When do you move to a new spot???

[Minnetonka]

I am curious about how others make a decision on when to move. Lets say you study the map, set up in a good looking spot, at the depth you think will work, and punch a dozen holes. you start fishing at 3 pm and give each hole a try with differnt lures. You mark a few fish and maybe get a bump but no fish. Do you give up on the spot at 4 and move just as it is getting dark? Or do you keep trying thinking that they will turn on as it gets dark. I always hate to make a move just as the sun sets. How do others make a decision on when to pull the plug on a spot and make a move?

[frabillfisher]

I would never leave just as the sun was setting, I always give the spot one night or a good couple of hours after dark because you never know when the bite is going to come on..I've caught most of my big walleyes at 11p.m. or later...just my 2 cents

[msm1018]

for me its instinct. know the lake your fishing and be realistic. if you know its a producer and you think your in the spot don't move, and if its not producing, move to another punched hole it shouldn't take long.

[Ed Carlson]

If you have sat on the spot with no sign of life for a while, it may be tough to remain confidant. Confidence plays a big part in fishing.

If it looks like the dead sea below I find it tough to think night time predators will have much reason to roam the area. I like to see forage in the area, the more the better. If there is food they will show up to feed.

I like to do sets deep and shallow on every spot I try. Then if I have set-up on a skunk I can move with little noise after dark. If long range moves are not time effective this still allows you flexibility on the spot on the spot. Subtle moves in or out may make all the difference after dark.

Don't underestimate the confidence issue. If you think it sucks, it will.

[SPUD BAR]

Not to change the subject....But Ed, thats the best avatar by far hands down!! I'm still laughing as i type this!!

[M.T. Bucket]

For me, the only time I'll move just before dark is if I start catching rock bass. It seems like if you get into those guys you can't get away. Plus, they'll continue to bite after dark.

[Deitz Dittrich]

For me, I probably would not have sat on the first spot as long. However, if you have sat on the first spot athat long and really feel the fish will be comming then I feel its best to sit it out and hope. Making a change at the High points of the day usually dont pay off because of wated time. one of my favorite sayings is.. "A DRY LURE DOES NOT CATCH FISH"

[LEECH21]

I agree with Ed, that confidence is the key. If you think you will catch fish, you usually do. If you think the spot won't be procuctive, it probably won't. If you decide to move as the sun is going down and try another spot, I'd believe that you'll feel better in the end even if you go home skunked. This is only because you tried two spots instead of just one.