Bass Fishing at Sunrise

Haven't been fishing since before Christmas and I'm getting really antsy. I am in the process of changing trolling motors on my Tracker, since I ran the batteries down a couple of times last season. Off with the 12 volt, 43 pound Motorguide, and on with the 24 volt, 80 pound Minn Kota Maxxum Pro! I have it mounted and wired; I just need to reconnect the depth finder sensor (and make sure that it can turn without stressing the cable as I steer the motor) and the motor will be done.

Of course, that doesn't mean the project is done. Now I need three batteries (two for the trolling motor, one to crank or power the back TM I used to get the boat on the trailer) so I bought a new three bank charger. I still need to replace the pump for the livewell while I'm in there, and the only way to get the batteries to fit will be if I buy Optimas for the trolling motor. I hope I can find them on sale; they're pretty pricey otherwise. I hear that Angler's Paradise runs a sale in March. I'm counting on it...

Speaking of which, if you've never been to Angler's Paradise, make the trip. It's a GREAT store filled with the baits you only read about in magazines. A really friendly bunch of guys are extremely helpful. No, I didn't get paid for saying that.

I visited the Bass Pro Shops in PA to buy the trolling motor and charger. It's a drive but if you go with some buddies it goes pretty fast. I've been to seven Bass Pro Shops, I think... I visit them when I travel on business, if time allows. They're all great but tend to focus on the technique or fish that's popular where they're located. For example, the one in Gurnee Mills, IL, has a lot of walleye gear.

The sun's going down and I'm hoping to get more done on the boat tomorrow. I plan to do more fishing and less peripheral stuff, like making baits, this year. I am going to fish more tournaments, hopefully something regular. I always learn a lot from other anglers when I fish with them.

Hang tough... we'll be out there soon!

posted by NJFishRGuy @ 2:11 PM