1. **Early Morning:** During dawn, fish are often more active as they feed after the night. Live bait such as worms, minnows, or shad can be very effective. For example, using a small live minnow on a hook can attract species like bass and crappie.
2. **Midday:** As the sun rises, fish may retreat to deeper waters or seek shade. At this time, using artificial lures like jigs or soft plastics can be beneficial. Bright colors can help attract fish in clear water, while natural colors work better in murky conditions.
3. **Late Afternoon to Dusk:** As the sun begins to set, fish become active again. This is a great time for topwater lures or surface baits, such as poppers or frogs. The noise and movement can provoke strikes from predatory fish like pike and bass.
4. **Night Fishing:** At night, fish tend to rely more on their sense of smell and hearing. Using glow-in-the-dark lures or live bait like nightcrawlers can be effective. For instance, catfish are known to be very active at night and can be caught using cut bait or stink bait.
5. **Seasonal Considerations:** Additionally, consider the season. In spring, fish are often spawning and may prefer smaller, more delicate baits. During summer, larger baits can be effective as fish are feeding heavily.
Experimenting with different baits during these times can help you find what works best in your specific fishing location. Always pay attention to local fishing reports and talk to fellow anglers for insights on what’s currently working in your area.
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