May 2011

National Fishing and Boating Week is June 4-12. It coincides with free fishing days for most states. On those days, anyone can fish… without a license/permit.  That’s right, FREE.

Fishing can be frustrating, that’s part of the game.  But I think a lot of frustration among anglers comes when we experience failure coming from something that easily could have been prevented.  If we don’t wind fresh monofilament on our spools and the line breaks on a good fish, we get frustrated.

I’m very fortunate to have a job (with Field & Stream magazine) that allows me to travel to different waters, and catch many species of fish. But, like most anglers, I have a “bucket-list” of fish I’d still like to catch.

Here in north central Oklahoma, this is Cowboy Country. Not just because of the influence of the university, but also in history. In fact, when I am not scribbling thoughts on paper, I actually work along side Pistol Pete’s great grandson.

If someone told you there were simple things you could do to keep fish from dying and protect our waters, you’d want to know more, right?

A long time ago Mark Twain said, “common sense ain’t all that common.” Since this upcoming week is National Safe Boating Week – May 21 – 27, 2011 – those words ring loud and true.

When people find out what I do for a living (I’m a fishing writer), I often hear things like: “Oh, that sounds fun… I’ve always wanted to take up fishing, but I don’t know where to go.

Okay, I think I have worked past my boat trailer light issues… I am ready to do some boat shopping.

Largemouths are often thought of as the crème de la crème of the bass species.  We often get a lot of questions about the best ways to spot and lure these beauties.

Sure, when you wake up the morning of a planned fishing excursion, you’ll check the local news to get a handle on the day’s weather – but that’s not the only forecast you’ll want to review.