Going Fishing

Going Fishing is a racing strategy where a driver intentionally backs off from the car ahead, creating space with plans to catch up later when conditions are more favorable.

In motorsport coaching scenarios, instructors often tell drivers to "go fishing" when they're faster than the vehicle in front but need to maintain a strategic distance. This technique allows drivers to study the competitor's lines and weaknesses without pressuring them immediately, similar to how an angler patiently waits before reeling in a catch.

The "catch and release" approach of going fishing helps drivers conserve energy, reduce tire wear, and plan overtaking maneuvers more effectively. It's particularly useful in endurance racing or when a driver needs to time their attack perfectly to execute a clean pass without compromising their race position.