Lakers up here do not open until Jan 1 close on March 15 never fished different for Lakers start to finish.. I start in deep water the look more shallow. I read that the Bottom of Lakes get oxygen depleted as the winter wears on but Most often you fish Lakers off the bottom anyway. I put down Live or dead bait and fish lures nearby , Wiliams , White Tube , Big Jigging Rap , . I get more on the Bait then hitting the Lure.. Some Guys do not bother with bait and Jig two lines .