Fishing Update - Sebago Lake Ice is Still In!

Preparation Now Ensures Angling Success

With ice-out a few weeks away, now is the time to prepare and make sure you are ready to hit the water when the water hits you! Get that boat ship-shape, clean up your tackle box and get those rods and reel ready to scream!

Boat and Motor Preparation

If you didn't winterize your boat and motor, get it prepped this spring. Make sure your oil and lower-unit fluid is changed in those outboards. Hit those grease fittings. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on other maintenance. As a rule, I change the impeller on my trolling outboards every 3-4 years. This is crucial to the cooling system of the motor. Videos are available online to show you how to do it, and it's not difficult if you are relatively handy. Be sure you have registered your boat and have the Invasive Species sticker (part of the registration if you are a Maine resident).

Trailer Maintenance Checklist

You can't fish if you can't get to the lake! Make sure the tires are good and inflated properly (check the recommended pressure on the tire sidewall). Make sure the wheel hubs are greased and don't show excessive play. If they wobble, replace the bearings. Check the lights. Trailer lights are notorious for malfunctioning. Check bulbs/LEDs, wiring, grounds and connections. Make sure your trailer is registered, too.

Rod and Reel Setup

Wipe your rods down with a wet cloth and inspect for broken guides. Clean and grease your reels (videos available online) and fill with fresh line. Sebago region Guide CJ Harmon of Burnt Meadow Guide Services says "You won't catch the fish of a lifetime if you don't fish like you're going to catch the fish of a lifetime." That means using good knots, using fresh line and leaders and using good tackle.

Organizing Your Tackle

Stock up on those hot lures, clean out that tackle box or bag, don't forget terminal tackle like snaps, swivels and split rings. Check your lures for sharp hooks, replace and rusty, bent or broken hooks.

Final Thoughts: Get Ready for Fishing Season

A little prep works pays dividends as the season goes along. I started these processes in the dead of winter, so I'm ready and raring to go. But if you didn't, there is still time.

About the Author

Tom Roth is a registered Maine Guide and a 30-year veteran of the Maine outdoors. He has served as the Sebago Lake columnist for The Maine Sportsman since 1995 and is the author of A Sporting Year in Maine.

Ready to get on the water?

Book a trip with Guide Tom Roth for expert-led adventures on Sebago Lake and beyond.