Fishing in Tough Conditions

Springtime winds have been tough on both fresh and saltwater anglers. A light wind is really a blessing for anglers, as it seems to stimulate fish into biting. Calm days may be comfortable and nice, but generally fishing is slow compared to days with slight winds.

For the past several weeks my cameraman and I have fought winds that have proven at times even too tough for us to fish in. At some point fishing in strong wind becomes unenjoyable as we try to keep our boat positioned and hopefully stay dry. I have to keep reminding myself that the wind is an angler’s friend, but I long for us to get into our summer pattern of light breezes.

Cold fronts have kept fishing action slower than normal, as water temperatures are cooler for this time of year. Such was the case when we launched our Stratos boat last week on Cedar Creek Lake (located about 70 miles East of Dallas). With water temperatures in the mid 60’s, air temperature in the low 50’s and a 0 mph wind, we had the entire lake to ourselves. It was miserable, I must admit. But we needed to at least try to put some good action on videotape.

Main lake points are always a good place to start on any lake. Typically they offer fish deep water and fishermen a bit of protection from wind. Plus baitfish are usually active on windy points and, if so, game fish are not far behind. With 3-foot waves pounding the first point I went to work with a shad rap crank bait. Using the trolling motor to position the boat, waves began to beat us and we thought it would be “one of those days.”

But, after I had retrieved the lure about halfway, I had a fish on. Turned out to be an 18” white bass. The next cast a 24” hybrid striper tried to steal my lure, but he wound up in the live well.

The wind continued to blow and we struggled to keep the boat from crashing into boat docks and the shoreline. But we continuously caught fish as we jumped from point to point. By the end of our day, the wind had calmed down and so did the fish action. Considering the conditions, we wound up with more than we ever expected.

Most anglers won’t expose themselves to tough fishing conditions and it is certainly understandable. Fishing is supposed to be fun and bad weather can make it miserable. Preparing yourself mentally and physically for bad weather is essential for success. Safety of course is the number one priority.

Just as important as it is to have a good life jacket, or first aid kit, it is important to carry a change of dry clothes and a good rain suit. Even though we’re in a warmer weather pattern now, once you are wet, the wind can make you miserable. Catching fish in high winds is tough on fishermen. So be prepared to battle the wind both mentally and physically.