Don’t let the rain deter you from fishing.
In fact, trout fishing CAN even be easier when it rains.
Just like with humans, the weather affects fish behavior. And just because humans normally prefer to stay indoors in the rain, that does not mean the same goes with trout.
You will actually be surprised to know what the rain does to trout and why trout fishing in the rain may prove to be a fun and rewarding activity.
So let’s go ahead and find out more how to catch trout in the rain including insider tips and tricks of the trade that beginner and pro anglers need to know.
What Does Rain Have to Do with Trout Behavior?
Many anglers have experienced not having an abundance of fish to catch during certain weather conditions.
For instance, there are those who have discovered that trouts appear to be feeding more actively when it is cloudy than during the bright and hot sunny day. The latter sometimes tends to be the time where they snuggle up to the bottom of the water, making them pretty tricky to catch.
When it is sunny, this causes the water to heat up and keeps the lethargic fish underwater. With less oxygen present in the water, the last thing they want is to surface up and feed.
But it is worth noting that many fish species do not consider rain as their favorite weather pattern. For those that feed on insects, rain is the time to go out there and catch those critters and forego bunking down deeper in the water.
Three things happen during or after a shower:
1. Insects head close to the water surface.
This is a given. You are likely to see a bunch of insects huddle near the surface of the water following a little shower. Rain beetles are an example, and these are suckers for the rain, along with mosquitoes that are the least bit bothered by a few raindrops.
2. Organic matters are a-plenty during the rain.
When it rains, organic matters make their way into the bodies of water as rain flushes them out. These are obviously irresistible for fish species that consider these things as food.
3. Warm fronts turn the metabolism of fish species on.
Sometimes, the rain has a higher temperature overall than the water. This generates warm fronts that facilitate the fish’s metabolism. And you know what happens when their metabolism gets hyperactive…
They get fiercely hungry! With insects and organic matters heading to the surface of the water, this is the perfect combo that a starving fish has been waiting for. They do all they can to extinguish that deep feeding desire until they attain a state of satiation.
But rain does not always entail feeding time for the fish…
In the case of precipitation that is accompanied by a colder temperature than the water’s temps, this will only trigger the fish to stay underwater. They will be the least bit interested in biting or surfacing up to catch some critters to eat.
This is why it is crucial for anglers to be aware of the temperature underwater and above water to determine how their game will react.
Check out this cool and insightful video about fishing and the rain:
What Happens to Trout When It Rains
So we mentioned trout fishing in the rain, and you’re probably eager to find out if this is the perfect weather pattern to snag that most-coveted trout…
Let us take a look at how the rain affects trout, so you can figure out if it is the time to get your angling equipment ready for trout fishing action.
1. Vision
Trout has an impeccable vision. They rely on their perfect eyesight to grab their bite simultaneously in multiple directions.
If you plan on catching trout in clear water (i.e. sunny day), it can be tough to stalk that stealthy steelhead or brown trout because they’re extra keen on feeling your presence up there. But the story changes drastically when it rains…
With rainfall, this alters the color of the water and also impacts your game fish’s behavior. The rather murkier water becomes kind of a shield that prevents your target from sensing your presence, as well as your fishing line.
2. Feeding and Appetite
Trout love to eat.
This is why 80 percent of their waking moment is spent on foraging and munching on insects who are suckers for crustaceans.
When the rain comes, this washes nightcrawlers and insects from twigs and branches. Trout favorites such as minnows leave their burrows and get in the water. So what happens next is a food fest for your dear little trout – and a great catch for you, my friend!
5 Winning Tips for Trout Fishing in the Rain
Now that you know that rain is a good sign to get you in position for trout fishing, let us dive deep on what you need to do to boost your chances of a great catch. Here are insider tips for you:
1. Figure out the perfect location for trout fishing.
The first thing is to know where to start looking for fish.
Basically, still and moving waters are great habitats for this fish species. You can find an abundance of them in ponds, streams, lakes, and rivers. As long as it is cool and clean, these bodies of water should be an excellent resource of food for trout such as crawfish, crustaceans, aquatic insects, and the like.
If you are attempting to catch some trout in a pond or a lake, your best bet is anywhere that is close to some form of aquatic vegetation. We are talking about solid structures, around logs, stumps, and rocks that should serve is great hiding and feeding spots for a trout.
The same goes true with rivers and streams. Where there are slow pools and undercut banks, our lazy little trout should not have to work too hard to get food because of the current ushering tasty bites their way.
2. Right Time to Go Trout Fishing
So now you know where to position yourself to catch that trout, the next thing to know is the time of the day to get in action.
We recommend just prior to a storm or a heavy downpour or during an overcast morning. These are great situations that keep the conditions low-light, which serves as your ally for trout fishing.
3. Get your baits ready.
The more variety of lures you’ve got, the better.
Our top choices include streamers, spinners, dry flies, and nymphs. These are excellent baits and lures to use as they are irresistible in the eyes of a hungry trout.
Be sure to use dark-colored ones, as these are a much richer contrast during an overcast sky. Trouts should be able to see them clearly when the surface of the water is a little on the murky side.
It is also worth checking the condition and depth of the water where you are fishing. Knowing the size of the insect you are trying to imitate with your lure also goes a long way when it comes to gaining success in catching a trout.
4. Gear up for trout fishing.
You need to wear the right piece of clothing and accessories for catching that trout in the rain.
Never underestimate the value of quality clothing, and this includes your gloves, boots, hats, and jackets, to name a few. Waterproof and warm clothing can help you stay comfortable and protected from the cold. You also need to make sure that your fishing outfit is durable and can withstand even the toughest waste matters.
5. Prepare your equipment.
Take a look at your fishing equipment in your supplies kit.
Keep in mind that trout are pretty heavy fish species requiring strong and sturdy tools. Do not toy with the idea that you can get away with a flimsy rod and reel for these guys.
Bring out your strongest rod and reel combo and get your best bait hooks and bobbers. Pack a good bag of gear that will show that unsuspecting trout who’s boss!
For your guidance and additional tips, here is a video on the top trout fishing mistakes you should avoid
Types of Lure for Trout Fishing in the Rain
Let us talk about lure for a minute…
We know that there are dozens of lures out there, and if you do not know what you are doing, you may just end up using the wrong kind that will jeopardize your angling game.
This is why we like to touch on this topic to give you better guidance on which lure to use for your target.
1. Streamers and Nymphs
Nymphs resemble a trout’s sub-aquatic favorite, which is perfect for a hatch. Our recommendation is that you get yourself nymphs with a natural appearance, which highly resembles an aquatic insect. With a trout’s excellent vision, you need to get them to believe it is the real thing.
But if nymphs fail you the first try, you can move on to streamers. Go for those that are colored white, tan, olive or black. During the rain, streamers with those cool camo-like olive patterns are fail-proof. Don’t forget to go big when a heavy storm or rainfall just passed for the best results.
2. Dry Lures
Not all dry lures are made equal. Trouts are picky, so you need to stick to the best kinds of dry lures that always work such as the foam flies, terrestrial flies, blue-winged olive, and sparkle dun.
3. Spinners
If you are a newbie in trout fishing, spinners will never fail you.
These are great when casting does not come too easy on you but at the same time, you want to max on your catch.
We suggested that you go take a look at blade patterns, specifically the center spin blade. You can have better success with this when fishing in the cold water. On the other hand, French blades are outstanding for deep fishing. If you are in moving waters, go for the willow leaf style one.
Additional Tips for Fishing in the Rain
Are you all set to start catching trout in the rain?
Before you head out, here are more tips that can increase your chances of a fantastic catch worth your time and energy.
Basically, rain is a good time to catch some trout. We have already established that truth earlier.
But we also mentioned the water temperature and its impact on trout behavior. This is why it is worth having a clear understanding of the desirable temps that will boost your chances of catching trout.
Brown trout is easy to catch when the water’s temperature ranges between 52 and 73 degrees. While rainbow trout are abundant between 50 and 65 degrees. When it gets cooler at 48 to 65 degrees, you should be able to spot brook trout. And Lake trout don’t come out to the surface unless the temperature dips to 42 to 55 degrees.
Another thing we would like to mention is your wading style. Wading upstream to grab your target by its tail is a smart thing to do when fishing in the rain. You need to make upstream casts in a position that is across the current to keep your lure down easily. As it tumbles along with the current, this presents itself as an exciting bite for a trout.
You should also be a bit zippier when you want to catch trout in the rain. There are a ton of activities going on in the water, so you need to pick up your troll lightly and be sure it does not move slowly. Otherwise, you will lose your target’s attention.
Be sure to apply these tips on your next trout fishing activity. You should be able to bring home a nice catch after knowing more about these techniques and tips that every avid trout anglers like you need to know!