Let’s face it, time is waning for most who enjoy the outdoors.
Some folks just don’t like the cold.
Boaters have even started to put away the angst.
Simply put, that time of year is starting to kick in and opportunities are becoming more limited.
That’s why most weekend warriors simply winterize their vessels and stand by while they wait for that early spring warmup.
If you do still plan on spending time on the water, make sure you take necessary precautions with you. There are few things worse than being bundled up for freezing air and falling in cold water.
The hunting community, however, loves the cold, because deer are at their most active this time of year – some being run by hounds and others running after a mate.
But for the shrinking numbers of diehard anglers, having fewer options for the same results actually is a blessing.
During the coldest part of the year, there’s not as much confusion at the area’s limited number of public ramps. Fewer folks dropping baits in your favorite spots is another bonus. And there’s the fact that remaining saltwater species, and resident freshwater ones, still love to eat.
All reasons why many folks just won’t put the tackle on the shelf.
Saltwater action can continue to be hot even if the temperature isn’t.
Swordfish, southerly-migrating bluefin tuna, tilefish, tautog, flounder and sea bass can be found along the coast, coupled with puppy drum, speckled trout and striped bass inshore – all providing the things needed to fuel that urge for a tug on the other end of the line.
Freshwater locations are a little different for one basic reason – when you think you are fishing slowly, slow down. Then rethink that and slow down some more.
Fish like largemouth bass, crappie, chain pickerel, catfish and shellcracker tend to feed at a much slower pace when the water gets super cold.
The good thing is, when you get a few late February or early March days that are sunny and slightly warmer than it has been, these species will turn on in what can almost be described as a feeding frenzy.
It won’t be like spring, but if you find a school of something hungry, the action can be good.
So don’t fret the cold. There are plenty of things you can do in preparation for shorts and flip flop weather.
Whatever you do, don’t forget the upcoming Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show (we’ll have plenty more on that in the next few weeks).
And we’re going to bring you several more ideas to keep that fishing or boating interest peaked.
So if you don’t hunt, the boat is stocked away and it’s too cold to hit the pond, at least you’ll have some things to do.
To read more of my work, go to: leetolliveroutdoors.com
