After a long winter, Bud is ready to hit the lakes
Alright! It is finally time to go fishing. We waited all winter for decent, warmer weather to get here. We most likely attended several boat shows and fishing expos, trying to occupy our time while anxiously awaiting a chance to get outdoors and cast a line into the water, hoping the fish have missed us as much as we have missed them.
If you are like me, you also spent a large portion of your time reading about all the new innovations being introduced to help you enjoy your time fishing. Hopefully, they help you land a bunch of fish for several meals and maybe even that long-awaited trophy for the wall.
We went through our fishing tackle and made changes in what needed repaired, replaced, or just something to try to improve your odds. Many things will possibly help you. Many things will not, but we just naturally have to experiment and see what does and does not work.
Many anglers see the professionals on television and videos catch those monster bass and big crappie or bluegills by the boat load. Whatever they say they were using, we run right out and spend our hard-earned money on it. But oftentimes, we will not enjoy the same success they appear to have on a regular basis.
You have to realize the average angler does not have the opportunity to fish the same places or have the option of hiring guides to assist you. Just having fun and making memories with your family and friends should be the main objective.
I even enjoy getting myself and my equipment prepared for the upcoming fishing season. Sure, it takes a lot of effort and time to get everything ready. I know several anglers who exert absolutely no effort in checking the condition of their fishing equipment. If and when they are fortunate enough to hook into a trophy fish, their equipment malfunctions and they are aggravated. It is their own fault. They should have checked and made repairs or replacements in advance.
I know I might go overboard, but you can never be over-prepared. During the off season of fishing, I went through all my fishing tackle and made adjustments. All my fishing rods have been cleaned and the rod guides have been inspected for bends or chips. My fishing line is replaced to start out new every year.
I have inspected every single piece of fishing lure I own. If they need new hooks or resharpened hooks, they get it. All my crankbaits and artificial lures are inspected. If they need new hooks or resharpened, they get it. All my fishing reels have been cleaned and lubricated and are ready to go. If any hooks are rusted, they either get cleaned and resharpened or they get replaced.
Sure, it takes some time. If you do it during the winter months, it helps you pass the time until fishing season arrives. Then, you are truly ready to hit the water.
If you own a boat, you need to inspect everything there also. Make sure your batteries are charged up. Make sure your electronics are working properly, especially your bilge pumps and aerator pumps in your live wells. If you have running lights, inspect those also.
Make sure your registration numbers are proper and all your launching permits are valid. Ensure any required safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and PFDs, are on board. And don't neglect your trailer. Check your lights, your coupler, your safety chains. tire pressures, your wheel bearings.
It may sound like overkill, but you don't want to experience any issues when you are heading for the water.
Also, don’t forget to update your fishing license. You have waited all this time for the opportunity to go fishing, and the time has finally arrived. Get out there and enjoy it! Catch your limit of fish to eat and make plans to go again! See ya on the water!