When To Go Fishing

When you're planning your next fishing trip, the most important way to plan for success is finding the right time. Timing is everything when it comes to a great catch. You may be interested in the sport of the hobby, not really worried about a catch worthy of dinner but planning the right time can make the sport more enjoyable for you and your party. The most important way to plan is taking into consideration the season and the temperature of the water during the day.

Most people consider sitting on a lake on a lazy summer day ideal. Perhaps you're interested in ice-fishing in the wintertime. What's important to know about fish is that they are warm blooded creatures, similar to us. Although different regions have their traditions, when temperatures are too high or too cold, they tend to get sluggish, just as we would. The best seasons for fishing are going to be seasons that have mild warm weather, such as Spring or Autumn. At a warm temperature, fish will tend to feed more aggressively making the best times to fish are actually late Spring or early Fall, to be more exact.

When it comes to the right time of day, late morning has always been the best time to head out on to the water but it also depends on the temperature of the water The late morning is the time of day where the water has reached a comfortable temperature for fish to move and be ready to feed. As the day continues, the water will get progressively warmer. Warmer water has less oxygen than cooler water, so you will have to find shadier places to fish along the coastline of rivers, lakes, and streams. If you are in the open ocean, the temperature of the water along the surface will warm up and reduce oxygen levels but the water will still be cool at deeper levels. If you plan on fishing at the height of the day, you'll need to consider that you will be fishing at deeper levels. The early afternoon is also a good time to go out, as the water at this time is similar to that of the late morning, warm but comfortable.

Because fish are so sensitive to their environment, pay attention to the weather during the season to get a feel for a good time to fish as well. If there is a cold front right before you head out, you may not be as lucky as if just before it starts to get cold. During a warming trend, fish will start to feed more aggressively. Feeding will be on or near the warmer surface. If the weather for the day is rain, you're in luck! Rain helps mask your boat, and fish are more likely to feel hidden from you.

The success of your trip is all in the timing. Next time you head out on to the water, keep these tips in mind and you'll be able to have fun and maybe bring home some dinner!