Right Water Temperature For Fishing

Knowing the temperature range of the fish you are trying to catch is an important part of fishing.

March and sometimes April days tease us and then remind us that winter is still around. Spring will win out and we’ll be out there fishing.

One of the most important things for you to know, if you want to catch fish, is the water temperature.

Fish become more active and are more likely to take a properly presented bait when the water temperature is in the range they prefer.

That range is also different for each species.

Most fish species are cold-blooded, which means they do not and cannot control their internal body warmth.

As a result, their metabolism is strongly influenced by the temperature of their surrounding environment.

Some fish finders will show you the water temperature or you can buy water temperature/depth gauges that attach to your fishing line or you lower into the water.

The best water temperature range for different species of fish in different areas of the country can vary.

· know the water temperature

· where are the fish likely to be holding and at what depth

· what baits they prefer and even how you work the bait

Fish Temperatures

The temperature at which fish become more active (in degrees Fahrenheit):

Black Crappie: 71-75
Bluegills: 68-72
Brown Trout: 56-66
Channel Catfish: 82-88
Flathead Catfish: 84-88
Lake Trout: 50-55
Largemouth Bass: 65-75
Rainbow Trout: 62-64
Rock Bass: 70-74
Smallmouth Bass: 65-70
Steelhead Trout: 55-60
Walleye: 64-70
White Bass: 65-70
Yellow Perch: 68-72

Temperature change, and how fish react to the mercury climbing or dipping, is important knowledge for fishermen.

Knowing how fish react to their environment and throughout the various seasons can help hone your approach and improve your catch rates.

Cold and Warm-Water Fish

All species of freshwater fish are cold-blooded. Unable to maintain their body temperature at a constant level, their internal temperature and functions are influenced by the temperature of their surroundings.

This directly impacts when they eat and how much as well as their overall activity levels.

Cold and warm-water fish species have different temperature preferences and tolerances.

For example, lake trout, a cold-water species, can tolerate (survive) temperatures up to 70 to 73 °F but has a core preferred temperature range of 46-59 °F.

Smallmouth bass, a warm-water species, can tolerate temperatures up to 86 °F and prefer temperatures above 68 °F.

Other warm-water species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed can tolerate temperatures up to 97 °F.

The basis for these differences is found in the unique genetic makeup and biochemistry of each species. This controls their metabolism and determines their ability to tolerate a range of environmental conditions.

Fishes can be further classified, concerning temperature:

· cold water species

· cool water species

· warm-water species.

For example, walleye and yellow perch, northern pike and muskellunge, and some species of minnows and suckers are recognized as cool-water species.

These thermal differences explain the tendency of walleye, yellow perch, and northern pike to be active at colder temperatures than is typical of warm-water species and to be vulnerable to winter angling.

It also explains the more extensive northern distribution of the former because they have greater tolerance to cold conditions, especially concerning successful reproduction and survival of the young

Fish Through The Seasons

Warm-water fish, such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed, are an excellent target choice during the hot summer months, due to their preferred temperate range.

They can be located within shallow water during extreme heat (although often hidden undercover).  They feed very little once water temperatures plummet during late fall periods and over winter.

In sharp contrast, cold-water species, such as lake trout can be caught during the warm water periods of summer, but only in deep and cool waters, as recognized by their core temperature preference.

Fish will be found shallow during early spring, as water temperatures are significantly cool at this time of year, and fish will remain until the warmer water gradually pushes them deeper.

Walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, and other cool-water species are eager biters during spring and fall when lower water temperatures are more conducive to their thermal preference and are often a better bet to target (when in season) in comparison to warm-water species.

Keep an eye on the water temperature next time you hit the water. It will give you a clue as to what fish might be biting.

Color is also an important factor when it comes to fishing. Learn how to select fishing lure colors that appeal to your preferred quarry.