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Writer's pictureBait The Fish

What is Pre and Post Spawning?

Do you hear people say that pre and post spawning are the best times to go fishing? Here's why.


Pre-spawn fishing refers to the period before fish begin to spawn. During this time, fish are actively feeding and preparing for the upcoming spawning season. Anglers can take advantage of this by targeting areas where fish are congregating, such as near spawning beds or in deeper water where they are staging.


During the pre-spawn period, water temperatures play a crucial role in the behavior of fish. As water temperatures begin to rise in the spring, fish become more active and start moving towards their spawning grounds. Different species of fish have specific temperature ranges that trigger their spawning behavior.


For example, largemouth bass typically start spawning when water temperatures reach around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Other species, such as crappie or walleye, may spawn at slightly different temperature ranges. It is important for anglers to monitor water temperatures in their local fishing spots to determine when fish are likely to be in the pre-spawn stage.


When water temperatures are in the ideal range for pre-spawn activity, fish will be more active and feeding in preparation for spawning. Anglers can target these fish by focusing on areas where they are staging, such as near spawning beds or in deeper water adjacent to these areas.


By understanding the relationship between water temperatures and pre-spawn fishing behavior, anglers can increase their chances of success on the water during this important time of year.


Post-spawn fishing, on the other hand, occurs after fish have completed spawning. Fish may be more scattered during this time as they recover from the spawning process. Anglers can still have success by targeting areas where fish are moving back to their summer feeding grounds, such as points, drop-offs, or weed beds.


After fish have completed spawning, water temperatures continue to play a significant role in their behavior. Post-spawn fish may be recovering from the spawning process and transitioning back to their summer feeding patterns. Water temperatures during the post-spawn period can vary depending on the species of fish and the location.


For example, largemouth bass may start moving to deeper water or seeking out cooler, shaded areas as water temperatures rise during the post-spawn period. Other species, such as crappie or walleye, may also adjust their behavior based on water temperatures.


Anglers should monitor water temperatures to determine where fish are likely to be located during the post-spawn period. Fish may be more scattered and less predictable during this time, so it is important to be flexible and adapt fishing techniques accordingly.


It is important to adjust your fishing techniques and strategies based on the behavior of the fish during these different stages. By understanding the pre and post-spawn patterns of fish, anglers can increase their chances of success on the water.

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