I don’t know about the rest of the country but from Michigan on down through the Midwest the weather has been perfect for the past couple of weeks. It doesn’t get any better than this as far as fishing is concerned.
The difference after the postseason was like the difference between night and day. The sky has been clear with some cloud cover, just enough to keep the fish active. At the same time there has been just enough wind to put a slight chop on the water.
We fished Michigan. I have to say that the smallmouth bite was unbelievable. There are areas up there that are basically unexplored as far as guys and gals like us are concerned. It’s big fish after big fish. I can guarantee you that most of them have never seen a fishing lure.
If you get the chance go up there. Check things out. I know the wind can be a problem but you can usually motor around to places that are fishable show some common sense. Just be aware that small boats — and your big bass boat is a small boat — can’t handle big waves and that big waves can come up on you in a matter of minutes. I always suggest anglers stay fairly close to shore.
In between the fun fishing I fished a charity event in Traverse City. I always like those things. It gives you a good feeling to know that you’ve helped someone who is less fortunate than you. Those of you who have done that know what I’m talking about. Those of you who haven’t should give it a try. You’ll never have a better day on the water.
After we finished fun fishing I headed down to Lake Norman for the final Southern Open. I sure would like to win this one. It’s my last shot of the year to qualify for the 2015 Bassmaster Classic. In truth, I fish every event to win but I have to admit that some are more important than others.
We’ll talk about Lake Norman some more next week.
Before I go I want to say a word or two about sportsmanship. I heard a lot of stories about some of the guys staying away from the top Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year contenders during the postseason competition. That’s true sportsmanship.
I think we all need to keep in mind what the other guy has going. I remember one time I was in the Top 10 on the last day. I pulled up to my spot to find a couple of young kids fishing it in their local club tournament — the first one of the year.
Sure, I thought my tournament was more important. But, when I thought about it some more I saw it differently. These kids had waited all winter for their first chance at victory. They had the spot. From their perspective their event was important. I have to agree.
It’s the old story: Put yourself in the other guy’s shoes and then do the right thing.