I live in southwest Virginia and the temperature have been ranging from 30-65 degrees over the past two weeks, it snowed quite a bit today however next week is supposed to be near 70 all week. With that said I plan on going to fish the new river. I expect the water to be cold 45-55 degrees. What baits and areas should I fish? I plan on using small tubes, jerkbaits, football jigs, and fish near some small islands that split the river. Am i right in doing so or am i missing something?

Sounds like you have it covered. Only thing I can think of is a small rattle trap or blade bait yo-yo'd on the bottom if the situation calls for it.

I'd definitely use a blade bait such as the Silver Buddy. Vertically jig it along bottom structures, especially bends and/or turns in that structure. I also like using a heavy jig - 3/4 & larger - dressed with a 5" Swing Impact (FAT) paddle tail. I cast this out and slow roll it back to the boat. Very effective techniques.

I'm pretty sure my first smallie of the year will be off a Mini-Trap or Rattling Rap or possibly some pattern of a Rapala countdown husky jerk style jerkbait.

I'll be on the river soon (not the New) buy don't figure it will be caught in real shallow water.

Starting to Jones a bit about going. Just had Carpal Tunnel surgery on Monday. I'm a few weeks out but I'm always ready.

Gold w/ black back, Silver w/ black back, Chrome w/ blue or black back, Pearl w/ blue back. As long as it's not high heavy stained water this will work for me.

 

 I have a few strike king micro spinner baits, a few larger spinnerbaits and xcalibur rattle baits so I'll definitely bring those thanks!