BY STEVE ZELCK
So here we are already in February – January flew by even with some pretty cold weather, one blizzard and even a day that hit fifty degrees. This is the time of year you could get lost in the winter doldrums, as boring as it gets for most of us. Hunting season is over and fishing season seems like it’s a distant memory or too far away to think about. Or is it?
I’m still trying to recoup from a year with more days on the water that I can remember ever having, even as a kid. The days add up fast when you split time between two boats; one for lobstering and the other for chasing tuna. If it’s not the sun, it’s the weather beating down on you that really takes its toll after so many days on the water.
Recently, I’ve been trying out the new line of StormR gear we have in the store. I am going to tell you the bibs and gloves performed amazingly in the cold. I only wore one other layer and was quite comfortable all day. I don’t endorse a lot of products but this one looks like a winner based on its performance so far; I’ll keep you posted.
So on the fishing front – I’ll be honest, I haven’t had much to talk about. Same old reports of smelt here and there and the occasional customer stopping in for some cod gear. It’s that time of year when we talk about the good years and hope this one will be one of them. I tell people not to get too comfortable. March is only a month away and it will be on again.
Take the time now you need to be ready when spring arrives. It’s a good time to go over your equipment. Did you wash down all of your reels at the end of the season? Did you get all of the salt and sand off inside and out? Did you add fresh lube and back your drags all the way off? What about that old sun damaged mono and braid? Did you strip it off?
I cringe when guys bring me a nice reel in the spring that’s still caked with sand inside and out. They want fresh line but can’t understand why the reel doesn’t work or sound right. Don’t be that guy or gal. If you need help or want to get spooled up before the rush, come on in and we will take good care of you. Stay safe and keep warm.
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