We have all seen the local fishing reports. “Great Fishing at Lucky Lake, Big Pig River, or Lunker Pond. In most cases, these areas are huge watersheds, or bodies of water.
So where do you go? Other anglers will be glad to tell you exactly where you can go. They have spent years searching out honey holes and are not very willing to share.
Finding fish is the first step in going fishing. This process is a great part of the sport. Honey Holes are often earned and not freely given away.
If you are on a wet water area, boats, tubes, rafts, and other floatation allow you to navigate the area. Fish finding electronics will help you find fish or structures where the fish may be found.
Hard water anglers need to travel across frozen waters. Using electronics will help them find Honey Holes. Usually this means drilling a hole and adding a transducer. Making test holes is a challenge.
Rookie anglers cozy up next to other anglers that are catching fish. In some cases, you may get told to find your own spots.” Ice Men” tend to be the most respectful and generous anglers. They will often share information. It doesn’t hurt to ask for advice and help.
Ultimately, the best teacher is experience from trial and error. Try different spots and places until you hook up.
Fish are where you find them. Consider what fish need to live. They want food, shelter, oxygenated water, and comfortable conditions. Not everywhere offers these needs.
Look for:
- Channels
- Structure
- Currents
- Fish Sign
- Points/Islands
- In and Out Flows
- Evidence of successful fishing
When you finally hook up, remember the Honey Holes. Consider what you did, where and why you did it. What were the weather conditions, seasons, etc. This is when education begins. Add this knowledge to your Tackle Box for future trips. You will be surprised how similar fishing spots are.
Catch a Biggun!
Montana Grant
