Lone Star Outdoor News 051024

Anglers have been catching freshwater catfish alongside redfish and speckled trout in Sabine Lake and East Galveston Bay due to low salinities caused by significant freshwater runoff.

Birthday blackbuck

By Nate Skinner

For Lone Star outdoor newS

Louisiana native Mallory Morrow came to Texas for a hunt near Yancey with Lone Oak Adventures, in hopes of harvesting her first big game animal. The hunt was a birthday gift from her boyfriend, Jacob Mouton. After hunting hard for a couple of days with her guide, Dan Bristow, she was able to connect with a mature blackbuck.

Prior to the hunt, Morrow had been whitetail hunting a couple of times, but had yet to harvest one. Her boyfriend had hunted exotics in Texas before and wanted her to be able to enjoy the same experience — which prompted him to plan the hunt for her as a birthday present.

Morrow arrived for her hunt focused on pursuing a blackbuck.

“I just really think the blackbuck is a beautiful animal, and de

cided that it was the species that I wanted to hunt,” she said.

On the first day of her hunt, Morrow said they spent quite a bit of time covering the ranch in search of a trophy blackbuck.

“We were able to put eyes on a trophy blackbuck and made plans to go after him the following day,” Morrow said.

The following two days involved playing a cat-and-mouse game with the blackbuck.

“We tried several times to put a stalk on him after glassing him in a field from several hundred yards away,” she said. “He had some does with him, and each time we went to make a move to get in closer for a shot, those does would wind us or see us.”

Morrow didn’t get discouraged, though. She and her guide had decided to try to hunt the blackbuck from a blind one evening, after seeing him earlier in the day, and

Freshwater runoff changes everything

By Nate Skinner For Lone Star outdoor newS

Recent heavy rains and flooding events have inundated upper coast estuaries with freshwater runoff from rivers and tributaries. Salinities in portions of the Galveston Bay Complex and Sabine Lake have plummeted, and

large stretches of water have been churned into an off-colored, muddy looking mess. As a result, fishing tactics have changed.

Capt. Billy Penick has been targeting the waters of upper Galveston Bay as well as those along the Houston Ship Channel near Baytown. He’s been having most of his success while fishing over

deep structure.

“Some of the saltiest water we have right now can be found near the bottom of the water column, because saltwater is more dense than freshwater,” Penick said. “The freshwater runoff can be found floating on top of saltier water below it, and most of our fish are hanging tight to the

were headed to the stand when they spotted him in a field. “As soon as we spotted him

we stopped, but he heard us and moved off out of sight,” Morrow said. “We waited a little while, and

my guide, Dan, felt like he had an idea of where he may have moved. Luckily we were able to make a

Flooding impacts southeast, Central Texas

Lone Star outdoor newS

Derald McMaster, of Big Time Whitetails and Exotics south of Livingston in Shepherd, posted photos and videos of flood waters racing through his facilities. Shepherd, downstream from Lake Livingston, was in the heart of the many flood warnings in early May.

“It’s been a rough couple of

days,” he wrote. Areas near Lake Livingston received upwards of 23 inches of rain, according to the National Weather Service.

Some areas in northeastern Harris County, received a range of 6 inches to almost 17 inches of rain in that same period.

First responders, sheriff’s departments, game wardens and others conducted more than 400 rescues. Additionally, storms brought as much as 9 inches of rain in a span of six to eight hours in some areas from Central Texas to the DallasFort Worth area, washing out some roads west of Waco. In Johnson County, a 4-year-old boy died when he was swept away after the

Largest Hunting and Fishing

Hundreds of people and pets were rescued following floods at the beginning of May. Photo by TPWD.

Mallory Morrow harvested her first big game animal, a blackbuck, on a hunt with Lone Oak Adventures that was gifted to her for her birthday. Photos by Emma Strickland.

Photo by Capt. Mitchell Stotts.

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HUNTING

Quail nesting in Valley after lackluster season

By Tony Vindell For Lone Star outdoor newS

While driving around a ranch on the northwest edge of Willacy County, a pair of bobwhite quail stuck their heads out of the grass that went from lush green to whitish brown over the period of a few days.

A white looking spot could be seen from the cab of the pickup truck. Thinking it was a piece of trash, a closer look yielded a surprising revelation — a cluster of 20 small quail eggs neatly laid around in a tiny area.

About a half hour later, a hen quail sat on the nest, perfectly camouflaged.

After observing the bird for a couple of seconds, it got up and started walking away from the nest, making a clucking sound and disappearing into the grass.

Jumping coveys during a hunt, seeing birds eating corn along senderos and running into droppings formed in circles during cold days are not uncommon. But spotting a nest was an unusual discovery.

Although the 2023-24 quail season ended at the end of February, in extreme South Texas it was nothing to brag about. In fact, it turned out to be more disappointing than what experts forecasted before it began on Oct. 26.

At some ranches, gone were the numerous coveys jumped or the birds flashing across roadways. Some ranchers throughout this county decided not to let hunters shoot the birds in hopes of helping them come back.

So what happened to the average to above-average predictions by state and private quail experts?

Robert Perez, quail program leader with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, has said habitat and weather contribute to quail patterns.

“Although last year’s quail season was not very productive, quail have an uncanny ability to quickly bounce back when conditions are good,” he said before last season.

Several hunters said the season was good in other parts of far South Texas, while others said there was no quail hunting at all this past season.

Doug Hardie, who hunts around Cotulla and in Willacy County, said the first place produced about 10 coveys per day.

The other one yielded one covey every three hours or so.

In some of the large ranches north of Raymondville, lease holders were advised against shooting birds due to poor production.

Hopefully the nest sighting is a sign of improvement in bird numbers for next season.

Hunting guide licenses on the horizon?

A Texas legislator went on a guided goose hunt and, after arriving in the dark, realized they were hunting near a feed lot, which would be considered baiting. A game warden arrived and the guide was ticketed, but wardens later learned the area was hunted multiple more times over the season by the same outfitter.

A group of reputable outfitters are spearheading efforts to introduce accountability for repeated illegal activity by guides and outfitters.

In the Texas legislature, Sen. Pete Flores (R-Pleasanton) and Rep. Cecil Bell Jr. (RMagnolia), introduced the “Conference Committee Revisions and Additions Study on Illegal Game Bird Hunting in Texas” as part of HB 1, the General Appropriations Bill.

The funding was approved by Gov. Greg Abbott and the rider requires Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to “conduct a

A group of outfitters is seeking a licensing process for bird-hunting guides and outfitters to curb repeated illegal activities.

review of illegal game bird hunting and historical violation levels, recreational and commercial game bird hunting license requirements, and any associated rules and statute as well as present its findings and any recommendations to the Legislative Budget Board and the Office of the Governor by September 1.”

“We had heard of people having issues and customers being ripped off,” Flores’ chief of staff said. “This gets the ball rolling.”

Flores said once the study is completed, legislation would be required to establish any licensing requirements.

“It’s not the easiest thing to do,” he said.

“Many legislators don’t support new licenses or fees.”

Justin Hill, an outfitter with Ranger Creek Goose, in Haskell, said the problems are getting worse in his area and in the Texas Panhandle.

“People are habitually breaking laws, trespassing, hunting feed lots, a gamut of things, and there is no recourse or

Hunters, shooters boost economy

By Craig Nyhus Lone Star outdoor n

It’s no surprise that Texans spend a lot of money on hunting and target shooting, but the amounts catch the attention of sportsmen and politicians alike.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation, in its “Firearm and Ammu nition Industry Eco nomic Impact Report 2024,” assessed the economic impact of the activities at both the national and state levels.

At the national lev el, there were 4.3 mil lion new gun owners in 2023, and wildlife conservation fund ing through excise tax contributions to the Wildlife Restora tion Trust Fund for hunting and target shooting exceeded $944 million in 2023. The industry employs 384,000 people.

In 2023, the firearm and ammunition industry was responsible for as much as $90.06 billion in total economic activity in the country. The broader economic impact flows throughout the economy, generating business for firms seemingly unrelated to firearms.

By Craig Nyhus Lone Star outdoor newS

This cluster of quail eggs was discovered this month on a ranch in deep South Texas, and the bobwhite hen later stepped away from her nest. Photos by Tony Vindell, for Lone Star Outdoor News.

Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.

Hunting supports 37,900 jobs in Texas and contributes $2.5 billion to the economy. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.

By Tony Vindell

Crawfish for wild turkeys

For Lone Star outdoor newS

Mud bugs, shrimp and crab legs were the plat du jour at the annual Las Huellas Crawfish Boil.

The conservation organization, initially created to reintroduce wild turkey to areas of South Texas where the birds have not been a common sight, held its fundraising event attended by about 500 people.

“This is our annual get together,” Ed Mathers, Las Huellas‘ board of directors president, said. “We do enjoy the evening and to thank the community.”

The 20-plus year-old organization has been releasing turkeys in areas of Cameron County, including along the banks of the Rio Grande.

Since then, flocks of turkeys have been spotted inside Brownsville city limits and along U.S. Highway 281, also known as Military Highway.

One of its latest ventures was the creation of a $500,000 Las Huellas Association Endowment Fund at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley to provide scholarships for students studying wildlife conservation.

The crawfish boil had an addition this year — more than 200 pounds of Alaskan king crab legs.

Mathers said they opted for that as they decided to reduce the poundage of crawfish from 1,200 pounds last year to 800 pounds.

The boil included 450 pounds of shrimp, 180 pounds of sausage and more than 800

Comment now on mountain lion regs

Comments on proposed changes to mountain lion trapping regulations end May 22. Photo by TPWD.

Hunters and trappers have until May 22 to comment on proposed new regulations, measures opposed by trapping and some hunting groups, concerned that coyote trappers could be classified as poachers under certain conditions.

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, mountain lions are relatively uncommon, secretive animals and have the widest distribution of any wildcat from Canada to South America. In Texas, mountain lions are found throughout the Trans-Pecos, the brushlands of South Texas and the western Hill Country.

Currently, Texas law does not officially prohibit canned hunting, meaning the capture and later release of a mountain lion for the purpose of hunting, although possession of a live cat is illegal in the state. TPWD has proposed banning the act in Texas.

Texas does not require traps set for mountain lions to be checked. Concerns have been raised that some mountain lions are left to perish in traps. TPWD has proposed a regulation requiring trappers to ensure that lions are not kept alive in traps or snares for more than 36 hours.

Traps that cannot restrain a lion or are immediately lethal would not be subject to the regulation.

The proposal also provides a blanket exemption to the 36-hour requirement for traps that have a breakaway device allowing a cable snare to disassemble when subjected to a force of 285 pounds or less. Mountain lions are likely able to pull with 285 pounds of force or more. Conversely, coyotes typically can pull on snares with only 192-250 pounds of force.

Input will be considered before any action is taken by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission at its May public meeting.

Comments may be online on the TPWD public comment page, by phone to Richard Heilbrun, TPWD Diversity Program Leader, at (512) 389-8104, or in person at the TPW Commission meeting May 23.

cross plains • albany • pearsall • vidalia, la

Lone Star outdoor newS

Las Huellas’ Ed Mathers cooks a batch of mud bugs during the wild turkey-supporting group’s annual crawfish boil held in Brownsville. Photo by Tony Vindell, for Lone Star Outdoor News.

Fighting floods

vehicle he was riding in became stuck in swift-moving water near the community of Lillian.

The child and two adults were trying to get to dry ground when they were swept away, according to officials. The two adults were rescued and taken to a hospital, but the child was found dead around 7:20 a.m. in the water.

Despite the devastation, some lakes rebounded from low lake levels. Lake Brownwood rose 3.24 feet in a few days, and boaters were advised to be cautious of debris in the water. Lake Coleman saw a significant rise, with runoff waters still on the move.

Both Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow are now full.

Canyon Lake, however, at its all-time low, saw only a negligible rise after a few inches of rain, and Lake Travis remains at historically low levels.

The Old Sabine Bottom WMA, Richland Creek WMA and Big Lake Bottom WMA were closed, while several others have been partially closed. Huntsville, Village Creek and Fort Parker state parks are closed.

Outdoor Adventures hits all 50 states

Lone Star outdoor newS

Outdoor Adventures, the outdoor education curriculum developed and implemented by the Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation, has expanded into all 50 states and more than 1,400 schools in the U.S. and Canada.

The curriculum, launched in 2010, has since gained traction nationwide. The announcement was made at the Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation’s annual benefit concert on April 25 with special guest Randy Rogers. The annual concert raises funds for the Outdoor Adventures classes and celebrates the efforts of the Foundation.

“Now kids in all 50 states, as well as our first school in Canada, are experiencing the thrill of releasing their first arrow, catching their first fish, and learning about wildlife conservation because of their Outdoor Adventures class,” said Sean McLelland, executive director of OTF. “We are inspired by achieving this milestone and it motivates us to continue working with our partners in conservation, the outdoor industry, and physical education to bring more children into the outdoors.”

Outdoor Adventures often provides a niche for those students not involved in other extracurricular activities. Kids learn both practical skills they will use their whole life, as well as gain an understanding of wildlife conservation.

Outdoor Adventures is a fun, interactive course where students are taught lifelong skills using an integrated, 40-unit curriculum comprising math, science, writing and critical thinking skills. The 400-plus lessons cover lifelong skills including angler education, archery, hunter education, boater education, orienteering, survival skills, camping, outdoor cooking, challenge courses, backpacking, mountain biking, paddle sports, rock climbing, shooting sports, CPR/first aid and fauna, flora and wilderness medicine.

Celebration

move undetected, and found him in another field about 205 yards away.”

There was just enough cover at the edge of the field, so the blackbuck was unaware of their presence. Morrow said she had to take her time and calm her nerves as she took aim at the buck standing broadside.

“Dan told me to put the crosshairs on his shoulder and pull the trigger,” Morrow said. “The 7mm rifle fired and the blackbuck dropped in his tracks. From there everything was a blur filled with joy and emotions. I was in total disbelief that I had just accomplished my goal for the trip.”

Walking up to the animal after watching him from a distance and pursuing him for many hours brought new emotions.

“It was unlike any feeling I had ever experienced before,” she said. “It was like being on a super-fast, emotional roller coaster. I can’t wait to do it again.”

Rules for guides

accountability other than a potential fine,” he said. “That’s how I got involved.”

Hill said one guide had been in jail in another state for shooting whooping cranes, but then came to Texas where there are no checks or requirements.

“The game wardens across the state are fully supporting this,” he said.

Panhandle landowners find guides and customers on their fields when the geese and/or sandhill cranes are feeding in them, often without any contact made or permission obtained.

“It’s cheaper to pay a $200 trespass fee than it is to lease the property,” Hill said.

Other examples of illegal activity include guides taking advantage of potential customers on social media, getting money and then leaving the hunters high and dry.

“And I’ve had people show up at my dove fields claiming someone else took their money and told them to come there,”

Hill said.

Turkey hunters aren’t exempt from issues, either. On several self-guided hunts, guides took money, gave a pin drop of a location to the hunters and told them to hop the fence. The problem was, there was no permission granted by the landowner.

Numerous other states require hunting guides and outfitters to be licensed, with varying levels of requirements.

“In Alaska, you get one ticket and you can lose your license,” Hill said.

Hill said his outfitter friends aren’t looking for that level of strictness but want accountability for those who repeatedly ignore game laws.

“We need to require background checks, insurance, first aid certification, and the bad guys need to be subject to consequences, more than just paying a small fine,” he said. “We’re not trying to discourage people from starting a business, but if you get in trouble multiple times, there needs to be accountability.”

Boiling for dollars

Continued from page 5

pieces of corn and potatoes.

He said crawfish consumption was at an all-time high earlier this year, particularly during the Lenten season. The highly sought crustaceans were selling for about $4.50 a pound, compared to $2.25 now.

The boil included prizes, bucket raffles, silent auctions for guided fishing trips, a nilgai hunt for two, a handgun, hunting rifles, a shotgun and a number of mystery coolers. Another attraction was a bingo event, in which a hen is put inside a cage with the floor divided into 80 squares.

Each square sold for $20 and whichever square collected the first chicken dropping, the winner got a $500 prize.

“This is a lot of fun,” said Jimmy Stout, who manages the Rio Grande Valley wildlife reserve parks for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, said. “I won a rifle last year.”

A building at Huntsville State Park was largely underwater after heavy rains in the area. Photo by TPWD.

The industry also generates sizeable tax revenues. In the U.S., the

and its employees pay over $10.9 billion in taxes, including property,

and sales-based levies. Of the $998 million in excise tax paid to Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Fund in 2023, $944 million came from firearms and ammunition. Texas ranked second among the states in Total Economic

and

Tax paid, according to the report. Hunting in Texas:

• Jobs supported: 37,900, $1.4 billion in salaries and wages

• $2.5 billion contribution to GDP

• $225 million state and local taxes paid

• $360 million federal taxes paid Target Shooting in Texas:

• Jobs supported, 18,400, $782 million in salaries and wages

• $136 million state and local taxes paid

• $192 million federal taxes paid

In the U.S. there are 15 million hunters, who spent $49.4 billion on hunting purchases in 2020. There are 20 million target shooters, who spent $15.7 billion on shooting purchases in 2020.

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Target shooting supports 18,400 jobs in Texas. In the U.S., 20 million target shooters spend $15.7 billion annually. Photo by Lone Star Outdoor News.

FISHING

Catfish consistent, trophies scattered

Young artists and fish

S

Trophy-sized catfish have been harder to pattern across inland lakes, but anglers have been able to catch plenty of eater-sized blue and channel cats from 1-10 pounds. A shad spawn is taking place on many lakes, and the catfish can be found swarming where the shad

Schools of eating sized fish are starting out shallow during the mornings, then moving deeper

Lake Lewisville guide Dak Poston said stretches of water from 1-4 feet deep near the mouths of creeks have been holding good numbers of blue catfish. His go-to bait has been fresh gizzard shad on a Santee

“We are starting to see the larger fish become scattered, but eating-sized catfish have been stacked up in the shallows and the bite has been excellent,” Poston said. “Most of the blue cats that we are catching right now are in the 16- to 30-inch range. We are still catching catfish weighing over 20 pounds

Poston’s anglers have been consistently catching 50-100 blue catfish on just about every

“We are catching some channel cats, too,” he said. “The channel cats tend to bite better when there isn’t as much current running out of the mouths of the creeks.”

On Lake Fork, guide Russell Rollins said large schools of smaller channel catfish have been stacked up in 15 feet of water near timber over baited holes. His anglers have been getting most of their bites on cheese bait.

“These fish have been holding steady to this pattern for over a month,” Rollins said. “We’re catching channel cats from 13 inches on up to about 10 pounds.”

Lake Tawakoni guide Keith Parks said catfish are all over the lake in both shallow and deep water. He has been focusing on shallow water early, and then working his way out deeper as the sun climbs higher into the sky.

“Early in the morning the fish are in water as shallow as 2 feet, and then later in the day I’m finding them in anywhere from 23 to 40 feet,” Parks said. “Fresh shad has been producing the most bites.” Parks’ anglers have mostly been catching blue cats in the 1-5-pound range. He’s finding the biggest concentrations of catfish in areas holding the most

Redfish action with friends

the participant’s

Lone Star outdoor newS

The 2024 winners of the Texas division of Wildlife Forever’s Fish Art Contest were chosen from 1,504 total entries by judges at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.

The contest encourages K-12 students to submit original artwork of any fish and an essay or poem (grades 4-12) about

fish

Chris Blood and his wife, Mary, took a group fishing April 30 out of Port Aransas with some friends who were visiting from Alabama, including his high school buddy and college roommate. With guide Brian Cibulka, they had the best luck off the tip of the jetties and back into the bay later in the morning. “We used cut bait and live shrimp for bait,” Blood said. “The cut bait seemed to do the trick.” The group caught 95 pounds of redfish, including two 36-inch and one 35-inch fish. In the photo, Holly Wheaton celebrates in the background while Mary Blood holds her big red and Thomas Wheaton watches from the boat. Photo by Chris Blood.

Brad Brite landed this 19-pound catfish while fishing near the mouth of a creek on Lake Lewisville. Photo by Dak Poston.

Luke Zhang (top) won the Fish Art contest for Grades 4-6 for her trout painting, and Mia Macias won in the Grades 10-12 division. Photos from TPWD.

Big bass, tiny lake

By Meghan Olivia Sharber

For Lone Star outdoor newS

Anglers tired of the crowds at the new Bois d’Arc Reservoir in northeast Texas may want to consider an excursion just a few miles to the northeast.

At Davy Crockett Lake, located in Fannin County near the Red River, the Inland Fisheries Denison District shared on Facebook multiple big bass recently brought in during a daytime shocking survey. The lake, managed for big bass, has a 16-inch maximum length limit.

The small reservoir, at 355 acres with a maximum depth of 20 feet, can’t handle big crowds, but the bass are impressive. One largemouth had a giant gizzard shad coming out of its mouth when pulled from the water.

Fishermen on the lake keep their catches to themselves, and while none would discuss their fishing, some replied to the photos.

“There goes that secret honey hole,” Phil Miller posted.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department fisheries biologist Dan Bennett said restrictive harvest regulation of larger bass specifically on the lake is working.

“We have a 16-inch maximum length limit which means you can harvest five bass a day under 16 inches, but anything you catch over that has to be released,” he said. “Davy Crockett has big bass and very stable water levels which allow exotic vegetation to be maintained over time. They’re real dependent on aquatic vegetation for the younger fish to hide in and have the opportunity to grow large enough to avoid predation of the bigger fish.”

Bennett also said the lake provides refuge habitat for the larger fish during the spawning season.

“The 16-inch maximum length limit is a specific regulation designed and intended to

Big limit at Richland Chambers

At the final stop of the 2024 Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Texas Team Trail regular season on Richland Chambers Reservoir, the team of Russell Lee and Landon Ware defended their title from last year with a five-bass limit weighing 35 pounds, 10 ounces.

For the win, the team took home a 2024 Nitro Z-18 with 150hp Mercury motor, a new Garmin graph, Power-Pole Charge system, and Angler’s Advantage cash, totaling $45,078 in cash & prizes.

“We fished a lot of rocky areas with an Xcite Baits Raptor Tail Worm to catch all of our keepers, Lee said.

Denton and Matt Cooper finished second with 27 pounds, 5 ounces to earn $5,666.00.

“It was all about the frog today,” Matt Cooper said. “We found one solid 20-yard stretch of grass in practice that we caught a few 3 pounders in during practice and then went back today and milked it for all it was worth.”

For the local team of Terry and Tracey Hawkins, fishing deeper water with big worms captured the third-place spot and $2,652.

“As big of a bag as we had, it was sure a grind out there,” said Terry Hawkins. “For us it was all about picking up a confidence bait and grinding it out.”

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Shocking surveys at Davy Crockett Lake revealed plenty of goodsized bass. Photo from Inland Fisheries Denison Division.

TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHING REPORT

ALAN HENRY: Water clear; 62 degrees; 4.82’ low. Crappie are fair on minnows.

AMISTAD: Water lightly stained; 79 degrees; 66.24’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits, swimbaits, under spins and wacky worms. White bass are good on small crankbaits. Stripers are slow.

ARLINGTON: Water stained; 70 degrees; 1.41’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on moving baits.

ARROWHEAD: Water lightly stained; 73 degrees; 7.77’ low. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on cut shad and punch bait.

ATHENS: Water stained; 74 degrees; 0.62’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on shaky heads, Carolina rigs and jigs. Crappie are fair on jigs.

AUSTIN: Water stained; 72 degrees; 0.72’ low. Largemouth bass are good on chatter baits, spinner baits and top-waters.

B A STEINHAGEN: Water stained; 66 degrees; 0.44’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on Texas-rigged worms and crankbaits. Catfish are fair on cut bait and prepared baits.

BASTROP: Water stained; 75 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on flukes, swimbaits and top-waters.

BELTON: Water lightly stained; 69 degrees; 8.02’ high. Hybrids are fair on live shad. White bass are fair on slabs. Catfish are fair on cut bait and prepared baits.

BENBROOK: Water stained; 64 degrees; 3.22’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on Texas rigs, jigs, spinner baits and wacky rigs. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait.

BOB SANDLIN: Water stained; 64 degrees; 0.54’ high. Largemouth bass are good on chrome lipless crankbaits, Texas-rigged worms, chatter baits and spinner baits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on worms and cheese bait.

BRAUNIG: Water stained, 82 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and plastic worms. Redfish are fair on plastics and spoons. Catfish are good on cheese bait and liver.

BROWNWOOD: Water stained; 70 degrees; 8.96’ low. Largemouth bass are good on jigs, spinner baits and crankbaits. Crappie are good on minnows. White bass are good on crankbaits and small swimbaits. Catfish are good on cut or prepared bait.

BRYAN: Water stained; 70 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on worms. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

BUCHANAN: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 24.57’ low. Largemouth bass are good

on jigs, swimbaits and flukes. Striped bass are good on live shad. White bass are good on live bait, jigging spoons and top-waters. Crappie are good on jigs.

CADDO: Water stained; 61 degrees; 1.86’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on buzzbaits, frogs, swimbaits and flukes.

CALAVERAS: Water slightly stained, 84 degrees. Redfish are fair on plastics, shrimp and crawfish. Catfish are fair on cut shad and cheese bait.

CANYON: Water stained; 70 degrees; 22.37’ low. Largemouth bass are good on moving baits and neko rigs.

CEDAR CREEK: Water lightly stained; 75 degrees; 0.43’ high. Hybrid striped bass and white bass are good on slabs and spinners. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on fresh cut or whole shad.

CHOKE CANYON: Water stained; 74 degrees; 28.84’ low. Largemouth bass are good on imitation shad baits, Carolina or Texas rigs. Crappie are good on minnows and grubs. Catfish are good on cut bait or stink bait.

CONROE: Water stained; 74 degrees; 0.65’ high. Largemouth bass are good on soft plastics. Hybrids are good on slabs, swimbaits, minnows and shad. Crappie are fair on jigs or minnows. Catfish are good on worms, liver and shad.

COOPER: Water stained; 68 degrees: 1.00’ low. Catfish are good on cut shad.

CORPUS CHRISTI: Water stained; 67 degrees; 9.31’ low. White bass are fair on live minnows and jigs. Crappie are slow. Alligator gar are good on cut carp. Catfish are fair on punch bait.

EAGLE MOUNTAIN: Water stained; 72 degrees; 3.07’ low. White bass are good on slabs and minnows. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait and shad.

FALCON: Water stained; 75 degrees; 39.90’ low. Largemouth bass are good on creature baits, jigs and spinner baits. Catfish are good on cut bait and palm sized live tilapia.

FT PHANTOM HILL: Water stained; 67 degrees; 6.66’ low. Largemouth bass are good on worms, spinner baits and crankbaits. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Hybrids are good on umbrella rigs. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

GRANBURY: Water clear; 73 degrees; 0.22’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on spinner baits, crankbaits and soft plastics. White bass are good on slabs. Striped bass are fair on live bait and trolled Alabama rigs. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on cut shad.

GRANGER: Water lightly stained; 65 degrees; 1.64’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on spinner baits and top-waters. Crappie are good on jigs. White bass are fair on spoons. Catfish are good on live perch.

HOUSTON COUNTY: Water clear; 67 degrees; 0.48’ high. Largemouth bass are good on frogs, wacky worms, weightless Texas rigs and swim jigs. White bass are good on slabs. Crappie are fair on minnows.

HUBBARD CREEK: Water stained; 67 degrees; 12.09’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits, shaky heads, spinner baits and Carolina rigs. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

JOE POOL: Water stained; 65 degrees; 2.36’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Crappie are fair on jigs. White bass are good on slabs.

LAKE O’ THE PINES: Water stained; 71 degrees; 6.29’ high. Largemouth bass are good on creature baits. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on worms and cheese bait.

LAVON: Water lightly stained; 55 degrees; 1.98’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on swimbaits and smaller Alabama rigs. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. White bass are fair on spinnerbaits and jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and over baited holes.

LBJ: Water stained; 74 degrees; 0.25’ low.

FAYETTE: Water stained; 70 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on flukes, Texas-rigged worms or creatures and shallow crankbaits.

FORK: Water stained; 60 degrees; 0.67’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on shaky heads and Carolina rigs. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on prepared bait and cut shad.

Largemouth bass are good on wackyrigged stick worms, jigs and flukes. Crappie are fair on jigs.

LEWISVILLE: Water stained; 70 degrees; 2.19’ high. White bass are fair on small swimbaits, slabs and jigs. Hybrid stripers are fair on jigs and slabs. Catfish are good on shad.

LIMESTONE: Water lightly stained; 72 degrees; 0.50’ high. Largemouth bass are good on swim jigs, Texas rigs,

spinner baits and chatter baits. Crappie are good on minnows. White bass are good on topwaters and beetle spins. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

LIVINGSTON: Water lightly stained; 67 degrees; 1.70’ high. White bass are fair on slabs. Catfish are good on shad.

MARTIN CREEK: Water stained; 76 degrees; 0.13’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on senkos and Texas-rigged redbug trick worms. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on live and cut bait.

MEREDITH: Water stained; 60 degrees; 45.69’ low. Largemouth bass are good on minnows and artificials. Crappie are fair on artificial baits and minnows. Walleye are good on minnows, grubs and artificials. Catfish are fair on crawlers, minnows, chicken liver and frozen shad.

MILLERS CREEK: Water stained; 63 degrees; 7.26’ low. Crappie and catfish are slow.

NACOGDOCHES: Water stained; 68 degrees; 0.19’ high. Largemouth bass are good on chatter baits, spooks and frogs. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs.

top-waters and worms. Stripers are fair on live bait. White bass are fair on live shad, small slabs and jigs. Catfish are good on cut shad.

PROCTOR: Water stained; 65 degrees; 12.18’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Hybrid stripers are fair on jigs. Catfish are slow.

RAVEN: Water stained; 71 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on weightless flukes. Crappie are fair on jigs, live minnows and crappie bites. Catfish are fair on worms and stink bait.

RAY HUBBARD: Water stained; 67 degrees; 0.60’ high. White bass are good on small spinner baits and swimbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are fair on cut shad.

RAY ROBERTS: Water lightly stained; 60 degrees; 1.41’ high. White bass are fair on swimbaits and top-waters. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

NACONICHE: Water lightly stained; 72 degrees; full pool. Largemouth bass are good on square-billed crankbaits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are slow.

NASWORTHY: Water lightly stained; 78 degrees. 0.45’ low. Largemouth bass are good on chatter baits and soft plastics. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are fair on cut bait and stink bait.

NAVARRO MILLS: Water lightly stained; 66 degrees; 4.31’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on Carolina- rigged worms and lizards. White bass are fair on minnows and jigs. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and punch bait.

O H IVIE: Water lightly stained; 71 degrees; 31.69’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on chatter baits, top-waters and soft plastics. White bass are good on top-waters and lipless crankbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on stink bait, cut shad and shrimp.

PALESTINE: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 0.94 feet’ high. White bass and hybrid striper are good on crankbaits. Catfish are good on worms and cut bait.

POSSUM KINGDOM: Water clear; 70 degrees; 0.02’ low. Largemouth bass are good on

RICHLAND CHAMBERS: Water stained; 70 degrees; 0.77’ high. White bass are good on slab and jig combinations. Hybrid striper are good on live bait. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish are fair on shad.

SAM RAYBURN: Water stained; 72 degrees; 3.29’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on top-water frogs and Carolina rigs. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. White bass are fair on jigging spoons and crankbaits. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

SOMERVILLE: Water stained; 73 degrees; 1.27’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and soft plastics. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish are good on stink bait.

SPENCE: Water stained; 67 degrees. 47.99’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on square-billed crankbaits in shad patterns. Catfish are good on fresh cut bait.

STILLHOUSE: Water stained; 70 degrees; 0.05’ low. Largemouth bass are good on frogs and weightless worms. White bass are fair on slabs.

TAWAKONI: Water lightly stained; 68 degrees; 1.95’ high. Largemouth bass are good on moving baits. Hybrid striper and white bass are good on slabs and swimbaits. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on fresh cut bait.

TEXANA: Water stained; 68 degrees; 0.67’ low. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

TEXOMA: Water stained;

19

67 degrees; 0.33’ low. Striped bass are good on top-waters and live bait. Crappie are good on jigs. Hybrid stripers are good on top-waters and swimbaits. Catfish are fair on cut shad and prepared baits.

TOLEDO BEND: Water lightly stained; 75 degrees; 0.19’ high. Largemouth bass are good on spinner baits, chatter baits and small swimbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs and live bait.

TRAVIS: Water stained; 70 degrees; 50.66’ low. Largemouth bass are good on swimbaits, drop shots and craws. White bass are good on slabs.

TWIN BUTTES: Water stained. 72 degrees; 33.73’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics and top-waters. White bass are good on top-waters. Crappie are fair on jigs and live minnows. Catfish are good on cheese bait.

WACO: Water stained; 66 degrees; 2.55’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on Texas rigs, small swimbaits, bladed jigs and creature baits. White bass and hybrids are fair on slabs. Crappie are fair on live minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on live and cut bait.

WALTER E LONG: Water stained; 71 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on plastic worms. Hybrids are fair on jigs and slabs. Crappie are good on jigs.

WELSH: Water stained. 70 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on Texas-rigged worms and chatter baits.

WHITNEY: Water stained; 70 degrees; 1.76’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on moving baits. Striped bass are good on live bait and down-rigging jigs. Crappie are fair on small jigs and minnows. White bass are fair on slabs. Catfish are good on cut shad.

WORTH: Water stained; 72 degrees; 2.20’ low. White bass are good on slabs and minnows. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait and shad.

WRIGHT PATMAN: Water stained; 74 degrees; 3.08’ high. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on cheese bait and noodles. —TPWD

FROM WORK TO PLAY

WHATEVER YOUR ADVENTURE IS, WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED.

Model: DE50L6IMB

Pushing the limits

Fusion Thermal’s new optics make the complex seem simple. The new Avenger 55XR and Avenger 40 utilize the company’s T3 Three Button Control System, along with the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) menu.

“It’s super easy to use,” said Ryan Warner, who is an industry sales rep and avid hog hunter. “The owner of the company helped design it after being frustrated with having to look down to focus or operate the thermal. The Avenger has a dark, raised middle button — you don’t have to look down and you always know where your fingers are.”

Warner said the lens type and quality also make the Avenger models stand out.

“They are incredibly clear, thanks to the use of the higher quality Germanium lens and a larger lens size with more curvature to maximize the amount of heat it picks up.”

Warner has been using thermal optics for years while hog hunting.

“I’ve used every thermal out there,” he said. “I used the Fusion product before I was a sales rep. It held up to everything I threw its way.”

With any thermal product, heat is an issue. The Avenger series utilizes aircraft-grade aluminum housing, while most other brands use plastic.

“Once you heat up a thermal, the performance goes down,” Warner said. “The aluminum housing allows it to escape, whereas plastic holds in the heat.”

Thermal sensors require lots of power, and the Avenger Series has ample power with the 18650 battery design, run in parallel, providing an industry-leading, 8-hour run time.

Angel Padilla, of Johnny’s Sport Shop in Eagle Lake, works full-time at the shop and also guides hog hunters at night with Sandy Creek Outfitters.

“The units perform really well in humidity and fog, which a lot of other brands struggle with,” Padilla said. “You can still see the animals in high humidity. And I like the threebutton system because you never have to look up to see where your fingers are.”

Hunters like to record their nighttime hog hunts, and the Avenger series includes a full media package, including photo, video and audio capabilities, along with Fusion Thermal’s HeatSync App, to make connectivity a snap.

“The Avenger is by far the best bang for your buck,” Warner said. “I have a unit that was almost twice the price, and the Fusion outperforms it. It’s a great value.

The Avenger 55XR costs less than $6,000 and the Avenger 40 is around $4,000.

THERMAL HUNTING

Game-changing simplicity. Industry leading runtime. Onboard video, photo and HD audio recording. Meet the new AVENGER from Fusion Thermal.

AVENGER 40

WAVE12 384 Sensor

9+ Hour Runtime

MSRP: $4099

AVENGER 55XR

WAVE12 640 Sensor

7+ Hour Runtime

MSRP: $5989

Available at fine retailers all across the Great State of Texas

Fusion Thermal Exclusive Features

Micro Click Focus

Leave the Collars to the Dogs

Getting your target into focus quickly and easily is a must, and you won’t find a better system than our Micro Click Focus. Our tactile focus knob is conveniently located on top of the front lens, and unlike the dog collar design used by our competitors you won’t need to perform a circus act just to focus your scope. Plus, you’ll always get your best shot as the micro click adjustments put you on the perfect focus point every time.

ARCLIGHT Ultra HD Germanium Lens

High Purity for Maximum Energy

The single most expensive component of a well-crafted thermal is its germanium lens. If you skimp here, you’re not even in the game. Our high purity ArcLight Ultra HD Germanium Lens is the crowning jewel of our technology package. It perfects the task of collecting and funneling infrared energy into the thermal sensor unhindered by distortion. This clean transition results in an infrared energy dump that unleashes the full potential of our WAVE thermal sensor delivering a user experience well beyond expectations.

KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) Menu

Industry’s Easiest Menu System

We think you’re really going to like our menu; it uses words, English words. Written for Americans by Americans. That’s why we called it KISS. You’ve heard the phrase, and at Fusion Thermal it’s the reason we can make the industry’s boldest statement: Our operating system is so easy to use you’ll likely never read the instructions.

T3 Control System

Don’t Let Your Fingers Get Lost in the Dark

Our highly intuitive three button control system with center tower makes using your scope simple and easy. Every command is at your fingertips, and the Center Tower evenly splits the control panel, so you’ll never be confused about what button you’re going to press. We thought this a particularly good idea since you’ll be using it in the dark most of the time.

WAVE Thermal Sensor

Same Money, Better Performance

Is it possible for one thermal scope to dramatically outperform everything else in its class? Yes, so don’t make the mistake of shopping by specifications alone or you just might get burned. Our WAVE thermal sensors push the limit of what is technically possible and set the standard for image quality, ruggedness, and long life. So, before you plop down your hard-earned cash make sure you do a side-by-side to any similarly priced competitive alternative. We think you’ll find the difference to be clearly obvious.

XGEN Alloy Housing

Plastic is for toys. Metal is for tools. It’s a fact, thermals produce heat, and heat is the enemy of all thermal devices. If you don’t get the heat out operational performance will degrade, and long-term internal damage is a certainty. Our XGEN (Next Generation Alloy Body) shields your expensive investment in a metal clad of armor, and our high-end AL6082 Conductive Structural Alloy displaces heat at an astounding 71,900% better than plastic. You don’t think of your thermal as some cheap plastic toy. Why should it be built like one?

Welcome to 153rd NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits – Texas-sized

Dallas beginning May 16.

Featuring 14 acres of guns and gear, the firearm industry’s top brands, presentations from leading 2A supporters, banquets, auctions, 50-plus FREE seminars, demos, and tons of family-friendly activities, the 2024 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits is truly a Texas-sized celebration of freedom, firearms, and the Second Amendment!

This is truly a historic celebration to mark more than a century and half of protecting and defending our nation’s greatest freedoms. All of you, and the many millions of NRA members across the nation, are the reason the NRA can proudly call itself the nation’s oldest and most successful civil rights organization. It is because of your values, your tenacity, and your unyielding commitment that our Second Amendment remains strong.

Because, as we all know, our work is not over — nor will it ever be. Because we are freedom’s most potent army, our opposition is determined to cancel us.

Over the years we’ve fought the hard fights when no one else was able to. We’ve spoken the hard truths when no one else dared utter them. We’ve defended, secured and won back lost freedoms. We’ve spent 150 years leading the charge in Second Amendment advocacy, firearms training and safety.

And, we do it all together. So, let’s renew our commitment to meet the new challenges ahead of us. The fight for our freedom. The fight for our way of life. The fight for our constitutional rights.

Remember, when we all stand for freedom …we win.

—NRA

When you set out to exceed the limits of what is expected of hunting ammunition, you don’t do it by guessing what should happen. You test, evaluate and refine until you arrive at Hornady® Precision Hunter® ammunition, loaded with our ballistically advanced ELD-X® bullet with Heat Shield® tip. Engineered specifically to deliver match accuracy and lethality at all practical ranges, Hornady® Precision Hunter® ammunition is the best ALL-RANGE hunting ammunition

Suppressor standstills disappearing

By Craig Nyhus Lone Star outdoor newS

The reports have been flowing in from excited suppressor purchasers. The times for Form 4 individual applications have decreased by leaps and bounds, especially for new applications in 2024.

One South Texas hunter was elated his waiting time was just over a month, as the sheep hunter was waiting on a lightweight suppressor for his mountain trip. Another Dallas-area hunter waited just a few weeks.

While many who applied in 2023 and those who submitted trust applications are still waiting for at least 180 days, it appears improvement is on the horizon.

The change appears to be thanks to efforts by the American Suppressor Association working with the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

At the end of 2023, the ASA coordinated an Industry Roundtable with ATF to discuss problems and offer solutions to many of the underlying issues slowing down the eForms system. On March 15, the National Firearms Act Division hosted a webinar to discuss the processing improvements they recently implemented. These improvements have helped dramatically speed up Form 4 transfers. While there is still tremendous variability in transfer times, ATF said the new and improved processing times are the “new normal” and are expected to continue.

In order to process an NFA application, ATF must first receive a response from the FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System. The NFA Division currently submits NICS checks to the FBI in large batches. Rather than approving transfers sequentially based on date received, NFA examiners are now focusing on rapidly processing applications as soon as the NICS response has been received. According to ATF, the “NFA Division is processing eForm Individual applications in real-time” and will quickly do the same for Form 4s utilizing an NFA trust.

The NFA transfer process also has been optimized to more efficiently process electronic applications. With roughly 96 percent of all NFA applications submitted electronically, more can be processed in a shorter period of time.

Perhaps the most impactful change is ATF’s departure from the “First In, First Out” approach, according to ASA. Rather than waiting for applications to be approved sequentially, NFA now focuses on approving applications as soon as the applicant’s background check has received a NICS “proceed.” Around 70 percent of background checks receive an instant “proceed” from NICS. The remaining 30 percent are “delayed” or “denied.”

The NFA Division said it also is working to implement improvements to the processing of trust applications that will all but eliminate the gap between individual and trust applicants. This will be especially true for applicants using “standardized trusts” sold by reputable companies which have already been thoroughly vetted by ATF.

THE STEADIEST SHOOTING STICKS EVER

Very popular in Europe and steadily gaining popularity in Africa, the quad leg design of shooting sticks is relatively new in the states. GunStix shooting sticks provide two points of contact that support the forearm and stock of your rifle which gives an unbelievably steady rest to shoot.

The quad leg design far surpasses the support offered by any brand of tripod shooting sticks. They are fully adjustable and can be used standing, sitting as well as shooting up or downhill. Weighing just over 2 pounds and collapsing down to around 34 inches makes them very easy to take on your next hunt as they easily fit in most duffle bags and hard gun cases.

Ideal for taking long shots in big open country, they would be the perfect rest for antelope, elk and mule deer hunters.

David J. Sams

HIGH RESOLUTION THERMAL IS HERE TO STAY

Not too long ago, InfiRay Outdoor (iRayUSA) rocked the market by releasing the first 1280 resolution thermal weapon sight for civilians. The RICO HD (RS75) was the top pick for high-res thermal optics, though its hefty price tag of $18K (later dropped to $16K) made it exclusive. Then, another Texas company dropped a highresolution optic last fall — a 1024x768 with a 1.75x base magnification, showing the continued demand for higher resolution thermal sights.

At the NRA Annual Meeting in Dallas, InfiRay Outdoor is unveiling another highres thermal weapon sight, the BOLT TX60C, blending high resolution with a traditional day scope look. Sporting a 1024×1024 InfiRay Micro II thermal sensor, 3× magnification, and digital zoom up to 16×, it’s ideal for predator hunting and longrange shots.

Previously, thermal optics had to choose

between high resolution or high base magnification — it was physically difficult to do both. But InfiRay took on the challenge, using their first-ever 1024x1024 sensor and a sleek f1.0 60mm Germanium lens, finding a balance for many hunters.

With a sensitivity rating of ≤18mK and a round 2560×2560 AMOLED display, the TX60C delivers exceptional detail. Its 30mm body design allows easy mounting with the included cantilever mount or standard scope rings. Paired with the ILR1200-1 Laser Rangefinding module, it provides real-time ranges and calculates firing solutions. INFIRAY OUTDOOR ☎ (800) 769-7125 IRAYUSA.COM NRA BOOTH 10356

THE BEST SOCKS, GLOVES FROM THE AMERICAN BISON

The American plains bison survives in some tough conditions, from blazing heat to -60-degree cold.

How do they do it? It’s all about the undercoat in the animals’ fur.

“Mother Nature has given them the perfect clothing to keep them comfortable year-round in all kinds of conditions,” said The Buffalo Wool Company owner Ron Miskin. “It’s because of the “down” or fine soft undercoat they grow out in winter and shed out in spring.”

Each huge bison only has 6-8 ounces of the undercoat.

“That’s all it takes to keep the bison completely comfortable,” Miskin said. “The downy fiber has a natural crimp to it that helps it trap more dead air than any other fiber. Dead air is a fantastic insulator and provides a great buffer against the cold.”

Most people have seen photos of bison completely crusted over with ice and snow, and their body heat doesn’t escape through the amazing insulation.

But what about the Texas heat, especially for those with sweaty feet?

Bison undercoat is also an ideal material when it comes to keeping your feet cool, as the fine, itch-free fibers act

better than wool, keeping your feet dry.

Miskin and his wife, Theresa, developed socks, gloves and much more from the bison undercoat, along with the difficult task of locating enough to produce in larger quantities, a decadelong process.

“Our supply chain brings together bison ranchers, small independent mills and local manufacturers, Miskin said.

“We work with ranchers all over the U.S. to get their hair. You only get a few pair of socks off of one bison.”

It only takes a few wears to realize these are best socks and gloves made.

“Bison wool is soft enough to wrap a baby in, and tough enough to keep a mountain man warm in a blizzard,” Miskin said. “The fiber has a micron count of about 15, comparable to a good cashmere.”

Each pair is warm, lightweight and super-tough. Iditarod mushers who used to pack up to 25 pairs for the long journey, pack just five pair of Buffalo Wool socks.

“The socks wick stronger,” Miskin said. They keep you comfortable at real cold temps, and when it’s hot, they are better than cotton socks.”

The Miskin family has been raising

OWN THE ‘TURKISH STANDARD’

Husan Arms renowned and awardwinning rifles, shotguns and pistols, parts and accessories are now available in the U.S., with a sales, training and service branch opened in Belton, Texas, in 2023. In 2024, Husan will introduce a new pistol, the TR2, to the U.S. market, with precision out of the box at levels compared with high-end competition pistols, all for less than $500. The TR2 comes with a magazine conversion kit to change the capacity from 15 to 19 rounds.

Additionally, the TR2 is the first to use a nontoxic unique nickel-boron coating inside and outside of the barrel without affecting the precision or MOA. The TR2 is optic-ready with a plate included. The easy-to-exchange rubberized backstrap adjusts for different hand types.

Overall, Husan offers more than 100 configurations and models, including the “Coach Gun” (shown above) side-by-side and double trigger, the model HKS Series (Kinetic) shotguns and the MKA1919 Match and Match Pro AR-style shotgun, winner of the Shooting Illustrated Shotgun of the Year and an NRA Bullseye Award in 2016.

Husan firearms use only high-quality Turkish and Italian steel and aluminum, and all products are backed by a lifetime warranty.

The internationally recognized firearms have a storied history, beginning after World War I, when a man named Mustafa, a blacksmith’s son and gunsmith during the war, transformed the tiny village of Huglu to a center of gun manufacturing for sport.

After the war, Mustafa trained village residents, with many establishing workshops in their homes. The beautifully crafted rifles manufactured in Konya, the state that includes Huglu and Beysehir, now the capital of firearms manufacturers, including Husan Arms. Now, Erol Ugur, Chairman of Husan Arms and Mustafa’s grandson, carries forward the legacy passed on through generations.

Husan Arms has 3 ISO standards Certificates and its NATO Manufacturing Plant certificate, among others.

HUSAN ARMS USA ☎ (254) 935-3800 HUSANARMUSA.COM

bison for decades, along with many ranchers who raise the animals for meat, and the many styles of Buffalo Wool’s products all come with a 100-percent guarantee. The family, though, hopes to

achieve a greater purpose.

“We believe that by working together, we can preserve America’s national mammal,” Miskin said.

CHOOSE THE ORIGINAL DROP-IN TRIGGER

CMC Triggers is the original maker and manufacturer of the Drop-in Trigger Group for the AR-15/10 rifle since 2003. This innovative design combines the comfort of the classic curve with the indexing of CMC’s patented flat trigger into one dynamic hybrid trigger bow for the modern warfighter. The CMC CCT has an exceptionally smooth feel, ultra-clean break and an exceptional lock time and lightning-fast reset.

CMC Triggers sear engagement overlap is up to 6-8 times greater than our competitors. This provides a much safer trigger and enhances reliability.

CMC AR-15/AR-10 Combat Curve Trigger (CCT) Single Stage features:

• Single Stage Match Trigger

• Ultra-crisp trigger with no feel of creep prior to hammer release

• Glass-smooth break with no feel of grittiness

• Minimal lock time is designed into the assembly using controlled hammer weight and balance activated by a rocket wire hammer spring, assuring repeatable function with either commercial or military-grade ammunition

• Trigger pull is factory pre-set and not user adjustable

• Positive trigger reset allows a quick follow-up shot

• Hand assembled and hand tested

• Totally self-contained one-piece assembly

• Fits MIL-SPEC AR-15 and AR-10 style rifles

• Made from 8620 Alloy Steel and S7 Tool Steel with machined tolerances of +/–.001”

• Easy to install, instruction link: www.cmctriggers.com/installation-instructions

• All CMC products come with a Lifetime Warranty and are made in the U.S.A.

2024 NRA ANNUAL MEETINGS & EXHIBITS- SEMINAR/WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

FRIDAY

10:00am - 11:00am New To Concealed Carry? A Real Life Look At What Life Is Like When Carrying

Cole McCulloch How To Find The Dot On Pistol Mounted Optics

10:00am - 12:00pm NRA Clubs & Associations Workshop

Armed Citizen: How To Interact With Law Enforcement

11:00am - 12:30pm Gun Control Myths

School (In) Security

Lessons Learned From Women’s Self Defense Encounters

11:30am - 12:30pm Personal Protection Strategies In 2024

12:00pm - 1:00pm Draw Time: What’s Fast Or Fast Enough?

12:00pm - 2:00pm Immediate Responder: When Seconds Count

ROSE By Sig Sauer

12:00pm - 4:00pm Bullet Proof Mind For The Armed Citizen

12:30pm - 1:30pm Preventative Defense (PreFense): The 90% AdvantageRevolutionize The Way You Stay Safe

12:30pm - 2:00pm Lessons Learned From Analyzing 50,000 Gunfights: 2024 Update

12:30pm - 2:30pm NRA Grassroots 2024 Election Action Meeting

1:00pm - 2:00pm Armed Citizen: How To Interact With Law Enforcement

Reload Like A Champion

The Brutal Minds Putting Our Country At Risk

1:00pm - 5:00pm The Active Shooter Problems & How To Minimize Victims

1:30pm - 3:30pm NRA School & Community Shield

2:00pm - 3:30pm The Aging Defender And Conspiracy Theories

2:00pm - 4:00pm The Guns Of D-Day

2:30pm - 4:30pm Beyond The

3:00pm - 4:00pm Concealed Carry Considerations

3:00pm - 5:00pm How To Train To Be Your Own Family First Responder

Refuse To Be A Victim: A Crime Prevention Series

4:00pm - 5:00pm Draw Your Gun To Win

SATURDAY

David

&

10:00am - 11:00am Intro To Long Range Field Shooting D166 Cole McCulloch Choosing The Right Handgun D167 Ross Begnaud, Sig Sauer Instructor 11:00am - 12:00pm LEOSA: Procedures & Considerations For The Agency & Firearm Instructor C140 Glen Hoyer

11:00am - 1:00pm Refuse To Be A Victim: A Crime Prevention Series C142 Major Edward O’Carroll How To Train To Be Your Own Family First Responder

Klint Macro The Guns Of The Warsaw Pact

11:30am - 12:30pm The Brutal Minds Putting Our Country At Risk

Stanley K. Ridgley Reload Like A Champion

Gary Kieft - Dillon Precision

11:30am - 1:00pm 2024 Freedom First Financial Seminar - Universal Coin & Bullion D168 Dr. Mike Fuljenz & Forest Hamilton - UCB Top 5 Myths Concealed Carriers Believe Revealed D170/172 John Correia

12:00pm - 1:00pm Preventative Defense (PreFense): The 90% AdvantageRevolutionize The Way You Stay Safe C141 Steve Tarani Advanced Long-Range Shooting

12:00pm - 2:00pm ROSE By Sig Sauer

Cole McCulloch

Lena Miculek, Sig Sauer

1:00pm - 2:30pm 7 Simple Concealed Carry Tips D174 Jeff Gonzales

1:00pm - 5:00pm Bullet Proof Mind For The Armed Citizen C144/145 Lt. Col. Dave Grossman

1:30pm - 2:30pm Draw Your Gun To Win D170/172 Neil Weidner

1:30pm - 3:00pm How Gun Control Discriminates Against The Poor & Minorities

2:00pm - 3:00pm WIN With Friends Of NRA

Dr. John R. Lott Jr.

Friends Of NRA Texas Gun Laws C142 James & Tracy Willi

2:00pm - 3:30pm The Aging Defender And Conspiracy Theories

2:00pm - 4:30pm NRA Trainer’s Update

2:30pm - 4:30pm Sniping In The Great War

Dr. Joseph Logar

Major John L. Plaster Considerations For Armed Responders To Active Shooter Attacks

3:00pm - 4:00pm Choosing The Right Rifle

Mike Sullivan, Sig Sauer Instructor Personal Protection Strategies In 2024

3:00pm - 5:00pm Immediate Responder: When Seconds Count

3:30pm - 5:00pm School (In) Security

4:00pm - 5:00pm Armed Citizen: How To Interact With Law Enforcement

Glen Hoyer 4:00pm - 5:30pm Lessons Learned From Women’s Self Defense Encounters

SUNDAY 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM National Gun Collectors Award Ceremony

11:00am - 12:00pm Intro To Long-Range Field Shooting

11:00am - 12:30pm The Aging Defender And Conspiracy Theories

- 1:00pm Evolution: The AKM

Riot & Violent Protest Survival

11:30am - 3:30pm Bullet Proof Mind Of The Armed Citizen

12:00pm - 1:00pm Armed Citizen: How To Interact With Law Enforcement

12:00pm - 1:30pm Gun Control Myths

1:00pm

2:30pm - 3:30pm Personal Protection Strategies In 2024

2:30pm - 4:00pm Lessons Learned From Women’s Self Defense Encounters

3:00pm - 4:00pm LEOSA: Procedures & Considerations For The Agency & Firearm

HALL A

NRA FOUNDATION BANQUET & AUCTION

NRA LEADERSHIP FORUM NATIONAL PRAYER BREAKFAST

11750

11337

AGS Custom 5008

Aguila Ammunition USA 7923

AIM Outdoor Group 7924

AimCam LLC 7657

Aimpoint, Inc. 8039

Airguns of Arizona 6521

AKT1 Sport LLC 4824 Alexander Arms 8516

2024 Annual Meetings Exhibitor List

Alligator Solution 5623 Alpha Foxtrot 6007 Alpha Silencer 11651

Alpine Innovations 5718

Altamont Engraving 5823

Altus Brands 8914

Amateur Trapshooting Association 8226

Amend2 Magazines 7120

American Gunsmithing Institute 8319

American Rebel 4417

American Shooting Journal 11653

American Society of Arms Collectors 10762

American Tactical 10337

American Trigger Corp. 5207

AmericanSnipers.org 9637

AMERIGLO 6517

AmmoSquared Inc 6923

Ammo-Up 7516

Ammunition To Go 12050

Anderson MFG 8416

Angry Stag 8712

Annealing Made Perfect 10351

Apex Optics 6124

APOD Group Arms 7837

AR500-Targets 11534

Argent Wolfz LLC 5923

Argentina Big Hunting 5622

Argentina Wild Wings 5321

Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network, Inc. 8247

Armor Specialties 12365

Armory of Kings 7547

ArmourLite Watch Company 6012

At The Ready 11237

Athlon Optics 11151

Atlas Development Group LLC 5815

ATN 11764

Attorneys On Retainer 10651

Avidity Arms 7624

Avula Safaris 5322

Axil 10633,7549

BA Global Defense 9563

Ballistol USA 9639

Barkery L9

Barnes Bullets 8022

Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. 8240

Battle Arms

Development Inc. 8349

Bear and Son Cutlery 8213

Bellewood Designs 12354

Benelli USA 7502

Beretta USA Corp. 7002

Bering Optics 7648

Berry’s Manufacturing 10741

Bersa 7216

Best of the West Holdings 5912

Better Garden Tools 6916,7316

Big River Camps 5721

Big Tex Ordnance 11162

Bill Wiseman & Co. 7335

Bilson Arms, LLC 5607

Black On Ammo 8257

Black Rain Ordnance 7439

Black Steel 12241

Black Talon Tactical LLC 12340

Blitz Manufacturing 6123

Blue Line Solutions LLC 12052

Bond Arms, Inc 7822

Breek Arms 12051

Browning 7628

Browning Collectors Association 10560

Buck Knives 8347

Bucks Holsters 8312

Bullet Bloom 7714

Bullet Splat Jewelry 7524

Bull-It Box 5924

Bullpup Unlimited Inc. 6625

Bunker USA 12345

Burn Proof Gear 11131

Burris/Steiner Optics 6802

Busted B Leather 11953

Butler Bags 11950

C Products Defense, Inc. 11238

C&H Precision Weapons/Cloud

Defensive/Genesis

Arms/Agency Arms 4404

CAA USA 7220

Cabot Gun Company, LLC 7016

Cadex Defence 7952

Capitol Armory 11164

Capstone Precision Group 8518

Carbon Research / Sunshine Safety First Aid 9764

2024 Annual Meetings Exhibitor List

Carter and Sons LLC 9864

Case Knives 7944

CCW Safe 7256

Cedar Cover Ranch 5523

Centerfire Systems 11462

Century Arms 9851

Challenge Targets 7611

Champion Ranch 5525

Charity Safaris 5224

Charter Arms 11760

Charter Tactical 7713

Chaves Knives 5123

Check-Mate Industries 5308

Cheyenne Ridge Signature Lodge 5521

Chiappa Firearms, Ltd. 7444

Choate Machine & Tool Co., Inc. 7625

Christensen Arms 9337

Cimarron Firearms 6820

Clenzoil 8422

CMC Triggers 5704

Cobratec Knives 8908

Cold Water Outfitters 5424

Colt Collectors Association, Inc. 10664

Colt’s Manufacturing Company 8728

Concealed Carry Inc. 9763

ConferenceDirect L16

CoolFire Trainer 11731

Courage Tactical dba

CopsPlus 4123

Crime Prevention Research Center L3

Criterion Barrels 9960

CRKT 6825

Cross Armory 10263

Cross Bar Company, LLC 5905

Crossbreed Holsters LLC 8048

Current Composites, Inc 8608

CZ-USA 8622

Dakota Prairie Lodge & Resort 5323

DAMASCUS USA 6126

Daniel Defense, LLC 4021, 8457

Darmok Designs 11461

Darson Forge 7956

Dead Air SIlencers 10751

Dead Foot Arms, LLC 11234

Defense Hearing / SportEAR 5715,8318

Del-Ton, Inc. 8056

DeSantis Gunhide 7236

DFNDR Armor 5608

Diamondback Firearms 10156

Dillon Precision Products, Inc 8044

Dirty Duck Coffee Company 4205

Discover Atlanta L18

Dixie Gun Works 8525

DLG Tactical Inc 4712

DoubleTap Ammunition 8653

Dr Jim’s Gun Care 8211

DryFireMag LLC 8423

DS Arms, Inc 8522

DZO Technology Hong Kong Co. Ltd. 12141

Eagle Grips 7734

EAR, Inc. 6621

Eddie Eagle Kids Zone L14

El Paso Saddlery 6925

Eley Ammunition 6025

Elftmann Tactical 6006

Elite Iron 11134

Emerson Knives 8356

EMF Company/Pietta 8412

EMPIRE PBF 11364

EMS Firearms 9958

Endres Exotic Leatherworks 5822

Texas Divide Ranch 5725

Texas Gun Collectors

Association 10662

Texas Gun Experience 10653

Texas Handgun Association 10433

Texas State Rifle Association L10

Texas Trophy Hunters Association 8313

The Fallen Outdoors L5

The Headrest Safe Company 11631

The Kinetic Group 8644

The Range Network 5717

The Salty Seabag 7826

Timney Triggers 8513

TiON, Inc. 8414

Tippmann Arms 8713

Tippmann Ordnance 7023

TNW Firearms, Inc. 8707

Tony’s Customs LLC 7857

Top Brass 10063

TOPS Knives 9537

TRACT Optics 11742

2024 Annual Meetings Exhibitor List

Traditions Performance Firearms 7849

Trailblazer Firearms 11552

Trans National Firearms LLC 4321

Triangle Fragrance 8507

Trident 1 4713

TriggerTech 10951

Trijicon, Inc. 7816

TRIPLE K MFG CO. 6917

TriStar Arms 7118

Triumph Systems 11831

Trophy Ear 6822

TROY 11954

Truspec by Atlanco 6318

Turac 11753

U.S. Chrome7 450

U.S. Optics/ZRODelta 6322

UkoalaBag, Inc. 5712

Ulticlip 8216

Ultradyne USA 5917

UM Tactical 9939

Umarex USA 9945

Uncommon USA 4421

Underwood Ammo 7244

United States Concealed

Carry Assocation 12145

UNITY Tactical 11739

Universal Coin and Bullion 6104,6111

Urban Utility Bags 11160

USA Clay Target League 7856

USA Shooting 7653

USNRT 5506

UTAS 11951

Valka Airguns, LLC 11965

Vantage Point Armory 4723

Velocity Triggers 11137

Vertical Gun Racks LLC 8614

Veteran Legal Assistance Program 12039

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States 11161

Victor Company USA Inc 11551

Victrix - USA 4322

Virginia Gun Collectors Association 10562

Schedule of events

(Registration & Ticket Required)* Thursday, May 16

7:00am Volunteer Office Opens

7:30am

2:00pm

2:00pm

2:00pm

2:00pm

2:00pm

Friday, May 17

7:00am Volunteer Office Opens

7:30am

8:00am

8:00am

8:00am Special Event Ticket Sales & Will Call

8:00am

9:00am Exhibit Hall Opens (closes at 6 pm)

10:00am Seminars begin (See Seminar Schedule)

6:00pm

7:00am

7:30am

8:00am On-Site Registration Opens

8:00am

8:00am Special Event Ticket Sales & Will Call

9:00am Exhibit Hall Opens (closes

Sunday, May 19

7:00am

8:30am

10:00am

11:00am

Viridian Weapon Technologies 9737

VKTR Industries 10334

Voodoo Tactical 11545

VT Solution Groups LLC 8425

Vudoo Gun Works 4105

Vulcan Arms 11163

VZ Grips 8008

Walther Arms, Inc. 10737

WarBird Protection Group 5906

Warne Scope Mounts 11054

Warwick Tactical 10649

Watchtower Firearms 5106

We Knife Co. 10553

Weatherby 9545

Wicked Truth Arms LLC 12040

Wilderness Escape Outfitters 5723

Wilderness Mint, LLC 8326

Wilderness Tactical

Products, LLC 8711

Wilkinson Tactical 11649

Willi Law Firm, P.C. 6016

Wilson Combat/IDPA/

Lehigh/CM Products 9560

Winchester Ammunition 8128

Winchester Arms Collectors Association 10864

WOLF Performance Ammunition & Arms 10331

Wolfe Publishing Co. 8222

Woods & Water Taxidermy 5821

WOOX 10550

Worldwide Trophy Adventures 10360

Wraithworks 11654

XS Sight Systems 7408

Yankee Hill Machine Co. 11549

YiShine 6324

Zaffiri Precision 10332

Z-Clear Anti Fog Inc 10037, 6321, 8611

Zerust Consumer Products 7414

PRESTIGE NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE.

THE ALL-NEW EVOKE PREMIUM PRECISION, ATTAINABLE PRICE TAG

At the 2024 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, one of the biggest attention-grabbers was the new Evoke, Christensen Arms’ first sub-$1,000 lineup of centerfire rifles, which showcased best-inclass features alongside a sub-MOA guarantee. At the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Dallas May 17-19, you can put your hands on your next hunting rifle at Christensen Arms’ booth 9337.

The Evoke is an all-new suite of rifles designed to provide both beginner and seasoned hunters with a versatile, feature-rich entry point into the lineup of Christensen Arms’ legendary rifles. The Evoke line boasts a laundry list of bells and whistles to make it suited for the blind, the brush and everywhere in between.

“With the Evoke lineup, we are proud to offer hunters world-class, attainable firearms that embody our dedication to craftsmanship and innovation regardless of what — and where — they hunt,” said Willie Vernon, Christensen Arms’ Executive Vice President of Marketing. “When companies enter into a more accessible price range, the question is often ‘What did you sacrifice?’ We’re proud to say absolutely nothing. The Evoke is the result of our passion for crafting American-made rifles that prioritize performance and precision, and we want everyone to be able to own a premium rifle.”

To further showcase Christensen Arms’ commitment to precision, every Evoke is shot for accuracy prior to leaving the factory. As Christensen Arms says, it isn’t simply accuracy guaranteed — it’s accuracy proven.

Available in 11 of the most popular hunting calibers, the Evoke rifles feature a six-lug bolt with a 60-degree bolt throw and an adjustable TriggerTech trigger, ensuring accuracy and consistency with every shot. Additional features include a detachable box magazine, integrated Picatinny and ARCA rails for aftermarket accessory attachment, a pre-installed optic rail on the Hunter and Precision Models, premium RFR-style muzzle brake on a #4 contour stainless steel barrel threaded in 5/8x24, swivel sling stud for enhanced versatility while in the field, and an adjustable FFT carbon fiber cheek piece on select models.

The Evoke rifles have a starting weight of 7.7 pounds, and will be available in OD Green, Mossy Oak Bottomland, Christensen Arms Hunter Camouflage and Christensen Arms Hex Camouflage. Available calibers will be .243 Win, 6.5 Creedmore, 6.5 PRC, .270 Win, 7mm Rem Mag, 7mm PRC, .308 Win, 30.06 Springfield, .300 Win Mag, 300 PRC and 350 Legend. The starting MSRP for the Evoke rifles is $898.99.

CHRISTENSEN ARMS

☎ (888) 517-8855

CHRISTENSENARMS.COM

NRA BOOTH 9337

NEW FOR 2024

NEW PRODUCT, FASTER APPROVALS HIGHLIGHT BUSY MONTH FOR SILENCER CENTRAL

May is a busy month for Silencer Central, with lots going on, a new product launch, new individual filing for our customers, the latest news on faster approval times, and live Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms submissions at NRAAM 2024 booth 10731.

BANISH Speed K Ti

The latest news is the launch of the BANISH Speed K Ti silencer. This new silencer is aimed at the enthusiast looking for a compact, maneuverable suppressor that is perfect for target shooting, competition, hunting (especially in tight spaces like hog hunting from a helicopter), and home defense. The Speed K Ti is a .223/5.56 silencer that weighs just 8.2 ounces. It is 4 inches long with a 2-inch diameter and uses an industry-standard hub mount. It gives you a 20.6 decibel reduction level, helping to protect your hearing while being compact.

Shooters looking for a compact suppressor for competition shooting, like 3-gun matches, will love the size and performance of the BANISH Speed K Ti. It will also be popular with predator and varmint hunters who want a compact can for tight spaces, and hog hunters chasing wild pigs from the land and air. Anyone using an AR for home defense will also appreciate the compact, easyto-maneuver suppressor that can help protect hearing during the worst-case scenario.

Approvals

Approval times on eForm 4s from the ATF continue to trend in the right direction, and Silencer Central is happy with the progress it has seen. Silencer Central CEO Brandon Maddox recently met with leadership from the ATF and National Firearms Association. This included touring the facilities where approvals take place and seeing the process firsthand.

“We have been working hand-in-hand with the ATF and NFA staff to make faster approvals happen,” Maddox said. “I am pleased with the progress being made to get suppressors into the hands of Americans faster than ever.”

In response to customer demand, Silencer Central is offering its customers an option to now individually file the eForm 4 application when buying your suppressor to take advantage of current faster approval times from the ATF. You now have the option to choose between submitting as an individual or using Silencer Centrals free trust setup service when checking out.

“Our customers asked for individual filing, and we are answering that call,” Maddox said. “We also recently completely overhauled our warehouse to help speed things along, as we have the inventory available to fulfill suppressor orders right now. After all, customers can’t take advantage of faster approval times if there isn’t a silencer available to sell to them.”

See the friendly staff from Silencer Central in booth 10731, where you can purchase a silencer, have your photo and fingerprints taken, generate your free NFA Gun Trust if you choose, set up a no fees, no-interest payment plan, digitally sign your ATF application, and submit to the ATF — all at the booth.

THE 5TH GENERATION REVOLUTION OF THERMAL, NV

ATN Corp. has established itself as a frontrunner in the development and manufacturing of precision Night Vision optics and Thermal Imaging solutions. Over the years, ATN’s introduction of new technologies has reshaped how hunters engage with different environments, emphasizing reliability and functionality in each device.

ATN THOR 5 XD

1280x1024 5th Generation Thermal Scope

Built for precision and performance, the THOR 5 XD is a prime example of ATN’s dedication to advancing thermal imaging technology. Featuring an industry leading 1280x1024 HD sensor along with a <30 NETD rating, this 5th Generation scope captures sharp and detailed images, ensuring that hunters can easily spot their target. The enhanced sensor resolution provides a wider field of view, making it easier to track moving targets in varied terrains.

At the core of the THOR 5 XD is a powerful Quad Core processor, designed to handle complex image processing with ease, providing a smooth and clear view. This is complemented by a precision laser rangefinder, which revolutionizes targeting by delivering accurate distance measurements at the push of a button. This feature not only enhances the hunter’s effectiveness but also reduces the time spent estimating range, allowing for quick and decisive action.

The THOR 5 XD is designed not only for its technological edge but also to enhance the hunting experience. With its Video Record feature, hunters can record their outings in high definition, capturing every successful hunt. The videos can be shared with friends or used for reviewing hunting strategies.

Furthermore, the scope is user-friendly, thanks to the ATN Reticle Editor, which allows hunters to design custom reticles that fit their specific needs. Whether targeting hogs, coyotes or squirrels, the THOR 5 XD is flexible enough for various hunting scenarios.

In essence, the THOR 5 XD is more than a thermal scope; it’s a testament to how advanced technology can elevate the traditional hunting experience, offering both precision and reliability during night hunts. Enhanced with a high-resolution display, the scope presents thermal images in vivid detail, making it easier to identify and track targets in diverse conditions. The user interface is intuitively designed, facilitating quick adjustments during hunting and allowing hunters to react swiftly to moving

targets. The durable design of the THOR 5 XD ensures reliability in all weather conditions, reinforcing ATN’s commitment to quality and durability. With features such as multiple imaging modes and a robust weather-resistant construction, the THOR 5 XD stands as a top choice for hunters who demand the best in thermal imaging.

ATN X-SIGHT

5

Ultra HD 4K+ Smart Day & Night Vision Rifle Scope

The ATN X-Sight 5 introduces a new era of hunting both day and night with its advanced Ultra HD 4K+ in various light conditions. Powered by ATN’s innovative Quad Core processor, the X-Sight 5 delivers exceptional image quality, ensuring that every observation is as real as nature intended.

The integration of an advanced ballistic calculator adds a layer of precision to hunting, automatically adjusting the scope’s display and providing instant feedback for better shot accuracy. The Dual Stream Video feature allows for HD streaming to mobile devices while simultaneously recording every critical moment onto an SD card in stunning 4K resolution. This feature ensures that hunters do not miss a single detail of their hunt, capturing both the intensity and the beauty of their outdoor adventures. The scope also offers a slow-motion recording feature, capturing key moments in detailed slow motion, which is great for analyzing shots or just enjoying the beauty of the moment.

It works perfectly during the day and at night, making it a versatile choice for dedicated hunters. The scope is easy to handle, supports various accessories for customization, and connects to mobile devices for interactive features, ensuring every detail is captured and every shot counts. The ergonomic design of the X-Sight 5 enhances user comfort during long hunting sessions, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry in the field.

The X-Sight 5 is where technology meets the great outdoors, transforming every hunting trip into an enhanced experience. It’s not just a scope; it brings clarity, precision, and a deeper appreciation of nature to your adventures. By offering both day and night functionality, the X-Sight 5 ensures that hunters are prepared for any situation, maximizing their chances for a successful hunt. The X-Sight 5 stands out as an essential tool for hunters who value technology that can multiply their effectiveness in the field.

Safari Club International (SCI) is the leader in defending the freedom to hunt and promoting sustainable-use wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI is the only hunting rights organization with a Washington D.C.-based national and international advocacy team and an all species focus. SCI mobilizes nearly 150 chapters and a liate networks representing millions of hunters around the world. SCI’s sta , partner organizations, and chapter networks worldwide are involved in advocacy on local and global hunting issues, particularly in opposing international hunting import bans, opposing firearms restrictions, supporting rural areas and community leadership, and more. Your membership protects the heritage of hunting for future generations to come.

The Grizzly, from Bond Arms

The Grizzly Bear embodies the North American Wilderness’s power, strength and soul. It may not be the largest animal to roam the Americas, but it ranks among the fiercest and strongest encounters in the wild. Like the Bond Arms’ Grizzly, size does not always determine overall power.

The Grizzly set, consisting of the Grizzly derringer and a leather holster, represents one of Bond Arms’ most iconic designs. It features a 3-inch barrel chambered in 45 Colt/410 and boasts an extended rosewood grip that allows for a full hand grip. The Grizzly, like all Bond derringers, has a two-shot capacity, bladed front sights and fixed rear sights. Its short barrel makes it easy to carry and is ideal for short-range defense.

The holster that comes standard with the Grizzly, also available separately, is crafted from leather and accommodates any of the Bond 3-inch pistols. It’s the perfect size for an inside-the-waist or pocket holster, featuring a bear silhouette stamp on the side and securing the pistol with a hammer loop. It comes in both right and left-hand draw options with brown or black finishes.

In terms of design, Bond produces a wide range of derringers and pistols known for their exceptional quality and features. The stainless barrel and frame are durable and compatible with all standard Bond Arms barrels. Additional safety features include a crossbar safety for enhanced handling control and a patented rebounding hammer that ensures efficient and consistent firing of various manufacturer ammunition. The spring-loaded, cammed locking lever facilitates efficient and fast loading.

The Grizzly can meet all needs, whether for wilderness protection or urban safety. It can fire both 45 Colt and .410, allowing one to load anemic 45 Colt rounds for target practice or carry full-power 45 Colt loads and .410 for defensive purposes. The current MSRP for the Grizzly is $377.

Check out The Grizzly and other firearms at Bond Arm’s booth 7822 at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits.

A matching Big Boy Revolver and Big Boy Rifle pair by Henry Repeating Arms was selected as the 2024 Friends of NRA Gun of the Year. The set’s inclusion as the flagship of this year’s fundraising package marks the first time Henry Repeating Arms has offered a two-gun rifle and revolver set to the public, and it’s only available at in-person Friends of NRA events.

Friends of NRA is a 100-percent volunteer-driven fundraising organization benefiting The NRA Foundation, whose funding supports programs and activities that promote safe and responsible firearms ownership.

First introduced at the 2023 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Indianapolis, Indiana, the Henry Big Boy Revolver is the perfect companion to the Henry Big Boy Rifle, chambered in the same caliber and built with the same premium materials. For example, the same polished hardened brass used for the Big Boy Rifle’s receiver is also found in the trigger guard and grip frame of the revolver, and the same polished blued steel of the rifle’s barrel makes up the frame, cylinder and barrel of the revolver.

Setting these firearms apart from Henry’s standard catalog offerings are the engraved embellishments, like the Friends of NRA engraving on the genuine American walnut buttstock of the rifle, the gold-plated band around the revolver’s cylinder, and the exclusive, black-stained gunfighter-style grips also engraved with the Friends of NRA logo. Not available separately, the pair have matching, mirrored serial numbers. Only 750 sets are available nationwide.

“As a longtime supporter of the Friends of NRA and their grassroots efforts to preserve America’s hunting and shooting sports heritage, I am excited that their event attendees will be the first and only group that has a chance to bring home an official matched rifle and revolver set this year,” said Anthony Imperato, CEO and Founder of Henry Repeating Arms. “I urge everyone to look up the events in their area because you have to see this set in person.”

For more information about Henry Repeating Arms, visit henryusa.com. To find a Friends of NRA event near you, visit friendsofnra.org.

Even after you upgrade to a new HK VP9, with its best-in-class trigger pull and ergonomic, customizable grip, you’re not quite done yet. You still need a couple of important accessories. And we’re not talking about holsters, lights and optics either. Training and Practice – They are two different things and we all need more of both. Look into it … and go do the work!

www.hk-usa.com • 706-701-5554

SIX ON BOAT TAKING ON WATER

A 20-foot craft was reported to be taking on water with six people aboard 7 miles offshore of Freeport. A Coast Guard response boat and crew responded. At the scene, they embarked the boaters and safely transferred them to Bridge Bait marina.

MAN SWEPT AWAY BY RIPTIDE

A 19-year-old man was swimming with friends near Port Mansfield on the East Land Cut on Padre Island when a riptide pulled him away. He was last seen wearing black shorts, black sunglasses and a black hat. Searchers included the Raymondville Police Department and Coast Guard boat and helicopter crews. After extensive searching, the man remains unaccounted for. The friends were all reported as safe.

MAJOR PATROL DURING

BIG BASS SPLASH

At the Big Bass Splash on Sam Rayburn Reservoir April 19-21, game wardens seized more than $100,000 worth of stolen boats, trailers, and fishing equipment.

A two-day “saturation patrol” was led by TPWD’s Marine Theft Investigation Unit and assisted by game wardens from San Augus-

GAME WARDEN BLOTTER

HUMAN SMUGGLER DEFLATES RAFT AND SWIMS AWAY, LEAVING EIGHT CHILDREN

The Coast Guard rescued eight children ranging from 6 to 13 years old on the Rio Grande near McAllen. A response boat and crew was patrolling the river when they encountered a group of people attempting to cross the river nearby. The crew encountered a raft with one adult potential smuggler and eight children aboard. When the Coast Guard crew approached, the presumed smuggler jumped overboard, deflated the raft and swam back to the Mexican side of the river. As the vessel began to deflate and take on water, the crew rescued the eight children in the water from the sinking raft. They then brought the survivors safely ashore and transferred them to U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel for further processing. No injuries were reported.

tine, Sabine, Angelina, Jasper, Tyler and Nacogdoches counties, during which wardens checked approximately 300 boats, 243 boat engines and 100 boat trailers. Wardens questioned attendees about their boats and looked at serial numbers on boat engines. No arrests have been made to date, although wardens seized more than $100,000 of equipment, consisting in value of $27,700 in boats and $74,994 in motors. Over the last two years, the Marine Theft Investigation Units has seized more than $2 million worth of stolen boats, motors and other items.

BUSY DAY OF FLOOD RESCUES

Texas Game Warden Special Operations Teams including the Helicopter Rescue Team and Search and Rescue Team coordinated a hoist rescue of a tractor trailer driver swept off the road by powerful flood waters. The HRT team also transported a pregnant woman from rising waters to emergency personnel. She delivered her baby safely the next day. Lastly, they assisted Texas A&M Task Force 1 by providing thermal camera and search light operations to locate individuals clinging to trees for safety in rushing water.

TRUCKER HOISTED FROM ROOF

Multiple calls reporting stranded vehicles in flood waters near Lake Livingston were received, and the Huntsville Police Department requested Coast Guard assistance for a man stranded on the roof of his truck. A helicopter crew arrived on scene, hoisted the man and safely transported him to awaiting EMS. He was reported to be in stable condition.

ILLEGAL FISHERMEN WITH 350 POUNDS OF SNAPPER

The Coast Guard interdicted a lancha and seized 350 pounds of illegally caught fish in federal wa-

ters off southern Texas. Boat and air crews located and stopped four Mexican fishermen engaged in illegal fishing north of the Maritime Boundary Line. After interdicting the lanchas, personnel seized 350 pounds of red snapper, along with fishing gear and high flyers on board the vessels. The four men were detained, brought ashore and transferred to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The seized fish were split and donated to the Harte Research Institute for research and Sea Turtle Inc. to help feed and rehabilitate turtles.

RISING FLOOD WATERS BRING RESCUES In late April, Polk and Tyler County game wardens rescued area residents from their homes and vehicles among rising flood waters. Texas Game Warden Search and Rescue and Drone teams worked in conjunction with local sheriff offices and the Texas Division of Emergency Management.

Seeking salty water

bottom where the salinity is higher.”

Penick has been finding trout over shell and rocks off the Houston Ship Channel and along deeper well pads in Galveston Bay, in 6-12 feet of water. Soft plastics on heavy jig heads, as well as live shrimp, have worked best. Most of the speckled trout his anglers have been catching have been from 18-20 inches, with several topping 20 inches.

Penick had been catching plenty of trout up the Houston Ship Channel in satellite bays along the San Jacinto River watershed, but the runoff pushed those fish down the channel. He’s had to stay ahead of the runoff in order to keep catching fish.

“The redfish bite has been a little tough, as they seem to be roaming in open water and moving from day to day,” he said. “The wind has been blowing too hard on most days to safely navigate open bay waters.”

Keeper-sized black drum have been holding tight to rocks and shell along protected shorelines in up per Galveston Bay. Chunks of shrimp fished under a slip cork have been drawing the most strikes from drum.

In East Galveston Bay, Capt. Mitchell Stotts has been focusing his efforts in the marshes and cuts along the south shoreline and the Intracoastal Wa terway in anywhere from 1-9 feet of water, where he has been finding speckled trout, redfish and catfish all in the same areas.

“We have a tremendous shad spawn taking place in our marshes and the fish have been feeding pretty aggressively,” Stotts said. “Live shrimp under a popping cork has been working well, as well as soft plastics rigged on a 1/4-ounce jig head.”

Stotts said that tides have been high, and the key has been finding stretches of clean water. His anglers have been catching trout from 17-20 inches and 23-26-inch redfish.

Capt. Chris Phillips has been fishing the outside of the Sabine jetties, because that’s where the saltiest and cleanest water is located.

“The water in Sabine Lake and along the channel inside Sabine Pass is just completely trashed right now,” Phillips said. “There may be some fish in some areas inside the lake or pass, but I just don’t see how you could catch them with how poor the water clarity is.”

Phillips hasn’t been able to find many trout with the low salinities and poor water clarity, but he has been able to keep his anglers hooked up with solid sheepshead and redfish.

“We’ve been catching most of our fish near wash-outs along the jetties, where water is moving through the rocks,” he explained. “The fish have been hitting live shrimp bounced down the edge of the rocks, and most of them have been out off of the edges of the rocks near the bottom.”

Phillips has been using one or two split shot weights to get a free-lined live shrimp to sink down to where the sheepshead and redfish have been concentrated.

Fish with a brush

Continued from page 8

entry, its habitat or efforts to conserve it.

The top 12 works of art will be featured at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and in the 2025 Texas Fish Art Calendar. The winners are as follows:

Grades K-3

1. Jessica Ding, of Austin

2. Yueran Lang, of Austin

3. Jane Han, of Carrollton Grades 4-6

1. Luke Zhang, of Katy

2. Kayla Tran, of Wylie

3. Yolanda Xiong, of Flower Mound Grades 7-9

1. Caroline Sullivan, of Spring

2. Elizabeth Naiser, of Boerne

3. Kai-Lin Hsu, of Spring Grades 10-12

1. Mia Macias, of Pasadena

2. Samara Estrada, of Houston

3. Dipper Deen, of Fort Worth

First place winners in each of the four age groups advance to the national level and compete against winners from other states.

Scholarships for the first, second and third place Texas winners are awarded as follows: grades 10–12 division scholarships are $1,000 for first place, $750 for second place and $500 for third place; awards in the 4–6 and 7–9 grade levels are $200 for first, $150 for second, $100 for third; in the K-3 division awards are $100 for first, $75 for second, $50 for third.

Brandon Willis caught this speckled trout over deep structure in upper Galveston Bay. Photo by Capt. Billy Penick.

Caroline Sullivan (top) was the winner of the Fish Art contest for Grades 7-9, and Jessica Ding won in the K-3 Division. Photos from TPWD.

SHARE AN ADVENTURE

Sam Parker caught this 31-inch, 9.5-pound speckled trout. On April 16, Rebecca Jones, the Chief People Officer at Orvis, caught this largemouth on the Brazos River, near Waco, using her new Orvis Helios 7wt. fly rod and a hybrid worm-like pattern tied by guide RC Clarke of Fatties on the Fly.

Matt Malone, of Anna, nicknamed the “lip ripper,” caught this 5-pounds, 8-ounce bass to win the first KUIU Classic Bass tournament.

Steve Krueger took this 17-point red stag on the grounds of Chateau de LaPlanque, northeast of Toulouse, France on Feb. 14, using a .300 Win Mag.

Tripp Payne, 15, and his dad, Heath, took the first two American alligators taken at the Laguna Atascosa on its first public gator hunt. Tripp’s gator was 12 feet, 2 inches and Heath’s was 11 feet, 5 inches.

TEXAS SUN, MOON AND TIDES

Nueces

LONE STAR OUTDOOR PUZZLER

RCBS acquired

PR agency for X-Vision

ACROSS

1) The young goose

3) Formerly Granite Shoals

7) Fly rod brand

8) The muley hunter’s org.

9) One of the divers

11) A Great Lake

12) Caldwell County’s seat

13) Plastic worm brand

18) Kendall County’s seat

20) Fishing hook maker

21) Border river

24) Texas lake with redfish

28) Frog lure

30) Fin on the back

31) Rifle brand

34) Anahuac’s county

36) Night vision brand

40) Reel type

41) Offshore species

43) Shotshell brand

44) North Texas lake

45) An African antelope

46) A deer favorite

47) They make up reefs

48) Group of quail

Puzzle by Craig Nyhus, Lone Star Outdoor News Solution on Page 18

DOWN

The male goose

Turkey decoy brand

Shotgun brand

Top-water lure

Dallam County’s seat 8) Musky-fishing state 9) Bass boat brand 10) Longview’s county 14) Safari destination 15) South Texas lake, ___ Canyon

16) Sinker type

17) Group of crows

19) Bow type

22) Kenya’s capital

23) The blue tractor, New ____ 25) Gainesville’s county

26) Brand of waders

27) A tom’s mating ritual

29) Old name for Lady Bird Lake

32) Thermal optics brand

33) Hunting boot brand

35) Bullet brand

37) Feared by the turkey hunter

38) Falls County’s seat

39) Coastal bay

42) Fishing line brand

Hodgdon Powder Co. Inc. has acquired reloading brand RCBS, from Revelyst, a segment of Vista Outdoor Inc.

Smith named HIVIZ VP

HIVIZ Shooting Systems hired Joseph Smith as vice president of sales and marketing.

Ammo production expanding AMMO, Inc. acquired a tooling manufacturer that provides resources toward the production of ammunition in its Manitowoc, Wisconsin factory.

New sales leader

ZeroTech named James Head as its new head of international sales.

Maynard named national sales manager

MTM Case-Gard hired Klay Maynard as its new national sales manager.

X-Vision Optics, a provider of thermal and night vision optics solutions, announced its partnership with Chevalier Advertising as its agency of record.

Ranger Boats cuts workforce

Ranger Boats has reduced its workforce by 176 across three of its plants. The company, owned by Bass Pro Shops, said the cuts were made in response to soft demand and the poor economy.

New CEO at Anderson

Anderson Manufacturing appointed Jeff Stawiarski as the new chief executive officer of the family-owned firearm manufacturer.

New life for Thompson/Center Arms

Gregg Ritz announced the acquisition of Thompson/Center Arms to reinvigorate the brand in the firearms market.

Wild turkey green enchiladas

1 jalapeno, seeded

1 white onion, quartered

1/2 cup cilantro

5 tomatillos

5 cloves garlic

1 1/2 tsps. cumin

1 tsp. sea salt

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1 tbsp. olive or avocado oil

1 cup chicken broth

3 tbsps. lime juice

2 cups cooked wild turkey

2 cups melting cheese

10 corn tortillas

On a large baking sheet lined with butcher paper, add peppers, onion and garlic. Place rack under broiler in oven or high on your grill and char the pepper mixture, flipping halfway. While veggies are cooking, de-skin and add tomatil-

los to boiling water, boil until soft. Remove and set aside. Remove veggies from oven and cover with plastic wrap allowing them to steam for 5-10 minutes. Take the peppers and rub your fingers across the skin and remove as much as you can. Slice the peppers lengthwise and de-vein and de-seed. Add all ingredients, minus the oil, to a blender and blend until smooth. In a large skillet over high heat, add oil. Pour sauce into the skillet and cook 1-3 minutes. Remove from heat and keep in the fridge. To make enchiladas, pour 1/4 cup sauce on the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Fill one tortilla with cooked turkey meat and roll onto one side of the dish. Continue until all tortillas are filled. Pour remaining sauce over top of wrapped tortillas. Cover with melted cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

—NWTF

Blackened white bass

2 lbs. white bass fillets

1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp. vegetable oil

1 tbsp. lemon pepper

1 tbsp. paprika

2 tsps. garlic salt

2 tsps. dried basil

2 tsps. dried oregano

2 tsps. red pepper

2 tsps. freshly ground black pepper

Rinse fillets and pat dry. Place in a bowl and lightly toss with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Set aside. Combine lemon pepper, paprika, garlic salt, basil, oregano, red pepper, and black pepper in a bowl and whisk to blend well. Transfer to a larger, shallow bowl. Add 1/4 cup oil to a cast-iron skillet and place over high heat. Dredge the fish in the spice mixture, lightly coating both sides of the fillet. Sear a batch of several fillets at a time in a hot skillet. Cook for about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes per side. Fillets should be crusty. Continue cooking batches of fillets until done.

NATIONAL

CALIFORNIA

Top Roosevelt’s elk

The records department of the Boone and Crockett Club recently convened a Special Judges Panel to verify the entry score of a Roosevelt’s elk received earlier this year. Two separate teams of judges remeasured the entry and adjusted the score from 439-7/8 points to 455-2/8 points.

Timothy Carpenter killed the bull on Sept. 21, 2023, in Humboldt County, California. Carpenter’s elk smashes the previous world’s record of 419-6/8 points taken by Rick Bailey in British Columbia in 2015.

MONTANA

Elk poacher sought

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking information on a cow elk that was killed on April 17 in Ravalli County near the town of Victor.

The elk was shot and left on private property off Pleasant View Drive, near the intersection of Bumpy Lane in Victor. The elk was shot with a high-power rifle out of season, and the meat was left to waste.

—MFWP

TENNESSEE Weatherby Foundation award moving

Weatherby Foundation International and Safari Club International announced their agreement to host the Weatherby Foundation International Hunting and Conservation Award Dinner and presentation of the Weatherby Big Game Hunting and Conservation Award in Nashville, Tennessee, for the next nine years. The dinner and award presentation for 2025 will be held on Jan. 8, 2025, on the opening day of SCI’s Annual Hunters’ Convention at the Nashville Convention Center.

—Weatherby Foundation

MINNESOTA

DNR blows up deer blinds

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources crews will clean up debris left after forestry staff workers blew up wooden deer stands in the Bowstring State Forest.

The deer stands, permanent structures left illegally on public forest land, were destroyed with dynamite, but both neighbors near the site and DNR officials later said the action was uncalled for and inappropriate.

DNR officials said the action did not follow agency guidelines or reflect good judgment, and the debris would be removed by staff.

The elevated shelters with roofs, walls and windows were about 4x8 feet, around 10 feet tall and placed on wheeled trailers. The stands had been there for at least a decade, according to neighbors.

DNR officials said forestry staff left notices on the deer stands in October, before deer season, indicating they needed to be removed.

—Staff report

IDAHO

Record cutthroat

On the Clark Fork River, Daniel Whitesitt was fly-fishing with a friend in April, using a large nymph with an indicator, when he caught a cutthroat trout that measured 25 inches in length.

Out of cellphone range to check the Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s record book, they took photos and released the fish. It turned out the record was 24 inches.

Whitesitt said he was concerned the fish was a rainbow-cutthroat hybrid (a cutbow), but fisheries biologist confirmed from photos it was a cutthroat and confirmed it as a catchand-release state record.

—Staff report

Hunting mentorship course

The First Hunt Foundation announced, in collaboration with the NRA Hunter’s Leadership Forum, a new online course titled The ABCs of Outdoor Mentorship.

The free course was developed to serve as a bridge between the ancestral traditions of hunting and the aspiring hunters of tomorrow.

Structured around four key modules — Act Relational, Be Intentional, Create Commu nity, and Develop Enthusiasm — the course empowers experienced hunters with the opportunity to make a significant impact by guiding newcomers through the rewarding journey of hunting. It transcends traditional instruction, allowing viewers to become stew ards of growth, tradition and conservation in the hunting world.

INDIANA

Jumbo perch sets record

Blas Lara was fishing Lake Michigan in Lake County during the Mayor’s Fishing Derby on April 21 when he landed a 3-pound, 2-ounce yellow perch, shattering a 43-year-old Indiana state record.

The previous state record for the species was a 2-pound, 8-ounce fish caught from a gravel pit in Vigo County by Roy W. Burkel Jr. in 1981.

Angler dies after fall from boat

A man died after he fell off a boat into the waters of Sam Rayburn Reservoir.

The man, 59-year-old Brad Hensley, of Jasper, was pulled from the waters after a search May 1.

First responders performed CPR before rushing him to CHRISTUS Jasper Memorial Hospital, where Hensley was pronounced dead.

According to witnesses, Hensley fell off his boat close to Mill Creek Park in the Brookeland area. He went underwater and never resurfaced.

A first responder found Hensley just after 11 a.m. in about 8 feet of water. The first responder brought him by boat to shore. He was taken by EMS to the hospital where he died. Game wardens, Lake Rayburn firefighters and the Jasper County Emergency Corps were involved in the search, along with deputies from both Sabine and Jasper County. —Staff report

Cats chasing shad

Continued from page 8 shad.

On Lake Conroe, Todd Rhodes said good numbers of channel catfish have been holding tight to bulkheads during the morning hours, feeding on shad, in 3-5 feet of water. Shad and liver have been

the best bait options.

“The deeper bulkheads have been holding bigger fish in the 15- to 18-inch range,” Rhodes said. “Later in the day, the fish are moving out to 15 to 25 feet over humps and brush piles.”

Photo from B&C Club

MAY 10

DALLAS SAFARI CLUB

DSC Pint Night

SITKA Gear (972) 980-9800 biggame.org

MAY 11

TEXAS DEER ASSOCIATION

TDA Crawfest Prime Acres Whitetails, Woodville texasdeerassociation.com

MAY 16

AUSTIN WOODS & WATERS CLUB

AWWC Social Archery Country, Austin austinwoodsandwaters.org

NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION

Lone Star Longbeards Banquet Brazos Center, Bryan (979) 219-0286 nwtf.org

DELTA WATERFOWL

Houston Clay Shoot Providence Plantation, Rosharon (713) 591-1771 deltawaterfowl.org

DUCKS UNLIMITED Boerne Banquet The Cana Ballroom (281) 684-1858 ducks.org

MAY 17

DATEBOOK

ROLLING PLAINS QUAIL RESEARCH FOUNDATION

Quail Appreciation Day

Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch (806) 346-7409 quailresearch.org

MAY 17-19

NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION

Annual Meeting & Exhibits

Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas nraam.org

MAY 21

TEXAS WILDLIFE ASSOCIATION

Adult Learn to Hunt fundraiser Barron Brewing Company, Saledo texas-wildlife.org

MAY 31

DELTA WATERFOWL

Coastal Prairie Dinner Braman Winery, Richmond (972) 921-1855 deltawaterfowl.org

JUNE 1-2

TEXAS GUN & KNIFE SHOWS

Abilene Convention Center (830) 285-0575 texasgunandknifeshows.com

JUNE 7

OPERATION GAME THIEF

Austin Area Claystoppers Shootout

Hog Heaven Sporting Club (512) 389-4628 ogttx.org

DUCKS UNLIMITED

Guns & Bugs Clay Shoot

Providence Plantation, Rosharon (713) 471-8854 ducks.org

JUNE 7-9

SKEETER BOATS

Owners Tournament Lake Fork Marina (817) 439-3274 basschamps.com

JUNE 8

TEXAS BIGHORN SOCIETY Annual Roundup

Odessa Marriott Hotel (806) 745-7783 texasbighornsociety.org

JUNE 13

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION

East Texas Banquet

Tyler Rose Garden Center (254) 707-0081 rmef.org

JUNE 20

DUCKS UNLIMITED State Convention Moody Gardens, Galveston ducks.org

JUNE 22

DSC FOUNDATION

Annual Gala Sheraton Dallas (214) 980-9800 dscf.org

Fundraisers, Corporate, Parties! Sales/Service all Traps! 40+ Years Experience! (817) 999-1395

HUNTING & CATTLE RANCH FOR SALE

Furnished Cabin With Water, Septic, Electric $410,000 Matus Properties (512) 658-7114 MOBILE SPORTING CLAYS FOR HIRE!

2200+ ACRESGREER COUNTY, OKLAHOMA UCHuntingproperties.com (click on Oklahoma) Video, photos, interactive map, and more! Stacey Greb (580) 678-0662

SOUTHWEST RANCH SALES 3625 acres (2400 aces high fenced) Stephens County, OK Hunt year round, 200 class whitetails

SWRANCHSALES.COM click on Oklahoma Scott Johnston (405) 249-8241

FOR DINNER?

Waygu

feed,

butchered

or

“SOLD OUT” Taking orders for winter 2024 Texakaushi Ranch Leave message for Johhny (817) 597-0129

TEXAS SALTWATER

SABINE LAKE: 68 degrees. Redfish, black drum and sheepshead are good on live shrimp under popping corks along the ship channel and jetties. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastics.

BOLIVAR: 72 degrees. Redfish, black drum and speckled trout are fair along the north jetty on live shrimp.

TRINITY BAY: 75 degrees. Redfish are fair on live shrimp and plastics. Speckled trout are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork over scattered oyster reefs. Black drum are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork along rocks.

EAST GALVESTON BAY: 76 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastic jigs over oyster reefs. Redfish and black drum are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork along shorelines and marshes.

GALVESTON BAY: 75 degrees. Speckled trout, redfish and black drum are fair on live shrimp along wells and protected shorelines.

WEST GALVESTON BAY: 78 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics, topwaters and live croaker. Redfish are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork.

TEXAS CITY: 76 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on live shrimp and soft plastics. Black drum and redfish are fair on shrimp and cracked crab.

FREEPORT: 72 degrees. Speckled trout, redfish and black drum are fair on shrimp under a popping cork in the cuts and back lakes.

EAST MATAGORDA BAY: 70 degrees. Redfish and black drum are fair on shrimp in back lakes. Speckled trout, redfish and flounder are fair on croaker along shorelines.

WEST MATAGORDA BAY: 70 degrees. Redfish and black drum are fair on shrimp in back lakes. Speckled trout, redfish and flounder are fair on croaker along shorelines.

PORT O’CONNOR: 72 degrees. Black drum

are good on dead shrimp inside of the jetties, halfway down. Redfish are good on Spanish sardines and live shrimp. Speckled trout are fair on live shrimp. Bull redfish are fair on piggy perch and Spanish sardines between the jetties and Bird Island.

SAN ANTONIO BAY: 75 degrees. Speckled trout are good on top-waters. Redfish are good on cut bait and live shrimp.

ROCKPORT: 68 degrees. Speckled trout are good on croaker along grass and drop-offs. Redfish are good on shrimp, cut menhaden and mullet on flats and along channel edges. Black drum are good on dead shrimp.

REDFISH BAY: 70 degrees. Redfish are good along shorelines and islands on cut perch, sea lice and menhaden. Speckled trout are fair along drop-offs on croaker. Black drum are slow.

PORT ARANSAS: 68 degrees. Redfish are good on shrimp, blue crab and cut bait. Speckled trout are good on croaker and shrimp.

CORPUS CHRISTI: 70 degrees. Redfish are good on perch, sea lice and cut menhaden. Black drum are good on dead shrimp. Speckled trout are fair on croaker.

BAFFIN BAY: 73 degrees. Redfish and black drum are good on live bait on the south side of the bay and in the Meadows. Speckled trout are good on top-waters and soft plastics along the south shore rocks and the Land Cut.

PORT MANSFIELD: 71 degrees. Redfish are good on soft plastics and top-waters. Speckled trout are good on top-waters, twitch baits and soft plastics.

SOUTH PADRE: 73 degrees. Flounder are fair on live shrimp. Speckled trout are good on live shrimp under popping cork. Redfish are good on cut mullet.

Small bass lake

Continued from page 9

increase the number of and quality of fish in that lake,” he said. “We are really trying to con serve the large bass aspect of Davy Crockett.”

The Florida largemouth bass stocked at the lake come from the offspring of fish donated through the ShareLunker program in which anglers provide bass caught that are 13 pounds or larger.

“The goal is to really ramp up the large bass potential by stocking up lakes with those fish,” Bennett said.

A bass shocked to the surface was in the process of swallowing a large gizzard shad. Photo from Inland Fisheries Denison Division.