Date: 9/12/07
Contact: C. Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127, ext. 3500

GEARING UP FOR FALL FISHING

The kids are heading back to school and that means the days will grow shorter and most importantly cooler. Traditionally in southern Nevada the fishing action in the urban ponds tends to drop off with the arrival of fall; warm water fish like bass, bluegill and catfish don’t bite as readily as they were during the warmer months. On the other hand, water temperatures are still too warm for trout plants, but at Lake Mead and Lake Mohave fall can be the most productive season for striped, smallmouth and largemouth bass.

“Because they are so large, Lakes Mead and Mohave cool down at a much slower rate than the smaller ponds around town. Fish such as the striped bass actually prefer water in the mid-60s to -70s. That makes fall is a great time for shore fishermen who are then able to land some of the larger stripers because the big fish feel more comfortable near the surface as the water is cooling down,” said Ivy Santee, aquatic education coordinator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

Various methods can be productive during this time of year, from bait fishing with anchovies, squid and shrimp to tossing lures, such as sassy shads, top water poppers, and rattle traps.

“Don’t be afraid to try many types of lures, like my friend who caught one of the biggest fish of his life while playing with a lure that was given to him,” Santee said. “If you really want to increase your chances of catching whoppers, the real success stories come from the anglers who persevere and don’t give up on these great waters just because they had a slow fishing day.”

The best times to hit the water are early in the morning, late in the evening and even after dark. By 9:00 a.m. most of the fish have stopped feeding and won’t resume feeding until nightfall. Coincidentally, that’s when the fishing is most comfortable for the fishermen also.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.