Go Time!

We dodged a bullet here in central Iowa with the area mostly receiving rain and not the large amounts of snow once predicted.  Over the weekend, we ended up with about an inch and a half of rain around Des Moines, which should add some much needed water to the local lakes, ponds, and rivers.  With our forecasts looking very favorable for ice formation, it appears like we might be able to fish some of our smaller bodies of water this weekend around central Iowa.  For those heading out, be sure to exercise caution and try to keep dry!  I know I made use of this weekend by getting the rest of my gear organized, putting fresh line on my reels, and making sure everything is ready for the weekend.

(First fish from last season; small little guy isn't he!)

One tradition I started many years ago was to take a picture of the first fish I caught each ice season.  It's fun to look back at the different fish and it helps rekindle fond memories of ice seasons gone by. In the past, I didn't take the time to photograph fish or scenery while I was out fishing, however, over the past few years I have made the time and am very thankful for doing so.  The next time you are out fishing, make the time to take some photos of your catches, the beauty surrounding you, and/or you and the people fishing with you while on the ice.  You will be glad you did so, trust me!

Finally, with the season kicking off this weekend I won't have as much time to write entries as I have these past two months.  My plan is to continue writing something up for Mondays which will include product reviews, fishing reports, and lessons learned that weekend.  I have a bunch of fantastic ice gear, much of which is new to the market this year, which I will continue to highlight once each month.  So stay tuned, the good stuff is just beginning!