Eric Davis
Sun Outdoor Columnist

This time of year, can seem like it goes on forever and ever, but make the most of the slow season and use it to get ready for the busy season. Whether that means spring trout season or hunting season this fall (or even next fall) you can start getting prepared for success.
Check out new gear and equipment at sportsman shows. The big show in Harrisburg, PA just ended but there are plenty of others to go to. The biggest companies are showing off their latest and greatest goodies. Now is the time to test products and ask questions with staff that are the most knowledgeable on the products. This gives you a chance to see what is likely coming to local stores this fall and what you think you need to have. If you find something you want and it’s expensive, now you can start saving for it. Or plan how to spend your tax refund!
If you have been thinking of going on a hunt with an outfitter, there usually are outfitters at these shows also. Just like with new products, this is your time to ask the outfitter questions and get a feel for the operation and the people running it. They are there trying to book trips so they should be willing to spend some time with potential clients.
A few key questions to ask include; what is your primary species, how long have you been doing this, are you fully licensed, and what is your client success rate? If you are going on a hunt in rugged terrain, ask the outfitter what kind of physical shape they expect you in. If they plan on hiking 8-10 miles in the mountains every day and you can’t make it a mile on flat ground, you’re going to need to get in shape.
A lot of people can’t wait for trout season to start in April. A lot of local streams are stocked by the Department of Environmental Conservation. You can get the list of bodies of water that are stocked and with what size and species of fish on their website.
If you are looking for a different trout fishing experience in April, consider going to the Finger Lakes and fishing tributaries for spawning trout. Seneca and Keuka Lakes both have renowned spawn-run rainbow trout fisheries. The trout swim upstream to find places to spawn and fisherman waiting upstream can try their luck and landing some pretty large trout.
I grew up fishing the Catherine Creek run in Montour Falls and Millport. Opening day of the season is usually a zoo but if you go in the middle of week after opening day, you often have spots to yourself. Make sure you read the Regulations for fishing these waters as they have very specific rules. You’re going to want a long light-action rod with some 8-10 lb. test line. The local favorite is egg sacs fished a few inches below a couple split shot. You can get the egg sacs in different colors, so be willing to change them until you find what the fish like. Also, be prepared to catch more suckers than you can even think is possible to catch. With some patience, you can get through the suckers and hook into a nice rainbow trout.