Main points
- In January 2026, the best fish bite is predicted for the 8th – 13th and 23rd – 27th.
- The New Moon and Full Moon periods are less favorable for fishing, and the bite is affected by ice thickness, atmospheric pressure, and the phases of the Moon.
When to go fishing / Photo Freepik
Last month pleased avid fishermen with mild weather, when you could go to the river and definitely bring back a few trophies. However, January will not be so mild, and will force winter fishing enthusiasts to remember all their skills.
When is the best time to fish in January?
January is the middle of winter, when there is usually a stable ice cover and the period of dead winter sets in, reports 24 Channel with reference to the Ukrainian Society of Hunters and Fishermen. Fish activity at this time is minimal due to thick ice, lack of oxygen, and stable low temperatures.
The fish bite calendar will tell you the best time for fishing in January 2026. Success in January 2026 will depend on accurately finding fish locations, using delicate gear, and choosing the most favorable phases of the moon.
Predators (pike perch, pike) stay in holes and ledges. In the second half of the month, in case of warming or thawing, a short-term increase in biting is possible, especially for perch.
Fishing calendar for January / Photo Ukrainian Society of Hunters and Fishermen
Winter fishing depends on ice thickness, atmospheric pressure, and the phase of the moon. The New Moon and Full Moon periods are traditionally less successful for fishing.
In January 2026, the bite is expected according to the following pattern:
- Best bite: 8, 9,10, 11, 12, 13, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27;
- Good bite: 6, 7, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29;
- Weak bite: 1, 2, 4, 5, 16, 17, 19, 20, 30, 31;
- Bad bite: 3, 18.
In Ukraine, since December 1, it has been forbidden to catch crayfish: what is the punishment for violation?
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From December 1, a complete ban on catching crayfish has been introduced in Ukraine to preserve their population.
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Illegal fishing of crayfish is punishable by administrative fines, criminal liability, and compensation for damages in the amount of UAH 3,332 per crayfish.