Reading the Signs?

[George Cawthorn]

Hello to all Prostaffers from most of the time sunny California!!

This is a question about reading the signs. The signs that often occur outside of the water that you have come to know from experience indicate that fishing will be good on a particular day or at a particular time of day.

For example, at the lake where I fish the most there are a few heron that hang around the lake. I have noticed that when they are sitting idly on the rocks and not eating fishing is slow. When they are walking around in the water feeding, fishing is usually pretty good.

I have also noticed that when there are a lot of birds of prey around, hawks and peregrine falcons swooping down and nailing small fish just below the surface.... fishing is usually very good.

Also, I have noticed that there is one type of dragonfly that I see around the shores of the lake sometimes. It is small iridescent metallic blue in color and when those dragonflies are around the bass seem to be biting pretty good.

These small blue dragonflies cruise low over the surface of the water and I have even seen bass jump out of the water and catch them on the fly.

My question for the Prostaffers is this. Have you guys noticed any other animal signs or events outside of the water that tell you fishing is going to be good?

OH!! I almost forgot. I have learned from experience that rainbows going into the lake right in front of where you are fishing is a definite indicator that fishing may be incredibly good! (see photo)

Thanks for all your answers!!

Good fishing to you guys, later............. geobass

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[mofish]

First thing that is an awsome picture!

My Grandfather told me that when the cows are up feeding the fishing and hunting will be good. When they are laying around in the shade you might as well do the same. So far it has held true.

I agree with the birds they are a good indicator.

THis is a good topic be interesting to see what other have to say.

[johnnie crain outdoors]

Good topic,
I am constantly aware of everything going on while I'm outdoors. I watch the domestic animals and wild animals while enroute to the fishing destination. When there is a lot of activety, it does appear the fishing is better than normal. I seem to also notice a greater than normal number of insects when the fishing is good. Some that bite and some that don't. When the leaves on trees are turning upside down, I'm assured I'll have a good day, but that also means a storm is coming which also means good fishing. As for the birds, I'm not sure. I've caught nice fish when the birds were swooping over the water and when they were flying up in the jetstream as well. But as mentioned, when those birds are at waters edge feeding, you can have a great day. I also like to see a lot of turtles sunning on logs and lots of snakes. Usually seeing more than normal snakes means the water is rising a little which can cause fish to get active. Lets hear some more. Johnnie

[carl]

Don't know how I missed this post since I find the topic fascinating. Can't add much, only if seagualls are diving, bait fish are on the surface. I've had the little devils pick up crank baits and try to fly off. Often wondered about blue herrons; I see them mostly on points, but haven't made any connection with how the fish are biting.

Good luck, Carl

[Roboworm99]

This is topic is covered in the Dec Bassmaster