Autumn is a time of transition: The weather changes, the leaves change colors, and — as every hunter and angler knows — hunting and fishing tactics change, too. Your ability to vary your techniques can mean the difference in landing your trophy deer or fish and going home empty-handed. Terry Tuma explains that the most important colors for fall fishing are the ones at the end of your line.

michigan-fishing-laws-295x195 Photo by Trails.com

Versatility applies to locations, too. First we must find locations that we feel good about, then work them thoroughly. Too often fishermen hang it up too fast. Our society gives up too easily these days.

I change color often and it’s a key facet to the versatility formula. We all have our favorite colors that we start with, but if you’re marking fish and those lures are not producing, it’s time to change. At the very least, downsize, slow down, and use lures that are not so aggressive (less vibration, less jigging.) If it’s a wacky worm, for example, let it lay on the bottom longer.

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Photos: Maryland Department of Natural Resources (top); Trails.com (above)