HELPING ANGLERS
When anglers walk into the bait shop the first thing they ask is, how’s fishing or have people been catching fish? I can’t speak for other bait shops, but I’m totally honest with my response. If fishing has been tuff, not too many fish are being caught, or most walleyes have been under the limit, I will tell them. Maybe I should tell people what they want to hear, because I can see the look of disappointment on their faces. On the flip side of that, I’m happy to announce that fishing has been picking up or they came at the right time, because fishing has been really good.
When people plan a fishing trip a year in advance, they never know what kind of weather and or fishing condition they will encounter. Monica and I have seen upper 80s at the beginning of a fishing trip and it snowed by the end of that week. Even though I have been told (more on this later) by more than a few that I shouldn’t do this, if people are not catching the amount or size of fish they would like, I will give them the best advice on where to fish, what bait to use and how to use it.
For over 25 years, before making Land O Lakes our home, Monica and I fish the Cisco Chain in the spring and again in the fall. Those first couple of years we struggled to catch fish but did manage to bring some fish home for a fish fry. Obviously, over the years we learned where to fish in the spring and knew spots we should fish come fall.
Did we find those locations on our own? We found some places, but because of information we received from other anglers, and advice from friends, we started catching a lot more fish. Let me add, hiring a fishing guide doesn’t hurt either. I’ve written before, if you don’t know the water hire a fishing guide the second day if you can. Now you have new spots to fish.
I remember having a couple of drinks at a local bar and we were getting some tips on where to fish on the Cisco Chain from a friend we met a few years earlier. From across the bar, that friend was told (loudly) not to give away secret spots to us. Our friend DID NOT care what that person said and gave us 2 of his favorite spots to fish. Maybe that day is the reason I don’t mind helping other folks catch fish.
There is a lot of lakes on the Cisco Chain and the anglers that are only here for one week can only catch their limit, so do you think we will notice there are fish missing?
Well said, Bill! A person doesn’t have to give away their best spots (that years of time on the water to discover) but it benefits everyone, including local businesses, to help folks have a good fishing experience on the Cisco Chain. They will remember the kindness and leave with a positive impression of the local people and the Northwoods.
Thanks for your comment E.J. Most people don’t get it, but you are 100% right. Do we give folks that are vacationing our hot spots? Maybe. If anglers try but can’t find fish, I do my best to help, but if young children are involved, I will definitely give up spots to mom and dad so the kids can catch fish. Again, I appreciate you reading my articles and commenting.