Why did our grandparents head out to their favorite fishing spot before dawn? What makes dusk and dawn the best times to fish?

Shift Change

Below the water’s surface is a constant rhythm of day and night just as there is on land. Nocturnal fish head for deeper waters to rest as the sun rises, while diurnal fish swim closer to the surface at first light. Using sound lures and topwater lures an hour or two before sunrise gives fishermen an opportunity to go after a greater number of fish during these transition periods.

Staying on the water at dawn has a few advantages. Start by shallow-casting. As the sun gets higher, cast deeper to maximize your potential catch. Take in the glorious sunrise and enjoy the fact that you can catch your limit before breakfast.

Moon Phases

If you are a new sportsman, the idea of fumbling around in the dark for a rod and reel may seem strange. But if you follow moon phases for their effects on tides – and carry a good flashlight – the reward may be well worth the effort. Conventional wisdom is that fish are more active in higher tides. Tides are highest twice a month: on new moons and full moons. During a new moon, the sun and moon pull on the tides from the same direction. During a full moon tides are being pulled in opposite directions.

You can listen to a local fishing report for the best times of day to fish, but old-timers will tell you there’s nothing better than a Farmer’s Almanac to predict the best mornings and evenings to set out. View next month’s almanac predictions or buy a copy for just $8.99 for one year. The almanac takes moon phases and other local factors into consideration.

So, it turns out our grandparents knew exactly what they were doing, sneaking out the door before dawn to spend time on the lake. Getting a jump on the day is a great strategy for getting a great catch!