January 9, 2026

By NOEoutdoors

 

West Point Lake settles into a true winter pattern in January. Water temperatures are generally in the upper 40s, occasionally creeping into the low 50s during extended warm spells. Fishing pressure is lighter this time of year, but the lake can fish tough if you rush it. Fish are positioned in predictable winter locations, and anglers who slow down and fish methodically are rewarded.

 

This lake is all about channel-related structure in the winter. Fish are not shallow and they are not roaming. They are holding close to depth and will only move short distances to feed.

 

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Bass Report (Spotted and Largemouth)

 

Bass on West Point are holding deep and relating closely to the Chattahoochee River channel and major creek channels. Long points, ledges, channel bends, humps, and steep banks near deep water are prime areas right now.

 

Spotted bass are more active and consistent than largemouth in January. Largemouth tend to stay tighter to cover and are slower to commit to a bite. Most bass are holding in the 20 to 40 foot range, with some fish suspending slightly off the bottom depending on conditions.

 

Slow presentations dominate this time of year. Jerkbaits worked with long pauses are effective over deep structure. Jigging spoons produce when bass are grouped near the bottom. Football jigs, finesse jigs, and shaky heads work well when crawled slowly along structure.

 

Wind blowing into points and ledges helps position baitfish and can significantly improve the bite. Calm days usually require slowing down even more and fishing more precisely.

 

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Crappie Report

 

Crappie fishing on West Point in January is consistent if you focus on deep water. Crappie are holding along the river channel, major creek channels, and deeper flats close to structure.

 

Most crappie are found in the 18 to 30 foot range, often suspended off the bottom. Electronics are critical for locating schools and staying on the right depth.

 

Slow trolling small jigs along channel edges is effective for covering water and locating fish. Once schools are found, vertical jigging allows you to stay in the strike zone longer. Crappie group tightly in winter, so staying on active schools is key.

 

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Striper and Hybrid Bass Report

 

Stripers and hybrids are active on West Point throughout the winter but are highly dependent on weather conditions. Fish are feeding on bait and roaming open water near the river channel and major creek arms.

 

Downlines and freelines are effective when fish are holding deeper. Planer boards can work when stripers move higher in the water column to feed. Larger bait offerings tend to produce better quality fish.

 

Feeding activity often happens in short windows. Cold fronts slow the bite and push fish deeper, while stable weather can improve feeding activity. Staying near bait is the key to finding fish.

 

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Three Key Fishing Tips for January

 

1. Fish Channel-Related Structure First

Winter fish on West Point stay close to the river and creek channels. Focus on points, ledges, and bends tied to deep water.

 

2. Slow Everything Down

Cold water fish will not chase far. Slower retrieves and longer pauses lead to more bites.

 

3. Use Wind and Electronics Together

Wind positions bait, and electronics help you stay on fish. Use both to your advantage.

 

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Final Take:

January fishing on West Point Lake is not fast, but it is predictable. Fish deep, stay patient, and focus on structure tied to channels. If you fish deliberately, West Point can produce very solid winter days.