What The Flock!
Reading The Birds.
Few sights on the water match the exhilaration of spotting a flock of birds in frenzied action.
It’s the universal signal: THE BITE IS ON! From afar, you can see flying fish scattering, desperately avoiding predators below and swooping birds above. It’s a breathtaking spectacle—a “proper feed” in full swing. For any angler, trolling right into the heart of this natural food chain is the stuff of dreams.
Spotting bird activity should trigger a chain reaction on deck for any crew intent on filling the fish box. This process starts with spotting the birds, identifying the species and their flight patterns, and understanding which fish are feeding. The next step is adapting your gear and tackle to the situation, followed by executing proper boat handling to keep the bite going. Think of it as a four-step mantra: Spot, Identify, Adapt, Execute.
As Above, So Below.
Understanding what is happening above the surface can tell you a lot about what is going on below.
Birds and Fishing: A Timeless Relationship.
The bond between anglers and marine birds is one forged over millennia. Dating back to the Cretaceous period, these opportunistic creatures have shared their secrets with sailors, hunters, and fishermen. Sailors historically relied on birds to locate land and fresh water. Hunters use birds as aerial spotters for coastal predators. But it is fishermen who share the strongest connection, as marine birds reliably point to fish stocks.
From a single frigate bird to a thousand gulls, the presence of birds often means fish below. However, their interest in our lures can sometimes be a nuisance. I recall a day near Sombrero Island when, in addition to landing a fantastic haul of wahoo, we unintentionally hooked a booby bird. Handling a tangled bird is no angler’s idea of fun, but it’s crucial to do so with care. These birds are vital to marine ecosystems, and their populations face growing threats from habitat loss, pollution, and human interference. Remember, when we’re fishing, we’re essentially raiding their pantry. A little respect goes a long way.
Decoding Bird Behavior.
Search Patterns
Frigate birds often soar at high altitudes, descending only when spotting potential prey. Boobies and terns, on the other hand, glide closer to the water, making them easier to track when they spot fish.
Directional Clues
If scattered birds are consistently flying in the same direction, they’re likely following fish. Adjust your course accordingly.
Flight Adjustments
When fish dive deeper, birds often ascend to maintain a better vantage point. Similarly, sitting birds may be waiting for fish to resurface, offering an opportunity worth investigating.
Pay attention to these details. Recognizing even subtle cues can lead to more efficient time management and better results on the water.
BoostingYour Odds: Technology and Observation.
Modern boat electronics, like those from Furuno, Raymarine, or Garmin, have revolutionized fishing. These tools offer advanced navigation, sonar imaging, and underwater topography that can turn any angler into a near-expert. However, not everyone has access to high-end tech, and even the best gadgets can’t replace the value of good old-fashioned observation. My friend Jeff from St. Martin always says, “Give me a rod and binoculars, and I’ll give you a fish.”
Binoculars, especially image-stabilizing models, can significantly increase your chances of finding fish-holding bird activity.
While high-end models can cost up to $2,000, quality binoculars in the $100–$200 range can do the job just fine. These tools are invaluable when scanning the horizon, especially when conditions make spotting birds difficult.
Don’t forget to check your wake, sometimes action emerges where you least expect it.
Fish and Bird Partners in Crime.
Fish species often hunt in pairs or groups, and marine birds frequently tag along. For example, mahi-mahi and tuna or stripers and bluefish often feed in tandem.
This interspecies collaboration extends to the birds themselves. Watching different species of birds can provide critical insights into the type of fish in the area.
One memorable trip off St. Kitts saw a frenzy of mahi-mahi action followed by wahoo, just as local fisherman Larry predicted. Similarly, a lone frigate bird ignoring a nearby tuna feed has often tipped me off to the presence of marlin. Sometimes, a single bird is all you need to find your prize.
'Sometimes, a single bird is all you need to find your prize.'
Executing the Approach.
Once you spot birds, resist the urge to charge straight in. Rushing in recklessly, or using what I call the “plow technique,” can spook fish and disrupt the bite.
1. Identify the Birds and Fish
Larger fish like mahi-mahi or yellowfin tuna are often accompanied by brown boobies or frigates, which swoop across the surface. Smaller tuna, like bonito or skipjack, tend to attract hundreds of diving birds.
2. Adjust Your Gear
Use the time before reaching the flock to switch lures and prepare the deck. Don’t risk wasting an opportunity due to unpreparedness.
3. Strategic Positioning
For schooling fish, stay on the periphery and cast ahead to avoid scattering them. For larger fish, focus on areas where birds are swooping or circling.
Eyes in the Skys, Final Thoughts.
Fishing alongside birds never gets old. Their movements are an exciting visual element and provide invaluable clues that increase your success. So, the next time you’re out, take the time to observe and interpret what these feathered allies are telling you. They’re nature’s fish finders—your “eyes in the sky.” Trust them, respect them, and they’ll reward you.
Tight lines,
Capt. Doug Nelson.
