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Mastering Winter and Early Spring Kokanee Fishing

Mastering Winter and Early Spring Kokanee Fishing

By Bob Loomis

As the icy grip of winter slowly gives way to the first hints of spring, many anglers are itching to get back on the water. For those of us who chase the elusive kokanee, this transition period can be both challenging and rewarding. Over the years, I’ve found that having the right lures and techniques can make the difference between a frustrating day on the water and a cooler full of fish. 

The Winter Kokanee Challenge

Before we get into the lures and techniques, it’s important to understand what we’re up against during these colder months. Kokanee, like most fish, become more lethargic in cold water. Their metabolism slows down, and they’re less likely to chase after fast-moving lures. They also tend to school up in deeper water, often suspending at specific depths where they find their preferred water temperature and food sources. This behavior means we need to adjust our approach. Slow presentations, smaller lures, and the ability to fish effectively at various depths become crucial. That’s where the following lures really shine.

Top Lures for Cold Water Kokanee

Keeping these factors in mind, let's  consider some of the lures I have experienced to be the most effective for winter and early spring kokanee fishing:

1. Smile Blade Kokanee Hoochie: This lure has won me more than a few great fishing days. The highly visible Smile Blade UV Glo Burst is a game-changer in low light conditions, which we often encounter in early spring. I’ve found the tandem hook setup perfect for tipping with corn, adding that extra bit of attraction.

2. Double Whammy Kokanee Pro: When the bite is tough, this is often my go-to lure. The two razor-sharp hooks increase my hook-up ratio, which is crucial when dealing with the soft-mouthed kokanee. It’s particularly effective when trolled slowly in colder water.

3. Cha Cha 1.5 Kokanee: Designed specifically for kokanee’s small mouth, this lure has a two-hook, no-gap squidder setup that I’ve found incredibly effective. It works well in colder water and has helped me land some of my biggest winter kokanee.

4. Koke-A-Nut Glo: When the kokanee are holding deep, this is my secret weapon. The glow-in-the-dark prismatic flash tail and fluorescent rubber body make it visible even in the darkest depths. I’ve had success with this lure at depths of 100 feet or more, especially when paired with a Double D Dodger.

5. Hum Dinger: This lure is a  favorite among trout, kokanee anglers. This spoon, available in two sizes, emits a constant "Hum" that attracts fish and creates strikes.

Techniques for Cold Water Success

Now that we’ve covered the lures, let’s talk about how to use them effectively in cold water conditions:

Slow and Steady Wins the Race: The most crucial aspect of winter and early spring kokanee fishing is slowing down your presentation. I typically troll between 0.8 and 1.2 mph this time of year. This slower speed matches the reduced metabolism of the kokanee and gives them more time to react to your lure.

Focus on the Upper Water Column: While kokanee can be found deeper in the winter, I’ve had the most success focusing on the upper 25 feet of the water column in early spring. As the water begins to warm, kokanee will start moving up to feed on plankton blooms.

Color Selection: Water clarity can vary greatly in the early season. On cloudy days or in murky water, I lean towards darker colors like blues and purples. In clearer conditions, brighter colors like pink and hot orange seem to work better. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works on any given day.

Scent Matters: In cold water, adding scent to your lures can make a big difference. My top choices are Mack's SBF "Kokanee Magic" with high UV Flash, another kokanee-specific, or corn scents. A little dab on your lure can go a long way in enticing those finicky winter biters.

Use Your Electronics: A good fish finder is invaluable for locating schools of kokanee. Once you find them, pay attention to the depth they’re holding at and adjust your presentation accordingly.

Dodger Selection: The right dodger can make or break your success. For slow trolling, I’ve found the Double D Dodger to be incredibly effective. Its unique action simulates S curves in the water, which seems to trigger strikes from even the most lethargic kokanee.

The Power of UV and Glow

One of the things that sets Mack’s Lures apart, in my experience, is their effective use of UV and glow-in-the-dark technologies. The Smile Blade Kokanee Hoochie, for example, features a highly visible UV Glo Burst that’s particularly effective in the low light conditions we often encounter in early spring.

The Koke-A-Nut Glo takes this a step further with its glow-in-the-dark prismatic flash tail and fluorescent rubber body. This combination has proven deadly for me when fishing in deep water or on overcast days. The fluorescent colors maintain their brightness even as depth increases, unlike standard colors that tend to fade.

It’s worth noting that while these lures are often marketed as “UV,” they’re actually fluorescent. Fluorescent materials have the unique property of absorbing available light and re-emitting it at a longer wavelength. This makes the lure appear to “glow” underwater, attracting fish’s attention from a greater distance.

Rigging for Success

How you rig your lures can be just as important as the lures themselves. Here are a few rigging tips I’ve learned over the years:

  • Leader Length: In clear, cold water, kokanee can be leader shy. I typically use a longer leader, often 18-24” inches, between my dodger and lure.

  • Line Choice: Fluorocarbon leaders are my go-to for kokanee fishing. They’re nearly invisible in the water and have less stretch than monofilament, allowing for better hook sets.

  • Hook Sharpness: Always check your hook sharpness, especially when using single hook lures like the Wedding Ring. Kokanee have soft mouths, and a sharp hook can make the difference between landing a fish and losing it.

  • Bait Addition: While Mack’s Lures are effective on their own, I often tip the hooks with a piece of white shoepeg corn or a maggot for scent and attraction. 

Adapting to Changing Conditions

As we transition from winter to early spring, conditions can change rapidly. Water temperatures may fluctuate, and kokanee behavior can shift from day to day. It’s crucial to stay adaptable and be willing to change your tactics.

Some days, you might find success trolling slowly with a Hum Dinger near the surface. Other days, the fish might be holding deeper, requiring a switch to the Koke-A-Nut Glo. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lures, colors, and depths until you dial in what the fish want on any given day.

The Importance of Patience

Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned in my years of winter and early spring kokanee fishing is the value of patience. These can be challenging times to fish, with slow bites and finicky fish. But with the right lures, proper techniques, and a bit of persistence, the rewards can be tremendous.

There’s something special about battling the elements and netting a few cold-water kokanee. It’s moments like these that keep us coming back, year after year, to chase these fun fish through the cold months and into the promise of spring.

So grab your gear, bundle up, and hit the water. With these tips and tools, you’re well-equipped for early spring success.

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