Syracuse.com - Start getting ready for Monday's trout fishing opener today

[HuntingNY-News]

For those who can't wait, there are stretches of three local streams open for year-round trout fishing: Chittenango, Limestone and Butternut Creeks. (See stories, videos and maps of these streams.)

Preparation is essential in trout fishing. Here I am with a nice Nine Mile Creek brown that I caught on a nymph and released afterward. Stephen D. Cannerelli [email protected]  

Old man winter is extending his stay this week. Don’t be down. A few snow flurries and a blast of cold here and there never hurt anyone.

The cure for those suffering from cabin fever comes Monday. It's the opening of the trout fishing season.

A bit of advice, though, from a long-time procrastinator. Don’t wait until the last minute. Start getting ready for the opener today.

Make sure you get your fishing license and read through the DEC fishing guide to update yourself on the updated regulations on the waterway(s) you plan to fish.

Check out your waders or hip boots. Slip them on and wade in a local stream or pond, or fill up the stationary tub in your basement and hold your boots underwater and check for bubbles. Find out if there are any leaks and patch them.

Nothing is worse than leaky boots and cold, wet feet. Believe me, I’ve been there.

Whether you have a fly rod or spinning outfit, get it out and look it over. Clean it off, give it a little oil. Make sure everything is in proper working order. For that matter, line up a backup rod and reel.

Nothing is worse than a reel that suddenly goes on the fritz when you’re out on the stream, or breaking your rod tip off by accidentally slamming it in the car door – leaving you with nothing else to fish with. Believe me, I’ve been there.

If you have a fly rod, put on a new leader and have a couple of spares just in case. Also, get ready a good supply of nymphs and streamers. Leave the dry flies at home. It’s too early for them. Make sure you also stock up on split shot sinkers to get your flies down because that’s where the fish will be.

Those taking to the stream with spinning outfits should change their lines. Take off the 8-pound test line. You’re not targeting bass or carp. Good, 4-pound monofilament test line will do. It's less visible to trout and more sensitive. You can feel the bites better.

While you’re at it, stock up on hooks, split shot sinkers and lures. Bring at least three each of your favorite lures. Nothing is worse than catching a fish on a lure that you only have one of, and then losing it on the next cast to an unexpected snag or on a nearby tree limb while casting.

Be prepared for the weather. Get together warm clothes, a pair of gloves, a hat and socks. Always pack rain gear just in case.

Have I forgotten anything? Yes, one more thing. Don’t wait until Sunday evening to start thinking about all this.

Believe me, I’ve been there.

Robert Risley, of North Syracuse, fly fishes at Butternut Creek last year. Peter Chen | [email protected]  

FOR THOSE WHO CAN'T WAIT:There's three local trout streams with stretches open to anglers for year-round trout fishing. Click on the following for stories, maps and videos:

- Butternut Creek

- Limestone Creek

- Chittenango Creek

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog