The best time of year to get out and scount where the good bass fishing will be come spring. A great time of year to get out on the water and identify structure and areas for the spawn and spring fishing.
Kevin VanDam checks out the gravel bars and shallow humps just visually looking when water levels are lower, grass and structure sighting.
Winter is a crucial time for bass fishing, especially when the water levels drop, revealing key underwater structures.
This is a great opportunity to study the lakebed and prepare for the prespawn and spring fishing seasons. By observing and marking critical structures now, you can set yourself up for success when the water rises again.
Why Winter is the Best Time to Scout
With the lake level down, many normally submerged structures become visible. This allows anglers to identify essential fishing spots such as:
- Shallow bars and humps – These areas often serve as staging points for bass before they move into spawning areas.
- Gravel bars and shell humps – These structures just outside creeks and spawning bays are prime locations to find bass in the prespawn period.
- Logs, stumps, and other cover – Natural cover like these can be prime holding spots for fish once the water rises again.
By scouting these areas in winter, you gain a clear understanding of where fish will likely position themselves after winter and into the prespawn season.
The Importance of Grass Beds
Another key factor to consider is grass. During winter, the existing grass dies back, revealing where new growth will emerge in the spring. This is important because:
- Fresh grass is a magnet for baitfish, which in turn attract bass.
- Knowing where grass will grow helps you anticipate fish movements in the coming months.
Now is the perfect time to mark these locations using GPS, take videos, or capture photos for future reference. This ensures that when the water level rises, you’ll still know exactly where to target.
Prespawn Bass Fishing
Winter scouting is one of the most overlooked yet valuable techniques for bass fishing. By taking advantage of low water levels, you can locate hidden structures, anticipate fish movements, and be fully prepared for the prespawn and spring seasons.
Whether using GPS, video recordings, or photos, gathering this information now will give you a major edge when it’s time to fish.
So next time you’re on the water in winter, take a moment to study the terrain, it could make all the difference in your next fishing trip!
