When I talk cold water, I am talking about water 50 degress or less. The bass don't quit eating at this temperature but one thing is for sure, they slow down. As the water temps fall so is the chance that a bass will chase a bait for a meal.

When the water temperature gets in the 40's, your bait has to be right in front of the bass and they have to almost be forced fed just to get them to take the bait. This is when you might want to put those big lures away and offer them something small.

So, what kind of lure are you going to use? How about small hair jigs and soft plastic grubs? These imitate cold water pray in cold water. Deer hair is hollow and allows the jig to fall slower. These do good in the rocks and bluffs where water is at least 10 feet deep. If the water is less than 50 degrees try these jigs with a little piece of pork.

Here's the deal, when fishing these lures in cold water, the bass aren't going to chase it. So cast, let it drop and bring it along the bottom very slowly for 10-12 feet then reel it in for another cast. The pick-up of the little lure will probably be subtle.

Everyone seems to like dark colored jigs but if the water is clear or the bass' main food is shad then try a white hair jig. If the bass are feeding on crayfish mainly in the summer then try a brown or drab green color in cold water.

Also, remember this, rocks radiate the sun warmth. Fishing rocks with these jigs can be deadly. Some other good material to use for jigs is badger, rabbit, coyote and squirrel hair.

Light to medium light rods are good for fishing jigs and grubs. Line 4-6 pounds seem to be the thing but if fishing a lock of rocks then you can go to 10 pound test line.

Just remember to fish slow, don't think the bass are going to chase your bait very far, if at all and leave the bait in front of them longer than you normally would.

Try fishing with hair jigs and small grubs, it may just surprise you.

Good Fishing To You.

Charles E. White has fished 50 years for bass from California to Florida. In his lifetime, it is estimated that he has caught over 6,000 bass. His biggest bass is a 12 pound 14 ounce that hangs on his wall in his office. His tips and techniques have helped many people who have never fished for bass before become successful anglers. He also has fished with the Pros in Florida. His website is at: http://www.bassfishingweekly.com/track/tracker.cgi?freecontent