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Be aware of hazards when cold-water fishing
While my guess is nobody’s going fishing around Youngstown this weekend, it nonetheless is prudent to begin thinking about the dangers of cold water.
The fishing season will be here fast. Spring weather and warming temperatures are just around the corner. But regardless of how nice a day might seem, the hazards of ultra-cold water will linger for several weeks into the 2011 fishing season.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has good advice for the thousands of us who soon will be wading and boating. Walleyes, crappies and bass are waiting for us, and we’ll be particularly excited about jump-starting our fishing once the weather breaks.
“Recreational boaters and anglers are among those most at risk of sustaining hypothermia due to cold water immersion if they are not dressed properly for the water temperature,” said Pamela Dillon, chief of ODNR’s Division of Watercraft.
She counsels all who are heading to the lakes following the thaw and their return to fishable conditions that proper preparation goes a long way to avoid disaster.
Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Wear layers of clothing made of neoprene, polypropylene, wool, synthetic fleece and GoreTex. Avoid 100 percent cotton and denim.
Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket or vest.
Carry your cell phone in a plastic bag for use in emergencies.
Avoid alcohol as it not only affects judgment, it also alters your blood vessels.
Ensure your boat is not overloaded to avoid capsizing or swamping in rough water. Make sure your anchor is aboard and that it has at least 75 feet of rope for safe anchoring in the event of an emergency.
Be sure to let others know your plans so they can be alert should you become stranded out on the lake.
Above all, use common sense to be sure you are able to safely return for another fishing trip. Common sense is your best insurance against a catastrophe.
Bass seminar planned
Bass angler Mike McCoy has announced four seminars for anglers interested in learning more about how to catch largemouths here in Northeastern Ohio.
The events are set for April 2, May 1, June 25 and Aug. 13 at Tommy’s Old Fashion Jerky and Smokies, 8640 Mentor Ave., Mentor.
McCoy will cover spring tactics on April 2, locating summer bass on May 1, overall bass tips and techniques on June 25 and fall bass strategies on Aug. 13.
For additional information, you can call Tommy’s at 440-255-3994.