By : Katie Rojas
Knowing where to fish during each season plays a major role in how successful you’ll be on the water. At the core, fish are focused on two things: finding food and avoiding predators. Keeping that in mind makes it easier to narrow down where they’re likely to be. Most of the time, fish will position themselves near a food source or close to cover where they can feed while staying protected.
Spring: As water begins to warm, fish move into shallow areas, typically 3–5 feet deep, to feed and prepare for spawning.
Summer: With rising temperatures, fish often shift into deeper water, usually 6–20 feet, where conditions are more stable.
Fall: As temperatures cool, fish return to shallow water, again around 3–5 feet, following baitfish and feeding more actively.
Winter: In colder conditions, fish move back to deeper water, generally 6–20 feet, where they conserve energy.
To simplify things even further, many anglers rely on the 3's; when searching for fish: Shade, Safety, and Snacks. These three elements consistently point you in the right direction, no matter the season.
Shade: Fish are naturally drawn to shaded areas, especially on bright days. Look for docks, overhanging trees, or any structure that blocks direct sunlight and provides a comfortable resting area.
Safety: Fish are always aware of predators, so they tend to stay close to cover. Brush piles, rocks, and man-made structures like bridge columns all provide protection. Even in shallow water, fish often position themselves near deeper areas so they can retreat quickly if needed.
Snacks: Food is a constant priority. Before casting, take a moment to look for signs of life like minnows, insects, or crawfish. Areas with active food sources are much more likely to hold fish.
Timing can make a big difference, and fishing during low-light periods often produces the best results. Fish tend to be more active and willing to feed when the light is softer.
Early morning: The first few hours before full daylight, when fish are actively feeding.
Late evening: The last hour before dark, another key feeding window.
Overcast days: Cloud cover reduces light penetration, often keeping fish active longer throughout the day.
Choosing between a spincast combo and a spinning combo comes down to your experience level and how you plan to fish. Each option offers its own advantages depending on the situation.
Easy to use
Better line control to prevent twists
No backlash
Limited casting range
Less accuracy
Lower line capacity
Slower retrieve rate
Longer casting distance
Works well with lighter lines and bait
Larger line capacity
Faster retrieve rate
More prone to line tangles and twists
Requires more experience to cast effectively
When you’re just starting out, the most important thing you can do is keep it simple and focus on having fun. Fishing offers a wide range of techniques, but building confidence and learning how fish behave will take you further than trying to master everything at once. Start with the basics, enjoy the experience, and let your skills develop over time.
For panfish such as sunfish, bluegill, and perch, live crickets and worms are a great choice.
For bass or crappie, live minnows are often more effective.
Small- to medium-sized options like plastic jigs or worms are versatile and easy to use.
Small hooks for live bait
Small weights
Small or medium bobbers
Pliers for cutting line and removing hooks
Gloves
Fishing line (typically 6–10 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon)
Water and snacks
Easy-to-use, durable, and built with a no-tangle design.
Contemporary styling with simple operation, available in telescopic models.
Reliable, no-tangle design with included tackle for quick setup.
Smooth operation with a modern design, available in telescopic options.
Durable construction with a variety of size options.
Equipped with audio and visual indicators to alert anglers when a fish is on the line.
Available in both spinning and spincast, designed for smaller hands and easy storage.
Available in both spinning and spincast, designed for smaller hands and easy storage.
