How does barometric pressure affect fishing?
April 4th 2010 00:44
Barometric Pressure exerts pressure on the waters we fish and if you think humans are immune, think again! On a muggy day, just before it rains, how often do you gingerly close you eyes and say, "My head is killing me?"
Studies have shown that it may have a similar effect on fish.
As you probably figured out from watch the weather report, barometric pressure is measured with the use of a barometer. A barometer measures the weight of the atmosphere (pressure) and compares it to the weight of a column of mercury.
It is important to note that barometric pressure has more influence on fish in shallow waters than those in deeper waters. Most likely, this is because the pressure of water is greater at deeper depths and makes the air pressure above it of little significance.
If the pressure is:
High – resulting in clear skies – Fish are going to 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 weather – Fish usually become more active. Fish with bright lures near cover. You may also want to try something at deeper depths.
Stable and constant –This is when you're going to experience a "nice" day This is the time to go with your "tried and true" tactics but, don't forget this can be an excellent time to experiment with something new.
Falling –This is going to be when fish are most active. – Speed up lures. Surface and shallow running lures are the ticket for days like this.
Low –Stormy – Fish will are usually less active as this period remains. Until the weather breaks, try fishing at deeper depths and remember to watch out for lightning.
It is important to note that after a long feeding period, the action will slow regardless of the conditions that come with it or immediately after. Conversely, a long period of poor fishing may be followed by a really good one.
Despite all this info, it's important to remember barometric pressure is one of many factors that effect fish. Water temperature, tides, light, water clarity and levels, pH level, wind, fishing pressure, and even boat traffic can and will affect fishing.
Studies have shown that it may have a similar effect on fish.
As you probably figured out from watch the weather report, barometric pressure is measured with the use of a barometer. A barometer measures the weight of the atmosphere (pressure) and compares it to the weight of a column of mercury.
It is important to note that barometric pressure has more influence on fish in shallow waters than those in deeper waters. Most likely, this is because the pressure of water is greater at deeper depths and makes the air pressure above it of little significance.
If the pressure is:
High – resulting in clear skies – Fish are going to 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 weather – Fish usually become more active. Fish with bright lures near cover. You may also want to try something at deeper depths.
Stable and constant –This is when you're going to experience a "nice" day This is the time to go with your "tried and true" tactics but, don't forget this can be an excellent time to experiment with something new.
Falling –This is going to be when fish are most active. – Speed up lures. Surface and shallow running lures are the ticket for days like this.
Low –Stormy – Fish will are usually less active as this period remains. Until the weather breaks, try fishing at deeper depths and remember to watch out for lightning.
It is important to note that after a long feeding period, the action will slow regardless of the conditions that come with it or immediately after. Conversely, a long period of poor fishing may be followed by a really good one.
Despite all this info, it's important to remember barometric pressure is one of many factors that effect fish. Water temperature, tides, light, water clarity and levels, pH level, wind, fishing pressure, and even boat traffic can and will affect fishing.
Remember to take the hooks outta yer pocket before ya sit down!
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Comment by Teeg Stouffer
However, I've also heard it suggested that it's the light conditions associated with these conditions that have the biggest effect on fish behavior, which might also hold water.
Either way, good article.