Fishing Report

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ORGANIZING TACKLE FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON

 

Williamson County Tourism Bureau has some advice for off season sorting of fishing tackle.  The system is dependent upon what type of fishing one plans.  It is simple if all of the fishing is done from a single boat for one species.  If wading, then organization takes some planning for weight and limited storage space.  There are just so many pockets in a fishing vest.

 

Maybe you want to fish different species in different locations, under a variety of conditions.  That is possible in Williamson County and southern Illinois.  A free Fishing Guide from the Williamson County Tourism Bureau gives advice of fishing for a variety of species available locally.  Because of the amount of tackle, it is easier to have a number of tackle boxes.  They can be labeled by species.

 

A simple way to keep tackle separate are those clear plastic tackle boxes.  They come in a variety of sizes with moveable dividers.  Into each box go a few good lures for a specific species.

 

Check each lure to see if it is in need of hook replacement or other repair.  Advance checking can save a lot of valuable fishing time later on the water.  Who needs to spend time sharpening hooks when there are fish to be caught.  By checking the tackle as it is placed in the box, you can see what tackle needs to be replaced.

 

In a single box, put a few lures that work on the surface, with some that are deep diving.  Just to be on the safe side, include some that work in between those areas.  When it comes to soft plastics, several of each favorite color can be placed in zip lock bags and included in the box.  Putting them in the plastic bags prevents the colors from bleeding into each other.

 

For live bait fishing, keep all the terminal tackle in these same boxes.  A variety of hooks in one, a selection of weights in another.

 

For wade fishing and fly fishing, use the very small plastic boxes that will fit into the pockets of your vest or pants.  Use same principle as with the larger boxes, a few lures for each situation that might be encountered.

 

Each of the boxes is labeled as to species.  An additional box holds, a few band aids, a knife, compass, flashlight, pliers and forceps in case of an emergency.

 

When it comes time to go fishing, pull out the utility box with the band aids, etc, as well as the ones for the species and type of fishing planned.  Place boxes in a gym bag or day pack.

 

The bags made of cordura or other nylon fabric are recommended.  They are tough and also have space for a rain suit and a lunch.  If they are large enough, throw in a camera for recording the catch as well as the entire experience of a fishing vacation.

 

This is not the only system in the world.  But, any system is better than none.  Explore the options available in tackle organization and then choose one what works best for you.  Once you have a place for everything and everything in its place, you will be able to concentrate on catching fish.  You also will be able to go fishing on a minutes notice.

 

The free Fishing Guide, information regarding motel accommodations and points of interest is available from Williamson County Tourism Bureau, 1602 Sioux Drive, Marion, Illinois 62959 or by calling 1-800-GEESE-99.  Information is also available online at: www.visitsi.com, the Williamson County Tourism Bureau website.  Their e-mail address is: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ..