I guess I’m still waiting for winter to start, so it can end and we can enter prime spring fishing season. As others are, I’ve been tracking the DNR announcements of trout stocking with anticipation. I have been out to the streams to see if I can get the “early luck” going. So far so good! My heartfelt thanks to Rick Loose and the trout pen team for their efforts in raising the trout. There are no small fish in our home waters!
I was very encouraged by the show of hands at our last meeting of those who have been fishing this year. I feel very optimistic about our prospects of meeting our May deadline for everyone to fish at least once. (Tell me if I’m too goal oriented …actually you don’t have to tell me, I know.)
I’m still sifting through the various almanacs and old sayings to figure out whether the milder winter will lead to a good or bad spring. Doesn’t really matter: whatever it is, it is. I’ll voyage to the stream either way, and mow the lawn a lot either way.
March is the transition month. The cold air gradually warms up, streams warm up, and flies start hatching. The last round of fly fishing shows and open houses at our local fly shops is happening, so it’s time to stock up on the season’s supplies and tools. I’ll admit that I’m a sucker for some of those strange gadgets that are displayed. This year, I bought a telescopic fly retriever that extends to 9 feet long to get flies out of trees. Looks like I can also use it as a back scratcher and golf ball retriever, very versatile. I bet we could have some interesting discussions on items you have seen or bought in the past.
It’s also time to “wind up” the winter tying activities. If you were fortunate enough to attend our “Tie One On” event on February 22, you had a great time in tying, fellowship, and pizza! Many thanks to Don Fine and Jon Thames for leading us.
Now is the time to start getting the club outings on the calendar to start mapping out our spring. I know everyone has their favorite streams, so if you want to suggest a date and a place, we’ll put it on the calendar for members no sign up. Of course, you may want to take us to your second favorite place. Please let me know, we’ll help do the behind-the-scenes work.
As always, if you have any suggestions, comments, or any input, let us know — and you’re welcome to come to our board meetings on the 4th Wednesday of each month. It’s your club!
See you soon, happy fishing!
Andy Mekelburg
Club President