Fall fishing in the U.S. is a season full of excitement and unique challenges. As the temperatures drop, fish become more active, preparing for the winter months by feeding aggressively. This makes fall one of the best times to hit the water. 

Among the many techniques available to anglers, drifting with live bait and trolling with drone spoons stand out as two of the most effective and exhilarating methods. 

Drifting with Live Bait:

How to Drift with Live bait – Fishing Tip

Drifting with live bait is a time-tested method that becomes especially effective during the fall. The key to success lies in understanding the behavior of fish during this season. As the water cools, many species move to deeper waters during the day but will come closer to the surface to feed during the morning and evening hours. Live bait, with its natural movement, becomes irresistible to hungry fish.

• Popular Live Bait Choices: Different species prefer different types of live bait. For instance, minnows are a go-to choice when targeting trout, while shrimp are highly effective for redfish. Other popular options include shad, mullet, and herring, depending on the region and target species.
• Rigging Tips: Properly rigging your live bait is crucial for presenting it in a natural and appealing manner. For minnows, hooking them through the lips or behind the dorsal fin allows them to swim naturally. When using shrimp, many anglers prefer to hook them through the tail to keep them lively for longer periods. Adjust your rig based on the current and depth to ensure that the bait moves naturally with the drift.
• Drifting Spots and Techniques: In the fall, focus on areas where fish are likely to be feeding, such as drop-offs, submerged structures, and areas with plenty of cover. Pay attention to the wind and current, as these will dictate the direction and speed of your drift. Vary your depth and speed until you find what works best for the day.

Trolling is another effective fall fishing technique, especially when using drone spoons. These lures mimic the movement and flash of small baitfish, making them irresistible to predatory species.

• Benefits of Drone Spoons: Drone spoons are particularly effective in the fall because they can cover a lot of water and are designed to mimic the baitfish that are prevalent during this season. Their unique design allows them to move erratically through the water, attracting the attention of fish from a distance.
• Trolling Techniques: The key to successful trolling with drone spoons is to maintain the right speed and depth. In cooler water, fish often hold deeper, so using downriggers or weighted lines to get your spoons to the right depth is essential. Adjust your trolling speed to ensure the spoon has the right wobble, typically between 2 to 3 knots.
• Effective Colors and Sizes: Fall fishing calls for specific colors and sizes that mimic the natural prey in your area. Silver and gold are classic choices, but don’t hesitate to experiment with blues and greens, especially in clear water. Size matters too; smaller spoons work well for species like trout, while larger spoons can attract bigger predators like striped bass or walleye.
• Trolling Spots and Strategies: Look for areas with varying depths, such as channels, ledges, and the edges of weed beds. These are prime spots where predatory fish lie in wait for passing baitfish. Make multiple passes over these areas, varying your depth and speed to find what works.

Combining Drifting and Trolling for Maximum Success:

For anglers looking to maximize their catch, combining drifting and trolling can be a game-changer. By switching between the two techniques based on the conditions and target species, you can cover more water and increase your chances of success.

• Choosing the Right Technique: Start your day by drifting with live bait in the early morning when fish are feeding near the surface. As the day progresses and fish move deeper, switch to trolling with drone spoons to cover more water and target fish at different depths. The key is to remain flexible and adjust your approach based on what the fish are doing.
• Success Stories: Many anglers have found great success by combining these techniques. For instance, one story tells of a group that started their day drifting with minnows in a shallow bay, catching a few nice trout. As the sun rose, they switched to trolling with drone spoons along a nearby channel and ended the day with a cooler full of striped bass.

Fall Fishing Tips and Safety:

Fall fishing can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires some adjustments to your gear and approach.

• Adjusting for Cooler Water: As water temperatures drop, fish metabolism slows, so slower presentations often work better. Make sure your gear is up to the task, as cooler water can make fish more aggressive when they strike.
• Safety Precautions: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out. Wear layers to stay warm, and make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Fall also means shorter days, so plan your trips accordingly to avoid being caught on the water after dark.
• Recreational Regulations: Before heading out, make sure you’re familiar with the fall fishing regulations in your area. Each state has different rules regarding species limits, sizes, and open seasons. Licensing requirements also vary, so double-check that your fishing license is current and valid for the waters you plan to fish.

Make sure to download the FishVerify app to stay up-to-date on local regulations and ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly.

Happy angling!