Jason Mitchell shares a few pointers for finding and catching fish (walleye, panfish, etc.) in basin fishing situations during the winter.

Basin Fishing Strategies (ft. Jason Mitchell)

In this article, we will be discussing basin fishing strategies with renowned angler Jason Mitchell. Basin fishing is a popular technique used to target a variety of fish species such as walleyes, perch, bluegills, and crappies. These fish often congregate in deepwater areas with soft, muddy bottoms. Jason will share his insights on how to effectively locate and catch fish in these vast open-water environments.

The Importance of Patience

According to Jason, one key aspect of basin fishing is patience. Fish in these areas tend to swim in circles, so if you have the patience to sit in a spot long enough, the fish will eventually find you. However, this approach may not always be feasible due to time constraints. In such cases, it becomes necessary to actively search for the fish.

Drilling Holes Strategically

When targeting bottom-dwelling fish like perch and walleye, Jason suggests drilling a fewer number of holes and spending more time in each hole. Instead of quickly moving from hole to hole, he recommends spending around 10 minutes in a hole to gauge any signs of fish activity. This approach allows for more efficient fishing and reduces the time spent drilling unnecessary holes.

Making Big Moves

In basin fishing, it’s not uncommon to have to make big moves to find active fish. Jason explains that instead of drilling more holes, it’s often more effective to make larger moves across the water. This could mean moving 30 yards, 15 yards, or even a mile at a time. By covering more ground, you increase your chances of locating fish and finding those active areas.

Drilling Out the Area

Once you start marking fish or seeing signs of activity, that’s when it’s time to drill out the area. Jason advises focusing on the spots where you’re finding fish and making smaller moves within that zone. By drilling more holes in the active area, you increase your chances of hooking into fish.

Spacing Your Holes

To effectively break down a large body of water, Jason recommends spacing your holes strategically. Instead of drilling holes close together, spread them out by distance. This allows you to cover more ground and increases your chances of finding those active areas where fish are congregating.

Conclusion

Basin fishing can be a rewarding technique for targeting a variety of fish species. By employing strategic drilling techniques, being patient, and making big moves when necessary, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to focus on the areas where you’re marking fish and drill out those spots to maximize your catch. Happy fishing!