Opportunities remain for open water fishing

Normally, the idea of fishing around the holiday season would be more focused on ice fishing. In this historically mild December, however, we have only seen some trace skim ice on local waterways and no measurable snowfall to this point meaning ice fishing is still only something that we can sit around and wait for.

If you are jonesing to get back on the water to enjoy some fishing, it is possible. However, you may have to alter your approach and target species in order to feel a tug.

Check out these tips for locating what can be a hot bite in this cooler weather.

Live bait catfish

Catfish and cold water might not be the most synonymous pair in fishing, but hard-core cat anglers know better than anyone that the time is ripe for catching giants.

As water temperatures drop, catfish become hunters, and if you take advantage of that, you'll be able to find some of the best blue, flathead and channel catfish fishing of the year.

Live bait is the name of the game when it comes to late-season catfishing. Whether it be shiners, shad, sunfish, suckers, chubs or bullheads, the key to this bite is to present catfish a live, active bait that will pique their interest.

To find these transitioning fish, you will want to focus on the deep holes and riverbank dens that catfish like to winter in.

Deep structure white bass

While most anglers like to target white bass during the spring, there is a lot left on the table by not targeting them in the winter months.

Nomadic by nature, white bass like to hunker down and go deep during cold periods. By targeting deep structure, you can have yourself a great day of action with the possibility of catching a personal best white bass.

To properly take advantage of this pattern, you need to have access to deeper water. White bass will roll into depths in excess of 20 feet, particularly in areas with humps, rock or wood. Once you find a good spot, vertically jig with blade baits, jigging raps or jigs and plastics. These baits do a great job at emulating forage species white bass love.

Scavengers smorgasbord

There is a growing love in the angling community for lesser-known species like sturgeon, bowfin and gar. Whether it is because these fish are living relics of the prehistoric age, or the fact they fight like a runaway train, they are fun to duke it out with. Also, they are easy to catch if you have access to them, just have a lot of bait ready.

To locate any of the above species, target dams, tailwaters and tributaries. Sturgeon, bowfin and gar will use these areas as a buffet of sorts, and the best way to target them is to give them a buffet.

All three species love to scavenge for stuff that hangs out on the bottom, including worms and dead fish. Presenting these kinds of baits off the bottom will have your drag peeling in no time.