Happy New Year!! It’s hard to believe it’s 2022 already!
Air temperatures were above average for December. Due to the lack of rain, the Shenandoah River and local lakes are low and crystal clear, which made fishing conditions very tough.
If conditions stay the same, fishing in January will be similar to the previous month of December when it comes to locating fish.
Water temperatures will continue to drop this month which will slow the bite. This doesn’t mean they will stop eating. Some of the biggest bass are caught over the next few months.
Just remember if you are fishing the Shenandoah River this month, bass will be hanging out in wintering holes. This will be the deepest section of the river that you’re fishing.
Lure selection for the next couple of months will be jigs with a chunk trailer, jerkbaits and small offerings such as Ned-rigs, and small grubs on a lead head hook.
With the clear water conditions, I would start with a jerkbait. Remember last month I said to use a slow jerk and pause motion. That will continue this month. And if you’re lucky enough to get three or four days of above average temperatures this could push bass into shallower pools especially where there are rocks and laydowns present.
If cabin fever starts to set in dress warm, put on that life jacket, be safe and just go fishing.
With the new year there will be resolutions made which probably won’t last a month. Maybe you have plans to go on a trip, or do something new, or maybe go fishing for the first time.
But what about God’s plans for us? Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
My prayer is that you’ll come to know the Lord this new year through his word, the Bible and prayer, and that you would come to know the plan and future that God has for you.
This is a very corrupt world we live in, but God is above all, and without his help it would be hard to go on.
How comforting to know that the Lord knows our hearts and has plans for us. God longs to give us a rich and satisfying life.
God bless you all!
Mike
