We’re nearing the end of March and I would love to be talking about the excellent spring fishing, upcoming tournaments and the openings I have if you wanted to book a guide trip. Unfortunately, our country and world is facing uncertainly regarding COVID-19. For many of us; school, sports, social activities and “normal” life as we know it have been greatly impacted. As we continue to practice “social distancing”, I wanted to share as many resources as I could to help us all adjust to our new normal, for as long as it may end up being.
Fishing Opportunities
Fishing is one of the perfect social distancing activities for a variety of reasons. It keeps you away from people and crowds, provides you fresh air and is excellent for your mental health. Throughout the past weeks, I’ve taken a look at a variety of the different bites there are this time of year. Depending on where you are, find some of your nearest opportunities to hit the water!
South Dakota-Missouri River
The Missouri River in South Dakota has been providing some excellent fishing opportunities. Whether you are looking to fish Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case or Fort Randall Dam/Lewis and Clark Lake the fishing has generally been very good! Find out more in the Missouri River Spring Fishing Forecast.
South Dakota-Glacial Lakes Region
Open water continues to become more and more available each day in the Glacial Lakes region of South Dakota. Start by looking at inlets/outlets or other areas of flowing water. As the days and weeks roll on, more and more fishing will continue to become available. We share information on some of our favorite spring time bites in the Glacial Lakes Spring Fishing Forecast.
South Dakota-Miscellaneous Bites
There are numerous other areas in South Dakota that offer excellent open water fishing bites. The Fort Pierre National Grasslands and other dams across central South Dakota all can provide excellent fishing, especially for anglers without boats. The ice is also continuing to leave on Lake Oahe, opening up more and more opportunities. Don’t forget about the fishing opportunities in western South Dakota too!
Nebraska
If you are down in the Omaha metro area, there are numerous lakes available in the greater metro area. While I was growing up, I enjoyed some of the excellent opportunities these lakes can offer. The western Nebraska reservoirs can also produce some excellent trophy walleye fishing as well! We have everything you need to know about finding fish in Nebraska in our Nebraska Fishing Forecast.
Iowa
Open water opportunities continue to expand in northwest Iowa. Much like in northeast South Dakota, expect open water angling opportunities to continue to expand. Chris Seylar has been on some fun bites in northwest Iowa and it is certainly worth getting some fresh air!
At Home Activities
As we continue to practice social distancing, we are spending more and more time at home. There are numerous ways you can continue to prepare for a day on the water and still keep your thoughts fishing oriented. Don’t be afraid to share your activities with your family as well! You are never too young to learn about knot tying and the science that goes into fishing!
Activities
Snell tying is the perfect at home activity. It allows you to prepare for the water, while being able to put a touch of uniqueness and creativity into your presentation. There is nothing more rewarding than catching fish on something you made!
I referenced this above, but snell tying is a perfect family activity. Learn and practice new knots from the comfort of your home, this makes it significantly easier to tie them when you are on the water too! Seek input from your loved ones on what they think will attract fish, the craziest rigs are sometimes what produce the best! Learn everything you need to know about tying your own snells in Snell Tying Basics.
Spring training may be suspended for MLB baseball, but that doesn’t mean preparation needs to stop for you. There are numerous ways to make sure you’re ready to hit the water. Find out how you can prepare for fishing in Spring Gear Prep.
Are you looking to perfect your knots? I share a step-by-step guide to tying my favorite knot, the Palomar knot!
Learn More About Fish Biology
Looking for a home school science class? Whether you’re playing professor or just want to learn more about fish biology check out some of these articles and videos!
Although our world may be different, the fish’s world remains unchanged! Spawning activities are continuing as normal and this is always an interesting topic!
This year we are enjoying an early spring, but the past few years this has not been the case. Learn more about what drives walleye spawn and survival and how it can vary year in and year out.
Yellow perch are some of our favorite species to target in South Dakota, especially through ice! Learn more about what can impact their spawning efforts!
Can you tell the difference between a walleye and sauger? Many times on the Missouri River, anglers are catching both of these species. Find out how to tell the difference between these fish and be ready to wow your local creel clerk when you report your catch!
How big of a meal is too big for walleye? Well if you ask me, I don’t think there is such a thing as too big! If you’ve ever wondered if walleyes are true predators, check this out!
This is a difficult time for all of us. None of us are sure what the new “normal” is right now and for how long that may be. What we know is fishing is an excellent way to get fresh air and keep our minds healthy. If there is anything I can do to be of assistance to you during this time, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Stay healthy and good fishing!
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