Fishing is an age-old activity steeped in tradition, tall tales, and well-worn advice passed down through generations. While there’s wisdom in experience, not every piece of “common knowledge” holds water (no pun intended). In fact, some long-held fishing beliefs are more myth than truth and continue to persist today, which makes some anglers ill-informed and apply that false knowledge in their fishing strategies. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common fishing myths and set the record straight.

Myth #1: You Can’t Fish in the Rain

Many anglers pack it in when the weather turns grey, assuming fish won’t bite in the rain. But rain, especially light or moderate rain, can improve your chances. Rain breaks up surface visibility, cools the water, and can flush insects and baitfish into the open, triggering feeding behaviour. The key is safety: if there’s lightning or heavy wind, it’s best to pack it up and head for safety, but a light drizzle can be your secret weapon. So be on your Quintrex Territory Legend and continue your fishing efforts, as long as you don’t mind getting wet.

Myth #2: Fish Don’t Bite During the Middle of the Day

While dawn and dusk are traditionally seen as prime time for fishing, that doesn’t mean you are unable to catch any fish in the middle of the day. In warmer weather, fish may head for deeper, cooler waters during midday, but with the right tactics, like changing bait, slowing your retrieve, or fishing deeper, you can still hook plenty. Some species, like bass, even become more active if there’s cloud cover or wind.

Myth #3: Bigger Bait Means Bigger Fish

It’s true that large predators sometimes prefer a hearty meal, but big fish will often go after smaller, easier prey too. Matching your bait size to the conditions and the fish's behaviour is far more important than simply upsizing. In fact, when fish are feeling pressured or lethargic, smaller lures or baits can outperform oversized offerings.

Myth #4: The Moon Controls All Fishing Success

The moon phases affect tides and light levels, which influence fish activity, especially in saltwater, but it’s not the be-all and end-all. Some anglers swear by lunar calendars, but others have had just as much luck during a so-called ‘poor’ moon phase. Instead of relying solely on the moon, consider other factors like weather, water temperature, and time of year.

Myth #5: Talking Scares the Fish Away

Fish don’t hear sound in the same way humans do. Loud thumping, engine noises from your Yamaha boat engine, or dropping heavy items into the boat can certainly alert them, especially in shallow water. But normal conversation won’t scare fish off. So feel free to chat while casting, it won’t ruin your chances.

Myth #6: You Have to Use Live Bait to Catch Fish

Live bait can be very effective, but it’s far from the only way to catch fish. Artificial lures, soft plastics, and even flies can match or beat live bait depending on how they’re used. The real secret lies in understanding fish behaviour and presenting your bait naturally.

The Bottom Line

Fishing is part science, part art, and part storytelling, but not every story is based on fact. By questioning myths and focusing on observation, technique, and preparation, you’ll become a better angler. The next time someone tells you the fish “just aren’t biting today,” you’ll know better than to simply take their word for it.