Fishing is a popular hobby, especially in the summer months! Have you found that you’re not getting many bites on your bait? The reason for this might be because you’re accidentally repelling the fish! Find out which scents fish can’t stand so you can avoid them next time you cast your rod.
Catching fish is easier if you aren’t accidentally deterring them.
©Brandon Stinnett/Shutterstock.com
1. Natural Human Oils
Fish are repelled by the scent of human skin oil.
©carles miro/iStock via Getty Images
Fish have been prey for humans for many years. It makes sense that they would learn to associate human scents with danger. L-serine, a human skin oil, is a natural deterrent for fish. This amino acid, which is more common in light-skinned people, is sure to send fish in the other direction. It might be wise to wear gloves or mask the scent of your skin while fishing.
2. Nicotine
Leave your tobacco at home when you head out on your next fishing trip.
©iStock.com/VichienPetchmai
You might notice that many people light up a cigarette or cigar while fishing. In some parts of the country, a myth still circulates that a bit of tobacco on your lure will make it more appealing to fish. The reality is that this could hurt your chance of catching a fish. Nicotine or smoke tends to repel fish.
3. Petroleum Distillates
Fish may associate the smell of petroleum distillates with humans, or they may truly hate the scent.
©flyingrussian/iStock via Getty Images
Petroleum and its distillates will be sure to send fish fleeing. Any diesel, unleaded gas, or motor oil that hits the water will tell fish to leave or take cover. This might be because they associate the smell of gas with humans or truly dislike the scent.
4. Scented Soaps
It’s a good idea to wash your hands after you’re done fishing for the day, as fish can’t stand the smell of scented soaps.
©Benjamin Clapp/Shutterstock.com
You might be tempted to wash your hands before or between casting your line. If you do, make sure you avoid scented or perfumed soaps. If fish catch a whiff of these scents, they will quickly head in the other direction.
5. Bug Spray
©vitec/Shutterstock.com
Most bug sprays have a chemical mixture in them called DEET. The name is an acronym created from its scientific identification — N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or diethyltoluamide. While this works great in avoiding biting insects, it will also decrease the bites on your line! Bug spray can also last for a while on your hands, so ensure you wash your hands before attaching your bait.
6. Sunscreen
Sunscreen suntan lotion in spray bottle. Young woman in spraying tanning oil on her leg from bottle. Lady is massaging sunscreen lotion while sunbathing at beach. Female model during summer vacation.
©iStock.com/Maridav
Are you curious if you should use sunscreen near the water while fishing? Don’t be surprised if your rod goes dead after applying your sunscreen. This scent has proven to be off-putting for fish. Ensure your hands are thoroughly rinsed before you begin fishing. There are hands-off options available, too, such as sunscreen sticks!
Summary of Scents That Fish Hate
| Scents Fish Hate | |
|---|---|
| #1 | Natural Human Oils |
| #2 | Nicotine |
| #3 | Petroleum Distillates |
| #4 | Scented Soaps |
| #5 | Bug spray |
| #6 | Sunscreen |
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