What’s the best way to fish during turnover?

Fishing during turnover can feel like playing a game where the rules keep changing. Just when you think you’ve got a rhythm, water temperatures are shifting, and fish behavior takes a dive! During turnover, the top layer of water mixes with the bottom water, which can stir up both temperature and oxygen levels, leaving fish a bit confused. But don’t fret! With the right strategies, you can still land a few good catches.

Understanding Turnover

Turnover usually happens in the spring and fall. In spring, as ice melts and waters warm, the stratification begins to break down. During the fall, cooler temperatures cause the warmer top layer to cool, eventually leading to mixing. This phenomenon impacts fish behavior dramatically, as they react to these changes in their environment. Fish, like bass and crappie, may move to different depths or locations in lakes and reservoirs in response to the shifting conditions.

During turnover, it’s crucial to keep in mind that fish might be skeptical about biting as they adjust to new water conditions. You may find them less active or lurking in shallower areas where they feel more secure.

Fish Location During Turnover

Relocating fish during turnover can be tricky. Typically, fish will move from deeper waters to shallower areas, where they might feel more comfortable with adequate oxygen. Here are a few tips to find them effectively during this period:

Follow the Temperature: Invest time in a good depth finder. Fish usually prefer water temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Use your depth finder to identify varying temperature layers and target those colder pockets, as fish often congregate there.

Look for Windblown Areas: Wind can help stir up the water, increasing oxygen levels, and pushing baitfish into shallower waters. Fish will follow their food source, so these windblown spots can be golden opportunities for you.

Target Entrances and Exits: If there are channels leading into or out of bays or creek mouths, these areas are often hotspots during turnover. Fish use these routes to navigate between deeper and shallower waters.

For more insights on finding good fishing spots, check out our article on how to find good fishing spots.

Best Techniques for Fishing During Turnover

Now that you know where to find fish, let’s dive into the best techniques for getting them to bite.

Try Slower Presentations: During turnover, fish aren’t always aggressive. Slowing down your retrieval can entice them to strike. Techniques like drop-shot rigging or wacky rigging plastic worms can be effective. When you bait slowly, it allows the fish to see and inspect it before making a decision.

Switch to More Natural Baits: Leveraging natural forage can be a game-changer. During turnover, fish are more likely to go after natural looking bait, such as worms or minnows. Lures that mimic these baits can be more successful than flashy designs.

Get Comfortable with Jigging: Vertical jigging is a favorite technique around this time. Dropping a jig down to where you detect fish can lead to some solid action. If you can see fish on your sonar but they’re hesitant, try varying the distance you’re holding your jig above their level. Sometimes, a slight adjustment in depth can make all the difference.

Explore our in-depth post on jig fishing techniques for extra tips on this strategy.

Adjusting to Changing Conditions

As the turnover progresses, conditions can change hourly, sometimes even minute by minute. You should be flexible in your approach:

Monitor Weather Changes: Weather has a massive impact on fish behavior. Keep an eye on atmospheric pressure changes and wind patterns during your fishing trip. Fish tend to be more active before a front moves in, so take advantage of those conditions when you can.

Experimentation is Key: If you’re not getting bites, don’t be afraid to shake things up. Switch up lures, baits, or the spots you’re fishing until you find what works. Sometimes even a change in color can trigger responses from fish that seem disinterested otherwise.

Don’t Give Up Too Soon: If the bite is slow, don’t be discouraged. Turnover can last several days, and patience often pays off. Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error before you find an active school.

If you’re curious about specific fishing techniques, check out our guide on basic fishing techniques to further enhance your skills.

Final Thoughts

Navigating fishing during turnover can be challenging, but it’s also a chance to hone your skills and adapt your strategies. By understanding where fish are likely to be, the right techniques for the conditions, and keeping an open mind about changes, you’ll increase your odds of landing some great catches even during this transition. With practice and observation, you’ll be able to turn these tricky days into fruitful adventures. So next time you hit the water during turnover, keep these tips in mind, and you might just come home with a story worth sharing at the dock! Happy fishing!