Is it good to fish after rain? If you’ve ever packed your gear and hit the water after a storm, you’ve likely asked yourself that. Do fish bite better or worse after rainfall disrupts their underwater world? Let’s uncover what really happens beneath the surface once the raindrops fall.
Fishing after rain can be very rewarding. Rain cools surface temperatures, washes nutrients into the water, and triggers fish to become more active. Anglers like Kevin VanDam, 4-time Bassmaster Classic champion, often recommend post-rain fishing for better catches.
But timing, water clarity, and location also matter. Some fish thrive in muddy runoff, while others stay deeper. So, if you’re eager to land your next big catch, let’s dive into pros and cons of fishing in cold rain, when, where, and why after rain fishing can make all the difference!
Is It Good to Fish After Rain?
Fishing after rain storm is generally considered to be a productive time for many anglers, but it’s not without its challenges. There are a number of factors to consider, including water levels, clarity, and the overall temperature of the water. Fish react to these changes in various ways, sometimes making them more active and feeding more aggressively.
Rain has the potential to change the conditions in the water, often leading to improved fishing prospects. For instance, when a light rain falls, it cools down the water temperature slightly, which can get fish more active, especially during the warmer months.
The rain also increases the flow of water, often bringing food such as insects or small fish into the area, making fish more likely to strike. Additionally, the murky water caused by rain can provide fish with an added sense of cover, making them feel safer while they hunt for food.
However, it’s not always smooth sailing. Too much rain or a sudden storm can lead to very high, fast-moving water, which can make fishing incredibly difficult. The excess water can also make it harder to find fish since they can be scattered, seeking shelter in deeper or calmer areas.
How Rainy Weather Can Affect the Bite?
Rainy weather doesn’t just affect the fish habitat, but it can also influence the way fish behave, making them more or less likely to bite. Here’s how:
- Water Temperature Changes: Fish are cold-blooded, meaning their body temperature is closely tied to the surrounding water. When it rains, the air cools down, which in turn cools the water. This temperature change can increase fish activity, causing them to be more hungry and willing to bite.
- Increased Water Flow: Rain increases water flow in rivers, streams, and lakes, often resulting in fish being more spread out. However, it also brings nutrients like small prey and algae to the water, which can draw fish in, especially to shallow areas.
- Muddy Water: A light rain can cause a mild muddiness in the water, which is favorable for many species of fish that rely on their sense of smell to detect prey. The murkier water gives fish a sense of security, as they are less likely to be detected by predators.
- Cloud Cover: The overcast conditions following cold rain can make fish feel more secure, as the lower light levels reduce the chance of predators spotting them. Fish are also more likely to feed actively under these conditions, as they feel less exposed.
Is Saltwater Fishing Affected by Rain?
Saltwater fishing is influenced by rain, though not in the same way as freshwater fishing. Unlike freshwater bodies, which can rapidly change in temperature and clarity, the vastness of oceans and saltwater environments can sometimes buffer the impact of rain. However, there are still important factors to consider:
- Temperature Drop: A significant rainstorm can drop the temperature of the water, which might cause fish like tarpon, snook, and other saltwater species to become less active. On the other hand, a light drizzle might cool the water just enough to trigger feeding behavior.
- Salinity Changes: Rain can dilute the salinity of shallow estuaries and bays. This can attract certain high energy species, like redfish and flounder, which prefer brackish water. As rainwater mixes with saltwater, it can change the fish’s behavior and feeding patterns.
- Turbidity and Water Flow: Inshore areas, such as estuaries and tidal flats, can become murky after heavy rain due to increased runoff. This can help fish that hunt by smell to be more active and aggressive in feeding. However, strong rainfall can also push fish deeper or farther out to sea, making them harder to locate.
After Rain Fishing Strategies for Catching Walleyes
Walleye fishing after rain can be a productive time, but it requires some strategy. Walleye are particularly sensitive to water temperature and clarity, so understanding how these factors play out after rain can help you increase your chances of a good catch.
- Look for Sheltered Areas: After a rainstorm, walleyes often seek shelter in deeper or calmer areas where the water flow is not as intense. You can target areas around submerged rocks, structures, and drop-offs.
- Focus on Shallow Waters: Especially after light rain, walleyes tend to move into shallow waters to feed, as the rain brings in food sources like insects or baitfish. Cast near the shorelines, especially in the early morning or late evening when the fish are most active.
- Use Slow, Steady Retrievals: Walleyes are more likely to be sluggish after a rainstorm, so it’s important to use a slow retrieve when fishing for them. Lures like jigging spoons or soft plastics can be effective when retrieved slowly.
- Experiment with Depths: The rain might have caused changes in water clarity and depth. So, try fishing at varying depths until you find where the walleyes are holding.
Having The Right Rain Gear
When fishing after a heavy rain, having the right rain gear is crucial for your comfort and safety. Wet conditions can lead to discomfort or even illness if you’re not prepared. Here’s what you need:
- Waterproof Jacket and Pants: A high-quality waterproof jacket and pants will keep you dry and comfortable while fishing in cold rainy conditions.
- Waterproof Boots: Your feet are one of the first places to get wet. Investing in waterproof boots ensures that your feet stay dry and warm, allowing you to focus on fishing.
- Hat with a Brim: A wide-brimmed hat or cap will help keep rain off your face and glasses, improving visibility while fishing.
- Waterproof Gloves: Keeping your hands dry can help maintain a good grip on your fishing rod and tackle.
Fishing in the Rain: Tips and Techniques for Wet Weather Angling
Fishing in the rain can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience when you have the right mindset and techniques. Below are some of the best tips for fishing in wet weather:
- Keep Your Gear Dry: Even though you’ll be exposed to rain, it’s crucial to protect your tackle box, bait, and any electronics from getting soaked. A waterproof backpack or dry bags can help keep your essentials safe.
- Be Adaptable: Rain changes fishing conditions rapidly, so be flexible in your approach. If you don’t get bites in one area, don’t hesitate to move to another spot where the conditions may be better.
- Use Bright Colored Lures: Bright lures or baits can be highly effective when fishing in murky water after rain. They are more visible to fish, increasing your chances of attracting a bite.
- Pay Attention to Timing: Fish tend to be most active right before and after a rainstorm. This is when they’ll be feeding aggressively, making it the perfect time to cast your line.
Artificial Lures vs. Live Baits
When fishing after rain, both artificial lures and live baits can be effective, but each has its own advantages depending on the conditions.
– Artificial Lures: Brightly colored artificial lures, like crankbaits or spinnerbaits, are perfect for fishing in murky waters caused by rain. The noise, vibration, and color can attract fish even when visibility is low.
– Live Bait: Live bait, such as worms, minnows, or nightcrawlers, is often preferred in certain situations, especially if fish are seeking natural prey after the rain. Live bait tends to be more tempting for fish in areas with less water movement.
Waterproofing Your Gear For Rainy Fishing Conditions
To ensure that your gear lasts through rainy weather, it’s important to waterproof it as much as possible:
- Waterproof Cases: Use waterproof cases for your electronics, such as phones and GPS devices, and ensure your fishing tackle is stored in sealed, watertight boxes.
- Fishing Rods: While most fishing rods are built to handle wet conditions, it’s a good idea to periodically clean and dry your rods to prevent corrosion, especially after exposure to saltwater.
- Line and Reels: Keep your fishing line and reels clean and dry. Consider using a high-quality braided line, as it tends to resist water absorption and provides a strong, reliable performance even when wet.
Commonly Asked Questions about Fishing After it Rains (FAQs)
Can you fish in the rain?
Yes, you can catch fish in the rain! Rain oxygenates water and washes insects into it, often triggering feeding activity. Use bright lures and fish near runoff areas for best results.
Do fish bite after rain?
Yes, fish will move closer to the surface after rain due to increased insect activity and oxygen levels. This can enhance fishing opportunities immediately following a rainstorm.
Is fishing good after rain?
Yes, fishing is often good after rain. Increased insect activity and oxygen levels attract fish, making them more active and easier to catch in the hours following a rainstorm.
Do fish bite before a storm?
Yes, fish often bite before a storm. The drop in barometric pressure and increased feeding activity typically lead to more aggressive feeding, making fishing productive in the hours prior to a storm.
How does barometric pressure affect fishing?
Barometric pressure affects fishing by influencing fish behavior. When pressure drops, fish become more active, especially where water meets land, increasing feeding activity and improving after rain fishing chances.
Is it ideal to go fishing in the rain?
Yes, fishing in the rain can be ideal. Fish often move to deep water for shelter, increasing their activity, making them more likely to bite during and after rain.
What is inshore fishing?
Inshore fishing refers to catching fish within a few miles of shore, targeting species like redfish, snook, and trout in shallow bays, estuaries, and coastal waters.
How water temperature and oxygen affect fishing?
Water temperature and oxygen levels significantly affect fishing. Warmer water holds less oxygen, making fish less active, while optimal temperatures and higher oxygen levels promote feeding, improving fishing success.
How does barometric pressure affect fishing?
Barometric pressure affects fishing by influencing fish behavior. When pressure drops, fish tend to feed more actively, while high pressure can make them more lethargic and less likely to bite.
can you fish after it rains?
Why is fishing after rain often more successful?
Fishing after a heavy rain can lead to better chances of catching something because fish become more active. Rain causes insects and other food sources to wash into the water, attracting predatory fish and stimulating feeding behavior.
What types of fish are commonly caught after a heavy downpour?
Species such as trout, bass, and walleyes tend to be more active after rain. They often congregate in shallower waters where food is more abundant, making it an ideal time for anglers to go fishing.
How does water clarity change after rain?
Heavy rain can stir up sediment and create murky water conditions. This can affect fish visibility, but many fish species are still able to sense vibrations and odors, allowing them to find bait even in less clear water.
What are the best times to fish after rain?
Typically, the best times to fish are shortly after the rain stops, as fish are likely to be feeding actively. Additionally, overcast conditions can provide good fishing opportunities as fish tend to be less cautious in low light.
How does barometric pressure influence fishing after rain?
Barometric pressure often drops before and during rain storms, which can trigger fish to feed more aggressively. After rain, as the pressure stabilizes, fish may continue to be active for some time, providing good fishing conditions.
Can fishing in a lake be affected by heavy rain?
Yes, heavy rain can significantly impact lake fishing. It can increase runoff, leading to changes in water level and temperature. Fish may move to deeper water or congregate near eddies where food is washed in.
How does rain affect fish species behavior?
Rain can influence fish behavior by increasing their activity level and feeding patterns. Species like speckled trout and redfish may become more active during and after rain as they search for food that is washed into the water.
What precautions should anglers take when fishing after rain?
Anglers should be cautious of changing weather conditions, especially if thunderstorms are present. It’s advisable to wear rain gear and be prepared to leave the water immediately if thunder and lightning occur.
Conclusion
Can you fish after it rains? Is it good to fish after rain? Fishing after rain can be incredibly rewarding if approached with the right mindset and techniques. The changes in water temperature, flow, and clarity can make fish more active and hungry, especially during the cooler, post-rain periods. By understanding how rain affects fish behavior, choosing the right gear, and adapting your strategies, you can greatly increase your chances of a successful after rain fishing trip. Whether you’re targeting walleyes, saltwater species, or freshwater fish, the key is to stay patient, flexible, and prepared for the challenges that rainy conditions bring.
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