Forget winter; think about fishing

We knew this was coming. We should have expected it.

Knowing, even expecting, that cabin fever is coming doesn’t make it any easier to endure. A minor affliction as ailments go, cabin fever nevertheless is a cruel reminder that weather has a great deal to do with how we feel about ourselves.

For a person like me — and you, I’ll bet — even a relatively mild winter like the one we are in now takes a toll on our psyche. Enough is enough when it comes to weekends indoors.

I’m no psychologist, but I’ve got a head-game suggestion for those who have had it up to their eyeballs with winter. And that is this: Forget about winter.

Sure, you say. “Look out the window, Jack. You’re not going fishing today.”

Oh, I beg to differ. Yup. I’m going fishing.

Not in the boat, mind you, but I’m going fishing. Or, more accurately, I’m going to a place where the water is on my mind. A place where I can feel the gritty salt on the soft plastic lure I’m rigging on my hook. A place with the scent of damp soil to tickle my nose and a symphony of spring peepers to entertain my ears.

You there yet?

I’ve got the sun to my left and can feel its warmth as I move into position to pitch my bait. Soon, I know, I’ll feel the tug and I’ll set the hook with a sweep of the rod. All is rewarded with a surge of power on the far end of my line and the water boils in the distance as my fish fights.

Come on, hurry up or you’ll miss this boat!

The eastern sky is a pastel pallet during my favorite part of the fishing day. Dawn is spectacular, regardless of the weather, as though it is served up as a treat for those who survive another night. The cool air is amazing and even better when it’s driven against my face as the boat speeds to morning’s first stop.

Close your eyes and relax. Can you feel the cork handle of your favorite rod? Can you hear the swish of the line rushing through the guides as you fire another cast? Can you see the chartreuse highlights on your favorite crankbait? Can you hear the laughter of the children running on the dock in spite of their parents’ scolding?

Now you’re getting this picture.

Forget about winter. It’s not exactly a figment of our imaginations. We can, however, make it disappear — for a while, anyway — with some creative thinking.

But there’s more to this midwinter mental elixir. Our mind-bending potion for cabin fever has a welcome side effect that benefits all anglers who partake. The plus is in the new inspiration you’ll gain. Fishing is a mind game, without question. Those who believe then can succeed do. Those who think they’ll fail will.

So take the cure today. Forget about winter. Think about the things you love about fishing. If you need a little help, go sort your tackle. Or wiggle the stock in your favorite tackle shop’s rod display. And ride the side effects to positive thinking for the warmer days soon to come.

jwwollitz@aol.com