/ 
Winter behavior of predators
When water temperatures often drop below 8°C, predators such as pike, zander and perch reduce their movements to save energy. They often adopt deeper habitats and stay close to structures or points where prey is concentrated, such as breaks, old grass beds, submerged trees or rocky areas. Hunting periods are short and focused, usually in the middle of the day when the water is a little warmer.âeuros
Choice of lures
In winter, we recommend using larger lures than those used in the warm season, as predators seek easy, energetic prey. For example, swimbaits, bigbaits, spinnerbaits or soft lures of a size suited to their winter diet should be used. These more substantial and noisy lures are designed to arouse the interest of numb fish by displacing more water and producing more vibrations.âeuros
Bright or flashy colors are often more effective in deep or murky water, while more natural hues work in clear areas. Metal lures, the vertical and techniques such as the drop shot are highly appreciated for slow, precise fishing on fish that are often motionless or lying in ambush.âeuros
Techniques and animation
The animation should be slow, with frequent pauses, to avoid tiring the fish unnecessarily and maximize the chances of a reflex attack. Slow linear fishing (slow, regular retrieve) is a technique suited to this season. Vertical fishing is particularly recommended for probing breaks and plateaus, especially for pike-perch. We also recommend careful presentation, varying the depth and maintaining contact with the bottom using Texan or lead-pallet rigs.âeuros
A few additional tips
- Concentrate on areas known to shelter carnivores in winter: deep areas, natural shelters, areas of water influx or old grass beds.
- Adjust line size and reel brake to control fish without tiring them.
- Favour long, short sessions (games during the day) when the fish are more active.
- Be patient and persevering, because fishing can be slow but rewarding.
- Check weather conditions such as wind and temperature, which can influence the mobility of predators.âeuros
Fishing for predators with lures in winter is an exciting challenge which requires a fine understanding of fish behaviour, a strategic choice of tackle and slow, precise animation, as well as a good sense of observation of the environment. With this knowledge, you'll maximize your chances of a great catch even in the cold season.
