Nolin Lake Fishing Report: Catching Bass In The Cold

December 6, 2018 Report

by Terry Watts:
Nolin is about 5 feet above winter pool and falling.  Surface temps are in the 40's.  Clarity is stained at the dam to muddy at Wax. 

Bass can still be caught in the winter months.  Being cold blooded, a fish's metabolism slows way down.  A single bluegill or shad will keep a bass happy for 10 days more.  Fish tend to form tight schools near deep water and a consistent food supply.  They don't want to use a lot of energy to be comfortable, eat or seek safe areas. 

Bluffs are a great place for winter bass.  The depth of the water provides security, the rock tends to warm the water and bluegill provide a constant food source.  The fish will suspend right against the rock or 20 to 30 feet off shore.  A deep running jerkbait is ideal for these fish.  Since bluegill are a winter food source, choose a bait with green, blue and some reds.  The colder the water, the longer the bait needs to soak between twitches.  Ten feet is a good depth for winter fish. 

They will come up for a meal, but not down very often.  You are not going to get many bites in winter.  But, its great being on the lake!  Merry Christmas!  I am looking forward to March and the lure of big fish.