"The nicest thing about the future is it always starts tomorrow."

I don't recall where I first heard this phrase but it sure beats any excuse I can offer for current fishing conditions. Area anglers are vigilant for any change that will improve fishing, but the transition period is hard to compensate.

Unlike some sports, it takes a good bit of skill and devotion to be a fisherman.

For one thing, anglers can't see their target and can only guess to where and when it will become available. There are a number of aids, but even these are based solely on the SWAG method -- Scientific Wild Guess.

Some anglers appear better than others, mainly because they go more often. But even those who make a living from the pursuit will have to admit recent conditions have been more of a challenge than usual.

The change is sure to come, though. When it does, you will know by the number of boats waiting to launch and the slight kick in the step of fishermen who have finally been pacified and returned to a somewhat slanted but blissful state of happiness.

BOAT SHOW CONTINUES

The 10th annual Savannah Boat and Outdoor Show continues today and Sunday at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center.

The show features the latest boat models and exhibits of marine and fishing products. The Savannah Fishing Expo will feature a variety of fishing seminars, demonstrations, and one-on-one discussions with local experts.

The hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Admission is $8 for adults, $3 for kids ages 4-12 and free for kids 3 and younger. Admission is $5 with military ID. Parking is $5, or take the River Street ferry for free.

For more information go to SavannahBoatandandOutdoorShow.com.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

The 28th annual Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic will be held March 23-25 at the State Fairgrounds in Columbia. Doors will be open from noon to 8 p.m. Friday, March 23; from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 24; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 25.

This year's event will feature more than 300 exhibits with products, samples, demonstrations and the latest technology in fishing tackle, rods and reels, hunting supplies, tree stands, camouflage and archery equipment, boats, marine equipment and electronics and ATVs and supplies.

Admission is $8 and parking is free. Seniors 62 and older get in for $7, while children 10 and younger are admitted free.

MEETINGS & EVENTS

BSFDC Meeting: The Beaufort Sportfishing & Diving Club's March meeting will be March 8 at the Beaufort Yacht and Sailing Club. Social at 6:30 p.m., meeting at 7 p.m. Guest speaker will be Capt. Bill Parker of "The Runaway." His topic will be sheepshead, and he will discuss techniques, baits, rigs, rods and reels. No reservations needed, guests welcome. For more information, call 843-522-2020.

Concealed Weapons/Pistol Training: Red Bluff Lodge in Allendale will host a concealed weapons permit and NRA basic pistol training seminar from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on March 10. Red Bluff Lodge is located at 130 Boone Trail in Allendale. The seminar is open to the public and costs $125. Lunch, range fees, and all forms necessary for completion are included. Pistol rental and ammunition purchase are available. Pre-registration is required and limited to 15 students. Upon successful completion, students will have met all the requirements to receive their South Carolina concealed weapons permit and NRA Basic Pistol Certification. To register, call Jim at 803-584-7363 or 803-300-1179.

Redfish Fly Tournament: The Sea Island Fly Fishers will host the 13th semiannual fly-only redfish tournament March 17-23. The event is free and open to any amateur interested in fly fishing. Participants will be matched with one of the club's boat captains for one day on the water. Winners -- determined by the spot count on the redfish they catch -- will receive a $100 gift certificate at Bay Street Outfitters and have their name engraved on a trophy. Fish must be released live to be counted. Veteran fly fishers are also welcome to compete, especially boat owners willing to participate. Sign up at Bay Street Outfitters or call Jack Baggette at 843-522-8911.

TACKLE TIP

Tossing bait can easily take a variety of fish. Taking more than what is offered is the challenge most anglers seek.

An angler after a designated species is a fanatic about his fishing and is seldom satisfied if his returns are below expectations. A proficient angler and those who are most successful do their homework.

Fishing includes too many variables to leave to chance. Success comes from more than a bit of luck if you know the particulars for the fish you seek.