If you are into fishing, you may have heard the saying, "The moon is perfect tonight. The fish will be biting." Or the opposite. "Full moon? Forget it. They fed all night."

Fishing has always involved moon phases, and for good reason. The moon affects tides, light intensity, and fish behavior. But should that be a reason to believe that it is always good or bad to fish on a full moon? Not exactly. So, is it good fishing on a full moon?

Let’s break it down in a simple, practical way, so that you will get to know what the phases of the moon really do aid you in catching more fish, and how to fish wiser than ever, regardless of the weather conditions of the sky.

Fishing During a Full Moon

The moon influences fishing in two main ways: movement and light.

Higher tides indicate higher movements of water, which causes feeding. This moves baitfish, triggers predators to feed, and positions fish in predictable areas. Fish also become more active in moonlight, particularly at night. An increase in light may imply an increase in feeding at night, but it may also cause fish to be wary in the daytime.

Is Full Moon Good for Fishing?

One of the most controversial stages in fishing is a full moon. On the one hand, the presence of full moons results in higher tides, particularly in salt water. Such higher currents may result in superb feeding periods, especially at tidal discontinuities. Fishing at full moon is also very effective since the fish can see and hunt better. The aggressive feeding of such species as snook, tarpon, trout, and most of the saltwater predators in the bright moonlight is also common.

On the downside, fish may feed heavily throughout the night. This allows them to be less hungry and harder to provoke to bite in the morning. So, full moon fishing may be good, but time is of the essence. You can take advantage of nighttime or tide changes rather than relying only on the morning bite.

The Best Moon Phases for Catching Fish

Most veteran fishermen can testify to the fact that fishing is frequently best when the new moon is approaching or when the new moon has already passed. A new moon makes the night extremely dark, which is why the fish may be compelled to feed more during the day. It also causes strong tidal swings, similar to a full moon.

The combination of those strong tides and more daytime feeding is what makes new moon periods widely regarded as prime time. The first and last quarter moons tend to create milder tides. Fishing remains good; however, feeding windows might be shorter or weaker compared to times of full moon and new moon.

Moon Phases and Saltwater vs Freshwater Fishing

Tides give saltwater the greatest impact on the moon.

The water movement in the coastal regions is directly regulated by the moon, and water movement is one of the largest feeding stimuli of saltwater fish. In freshwater fishing, moon phases are also a factor, primarily because they cause light and minor behavioral variations, but the impact is less predictable since there are no tides.

Bass anglers often report strong bites during full moon nights and particularly when the seasons are warm, and bass might be night feeders. Under the conditions of particular moons, panfish and catfish may be more active.

In freshwater, the moon’s impact is less predictable than in tidal conditions.

Full Moon Tips: Better Fishing

When fishing during a full moon, pay attention to the following:

It is usually better in the early morning and late evening than during the daytime. Night fishing may be excellent, particularly during the evenings around the structure, bridges, docks, and places where the bait accumulates. Watch the tide charts when in saltwater. Feeding is usually best when there is a current of moving water, particularly during the hour before and after the high or low tide. Fish may grow wary in clear water during bright nights, so use lighter leaders, quieter presentations, and natural baits or subtle lures.

Keep in mind: The Moon Is Only One Piece of the Puzzle

The phases of the moon come in handy, but not all. Often, weather, water temperature, barometric pressure, presence of bait, and seasonal patterns are equally important or even more than that. There are a few days with bad moon phases when some of the most successful fishing days are had, since all the other factors come together perfectly.

The moon helps you plan, but it does not guarantee success.

Fish Longer, Be Comfy

Something will always be true, no matter what the phase of the moon. The longer you spend time on the water, the more chances you have to associate with fish. This is the reason why comfort and protection are important, particularly during a long full moon night or a long early morning session.

At Dagon Fishing, we create performance gear that help our anglers spend time as long as the weather is good. Breathable UPF sun shirts and other clothes designed to protect you throughout the day out in the field; the appropriate clothes will keep you busy fishing and not fussing.

The best bite often happens when you are willing to stay out a little longer.

Is Full Moon Fishing Worth It?

Yes, full moon fishing can be excellent, especially when you understand how fish react to increased light and stronger tides.

Total moons tend to produce tremendous night action and good feeding windows during the changes of the tides. Even better daytime feeding opportunities might be provided by new moons. Moderate conditions are seen in quarter moons.

The trick is to use moon phases as a tool, not a rule.

Next time someone tells you it’s a full moon, don’t overthink it. Grab your gear, plan your timing, and hit the water.