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Following up on John's post, I've actually been looking forward to this time of year for my kayak fishing to improve. The spring and summer of 2019 were difficult for me due to family concerns. And then our persistent spring rains swelled our rivers and diluted the salinity of our tidal waters. The result, combined with an already declining striper population, was generally poor tidal fishing locally throughout the summer.
However, before our Noah-like spring arrived, the 2019 season started great for me. I was catching a lot of pickerel in Eastern Shore ponds from late last fall through March. Fat, feisty fish. And I caught the vast majority on the fly which doubled my enjoyment. So I am looking for a repeat of that in the immediate months ahead. I hope I am not disappointed. I was spoiled to have high expectations.
I am very cautious on the water all year, but doubly so in cold weather. I am keenly aware of hypothermia dangers. A worn PFD, not one merely stowed in your kayak is paramount. Also, I rely on my experience, judgment and in-boat techniques to be safe. Clearly the risks remain. Caution can only mitigate not eliminate them. But, the call of calm water on pristine winter ponds with willing pickerel and an occasional bass and crappie is too much for me to forego. So, I look upon this time of year as the start of my kayak angling season, not the end.
However, before our Noah-like spring arrived, the 2019 season started great for me. I was catching a lot of pickerel in Eastern Shore ponds from late last fall through March. Fat, feisty fish. And I caught the vast majority on the fly which doubled my enjoyment. So I am looking for a repeat of that in the immediate months ahead. I hope I am not disappointed. I was spoiled to have high expectations.
I am very cautious on the water all year, but doubly so in cold weather. I am keenly aware of hypothermia dangers. A worn PFD, not one merely stowed in your kayak is paramount. Also, I rely on my experience, judgment and in-boat techniques to be safe. Clearly the risks remain. Caution can only mitigate not eliminate them. But, the call of calm water on pristine winter ponds with willing pickerel and an occasional bass and crappie is too much for me to forego. So, I look upon this time of year as the start of my kayak angling season, not the end.
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