Fish-Hawk.Net

Sure, I'm still catching fish, but I've noticed right from the begining of trout season, it's been a tougher bite than usual, and it's carried on throughout the season so far.
Anecdotal ramp-side shop talk reveals the same for others...
What's going on? The late spring? Weird weather?
Even more weird, last year laker jigging was on fire, and I couldn't get a whiff on the downrigger.
This year jigging isn't doing it, and am having more luck on the downrigger. I'm trying to figure that one out.

I'd say its more hit an miss this year. I've had a few days where I had to leave the rod out of the water for a break so I could eat lunch
...but there have been some real stinkers too. Same place, similar conditions, just seems like more variation than in past years.

So it may depend on the day you choose to go out.

I've noticed a real downturn in my results on the Mississippi River this season. Last year I couldn't keep the bass and pike off my line, all season long. This year it's been spotty so far. Hoping it improves as we progress into late summer then fall.

Last years was a good year with a lot bass caught. What I am noticing is the bass are still biting but it doesn't seem to be as fast or furious as last year. You have to work a lot harder to find what they want and even when you do, the sizes are way smaller than average.

Adam

I dunno

Had 2 PBs this year so far.

Mind, I've only been out 8 times.

I have had some stellar trips this year and one tough one. The weather has definitely pushed fish behaviour back a month if not more. Try some areas that typically you would reserve for earlier in the season...or shallower than normal in lakes. I find rivers to be more predictable and status quo. So far so good for me though.

I had a really tough spring...

Lately though, the brookies are on fire.

Head up to your backwoods brookie lakes and you should smoke 'em!!!

The season opener was crap! Way too cold. Found a few with mudpuppies in them.... definitley still on the winter pattern at that time. Water in the high 30's.... The ice was off the lake a day or 2 before we showed up.
I wish I could do the brookie trip a few times a year like I used to... just can't get the time anymore.

I hear ya man times seem to be tough

No different than any other year...

I have not been skunked once this year.... The bass and pike are coming in the boat at a steady rate!! Even the walleye have been good to me this year thanks to yannick from orgf

I always find it tough. Even on a good day.
If I get a 3lbs bass, I'm looking for a 4lbs and if I get a four, I'm looking for a five and if I get a five I want a six and ..........

Only been out 4 times but for me the bass bite is off. Cought some but really had to work at it and nothing of any great size for both smallies and largies.