Actually if you look at the data, spring fishing is safer than in the summer. More people die during the warm summer months that this time of year. Over all boating death per 100000, is safer than driving to the bait shop to pick up gear to go fishing. I think most people who fish in the early spring know that it takes extra care, so they do. With this in mind, I never could figure out the sociology of the Nelly nay sayers. I think they are afraid to go them selves, and in turn they don't want anyone else to enjoy themselves either. The reasons don't really matter as to why they continue to try and scare people. Just go and have a good time fishing. See ya on the water.