Theories abound about the moon’s affect on fish and many anglers acknowledge it does influence their catch. So which moon phase is better for fishing?

Evidence suggests the new and full moons. The belief that bigger tides during these moon phases fish better matches a popular fishing saying, ‘no run no fun’. There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence supporting the theory that fish feed more actively around these spring tides.

You will still catch fish at any time during the lunar cycle but smart fishing is about maximising your potential for success. It’s easier to catch fish at certain times of the lunar month, so fish hard when the conditions are good and explore the features of new areas when the conditions are less favourable.

The backlighting of a full moon rising in a clear night sky is a great time to flick surface or shallow diving lures. The silhouette of a slowly worked lure is an irresistible target for hungry nocturnal predators. This theory also works well with a nervous live bait suspended just below the surface with a float. Shadow makes them easy targets for fish hunting from below.

The new moon fishes well at night because there’s a lot of baitfish movement—especially in estuaries, when prawns make a run for it under cover of darkness. These creatures at the bottom of the food chain like to be as invisible as possible when they make their move—but predators are wise to this and are ready for the ambush. And anglers, wise to this, are also ready.