ANGLERS NOTEBOOK

ANGLERS NOTEBOOK

Make sure that proper tension is applied when loading new monofilament on a reel. Too little tension leaves loops and overlapping coils; too much tension packs the line too tightly.

Spinners are best fished upstream and across the current. Cast at a diagonal toward the opposite shore and reel it back at the same rate it's being tumbled by the current.

Always wet your hands before handling a fish, especially a smooth-scaled trout, if you plan to release it. Wet hands remove less of the natural coating that protects a fish's skin.

Most fly fishermen agree that dark flies generally work best in the early spring; lighter flies later in the season.

Suckers are some of the first fish caught in Spring. Although they're bony, sucker flesh is white, firm, flaky and sweet when taken from cold water. Skinned, poached, and deboned, the meat makes an excellent base for fish cakes.

If you're fishing with minnows, gradually replace the water in the bucket with water from the stream or lake when you arrive at your fishing site. Minnows that are subjected to quick temperature changes often die, or if on the end of a hook, become lethargic and impart little action if the temperature change is too rapid.

If your line goes slack after a solid strike, don't relax. Often it indicates that the fish is moving toward you and quick reeling, to regain tension, is in order.

A common trout fishing mistake is to use a bait hook that's too large. Most anglers agree that a size 6 or 8 hook is ideal for catching stream trout. This also goes for most fishing in general - hooks that are too large will prevent catching fish. 

PA Angler Apr 1989