Fishing before a front passes through can be a fantastic opportunity to catch big bass. Fish will put on their feed bags prior to a front passing and can be caught with relative ease.
Post front conditions are often a whole different story. During the winter months and early spring, the combination of post frontal conditions and cold water can discourage even the best fisherman. After a front passes fish will stop actively feeding and wait for conditions to stabilize.
This does not mean they cannot be caught.
There are several techniques anglers can utilize to catch fish under these difficult conditions. The first of which to keep in mind is to fish slowly. Slow down the lure presentation and then slow it down even further.
In cold, post frontal conditions bass will not be willing to move great distances to chase a lure. They may even be unwilling to move short distances to chase a lure. Commonly, the solution to this is completely deadsticking the lure.
Another technique to utilize is referred to as downsizing the lure. If a seven inch plastic worm was used with success prior to the front, try switching to a four inch version of the same bait.
Lastly, take advantage of the reaction bite. A reaction bite is when a bass, who isn’t actively feeding, will strike a lure if caught off guard. A bass will frequently act out of instinct and bite a lure that crosses right in front of its face.
The best way to maximize the chances of initiating a reaction bite is to make lots of casts to the same area. Often when flipping to a downed tree or a dock a fish will not strike unless the lure is presented at just the right angle. After the flip, let the lure sit for several seconds before making a new pitch.
Post cold front conditions can be mind-numbingly slow and tedious, but anglers who utilize these tips and techniques can have great success.
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