Important Springtime Fishing Tips to Consider
Timing is Everything
In the summer, fishing in the early morning or evening generally produces the best results. This is because freshwater fish are sensitive to heat. On one hand, they are more active in warmer water. On the other hand, most species dislike midday sunlight. Springtime is different. Water temperatures are still cold at night and cool in the morning. Since the energy from the sun isn’t at its peak until the middle of the day, fish tend to remain sedentary and sluggish until the late morning or early afternoon.
You want to get fish when they are the most active and hungry, and this means adjusting your schedule to match theirs. Plan on heading out in the late morning instead of waking up at the crack of dawn.
Follow the Wind
Wind will carry warmer water as well as sources of food to the downwind side of a lake. If the wind is blowing from the east, fish along the western portion of the lake. If the wind is blowing from the north, head south. Chances are that the fish you want to catch will be found in greater numbers in shallow waters along these edges. Shallow water is warmer, the shoreline provides cover and they know that all they need to do is lie in wait for their prey to be carried to them. Since they don’t like to expend unnecessary energy in cool water, this technique works well for them and it can also work well for you.
Be Patient
Our tendency is to quickly yank the pole and set the hook as soon as a fish bites. However, fish are less responsive in cooler waters. While they will be hungry, there is a chance that you will encounter fish that are reacting to bait in slow motion. Consequently, it will take more time for the fish to swallow the bait, and it is important to be patient in order to reel in your catch. Setting the hook too soon can end up yanking the bait away from the fish before they swallow it and leave you empty-handed.
Focus on Live Bait
Some people would disagree, but you may have a better chance at catching fish in the early spring by using live bait instead of lures. Fish will be more likely to chase a wiggling worm than a flashing piece of metal. They are less active, less jumpy and less interested in pursuing everything that crosses their path. Live bait attracts fish because of their scent as well as movement, and it’s easier to entice a fish by providing a fresh and live meal when they are less active.
Color Contrasts
Another important factor to consider is that frequent rains and windy conditions during the spring cloud waters. Use lures or jigs that have colors that contrast murky waters in conjunction with live bait. This will make it easier to motivate lazy fish to detect and swim toward the bait.
As a general rule, waters in the northern part of the country tend to take longer to heat up, whereas southern lakes and rivers will see more activity earlier in the season. Adjust your schedule and technique to accommodate these realities, and chances are that you will have more success and less wasted time as you try to catch your next meal.
