Some nice bass can still be caught during the winter

Gunlock Reservoir - Gunlock , Utah (Washington County)


by Utah Division of Wildlife
11-21-2024
Website

Fishing forecast (December through March): Consult the Utah State Parks website for winter boat ramp hours. Winter fishing pressure is light at Gunlock Reservoir as largemouth bass become less active during the cold months. Some nice bass can still be caught during the winter, though they are typically found in deep water (20-40 feet) and generally respond only to slow presentations. Warm, sunny days are best since bass are very sensitive to inclement weather. Bluegill and black crappie are often more active during the winter, so you may find some fair fishing if you can find a school of panfish. Look for bluegill and crappie to be suspended over deeper water, often hanging out near the edge of drop-offs. 

Note: For cold-weather bass fishing, remember that largemouth bass are often found in deep water (20-40 feet) during the winter. Bass brought up from depths over 20 feet often struggle to swim back down because the air bladder overinflates with lessening water pressure at the surface. Some anglers like to "fizz" the fish by inserting a needle in the fish's side and deflating the air bladder. While the fish may swim away, this is highly discouraged because puncturing the air bladder makes it difficult for the fish to regulate its buoyancy until the puncture heals. Also, there is a high chance you may puncture other organs and infections may occur at the wound or internally. A better alternative is to use a descending device or a weighted milk crate tied upside down to a rope to carry the fish back down to the depth where you caught it. 





More Reports

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Reports
for Wednesday, November 20th

Clear Creek: Fishing forecast
Beaver River: Fishing forecast
Minersville Reservoir: Fishing forecast
Baker Reservoir: Fishing forecast: Baker Reservoir is generally ice-free through the winter
Enterprise Reservoir- Upper: Safe ice often forms on Upper Enterprise Reservoir in mid-to-late December
Forsyth Reservoir : Access is often the biggest challenge to winter fishing


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