Fishing across the wind on days when the weather is rough can lead to big fish. Do you know how to fish when the weather gets rough? Those are some of the best days to head out fishing, according to KVD.
Check out these fishing tips from Kevin VanDam. Enjoy this classic 2005 footage with KVD demonstration and bass fishing, from The Bass Pros series!
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For most people, a day with 25 mph winds, spitting rain, and heavy clouds might not seem like the ideal time to go fishing. But for me, these are the days when magic happens.
It’s not about comfort though bundling up in Gore-Tex helps but about seizing the opportunity to catch big fish.
Low light penetration, created by overcast skies and wind, puts the bass on the prowl, making them more aggressive. These challenging conditions can lead to some of the most rewarding fishing experiences.
Understanding the Role of Wind in Fishing
Wind is more than just a nuisance; it’s an ally. It creates currents, disrupts baitfish, and positions bass in predictable ways. When the wind is blowing hard, it’s important to think about how it affects the water and, in turn, your presentation.
Bass naturally face into the current created by the wind, making it critical to position your bait so it crosses their path. Instead of casting straight downwind, I prefer to throw across the wind’s angle.
This method ensures my lure moves directly in front of the bass, giving me the best chance of triggering a strike.
The Advantages of Low Light and Disoriented Baitfish
One of the biggest benefits of windy days is reduced light penetration. Bass become more effective predators in these conditions, and baitfish become disoriented.
This combination creates a prime opportunity to use baits that stay high in the water column, like spinnerbaits or swimbaits.
When light is low, bass are more likely to look up, making presentations in the upper water column highly effective. On days like this, swimbaits are my go-to because they mimic the movements of struggling baitfish, drawing strikes from even the biggest bass.
Fishing with the Wind: Keys to Success
While many anglers retreat to calm waters during windy conditions, I head straight into the wind. Wind concentrates plankton, which attracts baitfish and positions bass along edges, points, and wind-blown banks. This positioning makes them easier to target.
That said, safety is always the top priority. Having a powerful trolling motor is essential for maintaining control and keeping your bait in the strike zone.
With 109 lbs of thrust, my motor helps me navigate tough conditions while covering water efficiently.
Adapting Techniques to the Conditions
Windy days aren’t for finesse fishing. Slow techniques don’t work in these conditions. Instead, it’s all about power fishing—using spinnerbaits, swimbaits, and other fast-moving lures to cover water quickly.
These baits allow you to take advantage of the bass’s heightened aggression and ability to ambush prey.
How to read weather conditions
Fishing in extreme weather isn’t easy, but it’s gratifying. Heavy cloud cover and strong winds create conditions where big fish are most active. While it may not be everyone’s favorite time to fish, for me, it’s the ultimate challenge—and it’s worth every cast.
