Anglers who head out to fish Maine’s ponds, lakes and brooks early in the open-water season have learned that for several weeks, the fishing can be quite slow. The cold water has left the fish sluggish, it seems, and it might take just the right fly or bait to garner any interest from a passing fish. Since open-water fishing season began early in Maine this year, giving us some COVID-19 respite, the BDN decided to ask some of the state’s fishing experts — biologists and guides alike — for some tips that might tip the scale in your favor should you decide to wet a line in the coming days and weeks. And as has become the custom in these changing times, make sure to practice all relevant social distancing rules.