Trout school up in cold water and remain relatively stationary. They still have to feed, and they usually do so when there is a current created by tidal flows. They often seek out the deepest inshore water available and sit close to the bottom. The deeper water, while still cool will be comparatively warmer than the surface water on cold days.
I have been able to visit three specific locations in my area on any given day and simply catch tout until my arms got sore. That is no exaggeration. The fish really never moved and I have been able to find them there for the last three months.
I found them by following some simply rules.
- First, know the habits of these fish. They want the warmest water available in cold weather. Deeper water means warmer water.
- Second, know where the deeper water is located. You need deep water, like a hole on the outside bend of a creek , that is close to shallower water - perhaps a mud or oyster flat. The fish will migrate up into the shallower water if the day warms and the surface temperature rises. But they will always return to their deeper holes when the sun goes down.
- Third, always look to fish when the current is moving – that is when the tide is coming in or going out. Interestingly, one of my holes produces on an incoming tide – another is good on an outgoing tide.
- Last – always fish slow, deep and deliberate. These fish will be a bit lethargic in cold water and they tend not to chase a fast moving bait.
Finding these fish was easy for me because I have been fishing the local area for quite a number of years. I can sort of predict where the fish will be based on past experiences under similar circumstances. So, if you find fish where you are, take note of the circumstances – the tide, temperature, weather conditions, and time of year. Chances are much better than even that you can find them in the same location under the same conditions on a future trip or even next year.
