Definition [Archive] - Fly Fishing Forum

: Definition

02-13-2007, 06:03 PM
Pardon a foolish-sounding question, but what is the definition of "warm water," as in "warm water fishing"? I live on the west coast and am not familiar with the reference. Thanks, Evans...

02-13-2007, 08:26 PM
The term is generaly used in reference to non-salmonid species (trout, salmon etc.)which tend to favor 'colder water'.

'Warm water' species - smallmouth bass, carp, pike et al become very active at water temperatures that trout would find uncomfortable to feed in. Here in the North East there is a period in the late spring when water temperatures rise through the 50s and 60s where both smallmouth bass and trout will be active side by side.

As the summer progresses and temps rise into the 70s and low 80s, smallies become very aggressive but the trout become lethargic and seek refuge in colder areas - typically where spring waters emerge into deep running pools.