The pleasure boats are gone and the water is now all yours. But don't venture out for your next winter fishing trip without following these tips:
● Wear layers of clothing - preferably synthetic or wool - but never cotton, it's a poor insulator when wet.
● Bring along high-energy foods such as granola bars and warm drinks. It's important to keep hydrated in winter's dry air. Stay away from alcohol, which dilates blood vessels and cools your body's core.
● Cold water drains energy and body heat rapidly. If you fall overboard, a life jacket can give you the time you need to pull yourself back in the boat before the effects of hypothermia set in. Vest styles can provide warmth both in and out of the water while automatically inflating life jackets allow great freedom of movement and fit over bulky winter clothing. Also, make sure you have a method to get back in the boat, such as a built-in boarding ladder or a short length of rope, (with loops for footholds), that is firmly attached to a cleat or other fixed object.
● When you're done fishing and before you leave the launch ramp, trim the outboard motor all the way down, and turn the engine over for a just a second to pump out any water that may still be inside the motor. Remove any mud or plant debris from the boat or equipment and thoroughly drain livewells or anywhere else water may have pooled to stop the spread of invasive species.
And if the weather's not cooperating and you want to enjoy some fishing in the comfort of your home, don't forget to watch the BoatUS ANGLER sponsored "Hook 'n Look" TV show with Kim Stricker. The first show of the 4th season premiers December 27th.
BoatUS ANGLER
Photo: Dennis Anderson, Star Tribune
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