I fish a reservoir in Colorado that's heavy in Smallmouths. We have all 3 black bass but smallmouths are by far the dominant Bass. 

 

The water temperature is 38.5° as of 3 days ago. Only the backs of some of the shallower coves are frozen.

 

I recently purchased a Pond Prowler (small plastic bass boat w an electric trolling motor) and I have access to the reservoir that I haven't previously had.

 

We have air temps in the mid to high 50s today and for the next 3 days before a cool-off.

 

I haven't previously fished in the winter but I believe I have a favorable set of circumstances - and now access to being out on the water.

 

1) Is 38.5° water "warm" enough to target Smallmouths?

 

2) What time of day increases my chances?

 

3) What parts of the lake/lake features should I be concentrating my efforts?

 

4) What 3 or 4 presentations should I focus on?

 

Any tips/suggestions/feedback much appreciated. 

Hair jig,Straight out and straight back to you.Darker colors work well.Suspending jerkbaits do good in cold water.A small swim jig Reeled close to the bottom.Go slow there as cold as we are.

1. Definitely 

2. Either first thing or later in the afternoon when the water warms

3. North and western facing rocky banks that will warm throughout the day and where winds will push bait—Bluff wall ends, riprap, long tapering points.

4. Drag a Football jig or splitshot rig slowly.  Ned rig.  Pump a silver buddy or ratltrap off the bottom.  Good luck man!

Step one wear a life jacket . Step 2 stay near the banks so if you fall in you can get out very quickly. Good lure and technique suggestions above, I would add a small gulp minnow on a jighead and a small tube jig

Sworming Hornet/ LFT Live Magic Shad

 

A 3" Charlie Brewer Slider Grub on a slider jig. Slow roll it along the bottom. You'll get bit. Jerkbaits work as well, but I don't have the patience for the long waits (20 - 30 sec.) in between small twitches.

A blade bait on bottom would be my first choice for sure. Try both chrome and gold.

And of course a Ned rig = green pumpkin TRD on a 1/10 Shroomz head

Just now, Smokinal said:

A blade bait on bottom would be my first choice for sure. Try both chrome and gold

Mine Too ~ 

A-Jay

13 hours ago, Smokinal said:

And of course a Ned rig = green pumpkin TRD on a 1/10 Shroomz head

That would be my choice. I have caught winter Smallmouth deadsticking a Ned rig.