Moon Phases & Solunar Theory – Timing Your Sessions
Moon phases have been debated by anglers forever. Some swear by full moons. Others ignore lunar cycles completely. The truth sits in the middle.
Moon phase does influence carp behavior — but nowhere near as much as temperature, pressure, wind, and oxygen. Think of the moon as a fine-tuning tool, not a decision-maker.
The Four Main Moon Phases
New Moon
Dark nights, limited visibility.
Carp often feed more during daylight because nighttime feeding is reduced.
Good for dawn and dusk sessions.
First Quarter / Last Quarter
Moderate light.
These periods often produce steady, predictable feeding without major shifts.
A good “normal” phase.
Full Moon
Bright nights.
Carp frequently feed heavily overnight, then slow during daytime.
Day fishing can be tough — night sessions often shine.
What Actually Changes
Moon mainly affects:
• Light levels at night
• Feeding timing
• Confidence in shallow water
It does NOT override poor conditions.
45°F water with perfect moon = still tough fishing.
Solunar Theory (Major & Minor Periods)
Solunar calendars suggest feeding peaks when:
• Moon is overhead or underfoot (major)
• Moon is rising or setting (minor)
Sometimes this aligns with bites.
Sometimes it doesn’t.
Use solunar periods as a timing hint, not a rule.
Practical Use
If conditions are already good:
Use moon phase to fine-tune session timing.
If conditions are bad:
Moon phase won’t save it.
Michigan Notes
Full moons on clear inland lakes often push feeding to night.
New moons can improve daytime action.
Lake Michigan carp seem far less affected — wind and temperature dominate.
My Rule
I never cancel fishing because of moon phase.
But I will adjust:
• Full moon → fish overnight
• New moon → fish daytime
• Quarter moons → fish normally
That’s it.
Key Takeaways
• Moon is a minor influence
• Light matters more than gravity
• Full moon favors night
• New moon favors day
• Solunar is optional
• Never override temperature or weather
• Use moon only to fine-tune timing
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