First catch of the spring

After a successful ice fishing season which saw my first laker ever caught through the ice, it's springtime now. For me, that's one of my favourite times to chase panfish and crappies. While I wait to bring the Nitro out of storage, shore fishing is on the agenda, and don't think that you need to have a boat to be able to have lots of fun catching these little fellas. The other great thing about spring fishing is watching/listening to nature and wildlife activity all around you. From the birds singing and nest building to the geese flying North etc. I was fortunate to see the swans on the river when I was out the other day. As the weather continues to warm up these panfish and crappie start making their way in from the depths to spawn. Go out using some lightweight jigs 1/16, 1/32, 1/8 oz, Angler's Choice panfish plastic grubs, small crankbaits, spinnerbaits, etc, using Quantum ultralight rod and reels. This is also a great time to take the kids out fishing using jigs and dew worms and a bobber/float and watch the smiles on their faces grow with every fish they catch. Get out and enjoy this time of year. With all that we have been through in the past year, fishing is a great activity that can be done all while practicing social distancing. So grab yourself your favourite fishing partner and some lightweight tackle and enjoy catching some panfish and creating memories that will last a life time.