It is a scientific fact that fish are sensitive to light and more active in low-light conditions. Recognizing that fact and timing your trip with these conditions in mind can improve your fishing success. It is not by accident that early morning and late evening fishing have historically resulted in better catches.
Especially in the summer time, when water temperatures are higher, the early morning and late evening bite can be strong. With little light available to see your bait the silhouette becomes more important than the color. Chose dark colors and a profile that simulates the natural bait of the area you are fishing.
Topwater baits like the High Roller “Rip Roller” or “Chug Roller” can elicit explosive strikes from aggressive fish. The added disturbance of this type of lure on the water’s surface aids the fish in seeing the bait.
If the topwater bite is lacking try one of the many soft plastic baits available on the market today. Those made by DOA are especially effective. These baits are normally worked below the surface and imitate wounded or disoriented bait fish. A cast – reel – flick the wrist type of retrieve is all that is needed to get a hook up.
As fall approaches and the water cools down considerably you can forget the early morning departure and sleep in. Wait until the sun warms the water temperature a few degrees before venturing out. With a high sun on cooler days you can still fish by low-light rules by searching for shadows cast by seawalls, docks or other structure that provides an ambush point for predator fish.