Barometric Pressure Effects on Fishing

[PAkev]

My understanding is that periods of high and low barometric pressure effect fishing success and therefore also influence successful strategies.<br /><br />Although I understand the basics of this phenonemon placing more or less pressure on a fishes swim bladder, how does it affect fishing strategy?<br /><br />Helpful advice appreciated.<br />Kevin

 

[LadyFish]

Re: Barometric Pressure Effects on Fishing

I find this really interesting. I did a little research and found this:<br /><br />It has been known for a long time that the barometric pressure has an effect on fishing. How the pressure directly effects the fish is still not fully understood, but knowing how to use the barometric pressure readings can greatly increase your chances of catching fish, especially in shallow and fresh waters.<br /><br />Barometric pressure is the measure of the weight of the atmosphere above us. It exerts pressure on the waters we fish and even on us. In fact, it can change how well some people feel. It is believed by many, that it may have a similar and even more dramatic effect on fish effecting their feeding habits.<br /><br />It is important, however, to note that the effects of barometric pressure is greater in fresh and shallow waters, than it is in deeper waters. This is probably due to the fact that the pressure of water is so much greater in deeper waters making the air pressure above it no longer having any significance.<br /><br /> Some general rules regarding barometric pressure are:<br /> Link to table <br /> <br />It is important to note that after a long feeding period, the action will slow regardless of the following conditions. On the flip side, a long period of poor fishing conditions may be followed by a really good one.<br /><br />It is also important to note, that the barometric pressure is just one of many factors that effect fish feeding habits. Other effects include water temperature, light, tidal forces, water clarity, the pH level, water levels, wind/surface disturbance, boat traffic, fishing pressure, and so on. Another good judging factor of fishing is the solunar effects which play a role in the tidal and illumination factors.

 

[jtexas]

Re: Barometric Pressure Effects on Fishing

Ever notice how small children & animals get more active when a storm is aproaching? <br /><br />I believe changes, especially increases in barometric pressure is more important than the reading itself because that's the fish's clue that a change in the weather is coming, like a cold front or a storm. Events that make foraging more difficult because maybe the baitfish scatter, or other food sources farther down the food chain become scarce, like bugs won't be hatching, or whatever. So they try to get a good meal in now so they won't have to waste energy hunting tomorrow when the chances of success are diminished.<br /><br />it's just a theory.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Barometric Pressure Effects on Fishing

As far as Bass fishing in shallow lakes goes, I saw an underwater movie of Bass after a high preasure front moved in after a light rain storm in the summer, and the divers could actually reach down and pick up the Bass that were just lying on the bottom. Some were actually leaning over partially on there sides. I know that it is true here on the coast of Oregon on my home lake, that if it has been raining, or even just a low preasure has been here for a few days, that if it turns blue bird clear overnight, you may as well stay home.