Sound and Vibration

Yes, fish have ears. They are also equipped with specialized nervous systems, centred around the lateral line, which effectively pick up vibrations.

Vibration and sound are usually the first clues fish receive when sensing their environment. Fish have excellent close-up vision, but are generally quite nearsighted. Vibration is especially important in environments where visibility is poor. Fish in muddy or very cloudy (turbid) water may use sound and vibration almost entirely to locate prey.

Sound can be an advantage to an angler. A lively minnow struggling against a hook, the thumping vibration of a spinner, and the noisy retrieve of a rattling crank bait all use sound and vibration to draw the attention of the fish. In the natural predator/prey relationship, many species find easy meals by detecting the erratic sounds and vibrations of wounded baitfish.

Vibration is a two-edged sword. The same factors which make that fish notice your vibrating lure mean that an anchor flung overboard or a dropped tackle box scream out your presence to every fish in the area. Once alerted, the fish may cease active feeding, or at least be less predisposed to do so.

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