It’s pretty well known that if you find weeds, there will be fish in them or nearby. That holds true for the winter as well, and there are way fewer weeds to search through. The battle can be finding standing weeds, as most weeds have died and settled to the bottom.
In the winter, you will usually be looking for weeds in less than 12 feet of water, but don’t overlook some of the scattered weeds that may extend out a little deeper. As weed structure is diminished, it doesn’t always take much cover to hold fish or at least have them hanging out in the general area.
Perch and sunfish are usually the most plentiful in and around weeds but you can also typically find some crappies in the area as well. Sometimes crappies will have a shorter feeding window or only move in during lowlight periods. With all these smaller fish in the weeds, you’re bound to have predators such as northerns, bass, and walleyes also cruising the area. This leaves a good opportunity to run a second set-line such as a minnow on a dead stick, rattle reel, or a tip-up. I also like to have a bigger lure ready to drop down when I see larger marks coming through on the sonar.
Go check out some of those thick weed beds you fished during the open water season and see what remains. This can be a great way to get away from the crowds of people in the community holes. Make sure to check ice conditions as you venture around the lake.
Good Luck Fishing and Stay Safe!
J Rev Outdoors
320-761-0685
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