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Wollitz: Weather getting better, so be prepared to fish
The calendar points toward the arrival of spring in just two weeks and the weather forecasts are on an improving trend.
For those who have spent too many winter days cooped up in their houses far from the lakes and rivers where we love to fish, spring can’t come too soon. We’re finally seeing the opportunity to scratch the irresistible itch to fish.
Early season fishing trips are among the most rewarding days on the water. Time away from our sport only makes the days when we can finally return to where we’d rather be all the more special.
Who can blame us for bubbling with anticipation about the fun days we know are coming soon?
First things first, of course, and that means be sure you have your 2019 fishing license before you make your first cast of the season. That’s not the end of the prep, however.
Before we hitch up the boat and drive to the lake, smart fishers make sure everything is ship shape. The sun may be shining when we finally get back in action, but cold water and balky equipment can turn the season’s debut into a disaster.
A couple of hours of maintenance now can reduce the risks of equipment failure out on the water.
Double-check the boat’s batteries to make sure they are ready for the season. Nothing puts a damper on the start of the fishing day faster than a cranking battery that won’t light up the starter or a trolling motor battery that won’t turn the propeller.
Make sure your outboard motor’s spark plugs and gasoline filters are clean and ready for service. It’s a good idea to slap a water cuff on the outboard and run it in your driveway to be confident it will start at the boat ramp – and every time you turn the key out on the lake.
If your boat has a horn, make sure it still works after the long winter in storage. For a backup signal, stow a whistle or air horn where you can retrieve it if necessary. Be sure, too, that you have a visual signal flag to wave in case of emergency or break down.
Know where you’ll be going when you hit the lake the first trip. Check charts to learn the safe in and out passage for the fishing holes you plan to visit. Keep an eye on the sonar to watch for hazards under the surface.
It’s also a good idea to pack a little extra food and water for your early spring fishing trips, even if you don’t plan to fish past meal times. Breakdowns are never fun, but they can be dangerous if it turns out you are stranded on the lake after dark on a cold night.
Be extra prepared during your early spring trips. Pack a bag with extra sweatshirts, pants, jackets, hats and blankets. Don’t forget the rain suit and other foul weather gear.
Personal flotation devices are the most important gear on the boat. Make certain they are in good condition and always carry one for every person on your boat. Young children must wear their PFDs on the boat and that’s a good idea for adults, too, especially when the water is still cold in the spring.
Long months in cold buildings also can have an adverse effect on the fittings and water hoses of the boat. Before you shove away from the dock, check to make sure the plumbing of the boat is not leaking.
And last, but not least, do make sure the plug is in the transom before you back down the launch ramp.