Tips For Spring Bird Watching and Fishing

Spring bird watching while fishing is a special way to take a deep dive into the natural world because there are many bird species found near lakes, not to mention the migrating birds that need water on their long journeys. This means that fishing and birding (and boating) go together like apple pie and ice cream. Some of the best locations for spring birding include fishing spots with great wildlife and migratory birds near water teeming with fish for you…and for them!

The Best Locations for Spring Birding

No matter where you live in the United States, you are likely near one of the best locations for spring birding. This is because, for American bird lovers, there may be migratory birds near water in springtime. Birds descending from the sky provide prime birdwatching opportunities on the water and mating grounds throughout the country. That said, not all locations are equal for spring bird watching. Geography, habitat, and other factors make some areas better than others, although a lake, marshlands, wildlife refuges, and other bodies of water make for superb fishing spots with great wildlife on show.

Bird Species Found Near Lakes

Imagine the scene: you’ve cast a line into the water on a beautiful spring morning and suddenly, birds begin to arrive, sharing this beautiful moment with you. Fishing and birding are joys to experience together, and while spring bird watching, here are some of the bird species found near lakes:

• Herons

• Egrets

• Kingfishers

• Ospreys

• Eagles

• Coots

• Pelicans

• Cormorants

• Warblers

• Finches

• And of course, the ever-present honkers, Canada geese

Ethical Bird Watching Tips

Whether you’re simply hiking with a pair of binoculars in your hands, want to know how to plan spring fishing for beginners, or are already booked for some fishing and birding this month, it’s easy to enjoy both activities while ensuring that the birds—both local feathered friends and visiting migratory birds near water—are safe. Whether you’re a new birder or a seasoned pro, it’s vitally important to take steps to care for all birds and wildlife. The three things to know while spring bird watching are:

• Respect birds by keeping your distance, especially when nests are present, leaving your dog at home, and avoiding playing or making artificial bird sounds.

• Respect their habitat by staying on designated trails, picking up litter, and not trampling on any habitats.

• Respect other birders enjoying spring bird watching by sharing your knowledge when asked, traveling in small groups, and staying on established trails.

These are the ethical bird watching tips to think about as you plan your spring fishing trips to ensure birds continue to live in and make their annual visits to our green spaces and watering holes for many years to come.

Wildlife-Friendly Fishing Practices

When fishing and birding this spring, keep in mind the ways you can observe safe wildlife-friendly fishing practices. In this way, nature conservation through recreation is not only possible, it’s easy! You can do this by not overfishing, reducing by-catch (catching non-target species of fish), and always releasing fish safely while catching and releasing. Releasing fish quietly away from other marine life, and in accordance with local and state regulations, will help ensure the fish population stays strong.

Discover how fishing and boating help protect water resources and provide heathy habitats for birds, and how those feathered friends help you fish!