Introduction
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, knowing what fish are in season can greatly enhance your fishing experience. This guide provides you with month-by-month insights into the types of fish you can expect to catch, along with tips to maximize your chances of a successful outing.
Spring Fishing (March to May)
As the ice thaws, waters warm up making spring an ideal time for fishing. Here’s what you can target:
- Bass: Pre-spawn in late spring, look for bass in shallow waters.
- Trout: Ideal in cooler, high-water flow conditions of early spring.
- Walleye: Best caught just after the ice melts in late April.
Summer Fishing (June to August)
Summer heats up the water and fishing activity, particularly in early morning and late evening:
- Catfish: Thrives in warmer waters, especially in rivers.
- Bass: Look for bass around structure like rocks and weeds during dawn and dusk.
- Bluegill: Easily caught from shore, making it great for beginners.
Fall Fishing (September to November)
Fall brings cooler water temperatures and a feeding frenzy as fish prepare for winter:
- Pike: Becomes more aggressive, especially in cooler, shallow waters.
- Muskellunge: Best in late fall, they feed actively pre-winter.
- Salmon: Fall runs can be spectacular, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.
Winter Fishing (December to February)
In many regions, winter means ice fishing. Here are some cold-weather fishing favorites:
- Walleye: Active during low-light conditions under the ice.
- Perch: Schooling fish that are more active during winter.
- Trout: Continues to be active if the water temperatures are not too cold.
Year-Round Fishing Tips
Maximize your fishing experience with these year-round tips:
- Weather Watch: Barometric pressure affects fish behavior. Low pressure usually means better bites.
- Moon Phases: Fish are known to be more active during a full moon.
- Water Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature as it often dictates where fish will be located.
