iMoon Calendar

Theories abound about the moon's affect on fish and many anglers acknowledge it does influence their catch. So which moon phase is better for fishing?

Evidence suggests the new and full moons. It's believed that fish hunt more actively around the bigger tides of these moon phases - a theory that matches the popular fishing saying, 'no run, no fun'.

Fish will still bite throughout most phases of the lunar cycle but smart fishing is about maximising your potential for success. It's easier to catch fish at certain times of the lunar cycle, so by keeping an eye on the moon phase you'll know when it's time to fish hard during the better conditions. Then, you can use the less favourable times of the month to explore the features of new areas and identify possible hot spots to try when the fish are biting.

The backlighting of a full moon rising in a clear night sky after sunset is a great time to cast poppers or shallow diving minnows. The silhouette of a slow-moving lure is an irresistible target for hungry nocturnal predators. A nervous live bait suspended just below the surface under a float will also take advantage of such lighting conditions. Shadow makes them easy targets for fish watching and hunting from below.

The new moon can also fish well at night due to an increase in baitfish movement, especially in estuaries, when prawns make a run for it under cover of darkness. Prey at the bottom of the food chain prefer to be as invisible as possible when they make their move - but predators are wise to this and are ready for the new-moon ambush. Smart anglers are just as ready for the opportunity.