We've talked a lot in the past about the dangers of shark fishing. While lots of people have close calls boating threshers and makos, you don't often hear stories that result in hospitalization or bloodshed. I'd say that's because while sharks may have a mouth full of teeth, those teeth don't extend four feet out in front of their heads.

So I’ve lucked into an exotic bass-fishing trip to a place known for monster largemouths. I need some advice from you bass guys. Rods, reels, and line aren’t a problem. But I need some lure suggestions.

Understand that I usually travel very light, even on major fishing trips, so space is an issue. I’d like to haul a major tackle box, but that’s out. I’ve got maybe one cubic foot of space for lures. And I need to cover everything from topwaters to deep-running cranks to soft- plastics.

Today is the traditional Opening Day of trout season in New York state. It is also April Fool’s Day. Some will wisely assume the two are somehow connected.

The water temperature of the Beaverkill, that most famous of Catskill trout rivers,  this morning is 42 degrees. The weather forecast calls for cloudy skies with afternoon rain showers and air temperatures also in the 40s. It is a lovely day for playing cribbage by a warm wood stove; somewhat less lovely for trout fishing.

When sketchy weather or prior obligations keep me close to home on weekends, my attention turns to largemouth. For me, bass have always been a fish good for killing a few hours in the local lakes and ponds, but I have never traveled to chase them in famed waters. I am, however, happy to report that I caught my first of the season Sunday, and they were pretty aggressive even though the spawn is nearly two months away and the water is still darn cold.