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Springtime is definitely here, and the warmer temperatures are a welcome sight to all. Not only are these warmer temps a hopefully good thing concerning COVID-19, but they also make the fishing much easier for the average bass fisherman. There are plenty of bass up shallow and they are biting

With so many people out of work due to the current situation, the lakes, bays and rivers are full. The parking lots at many reservoirs are overflowing to the grass. There are more people fishing on a Tuesday at Lake Sam Rayburn than there used to be on a crowded tournament weekend. If you are among the multitudes who are fishing, remember that we still have certain guidelines to follow. Like it or not, it is what it is, and we need to be thinking of others at this time. You can currently still fish in most areas but be sure to practice the proper social distancing and hand washing procedures

If you aren’t one for the crowds, there is a good chance that fish can be caught much closer to home than you may realize. Most of the canals, ditches and ponds in our area hold a number of bass. There are also bayous and rivers that can be fished as well as some area marshes. If a trip to the lake isn’t an option, yet you find yourself going stir crazy, grab a pole and head to the nearest water hole to try your luck. Obviously you need to make sure that you aren’t trespassing.

Once you find a place to fish, take time to enjoy your surroundings. Appreciate the fact that you are able to be outdoors and thank God for your blessings. While we are not supposed to be intermingling with others during this time, we can still interact with those members of our family who live in our house. You may find that the teenager who never wants to fish is now interested since there aren’t many other things to do. Use this bad situation as an opportunity to bond with the members of your own household. If you are fortunate enough to catch a few fish, bring them home, clean them and have a fish fry. Explain to your children how God provided us with fish so that we can have something to eat.

In Romans 8:28 the Bible says “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” During this time I encourage you to trust in God, realize that He has a plan for your life, and that He is in the business of bringing good out of bad. Sometimes all that we can change is our perspective or our attitude and that can make all of the difference in the world!

Brian Johnson, originally of Port Neches, is pastor of First Baptist Church of Winnie, owner of DuckDogTrainer.com and outdoors writer for The News.