I am fishing in Oregon lakes and its hard to catch a limit year around but in the winter months it's impossible to get a bite.

I need some ideas to try next time I am out fishing.

Here is the scenario:

We fish the coastal lakes this time of year because the temps are more stable and they don't draw the lakes down.

Last 2 weeks the temps have been going up a little into 50s. Water temp is around 45-46 and clear (5 feet of vis.). We are fishing a natural lake with lots of grass. Grass is underwater and seems to be dead. There are train trusses, steep rock banks and lots of timber.

I can't find any fish activity on my electronics and in general there is no shad in these lakes. Main food seem to be trout and purch. I know there is fish there because last years feb turnys were bringing in 25# bags for first 2-3 spots and 0s for the rest. The fish seem to be caught in grass by steep banks or ledges.

I tried everything that I know so far. Used lipless cranks, chatter bait, wacky rigged senko, drop shot. I get the bait fouled with grass and that's it most of the time.

I appreciate any ideas you guys might have for me to trythank uou

Here are some topics on winter fishing from the BassResource Library, "Fishing Articles" at the top of the page.

 

http://www.bassresource.com/seasonal-fishing-articles#winter

I went out on Dec. 29th on Lake Washington in Seattle and got a nice 3-11 Smally on a dropshot with a 3 foot length between the weight and the bait...this I believe allowed the fish to see the bait from a distance and with a very slow presentation seems to get the most bites. The fish was in 47ft of water so a quick weight, pic and down he went back to the bottom. Two other boats from my club each caught 3 Smallies from 40+ feet on the same presentation. I use 8 lb mono and place a swivel about 2 ft above the hook to help with line twist.