Chris Lane: It’s different this time

Basically, I’m running and gunning a lot, fishing a pattern rather than a spot or spots.

It’s different this time. I’m really happy with Friday. Of course, how could I not be? I caught more weight (and fish) than I did in two days back in 2008 on this very same lake. Actually, my weight was two and a half times what is was back then.

My bite wasn’t exactly fast and furious, though. It was more like slow and steady. Basically, I’m running and gunning a lot, fishing a pattern rather than a spot or spots. That’s pretty much what I thought I’d end up doing. I’ll give you all the details after Sunday. I’m sure you understand why I can’t do that now.

Everybody’s talking about the weather so I’ll give you my take on it. I don’t think a slight warming trend will have much of an effect on the bass. (I’m assuming they’re still calling for that.) I think they’ll continue doing what they have been doing until after the 2015 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by GoPro is over. But that’s just my opinion. Some of the other guys might see it differently. We’ll know for sure on Sunday, won’t we?

The biggest thing about this year over 2008 is me. It’s not the fish, or the weather, or anything else. I’m not so overwhelmed by all the Classic activities as I was back then and, maybe more importantly, the lake doesn’t intimidate me like it did back then. I’m better able to handle deep and clear water now as well as the cold conditions — for a couple of reasons.

The first one is my head. I’m a different angler these days. The Classic is still a big deal. It’s impossible not to be in awe of everything. It’ll always be that way as far as I’m concerned. But I’ve been here before and I know what to expect. That makes for a big difference.

The other thing is that I’m better prepared physically for the cold. I know more about how to dress now and how important it is to stay warm. I’m not criticizing the clothes I had back in 2008. They were high quality. It’s just that I know things now that I didn’t know back then. Those things help keep me warm.

The bottom line is that I’m feeling positive about this Classic. I’m really looking forward to getting out there on Saturday, fishing a full day, putting my head down and catching some more Lake Hartwell bass — after a hot supper and a good night’s sleep. This will wear a man out.

The other thing I want to say is thanks to all of the fans who were out Friday morning. It was cold. Coming out to see us off was no small thing. We all appreciate it. And we appreciate everyone who came to see us weigh in our fish, too. Fan support is the backbone of this sport. The cheering crowds make it worthwhile.

Finally, thanks to everyone else — volunteers and workers — who are making this happen. We really appreciate your efforts.

Chris Lane’s column appears weekly on Bassmaster.com. You can also find him on Twitter and Facebook or visit his website, www.chrislanefishing.com.