Does life around Smith Mountain Lake seem a little slower this time of year? If you have fond childhood memories of a line and a pole; or if you just want to try something new, why not try your hand at fishing? It might seem like cold weather is the worst time of year to venture out on the lake with fishing tackle, but according to local experts, winter is the perfect time of year to haul in the “big one”! Captain Todd of The Shad Taxi writes:
Fishing Weather: Hook, Line, and Sinker…
If you’d like to catch some big fish and plenty of them, the cool, cloudy days make the perfect time to go.
I took a fishing trip with Todd Keith on the Shad Taxi. Todd is a professional striper fishing guide at Smith Mountain Lake. “When the water is colder, the fish huddle together.” “When you throw in the bait, they are all trying to compete for the same food.” Weather features also play a big part in whether it’s a good fishing day, or a day simply to stay at home.
The change in barometric pressure is key to getting lots of hits. High pressure, typically leads to sunny days, but it also usually results in a very slow fishing day. “High pressure causes the fish to go deeper in the water,” says Captain Todd. “It also causes the fish’s swim bladder to expand pushing up against its stomach. This makes the fish feel full, and less likely to bite. Likewise, on a day with low pressure, the fish now feels hungry and ready to feed. This same reasoning is why most avid fishermen and fisherwomen prefer to drop a line on overcast or rainy days. For more on Captain Todd’s Smith Mountain Lake fishing adventures, visit www.theshadtaxi.com, or call: 540-767-2528.
Some Pros and Cons of Fishing in the Winter:
Pros
- Fewer anglers: Winter fishing usually means fewer people are out on the lake, which can increase your chances of catching fish without competition.
- Active species: Some species, like yellow perch, channel cats, trout, northern pike, and walleye, remain active and aggressive in cold water, making them more likely to bite.
- Unique challenges: In some cases winter fishing requires specialized techniques and tools, such as using live bait, jigs, and slow-moving baits, which can be exciting and challenging.
- Serene environment: The peacefulness of a winter lake, with or without snow, evergreens and frozen surroundings, can be a serene and enjoyable experience.
Cons:
- Weather conditions: Winter fishing often involves cold temperatures, wind, and/or precipitation, which can be uncomfortable and unhealthy if you are not prepared.
- Safety concerns: If the lake freezes, you’ll need to take precautions to ensure safe ice fishing practices, such as checking ice thickness and wearing appropriate gear.
- Limited access: Some lakes may be less accessible due to frozen shorelines, making it harder to reach your favorite fishing spots.
- Slower metabolism: In some species of fish, their metabolism slows down in cold water, requiring patience and persistence to catch them.
Tips for successful winter lake fishing:
- Research local fishing regulations and lake conditions before heading out.
- Dress warmly and bring appropriate gear for cold weather fishing.
- Focus on areas with structure, such as drop-offs, points, and underwater humps, where fish tend to congregate.
- Use slow-moving baits and presentations that mimic natural food sources.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential ice fishing scenarios.
If you’re willing to adapt to the unique challenges and conditions, winter lake fishing can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for anyone who loves the outdoors or being on the water.
