JACK WOLLITZ Schooling will enhance fishing

Anybody who spends even a modest amount of time on the water will see people engaged in fishing situations that border on the ridiculous.
Mind you, I'm not saying the people themselves are ridiculous. It's just that they go about their fishing in ways that are baffling. As a result, they enjoy only occasional success.
Fishing is not an easy game, especially in the 21st Century in heavily developed urban areas on high-pressure waters. Experienced anglers take for granted tactics that neophytes - and those who simply are too stubborn to learn - fail to recognize as being necessary to get fish on their hooks.
But gaining that experience can be a painfully difficult process unless beginning anglers can get pointed in the right direction quickly. One way to jump start your way to fishing success is to attend "school" and one of the better choices is the traveling series of two-day CITGO BASSMASTER University seminars.
Important insights
Operated by B.A.S.S., the Bassmaster classes provide important insights that can benefit all anglers regardless of their preferred species and level of experience.
Bassmaster University classes feature presentations by professional anglers. The schedule for 2003 includes a stop in Cleveland March 15 and 16. The sessions will be at the Cleveland Airport Marriott and instructors will include 2002 CITGO BASS Masters Classic champion Jay Yelas, former champs Woo Daves and Dion Hibdon, and Frank Scalish of Cleveland, Rich Tauber and Mike Del Visco.
While the tips and tactics they share will be focused on bass, the Bassmaster University "professors" will deliver insights about the underwater world and all the creatures that live there. That means even if you prefer fishing for crappies or walleyes, you can gain knowledge about predator-prey relationships and how to use that information to catch more fish. The cost is $99. For registration information, call (866) 732-2277 or check the Internet at www.bassmaster.com.
In the meantime, here are a few tips for those who want to begin thinking about ways to improve their luck on the water.
Minimum of hardware
Don't overwhelm the fish. Use the minimum of hardware at the terminal end of your line. Learn to tie reliable knots and fasten hooks directly to the line instead of using snaps and swivels.
Select baits that are the right size for your intended species. If you are going for bluegills and crappies, use small minnows, two or three larvae or a small piece of worm instead of dangling an entire nightcrawler on the hook.
Know how deep the water is where you are fishing and set your bait so it hangs just off the bottom. I often see anglers whose baits are only a foot below the surface in 10 feet of water or laying on the bottom in shallower areas. The objective is to get the bait in a natural-looking position at the fishes‚ eye level or just above it.
And by all means, consider investing in good education and asking experienced anglers to show you the ropes. It will be worth the money.
jwwollitz@aol.com