Solunar Theory (When to Fish)

SOLUNAR THEORY & SURF FISHING

Solunar Theory holds that animal activity is influenced by the movement of the Sun and Moon. For salt water fishing, tides in particular have long been known as a factor that controls fishes' behavior. John Aldeen Knight, influenced by fishing traditions and anecdotes, tried to determine the best times for fishing through quantifiable research. He measured thirty-three different factors. As his research progressed, he rejected all factors except for three. He concluded that the movement (and relative position) of the Sun and the Moon; as well as the tides could be used to determine the best times to fish. His data pointed to particular influence when the moon is directly overhead or directly underfoot. Through his research, he established that there were major periods and minor periods of fish activity. Moon overhead and moon underfoot being the major periods. The minor periods being moonrise and moonset. Many fishermen and hunters believe in the accuracy of Mr. Knight's Solunar Tables. Test the theory for yourself.

When to Fish

1) Sunrise and Sunset. Many Surf Fishermen never miss the opportunity to cast for fish at sunrise or sunset. I, for one, always try to target bluefish at this time. In general, I try to have a lure or bait in the water by first light (one hour before sunrise) and again an hour before sunset continuing my efforts through sunset and the ever darkening dusk.

2) Ninety minutes before and after high tide. During this time I try to target the larger of the surf species. During low tide I will scout out the various holes, cuts and troughs along the stretch of beach I plan to fish. As the tide moves in, I cast my bait to spots I've chosen to target and wait for the bite.

3) Ninety minutes before and after low tide. While ebb tide is a great time to scout the surf, as the tide is moving towards low and as it begins its move towards high,the churning surf will stir the bait favored by the smaller surf species. At this time, I like to focus my efforts just before the first break or even in the suds. Here is a great time to focus less on sport and more on the business of putting that night's dinner in your cooler.

4) Moonrise and moonset. We as humans seem driven by a sun influenced cloak. We are more active during the hours of daylight and scale back at our activities during the hours of darkness. Fish that inhabit the surf seem more influenced by the Tidal Day (24 hour 53 minutes days). Pay attention to moonrise and moonset on the tide tables. If you can, get your bait in the water an hour or so before and after these two lunar events. In Mr. Knight's theory, these are times of fish activity.

5) Moon Overhead and Moon Underfoot. Halfway between moonrise and moonset is postulated as an active period. The same is considered true for the time of moonset and moonrise. 

6) One day before, during and after a New Moon. This is a time considered by many as a time the moon has maximum influence on fish feeding activities.

7) Anytime. Let's face it, if you don't have your bait or lure in the water, you won't be catching fish.

Tight Lines and Fresh Bait,

R. M. Callaway