Columnist Paula Del Guidice: Preparation the key to safe boat outings

Wednesday, March 31, 1999 | 9:31 a.m.

Paula Del Giudice's outdoors notebook appears Wednesday. Reach her at PDelGiudice@compuserve.com.

The first really warm weekends of the season act like a magnet to draw those who have been house-bound all winter from behind the walls and television sets. It's the perfect time to enjoy fishing, boating or hiking because it's not too warm, even though it's apt to be a little crowded.

Spring is the perfect time to fish at Lake Mead. The largemouth bass fishing has been very good, with fish in the submerged vegetation that is covered by the high water levels. Spawning will begin soon for bass.

Striped bass will be heading to spawning areas soon, too. According to Nevada Division of Wildlife, they should soon begin congregating at the Meadows, Walker Wash, Fish Island and the Meat Hole.

Weekly trout stocking at Mead took place last Friday and will be evaluated on a week-by-week basis to determine how long it will continue. The stockings are dependent on cool water temperatures. When water temps climb, the stockings cease.

NDOW recommends that boaters spend some time in preparation before heading out for the first trip of the season.

"We know people are excited and anxious to get on the water," said David Pfiffner, NDOW supervising boating officer. "We want them to come out and have a good time, but we also want them to have a safe time."

Pfiffner said that preparation often means the difference between a fun day of boating and one that ends in frustration, injury or even death. Boats that have been stored -- whether inside or outside -- for lengthy periods often develop unforeseen problems.

Pfiffner recommends a mechanical checkup and an inspection of safety equipment. Safety equipment can mean the difference between life and death -- but only if it is in good condition and working properly.

While Las Vegas is one of the top destinations for those planning their spring breaks, many locals will be heading out for quieter surrounds.

Great Basin National Park is one of those spots. Nevada's only national park, Great Basin, located near Baker (south of Ely), will be adding extra tours at Lehman Caves to accommodate holiday travelers. On Saturday and Sunday, tours will begin at 7:20 a.m. and continue through 4:20 p.m.

Tour tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve, same-day basis. So park officials recommend arriving early in the day if you plan to visit the caves. Visitors should note that, on a weekend such as this one, officials expect the tours to sell out early.

Campsites will be available but their availability and the access roads to trails are dependent on weather and snow conditions. Expect cold overnight temperatures if you plan to camp. Either carry your own water or obtain some at the Visitor Center. For more information, call (775) 234-7331.

* ENGLISH LESSON: Chuck English of Las Vegas was Nevada's top contender in the BASSMASTER Arizona Western Invitational at Lake Powell March 18-20. He came in 22nd place, finishing in the money with 21 pounds, 9 ounces of fish.

The catch earned him 279 points. He scored just ahead of Byron Velvick of Boulder City, who was Nevada's next top contender, finishing in the money at 33rd. Several other Nevada anglers caught fish but finished out of the top 100.

Point standings in the Western Invitational Tournament Trail after the Powell tourney show Boulder City angler Byron Velvick in 22nd place with 761 points.