One of the most productive areas to fish in both freshwater and saltwater are spillways. The purpose of a spill is to control the release of water from a higher point to a lower point. Importantly, the spillway releases excess water from above to the water below. Without question, spillways are hotbeds for fishing. Here are 5 reasons why you need to take advantage of spillway fishing. 

High Oxygen Levels

One of the biggest reasons to fish a spillway is because of the high oxygen levels in the water. High oxygen levels increase fish activity compared to low oxygen levels, where fish become sluggish. 

Undoubtedly, a fish receiving an abundance of oxygen will feed more aggressively compared to a sluggish fish. Furthermore, you’ll hook up to more energetic fish that will put up a stout battle in freshwater or saltwater. 

Concentrated Fish Population

The fish at spillways often become highly concentrated, particularly those that move upstream. Some of the most notable upstream moving fish include trout and salmon. 

Rather than moving forward, they are held in position at spillways. For this reason, the fish stack up, making them easy to cast from the shoreline or a boat. 

It is not uncommon under the right conditions to catch dozens of fish. I have done so in creek spillways during the fall. 

Source Of Food

Undoubtedly, spillways provide an abundance of food for fish. The type of food includes baitfish, invertebrates, insects, and more. 

Not only does the water flowing over the spillway deliver food, but baitfish and predators swim to the base of the spillway. This creates a feeding frenzy for fish of all sizes. 

Often, you will see baitfish breaking at the surface. Additionally, when gamefish are actively feeding, they will cause a stir at the surface when eating at the top of the water. It is important to look for activity and cast in that vicinity. 

Variety Of Fish Species

A spillway will hold a wide variety of fish species. No matter if you’re a saltwater angler or freshwater angler, you’ll find a suitable gamefish. Here is a breakdown of the most common types of fish concentrated around spillways.

Saltwater

One of my favorite types of spillway fishing is saltwater spillway fishing. I have had great success casting spillways in saltwater.

Some of the most commonly caught fish in saltwater spillways include sea trout, redfish, flounder, tarpon, snook, jacks, and more. 

When targeting saltwater fish at spillways, I recommend live bait, lures, and soft plastics. Remember to work all water levels to determine where the fish are biting. If you’re with friends, mix up the presentations. 

Freshwater

Never assume that a freshwater spillway isn’t an excellent place to find fish. Freshwater fish flock to spillways, and they include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, panfish, catfish, walleye, perch, and more. 

It is important to understand that the fish species are highly dependent on the location. You’ll find mostly largemouth bass, panfish, and catfish in the south and walleye, smallmouth bass, and perch in the north. 

Access For Casting

For the most part, spillways are constructed out of concrete. With that said the sides of the spillway often have level surfaces to stand and cast a line. 

Additionally, trees are set back away from the spillway, allowing you to swing your rod completely for more accurate casting. 

I enjoy fishing from spillways because I have solid footing and a place to set my gear. However, I have also cast on spillways by boat. The drawback of a boat is holding the vessel in position. Often, the current is strong, making it challenging to get into the right area. 

How To Find Fishing Spillways

Unfortunately, finding spillways can become a challenge. With that said, you need to use your resources. 

One of the best methods to locate spillways is by using Google Maps. Pull up Google Maps in the area you plan to fish. Next, switch maps to a satellite view. Finally, scroll through the map until you locate spillways while zooming in on waterways, lakes, and coastal waters. 

Secondly, while you’re on the roads driving around, keep an eye out for spillways. Fortunately, spillways are often located near road bridges. Remember to scope out the parking situation and how accessible the waterway is from the spillway. 

Spillway Fishing Is Well Worth Your Time

The next time you get a chance to go out fishing, try a local spillway. Spillway fishing can provide non stop action when the conditions are right. However, don’t assume the spot isn’t productive if you have one bad day. Make sure to visit the spillway again. Lastly, bring an abundance of artificial lures and natural baits. Keep note of what’s working on each visit