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November, a month of transition into winter
Falling temperatures, shorter days, and the first frosts are gradually changing the behavior of fish. The water is getting colder, aquatic vegetation is dying back, and forage fish often gather in deeper areas.
Predators naturally follow these concentrations of prey. Their activity may remain high, particularly before a weather system moves in or during a period of relatively stable temperatures.
In November, success depends more on locating the fish than on casting repeatedly. You need to learn how to fish along drop-offs, in deep spots, around submerged obstacles, and in areas where whitefish congregate.
Pike: The Season for Big Fish
November is a particularly good time to fish for large pike. As the water temperature drops, the fish can become active and take on large prey.
Deep edges, remaining weed beds, rocky outcrops, and drops are prime fishing spots.
Large shads, swimbaits, and jerkbaits are particularly effective. Lures measuring 15 to 25 cm allow you to target large fish, although smaller models are sometimes still necessary.
The retrieve should be adjusted to the fish's activity level. A slow retrieve, punctuated by pauses, can trigger strikes when pike become less aggressive.
Zander: Focus on deeper waters
Zander are among the must-catch species in November. As the water cools, they tend to frequent deep pools, drop-offs, and submerged structures, while still moving into shallower areas to feed.
Vertical fishing with soft lures is particularly effective from a boat. From the shore, slow retrieves or scraping techniques allow you to explore areas near the bottom.
Shads and finesse lures ranging from 8 to 15 cm are a good starting point. Natural colors are generally best for clear water, while more visible shades can be effective when the water is slightly tinted.
The bites can be very subtle. Good rod sensitivity and constant attention to the float are essential.
Perche: Finding Gatherings
In November, perch tend to gather around schools of small fish. Once located, they can make for particularly productive fishing sessions.
Small soft plastics, vibrating spoons, metal lures, and drop-shot rigs are effective for catching them.
Ports, docks, bridge piers, breaks, and deep areas are good spots to fish. Slow fishing near the bottom is often productive when temperatures drop.
Using a fish finder on a boat can make it easier to locate schools of fish, but carefully observing the activity of forage fish is also valuable.
Black Bass: A More Technical Form of Fishing
Black bass can still be caught in November, especially in regions with a relatively mild fall. However, their activity becomes more sporadic.
Fish seek out areas with relatively stable temperatures and shelter near deeper waters.
Soft lures rigged with a Texas rig, jig, or finesse rig allow you to slowly work your way through structure and drop-offs.
Sunny days can trigger brief periods of activity, especially around midday when the shallow waters warm up slightly.
Carp and Whitefish: Slowing Down Your Approach
Carp fishing is still possible in November, even though feeding periods often become shorter. The fish tend to frequent calm areas, deep pools, and zones with relatively stable water temperatures.
It is best to limit baiting and opt for discreet presentations. Boilies, pellets, and natural baits can still yield good results.
For roach and bream, feeder fishing or bottom fishing remains a good option. Low-nutrient groundbait, small hooks, and live bait such as maggots and worms allow you to adapt to less active fish.
Where can you go freshwater fishing in November?
Finding the right spots is crucial. In rivers, deep pools, areas where the current slows down, confluences, and submerged obstacles deserve special attention.
In lakes and reservoirs, breaks in the shoreline, points, and former submerged valleys can support large concentrations of fish.
The wind also plays a role. Depending on the temperature and weather conditions, certain exposed banks may attract schools of forage fish, while sheltered areas sometimes offer greater stability.
However, one should not assume that all fish are always found at depth. Mild weather can still draw them to shallower areas.
Tips for Enjoying Your Outings This November
As late fall approaches, a few adjustments can significantly improve results:
- Slow down the animations when the fish become less active.
- Vary the depths to identify areas of concentration.
- Look for forage fish, which are often followed by predatory fish.
- Prioritize periods of stable weather, without ignoring changes in the weather.
- Adjust your lures and rigs to the water temperature and depth.
- Check local regulations, including open seasons, quotas, and rules specific to each species.
November: The Perfect Month for Predator Fishing Enthusiasts
With fewer visitors than in the summer, the lakes and rivers regain their peaceful atmosphere. For predator anglers, November is an ideal time to go after beautiful pike, zander, and large perch.
Conditions can be challenging, but there are still plenty of opportunities. The key is to understand fish movements, adjust your fishing speed accordingly, and take advantage of periods of activity.
With its autumn scenery, the first frosts, and the potential for great catches, November adds a whole new dimension to freshwater fishing?one that?s more technical but often thrilling.
