FISHING is one of the most enjoyable outdoor activities for many people, but it can also be challenging and unpredictable. Factors such as weather, water conditions, and fishing pressure can all play a role in determining the success of a fishing trip. To consistently catch fish, it is important to be able to adapt to these different conditions and use the right techniques and strategies. In this column, we will explore some tips and rigs for fishing in difficult conditions.
FISHING IN MURKY OR MUDDY WATER
Discoloured and murky water can be a daunting prospect for many anglers. The low visibility of the water makes it difficult for fish to see your bait or lure, making it tough to elicit a strike. Using brightly coloured lures that can be readily seen in murky water is a proven method used by anglers in the tidal muddy waters of the Northern Territory. Bright greens, oranges, and yellows tend to stand out are all good options.
Noisy lures with rattles or accentuated vibration are more readily sensed by the lateral line of a predator so it stands to reason that these lures will offer an edge in waters with low visibility. Another tactic is to add scent to your baits and lures to make it more appealing to fish, allowing fish to locate your offering even if they can’t see it. The reduced visibility also adds an element of risk for prey swimming around the murky waters and as a result, fish will often congregate around structure for shelter making these locations prime areas to target.
EXTREME TEMPERATURES
During very hot or very cold weather, fish may become lethargic and less likely to feed. To counter this, you can use lighter lines and smaller lures or baits. Fish that are less active are more likely to go after smaller prey. On the hottest of days, cooler water can be more comfortable for fish with deeper waters will usually offer more moderate temperatures and increased levels of activity. Conversely, the shallow fringes, especially areas where there are large boulders or rocks that can absorb then radiate the sun’s rays, are usually warmer than the deeper periphery and dynamite
on those sunny yet frosty winter days. Time of day is another factor during extreme weather events with early morning and late evening being cooler and ideal during hot weather, while midday may be better during cold weather.

FISHING IN HIGH WINDS
Wind can make casting and retrieving difficult but also creates choppy water that can attract fish. Heavier lures or weights come to the fore in these scenarios as they that cut through the wind with lighter affected by the wind and difficult to cast accurately. Casting parallel to the shore or at an angle to the wind can also help cover more water and increase your chances of getting a bite when the breeze is head on. Another strategy is to use a float and use the wind to pick up the belly of your line and flat to drift your bait or lure along a shoreline or drop-off. A wind effected shoreline will have waves lapping it creating a feeding lane for predators looking to pick off and dislodged crustaceans so it pays to fish close to shore. If you find the wind behind you, altering the trajectory of your cast more vertically will help the wind pick up your bait or lure resulting in longer casts and more water covered.
STRONG CURRENT
Heavy currents can be quite challenging and it stands to reason that heavier weights or sinkers will help keep your offering in the strike zone. Any form of structure that offers respite for fish is a key location to explore including eddies, behind rocks, bridge pylons or the deep side or a ledge or drop off where the current is not as strong. Using thinner main lines will result in less water resistance, allowing your rig to sink more readily through the current and offering better control. Shortening leader length can also be beneficial in heavy currents to avoid tangles and maintain control over your presentation.
HEAVILY PRESSURED AREAS
Popular fishing spots or areas with high boat traffic, can result in fish becoming more cautious and feeding timidly. In these conditions it pays to try lures or baits that are different from what other anglers may be using use something the fish may not have seen before. Another strategy is to use smaller lures or baits that may be less
intimidating to fish. You should also employ finesse and stealth when in heavily pressured waters; use lighter main line and leader to enhance the presentation of your bait and longer leaders to allow baits and lures to appear more natural if the current isn’t too strong. It’s also a good idea to fish during early hours of the morning or later into the evening when there are fewer people on the water.

WEEDY OR SNAGGY BOTTOMS
Weedy or snaggy areas can be frustrating however these locations will often have predators lurking nearby. An obvious rig is to fish a weedless presentation using lures have a
protective shield or bristles covering the hook point or alternatively have the hook that is hidden within the lure. Another strategy is to fish with a high rod tip to keep your bait or lure above the weeds on the bottom. If you do get snagged, try to gently shake your line to loosen it from the snag. Avoid pulling too hard or jerking your rod, which can drive the hook further into a water logged branch. If it doesn’t come free you can flick the line by hold onto the rod with one hand and the line with the other. You then give the taut line a quick flick by pulling it back and releasing it in one swift motion. The force of the flick should be enough to dislodge the lure from the snag.
Fishing in difficult conditions can be a challenge, but with these techniques and strategies, anglers can improve their chances of success. By understanding how to adapt to different conditions and using the right lures, baits, and techniques, anglers can catch more fish even in the toughest of conditions. Remember to keep experimenting and always stay safe and enjoy the experience, even if the fish aren’t biting!