Nothing brings the feeling of a fresh slate like the change of the calendar year. For me this is especially true as the new year also means it's time to get out of the tree stand and back onto the deck of my boat to get ready for the upcoming tournament season.
Most people set resolutions with things they want to change, stop, or do more of. I prefer to set goals with things I would like to achieve and set a plan on how to reach those goals. For me I have set goals to be more organized, get in better shape and strengthen my faith. These are great universal goals, but I know each of these will also make me a better competitive bass fisherman.
I make more specific goals as well. Most years I hope to start by winning the Bassmaster Classic, but this year the goal is more about learning about the 2015 GEICO Bassmaster Classic. I will be working at the Classic and spending time with the crowds at the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo with the bass fishing fans and spectators.
Instead of the fishing, I plan to pay more attention to what goes on behind the scenes and the nuances of the event. It's been a while since I've had the opportunity to observe the event as a non-competitor, and I think I can learn a lot. I will be paying close attention to how anglers maintain or lose their focus during the Classic. I hope to observe wisely and apply what I learn in future Classic competitions.
Another goal I have for 2015 is to learn more about the industry. I think over the past few years I haven't broadened my fishing techniques as much as I could have. This year I want to make sure I continually educate myself with new techniques, new products, and apply them on the water. Over the past few years we've seen a bunch of new techniques really take off, and I haven't been as apt to join the change. I will continue to focus on my strengths – shallow water cranking, flipping and power fishing – but I will also venture outside of my comfort zone more often when the opportunity presents itself.
The trade shows over the next few weeks are a great way for me to gain more knowledge on products and techniques. They are also a great opportunity for me to meet and better connect with the customers that drive our industry.
The new year is also a great time for me to get a new wave of momentum going. Momentum and confidence are finicky, but they are huge factors in tournament fishing. I think that it is much easier to get the momentum going in the right direction at the beginning of a new season than it is scrambling to put it together mid or late season. For that reason, getting off to a good start is important, but being sure to not have a poor start is even more important. Working on my four main goals of better organization, better physical fitness, continuing to build a strong faith foundation and expanding my fishing knowledge are going to be keys for a solid start to my 2015 season.
Before I wrap this up, I wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year. May your year be blessed with big fish, lots of time with your loved ones and good health. Here's to 2015 and making it the best year yet.