If you’re missing fishing because it’s winter, don’t let the season stop you! By varying your method of fishing and the location in which you fish, you can cast a line all year round.
Itching to go fishing but afraid your fingers will freeze? That’s a reasonable thing to worry about. In fact, fishing during the winter can be somewhat difficult and, in some cases, dangerous. However, with the proper preparation you can be on your way to catching your limit.
You’ll want to have the following items before going fishing:
- Fishing license
- Fishing pole (fly rod, spinning rod, ice rod)
- Bait (depends on type of fish, location, and season)
Casting a Line During Winter
When fishing in the winter, doing so after a cold spell, when the weather starts to heat up for about a week, offers the most opportunity because fish are more active. Waiting until the still bodies of water freeze over will completely change the game.
When lakes and ponds have a thick layer of ice (5 inches or more), it’s safe to walk out onto them. Keep in mind that the body of water will freeze from the edges inward, so the further out you go, the thinner the ice may be. Check with your auger (like a giant drill bit for digging holes in ice) or chainsaw as you venture across the lake, to make sure the ice is safe. If you have not gone ice fishing before and never walked out onto a frozen lake, do not go without an experienced angler (fisher).
These are some of the items you’ll need to catch fish from the ice:
- Cold weather gear.
- A bucket (for carrying gear and flipping over to become your seat).
- An auger or chainsaw to cut a hole in the ice.
- A large scoop to remove the ice cuttings from your hole.
This video does a great job of explaining how to get started on your ice fishing journey!
Spring Fishing
As spring approaches with more sun, angling techniques change once again. For the best spring fishing tips and tricks, check out this article.
With the warmer weather comes the melting of snow and the rising of water levels. This also means that streams and rivers will be flowing extremely fast and are much more dangerous than they are in the summer. It also means that fish will be looking for less turbulent patches of water.You’ll have your best luck in the mellow spots of the river. If you want to have even better chances of filling your freezer with fish, avoid river fishing until summer and fall. Lakes and ponds are going to yield better results in the spring.
Reeling With that Summer Feeling
Whether you’re bait or fly fishing, in the summertime you can have good luck in any body of water. You’ll find the sport to be pretty consistent wherever you go (as long as you know what you’re doing). We recommend using bait if you’re an inexperienced angler. It’s the easiest and requires the least equipment.
In the hottest months, the fish will be less active during midday, unlike the winter months, and you’ll struggle to find a good spot. You’re better off catching them in the morning or at night. You might also consider these tips for hot weather fishing:- Cast your line into a current. Fish enjoy oxygen-rich water that flows through their gills.
- Fish in the shade. Fish want to be cool, just like you, so fish with some cover overhead.
- Use earthworms or nightcrawlers as bait. Fish can’t resist a squirmy worm.
- Do your fishing in the deep water with a boat. Fish will feed at the lower points where the water is colder.
For more information on summer fishing, read this article.
Angling in Autumn
Leaves are falling and temperatures are dropping. This change in temperature affects a fish’s metabolism and causes it to slow down and preserve its energy. This may make it more difficult to catch fish, but there are some ways to increase your chances:
- Find out your local fishing conditions at different locations. Your local fish and wildlife website should contain this information.
- Do your fishing in the afternoon when the waters are warmer, especially after a stretch of cold weather.
- Change up your lure/bait. You can check your local fish and wildlife website to see which lures will yield the best results depending on what you’re angling for.
For more tips on fall fishing, this article has tons of information.
As the weather gets colder, you might want to take a break and wait for winter to come back around.
Happy Fishing!
When you decide to go fishing, remember to follow all water safety rules. Wear a life jacket when you’re out on a boat. Fish from a place where you have stable footing, especially in cold conditions. (You really don’t want to fall into icy waters.) Be aware of your surroundings; you’re not the only animal that likes water and fish. If you can carry some form of protection from predators, like bear spray, do so. Now get out there and catch your limit!
Catching fish isn’t always a breeze, especially if you’re inexperienced. To leave your fishing trip in a good mood, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Read this blog on how to manage your expectations.
