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Winter 2020
page 34
INCREASED COMFORT OF THE FISH
The prolonged low-light throughout the day in its entirety is one of the most important factors. A bass is dark in nature and under blue skies and clear water their presence becomes detectable by small prey fish. In turn making the bass less confident and less willing to travel a great distance to feed. But when the clouds roll in and the light becomes dim, they become more eager and almost have an arrogant sense about them. Knowing that they are now camouflaged against their surroundings they can effortlessly begin to stalk unsuspecting smaller fish.
FLAWS IN OUR PRESENTATIONS DISGUISED
Many of the largest fish that swim in our deep reservoirs are by far the toughest to trick. Using artificial lures that best resemble the natural forage is one of the best ways to achieve success.
But, even with the best action, finest paint job and perfect presentation, often times, these elusive giants are the wiser. However, on the days in which the commotion of Mother Nature conceals our presence and imperfections, we have the greatest chance.
A once distinguishable mishap or slight mistake by us as anglers suddenly goes unnoticed. The sound of the trolling motor becomes muted, the artificial appearances of our lures become undetectable and the splash of a giant lure hitting the surface becomes discrete, therefore drastically increasing the odds in our favor.
OTHER FACTORS AND HOW THEY CAN BE USED TO OUR ADVANTAGE
All storms are not created equal and they can be very dynamic in their own. But each composes of similar conditions that can trigger a feeding opportunity and should be payed close attention to.
Here are some triggering mechanisms that should be looked for when fishing on foul- weathered days:
RAIN
Most storms have period of heavy rain followed by a slight let up or break.
When the downpour is at its highest point is when the visibility for the fish is at its lowest. It is crucial to be is the right spot at the right time
when these outbreaks ensue. I can think of a handful of times when we were fishing a productive area during a let up in the storm and having little success. The moment the sky busted open and the waters surface became fragmented by heavy rainfall the big bites began to unfold.
WIND
This one can be kind of tricky as the fish will position themselves in locations that are getting hit hard by waves on some occasions and on others, they will be sitting in soft spots and resting just outside of the commotion. But almost certainly, when there is water movement nearby, there is an opportunity for ambush.
RUNNING WATER
After a few days of moisture, the trickling creek channels begin to rage and the once dry drainages will have a steady flow. Anytime there is water coming off the hillsides, there will be added nutrients pushed into the water. It creates a micro ecosystem and presents an opportunity for us anglers to capitalize on.
LURE SELECTION AND APPROACH
On these magical days, the fish are willing to cooperate and almost seem easy to catch. There are a variety of lures and rigging methods that will work well in these conditions.
For those who prefer finesse, I would recommend using a soft plastic that will displace water. Anything bulky with appendages is a good starting point.
If you decide to fish reaction baits, focus on vibration and flash. The wobble of a crankbait, rattle of a lipless or reflection off a bladed bait will allow the fish to hone in on your presentation.
But for me, being a trophy hunter and a big bait enthusiast, I would strongly encourage using a presentation that appeals to the largest fish in the body of water in which you are fishing. These can be some of the best days to get
crushed on giant swimbaits
and glidebaits.
So, the next time one of
these cold, wet and windy
days threatens to cancel your
fishing trip, keep in mind that
those giant bass might be
chewing.
And, the thought of
landing one should give you
a warm feeling of excitement
and get you through the day.
But, remember to always be
safe and make good decisions
when faced with inclement
weather conditions. •