WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
April 13, 2006

The Northland fills with Spring life each and every day. The recent summer-like temperatures have put Spring in fast forward and the best part is the amount of open water we have. Most of the area lakes are looking like they will be completely open nearly 10 days to two weeks early.

Early ice-out conditions give us a jump on the fishing season, but more importantly it will give those fish a chance to get the annual spawn completed and get those fish hungry by opening day.

With the opening day only 27 days away, no better time then now to start preparing. What a great chance to get all those bugs worked out before the May 13, 2006 opening day. Each year on opening day I see numbers of frustrated anglers with numerous problems that typically can be avoided with very little preparation for the big day. Here is a list of tips that will help eliminate those common frustrations:

• Are those boat batteries fully charged? Typically a number of batteries lose life after the long winter. I would recommend putting an extra charge on them.
• Are the trailer bearings greased?
• Did you refill the lower unit oil? Check the lower unit for cracks.
• Are the trailer lights working?
• Is the right size towing ball on your vehicle?
• Do you have the proper number of life jackets and throw in the boat?
• Did you check the new regulations for the lake you intend to fish?
• Are your accessories working in the boat? A number of times a blown fuse will keep anglers at shore on opening weekend.
• Last but not least, do you have the plug in?

Checking these things should help get you onto the water and into those fish this upcoming opener.

As you get the boat and trailer dialed in for opener, one typically thinks about that trophy fish that they are going to catch. Each year it suprises me how many people do everything but change that fishing line. To me it would be like going to a tennis match without a tennis racket. New line is key and this year, like every other, I would recommend setting those reels up with Stren Magnathin or the new Gamma line. If you're looking at the Stren, I would recommend the 8 lb. If you're looking at the Gamma, try the 4 or 6 lb. Without good line, one has put the upper hand with the fish. I would hate to see that fish of a lifetime break that old line, but it happens each year.

With the excitement building daily, the next 27 days might seem long, but taking the time to prepare your equipment will help pass that time much quicker.

The Walleyes are going to be hungry, I hope your getting ready!

Sean Colter
www.seancolter.com
member of the NMLOG's