New Year’s resolutions are an annual ritual. It’s a time to look back and reflect on what matters most, how we feel about our lives, and what changes might improve our situation. It’s also a time to consider what positive actions and fresh adventures might be planned for the new year. Anglers can glean some valuable insight by reviewing their year in fishing, examining what they learned from their days on the water, what their experiences revealed and assessing how this knowledge might lead to improved success and enjoyment in 2024.
I’m not suggesting that we write down hard and fast resolutions that don’t give any wiggle room. Instead, think back on even the small things that when done differently might have had a bigger impact than you ever imagined. An example might be remembering when you hooked a nice fish only to lose it to a failed knot, that tell-tale squiggle on the end of your line where the hook used to be attached. This resolution might read, “Always remember to carefully tie my knots, inspecting and testing them before I start fishing.” The same applies to sharpening hooks, checking the drag, and inspecting the line for nicks and abrasions. Reflections like this can be the start of a general review of all your rigging, the state of your tackle and lures and the condition of the line you have on your reels.
Tackle and organization are certainly places to start but extend that same thinking to other equipment like your boat and motor, waders, push pole and trolling motor. Experience teaches us that it’s the little things that we overlook that come back to haunt us. On the water, consider thinking out of the proverbial box by altering your routine strategy. Many anglers go fishing with a plan and never deviate from it. They start at one spot and hit all the usual holes during the day. A different option is to try planning to fish in places you’ve never explored before. I’ve done this and been amazed at how many areas there are that have proven to be productive. Looking at the same place with new eyes can be revealing.
Also, consider trying a new destination. There are lots of beautiful and productive fishing adventures within a few hours’ drive of Anna Maria Island, both north and south. Drive two hours north and you can explore the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge and, just north of there, Homosassa, Crystal River and Withlacoochee Bay. Less than two hours south and you can discover Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. Don’t want to go that far? Anyone with a boat can leave Anna Maria Island and be fishing in fresh water in less than an hour. The Manatee River and Braden River provide anglers with a variety of fish from tarpon to catfish, redfish to bass. Both rivers also have numerous launch sites for boats, kayaks and paddleboards.
It might even prove useful to review how you approach fishing. If you’re a fly caster, look at ways you might improve your casting and consider learning how to cast with your non-dominant hand. Anglers who use conventional tackle might want to try artificial lures instead of always relying on live bait. No matter how long you’ve been fishing or what your level of competency there’s always room for improvement. A general review of tackle, techniques and the opportunities available to you can only improve your enjoyment of fishing moving into 2024.
Lastly and even more important, consider getting involved in protecting the resource that determines our fishing today and in the future. Fishermen have the most to lose by not addressing the degradation of our local waters and habitat. There are so many ways to make a difference no matter your circumstance. Keep an eye out and report illegal mangrove trimming and pick up trash on the water. Employ enlightened self-interest by vetting your local, state and national politicians on how they voted on matters that affect the water we drink and swim in and the fish we pursue. If we vote party line rather than on the issues that affect our fishing, we’re working against our self-interest. Write letters, attend commission meetings and join and donate to organizations like Sarasota Bay Watch, Vote Water and Suncoast Waterkeeper who work to protect our watery world. A resolution to act this year will protect what we value most for today and future generations. Happy New Year!
