Cast Away: How to Choose the Perfect Fishing Times

Does the perfect cast really exist? The 49.8 billion dollar recreational fishing market suggests that many anglers are trying to find out. However, being able to catch a fish is about more than how you cast your line.

Knowing what type of lure to use, what bait is best, what your local fishing laws are, and how to wait patiently are all part of the fishing scene. But many fishermen will tell you that when you fish is as important as how you fish.

Learning the best fishing times for where you intend to fish can make or break your fishing day. Read on for the best tips in one guide.

Temperature Affects Fish

Because fish are cold-blooded, extreme temperatures can keep fish deeper and away from the shallows. Too many hot days in a row or hot midafternoon temps warm up the water and make the fish sluggish so they don’t come as close to the surface due to lower oxygen content.

In cold water, fish digest their meals slower, which means they aren’t looking for a meal as often. Avoiding extreme temperatures and using a water temperature gauge can help you find the best spot temperature-wise for fish to be biting.

Weather Is a Factor

While it may be unpleasant to fish in, light rain is considered the best time to fish in many areas. It pushes more insects into the water and brings the fish closer to the surface.

Heavy winds or stormy weather are times to avoid because it causes instability in the water surface and the available food.

Overcast skies are better than bright days. During those lighter times, fish are more visible and they like to stay hidden as self-preservation to keep from becoming prey. Your lure may also be more hidden during the overcast days, making the fish less cautious to bite.

To get a better sense of the weather in the area where you want to fish, try using a fishing calendar or downloading a fishing forecast app. These can help you plan for daily fishing and out into future trips, as they pull data from many different sources.

Fish Species Have Different Fishing Times

Figuring out what species of fish you want to catch will help determine the best fishing time. For example, if you are looking to catch some Spring Chinook, knowing that their peak season is April will result in better fishing.

Bass like to take advantage of the cooler temperatures at night during the summer and feed during these times. While morning or evening could get you a catch, the best time for catching these fish is after the sun has gone down.

For inshore fishing of Halibut, the best time to fish is for the 2 hours before and after low and high tides, referred to as slack tide. Because they are bottom-feeder fish, keeping your bait at the bottom, as the slack tide allows, will create a more productive fishing experience.

Got to Catch Them All

No matter what kind of fish you are angling for, being prepared with fishing times is your best bet to success. Mark your calendars, pack your gear, and head out on your fishing adventure.

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