Sunday is the big day

Sunday, March 1, is the fishing opener for several Columbia Basin waters. They include: Burke, Upper Caliche, Cascade, Crystal, Cup, Dry Falls, Dusty, Lenice, Lenore, Martha, Merry, Nunnally and Quincy lakes.

As mentioned before, the March 1 opener success is largely dependent upon the weather. Keep an eye on the forecast as the first approaches.

Here’s a preview: The weather forecast for George, which is near Martha Lake calls for a high of 52 degrees, mostly sunny skies and a wind of eight miles per hour.

If you plan to camp, which is popular at Martha, the low Saturday night is forecast at 27, but Sunday’s low is put at 32.

The first anglers will be casting lines at midnight if there is no ice on the water. Try PowerBait of various colors and flavors. Also, try worms, salmon eggs and spinners.

Fires are allowed, so take wood if a campfire is desired. Or take a barbecue or camp stove to cook a meal or two. Soup and sandwiches would be a good menu.

The soup can be in a can or homemade. The sandwiches can be premade at home or made at the fishing hole.

A pot of water on the stove would provide a steady supply of warm beverages.

The main thing is to realize this is a special day, one for providing a chance to be outdoors with family and friends. Making the day a pleasant experience is central to everyone having fun.

Take extra clothing so family can take a layer off or add a layer, if needed. Remember, this is a chance to create memories which will last a lifetime.

Last day for cover contest

Contest deadline is March 1. Read on.

From Fish and Wildlife: Each year, Fish and Wildlife sponsors a photo contest to select a cover for the upcoming big game pamphlet. The theme for 2020 will be “Hunting on Washington’s Public Lands.”

Washington is the smallest of the western states, but is second in human population – only California has more people – which makes the state’s public land much more important to residents. Providing sustainable wildlife recreation is a major part of Fish and Wildlife’s mission and we want to celebrate all that our public lands have to offer. From steep, rocky slopes to old growth forests to wetlands, if you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, you can find it in Washington.

Send us your photos highlighting how you take advantage of the hunting opportunities provided by Washington’s public lands, along with a short paragraph describing the scene.

Even if you are not selected as the winner, we may feature your photo on the department’s social media or web pages.

The winning submission will be featured on the next Washington State Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet.