General Fishing Info

Biwa lake is divided in 2 parts, South Lake (Nanko) and North Lake (Hokko). This division happen at the "Biwakohashi", the big bridge that connect Kusatsu to Moriyama.

 

The environment of the "2 lakes" is very different. South lake is shallower with an average depth of about 4 mt, generally soft bottom with sparse rocky areas, heavy weed in summer, high fishing pressure whole year, big fish tend to come in during pre spawn season. Most of the fishing is concentrated in what locals call "Oroshimo" area, a huge portion of the lake with a very irregular bottom.

 

On the other hand North Lake is deeper, average fishing depths are between 8 and 14m, rocky bottom, very clear water, less weed in summer, with many fresh water streams that dive into the lake and a general slight lower fishing pressure.

Even if it's possible to catch fish all around the year, for my personal experience best season to fishing in Biwa Lake is between mid March to December. In March big fish starts to get closer to bedding area in search of good spot were to spawn and it's common to catch over 3kgs fish. At this time fishing is very slow, it really test your patience and skills. Main approach is "bottom jerk" with soft lure, also big bait game is recommended!

 

This time of the year is also suggested for sightseein since it's sakura bloom time around end of March and beginning of April, there are quire few beautiful temple around Otsu and sorrounding areas.


Rainy season starts around beginning of June for about 2 or 3 weeks with frequent heavy rain during the day. Going on to July and August these are the hottest months of the year with temperature that easily reach over 35°c (95°Farenheit) with high humidity level. Best fishing hours are early morning and late in the afternoon when the sun goes down.

September to October is probably considered the easiest season. At this time smaller fish becomes increidbly active and in a day is common to catch over 20/30 fish around 20/35cm if in the right spot. November big fish starts to roam again in search for food before the winter season, here there are good chance to catch big ones! Beside the fishing it's also a beautiful time to admire incredible colors all around the lake due to autumn leaf.