In the winter when most lakes are frozen over, there still are places to fish for bass... they are called rivers. If the river you fish is stained or has dingy water, I have a bait for you. The flat tail grub!
The times I like to use these is when he water is 40 degrees or less. Then I tie on a 3″ grub with a round 1/4 ounce head and a 3/0 hook. I also use 6 pound test, which lets you feel more bites and also is better in windy conditions.
Make sure you rig the grub so the flat tail is horizonal. Fish the lure so it bumps into any kind of object and let it sit. I mean let it sit. The colder the water, the longer you let it sit. Then if you don't get a hit, just raise your tip and let it fall again and sit some more.
When you get a hit, it usually isn't like a tap-tap, it feels like you hooked a leaf and dragging it through the water. Feels kind of mushy. When you feel the "mush” or softness, set the hook but not like on a regula
When you get tired of sitting at home and want to do some bass fishing in the winter, go to the nearest river and try this technique.
Charles E. White has fished 50 years for bass from California to Florida. In his lifetime, it is estimated that he has caught over 6,000 bass. His biggest bass is a 12 pound 14 ounce that hangs on his wall in his office. His tips and techniques have helped many people who have never fished for bass before become successful anglers. He also has fished with the Pros in Florida. His website is at: http://www.bassfishingweekly.com