While I am already on the board with a 2023 bass, I am still finishing up my pre-season prep for another year of chasing some fish. As a writer, I have long been a fan of alliteration, so let’s pull out that tried and true technique for todays’ post.

Pre-season prep this year consists of half a dozen “Rs” as follows:

Recharge

This aspect should have started sooner than it did and involves getting in some semblance of shape. Most of my fishing involves either hiking, biking, or rowing so a bit of physical fitness is in order. A handful of hikes along The Canal provides not only exercise but also a chance to do a little scouting for potential destinations.

Research 

 I am not a winter angler, so my off season is spent exploring in ways other than casting. My lifetime Bassmaster and InFisherman subscriptions continue to pay dividends while the internet, social media, and Google Maps are treasure troves of information (and misinformation if you are not careful). The QCCA Outdoor Show is also an annual stop to take in a couple seminars and pick up a tip or two from local organizations.

Restock/Renew

Between Christmas, Father’s Day, and a birthday, I usually acquire a gift card or two from some major tackle retailers. In addition, I like to make a few winter stops at local shops during my previously noted scouting missions. The QCCA Outdoor Show also featured a few bargains that I could not pass up. And don’t forget to renew that fishing license.

Respool

A new year means it is time for new line as the reels are often low due to frequent retying and line checks during the previous year. As it has been for most of the last thirty-five years, Trilene monofilament is the line of choice in either ten- or twelve-pound test for my bass fishing.

Repair

Over the years, a collection of rods and reels have taken a beating and broke down. Being a frugal pack rat, I have kept them around with thoughts of getting them fixed. Two local tackle shops have been employed to fix three damaged rods and five broken down reels. The rods should be no problem but a couple of the reels are rather ancient (dating back to the 90s), so still awaiting a verdict on those being salvageable. Sure would be cool to get at least one of them back in the lineup for old times’ sake.

Review

Being a stat guy and longtime keeper of a log, I like to look at the numbers to see if I am close to any milestones. Perhaps it is Bass #100 from a remote strip pit or maybe targeting a body of water that needs a Top 5 boost. Whatever the case, a stroll through the databases, spreadsheets, and record book aid in developing a plan for the new year.

While I feel good about the status of the pre-season prep, I have only been able to translate the work into one bass this year. But spring has sprung and sooner or later those water temps will be on the rise along with the bass activity level. Stay tuned and talk to you later. Troy