait for the warmer months to take your little fishing buddies. Stay safe friends, and God bless!
Ronnie Parris is owner and head guide of Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited-Fontana Lake Fishing Guides, headquartered in Bryson City, N.C., heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, www.smokymountainoutdoorsunlimited.com; (828) 488-9711.