We are into the winter pattern with water temperature dropping and fish on the move.
Trout will be heading into the backs of deep creeks for the winter and their metabolism slows as well. You will need to SLOW-W-W-W down your technique and use extra-sensitive gear to feel the slightest tap of the rod to hook up. Soft and hard plastics (I prefer DOA and Rapala Lures) are both great choices this time of year, as well as live mud minnows and shrimp if you can find them. Please use small circle hook on live bait and keep line tight to prevent gut hooks and injury to released fish.
Drum may be mixed in during this period as well, fishing same baits and techniques.
The rock will continue to provide some excellent action on topwater, jigging and trolling. Early morning and late afternoon, as well as overcast days, fishing structure, throwing Storm Chug Bugs or Rapala Skitter Walks can give some exciting explosions. When working the deeper water around bridges and ledges, I use DOA Cal baits and Airheads twitched along the bottom contour and drops. This bite can be very subtle so set the hook hard on the slightest tap.
AND – remember that the water temperature is COLD and you wont last long in it – BE EXTRA SAFE this time of year.
