Solunar Fishing: How the Moon Impacts Your Catch

What can enhance your fishing success? Have you ever heard of the Solunar calendar? This article will explore this topic in detail. The Solunar calendar is based on the phases of the Moon and their relationship to fish activity.

The idea that the Moon can influence fish behavior seems strange. However, it is scientifically based. Solar fishing is based on the Moon's high and low tide movement.

Skeptics consider this method too theoretical. However, many anglers testify to its effectiveness. Can a Solunar calendar make the difference between average and outstanding fishing? 

This topic opens the door to an interesting discussion about how the moon affects the underwater world. Join us in another exciting adventure!

The Origin of the Solunar Theory

Solunar theory, the basis of many modern fishing calendars, is rooted in John Alden Knight's work. Knight was an American writer and avid angler who analyzed the various factors that could influence fishing success in 1926. In his search, he identified key elements. 

According to him, these are the Moon's phases, the tides, and the Sun's and Moon's positions. He developed a theory linking the Moon's cycles to fish activity by combining these natural rhythms.

Knight analyzed more than 30 factors, including weather conditions, seasons, and water temperature. Then, the focus shifted to lunar and solar influences. He presented a calendar of ideal periods for fishing based on the exact position of the Moon and the Sun. His theory soon gained popularity among anglers, and many have confirmed its accuracy through practice.

The solunar theory is not just a fishing trick, it is a fascinating insight into the connection between natural rhythms and animal behavior. Knight's idea opened new doors in the influence of natural cycles on life in water and land. However, the scientific community needs to be more cohesive regarding its credibility. 

Lunar Periods: When Is the Right Time to Fish 

Anglers often notice that fish activity varies throughout the day. The solar theory suggests that these rhythms are closely related to the Moon's position. Each day includes four key lunar periods. 

There are two major and two minor periods. Prime periods occur when the Moon is above or below the horizon. They usually last about two hours. These periods are considered the best moments for fishing. On the other hand, smaller periods coincide with the rising and setting of the Moon. They last about an hour.

During these periods, the fish are more active. This is because lunar gravity affects their behavior and foraging habits. Anglers following these periods witness more significant fish activity and frequent bites. They are the ones who point out the main periods as the best time for fishing. Although it does not guarantee a catch in every case, these intervals are considered optimal to increase the chances.

The prime periods are particularly attractive, allowing anglers to catch larger and more active fish. Combined with the lunar calendar, anglers can strategically use these natural rhythms to optimize their time on the water.

Moon Phases: Best Days of the Month for Fishing

Anglers have long associated the moon's phases with success on the water. They rely on the four main phases of the moon: the new moon, the first quarter, the full moon, and the last quarter. 

New and full moons are considered to provide the best fishing opportunities. This is when the strongest tides occur. When the Sun and Moon are aligned during a New Moon or on opposite sides of the Earth during a Full Moon, gravitational forces create strong ocean currents. These currents drive the fish to search for food.

However, opinions on which stage is best vary among anglers. Some prefer fishing during the first, claiming the fish are calmer and more manageable to lure. Others advise night fishing during a Full Moon. The moonlight allows the fish better visibility. Some believe that daytime fishing during the New Moon is ideal. Then, total darkness limits fish activity at night.

Combining the right lunar period and the Moon's phase can increase the chances of a catch. Fishing during the main lunar period and the full moon can yield record catches.

Problems with Fishing During a Full or New Moon

Fishing during a full or New Moon is ideal due to increased fish activity. However, these lunar periods also bring specific challenges. One of the main problems is the strong tides accompanying these moon phases. 

Strong gravitational pulls create intense changes in water levels, making access to certain fishing spots difficult and threatening fishermen's safety. In addition, these sudden changes in the water can disrupt fish's natural behavior patterns, making it difficult to predict their movements.

Another common problem is crowding. Anglers who know the benefits of these lunar phases often flock to the same spots, leading to overcrowding and a reduction in fishing space, which can negatively affect the quality of the experience. 

For those who practice night fishing during a full moon, moonlight can present an additional challenge. Light allows fish to see better and makes them more cautious.

What Science Says About Solunar Fishing Calendars

Solun calendars represent a fascinating combination of natural sciences and fishing practice. They are based on the idea that the phases and positions of the moon directly affect fish behavior. The scientific community is divided over their accuracy and effectiveness.

The Beginnings of Theory

John Alden Knight developed the theory of solunar calendars in the 1920s. He studied the Moon's position during over 200 recorded catches of record-sized fish. 

The results showed that even 90% of those catches were made during the New Moon. Based on this data, Knight concluded that the moon's phases can significantly affect fish behavior. He devised a solunar calendar to help anglers determine the ideal time to fish.

One of the additional experiments that supported this theory was conducted on oysters. Biologist Frank Brown noted that oysters open their shells per high tide. When oysters were transported far from their natural habitat, they continued to respond to the positions of the Moon. They adjusted to when the Moon was directly above or below them. This suggested that lunar cycles may influence the behavior of marine organisms.

Confronting Scientific Skepticism

Some later research has shown that the theory is only sometimes applicable. Professor Mike Allen has conducted extensive research. He researched the effect of moon phases on Bass fishing. With the help of trophy angler Porter Hall, he analyzed bass catches in different month phases. 

The results showed that the catch was evenly distributed throughout the month. There was no significant increase during the new or full moon. Approximately 21% of catches occurred during the New Moon, and 28% were recorded during the full moon, indicating little difference.

Similar research was conducted on Marlin in New Zealand. Researcher Sam Mossman analyzed catches of this type of fish over 84 years. The results showed that the catches were consistent during all the Moon phases. The only slight increase was observed just before the Full Moon.

Fish Responses to Full Moon Illumination

In this part, he discussed the Full Moon's influence on specific types of fish. 

• Mackerel: Use extra moonlight to catch smaller fish. These fast fish use the Full Moon as an advantage to find prey more efficiently. This is especially pronounced during the night.

• Trout: This fish becomes highly active at night during a Full Moon. Moonlight stimulates their need for food. They are usually more withdrawn during the day, which makes them more challenging to catch.

• Carp: During the night, Caps become very active. This is significantly pronounced when the Moon's phases coincide with the emergence of insects. This can lead to very dynamic fishing.

• Pike: Under the Full Moon's light, Pike becomes more cautious. Their hunting tactics are changing, but they can still be caught.

• Sea Bass: They become more active during the Full Moon. They use the extra light to increase their food search. 

These changes in fish behavior during the Full Moon indicate that the lunar phases significantly influence their activity.

Additional Moon Factors to Consider

The Moon's influence plays a vital role in fishing, but other factors can also improve one's chances of success on the water.

Atmospheric Pressure

Fish are susceptible to changes in atmospheric pressure. When the barometer drops sharply, the fish become more active and feed intensively. Increasing pressure often marks a period of reduced activity as the fish become calmer and less interested in the bait.

Water Clarity

Water quality plays a significant role. In clear waters, fish may be more cautious. In such an environment, they can more easily notice the presence of anglers and bait. Slightly cloudy water provides a certain camouflage and often provides better results because the visibility of the danger to the fish is reduced.

Knowledge of Location

A detailed understanding of the specific characteristics of local waters can contribute significantly to success. When this knowledge is combined with the Solunar Theory, the chances of catching are multiplied.

Fishing During the Blood Moon

The Blood Moon, which appears during a total eclipse, creates unique conditions on the water. Due to its specific reddish color, fish's behavior can change. 

Some species may be attracted to an unusual atmosphere, while others may show less interest in food. Fishing under these extraordinary conditions provides a unique experience for every angler. 

Combining these factors with a basic knowledge of the moon's phases increases the chances of a great catch.

Final Thoughts

What could we conclude at the end? Is this theory a myth, or is it true? Well, the phases of the Moon undoubtedly affect fishing. They have a remarkable influence through the tides that shape the habits of many fish. 

However, other factors often have a more significant influence on fishing success. These are weather, water temperature, and local conditions. Each moon phase can bring moments of exceptional catch but also challenges.

Most anglers need help to adjust their schedules to ideal lunar conditions. A long-planned fishing trip should not be canceled because of an "unfavorable" Moon phase. 

Experience, knowledge of the terrain, and flexibility are key success factors. The best way to test the Solunar theory is to include it in your practice and record the results. Fishing is, above all, a combination of knowledge, passion, and enjoyment of nature.

What is your story about fishing during the different phases of the Moon? Have you noticed a significant difference? Please share your impressions!