This is the time of year for renewal. It's a new year and what better time to
make some real new year resolutions - ones that will better your fishing output for
the coming season and/or make you a better fisherman in general. I made this list
years ago but find it still relevant and a good thing to look back at during this
time of year.
Since my resolutions never really change from year to year, the real question is if I
adhered to them. If I didn't, then I resolve to this year. You may share some of these
same resolutions.
1. Share More
Consider yourself a halfway
decent fisherman? Then, by all means, share your knowledge and experience with those
who want to know. Make yourself available and approachable and take a child fishing
if you can. The more people we have loving this sport as we do, the stronger we all
become.
2. Get More Involved
Keep track of proposed
recreational fishing restrictions and lend your support to those fighting the good
fight. The lack of knowledge and concern by the recreational fisherman is the
greatest weapon used by both environmentalists and animal rights activists.
3. Care For Thy Equipment Better
If you leave your gear
sitting idle until spring approaches, don't be upset when it fails at the most critical
time. Make a resolution to replace the line, clean and oil the reel, and organize
your tackle box. The time you take now will pay big dividends come summer.
4. Keep Better Records
Always a tough one, but one
that I can proudly say I've been able to handle well recently. By keeping records of
your catch and the conditions prevalent at the time, you not only will find some
beneficial patterns to your success, but you will be able to set some goals and add
to the fun.
5. Be More Positive
Approach every fishing trip
with the same enthusiasm as you did when you were a kid. Rememeber when you didn't
even think about "if" you would catch fish, but only wondered what kind or how many?
None of us ever know when it may be our last fishing trip. Enjoy each trip like it was.
6. Fish More
Did you know that there
are 8,760 hours in a year? Now ask yourself how many hours you logged fishing last
year. Now, calculate the percentage of time spent fishing. Show your wife the figure
as it will be undoubtedly low. Lastly, make a resolution to increase the percentage
this year.
7. Journey A Bit Farther
Spend more time looking around
and trying to fish those seldom touched out-of-the-way spots where anglers are few
and fish are...
8. Care More
I know of no good fisherman
who litters, defaces, or harms the area they fish in. However, how many of us can say
that we picked up someone else's trash or took part in a "clean-up" day? Most of us
can do more to better protect our precious resources.
9. Swallow The Pride
Any self-respecting
fisherman thinks they are pretty good. However, if you're like me,
you get beat at least a few times a year by someone who is just a wee bit better. Swallow
the pride and ask the individual what they're using, how they're using it, etc. If
they don't tell you, shame on them. If you don't ask, shame on you - you just blew
an opportunity to become an even better fisherman than last year.
10. Wake Up Earlier
Some of the best fishing
is done the first few hours the sun rises. However, it takes a lot of discipline to
have the boat and gear ready to roll at the first glimmer of sunlight.
|