Check the weather to see what kinds of conditions are expected and dress accordingly.
Take an extra set of dry clothes in case of emergencies.
Never fish alone.
Knowing the warning signs of hypothermia could save your life. If you notice yourself, or anyone with you, suffering from any of the following symptoms, get back to your car or truck.
Uncontrollable shivering.
Vague, slow, slurred speech.
Momentary lapses in memory.
Loss of control of, or fumbling hands.
Frequent stumbling.
Drowsiness.
Apparent exhaustion.
Mother Nature can be brutal, but you don't have to let the cold weather keep you indoors. By using good sense and following the guidelines mentioned here, you will have safer, more comfortable fishing trips all winter long.
Battling the elements and bass fishing go hand in hand. We leave the relative comfort of our houses and offices and place ourselves in Mother Nature's playground, but winter is almost upon us now, and with it comes the inherent dangers of colder weather and water temperatures. The threat of hypothermia and other cold-related injuries in such conditions is very real, so knowing how to prepare yourself for the cold is crucial in assuring that all your fishing trips are both comfortable and safe.
Though you may not realize this, what you eat and drink, the amount of rest that you get and what you wear, all play an important role in cold weather preparedness.
The first step in preparing for cold weather excursions starts in the kitchen. Your body is like a fine tuned machine, and when all its systems are properly running and maintained, it is able to withstand and compensate for a variety of external temperatures and conditions. The kitchen is where you get your fuel. Many engines require a certain grade of fuel to keep them running in good condition, and your body is the same. The fuel you use in your body directly effects your performance and the way your body functions. Especially in the cold, your body needs more of the "higher" grade fuels to keep it going. Complex carbohydrates such as those found in rice, beans, breads and pastas, are excellent sources of energy because they can be stored and then used when needed.
Drinking the correct amount of water (almost a gallon a day) is another aspect of eating right that can't be overlooked. Water acts as a transport system for your body, it moves helpful nutrients to where they are needed, and helps "flush out" waste materials and contaminant's that may be harmful. It is also essential in temperature regulation.
The next element in cold weather preparation, is getting plenty of rest. The optimal rest requirement is eight hours in a twenty four hour period. Sleep acts as the maintenance shop for your body. While you sleep, the different systems in your body repair themselves and are "recharged." In colder weather, staying "charged" is that much more important since you expend more trying to stay warm.
Just as important as getting rest, eating right and drinking lots of water, is wearing the right clothing. Both the materials they are made from and the way they are worn determine how well they protect you from the elements.
The best way to dress for any temperature is in layers. Also, your clothes should not fit too tightly since the warmed air that gets trapped between the layers is what keeps you warm. The National Ski Patrol suggests a four-layer system.
Since as high as 70 percent of your body heat can be lost through your head, the first thing you should put on is a hat. Even if it's just a baseball cap, it's surprising how much heat that one layer can retain. For colder temperatures, a fleece, or wool stocking cap may be needed. One idea is to take both a baseball cap and a stocking cap, so if the temperature changes, you can change your hat with it.
The next layer is underwear; what you wear closest to your skin. It's important to wear something that will wick perspiration away from your body. Water on your skin will begin cooling you down quite rapidly. The best materials are wool, and many of the newer synthetics. Cotton is the worst because once it gets wet it loses almost all insulating properties and takes a long time to dry. A pair of synthetic thermals is a wise choice.
You may also want a pair of gloves. Get some that fit well and keep your hands dry.
The second layer consists of your shirt and pants. Again, wool is recommended and works well for both, but a pair of jeans and flannel shirt will do. You want materials that are breathable and will allow the moisture coming from your body to escape.
The third layer is the outer layer or shell, what most of us would consider a jacket or coat. It should be relatively light, wind and water repellent, and breathable. This is the layer that will protect you most from the elements. Water repellent pants or bibs are also recommended. One of the keys to staying warm is staying dry.
The fourth and last layer is the insulating layer. This is your "extra" layer and should consist of a thick wool sweater or synthetic fleece to be worn under the shell. Although you may not need it on every occasion, it is important to have it just in case. Sweaters or fleece jackets can be stored in a plastic bag or other dry container until needed. The key to safety is being prepared.
One thing that many people overlook are their eyes. While flying across a lake in a boat you can experience winds of over 70 mph. With the right amount of wind and cold, the cornea of your eyes can actually freeze, causing distorted vision and damage. A pair of ski goggles will help protect your eyes from freezing and debris.
There are a considerable number of hazards to consider when fishing in the winter cold, following these tips will make your trip more enjoyable and safer too.
But don't let the cold keep you indoors, get on out there, this is a great time for trophy bass.
Battling the elements and bass fishing go hand in hand. We leave the relative comfort of our houses and offices and place ourselves in Mother Nature's playground, but winter is almost upon us now, and with it comes the inherent dangers of colder weather and water temperatures. The threat of hypothermia and other cold-related injuries in such conditions is very real, so knowing how to prepare yourself for the cold is crucial in assuring that all your fishing trips are both comfortable and safe.