Wintertime Fishing at Lake Powell: Tips for Catching Stripers, Smallies, and Walleye in Cooler Conditions

As of December 26, 2024, Lake Powell is experiencing a mix of winter conditions that can affect fishing, though the lake does not have tidal reports since it is a freshwater lake.

### Weather and Time
The current weather at Lake Powell is characterized by cooler temperatures, with daytime highs in the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit and nighttime lows in the mid-20s to low 30s. Sunrise is around 7:30 AM, and sunset is approximately 4:45 PM.

### Fish Activity
During the winter months, fish activity can be more subdued due to the cooler water temperatures. However, species like striped bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye can still be active. Striped bass tend to move deeper in the fall and winter, often found in depths of 60-90 feet where the water temperature is around 64 degrees[2].

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Yesterday's catches likely included striped bass, smallmouth bass, and possibly some walleye. Striped bass are common in the winter, with average sizes ranging between 3-4 pounds. Smallmouth bass can be found year-round, but they are more active in cooler waters, typically in areas with rocks and vegetation[2][3].

### Best Lures and Bait
For winter fishing at Lake Powell, using trollers and jiggers is highly effective. For striped bass, cut dead anchovies or shad imitations can work well. Smallmouth bass can be targeted with micro jigs (1/32 to 1/100 oz) that imitate natural food, or with small red worms, crickets, or crayfish[2][3].

### Hot Spots
- **Padre Bay**: Known for its deep waters, this area is ideal for catching large striped bass. Trolling near the submerged canyon walls is a popular technique here[3].
- **Wahweap Bay**: Located near the Wahweap Marina, this bay is a good starting point for fishing adventures and is particularly good for smallmouth bass. It offers easy access to other fruitful fishing areas[3].

### Additional Tips
Early morning and evening fishing are usually the best times due to lower light levels. Keep an eye out for baitfish schools, birds, and long shad lines, as these can indicate active feeding areas. Binoculars can be useful for spotting feeding stripers from a distance[1].

Overall, while winter conditions may slow down some fish activity, Lake Powell still offers excellent fishing opportunities for those willing to adapt to the cooler temperatures and deeper fish habitats.