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Weather is a key determinant to the success of any bass fishing expedition because the feeding and behavioral patterns of the bass fish are sensitive to even the slightest changes in weather. This makes many anglers ask, “what is the best barometric pressure for bass fishing?”
What Is the Best Barometric Pressure for Bass Fishing?
The best barometric pressure for fishing bass or any species is between 29.70 and 30.40 inches of Mercury -1005.757 to 1029.462 millibar. These weather conditions are widely considered to be fair, favorable, and very flexible for all types of bass fishing techniques and equipment.
Pressure changes can have an impact on fish physiology and feeding patterns. This is why experienced anglers always advise constant monitoring of the pressure using a barometer, to ensure that the current weather conditions are optimal for fishing.
What Is Barometric Pressure?
Barometric pressure, also known as atmospheric pressure, is defined as the measurement of air pressure in the atmosphere. It is simply the amount of pressure caused by the weight of air molecules at a specific point on the Earth. The pressure varies with location and weather, being much lower at high altitudes and higher at low altitudes.
How Does Barometric Pressure Affect Bass Fishing?
Although the relationship between atmospheric pressure changes and bass activity has not been scientifically explained, seasoned anglers strongly believe that the pressure has an effect on bass activity based on their experience and observation of the fish.
When the pressure is high, anglers believe that a disproportionate amount of this pressure is placed on the swim bladder -which is responsible for helping the fish maintain buoyancy- creating an uneasy and heavy feeling for fish, especially in shallow waters where the pressure is felt more. This is responsible for the sluggish movement observed in the fish.
However, when the atmospheric pressure is low, the reverse is the case as the fish feels lighter and more comfortable. Bass will naturally bite more under these conditions because the falling pressure increases their activity and their willingness to hunt for food, especially in shallower water.
How to Measure Barometric Pressure for Bass Fishing
Atmospheric pressure is typically measured using a barometer. To calculate the pressure, there are four main steps to follow:
- Study the barometer under good lighting and record the pressure reading on the barometer
- After that is done, leave the barometer in an ideal location and check back in an hour
- Record the new reading seen on the barometer after an hour
- Once you have both readings, subtract the second pressure reading from the first. This will tell you by how much the pressure is rising or falling
- Do this frequently to keep track of the trends in your locale.
With the advent of technology, several weather apps will give you relatively accurate weather and pressure forecasts along with the predicted conditions. It is also advisable to invest in a fishing activity monitor as these handy barometers can help you monitor fishing conditions and predict how fish will behave.
Can You Fish for Bass Under High Atmospheric Pressure?
Yes, you can fish for bass under high atmospheric pressure. Despite the challenges fishing under high pressure may pose, it does not completely rule out the possibility of a good catch on such days. When pressure rises, bass will typically swim deeper into the water where there is a scarcity of food for them to feed on.
Due to this scarcity and the resulting hunger, the chances of the fish taking your bait and getting caught are significantly higher. Therefore, if you ever decide to go fishing for bass on days with high pressure, all you have to do is fish in deeper waters or areas with more cover.
Related Question
At What Temperature Do Bass Stop Biting?
Bass feeding activity declines at temperatures below 50 degrees and above 85 degrees. Bass are cold-blooded creatures, meaning that their body temperature is regulated by the surrounding water temperature.
Although bass are very resilient fish, they will not react properly to any bait in front of them at temperatures exceeding these ranges because they would be more focused on surviving than feeding.
What Time of the Day Is Best for Bass Fishing?
The time of the day that is best for fishing for bass is either dawn or dusk because of the low light and cool temperatures. During these periods, the fish tend to want to feed quickly before the heat and sunlight return, and are thus very likely to take on your bait.
Conclusion
From all the information provided above, you can see that atmospheric pressure plays an important role in fishing for bass. Before you embark on a fishing trip, make sure you are aware of the pressure and are maximally equipped to fish in such conditions.