Some tips for safe night time fishing
WILLIAMSON COUNTY - Night fishing for catfish is a relaxing and peaceful pursuit. The whine of the reel as line pays out to a spot in that honey hole of structure or vegetation. It seems so much louder in the night stillness. It is a beautiful sound as the bait hits the water with a muffled splash. Placing the rod in the rod holder you the angler sit down to enjoy the experience.
Y-e-o-o-w! comes a cry across the water. Sitting on fishhook can bring home to you thee importance of tackle organization in nighttime angling.
Night fishing becomes important this time of year for two basic reasons: weather and recreational pressure. The heat of the day is often oppressive and the cooler temperatures of evening bring out feeding fish and angles looking for relief. Recreational boating pressure from non-anglers can also make the daylight hours less productive for the angler.
A fish's metabolism during summer is at a high point and requires him to feed frequently. The weather may be hot but there is a distinct lack of fronts going through to upset his lifestyle. Lush vegetation provides ambush points for the catfish to lay in wait and allow the hapless minnows to come to him. Competition for the food source from other fish is diminished. Weeds tend to scatter the fish of all species as they can relate to more widespread vegetation.
During the daylight hours the water near the surface is warm and tends to be uncomfortable for catfish. Smaller fish as they try to escape the big guys who are trying to eat them generally inhabit it. The larger fish are deeper in the comfort zone that is best of them.
Sitting on a lure is not the only reason for organization in night fishing. Safety is another. It is important that you know the body of water well. If not already familiar with it, perhaps one should spend a day or two scouting during the daytime.
Learn where navigational dangers are located. This can be things like abandoned bridge or dock pilings. It also should include shallow water areas and submerged logs.
Once back at night, it is important that the angler is sure his night vision is in working order. Do not look at any bright lights, as that will temporarily spoil the night vision for several minutes.
It is important to close tackle boxes and stow unused rods out of the way. The fewer objects you have around the deck, the better for safety. Any tackle or coolers are best located about an arm's length from the angler. This lessens the need to get up and walk around. You do not want something that could lead to tripping and injuries in your area. It is a good idea to wear a PFD (personal flotation device) in case of an accidental fall into the darkness.
Night fishing is not all that productive right after sunset. One can use those hours to get into position for the nights action. That way you can be sure of finding just the right location for the evening's activities.
Night fishing is more comfortable from an angler's point of view. It also is a time when his senses become more alert and fine-tuned to the environment. Try it you will like it!
For more information on lodging accommodations as well as outdoor activities in Williamson County, or to receive a free color Water, Woods & Wildlife in Williamson County Guide, contact VisitSI at 1602 Sioux Drive, Marion, IL 62959. Call 800-GEESE-99 or email info@VisitSI.com. Current information is also available online at www.VisitSI.com.