Tides and moon phases are critical factors that influence fishing success. Many experienced anglers believe that understanding the science behind these phenomena is essential for a successful fishing trip. In this article, we will explore why tides and moon phases are good for fishing and how they impact the behavior of fish.

Tides and Fishing

Tides are the periodic rise and fall of water levels in oceans, seas, and other large bodies of water. They are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on the Earth's oceans. As the tide changes, the water moves in and out, creating currents and changing the depth of the water. These changes in water movement and depth have a significant impact on fish behavior.

During high tide, fish tend to move closer to shore, searching for food that has been pushed in by the tide. The higher water levels also make it easier for larger fish to move into shallow areas, making them more accessible to anglers. On the other hand, during low tide, fish move away from the shore and into deeper waters. This is because the shallow areas are exposed to little to no water, and there is less food available for them to feed on. As a result, fishing during low tide is often less productive.

Additionally, when the tide changes, it creates a current. These currents carry baitfish and other prey, making them more accessible to larger predatory fish. This is why many anglers believe that fishing during the change of the tide is the most productive time to catch fish.

Moon Phases and Fishing

Moon phases also have a significant impact on fishing. The gravitational pull of the moon affects the tides, and it also influences the behavior of fish. The phases of the moon that are most important to anglers are the full moon and the new moon.

During the full moon, fish are more active at night, which means that they feed more actively during the day as well. This increased activity is due to the brighter light of the full moon, which allows fish to see their prey more easily. As a result, fishing during the full moon can be very productive.

Conversely, during the new moon, fish tend to be less active because there is less light at night. This reduced activity means that they feed less actively during the day as well. Fishing during the new moon can be more challenging, but it is still possible to catch fish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the impact of tides and moon phases on fish behavior is crucial for successful fishing. By fishing during high tide, the change of the tide, and the full moon, anglers can significantly increase their chances of catching fish. However, it's important to remember that these factors are not the only things that determine fishing success. Factors such as water temperature, weather conditions, and the type of fish you're targeting also play a role. So, while tides and moon phases are good indicators of when to go fishing, they should be used in conjunction with other factors to maximize your chances of success.
April 25, 2023 — Joshua Baker