How long should I stay at a fishing spot if I know there are fish but they're not biting?

When you've got a hot tip or your fishy senses are tingling, yet those scales aren't turning into bites, it can be quite the conundrum. The decision of how long to stay at a spot when you know fish are present but not biting is a classic puzzle for anglers. So, let's unravel it.

First off, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, but a good rule of thumb is to give it 30 to 60 minutes. During this time, make sure you're changing up your tactics. Fish can be finicky creatures, and sometimes all they need is a little nudge (or different bait) to get their appetites going.

Change Your Approach

Try switching your lures or bait. If you've been using artificials, maybe it's time to go live, or vice versa. Varying your retrieval speed or method can also entice a bite. A slow, steady retrieve might be the key, or perhaps a more erratic motion will catch their eye.

Consider the Environment

Take a look around. Has the weather changed? Is the water clearer than usual? Sometimes it's not just the bait, but the conditions that require an adjustment. If you see a slight breeze pick up or the sun dips behind a cloud, it might trigger a feeding frenzy.

Check the Calendar, and the Clock

Fish have their habits, just like us. They might be more active at different times of the day or under certain moon phases. A quick check of a fishing calendar might reveal that the peak time is just around the corner. Here's a video that explains how the moon and tides can influence fish activity.

Final Tips

If after an hour you're still not getting results, it might be time to move on. But don't abandon the spot entirely. Mark it down, keep an eye on the conditions, and perhaps revisit later in the day or season.

Finally, remember that fishing is as much about patience and persistence as it is about technique. So take a deep breath, enjoy the surroundings, and trust your instincts. Happy fishing out there, and may your next cast be your best one yet!

For more tips, check out this video on detecting more bites.