Even after all these years, no scientific information that I'm aware of has ever indicated a statistically significant connection between solunar periods and increased fishing success in freshwater. We do have on record, however, some curious scientific data suggesting the possibility of increased catches of big fish during certain periods. We'll get into the details of some of that data as we write our magazine issues for this coming year.

For now, as in the past, we're left to believe or not believe, based on the application of our own logic to the question and the results of our own experiments in the field as we note our success, or lack of it, during solunar periods.

I believe. But I also have watched enough over the years, calculated and recalculated enough to know that the effect isn't overwhelming and probably usually means little or nothing at all. Still, from my empirical perspective, get the solunar timing right for the right species on the right body of water, during the right yearly period -- then get the right weather -- and odds increase for big fish. Of course, the angler also must have a seasoned clue about presentation options in order to be successful.

I think I have success tying in solunar effects during late summer and throughout fall, beginning with the first full moon of August -- especially when the full moon occurs later in the month, which is the case this season. I like that full-moon period if I'm to begin fishing at night for walleyes. I also like a late August or early September new moon to begin a serious hunt for large muskies.

I've had little success trying to time my fishing to supposed peaking periods during days when the moon is overhead or directly below. Instead, I heed monthly periods, especially days leading into the new- and full-moon periods. On the fishing calendars and solunar charts we run in each magazine, we focus on the days before and after these moon periods. But I generally haven't seen increased activity on waning moons. Give me the three or four days leading into a new or full moon, for walleyes and muskies. Then give me another few days after the full moon, for walleyes.

The connection for me and walleyes has been fishing during the period coming into the full moon, beginning at and after dark. August can be good, but the best bites are during September and October -- and November (when the weather allows). I've also done well for walleyes on ice during the full moon period in December.

On the other hand, I have done best on the days coming into the dark of the moon for muskies, where my fishing almost always takes place during the day. One might suggest that some of this supposed success for both fish is a matter of light; that walleyes feed best at night when there's more light present, and feed less effectively when much light isn't present; and that when muskies don't have the light required to feed effectively at night, they're likely to feed more heavily during the day.