BOTHERS OF SUMMER FISHING

Well Summer is here and so is the chance of insect bites and sunburns. This became real clear to us a couple weeks ago as we found ourselves not prepared. Even though obvious, we hope to provide some tips to help you prepare for your summer outings.
We spend much of our time outdoors on or near the water and know how mosquito bites can drive you crazy
So here are some tips for those insect bites:
- 1. Avoid areas where insects nest or congregate, such as stagnant water pools or where flowers are blooming.
- 2. Do Not use scented soaps, colognes or hair sprays
- 3. Do Not wear bright colored clothes or ones with flower prints
- 4. When using repellents with DEET, follow instructions on label
- 5. Rub stick deodorant over the itchy spot
- 6. Vanilla can keep gnats away (THANKS Jeff & Lisa for this one).
Our next concern is how we absorb a lot of sunlight as serious fishermen and outdoors people.
Over exposure to the sun can lead to premature aging of your skin and can lead to skin cancer with repeated or excessive exposure.
Actually, it does not have to be bright sunlight since the ultraviolet (UV) part of the sun is the most harmful to your skin.
And here are some Tips for sun protection:
New Sunscreens are labeled with a “sun protection factor” (SPF) and SPF 15 is the minimum for normal conditions, but we prefer a SPF 30. If you are more sensitive to the sun or expect to be exposed for a long period, use a SPF 30 or above for adequate protection.
However, do not let yourself be encouraged to be exposed for longer periods with these new sunscreens.
For best results, make your initial application a heavy coating and reapply at regular intervals for 2-3 hours.
Wide brim Hats which cover the back of your neck, ears, nose and lips are best.
Long sleeve shirts and pants of light weight material will prevent sunburns. We always have an extra long sleeve shirt in our boat
Do not forget feet and ankles, these are also areas very prone to sunburn thus shoes and socks may be uncomfortable but will prevent discomfort later.
Also remember the reflection from the water can bounce UV rays under your hat so a good pair of sunglasses is a must. Remember sunburns are a burn and will be miserable.
Cold, wet compresses of water, whole milk, cornstarch, iced tea and other home remedies are cooling. Use a hypoallergenic moisturizing cream to sooth such as Aloe Vera. Avoid oils that trap heat and make it worse.
Aspirin or Ibuprofen analgesics can lessen the pain.
If your burn is severe enough to blister, consider calling your doctor.
As fishermen and outdoors people we need to be sensitive to the sun’s dangers today. Dress appropriately, take fluids and treat yourself as good as all your other equipment.
One other condition we need to be aware of during these Hot weather months is the buildup of body heat. When we get hot, we sweat to remove heat. During this process our bodies are also losing the fluids needed to function properly, leading to dehydration. Take occasional drinks of water or Gatorade to help replace fluids and electrolytes and Do Not wait to feel thirsty before you drink something.
If you read our articles a couple months ago, we talked about our review of the great Hand-tied Calftail Hair jigs from Jimbo’s Jigs. Last month Jim and Carol added NEW Hand-tied Calftail Bluegill jigs and Hand-tied Bucktail Bass jigs to their original line of Crappie Knockers and these too seem to be irresistible to fish. Check them out on the web at www.jimbosjigs.com or call 618-452-3536 we are sure you will like them!
We wish to say CONGRATS to Ben and Vicki Short of Bartonville for finishing the year in 1st place in points for Region 3 and 4th overall in the U.S. for Crappie USA and they are big users of Jimbo’s Jigs. We also want to say GOOD FISHING to them at the Crappie USA Classic at Santee Copper, SC this fall.

Till Next Time BYE & GOOD FISHING