Well we are finally into March and spring in the north isn’t far away now. The golfers are now thinking about cleaning their clubs and polishing their shoes for early rounds and possibly a trip with the guys to Myrtle Beach to jump start their season. Trout fishermen in New York at least have their season opening on April first so getting the ice shacks off the lake and river is now getting to the point where it has to get done. With trout season it means hiking into the back country for lakes and ponds where the big one might be swimming. Time to check your tackle and electronics whether it is a portable fishfinder setup like the Garmin Echo 151 portable or Striker 4 Portable. It is really not the time to read the instructions or test things out when you get to your spot, know how it works before you get there it will be much more productive and enjoyable if you do. If it is a long hike off road make sure your handheld is working correctly and new batteries are in it for use. I guess the big thing is to prepare for your time in the outdoors to be safe and enjoy it. Looks like my week is ending so I will be back on Monday to harp on you some more about preparedness.