The most successful technique for finding fish starts with the process of elimination. As you begin to understand the habits and habitat of your quarry, you start to figure out where the species you seek won’t be. Being creatures of habit, fish tend to frequent particular areas on a regular basis when conditions are the same. That should help to narrow the search area. Even without advanced knowledge, follow a systematic approach geared to continue to eliminate places where the fish are not holding.
Freshwater bass fishermen coined the term “pattern” to describe the behavior of some fish at a given time. Several patterns may be in effect at the same time, but you only need to uncover one. Professional guides may seem like magicians at times, but they really aren’t. They attribute their success to places where the fish could be based on today’s conditions, where they were yesterday and just plain experience. If they don’t find fish in the first spot, they go through the process of elimination until they are successful.
Fish seek comfort in terms of water temperature, edges, food supply, depth, currents, and water quality. Signs of life head the list in any search process. An abundance of seabirds or wading birds indicates food is present. Schools of bait on the surface or even single dimples made by forage species make an area worthy of further exploration. On the shallow flats, sharks and rays often serve as indicators that more desirable species are present.
A depth sounder becomes a vital tool in locating bottom structure and underwater habitat where fish may be holding. On the offshore grounds, if fish are being caught at a specific depth in one location, there is a strong possibility they will be at the same depth somewhere else.
Alertness on the water ranks as a critical factor. Your eyes must scan the surface from your feet to the horizon just as search radar never stops sweeping. Concentration is essential. Not only are you looking for signs of fish, but factors such as a change in water color, currents, or weedlines. Bluewater offshore is a better venue than green water. Dirty water in estuaries may force fish to find cleaner water. One exception is when baitfish forage on the bottom and stir up mud. These are areas worth trying.
Any animal gravitates toward an edge, which is a transitional zone where a change is taking place. Be sure to work both sides of an edge until you find where the fish are holding. If you can find an edge, there’s a good chance you will find fish. Another great place to locate your quarry is in the neck of a funnel where a large area drains through a narrow inlet or channel. Fish will wait here for the current to bring food to them.
Finding fish, like any research project focuses on elimination. Every decision you make should be based on valid reasoning. Start with the spot you feel offers the best opportunity for success and work down the list. As long as you keep eliminating options, you should increase your effectiveness. If it works for professional captains, it should work for you.