How long after the ice is gone to start fishing?

[omahabasser]

Yesterday it hit well over 70 and all of the ice on one of my favorate ponds melted away. As soon as I came home from work I grabbed a pole and went out for the first time this year. Didn't get one bite.

How soon can I expect the fishing to pick up?

[JB]

actually anytime after the ice is over you can find bass in the warmest water getting some sun..(in theory) I think most anglers are too gung ho
(me included) and fish way to fast...but the fish will bite all year long if its in front of them and slow enough..look for the northeast corner of a body of water, the angle of the sun will allow that area to warm up first, so if theres shallow water near, I'd hit that. I'd say once the water is mid to uppers 40's the bite should be better.

[omahabasser]

Thanks. That corner of my pond had what little ice was remaining pushed into it. I will try again this week. As of this morning every inch if it was gone.

I will remember to fish S-L-O-W-!-!-!

[pig n jig]

Use lure presentations that are not of alot of action, more subtle.For instance a ribbon tail worm, or lizard will give you alot of action from little movement.Try a french fry bait, or a senko and fish it slower than normal. P N J

[betursweetbass]

Originally Posted by omahabasser

Thanks. That corner of my pond had what little ice was remaining pushed into it. I will try again this week. As of this morning every inch if it was gone.

I will remember to fish S-L-O-W-!-!-!

And when you think you are fishing slow enough, slow it down even more.... Slow is the way to go, in cold water, and don't forget to use some sort of attractant like smelly jelly or other brand.

Good Luck

[ken kinser]

i fish slow and use a straight tail worm, drop shot works well now for me