A fishing forecast provides highly useful information to anglers to help catch more fish. Catching fish isn’t always an easy task, especially considering all of the variables that impact the quality of the bite. As an avid angler, I gather as much information as I can before fishing, and while I’m fishing so I can be as productive as possible. If you’re looking to catch more fish, check out a fishing forecast. Here are 7 pieces of highly valuable information you can learn from the forecast.
Water Temperature
Undoubtedly, water temperatures highly impact your chances of catching or not catching fish. For this reason, the fishing forecast provides accurate water temperatures.
Remember, fish, especially those in coastal waters, migrate to follow specific water temperature ranges.
So, at times, the fish you’re planning to target will not be present. I closely monitor water temperatures when fishing. Based on the season, I adjust my strategy to know that I can continue to catch fish year round.
Air Temperature
The air temperature does not always directly relate to catching or not catching fish. Remember, you can have a warm day during what is typically a cold winter. However, this doesn’t mean the water temperature changes along with the air temperature.
Knowing the air temperature better helps you as the angler prepares for a day of fishing. Air temperatures allow you to plan your clothing so that you can remain comfortable.
However, cold fronts do affect fishing. Often, fish will stop feeding when a cold front approaches. For this reason, you’re going to not only have to work harder to find fish but also to get them to bite.
When the fishing forecast calls for a sudden drop in temperatures, be prepared to make adjustments to stay on the fish.
Moon Cycle
The moon cycle has a significant impact on coastal waters. However, that is not to say it won’t impact the bite when freshwater fishing.
Remember, the range of tides in coastal waters is directly correlated with the moon phase. With that said, a full moon means a higher high tide and a lower low tide. The increased water flow as the tides shift from low to high or high to low means fish become more active.
One drawback to fishing full moons is presenting artificial or live bait. The increased flow rate causes your bait to drift down current more quickly compared to other moon phases.
In addition to fishing on a full moon, you’re also likely to catch more fish on a new moon. Utilize the fishing forecast to determine the best moon phases for fishing.
Barometric Pressure
Undoubtedly, the best fishing occurs when the barometric pressure is in the medium range. Atmospheric pressures that are too high or too low negatively impact the aggressiveness of fish.
You’ll want to make sure to get out on the water when the atmospheric pressure ranges between 29.60 and 30.30. However, the most ideal conditions are when the barometer is falling rapidly from this range.
Whenever you see these pressure ranges in the forecast, you will want to cast from the shore or head out on the boat.
Wind Speeds And Direction
One of the most important things to know when heading out fishing is the wind speed and direction. Not only will it better help you find fish, but it is also a major safety consideration.
Importantly, you don’t want to head out fishing if the wind driven seas are dangerous. It’s not worth risking your life.
Secondly, wind directly impacts fishing. Remember, the bait is pushed around when the winds are stiff. For this reason, if you’re fishing along the shore, focus your attention on the windward side versus the leeward side.
The gamefish will move in the direction of the baitfish. Therefore, you’re more likely to catch more fish on the windy side.
Amount And Timing Of Precipitation
Precipitation can range from heavy downpours to a light drizzle. For this reason, it is essential to know the hourly forecast in regards to rain before leaving the dock and while you’re out on the water.
Remember, the vast majority of boaters and anglers stay home or head back to the dock in the event of rain.
However, this means you are more likely to have the water to yourself. Less fishing pressure and reduced disturbance increase your chances of catching fish. For this reason, I suggest going fishing in the rain.
Furthermore, you can pick and choose your windows for light rain compared to heavy rain. Getting out fishing for a couple of hours is better than nothing.
Overcast Weather Predictions
Without question, fishing is impacted by overcast conditions. As an avid angler, I prefer to fish on bright sunny days both inshore and offshore.
Importantly, when the sun is high and not hidden by the clouds, it provides better visibility into the water.
Increased visibility allows anglers to better spot fish from the boat. Fish that are cruising the surface or just beneath the surface when seen can be sight-casted, to.
However, when the sun is shining, I recommend wearing a high-quality pair of polarized sunglasses. The sunglasses will eliminate the glare to better improve the ability to spot fish in the water.
Use The Fishing Forecast To Your Advantage
Although you may not focus heavily on all 7 pieces of information, having a broad range of knowledge of atmospheric conditions will better help you catch more fish. Remember, you don’t want to just go fishing but instead go catching.
