How does the weather affect the bite?

If you take individual fishermen who don't understand how certain weather conditions affect their fishing, they often return from fishing empty-handed or with a small catch. Knowing what weather and where to catch large, substantial trophies will be an advantage in fishing.

While this is unlikely when taking trophy fishing trips on the Putorana Plateau, young anglers will be interested in learning about the nuances of fishing during changing weather conditions. However, if you ask a seasoned, experienced angler about the weather, you're unlikely to get a clear and precise answer.

But once you arrive at the pond, you'll discover the old folks' secrets and learn life hacks about weather conditions. This article offers insights into what you should pay attention to before going fishing, and what kind of weather will bring you a trophy catch.

What weather conditions do fish feel?

Any living creature on land, in the air, or underwater senses changes in the weather quite clearly. Some more than others, but, one way or another, they have premonitions and sensations. Hunters and fishermen know this from their own experience and from the number of trophies they've caught.

Fish, even though they live underwater, are just as sensitive to changes in weather conditions as humans. That's why some fish, for example, go on a feeding frenzy in cloudy weather, while others, on the contrary, stop biting. The same applies to other weather conditions (snowfall, wind, heat, etc.).

Air temperature

This is one of the main weather factors that affects fish bites. Fish prefer warm weather but cannot tolerate direct sunlight. Therefore, on clear days, many predators hide in holes or in the shade of trees, located near the shore of the reservoir. When the temperature drops gradually, literally by a few degrees, predatory fish such as pike, perch, and other fish become more active, while during warmer weather, more peaceful fish are more likely to bite.

Atmospheric pressure

Many fish prefer spring or fall, when it's not too hot but not yet, or no longer, too cold. A good bite can significantly offset changes in atmospheric pressure, especially during sudden frosts or the onset of hot weather.

Incidentally, the factor of atmospheric pressure drop or rise allows you to predict the upcoming catch of large trophies in advance. This is because fish's air bladders cannot immediately adapt to rapid changes in pressure. They sometimes remain in one place for several days. Just find such a hole, and the catch will be impressive.

Windy weather

When present, the bite is often excellent. It creates waves and ripples in the water, which act as cover for fishing tackle. Therefore, a slight breeze often leads to profitable catches. However, when the wind shifts, the fish stop biting.

Rain and other precipitation

• Many anglers believe that fish bite more often and better in the rain, although this is somewhat misguided. Fish start to bite more often when it's hot and then rainy clouds suddenly roll in.
• Cool weather, especially during rain, significantly increases aquatic life's appetite, as the water becomes oxygenated, making them hungry. However, if the heat is followed by hail, don't expect a bite.
• When the sky becomes overcast, the bite stops. This happens because the atmospheric pressure drops and the fish settle in one spot.