Memorial Day Weekend!
The much-anticipated Memorial Day Weekend is almost here. And, if you are not sure where to go boating and fishing, check out our Places to Boat and Fish Map. Here are a few reminders for enjoying the summer kickoff.
1) Between the power-fishing glitter bass boats, the lounging pontoons boats, the jet skis and kayaks, the boat traffic in some places may seem almost parade-like with a celebration of watercrafts. Be prepared to share the water.
2) This may be the first weekend many have put the boat on water. Be sure your boat registration is up to date and all your safety equipment present and in good condition.
3) If you do not happen to be fishing with Mom, I’ll remind you to keep hydrated (water is still the best) and wear sunscreen. Oh, and you may see my polar white legs this weekend so you’ll probably need your sunglasses too.
4) Careful with a fire and make sure it is totally out at the end of evening. Or if conditions are dry and windy, just skip the fire completely. Much of the country is still experiencing a drought.
5) Are you sure you remembered how to assemble the tent? A dry run might be worthwhile. Also when camping, creature comforts often seem to be lacking. It is easy to get too hot, too cold, too wet… so dress appropriately. And bring backup dry clothes.
6) Is there anything tastier than a shore lunch of fresh fish? Has it has been a while since you have cleaned a fish? Make sure you and the knife are not rusty.
7) Pick up after yourself and remember to Tread Lightly! “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints,” is a great motto outside one botanical garden. We have a beautiful country with amazing recreational areas. However, I often return to the truck with litter discovered on our outings.
May 27th also is South Carolina and Pennsylvania’s Free Fishing Day. The timing of other states’ Free Fishing Days varies around the country. And speaking of “free,” let us take a quiet minute while enjoying the pleasures of boating and fishing, to remember that Memorial Day is not just a kick off of summer but a day for remembering the men and women who gave their lives in service of this great country.
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Andy Whitcomb
Andy is an outdoor writer (http://www.justkeepreeling.com/) and stressed-out Dad has contributed over 380 blogs to takemefishing.org since 2011. Born in Florida, but raised on banks of Oklahoma farm ponds, he now chases pike, smallmouth bass, and steelhead in Pennsylvania. After earning a B.S. in Zoology from OSU, he worked in fish hatcheries and as a fisheries research technician at OSU, Iowa State, and Michigan State.