As of December 29, 2024, fishing at Lake Powell in Utah is experiencing the typical challenges and opportunities of the winter season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Water Conditions
The current water temperature at Lake Powell is around 51°F, which slows down the metabolism of most fish species, leading to reduced feeding activity. However, cold-water species like trout may become more active in these conditions. The weather is clear and cool, with a high-pressure system dominating the area, which suggests stable fish behavior but also makes fish more cautious.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset is expected at about 5:00 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trips, especially since fish tend to be more active during these transitional periods.
### Fish Activity
Predatory fish such as striped bass and walleye remain active but may require slower presentations to trigger strikes. Crappie, particularly in the San Juan area, continue to be active even in the winter months. They can be found around submerged trees in about 20-30 feet of water[2].
### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
Recently, anglers have caught several 3- to 4-pound walleye near Blue Notch and Red Canyon. Crappie, ranging from 12-15 inches, have been caught in the San Juan area using small jigs and sonar to locate them around submerged trees[2].
### Best Lures and Bait
For this time of year, drop shotting and vertical jigging are highly effective methods. Use medium to medium-heavy rods for better sensitivity in cold water, and ensure your line is abrasion-resistant for the rocky areas and submerged structures. For crappie, 2.5-inch gulp minnows and white feather jigs have been successful. For other species, consider using small red worms, crickets, or crayfish, especially with micro jigs that imitate natural food[1][3].
### Hot Spots
- **San Juan Area**: This is a good spot for crappie, with multiple age classes and some nice-sized ones. Look for submerged trees in about 20-30 feet of water.
- **Blue Notch and Red Canyon**: These areas have yielded several 3- to 4-pound walleye recently.
- **Deeper Channels**: As winter sets in, fish tend to move to deeper, stable temperature zones. Focus on vertical structure fishing in these areas[1].
Dress warmly and be cautious of sudden weather changes. Utilize electronics to locate fish and structure efficiently, and enjoy your time on Lake Powell.
