Cold Weather Fishing

The more time I spend on the water, the more I seem to become an amateur meteorologist. Fishing during the right type of weather can result in unbelievable action. From now through March we should expect periodic cold fronts from the north. As fall turns into winter, these frontal systems tend to hit us with less recovery time between them and with a greater change in temperatures.

Basically two different cold fronts hit Texas. The westward moving fronts (or Pacific fronts) change weather much less than those coming from due north (Arctic fronts). These Arctic fronts drop temperatures drastically. Usually fishing shuts off after fronts pass through; however, just before and during a frontal system passage, the change can result in a great day of catching bass.

After frontal systems, we have a high barometric pressure with no clouds and no wind. For bass fishermen, these are the worst in fishing conditions. Bay fishermen seem to be able to catch fish on these bluebird days. Planning fall fishing trips too far in advance can be a risky thing to do. Early fall generally has 5-7 days between fronts. Winter has 2-3 days between different fronts.

Fish are cold-blooded creatures. Their body temperature fluctuates with changing water temperature. If the water is too cold, it has the same affect as if it is too hot. Fish will become sluggish and not want to feed. Surface water temperatures in Texas lakes range from the mid 90's in summertime to the upper 40's to mid 50's in the winter. Fish can be caught at each end of this temperature spread, but somewhere in the middle is best. When surface water temperature is between 600 and 800 fishing is at its best. This is when all fish are more active. Whether you’re after freshwater or saltwater fish, the same basic rule applies.

Cold fronts will slowly hit Texas with cooler temperatures that chill the water. By November we usually get a cold front about every 4 days. Most fronts continue to drop water temperatures slightly, and when the water is right it seems you can catch them on anything. As the water cools in the bays, redfish start to migrate towards the gulf. They will bunch up in schools as they travel down the ship channels and jetties. If you can be in the right place you'll have constant action.

After the redfish move out, the flounder will follow. The first good cold front will start this movement. Best spots for flounder are shallow flats next to deep water that leads to the gulf. Freshwater fishermen will find lots of bass, crappie and catfish that will readily bite in cooler water. Try a fast moving lure to cover lots of water. For catfish, try floating your bait right off the bottom under a cork and let the wind drift the bait. This covers more water and makes it easier for catfish to find your offering.

Water temperature is critical to fish activity. Take my word for it; the best time of year to catch fish is when you can go fishing.