Be a Student of the Game

fishing science

Fishing is not an exact science. So why is it that the same elite anglers show up near the top of the weigh-in board at every tournament? Whether the tournament is for bass, crappie or walleye, these same characters are always dominant.

Even in local club competition or amateur trails, the same names loom above others. Can they throw a lure farther or do they apply a certain hocus-pocus magic potion to the lure every cast? Does Mother Nature smile on these same individuals and give them an uncanny inherent advantage?

My bet would be that it is not always the fanciest-attired dude or the guy with the fastest boat that is the most successful. The smartest anglers are the ones who rise to the top. And even if you don’t fish tournaments, you can learn something from these scholars of the sport.

Careful study of forecasted weather condition, the rise and fall of barometric pressures and wind speed and direction all play into a game plan for a day of fishing. Projected lake levels, rain and amount of rainfall, fresh water, mud lines, safety factors, time of year, water temperatures… the list goes on, but a smart angler considers each and every variable and studies their effects on the fish. Applying all these factors into an indelible memory of past experiences is crucial. That is, along with an ample amount of good common sense.

The best anglers also have complete knowledge of their electronic equipment. The ability to utilize all available tools properly provides a leg up. Careful study of charts and maps during pre-tournament days and weeks also adds to the confidence level necessary for combat. Yes combat. Competitors in any sport must have a certain tenacity coupled with mental and physical preparedness as well as God-given physical abilities and talent to be champions. Although the normal every-day angler might not need or desire the competitive drive of the top pros, knowledge and competence make catching fish easier.

Fishing Science & Utilizing Locals

I am reminded of many years ago when it was acceptable for the pros to attain information from locals within a certain time window of an upcoming tournament. A top pro, “no names please,” was using me for lake orientation. I told him about a school of bass I had found using an underwater camera. I could not get them to hit anything I tried. Upon arriving at this spot, he analyzed the situation and requested the front seat while rapidly tying on a drop-shot rig. His expertise had me spellbound as he boated several nice fish.

The tournament was several weeks away, and he did not return to this same spot, but I learned a very beneficial new technique. We can all learn from the success of others by paying close attention to why others are winning, while relying on plain old luck.

Billy Darby is a retired professional guide on Lake Eufaula. You can reach him at

imfishing4u@windstream.net or 229-768-2369.

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