Top 4 Lures for January Bass
Keith Lusher 01.20.25
Like most anglers, I find myself second-guessing my lure selection when during the winter months. While I’m confident in my go-to baits for spring, summer, and fall, I’ve learned that the frigid waters of January present unique challenges that call for a different approach.
Before I share my favorite lures, I think it’s important to understand how January conditions affect bass behavior. Bass have already completed their fall feeding frenzy by this time, having packed on weight in preparation for winter’s lean months. Their metabolism has slowed significantly by now, so the bass aren’t eating as much as in the other months.
I’ve noticed two key factors that influence bass behavior in January. Cold water temperatures drive bass to congregate in deeper, warmer areas – I typically find them toward the center of lakes and ponds. Another thing that I’ve noticed is water clarity increases significantly due to reduced algae growth, making bass more selective about what they eat.
My Top 4 Lures for January Bass
1. Suspending Jerkbait
I’ve found the suspending jerkbait particularly effective in January’s cold waters. While bass won’t actively chase fast-moving crankbaits, I’ve had great success with well-presented jerkbaits. Personally, I love the Shimano Zumverno 95 SP, which I’ve found offers superior casting distance and realistic shad appearances. In my experience, matching your jerkbait to the local shad population is crucial. I’ve learned that winter’s clear water gives bass plenty of time to inspect your bait between jerks, so realism is key.
2. Downsized Jigs
While I use jigs throughout the year, I take a specific approach in January. I’ve had great success with the Strike King ⅛-ounce Bitsy Bug in black and blue. The reduced size and weight are perfect for the slow, methodical presentations that winter bass prefer.
3. Finesse Worm
I absolutely love drop-shot rigged finesse worms for January’s challenging conditions. My go-to choice is the 4.5-inch Zoom Finesse Worm in Black Grape, which I’ve found incredibly effective. I’ve learned that, unlike summer techniques, winter success requires an ultra-slow presentation – I barely drag it across the bottom rather than using aggressive pops or jerks.
4. Stick Bait on Ned Rig
This is probably my favorite setup for January bass fishing – the 2.75-inch Z-Man TRD on a Ned Rig. This compact package perfectly mimics cold-water baitfish, and I love how it allows for the slow, deliberate presentations winter bass demand.
These four lures have consistently proven their worth in frigid weather. Remember, winter bass require a slower, more deliberate presentation than their warm-weather counterparts. By downsizing your baits and focusing on deeper water, you can turn those challenging winter months into productive fishing trips. While other anglers may be waiting for spring, you’ll be out there making the most of January’s crystal-clear waters and the selective but catchable bass that await.