Fishing for Winter River Smallmouths

Fishing for smallmouth bass in rivers during the winter can be a rewarding experience, though it does require a bit of knowledge and strategy. Smallmouth bass, like most fish, become less active in colder water temperatures so they tend to move to deeper, slower-moving pools and troughs in rivers. With the right mindset, techniques and equipment, however, you can still have some great days catching smallmouth bass in rivers throughout the winter.

When it comes to selecting your fishing spot, focus on areas with structure such as deep pools, eddies, and troughs especially with cover like boulders, rock piles, submerged vegetation or wood present. These types of areas provide smallmouth bass with current breaks along with ambush points and protection they need during the cold water period. Also, look for areas where the current slows down or changes direction, such as behind rocks, near wing dams, laydowns or near the mouths of tributaries. These areas will often hold smallmouth bass that are feeding on bait such as minnows and crayfish.

A highly effective lure for catching winter smallmouths in rivers during is finesse-sized jig and pig (trailer) since it mimics both minnows and crayfish. 

This smaller jig option, consists of a weighted head with a rubber, silicone or hair skirt attached, making it a great option for fishing in colder water because it allows you to present the bait in a natural and lifelike manner. 

The pig or trailer part of the combo, consists of either a soft plastic crawfish or pork trailer, enhancing the action and scent-holding feature that entices smallmouth bass to striking. This highly flexible bait can be fished vertically or cast and worked back slowly on a straight or hopping retrieve depending on river conditions and mood of the bass.

Another effective technique to entice winter river smallmouths is the drop-shot rig. This rig consists of a weight attached to the end of your line with either a drop shot or worm style hook tied using a palomar knot a few inches to several inches above it. To complete the rig you add one of a variety of small soft plastic baits to the hook such as

> flatworm style baits;

> small soft jerkbaits;

> small minnow style baits;

> drop shot style worms; or

> finesse worms.

To see the different selection of baits available, click on the following link: Drop Shot Bait Options

The nature of the drop shot rig allows you to present your bait in a natural and lifelike manner, which is crucial in colder water temperatures. Just like the jig and pig, the drop shot can also be fished vertically or cast and retrieved slowly using a variety of actions to entice more strikes.

Next you'll need a sensitive and well balanced rod and reel combo,; my choice, a 6.5' to 7', medium power, fast action spinning rod and 2500 to 3000 size spinning reel, spooled with 6 lb to 8 lb fluorocarbon line (or braided line with fluorocrbon leader if you prefer). These line options are nearly invisible and very sensitive allowing you to feel even the lightest bites; a crucial factor when fishing in colder water temperatures.

It's very important to check expected weather conditions before hitting the water. When it's going to be extremely cold, you should dress in layers plus wear gloves, hat, and warm boots. Keeping an additional set of warm clothes in a dry bag is also important in case you get wet. It's also a great idea to have a good quality thermos with some warm drinks and food with you as well. Staying warm will not only make you more comfortable but help you remain alert, catch more fish, and stay safe while on the water!

Finally, it is important to remember that the key to success when river fishing for smallmouth bass during the winter is to be patient and persistent. It may take some time and effort to find the fish, but when you do, it is usually well worth the effort.