What Weather Patterns to Watch For?

[dartsportsteve]

I'm still very new to this wonderful addiction called ice fishing. Just wondering, are there certain patterns you watch for in the winter with which you KNOW the bite will be hot? I've read about approaching low fronts being good and things but it is all awfully confusing to me.

Also, how does the moon phase/tidal phase affect fish this time of year?

Thanks in advance.

[DTro]

I believe a falling barometer plays a major role in fish feeding.

But for me, I'd rather be out there catching nothing then trying to predict a hot bite.

[hanson]

I wish I had the luxury to plan fishing trips in accordance with the weather but I don't. I fish when I can, and use the weather as a guide to help refine my technique on the ice.

I like approaching low fronts as well. Typical south wind in the winter, warmer air temps, dropping barometer. You'll find the fish are typically very eager to bite, and not bashful about it.

Its when the storm blows through when the bite becomes tough. Air temps drop, wind spins around to the NW, skies clear, and the barometer is on its way up. Usually the bite will be tougher under conditions like this. I adapt by downsizing and using more finesse presentations.

Don't let the weather deter you from fishing, just modify your approach a tad, and bundle up on those cold front days!

[dartsportsteve]

Thanks a lot. Don't get me wrong, if I have an opportunity to get out I don't let it stop me. Just trying to learn about how fish behave...

[Kyle Sandberg]

A cold front will put a real damper on fishing. Like previously noted, an apporahcing storm or falling barometer really gets the fish moving. The lull between stroms produces fish but not as good as before a storm. If you want to follow a plan, 2-3 days after a cold front comes through is when fishing should start picking up again.