Angler resolutions for 2019

Around this time every year, it’s safe to say most people at least consider some sort of New Year’s resolution, which could be to make themselves more fit, to eat healthier foods, or simply to better their life.
As someone who constantly is thinking about fishing, and how to have better results on each outing, I know there are plenty of small things I can do to improve my results. So my resolutions each year usually are related to being a better angler.
For as much fishing as I’ve done, the area where I’m most disappointed in myself is in my knot-tying. There literally are dozens of good knots for all kinds of fishing applications but I only know how to tie about three or four of them–and they’re not the best ones!
The knots that I tie get me by but I know I could do better.
For me to learn a new knot, I need to learn how to do it while I’m at home watching TV because if I try to learn how to do them on the water, I’m always more interested in fishing than to actually learn a new knot. A few of the best knots to learn are the Palomar knot for tying to your lure and an Albright or FG knot for joining lines together.
When it comes to taking good pictures of the fish that you catch, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best possible photo. I’ve been fortunate to participate in several photo shoots over the years with some of my fishing sponsors and have learned a few tricks from some of the best photographers in the business.
Always try to show the broadside of the fish out in front of you when you hold the fish, and do your best to try to hide your hands on the back or underside of the fish. The best times for photos are early and late in the day when the sun is low.
During the middle of the day when the sun is high, always use a flash which will help to eliminate shadows.
Also make sure the fish is clean and that there is no blood, dirt, or snow on it to make it look it’s best.
Finally, remember that a fish can hold its breath out of the water for about as long as you can hold your breath, so make sure you take your picture and get those “trophies” back in the water quickly.
For some reason as a kid, I always wanted to fish for bass and pike–fish you could catch on funky-looking lures–more than I wanted to fish for walleye and lake trout, which my Dad usually was hunting for. Fortunately, when I was 10 years old, I talked him into taking me in the Kenora Bass International tournament.
He had never fished for bass before but took an interest in it for me and we’ve both enjoyed bass fishing for many years since then.
In the new year, try fishing for a species that you don’t usually target. It could be musky or crappie or even stocked trout. Trying new things on the water is what makes you a better overall angler because you are forced to learn.
It’s easy to find information about catching any species of fish online or even at the local fishing store.
Beyond these things, try new lures and techniques for the fish you are comfortable fishing for, go to new lakes, get out there, and explore. We have so many amazing fishing opportunities right here in Sunset Country so go and have some fun!