A
CLEAR UNDERSTANDING
By Wally Kulikowski
The subject of 'Water Color' is given considerable
mention in the 'Home Study Course.' Buck Perry cites fishing
experiences and displays diagrams to illustrate how ' clarity in
water' tends to restrain the migratory movements of fish. To be
more specific: the elements of time duration and distance of
migration are most notably affected! It is because of these
factors that the success ratio of fishermen is also directly
linked to this equation of 'water color.' This does not imply that
clear or clearer waters are not worthy of fishing pressure from
spoonpluggers, however it does suggest he pause and give serious
consideration to the 'color spectrum' in waters he chooses to
fish. Adopting such an approach encourages development of a
discerning eye for favorable water color and raises the
concienceness of the fishermen to recognize the need for necessary
adjustments in lure presentation when such darker water conditions
cannot be found.
To paraphrase Buck Perry, he stated "As we gain experience at
'Spoonplugging' good water color will become a top priority when
considering a lake's fishing potential."
I think it appropriate to cite a past fishing experience
directly related to this subject. It simply adds dimension to the
wisdom and validity of Buck's quote.
In years past family and friends would organize an annual
fishing trip up to Northern Wisconsin. Some of those who attended
this weeklong event were serious fishermen, while others came
mainly to bask in an environment of serenity. (They also
occasionally wet a line from the pier on fair weather
afternoons.)
Our prospective fishing water had a reputation for having a
good population of northern pike, largemouth bass, and panfish.
While supporting a weedline down to 10ft., this lake was also
noted for developing a significant algae bloom during the summer
months. The previous year my partner and I discovered a section of
shoreline where we experienced success with northern pike. The
watercolor in this particular section was a darker yellow green at
that time, and contained breaks and breaklines occurring at 11 to
12ft. It also contained deep water of approximately 20 to 25ft. in
the vicinity.
Since we were still 'green horns,' we anxiously left the dock
making scant observations as to weather and water conditions
existing at the time. In retrospect, I would have to assess
weather conditions as 'marginal to decent' under partly cloudy
skies with considerable warming in the afternoon. While wind
conditions were not overbearing, we did encounter a steady
head-breeze as we headed straightway across the lake to our
designated fishing waters. Having high expectations we immediately
commenced our lure presentation both casting and trolling. During
the course of a few hours fishing we worked the area several times
with only a couple of 'stinkers' to show for our efforts. At this
point I guess you could say our expectations began to diminish
somewhat, and it was shortly after that realization that another
boat from our party approached us and asked : "How's fishing?"
After hearing our dismal report, there was an expression of
surprise on his face. (Since I was considered one of the serious
fishermen in the group.) He then went on to say" they were having
good success and experienced a flurry of northern pike activity
fishing off the pier, and in the nearby vicinity of our cabins."
We were admittedly perplexed about our failure and their
proclaimed success. This prompted us to head back to our lodging
quarters and see what was going on. As we came within a quarter
mile or less of our boat dock, I began to notice a film of algae
appearing on the surface of the water. As we came closer to the
shoreline, it became obvious the water clarity had degraded to
what I could best describe as 'pea soup.' It was like being struck
with a lightening bolt! I suddenly realized the combination of
warm afternoon temperatures and a favorable wind direction were
major factors that provided a heavy algae bloom on this side of
the lake, and it was this favorable water color that initiated the
movement of fish in this area.
Though that fishing trip was a disappointment in many
respects, it supplied me with a invaluable lesson on a very
important aspect of fishing. It taught me the importance of water
color, and the necessity for vigilance in our above the water
interpretation.
On a return trip this same lake a few years later, my wife and
I experienced a successful outing by taking advantage of darker
water color animated by the same natural elements as previously
mentioned. I finally started to gain a "clear understanding" about
good water color.
RETURN TO
HOME PAGE