Fishing Calendar – Is Today A Good Day To Fish?

The Farmers’ Almanac Fishing Calendar is based on the phase of the Moon, the zodiac sign the Moon is in, and previous experience. Local conditions, tides, and weather may affect your fishing success.

🎣 2026 Fishing Calendar

Fishing Calendar Key

Fishing Condition

This is the overall rating for the whole day, based upon our formula:

Best Time

This column lists the best time of the day when, according to our formula, fish will be biting: MORNING or EVENING.

What do our ratings mean?

POOR – Fish may not touch your line or steal your bait.
FAIR – You may catch one or two fishes, but you will have to work hard to do so.
GOOD – You should catch enough fish to feel satisfied!
BEST – You may catch something almost every time you cast your line in the water.

🌕 Why Moon Phases Affect Fishing

🎣 A Time-Tested Almanac Tradition

For centuries, anglers have relied on the Moon to help determine the best times to fish, and this belief remains central to the fishing calendar published by the Farmers’ Almanac. The Moon’s gravitational pull influences far more than ocean tides—it also affects inland lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, subtly shaping fish behavior. During new and full moons, gravitational forces are strongest, creating increased water movement and changes in light levels that trigger feeding activity. Baitfish become more active, and larger fish follow.

While weather, water temperature, and local conditions always play a role, aligning fishing trips with lunar phases improves the odds of success. 🌊 By following the Moon’s rhythm, anglers tap into a natural cycle that has guided successful fishing for generations—proof that sometimes the oldest wisdom still works best.

When Is the Best Time to Go Fishing?

Great fishing isn’t just about luck—it’s about timing. While the Moon plays a major role in fish behavior, several other natural factors can dramatically improve your odds. Use the tips below to help plan your next successful day on the water.

Best Times to Go Fishing: Proven Tips & Timing

🌙 Follow the Moon

Fish are more active during major and minor feeding periods, which are influenced by the Moon’s position overhead and underfoot. These lunar alignments often trigger instinctive feeding behavior, especially when paired with stable weather.

🌊 Watch the Tides

• Saltwater fishing: Plan to fish 1 hour before and 1 hour after high or low tide, when moving water stirs up bait and triggers feeding.
• Freshwater fishing: When the Moon is directly overhead or due south, fish activity often increases—these times tend to align with peak feeding periods.

🌅 Fish Sunrise and Sunset

The “morning rise” and “evening rise” are among the most productive fishing windows of the day. Low light conditions make fish feel safer, encouraging them to feed closer to the surface.

🌕 Moonrise and Moonset Matter

Just like sunrise and sunset, moonrise and moonset often coincide with increased fish activity. Keeping track of these daily lunar events can help you fine-tune your fishing schedule.

⛈️ Before (and After) a Storm

• Before a storm: Falling barometric pressure often sparks a short-lived feeding frenzy.
• After a storm: Fishing can be slow immediately afterward, but typically improves 1–2 days later as pressure stabilizes.

🪰 Match the Hatch

If insects like mayflies, caddisflies, or midges are hatching, fish will focus on them. Using bait or lures that closely resemble what’s naturally available can make all the difference.

🌬️ Pay Attention to the Wind

• West winds: Often bring warmer air and improved fishing conditions.
• North or east winds: Can signal colder, tougher fishing conditions.
  A light breeze is helpful—it breaks up surface light and masks movement.

🌊 Look for Calm or Lightly Rippled Water

Fish are most comfortable in calm or gently rippled waters. Extremely windy conditions can scatter fish and make presentations difficult.

Pro Tip: Combine the Signals

The best fishing days often occur when multiple factors align—a strong lunar phase, moving tides, stable weather, and low-light conditions. Use the Fishing Calendar to spot those days when nature is working in your favor.

Join the Discussion

What questions do you have about fishing?

Where are some of your favorite spots to fish?

Do you fish in saltwater or fresh water?

Have you ever used a fishing kayak before?

Let us know in the comments below!