Bassing Bob

There isn’t much we can do to prevent severe weather conditions, but with common sense and a little due diligence we can spare ourselves the consequences of venturing out when it is against our best interest. Fishing Expert James Dill shares with us some tips and suggestions to help any angler cope with weather extremes while out on the water . Check the Weather Often Dill said he checks the weather forecast every day before he goes out; and every hour when he is on the water. “Staying ahead of the weather, and planning your time and location on the water accordingly, is your best precaution,” Dill said. “When I’m on the water, I always look at the forecast on an hourly basis as well as checking the radar. That way if there is a threat of severe weather, I can take the necessary precautions to protect myself, including getting off the water before conditions change.” Still, even the most experienced anglers can be caught off guard by a wicked weather pattern, and it’s importa...

While inclement weather can hit the Lake of the Ozarks anytime of year, the high winds and plummeting temperatures common in fall and winter can create some of the most dangerous conditions for anglers to encounter on the water and increase the potential for serious injuries, and even death. Longtime angler James Dill is a highly-experienced Emergency Management Technician (EMT) in Sunrise Beach, MO. He is also a Lake of the Ozarks fishing guide and tournament angler; and the owner of Crock-o-Gator Bait Company. All this makes Dill well-suited to advise fellow anglers on the hazards of fishing in severe weather and the precautions you can take to stay safe on the lake. Here are a few safety tips he recommends for inclement weather on the water. Equip Your Boat for an Emergency First and foremost, Dill stressed that anglers should never leave the dock without being well-versed in the basics of prevention and emergency readiness. Having a fully-stocked and easily accessible on...