As I look back on the year just past, I find myself wishing I had done some things I didn't do and also wishing I had not done some things that I did. So with those thoughts, here is my list of resolutions for the coming year - a kind of wish list of sorts with a fishing slant.
- Resolve to keep fewer fish This one might stir you, but many fishermen who keep fish only to eat, end up eating a fresh meal and freezing the rest. My resolve is to only keep what I can eat fresh. If I need more, it's an excuse to go fishing again!
- Resolve to use circle hooks whenever possible These hooks prevent gut hooks and fish loss and aide in catch and release. Figures I have seen show virtually a 100% survival rate on fish caught in the jaw and handled and released properly.
- Resolve to take more kids fishing Lots of kids sit home and have no opportunity. I try to live by the motto: "Give a child a fish and he has food for a day; teach a child to fish and he has food for a lifetime."
- Resolve to keep my engine tuned Water pollution is increasing, and engine emissions don't help. I might even go to four cycle power if I can afford it this year.
- Resolve to keep my line fresh How many fish did you loose last year because of old, frayed line?
- Resolve to keep my hooks sharp And how about all the fish we missed because of dull hooks.
- Resolve to clean up and organize my tackle box I may never get this one done - haven't been able to keep it organized in many years!
- Resolve to keep abreast of anti-fishing activities The lack of knowledge by the local fisherman is perhaps the greatest tool that animal rights activists have at their disposal. Keep yourself educated on both sides of the fishing issue.
Whatever you resolutions are, I hope you have a safe, happy, and fish filled year. May all your lines be stretched! What are your fishing resolutions for the coming year? Tell us about it on the Saltwater Fishing Forum.
