It’s Tournament Time!

Winneconne Wisconsin 4/27/02: ‘Twas the night before my first bass tournament of the season, and what to my wondering eyes does appear… but the potential of up to two inches of SNOW – oh dear (or other four-letter words!).

Yes sports fans, it’s tournament time! And early season tournaments in the upper Midwest bring a variety of weather conditions… including snow! While I should probably have been singing “I’m dreaming of a white tournament,” I was preparing myself for the day ahead – trying to figure out the best way to get the big (and small) mouths into the boat.

Yet it’s an exciting time, because it is tournament time – usually one of the first signs of spring “up north.” Time to get out, dust off the fishing tackle and enjoy the re-birth of nature with some healthy competition – I wouldn’t miss it for the world, even though I wish mother nature would be more cooperative (or at least less white)!

You don’t have to be a competitive angler to enjoy this time of year. Pre-spawn spring fishing can be some of the best of the year… the fish are becoming more active, getting over their winter doldrums. As the water creeps up into the 60- degree range, their body clocks begin to tick for the spawn. They get ready for the spawn by feeding on small baitfish, crawfish, etc. Downsizing your baits and s-l-o-w-I-n-g your presentation down can pay dividends.

This is also a great time to take some kids along to enjoy the day. There is a lot going on this time of year (when it’s not cold and snowing!). Trees are beginning to bloom, the animals and birds are more active. It’s a great time to be outside enjoying nature and all its wonders.

So take some time out for yourself and enjoy the spring. If the weather cooperates, it’s a great time of the year – whether on or off the water!

-Jeff Morton

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