Any avid fisherman or woman will tell you that river fishing is a different kind of sport. Many anglers consider river fishing to be relaxing and something that doesn’t always require a lot of gear. You can fish right from the shoreline or riverbank just as easily as out on a boat. With that in mind, here are some river fishing tips for all the anglers out there:
Assess the Water
The big difference between river fishing and other types is that you have to think strategically because there?s a current involved. Often, in swift flowing rivers, like the Mississippi, fish will seek refuge in the calmer backwaters. Fast flowing rivers can create eddies that occur in the space downstream from or behind large exposed rocks or debris. An eddy is a term that describes the swirling and reverse currents that form from an obstruction in the flow of water. Insects and other bait-like things can get caught in the eddies which is why you?ll often find these spots to be great for fishing.
Use Your Bait
Try bouncing live bait off the bottom of the river to lure fish. Be sure to bounce the bait with the current as opposed to against it. Make sure you research the right lures for river fishing. Rivers can be murky, calm, rough, rocky, fast, or a combination of any of those things. That said, different areas may require different lures.
Know the Lay of the Land
As previously mentioned, some patches of the river will be extra weedy, some will have islands you can fish from. Chances are, if you come across an overly weedy part of the river, you’ve probably stumbled into some prime fishing. With the current and flow of the water, many fish like to make the weeds their home. Some of the island areas of the river can have some great fishing as well. Just be careful if you wade out there?drop offs can come on suddenly! If you get a good feel of the lay of the land you can determine the depth, shape, and movement of the water. You?ll have an easier time finding where the fish are hiding!
If you’re looking for a seasonal community on the river, check out Travelers Country Club on the Mississippi. We have one of the best fishing spots around!