Fishing with Capt. Gus

The recent cold spell has separated the fair weather fishermen from the hardcore anglers.

The chill has been so frigid that even some of the hardcore crowd have been missing in action. While most anglers prefer to fish in more tolerable conditions, some of the fish don't seem to mind.

Stripers, white perch and spotted bass relish the cooler water temperatures.

This column, however, is not about the fish, but the fishermen who brave the cold winds of January and February. The foolhardy say," I'm from up North and I'm used to the cold."

They proceed to under- dress and freeze during a fishing trip. On the other hand, the astute angler dresses as if he were going duck hunting or snow skiing and stays warm, dry and comfortable.

You can tell by the way people walk when they approach the boat, if they are wearing enough clothes. Those dressed properly are layered so many times that they waddle like a penguin. Those who don't, pay the price and beg to come in early.The key to staying warm in sub-freezing weather is simple. Protect the head, hands and feet, and layer the arms, body and legs. Make sure that the final layer of clothing is an insulated suit, parka and bibs or some type of heavy-duty outerwear designed to repel rain and cold wind.

More times than not, it's the feet that get cold first. Insulated boots and warm socks are a necessity. Tennis shoes, while comfortable in the summer, are not appropriate for winter fishing. If insulated boots aren't available, leather deck or work shoes are an alternative.

Protect your hands with mittens or gloves. Waterproof insulated gloves are best. If you must remove your gloves to dip minnows, wear a pair of latex surgical gloves. They do not keep your hands warm, but keep them dry. The head and face are best protected with a hat, toboggan or hood and a ski mask.

You really should invest in a set of fishing wear for cold weather. For great fishing, the added expense is worthwhile.

Hand and foot warmer packages are a more inexpensive way to help keep you warm.

You can visit www.lakenormanstriperfishing. com or call Gus Gustafson at 704-617-6812. E-mail him at Gus@LakeNorman.com.