TRY NIGHT FISHING FOR GREAT FUN

Night fishing for catfish is a relaxing and peaceful pursuit. The whine of the reel as line pays out to a spot in the structure or vegetation. It seems so much louder in the night. It is a beautiful sound as the bait hits the water with a muffled splash. Placing the rod in the rod holder the angler sits down to enjoy the experience.

Y-e-o-o-w!!!, comes a cry across the water. Sitting on fish hook can bring home to one that organization is also important in nighttime angling.

Night fishing becomes important this time of year for two basic reasons: weather and recreational pressure. The heat of the day is often oppressive and the cooler temperatures of evening bring out feeding fish and angles looking for relief. Recreational boating pressure from non-anglers makes the daylight hours less productive for the angler.

During the summer the fish's metabolism is at a high point and he feeds frequently. The weather may be hot but there is a distinct lack of fronts going through to upset his lifestyle. The lush vegetation, provides ambush points for the catfish to lay in wait and allow the hapless minnows come to him. Competition for the food source from other fish is low as the weeds tend to scatter the fish of all species.

The water near the surface is warm and tends to be uncomfortable for the catfish. It is generally inhabited by smaller fish as they try to escape the big guys who are trying to eat them. The larger fish are found deeper in the comfort zone that is best of them.

Sitting on bait is not the only reason for organization in night fishing. Safety is another. It is important that the angler know the body of water well. If not already familiar with it, perhaps one should spend a day or two scouting during the daytime hours.

Learn where navigational dangers are to be found. This can be things like abandoned bridge or dock pilings. It also should include shallow water areas and submerged logs.

Once back at night, it is important that the angler is sure his night vision is in working order. Do not look at bright lights as that will temporarily spoil the night vision for several minutes.

It is important to close tackle boxes and stow unused rods out of the way. The fewer objects around the better for safety. Any tackle or coolers are best located about an arms length from the angler. This lessens the need to get up and walk around. You do not want something that could lead to trips and injuries in your area. It is a good idea to wear a PFD (personal floatation device) in case of an accidental fall into the darkness.

Night fishing is not all that productive right after sunset. One can use those hours to get into position for the nights action. By getting into position one can be sure of finding just the right location for the evening’s activities.

Night fishing is more comfortable from an angler's point of view. But, it also is a time when his senses become more alert and fine-tuned to the environment. Try it you will like it!

Don Gasaway – The Ground Pounder

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