Boat control is everything. Without it you’ll catch fewer fish. In general, with the trolling motor in front, putting the nose of the boat into the wind will give you the most boat control.
Anchoring in open water, or tying to a brush pile, are ways to keep the boat in one position and stable. The new Power-Poles are good for anchoring in shallow water.
Very high winds are different. Put the nose of the boat into the wind and you’ll do nothing but bounce up and down. Go with the wind instead of into it. Drag a heavy log chain attached to a rope or use drift socks out the back to slow the boat to a fishable speed. These methods help keep the front of the boat more stable for a better fishing platform. However, be sure to have a heavy-duty knife available to cut a sock or chain loose. If any of these items hang-up in heavy wind they will stop the boat, pull it down a little and large waves will quickly fill the boat with water. The knife can cut a rope and save your life. -TH
