You see "Solunar Periods" in every ReelTime forecast, but what does it actually mean? The Solunar Theory, developed by John Alden Knight in 1926, suggests that the gravitational pull of the moon and sun influences animal and fish behavior, just as it influences the tides.
Major vs. Minor Periods
The theory is built around two types of feeding periods:
- Major Periods: These are the strongest periods of activity, lasting about two hours. They occur when the moon is directly overhead (moonrise/moon transit) or directly underfoot on the opposite side of the earth. This is when the gravitational pull is strongest.
- Minor Periods: These are shorter bursts of activity, usually lasting about an hour. They occur when the moon is rising or setting on the horizon.
Is It Real?
While the theory has its skeptics, generations of anglers and hunters swear by it. The logic is sound: if the moon can move entire oceans, it's plausible it has a subtle effect on all living things. Many anglers find that the best fishing often happens when a Major or Minor period coincides with other favorable conditions, like a moving tide or sunrise/sunset.
How We Use It
Our AI doesn't rely on the solunar calendar alone. Instead, it uses it as a key variable. It cross-references the Major and Minor periods with weather, tide, and wind data to identify the "Best Times to Fish." When a strong solunar period aligns with a strong outgoing tide and the sun is low, the AI gives that time a very high score for potential fish activity. It's one more powerful piece of the puzzle to help you fish smarter.