A stealthy approach when fishing is more important than most anglers think. Regardless of if you are on a heavily pressured tailwater or on a remote flat where the fish only see a handful of anglers a year, a more stealthy approach on the water will lead to more fish landed. In shallow or calm conditions, freshwater or salt, stay low! Simply put, this will help you get closer to your target without the fish seeing you.
I always tell clients when they are fishing for trout, that the large trout are the kings of their underwater domain. Their predators (humans and birds) come from above. This is why a stealthy approach can make such a difference in success. A shadow over top of a fish is a quick way to put the fish down. I have even had instances where I am targeting a single rising trout and have resorted to army crawling to get into casting range. This is a pretty extreme example but it did help make a different by allowing me to get closer to the fish without him becoming aware of my presence. Same with fishing the flats. If you are stalking a tailing bonefish in some skinny water, they will be very wary of any movement overhead. On those clam days with no wind, the fish can be especially skittish. If you are seeing fish regularly spook, remember to get low out there! Crouching down, being aware of your shadows and any overhead movement will help you get closer to the fish and increase your chance of hooking up!
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