Rivers concentrate fish in predictable locations. Reading the water—understanding where current, depth, and structure create ideal lies—is the key to consistent success.
Where Fish Hold
River fish face upstream, waiting for current to deliver food. They hold in spots that provide:
- Food: Current brings insects, baitfish, and debris
- Shelter: Protection from predators and harsh current
- Oxygen: Moving water holds more dissolved oxygen
Prime Lies to Target
Pools
Deep, slow sections between riffles. Fish rest here. The head of the pool (where riffle enters) often holds the largest fish—first in line for drifting food.
Current Seams
Where fast water meets slow water. Fish hold in the calm side and dart into current to grab food. Look for foam lines marking these transitions.
Undercut Banks
Current erodes the outer bend of river curves, creating undercuts. Big fish hide here—shaded, protected, with food drifting past.
Structure
Boulders, logs, bridge pilings—anything that breaks current. Fish tuck behind these obstructions in the calm water.
Tail-outs
Where pools shallow before the next riffle. Fish feed here, especially at dawn and dusk when light is low.
Reading Water Speed
Surface appearance reveals what’s happening below:
- Smooth, glassy: Deep and slow
- Choppy, broken: Shallow or obstructed
- Boils: Rocks or structure below
- Slicks: Deep spots in otherwise rough water
Approach Matters
River fish spook easily. Approach from downstream (fish face upstream). Move slowly. Keep low. Make your first cast count—often your best chance at undisturbed fish.
Seasonal Adjustments
High water: Fish move to edges and slack water. Target banks and eddies.
Low water: Fish concentrate in pools. Approach carefully—they’re easy to spook.
Cold water: Fish hold in slow, deep water. Slow your presentation.
Rivers are puzzles that reward observation. The angler who spends five minutes watching before casting outfishes the angler who starts casting immediately.
