We are sure many of you will be looking to get back down by the water this January. A lot of people do stop fishing over the winter as the weather takes a turn for the worse and it becomes tougher to get out and angler. However fishing in the cold weather can prove a highly rewarding experience as freshwater fish group up, meaning more fish on your lure. If you are planning on fishing in the cold weather then at Taskers Angling we have put together a few steps you can take to get the most out of it.
First of all picking the right spot is vital. Some waters will have more fish in them in the winter than others, particularly waters that have predator fish such as pike as the cold months are when they come out more. Checking which fisheries near you stock plenty of predator fish is a good place to start. If you are not used to fishing in the cold then we would recommend using a fishery as it is a safer location to do so.
The weather can also have a big say on when you choose to go and fish in the cold. In the summer it is easier to stick too holidays and weekends but this flexibility can be narrowed in the cold weather. The weather can impact fishes activity levels. For example a cold front is a good time to go as fish feed just before they pass.
In the cold you also have to make sure you maintain your gear properly. Cold temperatures can freeze up your reels so it is important to maintain this and other pieces of gear as well. You should look at your line as well as water that collects on a line or in a rod guide can freeze over and prevent it from not working as well. Don't just think of the fishing gear though, think about what you need to stay warm and protected against the elements. Wrap up warm and wear clothes to keep you warm, such as coats, gloves and hats. We have a great selection of clothes you can look at on our website.
Picking the right bait which will suit the cold weather is also something that anglers must get right. Live bait is much better to use in the cold as they will react to the cold weather. Do be aware though some places will not allow you to use live bait so do check whether you can before going. Lures would not be recommended in the cold but if you do want to use them choose one that has hair or feathers attached as this will help maintain action in the cold water.
Finally but most importantly make sure that you keep yourself safe! If you are fishing in the cold on your own for the first time we would recommend going with someone, particularly if you are not visiting a fishery and going somewhere remote as well. As mentioned earlier make sure that you wrap up warm and take plenty of food and liquids with you. If you are fishing on a boat or close to the sea then do wear a life jacket. We have a page about angling safely so please do read that for more information.
We would love to see as many of you as possible try cold water fishing, particularly if you haven't already! If you have any questions about gear you need to take then please visit our Liverpool Store or give us a call on 01512606015.