What's up guys!

Welcome back to The Hookset Weekly!

I know, I know - it's March, and for some of us, it's still snowing out there. Mother Nature apparently didn't get the memo that it's supposed to be spring. But here's the thing: while everyone else is complaining about the weather, smart anglers are using this extra indoor time to get ready for when it finally breaks.

Let's dive in!🎣 KFD Events: 2026 Schedule is Here

While we’re all waiting to get back on the water, here’s something to look forward to. The 2026 KFD Meetup schedule is officially set!

These regional meetups are completely free and open to anyone who wants to come out. The goal is simple. Meet other local anglers, hang out for the day, and hopefully catch a few fish along the way. If you haven't made it to one yet, this is your year to change that.

November 5-8 - Santee Cooper, SC (more details coming soon)

The November retreat is going to be something special. This will be a multi-day event with more anglers, a legendary fishery, nightly Q&A sessions, giveaways, and plenty of time on the water.

We’re heading to Santee Cooper, and the fishing should be incredible.

Mark your calendars now. Spots will be limited, and the guys who attended last year will tell you it’s not just about the fishing. It’s about the friendships.

More details coming next month.

Interested in joining us for any of these events? Reply to this email and let us know which ones you're thinking about!

Look, I get it - March snow is frustrating when you're itching to get on the water. But this extra indoor time is actually a gift. When spring finally hits (and it will), you'll be ready while everyone else is scrambling.

Indoor Projects You Can Tackle Right Now:

1. Install Those Gear Tracks
Perfect garage project. Get them mounted now so they're ready when spring hits.

2. Organize Your Tackle
Sort through everything, toss what's broken, and reorganize your boxes. No more digging for that one crankbait mid-trip.

3. Spool Fresh Line
Do it now in the warmth of your garage instead of freezing on the water.

4. Service Your Reels
Clean, oil, and make sure everything's running smooth. They'll thank you when it counts.

5. Electronics Check
Test your fish finder, charge batteries, and make sure everything's working.

6. Plan Your Spots
Study maps, mark GPS coordinates, and know exactly where you're hitting first.

When The Weather Breaks:
The first warm day after all this cold is going to be MONEY. Bass that have been locked down for weeks will be hungry and aggressive. The guys who are prepared will cash in big while everyone else is still organizing their garage.

Pro Tip: Use this time to tie a dozen of your go-to rigs. When the bite is on, you don't want to waste time rigging up - you want to be fishing.

Charlie N proves that March fishing can absolutely work - even in tough conditions! While most of us are complaining about the cold air and waiting for better weather, Charlie suited up and made it happen.

Charlie's Day:

What I love about this post: Charlie's attitude. "The temps were cold and the air was heavy, but the bite was right." That's the mindset that separates the guys who catch fish from the guys who make excuses.

The reality check: His Rapala now needs new hooks thanks to those pickerel - if you know, you know! Nothing says "successful day" like fish destroying your tackle.

Charlie's takeaway says it all: "Nothing beats peace, persistence, and a day on the kayak!"

Want to be featured in the next newsletter? Reply with your recent catch photos and tell us the story behind it - we love the good, the bad, and the tackle-destroying moments!

Since you're stuck inside anyway, here's the perfect project to tackle in your garage, or share with a friend.

"Ultimate DIY Kayak Crate Build - Anyone Can Make This (2026)"
If you fish from a kayak and still don't have a solid crate setup, this is the one to build. I show you how to create a tough, organized, budget-friendly tackle crate using simple tools and a couple milk crates - no fancy gear or special skills required.

What You'll Learn:

Why This Matters: Perfect timing for indoor projects! While everyone else is complaining about the snow, you can be building the crate system that'll make you more organized and efficient when the weather breaks.

Perfect for: Kayak fishing beginners, DIY enthusiasts, anyone wanting better tackle storage, or anyone not wanting to spend $150 on a new crate.

▶️ Watch Here: Ultimate DIY Kayak Crate Build

Bonus: I include affiliate links to every single item mentioned - milk crates, zip ties, rod holders, tools - so you can grab everything you need without hunting it down.

Challenge: Build one this weekend and tag me on Instagram when it's done - I love seeing these builds come together!

Know a fishing buddy who needs these tips? Forward this to them so they stop asking you the same questions on the water.

Thanks for reading The Hookset Weekly by Bearded Dad Fishing! Got questions or suggestions for future issues? Hit reply - I read every email.

That’s it for this week. Stay warm, fish slow, and enjoy the grind.

Peace and God bless!

- Jay