Spring is in the Air!

It's time to take stock of your gear, and get ready for spring. Don't skip these essential steps.
Leo And Ron.jpg

It's now time to look forward to things blossoming, trees growing leaves, fish moving shallow to spawn, and getting back out on the water.

Before I even think about going fishing I get things ready for the season. First I pull out all of my stuff and do an inventory, from rods to baits to even clothing for the different weather changes. Some of the things I do to prepare are:

1. Check Your Rod & Reels

rods-reels

I check all my rods, reels, and line and I make sure to look over all my rods for any guides missing or wrap coming off, then I take my reels apart and grease them up so there is no sand or dust in the gears and then I move onto the line.

2. check your Fishing Lines

fishing-lines

When it comes to fishing lines nowadays, there are so many superb lines out there that can last for years on your reel. I use Suffix 832 braid and love it, it has no memory so there is no coil when it comes off the reel, it casts a long way and is very strong. I change my line if it changes colour from the sun or from the water and I also look for frays in the line as well.

3. Clean out your Tackle Box

tackle-box

I take a look in my tackle box next. I am looking for rusty hooks first and then I start to organize for species so I can put walleye tackle in one tray and bass tackle in another and so on.

4. dust off those fishing duds

what-to-wear

Clothing is actually quite important but this seems to be something a lot of people overlook. It is very important to have proper clothing when heading out fishing, right from hats to rain suits to the proper shirts. When it comes to the sun in this day and age I do not fool around because when you’re on the water as long as I am during the fishing season, you want to be protected and comfortable.

hats

  • I start with a good hat that can breathe
  • Move down to a buff (a cloth over your face)
  • A long-sleeve microfiber shirt that is breathable
  • Either cotton pants or longer shorts that cover the knee
  • I top it all off with sunblock applied 3 to 4 times a day.

buff

Being this well-prepared might sound a little much but when I am comfortable, I concentrate more, and when I concentrate I catch more fish! So before your buddy says let’s go fishing this spring and summer, be prepared and you will have a way better experience and catch more fish!

About Ron James

Ron has been fishing for over 35 years. He started fishing when he was just a youngster with his father Bill James (God rest his soul). He moved onto tournament fishing as his passion grew. With numerous wins and top finishes, the next step had to be taken. He met Leo, and the unstoppable force of Fish TV "is the best thing that has happened.

Recommended Articles

Why Anglers Are Falling for Golden Lake in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley

From trophy bass to beachside cottages, Golden Lake blends serious fishing with relaxed cottage life.

Jack's Lake Lodge

The Musky Hunter visits the Kawarthas in hopes of landing a trophy!

5 Big Water Ontario Fishing Locations

Where to go big water fishing in Ontario.

The Right Tool for the Job

Check out this guide to gear up like a pro.

Birchland Cottages: Modern comfort with classic Northern Ontario charm

This Clear Lake gem is a great for kids, and the fishing action is non-stop.

Top Flies for Northern Pike

Try These Go-to Flies and Tips on Your Next Trip

Cast Into the Heart of a Walleye Paradise

Experience world-class angling and remote island luxury at the only resort on the pristine waters of Route Lake.

Fly Fishing The Nipigon River: What To Bring

These tips will make your trip to these fabled Ontario waters more enjoyable.

Top 8 Places to Ice Fish in Ontario

Ice fishing in Ontario offers diverse catches in serene winter settings.

Ontario Carp Championship

Is Ontario the Carp fishing capital of the world?

Eating Northern Pike

The Best Recipe to Cook This Fish

Four Fantastic Ontario Musky Waters

Discover 4 hotspots that any musky angler must add to their bucket list.

3 Great Ontario Walleye Destinations

Karl of Extreme Angler recommends must do walleye lakes in Ontario.

Discover Northern Pike Fishing at Mar Mac Lodge

Fly into adventure and experience non-stop fishing action on Esnagi Lake in Algoma Country.

Top 10 Fly Patterns for Brook Trout

Learn Brook Trout Fly Pattern Choices for Surface Fly Fishing

Catching Ontario Walleye

Pro Tips for Bait and Walley Presentations

Cast Away the Ordinary

Your Ultimate Fly-In, Boat-In, or Drive-In Fishing Adventure in Superior Country.

Nordic Point Lodge

Epic Fishing & Luxury in Ontario's Sunset Country

Small Lakes That Fish Big, Really Big Bass

Granary Lake Retreat is one of Ontario’s hidden gems.

Fish on a Fly

Pike and Walleye Fishing on Esnagi Lake