As the air cools and the leaves start to change, fall offers some of the best opportunities to be out on the water. Whether you’re fishing calm freshwater lakes or tackling the saltwater coast, fall fishing has its own unique rewards. Use these tips to make the most of the season and increase your chances of landing that perfect catch.
1. Follow the Baitfish
As temperatures drop, baitfish start moving, and the bigger fish follow. Where they go depends on your fishing spot:
- In coastal waters, mullet and other baitfish gather near inlets before migrating south.
- In tidal rivers, baitfish like minnows move from shallow creeks to deeper channels.
- In large lakes, shad often leave creek areas and head into the deeper, more stable waters.
By understanding where the baitfish are, you’ll know where the gamefish are likely to be.
2. Focus on Depth Changes
Fish tend to stick around areas with sudden depth changes as the water cools. Ledges, drop-offs, and channels offer easy access to both shallow and deep water, making them perfect spots for fish to hang out as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Cast along these transitions for better chances.
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3. Watch the Birds
Birds like gulls and terns are excellent indicators of fish activity. When you see them diving, they’re often feeding on baitfish that are pushed to the surface by larger predators. If you spot bird activity, it’s a good idea to cast your line in that area—chances are, the fish are biting.
4. Slow Down Your Retrieve
As the water cools, fish become less active and won’t chase fast-moving lures. Slow down your retrieve or trolling speed to match their reduced energy levels. A steady, slower approach will look more natural to fish in the fall and result in more bites.
5. Target Active Species
Not all fish respond the same way to dropping temperatures. While some slow down, others—like walleye, pike, and pickerel—become more aggressive. If your usual targets aren’t biting, switch it up and focus on species that thrive in cooler water.
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6. Use Larger Lures
In colder weather, fish tend to go for larger meals. They don’t want to waste energy chasing smaller prey, so using larger lures or bait can help attract bigger fish. By mimicking a substantial meal, you’ll increase your chances of getting their attention.
7. Seek Out Sun-Warmed Spots
On sunny fall days, certain areas warm up faster, attracting fish looking for slightly higher water temperatures. Shallow flats, dark-bottomed coves, or weed beds that soak up sunlight are perfect places to find active fish when the rest of the water feels colder.
8. Fish the Remaining Weeds
As weed beds start to die off, fish become more concentrated around the remaining pockets of vegetation. These spots offer cover for baitfish, which in turn attracts predators. Focus on the last standing weed beds for reliable action late in the season.
9. Match Your Lure to the Season
Fall brings a change in the types of baitfish and insects available, so be sure to adjust your lures accordingly. Fish can become very focused on specific prey, so choosing lures that mimic what’s naturally present will help you reel them in.
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10. Be Aware of Water Turnover
In some lakes, as surface water cools and sinks, the deeper, warmer water rises to the top. This process, known as turnover, can make fishing a bit tougher as the water becomes murkier and less oxygenated. However, fish often gather around depth transitions during this time, so once you find them, stick with it—they’re likely to stay in that area until conditions settle.
Ready to Hit the Water?
Fall is one of the most rewarding times to fish, with cooler temperatures and active fish ready for a bite. With these tips in your tackle box, you’re set to make the most of the season and land some memorable catches. So, gear up, stay warm, and get ready for a successful fall fishing adventure!
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