Understanding the senses of a fish is imperative to successful fishing. What bait should you use? Will they see it? What color? Let's take a look at what a fish is capable of sensing .

If you have been angling for catfish, you probably know the stinkier the bait, the better. Catfish, sunfish, salmon and trout are particularly sensitive to scent. These fish heavily rely on their sense of smell to survive.

This is not the case for all fish. Although you have seen and most likely purchased scented baits for fish such as bass and pike, these fish are not as sensitive to smells.

Fish can detect sounds underwater, although they do not have ear drums and external ears. The sounds vibrate through tissue and into an inner ear, which also stabilizes equalibrium for the fish. Any type of lure and bait that creates sound will further your chances for a successful day of fishing.

Fish that live in fairly shallow water have good eyesite. They are capable of seeing colors, although this is limited to the clarity of the water. Fish that live in deeper waters can see shadows, but are not able to see colors cleary. As water becomes deeper, it filters out color - so the fish does not need the capability to differentiate colors in its habitat. The deeper your fish, the more you should concentrate on flashing lures with action that will attract and a size that will entice.

Fish have pores that are connected to nerve endings along the sides of the body. This is called the lateral line, and functions as a sensor for vibration and movement. The lateral line is a critical sense, enabling fish to sense danger as well as food. Fish are capable of determining size, location and direction of predators and prey through the lateral line. Baits that provide vibration will stimulate the lateral line and provoke strikes often.

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