ANGLING TIPS Jack Wollitz

There is something to be said for simplifying your approach to fishing for your favorite species. And now, during the off-season, is as good a time as any to begin the process of getting back to basics.
All anglers - from tournament pros to the occasional dabblers - have more success if they go to the water with confidence that they've got their roots planted in a firm foundation.
Start by sorting through your lure boxes. Eliminate any bait you did not use or which failed to produce in 2003. If it didn't catch a fish for you this year, chances are it won't next year either.
Sort through your rod and reel combinations and decide which need to be upgraded for the upcoming season. Sporting goods stores and catalogs soon will be advertising good deals on new equipment, and you'll save a bunch if you are ready to buy what you need when the sales are announced.
Perhaps the most important step in simplifying your fishing is to review the tactics that proved most productive and make a plan to emphasize your strengths during the next season.
If you love fishing for walleyes with jigs, then set yourself up with the best outfits and most productive lures. For bass fans who seem to do best with soft plastics, arrange your tackle to take advantage of that strength.
I'm not counseling you to forget about being versatile. Sometimes alternatives are necessary when the fish aren't responding. But those who focus on the basics often outfish anglers who have seven rods on the deck and consequently fail to give any of their tactics a fighting chance out on the lake.
jwwollitz@aol.com