Weather can have tremendous impacts on fishing. Most experienced anglers know first-hand that fish may feed aggressively at one moment and refuse even the most tempting meal the next.
Many of the factors that trigger fish to bite are related to weather. These can include wind, rain, snow, hail, fog, lightning, barometric pressure and other influences.
Barometric Pressure
Many top anglers claim that barometric pressure has a critical influence on fish behavior. Some species have a reputation for biting best during a falling barometer. Success with other species may be associated with different barometric states.
Wind
Wind can have tremendous impacts on fishing.
A popular adage is “fishing is least when wind is from the East.”
Wind can affect ponds and lakes by moving debris into one area. Anglers can use wind to their advantage by fishing near these mats of debris.
Strong winds can even generate inversions or rotating currents. These periods can trigger good fishing if fish are located.
Sudden gusts of winds can dislodge insects or other foods from trees and brush. When conditions shift from calm to breezy, look for swirls from feeding fish.
Rain
Fish are already wet and often continue feeding, regardless of precipitation.
After a rain, anglers sometimes target fish areas where small streams converge into ponds or pools. There areas can attract fish as food is swept out into deeper water.
Runoff from rain may also help clear buildups of debris and excess aquatic vegetation, opening up fishing areas for anglers.
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