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Littoral Zone #13 | The Effects of Environmental Cycles on Fish Behavior with Jason Randal and Phil Rowley
Season 10 Episode 691
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/691
Presented by: Jackson Hole Fly Company, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Pescador on the Fly
Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors
In this episode, Phil is joined by Jason Randall, a renowned author and fly fishing expert, to explore the fascinating effects of environmental cycles on fish behavior.
Have you ever wondered how changing weather conditions or the lunar cycle impact trout behavior and feeding patterns? This episode promises to unravel these mysteries, offering vital insights that could transform your on-the-water success. With Jason's extensive research and Phil's practical experience, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to adapt their fishing strategies in response to environmental changes.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, this discussion is packed with valuable information and tips. Dive in to learn how to adjust your fly presentations and enhance your fishing experience, no matter what nature throws your way.
Episode Chapters with Jason Randall and Phil Rowley on Fish Behavior
10:30 - Phil and Jason discuss the impact of weather changes, specifically barometric pressure, on trout behavior in Stillwater environments. Phil notes how changes in pressure, temperature, and light seem to influence trout, comparing it to the effect of shaking a snow globe. Jason argues that trout are not significantly affected by barometric pressure changes as humans are.
17:29 - Phil and Jason discuss the behavior of lake trout and other fish when brought up from deep waters. They explain how fish like trout have an air sac used for buoyancy control, similar to a scuba vest, allowing them to maintain neutral buoyancy. This differs from pressure-sensitive eardrums in humans. Some fish, like rockfish, suffer from barotrauma when rapidly brought to the surface, leading to their air sac protruding from their mouth. Phil mentions technology that helps fish equalize pressure when released back into the water.
25:38 - Jason discusses how weather changes, particularly impending weather fronts, can be perceived through various natural cues beyond just barometric pressure. He describes how high-level clouds like cirrus clouds can indicate approaching weather changes, and changes in wind direction often mark the passage of a front. He notes that while temperature changes occur with cold fronts, the solar energy has a more significant impact on water temperatures.
28:59 - Jason highlights the role of electrical activity, such as static electricity, observed during severe weather, and theorizes about the effects of ionization on mood and behavior. He explains that negative ions generally improve mood, while positive ions, often from pollutants, can lead to depression. He further speculates on the interaction between ionization and bioelectric fields in organisms, suggesting that fish might use these cues as an early warning system for weather changes. J
33:53 - Phil and Jason explore the idea that certain fishing techniques, such as wrapping wire around hooks, might create bioelectric fields that affect fish behavior. Jason references research indicating that dissimilar metals on lures, like lead or tungsten, can generate a bioelectric field that potentially repels fish.
37:02 - They discuss strategies for fishing when trout behavior changes due to weather conditions. Phil explains that during such times, trout often retreat to deeper areas and become less active, making it more challenging to catch them. He suggests slowing down tactics, using indicators, and triggering bites rather than relying solely on feeding responses.
Published on 1 year ago