Shorter days, cooler
nights and fewer bugs are signs that autumn is getting closer. Fish are
starting to go on a feeding frenzy to prepare for winter and next spring’s
spawn. For anglers, that means some of the best fishing of the year is
right around the corner.
Joe Larscheid, chief of
the DNR’s Fisheries Bureau, says fall is a close second to spring as the top
season to fish because the fish will get into predictable patterns making them
easier to locate.
“Panfish, especially
yellow perch, will form large schools as the water temperature cools so look
for a lot of boats in one area. In the rivers, fish will move to the
deepest holes for the winter so fishing the outside bends of the river is a
good strategy,” Larscheid said. “Fall is often overlooked as a prime
fishing time because many of us are in hunting mode or are busy with school
activities, but there is excellent fishing to be had and many of our trophy
fish are caught in the fall.”
Using live bait,
particularly minnows, and a slower presentation are keys when fishing in cooler
water. Targeting areas of a lake or river where the water is warmer can
also improve success. In lakes, shallow water along the north shore will
be warmer and in lakes and rivers, areas where small creeks enter will be warmer.
With school back in
session, not only will the competition for the best fishing spots be less, but
the campgrounds will also be less busy. Combining a fishing and fall camping
trip to a state park when the leaves are turning makes for a perfect outdoor
weekend.
“Catching fish during
the day and sitting around the campfire at night in the fall in my book makes
for a great weekend,” Larscheid said.
For the latest
information on fishing, camping, hunting and fall colors, go to www.iowadnr.gov.
MEDIA
CONTACT: Joe Larscheid, Chief
of Fisheries, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, 515-281-5208.
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