How To Catch Burbot In The Summer

How to Catch Burbot in the Summer: A Guide for Anglers

Burbot fishing is usually associated with cold-water conditions, making summer burbot fishing a unique challenge. While they're less active during warmer months, it's not impossible to land these elusive fish. This guide will provide you with the techniques and knowledge needed to increase your chances of catching burbot during the summer.

Understanding Summer Burbot Behavior

Key Differences from Winter: In the summer, burbot seek out cooler, deeper waters to escape the rising temperatures. Their metabolism slows, resulting in less aggressive feeding. This means traditional winter techniques may not be as effective.

Locating Summer Burbot Habitats

• Deep Water: Focus your efforts on deep holes, underwater canyons, and areas with significant depth changes. Look for water temperatures below the average summer temperature for the region.
• Cool Water Inflows: Springs, inlets, and streams feeding into the lake can provide localized areas of cooler water that burbot will congregate near.
• Structure: Burbot like structure. Look for areas with submerged rocks, logs, weed beds (deeper areas), and drop-offs.

Summer Burbot Fishing Techniques

Patience is Key: Remember, summer burbot fishing requires more patience than winter fishing. Their feeding activity is significantly reduced.

Effective Baits and Lures

• Live Bait: Smaller live bait like minnows or nightcrawlers can be effective, especially when presented slowly near structure.
• Slow-Moving Lures: Use slow-moving lures like small jigs, spoons, or soft plastics in dark colors (black, purple, brown) that mimic the burbot's natural prey. Retrieve them very slowly near the bottom.
• Scent: Adding scent to your bait or lure can significantly enhance your chances of attracting a bite. Consider using scents like fish oil, anise, or garlic.

Tackle and Gear

• Heavy Line: Burbot have surprisingly strong jaws, so using heavier line (at least 10-pound test) is recommended to prevent break-offs.
• Sensitive Rod and Reel: A sensitive rod and reel combination will help you detect the subtle bites of a sluggish summer burbot.
• Bottom Fishing Setup: Employ a bottom fishing setup, using weights to keep your bait or lure close to the bottom where burbot reside.

Tips for Success

• Fish at Night or Early Morning: Burbot are more active during these cooler times of the day.
• Target Specific Locations: Focus your fishing efforts on known burbot habitats that offer deep water and structure.
• Experiment with Different Presentations: Try different bait types, lure colors, and retrieve speeds to find what works best in your specific fishing location.
• Use Sonar: A fish finder with sonar capabilities can help identify deep holes, structure, and fish presence, increasing your chances of success.

Conclusion

Summer burbot fishing presents a unique challenge but can be a rewarding experience for anglers who are willing to adapt their strategies. By understanding their altered behavior, selecting appropriate locations, and using effective techniques, you can increase your chances of catching these elusive fish even during the warmer months. Remember, patience, persistence, and a bit of luck will go a long way!