Rising and falling barometric pressure can play a large part in whether it will be a good or bad fishing day.
It's often said the most lousy weather means the best fishing. There's some truth to that. While the reasons aren't totally understood, as any angler and they'll tell you the right weather conditions can greatly increase you chances of catching more fish, especially in freshwater.
Barometric pressure is the measure of the weight of the atmosphere above us. This weight changes depending on the weather pattern. Fish, insects and even humans can feel this change. In fact, rising/falling pressure can bring about headaches, achy joints and even depression.
It is believed by many, that it may have a similar and even more dramatic effect on fish, effecting their feeding habits, especially in shallow water.
General rules for using barometric pressure while fishing.
|
Pressure |
Typical Weather |
Fishing Trends |
Suggested Tactics |
|
High |
Clear skies |
Fish slow down, find cover or go to deeper waters. |
Slow down lures and use baits more attractive to fish. Fish in cover and in deeper waters. |
|
Rising |
Clearing or improving |
Fish tend to become slightly more active |
Fish with brighter lures and near cover. Also fish at intermediate and deeper depths. |
|
Normal and stable |
Fair |
Normal fishing |
Experiment with your favorite baits and lures. |
|
Falling |
Degrading |
Most active fishing |
Speed up lures. Surface and shallow running lures may work well. |
|
Slightly lower |
Usually cloudy |
Many fish will head away from cover and seek shallower waters. Some fish will become more aggressive. |
Use shallow running lures at a moderate speed. |
|
Low |
Rainy and stormy |
Fish will tend to become less active the longer this period remains. |
As the action subsides, try fishing at deeper depths. |
It is important to note, that the barometric pressure is just one of many factors that effect fish feeding habits. Other effects include water temperature, light, tidal forces, water clarity, the pH level, water levels, wind/surface disturbance, boat traffic among others.
Do you have some great fishing tips? Feel free to add a comment/suggestion below.
