Winter Fishing Tips from BoatU.S.
Hints to Help Ensure Safety and Catch Fish in Cold Weather
A few hints for better winter fishing and boating safety in cold water from BoatU.S. Anglers.
BoatU.S. Angler represents an effort by the Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatU.S.) to enhance the benefits provided to its members that fish. Outreach efforts include hosting fishing seminars at trade shows, sponsoring the National Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship, on the water towing insurance. The Angler website offers fishing tips and techniques to improve catches, information on boating safety, online classified advertising, and suggestions for the location of your next fishing trip. Safety suggestions are supported by the organizations history of claims made through their insurance program.
Top Ten Tips for Winter Fishing From BoatU.S. Angler
- Check Your Fish - The presence of silt on the bellies of fish shows they are holding the bottom. Take more time in presenting your bait. Focus on deep water close to shore and fish structure vertically
- Never Fish Alone - There are fewer people on the water during the winter and fewer boaters able to assist you in an emergency. Wear your PFD and file a float plan with someone you trust
- Use a Line Conditioner - Use of a line conditioner can keep line free of ice. Use of a smaller diameter, low stretch line will help reduce line resistance
- Dress Appropriately - Wear clothing in layers and avoid cotton at all costs. Use wool or synthetic materials
- Use Fish Attractants - Cold-water fish move slowly and use of an attractant like herring oil will encourage them to mouth bait longer
- Exercise Good Nutrition - Carry energy rich foods and warm drinks to avoid dehydration in the cold, dry winter air. Avoid the use of alcohol, it promotes dehydration and increases heat loss from the body
- Cold Water Safety - Wear a life jacket at all times while onboard your vessel. There will not be enough time to don one after a fall into the water. Wearing a life jacket buys time for a successful rescue. Consider your man overboard procedures and discuss them with your passengers
- Check the Weather - According to the Coast Guard statistics cited by BoatU.S. Angler, the colder months of January and February pose the greatest risk of fatality to boaters. Check the marine weather forecast prior to leaving the marina
- Prevent Freeze Damage - Disconnect helm gauges (i.e. speed and water pressure) that contain water to prevent damage from freezing. Boaters that use outboard engines should trim them fully down, and turn the engine over for a few seconds to force remain water out of them after leaving the launch ramp. Be sure to pull the engine kill switch before doing this and trim the motor back up for safe travel.
- Invasive Species - Wash down your boat and gear, removing mud and plant remains before leaving the launch ramp. Allow your boat and gear to dry a couple to dry prior to fishing in new waters
The copyright of the article Winter Fishing Tips from BoatU.S. in Boating & Sailing is owned by Alan Sorum. Permission to republish Winter Fishing Tips from BoatU.S. must be granted by the author in writing.
