Scents and the Angler

A fish’s survival depends on its keen senses, including hearing, sight, movement, touch, taste and smell. Anglers pay a great deal of attention to this sensory world too, such as the visual qualities of lures, size, shape and color. They also pay attention to sound and movement. However, most anglers do not pay much attention to smell, even though fish respond to and utilize these scents as a way to find food and avoid danger.

In short, anglers might catch more fish if they were more aware of the scents in a fish’s world, the dos and don’ts. Fish have two nostrils, one on each side of their head, where water enters and exits. Water containing scents are drawn into tiny channels leading to their olfactory pits, which are used for smelling. There are a number of studies about fish olfactory behavior, but the point is we need to be aware that fish do indeed have a well-developed sense of smell.

Fish and animals can detect human odor that has a negative effect which is why deer hunters take a great deal of precautions to avoid their own odor in the field, and as anglers, we need to do the same! I have watched fish come right up to a lure or fly and at the last minute turn away. Why? Who knows for sure? Maybe it was the wrong color, size or action or it had a funny smell. We cannot always know for sure why a fly or lure is rejected, but we can eliminate the known possibilities.

Not only do human odors affect fish and other animals, but human secretions can spell trouble too. Do not spit on your fly or lure for “good luck” And for you lake anglers don’t take a leak over the side of the boat and expect to catch fish in the same area. So how do you avoid putting your scent out there? Many bait fishermen put on rubber gloves before they put their bait on the hook. You can wash your hands often with unscented soap. I have also seen fly anglers tie on a fly and rub it in the mud or aquatic weeds before casting. The idea is to “adapt” your offering to the local terrain in hopes that it will mask any human odor.

In addition to human odor, many folks use insect repellant on their hands then touch the tackle they are about to use. Most repellants have a strong smell and once on your hands you impart that odor to the lure or fly, and in turn to the water, you are fishing. Gasoline and tobacco can do the same to your tackle so be sure to wash your hands a few times throughout the day to keep those scents off the fly, lure and the water. While masking is one thing, attracting is another. Is it ethical to put scents on flies? Many lure anglers have practiced this for years. As far as I can tell fly anglers are all over the map on this one, but I would say “most” fly anglers would frown on this practice. Moreover, a number of fishing regulations in certain states prohibit using scents for certain types of fishing. Make sure you check the regulations where you fish. The bottom line is being aware of what products you use and where you apply them.

If you are on a long awaited trip and have planned everything to the last detail, it would be wise to think about what you handle. In addition, are you transferring a scent to the lure or fly you are about to present to that fish you have dreamt about catching. Remember we are entering their world so whether you are using a fly, lure or bait fishing they have the distinct advantage. . . keep that in mind before you make that first cast!