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LINCOLN — Even though summer is over, don’t put away the fishing gear yet. There are plenty of opportunities for excellent fall fishing in Nebraska.
The summer pattern of fish behavior gives way to the fall pattern when the air and water temperatures cool and the days shorten. Fish become more active and aggressive. Fall is the time for fish to fatten up – and become more susceptible to a lure in the process.
“Those fish know winter is coming,” said Nebraska Game and Parks Fisheries Outreach Program Manager Daryl Bauer. “A lot of species are starting to develop eggs and milt for next spring so they need that extra energy, and that means they are going to keep feeding right through the fall. That’s one reason why fishing in the fall can be so good.”
Bauer said there is less natural prey in the water in the fall, compared to the peak of summer. “That means those fish are looking a little harder for food,” he said. “And that means it’s a little more likely they’re going to find my bait or lure.”
As fall approaches winter and the water gets colder, fish will slow down. Anglers should slow their presentation, as well.
Here are some of Bauer’s tips for better fall fishing: Fish behavior – Fish generally still can be found shallow in the early fall, especially during stable, warm weather. Later, baitfish and larger sport fish start moving deeper. Still, warm afternoons may see some fish moving shallower again.
Where to find them – Structures with areas where shallow water is close to deep water tend to hold many fish. Fast-breaking points, creek channel bends, humps, or areas where shallow water is near deep water are spots where fish can be found in the fall.
Big fish like big baits – This is especially true in the fall. Not only have baitfish grown throughout the summer, predator fish, with the need to take in as much energy as possible, can gain more of that energy by eating larger prey items.
