Some of the better things I've learned about bass fishing came from older more experienced fisherman when I was young. One thing I was made aware of years ago were tall, dead, and rotting trees. My partner called them widowmakers, and told me that these trees could be dangerous, especially in newer lakes, where they often line the banks. Some of these trees were 50 to 60 ft tall, and with the base of these trees either submerged or in and out of water during high water times, the base of the trunk becomes soft and rots quickly. With the wind that comes with springtime in many areas, it doesn't take much to uproot or snap these trees off, sending them into the lake, or at worse case, on top of a fishing boat slowly trolling along. I've seen some of the big trees waiving around in the wind, but luckily have never had one break or land in the water. Since my partner told me this year's ago, I've always been aware of these widowmakers. They could cause serious bodily harm, or at worse be fatal. If your moving along a bank where tall trees are prevelent, scan the area ahead of you, and occasionally look up to be aware of what's going on. It could save damage to your boat and gear, and possibly save your life too.
