The Outpost

SURF FISHING SALT WATER FLY FISHING THE FLORIDA KEYS

GET YOUR GUN IN SHAPE

BOWFISHING NEW DUCK NUMBERS

TROUT ADVENTURE TRAIL

WIN GEAR!

ALABAMA PHOTO CONTEST RADIO FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

PLUS: RECIPES, THE OUTPOST MUSIC & MORE

S E I T R A P &

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

36

22 TROUT ADVENTURE TRAIL

11

GETTING YOUR GUN AND YOU IN SHAPE

33

ALABAMA PHOTO CONTEST

59

40 FLORIDA KEYS

SURF FISHING

15

WHERE ARE THE CATFISH

19

RECIPES CATFISH FERAL HOG

56 BOW FISHING

28

OUTPOST GEAR

46

SALT WATER FLY FISHING

SMART BAITS

60

DUCK NUMBERS

65

TAKING OFF TICKS

66

PHOTO OTM

67

GUIDES

71

THE BACK WOODS

THE OUTPOST MUSIC

51

Editor’s Letter: • Here’s an interesting factoid. Older first-time buyers – the 55 to 65 age group – indicated concern that firearms may no longer be available to them was one of many reasons for their purchase.

Companies that manufacture guns and ammunition will be pouring over this research in greater detail and if you’re interested and you’re a member of NSSF, you too can dig into the data. Here’s the member link: www.nssf.org/members Log in and select NSSF Industry Research.

SO WHAT? This data represent a great opportunity for those of us who enjoy hunting. First time gun buyers of both genders are the future of hunting. If we give them encouragement and information – without going into information-overload and pontificating about the good ‘ol days about the sport we love – they might become people who respect the outdoor sports and the land and environment that makes these sports possible.

Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about firearms sales unless we own stock in Winchester/Browning (NYSE: OLN) or Strum Ruger (NYSE: RGR). However, the folks at the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) do and what they’ve discovered about first time gun buyers is interesting for outdoor enthusiasts to consider.

The trend towards more women learning about firearms and hunting is great news for the sport. Getting kids interested and trained in firearm safety, their use and then getting them out on the dove field or deer stand is THE most important thing that hunters can do to continue this ancient tradition. Why?

The “executive summary” of this research reveals that most first time gun buyers are involved in one or more shooting activity and women are motivated to buy that first gun largely for personal defense. No surprises here. However, digging into the details of this study reveal several nuances that worth a couple of paragraphs, especially if you’ve tried (unsuccessfully) to buy ammo at your local gun store recently.

When more people learn about the fun, camaraderie and excitement of hunting, more hunting licenses will be purchased and more wildlife habitat can be protected by the states and feds, benefitting all of us. When there are more people comfortable (i.e. not afraid) of recreational guns, there will be fewer negative, knee-jerk reactions to hunting and gun ownership. When there are more kids in the field, pursuing wild game, there will be fewer kids in front of computers and TVs and less childhood obesity and juvenile inspired mayhem.

THE DEVIL IN THE DETAILS The study, “NSSF Report: First-Time Gun Buyer,” was done to help determine the motivations for the first firearm purchase and how these firearms are being used. The online research was conducted in March/April 2013 and involved consumers aged 22 to 65 who bought their first firearm during 2012.

KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY INCLUDE • The majority of first-time buyers (60.3 percent) tend to be active, using their gun once per month or more, with one in five reporting usage of once a week or more.

• Target shooting is by far the most popular shooting activity among first-time gun owners, with 84.3 percent of respondents saying they used their firearms for this purpose, followed by hunting (37.7 percent). Practical pistol shooting (17.3 percent) and clay-target shooting (14.6 percent) were shooting sports also enjoyed by first-time buyers.

• The top-ranking factors driving first-time gun purchases are home defense (87.3 percent), self-defense (76.5 percent) and the desire to share shooting activities with family and friends (73.2 percent). Women, in particular, are highly focused on personal defense and self-sufficiency.

We hope you enjoy this issue of The Outpost. We packed it with news you can use. Check out this month’s destination: The fishing Mecca of the Florida Keys. We also have some tips on a sport that capturing the imagination of anglers – saltwater fly fishing. We have news about outdoor photo contests, how to get your gun and yourself ready for dove season, duck numbers and cool, new CDs from John Fogarty and “The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County.”

We’d love to hear from you. Let know what outdoor activities you’d like to know more about. I answer every email so shoot me one. art@theoutpostmagazine.com.

Later, Art Young Editor – The Outpost

FIELD NOTES FROM OUTPOST READERS

Haven’t read this article but I am hoping that a Sportsman’s Magazine would be talking about burial plots for deer and not food plots.

As I western deer and elk hunter I am diametrically opposed to food plots or baiting of big game in any form.

Loved the gator hunting article. Give us more gators!

BD South Florida

Tight lines, Way to go Donny (Bartow). Gator-dun boy.

Phil

HunterChick

(Referring to Donny GatorMan Bartow) You’re on the cover dude!

Whit Georgia

I am not sure about you, but I would never ever go Rattlesnake hunting. In fact, I would pay someone NOT to take me. Always love the music reviews. Thanks for putting out a great publication!

Casey Pittsburgh, PA

THE OUTPOST Gorilla Marketing, LLC • 770-675-7200 Jason Martin, Partner • Jim Zegers, King of the Jungle • Art Young, Editor in Chief Contributing Writers: Art Young, Jim Zegers Photo Credits: Jason Martin, Kirk Driskell, Tonly Martin, Taryn Martin, Brian Smith, Hayden Guynes, Flickr Commons, Michael Dunn, Barbara Hicks-Cooper, Chris Swaffer Baker, Nicole Zegers, Brian Baker, Jake Guynes, Jack Unruh, Chris Yates, Lisa Campbell Walls, Florida Bow Fishing Special thanks to the Alabama photo winners: Joe Patrick, Taylor Mathews, Roxanne Kelly, Erin Kerner, Ron Burkett, James Hybart III, Jeff Johnston, Richard Curtin, Michael Clements, Pete Dobbs, Lisa Comer, Michael Riffe, Brad Lackey, Keith Bozeman, Jenna Burgess, Debbie Goddard, Leslie Kirk THE OUTPOST© is produced and copyrighted 2013 by Gorilla Marketing LLC, Marietta GA 30062.

Reproduction in whole or part without permission is expressly forbidden.

ISSUE IX

ISSUE VII

2012 DEER HUNTING SPECIAL EDITION SHOOTING THE MOON

MAKE THAT 300 YARD SHOT!!!

MOUNTAIN BIKING OUTPOST FFICTION OUTPOST IC CTION

DEER HUNTING CHECKLIST HOW TO CAMO YOUR GUN VIDEO THE BUCK STOPS HERE SCENT CONTROL

QUAIL HUNTING PATTERNING A SHOTGUN

GETTING INTO SHAPE FOR OUTDOORS SPORTS

CASHING IN ON WINTER VARMENTS WHY IN-HAND SCORING OF BUCKS IS ON ITS WAY OUT

FIELD DRESSING A DEER VIDEO RATTLING ANTLERS

PLUS: VENISON RECIPES, SQUIRREL HUNTING & MUMFORD & SONS

CHEF KEVIN GILLESPIE PLUS: FLOUNDER RECIPES, TOP 12 CD’S OF 2012 & MORE...

HAVE YOU MISSED ANY ISSUES? They’re all waiting for you at our website WWW.THEOUTPOSTLIFE.COM GO AHEAD. TAKE THE SAFETY OFF AND SQUEEZE THE TRIGGER.

CAN YOU SWING A SHOTGUN OR CAST A LINE LIKE YOU USED TO? PROBABLY NOT Maybe your shoulders and arms are sore. You might need some upper-body rehab. Before your next adventure, try this.

The all new Stand Up Grinder by Hudson is perfect for the hunter or fisherman whose shoulders and arms have been worn down by repetitive motion. Why go the gym when you can build upper body strength, while you’re watching the game on TV. Don’t let soreness or the onset of arthritis affect your hunting and fishing fun. To shoot better and cast farther, order the Hudson Fitness UBE now.

Call (888.239.4559), say you heard about Stand Up Grinder in The Outpost and get $600.00 off.

You can also click here:

www.hudsonfitness.com

GETTING YOUR SHOTGUN AND YOURSELF READY FOR BIRD SEASON

With bird season just around the corner, August is a great time to get your gun and yourself ready. If you’re like most people, you haven’t picked up that gun since you cleaned it after your last duck hunt or spring turkey hunt. Hopefully, you gave it a good scrubbing and oiling before putting it back in its offseason storage place.

If you’re a lazy slug and didn’t clean it well after your last hunt, you definitely need to get some cleaning and lubricating done before September 1st. After this chore is completed, you might also consider getting those eyes and hands back into hunting shape too. Here’s how you can get your gun and yourself ready to rock and roll on opening day.

HOW TO CLEAN THAT NASTY GUN I’m hard on guns. I’m not proud of this, but it’s true. As a result, I’ve always used a simple, pump action 12 and 20 gauge shotgun for bird hunting. In one year, my poor Remington 870 was: (1) dropped in a muddy stock tank during dove season, (2) dragged by its sling through a corn field during pheasant season by a less than obedient but fun-loving dog and (3) covered with mud and water from walking waist-deep in a rice field during a goose hunt. As you can see, I’m not worthy of an expensive, well-crafted shotgun. I’d just ruin it.

However, after every hunt, I get out my well-worn, ancient cleaning stuff, my scrubbing spray and clean out the barrels and working parts and oil ‘em up. I’ve used that 870 every year for the past 20 years and it’s still the best shotgun I’ve ever fired. Plus, it is practically indestructible. Even by me!

If you are lucky enough to have a cool shotgun such as a Benelli auto-loader or even a workhorse like my 870, try to keep it out of the mud and muck and clean it every time you bring it home from a hunt.

Here are some suggestions.

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First off, remember what your daddy or granddaddy told you many years ago, “assume the gun is loaded…every time you pick it up.” This is especially true when you’re about to clean it. Every year, hundreds of people are killed or blinded by shotguns that were supposed to be unloaded. Before you start the cleaning, double and triple check that the gun is empty.

FOR A PUMP-ACTION SHOTGUN: Point the muzzle away and keep fingers off the trigger Press the bolt release (usually in front of or behind the trigger guard).

Cycle the pump action. Repeat until no shells are visible in the magazine tube or in the chamber.

Be double-sure your firearm is unloaded. You do not want an unexpected boom while cleaning your firearm.

For an Auto-loading Shotgun Be sure you always handle your firearm safely. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, treat the firearm as if it were loaded, and keep your finger off the trigger.

Pull the bolt-grip back, and release it. Repeat until no shells are visible in the magazine tube or in the chamber.

Keep your ammunition separate from your shotgun while cleaning.

12

shotgun cleaning Cleaning and Oiling Cleaning a pump-action shotgun doesn't need to be a lengthy process. As long as undue amounts of sand or dirt have not gotten into the action, the shotgun should function reliably. If you need to do a more extensive cleaning, or are using an auto-loading shotgun, this is the process: No stripping is needed; opening and closing the bolt as required is sufficient. If the gun is extremely dirty, don’t gamble on having a ruined hunt, take it to a gunsmith and have it professionally cleaned and oiled.

Wipe down all components using some paper towel (or cloth, but this is less important to be lint-free). o o

Remove as much of the thick, caked-on carbon buildup created by the friction of use. Also wipe off any old oil and all “unburnt” powder buildup.

Be sure to wipe the ejector and the area around the chamber. You will find certain areas turn the paper towel black (clean these areas more).

Spray solvent (preferably designed to be safe to continually contact your skin, like M-Pro 7) on all possibly dirty components. o

A liberal amount of solvent is better than not enough.

Let the solvent sit for a couple minutes.

Make sure any area with dirt, carbon buildup, or “unburnt” powder has a healthy amount of solvent on it, soaking in.

Scrub the whole gun with a brush (no metal bristles — like a toothbrush).

This works in the solvent and loosens up the buildup on the gun. Try to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Wipe the gun clean with lint-free cloth (you can buy pre-cut cloth, but a clean old shirt or socks also work).

Get everywhere you put the solvent (should be pretty much everywhere) and wipe it until it wipes clean.

Wipe down the whole gun (inside and out) with a solvent-soaked lint-free cloth again, and look again for any areas turning the cloth dark, and clean it.

Use the pick to get off any thick chunks of carbon or powder buildup, or buildup in tight parts of the gun. o

The most common area with carbon deposits is in the chamber. Buildup occurs in the corners of the pieces of metal.

Swab the barrel with a cloth soaked with solvent.

Repeat with clean cloths (still soaked in solvent) until a cloth comes out clean. Then swab it with an oil-soaked cloth, this coat of oil will protect your barrel from oxidation (rusting). o

A quick-and-dirty method for a less precise cleaning would be just to run a bore snake through the barrel.

Oil all the components requiring lubrication.

Often the manual for the gun will have specific areas needing oil, but a quick look at where the gun is wearing will give you a good indication of the needs. Be sure to oil the rails for the bolt and the bolt itself. o Try to keep oil away from the openings into the firing pin housing (oil is a collector of dirt and powder buildup, and buildup around your firing pin can prevent it from firing).

Wipe down the whole gun and remove any excess oil.

13

GETTING YOURSELF READY Consider the typical situation of opening day of bird season. Unless you’re independently wealthy, you have to work for a living and those precious hunting trips are few and far between. Most likely, you’ve planned this trip since mid-summer. You’ve gotten all of your gear, guns and ammo in the truck and on opening day you find yourself out in a dove field waiting for the first flock to coming cruising in - ready to meet their maker.

As the sun rises, the first doves of the season are seen coming your way. You remember to keep your head down and tell yourself to wait until you see the whites of their little dove eyes before you swing your shotgun and take the shot. All goes as planned until you take the first, second and third shots and miss with all three.

Very likely, this scenario will be repeated for about the first or even second hour of the hunt.

WHY? You’ve probably not picked up a shotgun for several months (see “making a living” above) and your shotgunmounting mechanical skills, not to mention your eye-to-hand skills are not even close to where they need to be in order to hit a tiny bird flying by at about 50 miles per hour! There’s only one way to avoid this waste of ammo. Use August to get back into hunting shape by hitting the sporting clays range a couple of times a week.

This practice can be greatly enhanced when you bring along a buddy to help you determine whether you are shooting ahead or behind the targets. If you’re lucky enough to have a shooting instructor at the range, having him/her watch your mechanics and follow-through and give you some advice can also pay big dividends on opening day.

That first hunting trip of the year is one of the best experiences in outdoor sports. Since bird season is just around the corner, now is the time to get your gun and yourself in hunting shape.

14

WHERE ARE THE CATFISH HIDING?

How good would a heaping plate of freshly caught catfish taste tonight? For my money, pretty darn good!

These freshwater fish are some of the most popular fish for two reasons. They are large with lots of meat on those bones and they taste great. Whether you’re looking for blues, channel cats or flatheads, you’ll find these often monster-sized fish in rivers, creeks and lakes, if you know where to look.

TROTLINES OR ANGLING? There are a couple tactics used for catching for catfish – trotlines and regular fishing tackle. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, although many fishermen turn up their nose in distain at the thought of someone stringing up a trotline and checking it periodically to see if any big cats have been snared. However, if the “big boom” ever happens (whatever the “big boom” turns out to be), and we are all trying to survive using a minimum of technology, a good ‘ol fashion trotline would be something that the post-apocalypse sportsman/survivor might want to have a passing acquaintance with.

Trotlines are too passive for some people. While it does take some skill to set up the lines, bait the multiple hooks, run the lines and haul in the catfish, many fishermen still prefer the angling approach to fishing for any species, including catfish. Make no mistake, trotlines help you catch fish and if you’ve never set one out you will be surprised at how productive they can be.

Trotlines also have one more, teeny tiny problem. They’re illegal in many states. These states include: Alabama, Alaska, Florida, Maine, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In New Mexico and West Virginia, trotlines are restricted to only certain areas. In Virginia, trotlines can only be used for non-game fish. In many other states there are special requirements for the length of the lines, how many hooks, and how far apart the hooks can be.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1csuFmZ_Kyc

TO REGISTER CLICK:

www.sportsmenna.com/grand_prize.php

FISHHOUND IS SNIFFING OUT CATFISH If you want to catch big catfish with a rod, reel and skill, you still have to find places where these fish hang out. To that end, a new membership website called “Fishhound” has made a list. Joining this community is free, but to get the full benefits it will cost you a few bucks. The people who have put this site together seem to know what they’re doing. You can check out this site at www.fishhound.com.

In a press release, Rick Patri who is the VP of Operations for Fishhound (and probably gets to go fishing more than you and me!!) noted, “Catfish are among the most popular game fish targeted by U.S. anglers, and they inhabit countless bodies of water across the nation. Our goal was to narrow things down to a list of the 50 top locations - lakes and rivers that offer anglers plenty of action and a shot at some trophy size, maybe even record-breaking cats."

Fishhound collected this information from outdoor writers, Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail, Ripping Lips and other experts on catfish. Without further ado and adding the customary drumroll which lets you, our esteemed reader, know that something important is about to be announced, here are Fishhound’s Top 50 Lakes and Rivers for Catfish.

BEST CATFISH LAKES

BEST CATFISH RIVERS

1. Walter F. George Reservoir (Lake Eufaula), GA, AL 2. Wheeler Reservoir, AL 3. Ft. Gibson Lake, OK 4. Lake Wylie, SC/NC 5. San Carlos Reservoir, AZ 6. Calamus Reservoir, NE 7. Lake Texoma, TX 8. Barkley Lake, KY 9. Watts, Barr, TN 10. Grand Lake, OK 11. Kentucky Lake, TN 12. Lake Ouachita, AR 13. Chickamauga Lake, TN 14. Merritt Reservoir, NE 15. Lake Guntersville, AL 16. Truman Lake, MO 17. Kerr Reservoir, OK 18. Lake of the Ozarks, MO 19. Lake Caddo, TX 20. Toledo Bend Reservoir, TX 21. Logan Martin, AL 22. Lake Conroe, TX 23. Lake Mendota, WI 24. Clear Lake, CA 25. Lake Marion (Santee Cooper Lakes), SC

1. Trinity River, TX 2. Colorado River, CA 3. Cape Fear River, NC 4. Red River, MN 5. Cumberland River, TN, KY 6. Missouri River, Waverly, MO 7. James River, Hopewell, VA 8. Tennessee River, Savannah, TN 9. Ohio River, Vevay, IN 10. Kansas River, Kansas City, MO 11. Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau, MO 12. Red River, Grand Forks, ND 13. Mississippi River, Baton Rouge, LA 14. Ohio River, Gallipolis, OH 15. Mississippi River, Natchez, MS 16. Missouri River, St. Joseph, MO 17. Missouri River, South Sioux City, NE 18. Rock River, Dixon, IL 19. Cumberland River, Clarksville, TN 20. Alabama River, Selma, AL 21. Altamaha River, GA 22. Colorado River (Lower Colorado) 23. Red River, Alexandria, LA 24. Apalachicola River, FL 25. Illinois River, Peoria, IL

So, are you fishing any of these rivers and lakes? I’ve fished a couple and I remember seeing a LOT of catfish.

Once you catch one of these big boys, the next step is my favorite part. You get to eat him. Here’s a good recipe for fresh catfish. Bon appetite! Which is French for “eat hearty and watch out for bones!”

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THE OUTPOST: RECIPES ART’S SMOKED CATFISH If you like grillin’, try this one.

Prep Time: 10 min • Inactive Prep Time: 1 hr • Cook Time: 45 min Creamy Orange Dill Sauce: • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped • 2/3 cup plain yogurt • 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion • 2/3 cup sour cream • 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley • 2 tablespoons orange juice • 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper • Dash hot sauce • Salt and freshly ground black pepper * Add all the ingredients to a serving bowl and serve with the smoked catfish.

Directions Combine the buttermilk and hot sauce in a 13 by 9-inch casserole dish. Add catfish fillets and cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the catfish from the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels. Set up your grill for indirect heat at a medium-low temperature, about 275 degrees F. Mix together the oregano, lemon peel and salt, pepper, in a small bowl. Lightly coat the fish with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the catfish fillets. Put the catfish on the grill away from the hot coals. Smoke the catfish until it is fully cooked through and golden brown, about 45 minutes. Remove the fish from the grill to a serving platter and serve with the Orange Dill Cream Sauce.

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THE OUTPOST: RECIPES

Pull Some Pork and Save a Stream

As any farmer, rancher, hunter or even hard-core animal rights activist can attest to, feral hogs are a menace and completely out of control. In many areas, there are literally thousands of these porkers roaming the countryside, decimating the rivers, creeks, wildlife habitat and generally wreaking havoc.

If you have feral hogs in your area, you owe it to the wildlife to get out and bring one back, field dressed and ready for the game processor. Ironically, the meat from these destructive critters is both tasty and healthy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both lean and flavorable. The trick is finding an easy and delicious way to prepare it.

As a public service, the smart folks at the Texas Parks and Wildlife department put together a great video on how feral hogs can be turned into the best pork tacos youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever eaten. Take a look at this video then grab your gun and ammo and ask the nearest farmer or rancher if they would mind you harvesting a few tacos off their land.

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GLDy35byNE&list=PLB4DA6A0F6DDB161B&index=1

RADIO FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS The Outpost Radio is the first radio station dedicated to hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. You can hear us on your smartphone, desktop or tabletâ&#x20AC;Śjust about anywhere. The Outpost Radio is a mix of great music and information that celebrates the outdoors! Give us a listen. Click on The Outpost logo below to listen now!

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TROUT ADVENTURE TRAIL

Life is too short to go through it without some adventure. About an hour and a half from Atlanta, Georgia, on the southern end of the world famous Appalachian Trail, hikers and trout fishermen can find a unique outdoor adventure – the Trout Adventure Trail.

The Trout Adventure Trail is a “do it yourself” and “plan your own” hiking and learning experience for kids of all ages along legendary trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest in northern Georgia. It has designated by the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and the thousands of participants who have made the trek as one of the top12 wintertime activities in the region. This part of the state is known to anglers as the trout capital of the state.

It offers individual hikers, families and organized groups the opportunity to hike, learn and earn a distinctive commemorative award patch as recognition of the commitment to outdoor education, conservation and accomplishment.

Plus, trout aficionados can find plenty of Rainbows and Brookies to keep them busy!

HOW TO COMBINE HIKING TROUT FISHING AND THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL CHOOSING A TRAIL As the website (http://troutadventuretrail.org) for the Trout Adventure Trail notes, its designated trails’ system provide a variety of hiking options in length, degree of difficulty in terrain and outdoors experiences. In order to plan a successful, stress-free hike, it’s advised that hikers take into account the age, abilities and preparedness of the weakest hiker in the group. The weather and the amount of daylight available is also an important consideration. Finally, deciding on the outdoor features that the group wants to experience is important.

It’s a good idea to allow a cushion of extra time for unanticipated contingencies or for fun opportunities to detour from the plan that may present themselves in the course of the hike. These can include a dip in one of the ice-cold creeks that run beside the trail or getting out the fly rod and gear for some impromptu fishing.

W W W. T H E O U T P O S T L I F E . C O M

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2.25 miles to Doublehead Gap Road and Blue Ridge

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HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR CHOOSING A ROUTE Route

Length Difficulty (+/- miles) Rating

Description

Features

RED

Springer Mountain parking area to Springer Mountain and return.

1.8

Moderate

Steep uphill hike to vista view atop Springer Mountain and start point (southern terminus) of the Appalachian Trail, and return.

BLUE

Three Forks to Long Creek Falls and return.

2.2

Easy

Gentle uphill walk to beautiful falls along Long Creek, and return.

Springer Mountain parking area to 1.8 Springer Mountain and return to vehicles.

Drive to Three Forks ... Three Forks to Long Creek Falls and return to 2.2 vehicles.

Moderate

Steep uphill hike to long-range view and start (southern terminus) of Appalachian Trail atop Springer Mountain, and downhill return.

Easy

Separate hike with gentle uphill walk along trout stream to beautiful falls, and downhill return. Both hikes feature a good place to rest and talk before return trip.

GREEN

Start at Springer Mountain parking 10.2 area and hike to Springer Mountain, descend from Springer Mountain on Appalachian Trail to Long Creek Falls, and return to Springer Mountain parking area on Appalachian Trail.

Moderate

Steep uphill to vista atop Springer Mountain and start point (southern terminus) of Appalachian Trail, and descent to Three Forks, crossing Stover Creek; proceeds along Long Creek to waterfall and returns on Appalachian Trail to Springer Mountain parking area. Along the route between Three Forks and Springer Mountain, hikers experience cathedral stand of Eastern Hemlock trees.

GOLD*

Start at Three Forks and hike to 12.4 Long Creek Falls, backtrack to Three Forks and after crossing creek, take Benton-MacKaye Trail to highest intersection with Appalachian Trail near top of Springer Mountain. Turn left and ascend to top of Springer Mountain, and descend on Appalachian Trail to Three Forks.

Moderate

Gold route covers the full extent of the Trout Adventure Trail. The experience includes walking along Long Creek to magnificent waterfalls and ascent on Benton-MacKaye Trail to Springer Mountain with stream crossings and a wonderful view during the ascent to Springer Mountain. The Appalachian Trail to the top of Springer Mountain affords another great view and arrival at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. At one point, the hike downhill to Three Forks passes along a cathedral stand of mature Eastern Hemlock trees.

Easy to Moderate

Planning the route is part of the fun of the experience.

RED & BLUE

CUSTOM There is virtually no limit to the ROUTES customized routes available.

Planning or time constraints, abilities of the hikers, educational experiences, and merit badge or rank requirements for scouts can all be accommodated with custom options of routes.

LIKE THE OUTPOST ON FACEBOOK FOR A CHANCE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES!!!

THE OUTPOST: TROUT ADVENTURE TRAIL WANT TO EARN A PATCH? A great way for kids to celebrate the great outdoors and commemorate successfully completing the Trout Adventure Trail is to earn a patch. The process is easy and fun.

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•

Any person who hikes any part of any one of the designated along the Trout Adventure Trail is eligible for the exclusive official patch provided by Trout Unlimited (one patch per person). An adult (parent, youth leader, and teacher) must confirm completion of the segment of the trail hiked.

•

Patches can be obtained at any of the trial headquarters. Patches will be provided to the adult responsible for providing the names and ages of children and the names of adults who hiked on the trail.

•

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for successive patches if they take separate hikes on the Trout Adventure Trail more than five (5) days apart. A child may earn up to two standard patches per year for qualifying hikes.

GET STARTED Late summer and early fall are perfect times to hike the Trout Adventure Trail. For more information on the fun, simply click: http://troutadventuretrail.org/Our_Partners.htm.

Let the adventure begin!

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Keeping Hot Drinks Hot and Cold Drinks Cold Eco Vessel and Mossy Oak team up for camo bottles

It’s critical to stay hydrated when hunting, fishing or hiking and part of that challenge lies in keeping the liquid at an ideal temperature. Eco Vessel has partnered with Mossy Oak to launch the Mossy Oak Collection of TriMax™ triple insulated water bottles. Featuring the Break-Up Infinity® pattern, the line is now available in a 45-ounce BIGFOOT bottle ($37.95) and a 25-ounce Boulder bottle ($28.95).

Both bottles offer Eco Vessel's TriMax triple insulation. This vacuum-sealed technology has been tested to keep drinks cold for up to 36 hours and retains heat for up to 8 hours. The bottles also feature a functional screw top lid that has a wide mouth opening to easily accommodate ice and a convenient spout for drinking.

The Mossy Oak Collection can be purchased directly at www.ecovessel.com as well as through Eco Vessel's U.S. retailers.

Eco Vessel is based in Boulder, Colorado at the base of the Rocky Mountains and the company’s product designs are motivated by the outdoor lifestyle in Colorado. It’s dedicated to crafting hydration products from safe, sturdy, sustainable materials while offering innovation and practicality for everyone - from children to world-class athletes. You can find the company on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ecovessel.

Eco Vessel is an officially licensed partner of Haas Outdoors Inc. the home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com).

Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. These camo patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide.

If you would like a chance to win a free Eco Vessel/Mossy Oak TriMax water bottle, LIKE The Outpost on Facebook

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It’s about Time.

It’s about Certainty.

Welcome to 401K ProAdvisor Isn’t it about Ɵme somebody was firmly focused on improving reƟrement outcomes? How has your 401(k) plan been performing? How much commission is your provider drawing from your plan?

That’s where 401KProAdvisors excels because our team of dedicated reƟrement plan specialists are qualified to provide a comprehensive suite of reƟrement plan services.

i CreaƟve Plan Design i Customized EducaƟon i Ongoing Plan Review

i Plan Benchmarking i ERISA 3(21) & 3(38) i 403(b) & Pension ConsulƟng

To get the whole story, call George Richerson at 770.436.4097 or visit www.401kproadvisor.com.

Securi es offered through Triad Advisors, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Wealth & Pension Services Group, Inc. Wealth & Pension Services Group, Inc. is not affiliated with Triad Advisors, Inc.

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Your Binoculars Can’t Swim You might want to invest in the floating marine strap from Vero Vellini

This time of year, you’re probably spending a lot of time on a boat or at least near some cool water. That means your optic gear is one unexpected wave away from dropping into the drink.

The Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap is a great flotation device to protect your binocular, waterproof camera, GPS, radio or other expensive handheld-device, should it accidentally go overboard.

Davy Jones already has a nice pair of binoculars. He doesn’t need yours!

Crafted of extra-thick Neoprene padding with safety-orange jersey material on either side, the Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap is easy to see if it goes overboard and easy to grab with hands or a hook, so your precious items can be brought safely back onboard. The 15mm-thick and 65mm-wide Neoprene strap is designed to keep afloat a 7x50 or equivalent-size binocular, camera or handheld item and its soft design also feels exceptionally comfortable around the neck. The comfort of the Vero Vellini strap is extremely important after a long day in the sun.

Keep your gear stays afloat with a Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap. They’re available from West Marine Products (www.westmarine.com) (800) 262-8464 or the Vero Vellini products can be purchased online: www.pioneer-research.com/assets/pdf/VV_2012_Catalog.pdf

Would you like a chance to win a free Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap?

Just LIKE The Outpost on Facebook

www.gundogbroker.com

Want to know more about selecting the right pup? email: Kirk@gundogbroker.com

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A Camo iPhone Holster From Realtree® The OtterBox Armor Series keeps your smartphone safe

Smartphones have become an important part of outdoor sports and they take a pounding from the elements. The new OtterBox Armor Series® with Realtree camo, safeguards the Apple® iPhone 4/4s and iPhone 5 from any hazard. These new camo iPhone cases pair the most versatile camouflage with the most versatile waterproof protection.

The Armor Series holster, which fits both iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5 Armor Series cases, is also now available.

The Armor Series fuses four layers of premium protection to defend against water, drops, dust and crush. Corrosion-resistant metal latches, o-ring technology and secure port covers keep water out and allows the Armor Series to undergo submersions for 30 minutes in up to 6.6 feet. of water. Vents and port covers are made of a non-permeable membrane and a protective mesh layer allows sound to pass through, while keeping harmful elements out. Advanced materials protect the device from 10-foot drops while bumpers in each corner absorb shock. High-strength reinforced plastic allows the Armor Series to withstand two tons of force and a built-in screen protector guards against scratches. A lanyard is included for hands-free carrying.

The Armor Series is now available in Realtree Xtra® for iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5 and Max-4® for iPhone 5. The Otterbox is available at all AT&T stores.

Want a free OtterBox iPhone holster?

Just LIKE The Outpost on Facebook for your chance to win.

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Outdoor Shots of Sweet Home Alabama

Sometimes, the best wild game shots are made with a camera. Outdoor Alabama magazine wants to see your best outdoor shots of this sweet state for its 2014 photo contest. However, if you want to win this shoot-out you’d better hurry because photos are only being accepted through October.

Entries must be submitted on a CD-ROM or a DVD and accompanied by an official entry form, which can be downloaded at www.outdooralabama.com/outdoor-alabama/photo_con.cfm. The contest is open to any amateur photographer except employees of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and members of their immediate families. For purposes of this contest, an amateur is defined as someone who does not earn a living from photography.

The Categories are Diverse Photographers may enter up to 10 photos, which may be in the same category or spread among different categories. The categories include: Alabama State Parks, Birds, Mammals, Reptiles/Amphibians/Fish, Other Native Wildlife, Scenic/Pictorial, Nature-Based Activities, Wild Flora, Youth Ages 6-12 and Youth Ages 13-18. The winning entries will be published in the February 2014 issue of Outdoor Alabama and exhibited across the state in several different venues.

According to Outdoor Alabama Editor Kim G. Nix, the key to getting a good photo is a mixture of good technique and selecting subject matter that draws the eye. “People always ask what we’re looking for in a good photo. The first thing I tell them is to make sure the picture is in focus. That’s really the first criteria in our selection—a sharp photo. Next, try to isolate your subject so that bird, plant or person is the main focal point. Compose the photo so there’s not a lot of competing background,” she said.

“This photo contest encourages people to explore the outdoors with their cameras. We’d really like to see more youth involved in the contest. We have special categories for them so they are competing against others the same ages,” she added.

Time to Focus Entries must be postmarked by Oct. 31, 2013. For more information, call 800-262-3151, write to Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest, 64 N. Union St., Ste. 106, Montgomery, AL 36130, or email Kim Nix at kim.nix@dcnr.alabama.gov.

You can view some of the winners of the 2013 photo contest on the next two pages or to view all 38 winners visit www.outdooralabama.com/photos/oaphotos/13winners/

Surf’s Up! Where’s my

Catching a big wave, while standing astride a surfboard, is an experience that words are inadequate to describe. If you’re a surfer, your adrenaline starts pumping when somebody screams “surf’s up!” However, if you enjoy keeping your feet firmly on the sand as those waves coming rolling in, you might enjoy the excitement of wade fishing the surf.

This type of fishing doesn’t take a lot of specialized equipment and it often leads to a bounty of fresh seafood for the table. Plus, since pursuing this sport involves going to the beach, the weather is usually perfect. Here are a few tips on wade fishing for the next time someone says: “surf’s up!”

TACKLE, BAIT AND LURES THAT WORK BEST FOR WADE FISHING Choosing the right bait and tackle for wade fishing is petty simple. Live bait or lures that have proven to work for the type of fish that are available in the area should be used. This means that a lure that might be irresistible to the fish off the Florida Keys or California coast might not be so effective for someone fishing off Galveston Island in Texas.

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Rod?

Fishing guides suggest that the best kind of fishing rod is a 6 foot or 6 ½ foot, stiff rod with a good bait caster. A 20# test line is normally used, but local fishing guides and stores might have some better recommendations for the line based on what they hear from other fishermen.

The most effective bait will also depend on a couple of other factors. Will the wade fishing be done on the bay side or in the surf?

Bay fishing is a much more civilized endeavor because the fisherman is not constantly being threatened with being knocked over by the surf. However, wade fishing in the surf can yield an amazingly wide diversity of fish species and if the angler gets knocked down a time or two, that’s the price of adventure!

CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THE OUTPOST?

Most wade fishing guides feel that the best live bait for wade fishing is shrimp.

This makes sense because the fish immediately off-shore would be accustomed to chowing-down on this tasty fish. This live shrimp should be head-hooked through the shrimp’s black eyes or tail-hooked on a small treble hook about two feet under a weighted popper cork.

Numerous fishing experts have noted that, while shrimp is logical live bait, it won’t always help catch a wide range of ocean-dwelling fish such as flounder and speckled trout. For these fish, artificial lures seem to work best.

Coastal fishing guides note the best lures for the shallow flats of the Gulf of Mexico coastline are tied jigs and weedless, floating plugs. If wade fishing in the surf in the morning hours, the fisherman should use darkcolored soft plastics, or topwaters, such as Skitterwalks if the water is clear. Later in the day, the best lures are silver or gold spoons and light colored plastics.

For wade fishing in the bay, the angler is advised to start with soft plastics, topwaters and spoons for the grassy areas. Overall, most experts agree that the most productive fishing lures for the ocean are baitfish and shrimp imitations.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THEOUTPOSTLIFE.COM

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THE OUTPOST: SURF FISHING WHAT TO WEAR As the term wade fishing suggests, this type of fishing requires the angler to get into the water. Therefore, depending on the temperature of the water, he/she might want to consider several options for wading togs.

had a life vest lived to tell the tale. Wear a life vest and make it back to the hotel for dinner.

Another critical piece of gear is a good pair of sunglasses. Standing in the water for hours, looking at the glare of the ocean can give you a giant headache. A good pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses can make the experience much more fun and save a fortune on ibuprofen!

OTHER TIPS FOR WADE FISHING If some night fishing is planned, it’s a good idea to try out new plugs during the daylight hours to see how they swim in the water. Fishing guides suggest keeping a wade fishing log book to remember what worked and what didn’t. Log the date, time, location, wind strength and direction, as well as the fish caught and the lures or bait used for every trip you make. Add a few notes with any additional insights that might prove helpful down the line, such as air and water temperature, prevalent baitfish in the area, and at what point during the tide the biggest fish arrived or the action reached its peak.

A GREAT FISHING DEAL Wade fishing is one of the most exciting types of saltwater fishing and it has the added advantage of not requiring a fishing boat or charter boat expense. For an economical and action-packed fishing experience, nothing beats the fun of wade fishing. Plus, the number of species of fish that swim by – from specs to sharks – is mind-boggling.

Some anglers like using standard neoprene waders for this type of fishing and, while this is perfectly acceptable, they are also hot if fishing in the spring and summer. Even if waders are too warm, it is important to wear long pants to avoid being touched by jelly fish, man-o-war or hardhead spines. Blue jeans or coveralls are fine for this protection.

For wading shoes, a pair of tennis or running shoes will work for this. There also leg-guards available at most outdoor stores and these will help the fisherman from dealing with the pain of a stingray or other aquatic critter.

While there are lots of options for wade fishing apparel and gadgets, there is one piece of gear that is absolutely critical to have – a life vest. Every year, hundreds of fishermen are swept out into the ocean by a wave that didn’t seem to be big enough to carry them. Those who

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1csuFmZ_Kyc

TO REGISTER CLICK:

www.sportsmenna.com/grand_prize.php

DESTINATION

THE FLORIDA KEYS

THE OUTPOST: DESTINATIONS - FLORIDA KEYS

THE OUTPOST VISITS THE FLORIDA KEYS By: JIM ZEGERS

There’s only one place in the United States where you can have the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. It’s a place where every square foot is infused with a sense of history and even intrigue. It’s the stuff of classic movies. As you drive down US 1 from Miami and go over the first bridge on the Overseas Highway, you’ve entered a whole diffeent world: The Florida Keys.

The reefs may be viewed from glass-bottom boats, or by snorkeling or scuba diving. Other activities available in the park include canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, swimming and wildlife viewing. A full-facility campground is also available. You will find many state parks as you cruise down US 1, but Pennekamp is the largest.

This amazing chain of islands, connected by the Overseas Highway thanks to Henry Flagler extending his Florida East Coast Railway in the early 1910’s, has been the home to literary legends, movie moguls and fishing fanatics. As an island paradise, the Florida Keys represent a fishing, snorkeling, diving, camping, boating, eating and drinking Mecca. As such, they are perfect The Outpost destination!

The next stop is Islamorada, the Sportsfishing Capital of the Keys. You will find plenty of charter boats for fishing the flats for bonefish or offshore for the big catch.

If you’d like to swim with the dolphins, stingrays or sea lions, stop at the Theater of the Sea. And make sure you stop by the world famous Holiday Isle Tiki Bar for a fruity concoction and a spectacular view of the ocean.

GO FISHING ON ISLAMORADA

WELCOME TO KEY LARGO The first island is Key Largo, best known for the John Huston’s film, of the same name, starring Humphrey Bogart, Edward G. Robinson and Lauren Bacall. On the island you will find the first undersea park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. John Pennekamp and the adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, covers approximately 178 nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove swamps. The park extends 3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean and is approximately 25 miles in length.

If this trip is starting to sound a little like a Jimmy Buffett song, there’s a good reason. When he’s not touring the world, the founder of the Parrot Head Nation spends a lot of time on these islands.

HALF WAY TO KEY WEST As you continue your journey down US 1, you’ll enjoy the view of Marathon, half way down to Key West. Marathon is the next major collection of land mass, which is a city on seven different keys. It is a major sports fishing destination, with several charter fishing boats departing from local marinas every morning to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Bountiful reefs around Marathon make it a popular diving, snorkeling, kayaking, spearfishing, and lobster tickling area.

As you leave Knight’s Key out of Marathon, you jump on the famous Seven Mile Bridge. It feels like you are in a boat instead of a car because you are surrounded by the Atlantic and the Gulf. It was one of the longest bridges in existence when built and you can still see parts of the original bridge built from 1909 to 1912, which sustained considerable damage from the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.

NEXT STOP KEY WEST Exiting the Seven Mile Bridge, you cross over several keys before “Down Island” – Key West. Those islands include Big Pine Key, Ramrod Key, Summerland Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key and Boca Chica Key, ideal for boating and camping.

Big Pine Key is the home of the National Key Deer Refuge, sorry no hunting allowed as Key Deer are endangered.

the concrete replica of a buoy at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets that claims to be the southernmost point of the contiguous 48 states.

Now to the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, Key West, the Conch Republic. The island is about 4 miles long and 2 miles wide inhabited by residents self proclaimed as Conchs. The island was made famous by President Harry Truman, Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, bootlegging and cigars.

Since it’s closer to Havana than Miami (Cuba is about 90 miles away), Key West has more of a Cuban feel than Floridian. In 1890, with a population of 18,800, it was the biggest and richest city in Florida and half of the residents were of Cuban origin.

The original Key West neighborhood is called "Old Town" and comprises the Key West Historic District. It includes the major tourist destinations of the island including Mallory Square, Duval Street, the Truman Annex and Fort Zachary Taylor. Nearby you’ll also find Ernest Hemingway’s home and

Don’t miss the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square where visitors, locals and street performers watch the sun sink into the Gulf every evening ending with applause.

After the sunset, you can cruise toward Duval Street and explore the many bars and restaurants including Hog’s Breath Saloon, Captain Tony’s Saloon and Sloppy Joes for drinks, food and music…The Outpost’s favorites.

There’s no place on the planet like the Florida Keys.

If you have a week or a lifetime, this is the perfect place to spend it. It’s one of those rare places that combines the best fishing, snorkeling, history, food and scenery all served up in laidback island ambiance. And when you get there don’t forget to try the Key Lime Pie!

Fly Fishing for the Big ONEs

lowerkeysflatsfishing.com

SALTWATER FISHING ON THE FLY If this month’s The Outpost destination to the Florida Keys (see page 40) has you thinking about billfish, bonefish or tarpon fishing and you’re “air casting” with your imaginary fly rod, you’ll want to keep reading. Saltwater fly fishing off the Florida Keys, Oregon or Washington coasts, North Carolina coast, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic or any other ocean in the world has gained enormous popularity among anglers who would normally get out the tried-and-true casting rig to fish the saltwater.

The reason for this interest and increase in popularity is self-evident. It’s the challenge of pulling in a large fish on a small fly rod and reel.

There are saltwater fly fishermen, such as guide/instructor Jake Jordan who works the Florida Keys, who has caught giant blue marlin and sailfish on 20-pound tippets. Because of the weird physics of this sport, before heading out with that fly fishing rig that you use to catch trout in Colorado or Georgia, you should get some background on the process.

While freshwater fly fishing has been around since the 1800’s, saltwater fly fishing saw its beginning in the 1950’s.

Anglers began catching game fish on the flats of the Florida Keys and as far north as Chesapeake Bay. Now fly fishermen pursue game fish species from red drum and bonefish to marlin and tuna all over the world.

Guides note that the best way for anglers who are new to saltwater fly fishing to practice techniques and catch fish is to pick the places with few challenges to fly placement. These locations include: inshore beaches, salt ponds, locations on rivers that flow into an ocean, from jetties and flats that are wadeable.

CHOOSING THE BEST FLY FISHING RIG FOR SALTWATER As with conventional fishing, when choosing the rod, line and gear for saltwater fishing, it’s important to figure out what type of fish you are likely to find or want to pursue and the conditions that these fish will be found in. Bonefish are different from marlin and they both take different flies, rods and catching techniques.

After deciding on the type of species that are to be pursued, the angler should go to a fly fishing shop, fly tackle department at the big-box sporting goods retailers, fishing show or get online to research the type of gear he/she needs.

Saltwater fly fishing guides never fail to point out the difference between conventional fishing and that using a fly rod. With the spinning or casting rod, there is a weighted lure or bait that pulls the line off the rod. However, fly fishing involves casting a weighted line that has a wind-resistant fly on its business end. It will take someone who is used to casting a conventional lure a few tosses to get use to tossing a weighted line and fly.

Knowing the likely species and their habitats will help the angler to determine the size, type and mass of the flies necessary for catching them. This will also determine the size and weight rating of the fly rod. Repeating the obvious, a fly rod that is used for inshore fishing for sea trout or flounder can be a lot lighter and have less tensile strength that one that is to be used for hauling in tarpon or tuna.

Experts such as Jake Jordan opine that the best saltwater rods will run in the 7-weight to 12 –weight class, in lengths from about 82 or 92 inches or about 10-feet. A short fighting butt (permanent or detachable) is also a good addition for dealing with heavier fish such as marlin. Because of the corroding tendency of saltwater, the rod guides should be stainless steel and the wrapping coated with epoxy rod finish.

A saltwater fly fisherman will need a line capacity of at least 200 yards with 20 to 30 pound test backing. A reel with a palming rim and a good drag system will also help the angler in catching and bringing in these larger fish.

The leaders in saltwater fly fishing tend to be shorter and heavier than those used in freshwater fishing.

This helps the angler to turn the larger flies over and the heavier tippet will be more abrasion resistant. It’s interesting to note that saltwater fish tend to be less wary that freshwater fish because they live in rougher water. Therefore, the leader doesn’t have to be as fine as that used for fooling trout in a bubbling mountain stream.

www.travelmuse.com

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KNOT ON MY FISHING LINE Because of the force exerted by a saltwater fish after being hooked, one of the biggest challenges for a fly fisherman pursuing these big boys is the strength of the knots.

While everyone has his own theory about the best knots for fly fishing, it’s advisable to take another look at those knot-tying books or website before that tough tarpon hits your line and pops the knot.

There are many online resources for the best saltwater fly fishing knots.

Hitting the search engine of your choice and looking for these knots is a good place to start: • • • • • • • •

Albright knot Arbor knot Haywire knot Blood knot (aka Barrel knot) Improved Clinch knot Kreh Loop knot Nail knot Three turns or Rhodes knot

CHECK IT OUT If you’re interested in saltwater fly fishing and have never done it, you should definitely do additional research before hitting the waves. There are many good places to get instructions and more tips on gear. One of the highly respected groups for this sport is the International Federation of Fly Fishers ™ and you can find them at: www.fedflyfishers.com.

Saltwater fly fishing is perfect for the angler who likes a challenge and enjoys being around the ocean. Plus, fooling big fish is even more fun than fooling little fish.

THE NEW OUTPOST RADIO IS LAUNCHED Radio for the Great Outdoors The Outpost Radio. At any given time on this unique station, you can hear Stevie Ray Vaughan, followed by Blackberry Smoke, followed by George Jones. While all of this is going on you can be given a chance to listen to podcasts that feature tips on hunting whitetail deer, or catching crappie in the Atchafalaya Basin or learning why blue quail would rather run than fly.

In the words of more than one recently converted Outpost Radio fanatic: “I’ve never heard anything like this station.” Exactly.

This combination of music and outdoor sports information, presented 24/7, available wherever you are, worldwide on your mobile device has never been offered. Until now.

The stories in The Outpost Magazine are about the simple joys of living an authentic life. This includes outdoor sports such as fishing, hunting, camping, hiking and biking. It involves good food and strong drink and it also includes music – from every genre – that sportsmen and sportswomen enjoy.

If you can do without the little girl pop stars and auto-tuned crap that passes for country and rock and roll these days, you might want to try The Outpost Radio. If you want to know the weather wherever you’re sitting in a duck blind, it’s here. If you’re on the way to hunt pheasant or fish for walleye and you’d like to know if anybody’s seeing any, this might be your new favorite radio station.

Unfortunately, most of the music you hear on traditional (terrestrial) radio is so sanitized, analyzed and ‘peroxized’ that the tunes and words are cotton candy for the brain. Plus, most of the outdoor sports radio programs come on the stations between 3 and 4 am. That’s a little too early for most of us.

It’s is for this reason that we joined some friends who are experts in the radio business and launched The Outpost Radio.

We’re calling it Radio for the great outdoors and that’s more than just a catchy phrase.

A typical radio station would never play the diversity of songs you’ll hear on

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The Mavericks Back in Your Arms

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtI5F3odgDo

GHOST BROTHERS OF DARKLAND COUNTY AMERICAN GOTHIC PUT TO MUSIC When you combine the collective genius of mystery/horror novelist Stephen King, musician John Mellancamp and music producer extraordinare T.Bone Burnett at least two things are likely. The story will be dark as an Appalacian night and the music will vivid as a blood-stained, Sunday shirt. These three men, who are clearly at the pinnacle of the professional lives, have created one of most intriguing stories since Homer wrote the Illiad. The title of this masterpiece is Ghost Brothers of Darkland County.

While he wrote most of the songs, this is not a John Mellancamp CD. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a much more complex endeavor.

The stealthy footprints of Stephen King and T. Bone Burnett are found throughout this epic.

The cast of singers and performers on Ghost Brothers is stunning. They include: Ryan Bingham, Neko Case, Elvis Costello, Rosanne Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Dave and Phil Alvin, Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, Taj Mahal and more. Having real-life and often feuding brothers, Dave and Phil Alvin (formerly of the rock group The Blasters) is just one of the brilliant touches.

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A bird in the hand…

is worth two in the bush.

If you know someone who enjoys getting their hands dirty while pursuing bobwhite quail, whitetail deer, wild turkeys, largemouth bass, feral hogs and every other species of wild game, why not FORWARD this issue of The Outpost to them? It’s easy. They’ll enjoy reading it. And they might even give you a hand.

www.theoutpostmagazine.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3cLui1dpqY

Even if you have to borrow against the kid’s college fund, you will want to get the Deluxe Edition of this collection.

It comes with two discs. One contains the songs as well as selected dialogue. Matthew McConaughey “speaks” for the character Drake while Ryan Bingham sings Drake’s songs. Meg Ryan speaks for Monique and Roseanne Cash sings her songs. Mellencamp sings the closing track. A 44-page booklet contains the spoken words and lyrics on the CD. The other disc is a DVD which contains a short 14 minute documentary on the project as well as the FULL script for the play - as a pdf file. The script contains 94 pages spread over a 2 page layout with white letters on a black background.

There are so many good songs on Ghost Brothers that it’s unjust to mention a few. Our favorites are: “So Goddamn Smart” performed by the Alvin brothers and Sheryl Crow, “Wrong, Wrong, Wrong About Me” performed by Elvis Costello and “Tear This Cabin Down” hit out of the park by Taj Mahal.

Ghost Brothers of Darkland County is a scary and extremely compelling ghost story set to music and performed by some of the best singers and musicians in the world. It is a classic American Gothic tale…very dark but ultimately fascinating.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg2pfv7IcjQ

JOHN FOGERTY WROTE A SONG FOR EVERYONE How many times have you found yourself singing along with John Forgety on one of his iconic Creedence Clearwater Revival tunes? If you’re like most, it’s happened many, many times! Apparently, this has also happened to a lot of “A” list musicians many of whom agreed to join him on his latest CD – Wrote a Song for Everyone.

Forgety’s latest effort, released on his 68th birthday in May, features a who’s who of country and rock music all at the top of their game. Unlike many “manufactured greatest hits/duets” CD’s, these songs sound completely new and fresh. In and of itself, this is amazing.

Most of these songs were gigantic hits and there is no more distinctive voice than John Forgety. As any musician or producer will tell you, this goes against the golden rule of the music biz – never cover a song that half the world already knows by heart. However, someone forgot to tell this to the artists whom Forgety recruited for this project.

This collection features brand new interpretations of these classic Forgety songs by the current crème de la crème of Nashville such as Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Alan Jackson and the Zac Brown Band. These songs also touched the imagination of some hot rock and rollers like Foo Fighters and Kid Rock and the perennial road warrior, Bob Seger and pop vocalist, Jennifer Hudson.

Each artist had the opportunity to choose the Forgety tune that they wanted to record and (as one would expect) the choices are fascinating. One of the best cuts in the collection is the duet between Forgety and Keith Urban: “Almost Saturday Night”. This tune, originally recorded by Forgety during his solo years, sounds like a Keith Urban song – instead of a rehash of a Forgety song. Such is also the case on the first cut of the CD – “Fortunate Son” with Foo Fighters and a more countrified version of “Bad Moon Rising” featuring the Zac Brown Band.

John Forgety also gives a nod to the next generation of the musical family. He and sons Shane and Tyler make a run at the symbolically appropriate CCR tune “Lodi.” If the music and respect shown by these amazing singers for John Forgety are any indication, I think we’re all happy that John did not get stuck in Lodi…again.

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HAVE YOU MISSED ANY ISSUES OF

ISSUE II

ISSUE XI

THE

ISSUE III

UTPOST

SEEING IS BELIEVING

WADE FISHING THE SURF

SUNGLASSES REVIEW

READING STREAMS

THE NEW LAKE EFFECT ON FISHING

HOW TO TRICK TOMS TALKING TURKEY RECIPES TAXIDERMY

ALL HAIL KING MACKEREL

WOMEN WITH WEAPONS

HUNTING AXIS DEER • CATCHING CRAPPIE • CATFISH RECIPES • BETTER BANK FISHING

WILLIE NELSON HEROES

HOW TO KEEP A HUNT ING DO G IN SHAP E IN TH E OFFSEA SON

PLUS: FACEBOOK FLASHBACK & BLACKBERRY SMOKE

They’re all waiting for you at our website WWW.THEOUTPOSTLIFE.COM GO AHEAD. CAST A LINE AND REEL THEM IN!!!

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HOW TO KEEP COOL AND MAINTAIN BOW HUNTING SKILLS IN THE SUMMER

www.floridabowfishing.com

BOWFISHING If you enjoy the challenge of hunting with a bow and the thrill of pursuing marine life, bowfishing was invented for you! Many bowhunters think they have only targets to shoot during the offseason, however this is not true. Bowfishing fills that void nicely. It’s an excellent way to keep your archer’s eye sharp and shooting muscles toned for big game hunts to come later in the year.

During July, August and September when temperatures soar, there’s no better place to be than armpit-deep in cooling water. Plus, bowfishing can also serve as a community service, thinning trash fish that can hinder reproduction of more valuable game fish.

There is a large population of these junk fish with carp being the mainstay. Bowhunters also pursue various suckers, gar, buffalo, shad or legal ocean-going fish. The most productive shooting is typically during the late spring or early summer carp spawn, though any time of year can provide shooting. Carp will live darn near anywhere, from polluted storm drains to small runoff ponds, muddy irrigation ditches to crystalline trout rivers to ocean-like reservoirs.

FIRST THINGS FIRST Getting started is easy. First, find a place with carp or other non-game fish where it’s legal to shoot.

When in doubt, ask the landowner or someone who’s in charge. Getting a game-violation ticket over a slimy carp simply isn’t worth it.

Next you’ll need some ratty sneakers and cut-offs, polarized sunglasses, a wide-brim hat and waterproof sunscreen. There’s no use in ruining good clothes, as you’re going to get dirty in this business.

The polarized sunglasses will help cut surface glare and improve the view of submerged targets. Wear some sunblock. Water glare and all-day sun guarantee painful sunburns for the unprepared.

THE BEST BOW AND REEL You could use the hunting bow you already own for this, but generally, an older bow that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy is best. Traditional re-curve bows and longbows best accommodate the quick, “from-the-hip” shooting normally presented. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy or powerful -- a cheap 45- to 50-pound pawn-shop or eBay bow is fine.

You’ll also need a bowfishing reel equipped with stout cord, heavyweight arrow, and barbed point. Reels allow you to shoot into deeper water and easily retrieve arrows for another shot. Bowfishing arrows are much heavier than hunting arrows and are typically made of solid fiberglass to penetrate deep water and the scales and bones of a fish.

Reels come in a wide variety of styles and models, from basic drums to sophisticated, crank-handle contraptions. The basic, hand-wound drum reel screws into standard stabilizer riser mounts or tapes into place via anchoring feet. These are fine for shallow water and when shots are not overly long. They’re also most economical. Look to Saunders, Cajun and Bohning Archery and Eastman Outfitters for affordable options.

Close-faced spinning reels attached to reel seats – sometimes with short rods included -- screw into riser stabilizer mounts to make follow-up shots faster, and allow you to “play” your prize after a hit. Just remember to press the release (cast) button before each shot! Look to Eastman Outfitters, Muzzy Products and Cajun Archery for prime examples.

The safest, most hassle-free bowfishing reel is AMS Bowfishing’s Retriever Reel. Lever-activated rollers neatly stack line into a bottle, feeding friction free during the shot – and with no buttons to push between shots. They mount via standard sight taps on most bow risers (strap-on mounts are available through AMS for traditional bows with no taps). AMS, Muzzy and Bohning are your sources. No matter reel choice, many are offered in kit form, with everything you’ll need to get started.

ARROWS FOR FISHING Solid fiberglass fish arrows are standard and abundantly available. They’re inexpensive and so durable that they literally last forever. They generally come in bright colors, making it easy to adjust fire after a miss.

Bohning makes bright yellow, orange, and white. Cajun, AMS and Muzzy offer white shafts (Muzzy also blue), Eastman Outfitters “high-viz” chartreuse, InnerLoc bright orange and glow-in-the-dark.

Barbed fish points come in a wide variety of styles and price points. Budget-priced heads can prove trickier to remove from fish, while also normally less durable.

If you only bowfish occasionally, or in waters with soft bottoms, they’re highly viable. Here you’re looking at designs such as Bohning’s River Fish Point; Eastman Outfitters’ Eagle Fish Point; Cajun’s Lil’ Stinger, Mohawk, and Wee Stinger; and AMS Shure-Shot Points.

If you do enough shooting that removing fish becomes tedious, or if shooting in punishing areas with copious rock or stumps, a sturdier point is in order.

These hold instantly-reversible barbs and more rugged construction. Cajun’s time-proven Sting-A-Ree; Eastman Outfitters’ Osprey Fish Point; InnerLoc’s Grapple 2 and 3 Points; Muzzy’s Quick Release Gar or Carp, Stingray or Shure Shot points; and Bohning’s RuffNeck all withstand prolonged abuse and make getting rid of shish-kabobbed fish easy.

http://youtu.be/mXDFd7EK0B8

To avoid potential tangles that can mean a broken line and a lost arrow – or worse, a potentially dangerous bounce-back that results in injury to the shooter or companions -- AMS’ Safety Slide system is worth every penny. At least one bowfisherman has been killed by a bounce-back. The slide system carries retrieval line in front of the riser and safely out of cables and accessories while drawing and shooting, zipping back to facilitate straight-line flight upon release. Kits are sold

by AMS, Bohning, Muzzy, and Cajun Archery.

READY, AIM… Now you’re ready. All you’ll have to remember is to aim low when that first fish ghosts into view. This is due to the prism effect created by water, making objects appear higher than they actually are.

How far under the fish you aim depends on water depth and shot angle and there’s no other way to learn than to get out there and shoot some fish. That’s what all the fun’s about; getting outside on a hot spring or summer’s day, stalking fish in cooling water, sometimes shooting until it hurts, collecting a few prizes along the way. I can think of few things I would rather do during the dog-days of summer.

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SMARTBAITS ARE GAME CHANGERS AND COLOR CHANGERS If you think your smartphone has changed your life, wait ‘til you see what Smartbait ™ lures do for your fishing. These water temperature activated color-changing lures are generating a lot of excitement among both professional and amateur anglers. And they’re doing this for the best reason: they catch fish.

These new lures were introduced at the Bassmaster Classic and the pros who used them called the technology “industry changing.” The owner of the company that makes them, Michael Dingman said, “Smartbaits’ unique chemistry imitates wounded, bleeding prey fish, changing color at different water temperatures and depths. Predator fish like large bass home in on those colors of injured, bleeding fish and attack.”

Whether it’s in shallow or deep water, a Smartbait lure quickly changes color based on its depth and surrounding temperature. This makes the same lure exhibit a different appearance each time a cast is made.

From all reports, this seems to drive predator fish nuts and they aggressively attack the bait.

There is a Variety of Smartbaits The company manufacturing Smartbaits is introducing a large variety of hard baits in jerk, crank and vibrating styles. The company is also making a group of worms, grub and swimming baits in this color-changing material. Anglers can also get this new technology in reusable, glow-in-the-dark baits which last for about 8 hours.

Realizing the potential for sales of this cool technology among younger anglers, Smartbaits has a complete line of these lures for kids.

Many fishing industry veterans have noted that this type of innovation is a good way to get kids excited about outdoor activities such as fishing. There’s nothing like non-stop action and constantly pulling fish out of the water to get a youngster hooked on fishing!

More info on Smartbaits can be found at the company’s website www.Smartbaits.com

NORTH AMERICAN DUCK NUMBERS ARE RELEASED

In mid-July, the US Fish and Wildlife Service released its report on 2013 Trends in Duck Breeding Populations. This is based on surveys conducted in May and early June. In the report, total populations were estimated at 45.6 million breeding ducks in the surveyed area. This estimate represents a 6 percent decrease from last year's estimate of 48.6 million birds, and is 33 percent above the 1955-2012 long-term average.

These numbers received mixed reviews by the hunting and conservation communities. On one hand, the numbers of some species decreased and this is a reason for some concern. However, on the other hand, the long-term average for duck populations is substantially higher.

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THE OUTPOST: DUCK NUMBERS WHAT FACTORS AFFECTS DUCK POPULATIONS? The main determining factor for duck breeding success is wetland and upland habitat conditions in the key breeding landscapes of the prairies and the boreal forest. Conditions observed across the U.S. and Canadian survey areas during the 2013 Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey were improved or similar to last year in many areas due to average to above average annual precipitation, particularly in the Midwestern U.S. Southeastern Canada, south-central Alberta along the Montana border, the northeast U.S. and portions of Montana and the Dakotas did not receive as much rainfall.

Total pond counts for the United States and Canada combined showed 6.9 million ponds, a 24-percent increase from last year's estimate and 35-percent above the long-term average.

an effect on how many birds hunters see this fall.

Other areas have seen excessive moisture, which could affect food supplies for migrating birds. And, as always, weather patterns can also have a huge impact on local hunting conditions and the timing of the migration."

WHICH SPECIES GAINED AND WHICH DECLINED?

Of the 10 species surveyed, 7 were similar to last year’s estimates, including mallard, Scaup and blue-winged teal were significantly below last year's estimates and American wigeon were 23 percent above last year. Mallards, similar in number to 2012, are 36 percent above the long-term average. Two species – northern pintail and scaup (lesser and greater combined) remained below their long-term average and North American Waterfowl Management Plan goals.

The chief scientist of the preeminent conservation and hunting group, Ducks Unlimited, had this to say about the reasons for these numbers. "This spring saw abundant moisture in much of the heart of North America's most important duck breeding areas," said Dale Humburg. "That bodes well for duck breeding success this summer and hopefully, for hunting this fall. But we remain concerned with continuing loss of nesting habitat in these areas. Because ducks need both water and upland habitats to successfully raise their young, the ongoing loss of grasslands and wetlands across the Prairie Pothole Region will continue to impact the number of ducks in the fall flight.”

He continued, "This year we also experienced very late winter conditions across much of the United States and Canada. These conditions delayed the arrival of some ducks on their traditional breeding grounds and may have impacted breeding and nesting success."

"Even with abundant moisture on the prairies and good breeding success this year, the weather and habitat conditions the birds encounter on their fall migrations can impact local hunting success. Many areas along traditional migration routes are experiencing significant drought, and this will likely have

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WHAT DOES THIS SURVEY MEAN TO HUNTERS? These spring surveys provide the scientific basis for many duck management programs across North America, including hunting season dates and bag limits. After meeting in late July, the four flyway councils and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regulations Committee will recommend season structure and bag limits for 2013-14. Individual states will then make their specific selections within a federal framework of season length, bag limit and dates. Hunters should check the rules in their states for final dates.

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AN EASY WAY TO GET THE TICKS OFF Men and women who love to hunt, fish and spend every waking hour outdoors are susceptible to insect bites that are not only irritating but deadly. It can start with pain, itching, redness and swelling in the area of the skin, and in more pronounced cases, it can include fever, headache, fatigue, and/or a skin rash. The culprit is a tick bite, and if left untreated, it can lead to Lyme disease, which can spread to the joints, heart and nervous system.

Lauren Allen, writing for radiomd.com, notes, “you can have a tick (or three) burrowed in your skin without even feeling a thing." These evil critters are most prevalent during the months of April through September.

However, she also points out that removing ticks with tweezers, which often did not remove the tick and was impossible to use for some parts of the body, is now a swab of cotton balls away. Here’s how you get these dangerous blood suckers off your skin.

• Apply a dime sized dollop of dish or hand soap onto a damp paper towel, tissue, or cotton ball.

• Cover the tick with the soap-saturated tissue or cotton ball, and hold in place for a few seconds (15-20).

• The tick will come out all on its own and will be stuck on the towel or cotton ball when you lift it away.

It’s a good idea to look for tick bites under arms, behind ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between legs, around the waist and through hair.

Also make sure to check any gear that was taken along, including clothing.

One suggestion is to put clothes worn on that outdoor adventure in the dryer on high heat for at least an hour. This will roast any ticks who hitched a ride.

Now that you’ve got a strategy for getting ticks off your skin and clothes, here’s some advice from Brad Paisley and checking for the little devils! www.youtube.com/ watch?v=3tiPndMqxLQ

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THE FUNERAL As a guitarist, I play many gigs. Recently I was asked by a funeral director to play at a graveside service for a homeless man. He had no family or friends, so the service was to be at a pauper’s cemetery in the back country. As I was not familiar with the backwoods, I got lost.

I finally arrived an hour late and saw the funeral guy had evidently gone and the hearse was nowhere in sight. There were only the diggers and crew left and they were eating lunch.

I felt badly and apologized to the men for being late. I went to the side of the grave and looked down and the vault lid was already in place. I didn’t know what else to do, so I started to play.

The workers put down their lunches and began to gather around. I played out my heart and soul for this man with no family and friends. I played like I’ve never played before for this homeless man.

And as I played ‘Amazing Grace,’ the workers began to weep. They wept, I wept, we all wept together. When I finished I packed up my guitar and started for my car. Though my head hung low, my heart was full.

As I opened the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say, “I never seen nothin’ like that before and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.”

Apparently, I’m still lost…

Do you have a funny hunting or fishing picture? • Do you have a joke that everyone should hear?

Email them to: art@theoutpostmagazine.com