Strike King pro Dakota Ebare expects the water temperature to play a huge role in fishing conditions in Zone 1 in January.
“Winter water temperatures in the 55- to 65-degree range will be a big factor in fishing conditions,” shares Ebare. Ebare foresees a normal winter pattern in Zone 1 during January. “I expect a typical winter pattern where fish will be relating to drains, depressions, and the vegetation or cover that surrounds those areas,” explains Ebare.
Filler Worm
If the water is clear, Suggs prefers Morning Dawn. In stained water, he switches to Magic. For muddy water, he will favor Tequila Sunrise Orange Flake.
“This is a big deal in October with any lake that has standing timber. I’m using to a 3/16 oz. to a ¼ oz. weight in 25-to 30-feet of water. I cast past the timber and essentially swim the dropshot slowly through the timber. It’s truly an incredible bite,” says Suggs.
Ebare’s choice for clear water is the KVD J300 Pro Blue, while he opts for Chartreuse Sexy Shad if the water is stained. In muddy water, Ebare opts for the Pro Bone.
Diving up to 7-feet, the KVD J300 has great castability, 3D eyes, and premium black nickel hooks for lethal action. Anglers from coast to coast keep the J300 on the boat deck this time of year.
Tour Grade Skipping Jig
He opts for the Green Pumpkin Tour Grade Skipping Jig in clear water, and switches to a Black Blue if the water is stained.
Designed for skipping under docks, the Tour Grade Skipping Jig has a uniquely shaped head with strong Gamakatsu hooks for solid hooksets. The Rodent trailer is extremely flat for efficient skipping and easy maneuvering through vegetation.
5XD Crankbait
If the water is clear, he will throw a Chartreuse Sexy Shad, while stained and muddy water call for a Chartreuse Blue Back Splatter.
The curved bill of the 5XD causes faster and deeper dives, making it a top choice in Ebare’s line up.
Strike King Tour Grade Spinnerbait
He opts for Mouse in clear water. If the water is stained, he will throw the White, while he will switch to a Chartreuse/White if the water is muddy.
A proven go-to bait in the fall and winter months, the Tour Grade Spinnerbait can be fished at virtually any depth and any speed.