Lunar Fishing: Understanding Solunar Fishing & the Moon

Anglers are in constant pursuit of that special edge, the secret sauce to predict fish behaviour. While many think of bait choices, tackle intricacies, and understand the underwater landscape, some are looking upwards for answers – to the moon. Given the moon's influence on tides and various aspects of nature, could it play a role in carp behaviour, especially in the UK?

Moonlit waters hold a unique allure for anglers around the world. One age-old saying among fishing aficionados is, "The ideal fishing moment is when the fish are hungry." Surprisingly, the cycles of the moon can influence these moments. So, how can anglers leverage the moon phases in the UK to reel in bigger catches?

In this guide, we'll dive deep into the intricate dance between the moon and marine life, and how this knowledge can boost your fishing game.

The Science Behind Solunar Theory

The solunar theory, conceived by John Alden Knight in the 1930s, posits that the movement of the sun and moon affects wildlife activity, and fish are no exception. 

Solunar, derived from 'sol' (sun) and 'luna' (moon), embodies the idea that the moon’s phases and its relative position to the sun can influence fish feeding times.

Ever noticed the uncanny timing when fish become especially active and feed more aggressively? Knight did, and his research was the first to offer a structured approach to predicting this phenomenon.

At the heart of Solunar Fishing is the notion that fish, much like many other creatures, have behavioural patterns influenced by the moon's phases and position. The gravitational pull of the moon, and to a lesser extent the sun, affects tidal movements. Fish, especially those in tidal waters, feed primarily during the movement of the tides.

 What does the moon phases have to do with fishing? 

Add in natural factors like temperature fluctuations, atmospheric pressure, and wind patterns, and you have a multi-faceted puzzle. Most UK anglers already juggle these variables, but how many consider the moon phases?

How Do Lunar Cycles Affect Your Catch?

Many theories attempt to explain how fishing lunar phases impact fish behaviour. While some assert that the moon's gravitational pull modifies water conditions and subsequently, fish activity, others lean towards the illuminating power of the moon attracting fish.

Though the exact reason remains debated, empirical data indicates higher fishing success during certain moon phases.

1. Lunar Phases: It tracks the moon's relative position to Earth, divided primarily into the new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, and waning gibbous.

2. Solar Day: This measures the time between two consecutive sunrises.

Anglers often plan their trips around the major and minor moon phases for fishing, with major phases occurring during the new and full moon, indicating peak fish activity, and minor phases occurring during the first and last quarter moons, showing reduced but still significant activity.

What is the best and worst moon phase for fishing?

There are four main phases of the moon: the new moon, the first quarter, the full moon, and the last quarter. Fish are creatures bound by routine. Therefore, recognising the best moon phase for fishing can transform an ordinary fishing trip into an extraordinary one.

Lunar Fishing Calendar: Pinpointing the Prime Days

A moon phases calendar isn't just a piece of folklore; it's your secret advantage to mastering the waters. Consider downloading a moon phase calculator or using Time and Date’s lunar calendar when planning your fishing trip.

• Moon Alerts: Fishing lunar calendar apps mean that you never miss an optimal fishing window. Notifications are sent of the moon phase today UK and prime lunar fishing days tailored to your location.
• Historical Data: Cross-reference previous trips with lunar phases to understand patterns and improve your chances.
• Community Insights: Join a fishing community of anglers and share stories and tips.  Share locations that have brought success during specific dates on your fishing solar-lunar calendar.

Fish Responses to Full Moon Illumination

Trout: As if enchanted by moonlight, trout increase their nocturnal escapades. The full moon's brilliance captivates them, leading to heightened night activity. Don't be surprised if they're a little more elusive during the day.

Carp: A favourite among UK anglers, carp seem to develop a stronger nighttime appetite during the full moon. If there's an insect hatch aligning with this lunar phase, prepare for some intense action on the water!

Pike: While pike are typically daytime predators, under the full moon's illumination, their ambush strategy shifts slightly. They become more cautious but can still be targeted with success.

Sea Bass: Coastal anglers have long noticed the allure of the full moon on sea bass. The added illumination increases their foraging activity, especially along the shores.

Tench: Often dubbed the "doctor fish" of the freshwater world, tench subtly alter their feeding habits during a full moon. Dawn and dusk, during this phase, are particularly promising.

Mackerel: This swift-swimming species uses the added moonlight to its advantage, hunting smaller fish that are drawn to the surface by the moon's glow.

Fishing Tides and Moon Phases

A full moon exerts a powerful pull on our planet's waters, leading to more intense tidal flows. As a consequence, aquatic creatures, especially fish, expend more energy during these periods. 

This increased energy expenditure makes the days surrounding the full moon—both before and after—the best moon phase for saltwater fishing. The tidal force's apex during the full moon may contribute to the dip in successful catches on that exact day.

Distinguishing between high and low tides can be the difference between a bountiful catch and going home empty-handed. Therefore, mastering tide charts becomes indispensable.

Does moon phase affect freshwater fishing?

Fishing phases of the moon are believed by many anglers to influence freshwater fishing. While not conclusively proven, several points support this belief:

• Solunar Theory: Proposes fish are more active during specific lunar times.
• Gravitational Pull: The moon might subtly impact freshwater fish movement and feeding.
• Illumination: A full moon can change nocturnal fish behaviour due to increased visibility.
• Breeding Behaviour: Some fish spawn in relation to moon phases, affecting activity.
• Angler Observations: Many experienced fishermen plan trips based on the lunar calendar.

However, other factors like weather and water conditions also play crucial roles in fish behaviour and can override lunar influences.

Night vs. Day Fishing: What's More Fruitful?

Venturing out for bait fishing on a new moon night could yield superior results. The reason? Fish, feeling less threatened, tend to swim towards shallower waters under the moon's cover. Comparatively, during the day, fish gravitate towards deeper waters, away from shores.

Best Seasons for Solunar Fishing

While Solunar Theory is a year-round concept, its effectiveness can vary based on the season.

Spring and Autumn

During these transitional seasons, fish are more active as they prepare for the challenges of summer and winter. The combination of the moon's influence and increased fish activity can lead to fruitful fishing sessions.

Winter and Summer

Fish behaviour during these times is more influenced by temperatures. However, savvy anglers who combine knowledge of fish behaviour during these seasons with Solunar Theory can still experience success.

Additional Moon Factors to Consider

While the moon's influence is undeniable, other factors can further optimize fishing endeavours.

Weather Patterns

Fish are sensitive to changes in barometric pressure. A rapidly falling barometer, indicative of an approaching storm, can stimulate feeding activity. Conversely, a rising barometer can signal less active fish.

Water Clarity

Clear water can make fish more cautious and harder to catch. Conversely, slightly murky water can mask the angler's presence, leading to better results.

Local Knowledge

Familiarity with local waters and fish habits can significantly improve angling results. Combining this knowledge with Solunar Theory is a recipe for success.

Blood Moon Fishing

A blood moon, also known as a total lunar eclipse, occurs when the Earth's shadow fully covers the moon, giving it a reddish hue due to Rayleigh scattering of sunlight. Fishing during a blood moon can be a unique experience, as the unusual lighting may influence fish behaviour, although responses can vary among species.

Should UK Anglers Look to the Sky?

While there's no definitive answer, it’s evident that some anglers find a correlation between the moon phases and their angling success. Like many aspects of fishing, personal experiences vary. What's clear is that while the moon might have some influence, it's just one of the myriad factors in the angling equation.

For the anglers, this could be another dimension to consider in the quest for the elusive big catch. After all, in fishing, as in life, every little insight can help tilt the scales in our favour!

In conclusion, understanding the moon's phases and their subsequent impact on fishing can significantly influence your angling success. Whether you're planning a casual fishing trip or an intensive angling expedition, this knowledge can serve as a potent tool in your fishing arsenal.

FAQs on Moonlight & Fishing

Which phase of the moon is best for fishing?

The best phase for fishing is often during the new moon and full moon. These phases correspond with increased fish activity due to heightened gravitational pull.

Is it better to fish on a full moon or new moon?

Both the full moon and the new moon are productive fishing times. However, a full moon can provide added light at night, making nocturnal species more active. Conversely, the new moon's darkness can be beneficial for daytime fishing as fish are less cautious.

When is the best time to go fishing?

The recommended fishing times include:

· During sunset and sunrise.

· An hour pre and post-high tide.

· An hour pre and post-low tide.

· Moonrise and moonset periods.

· When atmospheric pressure is consistent or increasing.

· Favorable winds blowing from the west.

What is the best moon phase for carp fishing?

The best carp fishing moon phase is often considered the new moon and the full moon. During these phases, carp show increased nocturnal feeding activity, especially if insect hatches align with these lunar periods. However, it's essential to consider local conditions, weather, and water temperature, as they can also impact carp behaviour.