Shore-fishing facilities are excellent, too, at the Hannibal Locks and Dam. The lock is on the Ohio side, with a hydro plant on the West Virginia bank. Fishing Creek, located a couple of miles below the dam, is a good spot for walleyes and saugers. A boat ramp can be found a short distance up from Fishing Creek’s mouth.

The jig-and-minnow is standard winter walleye fare for both the shore- and boat-fisherman. Boat anglers should float with the speed of the current, fishing the jig vertically (straight under the boat). Consider anchoring just off shallow feeding spots, such as gravel bars and major creek mouths. This is especially effective just before the twilight period, as you’ll likely intercept fish moving shallow to feed. Drop down a size on the jig, and make short pitch casts. Shore-anglers can score by casting a jig-and-minnow, or by soaking a shiner or chub on a live-bait rig. Tailwaters areas, in particular, can be full of snags, so expect to lose some tackle.

The Ohio River serves as the division between West Virginia and Ohio, from above Weirton to downriver of Huntington. A reciprocal agreement is in place between the resource management agencies of both states, one that allows licensed resident anglers from West Virginia to fish from the Ohio shore of the river. Licensed Ohio anglers from that state are permitted the same privilege on the West Virginia bank.

Winter fishing on the Ohio River can warm up an otherwise cold day. However, just because the action can be hot, anglers need to remember that the water is brutally cold. A plunge in the river at this time could be a lethal one.

Wise boat anglers will wear their personal flotation devices (PFDs) at this time. PFDs have become increasingly comfortable to wear, and provide extra welcome insulation during cold days. Boat floors can become slippery due to snow showers or spilled water from the minnow bucket, providing an added danger.

Shore-anglers, too, are at risk. Shoreline rocks can be icy. Shelf ice can extend a few feet from shore. Under no circumstance should you venture out on shelf ice. Tailrace areas, the most popular of shore-fishing spots, can be especially dangerous due to the current areas found there.

In addition to the navigational river charts previously listed, serious river anglers might consider buying the Southern Ohio edition of Sportsman’s Connection Fishing Map Guide. This guide contains maps of the Ohio River, including valuable fishing tips and access information.

Find more about West Virginia fishing and hunting at: WVgameandfish.com