November proved to be a good month on the Shenandoah River. River conditions were just right. Stained water from recent rain, and water temperatures of 50 degrees is all it took for the big girls to start eating.
Reports I got from other anglers indicate there were a lot of big smallmouth bass and largemouth being caught. I actually got lucky enough to catch a few myself. Most of these bass were caught and released near Egypt Bend outside of Luray.
Anglers were having success with spinnerbaits, crankbaits and the old jig and pig.
What is to be expected in December? Water temperatures will continue to drop, which is favorable for smallmouth and largemouth bass. Past history has shown that big bass are caught during this month.
As water temperatures continue to drop bass will most likely be in or near their wintering holes. Occasionally fish will move up into shallow water to feed during mid-day as water temperatures warm-up around shallow rocky areas.
Wintertime lure selection is pretty simple. Jigs, tubes, jerkbaits and occasionally a crankbait. My go-to lures are the jig and pig and the jerkbait. You should work each of these lures with a slow presentation to start.
For jigs let them sit and soak, drag them slowly across rocks and wood, and twitch them very lightly. Work the jerkbait the same way, get it down deep and let it float and wait for a tick. You’ll want to jerk and pause, jerk and pause, and experiment with the duration of the jerk and pause often. This is how the bass like it this time of year.
Remember the best time to be on the water during the winter months is after a two- or three-day warming trend. Some days it will push fish into shallow water in search of a meal. And keep an eye out for baitfish. If baitfish are present most likely there are bass in the area.
During winter months be safe on the water and wear that life jacket.
In Luke’s account of the Christmas story, an angel announced the birth of Jesus, to the shepherds saying, do not be afraid, I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. Today in the town of David, a savior has been born to you, he is the Messiah, the Lord (Luke 2: 10-11). And it wasn’t joy for just a few people, but for all. And no matter where we find ourselves today, with all the struggles of this world, Jesus has penetrated our dark world with his joy and light.
God loves each and every one of us. John 3:16 says, for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son. Joy to the world. The Lord is come.
Merry Christmas and God Bless you all!
Mike
