There’s nothing quite like enjoying a nice fishing trip for anglers. Getting out on the water and casting your lure, whether as a solo adventurer or with friends and family is a great way to relax, and hopefully, walk away with some nice fish.
However, fishing may seem more difficult in the winter since the temperatures are lower and you might even deal with ice and snow. Fortunately, we’ve got some helpful tips for fishing in colder weather that can make your trip an enjoyable one.
Picking the Right Boat
Finding the right spot to cast out during a winter fishing trip can make a big difference. Many fish sink down to the deeper parts of the water during the winter, so you may not have as much luck if you’re casting off from the shore. Plenty of great boats for exploring freshwater areas are available, so you can pick one that suits your needs. You’ll want a boat that’s steady on the water and won’t do too much to scare away the fish.
Protecting Your Body
You should dress in multiple, easy-to-remove layers instead of relying on one heavy piece of clothing. With the right layers, you can remove one or two as needed to keep yourself comfortable. You can also keep warm by bringing out a thermos of your favorite hot beverage, whether it be coffee, tea, cocoa, or cider.
While your various layers can protect most of your body, you must still protect yourself from sunburns while on the boat. Just because the day is not particularly hot doesn’t mean that the suns UV rays can’t damage your skin. You must still wear the right sunscreen on your exposed areas and reapply it as necessary throughout your trip, even in winter.
Understand the Fish
One of the most helpful tips for fishing in colder weather is understanding that fish behave differently in the colder seasons. Tricks that work well in the summer may not be as effective in the winter. For example, fish are more lethargic in the winter and less likely to spend their energy chasing a fast moving lure or bait. Try to offer them something eye-catching, but not overly complex.
A lure with feathers or hair that lazily lists in the water rather than something moving a bit more rapidly can catch their attention and result in a bite.
Winter fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors and get fresh air in the colder season. With these helpful tips, you can end your trip with a good haul of fish and feel a sense of pride and accomplishment when you head out on the water.