TACKLE IT!  We’re in full-on tackle crafting mode.  From dry flies and streamers to crappie jigs and smallie bucktails, we’re putting things together this month to get ready for spring.  While it might seem a ways off, the days blur together quickly.  We’ve got hook-related tips to get your efforts off the ground in today’s Outdoors Roundup.

Featured Photo:  SILVER CURLS.  A set of Mustad 3407 hooks await conversion into bass and pike streamers. Simonson Photo.

WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today:  Mon 1/13 – Steady – Hi 11, Lo 8, Wind ESE@10
Tomorrow:  Tue 1/14 – Calm – Hi 15, Lo 4, Wind L&V

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):

Sunrise        Sunset
8:24AM        5:18PM

Moonrise         Moonset          Overhead                Underfoot
9:00PM           10:38AM         3:17AM            3:44PM
Moon Phase:  Waning Gibbous (90% Full)

EDGE HOUR:  3:20-4:20PM.  Moon underfoot ahead of sunset will kick off a strong evening bite in our Edge Hour.

DAY RATING:

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP:

STICK ‘EM.  A sharp hook closes the deal every time.  When tying up flies, jigs or other lures invest in the sharpest models that budgets allow, or alternatively, sharpen up lesser versions before they hit the vise so you know they’re ready to go once they’re dressed.

CLEAN ‘EM.  Use a discarded hackle feather to clean paint, glue or sealant out of the hook eye when you finish up a fly or jig.  Stick the feather in by the butt and pull it through and the fibers will absorb excess liquid, making for a clean eye that removes the need for on-the-water opening.

SPLIT ‘EM.  For those hooks requiring split rings, invest in a solid thin-tipped split-ring pliers.  The smaller the point, the easier it will open split rings – especially those big ones for muskie and pike in-line spinners.