Mid-Coast Bays: January 2025

Most people, me included, look at the beginning of a New Year as a fresh start and a new beginning. And while many will be looking to make New Year’s resolutions, most anglers are viewing January as a time that can be challenging to fish but capable of yielding big results. I am often asked whether I fish during the coldest months and, if I do, is it any good? My answer is always a very resounding, “You bet I do, and it can be great if you plan appropriately!”

January is definitely a month when you really need to watch the weather forecast. Cold fronts become more frequent and some days can be pretty chilly for fishing. Arriving to the coast with northerly winds gusting 30-plus mph and super low tides can make for some very rough fishing conditions. But if you watch the forecast, you will find there will also be some pleasant days to be out on the bay.

The best window of opportunity to fish during winter is usually two to three days after a cold front has passed through. By this time the wind has usually calmed down to a more suitable level for easier fishing. The problem I often find this time of year is locating water that isn’t “too” clear. Yep, you read that right. Cooler water temperatures, less grass, lower water levels, and fewer microorganisms can make for some very clear water. Many areas will be like looking through an aquarium. You will find very few bait fish in these waters, and even fewer game fish.

When fish are trying to feed they look for some type of structure where their prey will be trying to hide. Grassy areas are normally good structure to fish but this time of year most of the submerged grass has died. Sandy shorelines with well-defined guts are usually a good go-to, but not now. Water covering sandy bottoms is typically cooler now, so fish are looking for darker, muddier bottoms that hold daytime heat a little better. Oyster reefs are very good areas to look for feeding fish but the best type of structure you will find me looking for during this cold time is off-colored water.

 Off-colored water is where you will likely find not only greater numbers of mullet, but also the fish that like to eat them. The degree of color will vary from one area of the bay to the next. I do not shy away from murky or even muddy water when I find it. What will change depending on the clarity of the water is the color of my bait.

If I am fishing an area that is only slightly off-color I will stick with more natural-colored baits. By natural I mean something like Bass Assassins 4” Sea Shad in Mama’s Chicken or Chicken on a Chain. If I find water that is quite muddy compared to the surrounding area I will opt for darker colors like Magic Grass or Electric Blue/Limetreuse. Speaking of limetreuse tails, I will always opt for brightly colored tail when fishing off-colored water. Just remember, the darker the water the darker the bait.

Keep in mind that a slower presentation is usually best when trying to entice fish to bite in cold water. I slow my retrieve down to pretty much a bottom-bumping speed whenever there are no bites coming from the upper half of the water column. Slow-sinking and suspending baits often work extremely well, too. Baits like the Corky Soft Dine XL or MirrOlure’s Catch 2000 are good options when a slower presentation is necessary.

Fishing during January and February can be tricky to schedule but if you can plan your fishing trips around the weather you will see just how rewarding it can be. Honestly, I think all anglers should experience all the seasons here on the Mid Coast. Every season has its advantages and disadvantages but making an effort in each of them will make you a better all-around angler.

Before I close out my first article of 2025, I would like to share that Gary and I have accepted positions of Brand Ambassador with Southerly Fishing. Southerly Fishing’s mission is to provide anglers high-quality, purpose-built fishing gear for the coastal environment. All their products are rigorously tested to make sure they stand up to the harshest marine conditions. Engineered for the salt, designed for the catch. Please check them out at www.southerlyfishing.com.

Happy 2025 Everyone!