By Caitlyn Gatrell
Have you ever tried dancing in the rain? How about fishing? While it may not sound like the first thing you have in mind when it comes to fishing, it’s something you maybe should consider! As someone who’s done it before, it can pose a few challenges but it’s a unique experience that devoted anglers should try! Of course, you should pay attention to the weather reports, stay clear from lightning, and keep safety first. Let me share some of my experiences fishing in the rain and things you should keep in mind.
My rainy trips usually play out like this: first, we head out to one of our local islands to collect some live bait. Around this time, the rain hasn’t started but we usually can see the dark clouds and rain in the near distance. Once we load up on bait, we head to our honey holes. Sometimes the rain falls on the way there, and other times it begins after we’ve arrived. We get all our gear out: rain jackets, hats, buffs, umbrellas, etc. and get ready for the downpour. Honestly, there’s not much you can do to escape the rain if fishing, you just have to be okay with getting pretty wet!
Once we’re fishing, it’s just a matter of time until the bite heats up. It’s usually best right before and after the peak of the storm. But sometimes we’ll fish during the middle too. It isn’t always the best time out there, sometimes we leave soaked, cold, and tired without a bite. But other times the whole crew may have hooked up to or caught some trophy catches. It’s always different. But if all the conditions align (moon phase, pressure, tide, etc.), and it’s a day we can go, we’re at least trying.
Typically, tarpon is our main target on rainy days. The sudden pressure switches get them pretty fired up. We use live mullet to entice them, sitting patiently while we wait for our lines to get whacked. Sometimes it’s instant, other times it’s a waiting game. Other species like jack, snook, and grouper usually make an appearance too. While I will always love and prefer a tarpon, I’m happy if I can just get something that puts up a good fight.
One thing about storm fishing is that it’s a little more challenging. The wind and waves are usually heightened, and then current flow is increased. That means when you do hook up to a fish, it’s a tougher battle as the odds are against you. Especially if you’re fighting a fish that’s swimming the opposite way in a current! But that makes it even more rewarding right?
Overall, it’s a challenging yet fulfilling experience that I recommend you try at least one time! Keep an eye on the conditions, get a bit out of your comfort zone, and enjoy it. Tight lines to all!