This is another chance for you guys to write an article. I'd like to know what lures/techniques you prefer to use at various times throughout the year.

Take jigs. I've read that in cold water people dig out hair jigs. I got the impression that this is the only time they use hair jigs. Why? Why wouldn't a hair jig work as well as a "normal" jig in warmer water?

My understanding is that jigs are one lure that can work at any time of the year, but is there one time of year better suited for jigs?

I watched the Gary Dobyns video where he mentions he prefers to fish jerkbaits in colder water...from around 40 deg. to something like 45 deg., if I remember correctly. How about you guys/gals?

I've always had good luck with spinnerbaits, so one gets used every time I go out. Is there a "best" time of year to use them?

This is the type of information I am looking for. Okay guys, sharpen your pencils and start writing.

Spinnerbaits have always produced for me in the spring when there is some flooded grass, and bushes.

There isn't any need to re-invent the wheel on this subject. This site has lots of articles dealing with seasonal patterns and different techniques to try. Read all those first. Go to the In-fisherman magazine web site and sift through their archives on seasonal patters and different techniques. That'll get you started.

I've read some of the articles on this site. However, I've never been on the in-fisherman magazine web site. I'll check it out. The problem with individual articles is just that...individual articles. Takes quite awhile to read thru them all. It'll be until next fall before I get through half of them! I was kind of hoping for something a little more concise.

I wasn't looking for a 1000 word "how to" dissertation on each technique. More along the lines like "I fish frogs in June and July, Jitterbugs summer evenings, jerkbaits in March-April and again In October-November." Something like that. Then if I decided to fish frogs, I'd know not to bother in January-February here in the Northeast. I would then research rods/lines/reels/colors, etc. This is just a far out example. I am smart enough to know frogs aren't going to be trying out a new pair of skates on a frozen lake. They would be riding an ATV and testing the latest in helmets and snowsuits!

It's very much a preference thing for some baits. I fish jerkbaits, blades, and jigs year round. Those are constants for me. Everything else depends on the water, the temps, and where I am. I may fish a Wart in 52 degree water on some lakes, and I may fish other cranks when it's far below the temperature that conventional wisdom says.

It comes down to experience and time on the water, really. You can read, and read, and read about patterns and get an idea, but ultimately it's on the water experience that is going to lead you to be able to identify the times that you should be throwing specific baits.

Thanks Hooligan for the insight. I was looking for that Magic Pill. You know, like that one where you lose 50 lbs. without changing your diet or exercising habits.

I just can't get the time on the water that I'd like. Especially since I started working a second job last year. Then when I do get a free day I sometimes would rather get a bit of rest instead of time on the water. That's what happens when you get over the hill.