Lake Powell Fishing in Winter: Tips for Catching Bass, Walleye, and Crappie

As of January 25, 2025, Lake Powell is offering some great fishing opportunities despite the colder winter conditions. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Conditions
The water temperature is currently around 47°F, which means fish are likely to be in deeper water and less active due to slower metabolisms[4].
The water clarity is generally clear, especially during the winter months, making natural presentations and lighter lines essential to avoid spooking the fish[4].

### Weather
The weather has been predominantly clear to partly cloudy with low precipitation, and windy conditions are expected on certain days. This stable weather should help stabilize fish behavior, while the wind can stir up baitfish, creating advantageous situations[4].

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:15 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing strategy.

### Fish Activity
Given the cooler water temperatures, fish such as bass and walleye will be less active and may require slower presentations. However, striped bass can still be caught, especially in deep water. Crappie remain active in the fall and winter, particularly around submerged trees[1][4].

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Yesterday, anglers reported catching several species. Walleye were found in good numbers on the north end of the lake, particularly near Blue Notch and Red Canyon, with sizes ranging from 3 to 4 pounds[1].
Crappie were abundant in the San Juan Arm, with multiple age classes and sizes up to 12-15 inches. Striped bass, including a notable 22-pound catch recently, can be found in deeper waters, especially during the evening and night[1][2].

### Best Lures and Bait
For walleye, trolling with crankbaits or bottom bouncers trailing spinners with a worm is effective. Casting crankbaits or plastic grubs tipped with night crawlers also works well[5].
For crappie, using 2.5-inch gulp minnows and white feather jigs around submerged trees in 20-30 feet of water is recommended[1].
For striped bass, cut dead anchovies or heavy spoons are good choices, especially when targeting them in deep water during the winter months[2][5].

### Hot Spots
- **Rincon Bay**: This area has been productive for striped bass, with clear water making it a bit challenging but rewarding for those who persist[1].
- **San Juan Arm**: This is a great spot for crappie, with numerous submerged trees where crappie tend to congregate[1].

In summary, while the cold weather slows down fish activity, targeting the right depths and using the appropriate lures and bait can still yield a successful fishing trip at Lake Powell. Keep an eye on the wind and use it to your advantage, and don’t forget to check the lake levels and access points before you head out. Happy fishing