With open water fishing only inches away, one has to be prepared, equipment wise that is. I have wiped and cleaned all my rods and reels to a shiny finish. Squeaky clean. Little WD40 on the reel gears, careful not on the bail or roller as is will deteriorate mono quickly. I use alcohol wipes to clean my rod quides since they collect all kinds of crap and crust. Probably one of the most important preperations this time of year is to change line.
Your reels have sat idle for a few months and what line you have might be a little brittle and has taken on memory. You will see this when you open your bail and the line comes off like a slinky. Line replacement is relatively cheap and quick. I change my line at least 4 times a year. I like it fresh and limp. Hey no smart A– comments on the limp part OK. Remember, you line is the business end and determines catching. Get that tackle box in order so you can spend more time in the water then sorting through a mess. Comeon open water, my stuff is ready to go. 
March 30, 2006 at 2:15 pm
#1317676
If Foster Arends should melt soon that would be fantastic as its so deep that its usually one of the last waters to be ice free around here. So you know what that would mean for the rest of the lakes and rivers. 
FISH ON!!!