Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - January/February 2018 - 14
All-Weather
Angling
Sunlight
by Tyler Frantz
photos by the author
Weather patterns can be unpredictable. Bluebird days, overcast
skies, rain, wind and snow offer both challenges as well as
advantages when it comes to fishing opportunities.
But, hardcore anglers are going to hit the water regardless
of weather conditions, knowing they can boost their odds by
being flexible and adapting to what Mother Nature dictates.
Extreme temperatures
Whether the mercury sinks or soars, it's important to
know how fish react to extreme temperatures. Both have a
tendency to make fish a little sluggish as fish slip into energy
conservation mode.
During extended heat waves, it is best to give the fish a
break or seek out higher elevations of densely forested cover
where water remains cool year round to target Brook Trout.
If we get a long cold snap during the winter, check for safe
ice and hit the lake for some live minnow or jigging action.
Make safety a priority, and dress for the weather.
14
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater * January/February 2018
Sunlight can be both a blessing and a curse. When
water is clear, sunny days allow wading stream anglers to
sight-fish, or pick out the exact fish they wish to target,
laying in pools or near cover.
However, it also casts longer shadows, which can startle
fish since a fish's natural instinct is to flee from overhead
prey. Approach the stream from a low angle to the ground
or from the side of the stream opposite of the sun, so your
shadow will not be exposed over the water.
Wear polarized sunglasses to combat harsh glares, and
target fish in shaded haunts where they feel more secure,
taking refuge from the overhead sun.
Wind
Fly anglers know better than anyone how wind can
affect a long cast. On windy days, it can be difficult to
place presentations exactly where you want them, but it
also means fish will anticipate more food being blown into
the water.
Consider tying on a terrestrial pattern such as a beetle,
ant or inchworm and cast quartering into the wind near
streamside cover to take advantage of the feeding frenzy
that awaits below. Don't worry about perfect placement, but
be mindful to mend your line to ensure a drag free drift.
On the open water, wind also can impact boat control,
especially on smaller vessels. I have found that trolling on
breezy days allows me to cover more water, while utilizing
my motor's steady force to maintain better control of the
boat. If winds become gusty to the point of causing choppy
water conditions, it's best to head for shore.
www.gonefishingpa.com
http://www.gonefishingpa.com
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - January/February 2018
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