Fishing Topwater in Rain – Pros, Cons, Best Baits, & Our Tips
Fishing topwater and that too in the rain can stir up quite the debate among anglers. Some believe it’s the secret to a successful day on the water, while others would rather stay dry and wait for clearer skies.
The discussion gets even more interesting when we focus on topwater fishing. This method, which involves luring fish to the surface, seems like it might be less effective when the rain is already creating ripples and disturbances.
However, for us a rainy day proved to be the perfect for topwater action. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of fishing topwater in the rain, sharing personal experiences and expert insights to help you decide if it’s worth braving the weather.
Fish Behavior in the Rain
Shore Patrol
When it rains, freshwater fish often head towards the shores, drawn by the influx of food that the runoff brings. Worms and insects washed into the water create a buffet that fish find hard to resist. For anglers, this is a golden opportunity.
The fish are more predictable in their movements, making the shores a prime spot to cast your line. It’s like nature’s version of ringing the dinner bell, and the fish come running or rather, swimming.
Less Light Penetration
Rainy weather means the skies are overcast, and less light penetrates the water. This creates a more favorable environment for using topwater lures. Fish are less likely to be scared away by shadows and can feel more secure striking at surface lures.
The dimmer light can make your lure more enticing, as it stands out more against the darker water. This advantage can make a big difference, turning a quiet day on the water into a successful fishing adventure.
Wind and Rain Combination
When you add wind to the rainy conditions, it’s like mixing up the perfect cocktail for topwater fishing. The combination of wind and rain breaks up the water’s surface, creating a choppy environment. This makes it harder for fish to distinguish between the raindrops and your lure.
As a result, fish are often more aggressive and likely to strike at your bait. It’s almost as if the chaotic surface convinces them to take the risk and go for the catch.
We’ve discussed the fish aggressive behavior in the rain in a separate article. Do give it a read!
Advantages of Fishing Topwater in the Rain
Increased Fish Activity
Fishing in the rain often means more active fish. When it rains, the barometric pressure drops, making fish like bass more aggressive. This is the perfect time to use topwater lures. Rain triggers a feeding frenzy as insects and other small creatures get washed into the water.
Fish are on the move, actively hunting for food, and this heightened activity means they are more likely to strike at your lure. Take advantage of this to land more catches.
Camouflage and Reduced Fish Spooking
Rainy weather gives anglers a natural camouflage. On clear days, fish can easily see you and get scared away. But when it rains, the overcast skies and raindrops hitting the water make it harder for fish to spot you.
This reduced visibility works to your advantage, allowing you to get closer to the fish without spooking them. This means a better chance of a successful catch. Not only does the rain mask your appearance, but it also disrupts the water surface, hiding any vibrations or sounds you might make.
This makes you even less detectable to fish. Whether you’re fishing from the shore or a boat, the rain provides an extra layer of disguise, giving you an edge in catching fish.
Surface Commotion
Topwater lures that create a lot of commotion, like buzzbaits, Whopper Ploppers, and prop baits, are even more effective in the rain. The raindrops create natural background noise, and these lures can stand out by making even more disturbance.
This added noise and movement attract fish that might not otherwise be interested. Think of it like ringing a dinner bell fish are drawn to the extra commotion and are more likely to strike. These lures mimic the splashing and struggling of prey, which is irresistible to predatory fish. In the rain, this effect is amplified.
The continuous splatter of raindrops adds to the overall disturbance, making your lure seem even more like a panicked, easy meal. Fish, already triggered by the rain and low pressure, are likely to attack with less hesitation. The more chaotic the surface, the harder it is for fish to differentiate between raindrops and your lure, making it prime time for topwater fishing.
Also, check: Best Time For Topwater Fishing – Our Proven Tips & Insights
Effective Topwater Lures for Rainy Conditions
Buzzbaits
Buzzbaits are a go-to choice for many anglers when fishing in the rain. They create a lot of noise and movement, which can catch the attention of bass even in heavy rain. Several seasoned anglers have shared their consistent success with buzzbaits during light to medium showers.
The commotion these lures create on the surface is hard for fish to ignore, making them a reliable option for rainy days.
Whopper Ploppers
Whopper Ploppers are another excellent choice for topwater fishing in the rain. Designed to create significant surface disturbance, these lures are highly effective in attracting fish, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Many anglers have praised Whopper Ploppers for their ability to draw strikes on rainy days. The unique design and action of these lures make them stand out in the choppy waters caused by rain.
Prop Baits and Wake Baits
Prop baits and wake baits are also highly recommended for rainy conditions. These lures generate a lot of commotion on the water’s surface, helping to draw fish out even when the rain is creating a lot of background noise.
Their ability to mimic the splashing and struggling of prey makes them particularly effective. Anglers often find success using these lures to entice fish that are already stirred up by the rain.
By using these topwater lures, you can maximize your chances of success when fishing in rainy conditions. The noise and movement they create are perfect for cutting through the natural disturbances of the rain, making your bait the most attractive option for hungry fish.
Check our recommendations on Best Topwater Lures for Bass Fishing – Top 5 Picks
Disadvantages of Fishing Topwater in the Rain
Getting Wet and Uncomfortable
One of the most obvious downsides to fishing in the rain is getting wet. Even with proper rain gear, fishing in wet conditions can be uncomfortable and tiring.
Extended exposure to rain can lead to hypothermia, especially in cooler weather, making it crucial to stay as dry and warm as possible. The discomfort of being soaked can also take the fun out of the fishing experience, reducing your overall enjoyment and stamina.
Slippery Conditions
Rain creates slippery conditions on boats, docks, and shorelines, increasing the risk of accidents. Slippery surfaces can lead to falls and injuries, so it’s essential to be cautious and wear appropriate footwear with good grip.
Whether you’re navigating a wet dock or moving around a rain-slick boat deck, being mindful of your footing can help prevent mishaps that could end your fishing trip early.
Visibility Challenges
Heavy rain can reduce visibility, making it harder to see your lure and monitor fish activity. This can be particularly challenging for topwater fishing, where visual cues are important for detecting strikes and setting the hook effectively.
Reduced visibility not only makes it harder to fish but can also make it more difficult to spot hazards in the water or navigate back to shore safely.
Changes in Water Conditions
Rain can cause sudden changes in water conditions, such as increased runoff, which can alter water clarity and temperature. These changes can affect fish behavior, making it more difficult to predict where the fish will be and what they will be biting.
Murky water can hide your lure from fish, and cooler runoff can push fish deeper or into different areas, complicating your fishing strategy.
Safety Concerns
Fishing in the rain, especially during thunderstorms, poses serious safety risks. Lightning is a major hazard, and it’s important to avoid fishing during electrical storms. Additionally, high winds and rough waters can make boating dangerous.
Always prioritize safety and check weather conditions before heading out. If you see or hear a storm approaching, it’s best to head for shore and wait it out. Safety should always come first, no matter how tempting the fishing conditions might be.
Additional Tips for Rainy Day Fishing (Specially Topwater Fishing)
Runoff Areas
Targeting runoff areas can be particularly fruitful. These spots are where rainwater drains into the lake or river, bringing with it a lot of food and oxygen. Fish congregate in these areas to take advantage of the increased food supply.
Identifying and fishing these areas can significantly increase your chances of success. Look for places where streams or ditches flow into larger bodies of water. These areas often become hot spots for feeding fish during and after a rain shower.
Adjust Your Lure Presentation
In rainy conditions, it’s essential to adjust your lure presentation. Speeding up your retrieve can be effective since fish are more active and aggressive. Using fast-action lures like buzzbaits, spinnerbaits, and chatter baits allows you to cover more water quickly and capitalize on the heightened fish activity.
The increased movement and noise from these lures can trigger strikes from fish that are already stirred up by the rain. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different speeds and actions to see what works best on any given rainy day.
Safety Considerations
While fishing in the rain can be highly productive, safety should always be a priority. Avoid fishing during thunderstorms or heavy downpours where lightning is present. Ensure you have appropriate rain gear to stay dry and comfortable, reducing the risk of hypothermia or other weather-related issues.
Wear a life jacket if you’re fishing from a boat, and make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, it’s always better to be safe and head back to shore.
Also, you should check this if you’re planning your fishing trip in the rain:
What to Bring Fishing in the Rain? – 11 Must-Have Things
Best Rain Gear For Fishing – Top 5 Tested
FAQs
Is Fishing Better in the Rain?
Fishing can be better in the rain due to increased fish activity and reduced visibility for fish, making them less wary. The rain can stir up the water and bring in a lot of food, leading to a feeding frenzy.
However, it’s important to understand that success can vary based on numerous factors, including the type of fish, water conditions, and weather patterns. While some anglers swear by rainy day fishing, others find it hit or miss.
Do Fish Know When It’s Raining?
Fish are highly attuned to changes in their environment, including weather changes. The rain can influence their behavior, often making them more active and willing to bite. This responsiveness to weather changes is one reason why fishing in the rain can be productive.
Fish sense changes in barometric pressure and the increased availability of food, which can make them more aggressive and ready to strike.