Choosing the right lure color can be such a tricky proposition. Color might not be the #1 factor in determining whether or not you’re going to catch fish, but it certainly can make a difference in some situations. Here’s how top walleye guide Charlie Nelson (Nelson’s Guide & Charter Service) narrows down his color choice throughout the day.
Do colors matter when it comes to fishing? I believe they do. Sure, there are days when whatever you put down they’re going to hit, but on the days that you need to pick something that’s going to trigger those fish, I think color matters.
When I start to figure out what colors I’m going to use, I pay attention to what hook I’m hooking up fish on. For example, if I’m using a crawler harness and I start catching fish that are coming up behind and grabbing the trail hook, the color that I’m going to key on is probably the bead color and the back of the blade. That’s because as those fish come up, that’s what they’re seeing.
On the other hand, if they’re smashing the front hook and they’re coming in and actually grabbing that front, they’re probably keying in on the front color and maybe the beads. So, I will start to pick whatever color that front blade is looking at.
How to Choose the Right Color Rig:
So, here’s the trick:
- Decide or pick what hook they’re hooking up on.
- Grab your colors.
When it comes to fishing, one question that often comes up is whether or not colors matter. As an experienced angler, I can confidently say that colors do matter, especially on days when the fish are being picky. In this article, I will share a simple trick that I use to choose the right color rig based on the behavior of the fish. So, if you’re wondering how to increase your chances of catching more fish, keep reading!
Paying Attention to the Hooks
One subtle but effective way to determine the right color rig is by paying attention to the hooks. Specifically, I focus on which hook the fish are hooking up on. Let me explain further.
For example, if I’m using a crawler harness and I notice that the fish are coming up behind and grabbing the trail hook, I know that the color of the bead and the back of the blade are what they’re seeing. In this case, I will key in on those colors when choosing my rig. On the other hand, if the fish are smashing the front hook and grabbing it, I know that they’re likely keying in on the front color and maybe the beads. So, I will pick a rig that matches the color of the front blade.
By observing which hook the fish are targeting, I can make an informed decision about the color of my rig. This simple trick has helped me catch more fish on days when they’re being selective.
Choosing the Right Color
Now that you know how to determine which hook the fish are hooking up on, let’s talk about choosing the right color for your rig. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Be observant: Pay close attention to the behavior of the fish. Look for patterns and try to identify which colors they’re responding to.
- Match the hatch: Consider the natural colors of the baitfish or prey that the fish are feeding on. Matching the color of your rig to their natural food source can be highly effective.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different colors and see what works best. Sometimes, fish can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be open to experimenting with different color combinations.
- Confidence is key: Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing the right color is your confidence in it. If you have a color that you’ve had success with in the past, stick with it. Confidence can make a big difference in your fishing success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, colors do matter when it comes to fishing. By paying attention to which hook the fish are hooking up on, you can determine the right color rig to use. Remember to be observant, match the hatch, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors. And most importantly, have confidence in your choice of color. So, the next time you’re out on the water, give this trick a try and see if it helps you catch more fish
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