I was wondering if catfishing in the winter between 45 to 55 degree water temps is much different from in the summer months and what I should be looking for in underwater structure and what type of bait to use. I was planning on using mostly shrimp and some chicken livers.

I'm getting the itch to take my boat out so I'm thinking maybe tomorrow me and a buddy will hit buggs island here in VA and would like to hook up with a few decent cats so any advice would be great! Thanks!

Studies show that in temps below 55 degrees, cats eat about 1/10th of what they would eat in 70-90 degree weather.

I wouldn't.

8-)

when i fish for cats in the winter i try and find a deep hole or fish by any hotwater discharges. i like using fresh caught shad or skipjacks. i also like using lively bluegills also

First thing is think small. Your bait needs to be small. In the winter they don't want to work for their food and want something very easy. If you can you need to find deep holes and throw your bait right in that hole. In the summer the cats will find the bait. In the winter you have to find the cats. If you can find a good deep hole that is holding a lot of cats then you can have a good day. It's not easy fishing for cats in the winter but can be done.