Fishing before a Storm with Storm Force
Insights from the crew at Storm Force Sportfishing
You’ve probably heard it before — “the fish bite better before a storm.” And it’s true. At Storm Force Sportfishing, we’ve seen firsthand how pre-storm conditions can light up the bite like few other windows can.
But what actually causes this spike in action? And how can you take advantage of it — safely?
Let’s break it down.
What’s Going On Beneath the Surface
As a storm approaches, the barometric pressure drops, and fish notice. Unlike us, they feel pressure changes through their swim bladders, and it affects how they behave.
Here's what happens:
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Low pressure loosens fish up. They become more active and comfortable leaving cover.
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The cloud cover and choppier water give them a sense of security, especially in shallow zones.
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Many species go into feeding mode, sensing that a change is coming — and they might not eat again for a while.
We often tell our charter guests: “If you’ve got a few hours before the weather rolls in, that’s go-time.”
When to Hit the Water
The sweet spot is typically a few hours before the storm makes landfall — when skies are darkening, winds are shifting, and pressure is dropping, but it’s still safe to be out.
Look for:
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Cloud buildup
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Sudden temperature drops
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Wind picking up
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A falling barometer, if you’re tracking one
If we’re seeing those signs and conditions are still safe, we know the bite could be on fire.
Safety is Everything
As much as we love a hot bite, safety always comes first. Weather can shift fast. Keep an eye on radar, know your exit plan, and don’t push it if thunder or lightning gets close.
At Storm Force Sportfishing, we never gamble with safety — we’d rather call it early than get caught in something we can’t control.
Final Word from the Storm Force Crew
Fishing before a storm can produce some of the most memorable trips of the season — fast action, aggressive strikes, and big fish that just seem more willing to play. It’s not a guarantee, but when the conditions line up, it’s one of the best times to be on the water. Sometimes a storm can also do the opposite, shutting the bite down. But this explains what happens before a storm.