Hot fishing inc ooler temps
This week, a cold front (that is actually cold) will pass through the Lowcountry. Temperatures are forecast to drop into the 30-degree range. This will significantly cool the water, along with the outstanding Trout bite we have enjoyed for the past several weeks. It will take a few days for the Trout to settle into their winter pattern. Once they do, anglers that adjust their techniques will catch Trout consistently all winter long.
The first adjustment (post cold front) is to fish in deeper water. Look for Trout to be holding near channel ledges in 10 to 20 feet, where the barometric pressure and temperature are more stable.
The second adjustment is to fish small lures very slowly. For years, my favorite cold weather lure has been the Z-Man StreakZ (Ralph Shad) on a 3/16th ounce lead head jig. This combination is a consistent all-season producer that really shines after a cold front passes. A short snap of the rod followed by a long pause will usually illicit a strike from cold water Trout. The strike often occurs during the long pause. Remember, fishing slowly is a big part of the second adjustment. For the past several weeks, I have been experimenting with the Ned Rig, a small lure that is very popular with Midwest (where it is really cold) bass anglers. Results have been extremely positive (Trout love it). The Ned Rig will be one of my primary lures this winter. It is created by matching a Z-Man TRD (a small 2.5-inch lure) with a light mushroom head jig. My go to colors are California Craw and PB&J.
When fishing smaller lures, it helps a whole lot to down-size your tackle. Lighter tackle is essential for casting small lures and feeling the subtle wintertime strike (a very light tap). It is also a lot of fun to battle big Trout on light gear. I use a St. Croix Pan Fish rod (which is made for catching Bream) and a small 1000 frame reel (spooled with 8-10 pound PowerPro braid with a short 12-pound fluorocarbon leader).
Cold weather is here. However, with a few adjustments, the fishing is still pretty hot.
Contact Captain Greg Peralta at captgregp@gmail.com or call (843) 224-0099.