by Aaron Teal
Don’t think that just because there is ice on the lake you can’t get prepared for bass fishing. In fact, this is when I start getting everything in line. This is where I figure out what I’m fishing, budgets, equipment, and researching lake maps, etc. Though you may be eager to get out on the lake, many things need to take place first.
I’m constantly online during the winter looking for any new edge I can get on my competition. Whether bait, lure, or other various products, I’m constantly looking for that extra edge I can get. One way to learn about various new products is the web; there are many different sites that offer new advantages to bass fishing. Also there are a lot of new products featured in Bass magazines and this is also a great source.
This is also a great time to lay out what tournaments you are going to be fishing if you are a tournament fisherman. Scheduling is very critical. Remember, when you are picking your tournaments, know what skill level you are at.
"I'm constantly online during the winter looking for any new edge I can get on my competition."
If you just want to have fun fishing tournaments without getting too competitive, it’s important to pick low-entry tournaments on lakes you are familiar with and have confidence fishing. If you are more serious, crave the competitive aspect of fishing, and have some time on your hands, a tour may be a good fit for you. Figuring out your schedule is a very important piece in the puzzle of preparation.
Once you figure out what lakes you are going to be fishing, why not start studying maps? It’s never too early to get those lake maps out and start figuring stuff out. One thing to always keep in mind is the time of year your tournament is on that body of water. For example, if the tournament is in July, then it’s important to figure out some good areas where the bass are going to be during that time of year. In July, depending on the lake, I’m usually keying in on deep water areas like points, humps, inside turns, etc. I can tell you right now that studying maps is critical. When I study a map, I’m looking for areas that play to my strengths as well as where I think the fish are going to stage during the scheduled time of year.
Just remember that it is never too early to prepare for fishing season.
Aaron Teal is a Scheels-sponsored bass fisherman in Minnesota's 15-18 age division. Aaron lives with his family on the Horseshoe Chain of Lakes near Richmond, Minn. For more tips and product demos, check out www.aaronteal.com.





















