What is the first thing you look at when planning a fishing trip? For many, it is as simple as “when is my next day off?” With today’s hectic schedules and multiple family commitments, any time you can get on the water is a good time to go fishing. However, for others, it comes down not only to when they can fish but also to when they are most successful. While everyone has their own criteria for judging fishing prospects, a long-held belief is to fish during the moon phase. But does it work? Let’s take a deeper dive into the moon phase, fish behavior and whether one really does impact the other.

The practice of fishing by the moon phases dates to when man first carried a rod aboard their dinghy or canoe and tried to provide for their family. Chances are it had less to do with whether the fish would be biting and more to do with taking advantage of the tides necessary to launch the boat or exit the harbor. Yet, the practice continues. Most major outdoor magazines still publish a moon chart so anglers can know precisely when each phase will start or stop.

The primary effects of the moon are related to gravity and light. Changes in gravity cause extremely high and low tides, which in turn increase baitfish activity. The increase in baitfish activity will, of course, cause an increase in feeding activity. However, the real impact is caused by the changes in light patterns.

During the new moon, the lack of light drastically slows nighttime activity. However, the overnight fasting results in an aggressive bite at first light. The perfect time to plan some early morning casting.

The quarter moon is generally viewed as less important due to its weaker gravitational pull, reduced light, and reduced change in tidal movement. However, weaker tides can lead to a concentration of fishing activity. This can provide a more consistent bite at your favorite spot throughout the tide cycle.

This brings us to the full moon. As you might expect, the full moon has the largest impact in terms of both light and tide. Extreme high and low tides and bright overnight conditions all drive fish crazy. Obviously, tidal changes can cause conditions to vary at your favorite spots, affecting water depth and speed. But the biggest difference will occur overnight. Due to the brighter nights, predator fish will be on the move, and hunting will be at its peak. This is when you want to plan your overnight trips for bass, trout, tarpon, or any of the top feeders.

The final piece of the moon puzzle is its position. The solunar theory suggests that fish are most active when the moon is rising or setting. Although this does not change the effects of the moon phase, it can help pinpoint what periods may be the best of the best.

How about freshwater fishing? Since the moon phase deals with tidal changes, how does this impact anglers far from the shore? Truth is, even if you remove the tide from the equation, the moon phase still plays an important role in planning your fishing trip. Even on your local stream or lake. The changes in light patterns remain, as do their impact on fish movement and feeding.

So next time you are planning a fishing trip, don’t just look at your days off, look at the moon as well.