Fishing While Raining: Steps for Wet Weather Angling Success

Fishing While Raining: Steps for Wet Weather Angling Success

What is it? Why should you use it? Types of tshirt

Key takeaways

  •  Rain activates fish: Increased oxygen, cooler temperatures, and food influx make fish more active and likely to bite.
  •  Use noisy, bright lures: In murky water, loud lures (like buzzbaits) and bright colors (such as chartreuse) attract fish better.
  •  Target runoff areas: Fish congregate near culverts, creek inlets, and shorelines where rain washes in food.
  •  Safety first: Always check weather forecasts, be aware of lightning risks, and use proper rain gear to stay dry and comfortable.

Have you ever looked out the window on a rainy day and thought, "Well, there goes my fishing trip"? Think again! Fishing while raining can actually be one of the most rewarding experiences for anglers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into why you should embrace the rain, how to make the most of these wet conditions, and everything you need to know to become a master of rainy day fishing.

Why Fish in the Rain?

Rainy weather creates a unique environment that can seriously amp up your fishing game. Let's break down the reasons why fishing in the rain can be so productive:

1. Fish Get Active

Rain does more than just make the water wet. It actually changes the water conditions in ways that can benefit fish and, by extension, anglers:

  • Oxygenation: As raindrops hit the water surface, they introduce tiny air bubbles. This process increases the oxygen levels in the water, especially in the upper layers. More oxygen means more active fish, as they can breathe easier and have more energy.
  • Temperature Changes: Rain often cools the water, particularly in the summer months. Many fish species become more active in cooler water, as it's more comfortable for them. This temperature change can trigger feeding behavior.
  • Water Movement: Rain creates currents and water movement, which many fish species find attractive. It mimics natural food-rich environments and can stimulate their predatory instincts.

2. Feeding Frenzy

Heavy rains don't just add water to lakes and rivers – they bring a buffet with them:

  • Insect Activity: Many insects become more active just before and during light rain. This increased activity on the water's surface can trigger feeding behavior in fish.
  • Runoff Bonanza: Rain washes insects, worms, and other small creatures into the water from surrounding land. This sudden influx of food can trigger a feeding frenzy among fish.
  • Dislodged Underwater Food: The disturbance caused by rain can dislodge aquatic insects and small creatures from their hiding spots, making them easy prey for fish.

3. Fish Feel Safer

Rainy conditions can make fish feel more secure, which often translates to more aggressive feeding behavior:

  • Reduced Visibility: Raindrops on the water's surface and increased water turbidity reduce visibility both above and below the water. This makes it harder for fish to spot potential danger, including anglers.
  • Sound Masking: The sound of rain hitting the water can mask other noises that might normally spook fish, such as footsteps on a bank or a boat motor.
  • Low Light Conditions: Overcast skies associated with rain create low light conditions that many fish species prefer for feeding, especially predatory fish like bass and pike.

Why Fishing in the Rain Can Be Great

💧

Fish Get Active

Rain increases oxygen levels and cools water temperatures, making fish more energetic and likely to bite.

🐛

Feeding Frenzy

Rain washes insects and small creatures into the water, triggering increased feeding activity among fish.

🌫️

Fish Feel Safer

Reduced visibility and masked sounds make fish feel more secure, often leading to more aggressive feeding behavior.

🎣

Prime Fishing Spots

Areas like culverts, creek inlets, and shorelines become hotspots for feeding fish during rain.

Best Techniques for Rainy Day Fishing

Now that we understand why fishing in the rain can be so productive, let's explore how to make the most of these conditions:

1. Go Loud or Go Home

In murky, rainy conditions, fish rely more on their lateral lines (sensory organs that detect vibrations) to locate prey. This is where noisy lures come into play:

  • Buzzbaits: These lures create a lot of surface commotion, which can attract fish from a distance. The vibration and noise mimic struggling prey on the surface.
  • Poppers: These create a "popping" sound when retrieved, imitating prey on the water's surface. The sound can draw curious fish from deeper water.
  • Rattling Crankbaits: These lures have internal rattles that create vibrations as they move through the water. In low visibility conditions, these vibrations can be irresistible to predatory fish.

Technique tip: Vary your retrieval speed and rhythm to find what the fish are responding to on any given day.

2. Speed It Up

Rain often makes fish more aggressive and spread out. This calls for a change in your retrieval tactics:

  • Cover More Water: By retrieving your lures faster, you can cover more area and increase your chances of encountering active fish.
  • Trigger Reaction Strikes: Fast-moving lures can trigger a predatory response in fish, causing them to strike even if they're not actively feeding.
  • Mimic Fleeing Prey: Quick retrieves can mimic prey fish trying to escape, which can be irresistible to predatory species.

Remember, though, that "faster" doesn't always mean as fast as you can reel. Experiment with different speeds to find what works best on any given day.

3. Follow the Food

During rain, certain areas become hotspots for feeding fish. Target these areas for the best results:

  • Culverts and Drains: These areas often have concentrated runoff, which can bring a lot of food into the water. Fish often gather near these spots to take advantage of the easy meal.
  • Creek Inlets: Where creeks or streams enter larger bodies of water, there's often an influx of food and changes in water temperature. These factors can attract feeding fish.
  • Mud Lines: Areas where clear water meets muddy water (often created by runoff) can be prime feeding zones. Fish often patrol these edges, picking off disoriented prey.
  • Shorelines: Rain can wash terrestrial insects and other prey into the water along shorelines, attracting feeding fish.

Tip: Pay attention to wind direction during rain. Fish often position themselves on the windward side of a lake or pond, where food is likely to be blown.

4. Brighten Up Your Bait

In stained or murky water caused by rain, bright colors can help your lure stand out:

  • Chartreuse: This bright yellow-green color is highly visible in dirty water and can attract fish from a distance.
  • Orange: Especially effective in stained water, orange can mimic the color of many prey fish.
  • Red: In darker conditions, red can appear black to fish, creating a strong silhouette that can trigger strikes.
  • White: In heavily stained water, white can provide a good contrast and visibility.

Don't be afraid to use lures that are brighter or more garish than you might normally choose. The goal is visibility in tough conditions.

Best Techniques for Rainy Day Fishing

🔊

1. Go Loud or Go Home

In murky conditions, use noisy lures to attract fish.

  • Buzzbaits for surface commotion
  • Poppers for "popping" sounds
  • Rattling crankbaits for underwater vibrations

2. Speed It Up

Rain often makes fish more aggressive. Adapt your retrieval tactics.

  • Cover more water with faster retrieves
  • Trigger reaction strikes
  • Mimic fleeing prey
🍴

3. Follow the Food

Target areas where fish are likely to feed during rain.

  • Fish near culverts and drains
  • Focus on creek inlets
  • Look for mud lines
  • Cast along shorelines
🌈

4. Brighten Up Your Bait

Use bright colors to make your lure stand out in murky water.

  • Chartreuse for high visibility
  • Orange to mimic prey fish
  • Red for strong silhouettes
  • White for contrast in stained water

What Fish to Target?

While many fish species can become more active during rain, some are particularly well-known for their rainy day feeding habits:

1. Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth)

Bass fishing can be exceptional during rainy weather:

  • They often move closer to the surface, making them perfect targets for topwater lures.
  • Target areas near shore where runoff is entering the water.
  • Use darker-colored soft plastics in murky water conditions.

2. Trout

Trout, especially in streams and rivers, can become very active during light rain:

  • Focus on areas where rainwater runoff enters the stream, as these spots can concentrate food.
  • Use nymphs or streamers to imitate the increased insect activity.
  • Be cautious of rapidly rising water levels in small streams during heavy rain.

3. Catfish

Catfish are well-known for their increased activity during and after rain:

  • They often move into shallower areas to feed during rain.
  • Use smelly baits like cut bait or prepared catfish bait to take advantage of their strong sense of smell.
  • Target areas near creek mouths or where runoff enters the water.

4. Crappie

Crappie can be very responsive to rainy conditions:

  • They often move to shallower water during rain, especially around structure.
  • Use small jigs or minnows under a float.
  • Concentrate on areas near drop-offs or submerged structure.

5. Walleye

Walleye fishing can be productive during light rain or drizzle:

  • They may move shallower to feed during low-light, rainy conditions.
  • Use brightly colored jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics.
  • Focus on points, drop-offs, and other structures where walleye might ambush prey.

Gearing Up for Rainy Day Fishing

Don't let the rain dampen your spirits or your equipment. Here's what you need:

  • Weather-proof Clothing: Invest in good weather-proof fishing clothes. Stay dry, stay comfortable, stay fishing. Check out our guide on choosing the right fishing shirt.
  • Water-Resistant Tackle Backpack: Keep your gear organized and dry with a water-resistant backpack. Look for one with multiple compartments for easy access. Here's a guide to choosing a fishing tackle bag.
  • Water-Resistant Tackle Box: Protect your lures and tools from moisture.

Safety First!

While fishing in the rain can be productive and enjoyable, safety should always be your top priority:

1. Weather Awareness

  • Check Forecasts: Before heading out, check detailed weather forecasts. Be aware of any severe weather warnings.
  • Lightning Safety: If you see lightning or hear thunder, it's time to leave the water immediately. No fish is worth the risk of a lightning strike.
  • Flash Flood Awareness: If fishing in or near streams or rivers, be aware of the potential for rapidly rising water levels.

2. Boat Safety

If you're fishing from a boat:

  • Bilge Pump: Ensure your bilge pump is working correctly to remove any rainwater that accumulates.
  • Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip mats or apply non-slip tape to your boat's surfaces to prevent accidents.
  • Visibility: In low visibility conditions, make sure your navigation lights are working and use them as required.

3. Personal Safety

  • Tell Someone: Always let someone know where you're going and when you plan to return.
  • First Aid Kit: Carry a waterproof first aid kit with you.
  • Mobile Phone: Keep your phone in a waterproof case for emergencies.

Conclusion

Fishing in the rain isn't just possible – it can be downright fantastic. With the right gear, techniques, and attitude, you can turn a rainy day into an epic fishing adventure. The rain brings unique conditions that can lead to some of the most productive and exciting fishing you'll ever experience.

Remember, success in rainy day fishing comes down to understanding how the rain affects fish behavior, adapting your techniques accordingly, and being prepared for the conditions. So next time the forecast shows rain, don't cancel your fishing plans. Instead, gear up, head out, and get ready for some of the best fishing you've ever experienced!

Whether you're casting for bass in a misty lake, tracking trout in a drizzly stream, or going after catfish in a stormy river, rainy day fishing offers opportunities you won't want to miss. Embrace the rain, and you might just land the catch of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it safe to fish in the rain?

Generally, yes, it's safe to fish in light to moderate rain. However, you should always prioritize safety. Avoid fishing during thunderstorms or severe weather conditions. Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards like slippery surfaces or rising water levels.

2. What are the best lures for fishing in the rain?

Some effective lures for rainy conditions include topwater lures like buzzbaits and poppers, as well as brightly colored or noisy lures that can attract fish in murky water. Spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, and crankbaits with rattles can also be very effective. For more information on lure selection, check out our guide on understanding different kinds of fishing lures.

3. Do fish bite more when it's raining?

Often, yes. Many fish species become more active during rain due to factors like increased oxygen in the water, cooler temperatures, and an influx of food sources washed into the water. However, extremely heavy rain can sometimes have the opposite effect, pushing fish deeper or making them less active.

4. What should I wear when fishing in the rain?

Waterproof or water-resistant clothing is essential. This includes a good rain jacket, waterproof pants, and waterproof boots. For more detailed advice, see our guide on choosing fishing shirts.

5. Can I still use electronic fish finders in the rain?

Yes, most modern fish finders are designed to be water-resistant and can function in rainy conditions. However, it's always a good idea to check your specific model's weather rating and take precautions to protect any sensitive electronics from excessive moisture.

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