Is 85 degrees too hot to go fishing?

Is 85 Degrees Too Hot to Go Fishing?

Key Takeaways

• High water temperatures can lead to decreased dissolved oxygen levels, making fish more vulnerable to disease and parasite infections.
• Some fish may become less active and feed less frequently in high water temperatures, making them more challenging to catch.
• Different fish species have different temperature preferences, and some fish, like trout and salmon, prefer cooler waters.

When it comes to fishing, one of the key factors that can greatly impact success is water temperature. Different fish species have different temperature preferences, and understanding these preferences can help anglers determine the best time to cast their lines. But what about when the temperature rises to 85 degrees? Is it too hot to go fishing?

The short answer is that it depends on the species you are targeting and the specific fishing conditions. While some fish can tolerate higher temperatures, others may become stressed or less active, making it more difficult to catch them. Let’s take a closer look at how high water temperatures can affect fishing and why 85 degrees may not be the ideal temperature for all fish species.

The Effects of High Water Temperatures on Fish

When water temperatures rise, fish behavior and physiology can be significantly impacted. Here are some key effects of high water temperatures on fish:

1. Decreased Dissolved Oxygen Levels: High water temperatures can lead to decreased dissolved oxygen levels in the water, particularly in shallow areas and during hot weather. This reduction in oxygen can make fish more vulnerable to disease and parasite infections.
2. Fish Seeking Cooler Water: Fish have the ability to seek out cooler, better-oxygenated water during hot temperatures. They may move to deeper areas, seek shade, or congregate around structures that provide relief from the heat.
3. Changes in Feeding Behavior: Some fish may become less active and feed less frequently in high water temperatures. This can make them more challenging to catch, as they may not be as interested in biting bait or lures.
4. Species-Specific Responses: Different fish species have different temperature preferences. While some species, like carp and eels, may be better adapted to higher temperatures, others, such as trout and salmon, prefer cooler waters and may be more negatively affected.
5. Increased Vulnerability to Stress: Fish that are caught and released during hot temperatures may be more vulnerable to stress and damage during the fight. Larger fish that take a long time to land can be particularly affected. It’s important for anglers to handle fish with wet hands and return them quickly to the water to aid their recovery.

Understanding Fish Temperature Preferences

Knowing the preferred temperature ranges of different fish species can help anglers determine whether 85 degrees is too hot to go fishing. Here are the temperature ranges for some popular game fish:

• Trout: The sweet spot for trout fishing is between 50°F and 65°F.
• Bass: Bass fishing is best in water temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
• Salmon: The optimal temperature range for salmon fishing is between 50°F and 60°F.
• Crappie: Crappie fishing is most successful in water temperatures between 55°F and 65°F.
• Catfish: Catfish prefer water temperatures between 70°F and 85°F.
• Walleye: The ideal temperature range for walleye fishing is between 55°F and 70°F.
• Panfish: Panfish, such as bluegill, crappie, perch, and sunfish, thrive in water temperatures between 65°F and 75°F.

Based on these temperature ranges, it’s clear that 85 degrees is at the upper limit for some fish species. Trout, for example, prefer water temperatures below 65 degrees, while salmon are most active in waters around 50 to 60 degrees. If you are specifically targeting these species, it may be best to avoid fishing when the temperature exceeds their preferred ranges.

Considering Other Factors

While water temperature is an important consideration, it’s not the only factor that affects fish behavior and fishing success. Other factors, such as water clarity, time of day, weather conditions, and availability of food, can also impact fish activity. For example, if the water is clear and there is ample food available, fish may still be active and feeding even in higher temperatures.

Additionally, fishing during early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler can increase your chances of success. These times of the day are often referred to as the “golden hours” for fishing, as fish are typically more active during these periods.

Conclusion

So, is 85 degrees too hot to go fishing? While it may not be the ideal temperature for all fish species, it doesn’t mean that fishing is impossible. Some fish, like catfish, can tolerate higher temperatures, while others may become less active or seek out cooler waters.

Ultimately, the decision to go fishing in 85-degree weather depends on your target species, local conditions, and personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to check local fishing reports, talk to experienced anglers in your area, and consider the specific factors that can influence fish behavior.

Remember to prioritize the well-being of the fish by practicing catch-and-release, handling them properly, and following any local regulations or guidelines. By being mindful of water temperatures and understanding how they can affect fishing, you can make informed decisions and increase your chances of a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.

Related Websites:

• Water Temperature Chart for Fishing
• Bob Stearns’ Ultimate Guide: Fish Temperature Preferences
• How Do Water Temperatures Effect Fish and Fishing?