Ciekot: New year's resolutions are to hunt and fish more and work less

Excuse me sir, do you happen to know where 2017 went? I just got used to writing that date on everything and now you're telling me I have to start with 2018? It hardly seems possible, but yes, it's time for another year. Time to look back and take stock of the last 12 months, also time to look ahead to the next 12, to make plans and resolutions for another year of hunting and fishing.

When your only resolution is to hunt and fish more and work less, it's not hard to review. That's my standard plan every year, although the working less is getting difficult. If I worked any less I wouldn't have money for fishing lures or shotgun shells.

For 2017 I did fish more, finally getting in on some serious snakehead action. 2018 calls for more of that, both in time and effort. A New Year's resolution to spend more time on the water is good for anyone on Delmarva.

Sadly for 2017 I hunted less than usual, but on a positive note it was because I was too effective and kept limiting out. Yes, I know, tough problem to have and all, and I don't expect any sympathy, but 2018 calls for bigger challenges. Or good luck could run out, so more time hunting is still an equally good resolution for yours truly or anyone else. 

Beyond those things I want the same for 2018 that I wish for all of you. A happy, healthy year, good weather, no hurricanes, prosperity and plenty of time doing the things you love. Happy 2018, get out there and live it.  

The last gun hunt

Maryland hunters are getting ready for the last deer firearms hunt of the season, with the late split set for next weekend, Jan. 5-7. Everyone gets the first two days, a Friday and Saturday, but hunters in Worcester, Somerset and Caroline counties also get the Sunday on private lands.

This can be a great hunt for several reasons. If you don't have enough venison in the freezer, now's your chance to tag does and fill it. If we get snow, which may happen this year, a day spent tracking can be a great change of pace, a good way to get a trophy and an excellent opportunity to learn what the deer are doing in your area. If all we have is more of this cold weather it can still be an advantage, as deer need to feed and will often move before dark to do so.

Every newscast lately would have you believe the cold weather we've been experiencing will be the death of us all, but in truth it's simply this little thing we get every year called winter. Dress appropriately, go afield prepared for the chill and you'll be fine.

Unless you're a bowhunter this will be your last chance to deer hunt until next fall. That's a long nine months away, so get out there and enjoy this weekend.   

More:Sampson: On Delmarva, the best holiday gifts are in the outdoors

Outdoor Calendar

Jan. 5-7: Maryland late firearms deer season, Sunday in limited areas only

Jan. 6-13: Delaware handgun deer season

Jan. 12-27: Maryland woodcock season

Jan. 13-20: Delaware shotgun deer season

Jan. 22-27: Delaware late muzzleloader deer season

Through Jan. 27: Maryland and Delaware regular duck season

Through Jan. 28: Virginia regular duck and AP Canada goose seasons 

Through Jan. 31: Maryland brant season

Through Jan. 31: Virginia tundra swan season

Through Feb. 3: Maryland and Delaware AP Canada goose seasons

Through Feb. 3: Maryland regular light/snow goose season