Schuckman: Finding fishing holes is challenge for some anglers when Mississippi River rises

Fishing from the bank as the sun sets is a prime time for local anglers to land sizable catfish and crappie. | Submitted photo

URSA, Ill. — The sun had already started its dive toward the horizon as Armando and Cindy Gonzalez settled in to their chairs, but the fading daylight didn’t bother them. “Fresh batteries and all,” Armando said as he held up the lantern he planned to use after dusk. His wife of 30 years reached into…

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Time to prepare for fishing season is now, not when the weather warms up

Re-stringing your reels prior to fishing for the first time this season is a good way to ensure your equipment is ready for a fight. Submitted photo

FOWLER, Ill. — The hinges creak as Buster Elliott swings the wooden door open. “I better bring some WD-40 out here with me next time,” he said. “That sounds awful.” Sure, lubricating the hinges will help, but in zero degree weather, some creaking is expected. “Don’t be afraid of the cold,” Elliott said. “You’ll be…

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