It Begins...

The schoolie bass have begun to show up in New England, and the larger fish will soon follow.  Although the water is still cold, now is a good time to pull out all of the gear and do some repairs in anticipation of the coming season.  

Dry rotted bands need replacing.  Shooting line is inspected for nicks and tears.  Spear tips are cleaned of rust and sharpened.  Floppers are exercised and inspected.  Wetsuit glue is used to patch and repair any small holes in neoprene. Masks are treated with anti-fog.  Knifes are sharpened.  The newest pair of booties and gloves are chosen out of a pile.  

Everything is neatly packed in the dive bag ready for a sunny day in May. 

A spring-time schoolie striped bass caught on hook and line and released.