Staying Busy This Winter?

[fishweewee]

How are you guys/gals gonna spend your fishing down time?

I'm gonna try to sneak out on a few boat trips to target bottom fish (cod), might even dig out the auger for ice fishing.

If you're not fishing or hunting, are you going to prepare for next season?

Here's what I've done in the past few weeks and plan on doing throughout the "off season:"

1) Clean and lube reels, and replace any wear parts (including drag washers).

2) Send in reels for servicing that would be best factory-serviced

3) Respool reels with fresh line if required.

4) Send in leaky waders for repair. (Already sent in TWO pairs!)

5) Rinse plugs with fresh water. Replace rusty trebles and weakened split rings.

6) Inventory terminal tackle, line and leader supply, make note of things that may need to be replenished. Amazing how much fluoro leader, swivels, hooks and snaps you can go through!

7) Wash rods with soap and warm water. Buff with car wax to cover up slight scratches. Inspect guides for wear, cracks, and chips. Have guides replaced as necessary.

8) Make plugs

9) Pour and tie jigs

10) Tie flies

11) Pour lead sinkers

12) Re-evaluate tackle collection - sell items that aren't being used.

13) Pre-rig rubber lures

14) Attend fishing shows

15) Take stock of techniques and strategies that could be improved for next season.

16) Practice my conventional reel and fly casting techniques.

Does anyone have anything to add to the checklist?

-WW