Winter

Around mid-December each year, a strong cold front brings the arrival of true winter. Although the water temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, Lake Biwa never freezes, allowing for year-round fishing. While bass become less active during winter, they still need to feed to survive, so there are still opportunities to catch them.

The smaller bass that were more active during the fall become sluggish due to the cold, and the number of bites decreases. However, the fish you do catch during this season tend to be in excellent condition, making winter an ideal time to possibly break your personal record. Slow presentations like deep cranking, vertical jigging, and finesse rigs are most effective.