Fishing in Wind: How to Turn a Problem into an Advantage

For many anglers, the decision not to go fishing is made before they even leave the house. A quick look at the forecast, a strong wind symbol on the screen, and plans are quietly shelved. Wind has a reputation for making fishing hard work, with awkward casting, poor bite detection, and uncomfortable bankside conditions. But written off too quickly, it can cost anglers some of their best opportunities.

The truth is, wind isn’t automatically bad. In many situations, it actively improves fishing if you understand what it’s doing.

A warm, steady wind can be one of the most useful conditions an angler encounters. On stillwaters, it pushes warmer surface water into the windward bank, often raising temperatures slightly and increasing oxygen levels. That movement concentrates food and encourages fish to feed. In these conditions, fishing into the wind is often the right call, even if it feels uncomfortable. Many experienced anglers will actively seek out the windward bank, knowing that fish are far more likely to be present.

A gale force warm south-westerly wind in January pushed fish into feeding mode, producing the only carp landed on this lake for eight weeks.

Cold winds tell a different story. A biting northerly or easterly can chill surface water quickly, particularly in winter and early spring. When that happens, fish will often move away from the wind, settling into more stable conditions on the sheltered, leeward side of the water. Understanding the type of wind matters just as much as its strength, and choosing where to fish accordingly can make the difference between a quiet day and steady action.

Wind also creates movement in water that appears otherwise still. As wind pushes surface water in one direction, the water level must remain balanced. This sets up a slow undertow, with water moving back against the wind along the bottom. That subtle movement shifts debris, dislodges food, and redistributes natural prey. Fish quickly learn to use these flows, positioning themselves where food is delivered with minimal effort.

On rivers, wind can have equally important effects. A strong wind blowing upstream can slow the surface flow, particularly on narrower rivers. On tidal rivers, the effect can be even more pronounced. An onshore wind backing up the tide in the sea can hold water levels higher for longer, slowing the river and changing how fish behave and where they sit. Anglers who recognise this can adjust their tactics, rigs, and feeding accordingly.

Wind also helps fish feel safer. Surface chop breaks up light penetration and shadows, making fish less wary. In flat calm conditions, fish can be cautious and easily spooked. A ripple on the surface provides cover, encouraging fish to move into shallower water and feed more confidently. This is especially noticeable in clear venues and pressured waters.

Wind-chopped surfaces on shallow waters like the Norfolk Broads reduce light and visibility, helping fish feel safer and more active.

Casting and presentation do need adapting in windy conditions, but small changes go a long way. Keeping casts lower reduces the amount of line affected by the wind and improves accuracy. Using slightly heavier leads, feeders, or floats helps maintain control and prevents tackle from being dragged off line. Just as importantly, sinking the line becomes vital. By getting as much line under the surface as possible, you reduce the wind’s influence, improve bite detection, and maintain far better contact with your rig.

Line control becomes increasingly important as wind strength rises. Bow in the line delays striking and masks bites. Thinner mainlines cut through air and water more efficiently, and thoughtful rod positioning can dramatically reduce the amount of line exposed to the wind. In stronger conditions, fishing closer in rather than pushing for maximum distance often results in better control and more consistent results.

Comfort shouldn’t be overlooked either. Fishing effectively in wind requires staying warm, dry, and stable enough to concentrate. Proper windproof layers, sensible shelter, and secure seating all contribute to better decision-making and more effective fishing.

Wind doesn’t have to ruin a session. Dress for it, understand what it’s doing to the water, and it can actually help you catch more.

Perhaps the biggest shift is mental. Less experienced anglers often see wind as something to work around or avoid. Experienced anglers tend to grow in confidence when the wind picks up, knowing that if they get it right, truly bumper days can be had. Wind doesn’t stop fish feeding — it changes where and how they feed.

Learn to read the wind, adapt to it, and a forecast that once put you off going fishing may soon become the reason you head out in the first place.