Whitetail Deer Hunting For Beginners

by Razvan Jr

Whitetail deer hunting is one of the most popular hunting genres in the entire world with more and more enthusiasts every year. For a first time whitetail deer hunter it can be a rather difficult thing to do that is why a few tips and tricks about this type of activity are needed in order to start out with decent results.

Experienced hunters recommend checking the hunting equipment when going into the stand, not later when a buck will eventually walk out. Check if your scope is clear, the shells in the chamber or if you use a bow, check if your bow will draw back properly. There are many issues to take into consideration that is why we strongly advise to prepare well ahead.

If you plan on hunting whitetail deer in a food plot or a large field it is recommended to do it during the late hours of the day. Remember that deer like heavy cover so it is advisable to try and clear a path through the cover that you consider these animals might be using. The whitetail deer usually prefers using the easiest routes possible. Once you have set up a path, hunt over the built path in a hunting tree stand.

If using deer calls isn’t your cup of tea ( mainly because you are afraid of scaring these animals ), it is advisable to use it only after you see a deer that you are not willing to shoot. Once you have done so, you will notice that it doesn’t scare them and you will observe their reactions. Be sure to use the most suitable calls, otherwise the animals will get suspicious.

The best advice possible is to hunt whenever you have the possibility. Experience is crucial, only by going out there in the wilderness you will learn more about their habitat, feeding habits and other characteristics that you will eventually use in your advantage. We strongly suggest that you follow our advice and the next time you have the possibility to hunt, don’t hesitate, you know what they say: practice makes perfect and this is statement is entirely applicable for hunting not only whitetail deer but other animals as well.

When you are about to hunt in a new area, it is advisable to hunt at a new stand each day for a short period of time as this is the most efficient way to learn about the deer movement routes. If you spot a deer and shoot it and afterwards you jump it up a very short distance from the position you have made the shot, it is advisable to stand back and give it time to take its last breath, if you shot it during the late hours of the day it is recommended to wait overnight.

If you plan on hunting whitetail deer with a bow, experienced hunters recommend doing it from a tree stand because it is way more efficient in comparison with hunting from ground level. Another advice, use only one pin because it is easier to aim high or low on the whitetail deer than attempt to remember to use a specific one when the large one walks out.

We hope that our suggestions will come in hand and on your first attempts on hunting these animals you will get at least decent results. Remember; practice every time you have the chance.



Razvan Marian Jr. is a whitetail deer hunting enthusiast and has plenty of years of experience in the field. He is now sharing his whitetail deer hunting tips with others at www.whitetaildeerhuntinginfo.com.

Article Source: http://www.upublish.info

Coyote hunting, a practice like no other

by Razvan Jr

Thought to be one of the hunting branches with the most success and popularity in North America, coyote hunting is quickly and surely putting older and more famed types of hunting into the shadow. A possible explanation would be our continuous search to find new and exciting activities and leave behind or completely forget the ones that we used to entertain ourselves with. Recent studies reveal that hunters are drown to hunting these creatures because of the sheer complexity of the entire hunting process, as well as the oasis of originality it is considered to be amongst hunting genres.

If you are new to this sport then you aren’t probably very familiar with what it requires and the details that make it so special. First of all, like any hunting branch, coyote hunting involves gathering as much information as possible about these creatures. Understanding their habits, their personality and the way they are most likely to react to certain factors is the key to a successful and low-risk hunting experience. Coyotes have excellent smell, vision and hearing which enable them to find food quickly and to stay away from danger. Moreover, they are well-known for their evasiveness, which can help them get closer to a target without being seen or heard, and even to approach suburban areas unnoticed. Knowing these basics is vital to your hunting success and even to your safety and should, under no circumstance, be ignored.

After you have been familiarized to coyotes and their way of life, you need to know everything about the hunting itself, its components, their order and the way each of them can mean either success or failure on the hunting field. The actual hunting process consists of a number of important elements which have proven to be crucial factors for every hunt. Among these, one of the most important is preparation, which amasses all the equipment required for hunting coyote: firearms, loads, optics, etc, as well as other spying gadgets. Another important element of coyote hunting is camouflage or concealment, which can make the difference between a fruitful and a disappointing hunting session. But perhaps the most important component of the whole process is scouting, because you can’t call a coyote if there isn’t one there to be called, can you? Last but certainly not least, the calling itself, which has to be learnt very well, as well as knowing when to use a distress of a certain kind.

The last point of discussion the beginner hunter must remember is to have as much field practice as possible, grabbing every occasion he meets to go on a hunt. It is very common for a learner to get disappointed at first and frankly quite normal, but this is due to the lack of experience in taking every opportunity you have at a coyote. Keep in mind that even the most skilled and experienced hunters miss the target once in a while, so try not to dwell on that for long. Perseverance is a key rule when fresh to coyote hunting, as skill and self confidence can only come through repeated attempts and often, letdowns.

All in all, coyote hunting is a thrilling and engaging activity but it would be an irrationally risky idea to go on the field without taking into consideration the above. Therefore, treat every aspect discussed in the current article seriously and you will have only reasons to be happy and rewarded afterwards.



Razvan Marian Jr. is a coyote hunting enthusiast and has plenty of years of experience in the field of coyote hunts. He is now sharing his coyote hunting tips with others at http://www.coyotehuntinginfo.com .

Article Source: http://www.upublish.info

The Beginners Guide to Successful Deer Hunting

by Kevin McCarthy

A lot of experienced hunters know a lot of the tricks to track a deer, if however you are new to the sport then this guide will lead you down the right track. So without further ado let's hunt some deer.

• Start early. You'll notice that the hunting seasons are limited by dates but also by daylight hours. Do not fire your gun before daybreak of after dusk to ensure the total safety of all of your colleagues. However, one of the best deer hunting tips you can follow is to start early. You should be in your deer stand or hunting blind before sunrise. Getting there that early will diminish the possibility of being noticed by the deer and allow you to be in place when the first specimens begin coming out for a drink and a bite to eat as the sun rises.

• Stay late. Those who have gathered knowledge and give out deer hunting tips frequently will tell you that the best times to bag a deer are sunrise and sunset. The lighting at these times of the day can actually confuse the sight of the deer, and they will be out in greater numbers because, aside from filling their stomachs at these times as a rule, they will be less likely to see you.

• Avoid scents. Do not wear perfume, cologne, after shave, or even strongly scented deodorant. Keep unnatural smells to a minimum so that you disrupt the highly sensitive sense of smell that a deer has as little as possible. Be aware of the scent you are giving off, the smell of a human is a real deterrent to deer so try to blend in with the countryside. If you think that you will catch a deer after you have spent an hour in the bath and splashed on your most expensive cologne then think again, you can do that after your hunt.

Being silent will increase your chances of a deer sighting considerably. While you are out there to have fun with your friends, deer also have a keen sense of hearing and anything above a whisper (and even a whisper if it is a particularly quiet day) can be heard by many cautious deer. This is the most important tip among deer hunting tips, as even the slightest sound as you are lining up for a shot can lose that prized buck for you. While there are more detailed tips available to make sure you get the most out of your trip, these deer hunting tips are the basics and will get you started down the road to success and enjoyment as a deer hunter.



Now that you have all the ammo to catch your first deer check out =>www.cleverhunting.com for even more useful information, articles, tips and tricks. Don't forget to get your free report on planning your perfect hunting trip.

Article Source: http://www.upublish.info

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Hunting But Never Asked

by Alexander Marlin..

Stop dreaming of hunting, knowing what to do once your in the field is what will help you make your first kill.

Any successful hunter knows that the basic filed dressing should be part of their plan. You will have a big jump on the rest if you include a hunt kit that is equip with the tools needed for your first kill.

One thing you should do first is to pack a good hunting knife. Make sure to bring along a knife your accustomed of, it can be a folding blade or fixed blade knife. you will need your stone to sharpen it. With any kill, you might need to skin the animal or make incisions for field dressing.

Cool your kill - in warm weather, it's exceptionally important that you get the carcass cooled as quickly as possible. Traditional field dressing is the best option, but if you've got access to a one-ton packed with ice, more power to you. Do bear in mind that meat spoils from the inside as well.

Avoid contamination - when dressing your carcass, take care not to puncture the innards as the contents of the animal's digestive tract can ruin all your hard work. Many hunters recommend tying off the rectum before you remove it to avoid accidental spills.

A great hunter pays attention to what they are aiming at and what lies behind of their target. You can do great damage and bodily harm if a bullet or arrow misses the target your aiming at and harms someone in another field. Make sure your always protecting the bystanders and other hunters.

When packing your bags, make sure you have adequate food and water for yourself and your dog. During the early summer days, you will have to make sure hydration for you and your dog is taken care of.

Hunting dogs are a huge investment - the pedigree and initial training alone can be staggering costs for the average person to absorb. But we suck it up, sign the checks and smile, knowing that our investment in Pooch will be well worth it in the long run.

Depending on the time of the year you choose to go hunting. Always remember to practice your hunt skills way ahead of time. Take a long a notepad to keep track of your successes and your failures.

Using scents to attract prey your stalking is a great tool that the top hunters use. But, you can also use scents to hide yourself when your hunting.



Before you start planning for your hunting adventure, you must understand which hunting supplies to pack and which not to pack.



Article Source: http://www.upublish.info

Hunting Missouri with a Local Guide

by Jon Eaton

If you are looking for quality hunting trips, then Missouri is a great place to go to scratch your itch and enjoy a few days in nature. You will love the natural beauty of the state of Missouri, and the hunting there is prime if you are looking for ducks, geese, or other waterfowl hunts. To make your hunting trip even more productive, though, the best way to go is to hire a local Missouri hunting guide to help you find the best locations and the best hunting in the state.

While it is possible to find a great site to hunt all on your own, the best sites are known to the local guides who are more than happy to share them with their clients who are looking for some real enjoyment of their hunting trips. There are many quality guides in the state of Missouri, and obtaining their services for your next hunting trip is as easy as letting them know what you are interested in, and setting a price.

Your Missouri hunting guide will be able to take you to some of the best locations for a really quality hunting trip. They know what you will need and what kind of atmosphere hunters require because they are used to guiding, and will not distract or otherwise trouble you while you are sporting. You will get an incredible experience, and one that you could not have gotten without the aid of an experienced guide.

Local Missouri hunting guides and outfitters know the land because they live there. Many of them have spent years hunting their state, and know the best places to take hunters looking for just about any kind of hunting experience. Their own hunting abilities help them to relate to you, and you will find that a hunting guide is the kind of person that you can really get along with, and their knowledge of the land is second to none.

A Missouri hunting guide is a great hire for any kind of hunting outing, whether it is your first time hunting waterfowl or whether you are terrifically experienced and just need to know where to go for the best experience in the state. You certainly won’t be let down as your guide takes you to the best locations and helps you make this hunting trip one that you will never forget. For the best quality hunting trip you can have, a local guide is your best answer.



About author:
A local Missouri based waterfowl guide and outfitting service including information and resources relating to www.showmesnowgeese.com.

Article Source: http://www.upublish.info

Choosing the Best Sleeping Bag for You

There are a lot of sleeping bags that are readily available for purchase on stores and even online. They vary in size, shape and price. Though sometimes you are not sure of which bag suits you the best. There may be times that you think the what that you found may be right for you but after purchasing and inspecting it really well, you then conclude that it is not really for you. Think carefully and weigh in options before buying one.

So, how do you choose that bag which is right for you? Simple, write down what you want it to have. Do you like it oversized and Rectangular in shape? Just put down everything you want and then go to a store or search online for it that has most or everything that you have written.

For example, if you want a bag that enables absorption of heat, then write it down. Such is used when you are camping in a bit cold and chilly location. It helps to have a warm sleeping place so that you will be comfortable and not feeling cold.

There are sleeping bags that have mosquito netting to prevent mosquitoes or other flying insects from biting you. This feature helps in avoiding any unwanted diseases brought about by creepy-crawlies in your camping site.

Mummy sleeping bags are a bit popular among campers because they can easily zip themselves off inside their sleeping bags and keep themselves safe and warm. Just make sure that the zippers are working perfectly so that you can get in and out easily without worrying if the zipper might get stuck along the way.

If you are camping in a place a big humid and not that cold, you might want to consider a silk sleep sack. It is very light and durable too. It is not thick so it makes it easier to carry around and it is lighter compared to the other sleeping bags.

Oversized sleeping bags are suitable for those who want more room to move in and to those who are taller than the average person. Even though it may be a bit heavier than a regular bag, it still has the same function as others have.

So there, you are now given a lot of options to choose from as to which bag you think is best for you. Stick to your preferences and you will find what you are looking for in no time. It also helps to ask your friends or consult a seasoned camper to help you even more in choosing your future sleeping bag. It does not hurt if you invest in it as long as you are sure that you will be able to use it and are happy with it. Also, try to weigh the bag first and decide if you will be able to carry it or not. The lighter, the better but of course it all comes down to what you really want. It is yours anyway.

Rachel Nunez is ready to answer your questions about camping gear. For more tips and information about sleeping bags, check out http://www.campinggearpro.com.

Ensuring You Have all the Camping Supplies that You Need

Before leaving for camp, it is best to check all the supplies that are needed when going on a camping trip. Try to make a checklist of the stuff that you will need so that your trip will be a success. Try to think of all the possible things that you will need in the trip and then cross them out one-by-one as soon as you have double checked if it is in your camping things.

Obviously you will not be sleeping in your house so a camping tent would serve as your home during the trip. Make sure that the tent is large enough to fit you and whoever is going with you. Sleeping materials such as blankets, sleeping bags and pillows are also needed so that you will be sleeping comfortably. A hammock can also be used as a sleeping place just in case you don't have any sleeping bag. These are among the most important stuff needed.

Radios, walkie-talkies and a compass are also needed in case you get separated from your companions. Just make sure that these means are working perfectly before setting out. Lanterns, lighters and light sticks should also be brought to ensure light of your camping site.

Other supplies such as axes, knives and saws can also be brought in case you need to cut down or clear something on the way. Camping furniture like chairs and tables can also be brought to camp as long as the location is spacious and if you can carry all these things with you.

Clothes such as t-shirts, pants or jeans and even a jacket is highly recommended to bring if you plan to camp for several days. You are never too sure of the weather and climate of the camping site you are settling in. So it is best to pack clothes for all seasons. Better be safe than sorry right?

In addition, because you are camping out, food is also a necessity. Coolers, to ensure freshness of the food; aluminum foils, to make heating and cooking food easier and even packing the food nice and tight to make sure that the food will not spill during the trip.

Another most important camping supply that you will need is a heavy duty backpack. Of course, without a backpack, you cannot possibly carry and bring all the aforementioned stuff by your bare hands. Just make sure that the backpack you are to use can carry a lot of weight and would fit snuggly onto your shoulders. It also helps to keep the things inside the backpack balanced so that you will not have any muscle strain.

Double checking on your stuff enables you and your companions to have the things that you need. This ensures that you will not forget anything and that you are prepared for anything that may happen during your camping trip. Being prepared and having all things in place will help you have a worry-free trip and that you will not panic in case you forgot something.

Rachel Nunez is ready to answer your questions about camping gear. For more tips and information about camping supplies, check out http://www.summitcampinggear.com.

The Rules Of Safety Shooting

Accidents happen, even when enjoying a supposedly harmless hobby. Hunting, for one, can be the most fun; yet can pose risks with a tiny careless act.

It is therefore a must to know just how to be safe when shooting. Understanding fully the leisure in hunting entails knowledge in handling the devices that come with the hobby.

The most basic rule when picking up a firearm is to check if it is loaded. The magazine and the chamber should be empty. For new owners, be sure to read and understand fully the instructions on the firearm's manual before these firearms or bows are handled.

Whether to be used or in its idle state, the muzzle must at all times be pointed to a direction that is safe and if possible, empty. The muzzle's direction must be controlled all the time, never resting on your toe or foot. A significant point is for the trigger guard not to be touched by your finger until that very instant that you are aiming and are ready to fire. Never point a bow or a firearm at what you do not intend to shoot. The safety feature of the equipment should always be locked until the instant that the shooter will fire. That safety, however, should not substitute the safe ways to firearm handling.

When not in use, firearms must always be unloaded. Make sure to also unstring unused conventional bows. Trigger guards and locks should be turned on when the firearm is not being used. Furthermore, these ammunitions should be stored in dry and cool places.

Handle the equipment with utmost care; never even horseplay with these firearms. Learn how to properly carry guns and make sure that a cleaning kit comes in handy.

Handling a gun or any hunting device does not provide room for the clumsy and the careless. Never compromise safety with excitement in any way when it comes to the hunting hobby. Learn to control your emotions; otherwise you may accidentally do anything carelessly and cause harm in the process.

Be completely sure of the identity of your target, what and where it is, before pulling the trigger. Learning how to properly identify animals for the game is a top priority. Never even raise your scope to find your target, which should be in good light and is fully visible. This is where binoculars should be used for you to know what is in front of what you target to shoot, or what is beside and behind it for that matter. Also, remember that ricochets are dangerous, so never shoot at hard or flat surfaces like rocks, water or steel.

Still for your safety, wear eye and hearing protection at all times. Drinking alcohol before or during your handling of ammunitions is a big no-no. Professional hunting teams perform certain checks on their participants to ensure that everyone is in top shape for their take on the sports.

According to hunting specialists, knowing these tips may prove helpful, but learning doesn't end with knowing the rules. Only by understanding the essence of safety in this pastime can an enthusiast ensure a fully enjoyable and harmless shooting and hunting sports!

James Brown writes about http://www.huntinggearshop.com

Hunting Gear to Keep You Hunting Like a Pro

Hunting gear can consist of many different items, from clothing to outdoor stands. There are categories of hunting gear for every season of the year. Some of the hunting gear can be used for all seasons and for all types of hunting, whether it's fowls or deer. The right hunting gear can make all the difference in the world to your successful hunting excursion.

This article will concentrate on the hunting gear you will need to wear and bring with you when you go on a hunting adventure.

Hunting Gear That Will Keep You Warm -

Depending on how long your trip will be, a weekend or a week, you should bring enough camouflage shirts, sweatshirts and pants to last at least a few days. The same goes with regular pants, say blue jeans or cotton pants that will withstand most types of weather. A pair of fleece or wool pants would be a good idea to pack in case of really cold weather. A heavy fleece or wool coat for the same reason is also a good idea, even on the sunniest days. The wind chill and cold weather can be deceiving. Insulated gloves, ones where the fingers pop out for using your crossbow or rifle work best and keep your hands and fingers warmest on the cold days. Hats that cover your ears are a great item to have, rather than a camouflage baseball cap. These hats have ear flaps that come down over your ears to keep them warm and are usually made of fur inside. They come in a variety of colors: green and brown or black and sometimes bright orange.

Hunting Gear for Your Feet -

You will need one or two pairs of insulated/waterproof boots, which you should break in before your trip. Two pairs are suggested because if one is wet, or gets wet inside, you will have a backup. Add one pair of tennis shoes for wearing around the camp site to be comfortable in while you are not out hunting. Insulated socks are a must have, and waterproof socks are a great thing to have if you can afford them. They are sold in many catalogs and military or hunting websites.

Little Things for Safety -

Now that we have your body covered, there are a few items you need to bring along to make the camping experience just like the comforts of home. You will want to pack waterproof matches or a cigarette lighter for the fire; a first aid kit is always a must when camping or hunting. You will need a sleeping bag, a pillow, and a tent to keep you out of the elements. You might want to throw in an extra blanket for warmth at night or to lie around the fire in the evenings.

Hunting Gear Necessities -

You will need a compass, a canteen or a water bottle, a hunting knife and a regular knife for cooking. You will also need cooking supplies which would be a pot and pan, a coffee pot, and something to turn the food with, such as a spatula and spices. Do not forget your spoon and fork to eat with. The knife will come in handy when cutting down small branches and twigs for firewood. Some people may prefer a camping stove and then you would only need the propane to fill the tank and it works just like a regular stove you have in your kitchen. Either way, you will need something to cook on and something to cook in.

Hunting Gear -

There are a few other hunting gear items you may need when going on your hunting trip. One is a backpack or a pack around your waist to carry your items out into the field, such as the first aid kit, your knife, extra socks, hat, gloves, and a bird call if you are hunting fowl. Anther item would be a pistol or small hand gun if you are using one for protection against dangerous animals who could charge at you and a rifle would not work in that type of situation.

Snacks are another good thing to carry with you in your backpack because it will be a long day waiting for the animal to cross your path or if you are walking towards the animals, you will become hungry and stopping to eat is not a good idea because of the smell. Something like granola bars are easy to carry with you and easy to handle while walking.

If you are taking your hunting dog, you will need to pack for him or her as well. Make sure they have a kennel that is well ventilated and have plenty of water at all times. You can carry their leash in your backpack or a pack around your waist if the dog is trained to hunt without a leash. Dog treats are another good idea.

William "Cole" Doggett is the owner and operator of the finest hunting gear website on the Internet today carrying everything you need for a perfect hunt at the best prices. Stop by and check out http://www.HuntingGearSupplies.com for all your Hunting Gear needs.

Hunting Supplies That You Absolutely Must Have

Hunting supplies are the things you need to bring with you on a hunting trip. They are the items you need to make the trip as comfortable as possible and help you have a more successful trip.

Large Hunting Supplies -

Some of the larger hunting supplies would be something like a blind, which is like a tent, only completely dressed in camouflage. They call it a blind because the deer or other game you are hunting cannot see you in it. Some blinds pop up and fold away easily, while others need some assembly. There are simple blinds that can hide you and all your hunting supplies, or more complicated ones that have thick netting over them that cover a wider area so you can walk around more like an indoor campground. Blinds are a must have to hide from your prey and keep your hunting supplies hidden if you venture off to a tree stand or another part of the forest.

Decoy Hunting Supplies -

Decoys are another large hunting supply you may want to take with you on your hunting trip. There are deer and elk decoys, such as the elk Montana decoy which is a flat cutout of the elk, yet looks very natural and is life sized. It has helped bring the elk back to the south and in many studies, has proved to hold the stare of elk bulls so you can get the shot of a lifetime without being noticed.

Other decoys are large Whitetail Doe, Cow elk rump (which is just the back end of the elk and it looks as if it is grazing), Tom turkeys, thief Jake turkeys, Hot Hen turkey, the Call Girl Hen turkey (which is an inflatable decoy), the breeding Tom (which his feathers are in the mating stance) and the bad act strutting Tom turkey, all of which are life-sized and life-like. Each of these decoys have been field tested and have been carved and spray painted from an actual live animal to give your decoy more life-like features.

Tree Stand Hunting Supplies -

Another large item to bring on your hunting trip would be a tree stand, which you sit in a tree for long periods of time, waiting for a deer or whatever it is you are hunting to pass you for optimal shooting. There is the simple tree stand, one called the baby gorilla which is simply a seat with a strap to go around the tree and a web or messed area for your feet to rest on. You must hold very still so your prey cannot detect you or your movements. Even though you are high above the ground, some animals, deer especially, have great hearing.

Large Tree Stand -

There is also a Kong sized tree stand where you sit more comfortably with a padded backing and a wider webbing for your feet. It straps around the tree just as the baby gorilla stand does, but it has more room overall.

Various Tree Stands -

Other tree stands are more elaborate and can accommodate more than one person; they are more like tree houses than stands. They take more than the one man to set up and are usually made of wood painted with a camouflage and leaves. Along the same line as the tree stand is the tripod stand, which is a free standing platform on three legs, thus the reason they call it a tripod stand. It is also covered with a camouflage tent and has a small ladder that allows you to climb up into the above ground tent as it were. There are several windows which allow you and at least two other people to look out for approaching deer or other wild game you are hunting.

Trail Timer or Photo System -

An additional hunting supply you might consider bringing on your trip would be a trail timer or photo system which allows you to do a little homework before you start out hunting. Both of these systems attaches to a tree and can monitor motions and snap a photograph of what moved, and then store it in the memory for you to retrieve it when you return. This way you know when and where the deer or other game you are hunting has crossed this way.

One item that is most helpful to hunters, almost as helpful as the calls would be a feeder. There are several varieties of deer feeders available today, such as the tree stump feeder, in which the deer attracting feed is falling out the bottom of a fake tree stump. There are also hanging bags of feed and tripods set up to lure the deer out into the open with special feed they are attracted too.

William "Cole" Doggett is the owner and operator of the finest hunting supplies website on the Internet today carrying everything you need for a perfect hunt at the best prices. Stop by and check out http://www.HuntingGearSupplies.com for all your Hunting Supplies and needs.

Where to Hunt on Federal Land in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Arkansas

Established by to provide protection to hardwood forests in 1908, the Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is located in Parkdale, Arkansas. With more than 13,000 acres of land, the refuge is the resting and breeding grounds for many different species of birds and mammals. The Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is responsible for the Mississippi flyway, which assists waterfowl populations across the United States. This refuge is home to many different birds and animals. Amongst the year visitors there are wood ducks, mallards, and many other species of waterfowl

Because the Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is mostly known as a migratory bird spot, there is no hunting allowed until the start of deer season and this is only after the birds have taken off to go south for their winter period. They offer two different seasons for hunters, archery and firearms season for deer hunting.

Tennessee

The Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge is located along the lower portion of the Mississippi River. Spanning 25,006 acres, this area is home to many different species of wildlife. Over the years, the population of waterfowl can reach as much as 250,000 on a yearly basis during migration season. Travellers to this area include mergansers, ring-necked ducks, wood ducks, wigeon, teal, pintail, gadwall, and black ducks.

As with most wildlife refuges, you must follow the rules and regulations as defined by the state of Tennessee to hunt. Though allowed in the Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge, you must be sure to follow all rules and regulations as set forth by the federal and state government. Contact the Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge or visit their website to determine what rules and regulations apply to you.

Mississippi

In Mississippi, The Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge provides wildlife enthusiasts and hunters with many acres acres of land in this, the oldest refuge protected federally in Mississippi. There are many different bird species and mammal species within the refuge, which was established in 1936. The Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge is also home to one of the biggest and healthiest group of American Alligators within the United States. It is generally a good idea to avoid this refuge or the Alligator nests until after birth of baby gators in September, as the mothers protective gears are in extra sensitive mode during this time.

To hunt at the Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Mississippi law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.

Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold VX-III rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where to Hunt On Federal Land: Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire

Before you run off to hunt, it is important to understand where you can hunt and avoid any type of trouble. The federal government has identified several hunting arenas on their land. It is important to understand in which areas you can legally hunt and in which areas you are not allowed. In this article, we will discuss the hunting areas of Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire, the Northeastern corner of the United States.

Maine

In Maine, the Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge is located in Milbridge, Maine. Encompassing 250 miles of the coastline in Maine, this refuge took eight years to establish. In 972, this federal land was first established as a refuge and over the next eight years, it grew and now houses a wide variety of different species of wildlife. When visiting this location, it is important to understand all rules and regulations as they apply to any activity. For example, the Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge is only open during the hours of daylight.

For hunters, you will enjoy a unique hunting experience. In this area, hunter's favorites big game, small game, waterfowl, and game bird hunting. However, the only hunting allowed on Bois Bubert Island is for white-tailed deer. Hunters are allowed to use archery equipment, muzzleloaders, and shotguns. Modern firearms such as handguns and center fire rifles are restricted and there may be other regulations and restrictions that apply. The monument and refuge publishes rules and regulations each year, which defines seasons and game allowed.

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, The Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge located in Newington, New Hampshire is federally operated and allows hunting. Established in the year 1992, the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge was first created to provide protection for the natural habitat of all wildlife species. With several acres of land, this refuge consists of plenty of natural habit. This refuge is open year around to visitors and is always open from dawn until dusk, every day of the week.

While hunting is allowed on this piece of land, they typically only host limited deer hunts during the month of November. This is because the refuge is first and foremost a protective element for our National bird. It is said that on any given night, up to three hundred bald eagles use the roost on the northeast slope of the refuge.

Hunters enjoy this location for deer hunting, as well as pheasant and waterfowl hunting. Any hunters at the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge are required to pay a permit fee, of which there are only a few. You are further required to have a hunting license within the state of New Hampshire, along with any permits and stamps as required federally or by the state.

Vermont

In Vermont, the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge is a 6,482 acre federally protected refuge located in Swanton, Vermont. Situated along the shore of the popular Lake Champlain, this refuge was created in 1943. The natural habitat offered by the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge includes trees like red maple, silver maple, white oak, white ash, and American Elm.

At the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, hunters can enjoy deer hunting, upland game hunting, and waterfowl hunting each season. As for any federal refuge, it is important to read all rules and regulations prior to going to the site to hunt. You must have a permit, licensing, and follow all regulations as outlined at the federal and state level.

This means that you should understand the open season for hunting any game and so forth. At the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, you may want to make reservations so that you can take part in the sport, there is a quota each day that the refuge cannot extend. You should also know the days in which hunting is allowed.

Wrapping It Up

Before you visit any federal land, be sure that you obtain any special licenses, permits, or stamps as required. Many states require specific types of stamps to hunt specific types of game. Make certain that you have done this in order to avoid trouble. Every state is different in regards to their requirements on weapons, usage, and ammunition, be sure to understand them as they apply to you.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold VX-I rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where to Hunt on Federal Land: Florida, Georgia, Alabama

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.

Florida

The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1996. On the Southwestern section of Florida, this refuge is located in Naples, Florida. With 35,000 acres of land, this area protects many different wildlife species native to the area. Many of these species include dolphins, sea turtles, osprey, bald eagles, shorebirds, wading birds, and alligators. Each year the refuge sees around 200,000 people hunting, fishing, and viewing the wildlife.
Hunting is permitting for waterfowl during the months of November through January. Because of the warmer climate, many birds migrate to this area in the winter time to experience the warmer temperatures. After winter is over, the birds will return north for the cooler temperatures not in existence in the southern states. The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is much more than just a hunting spot, it is also perfect for getting an up close and personal look at wildlife in action.

Georgia

The Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is located in Round Oak, Georgia. This area is home to many different species of wildlife. With 6,500 thousand acres of Bond Swamp land, this refuge opened in the year 2000. It is home to many different types of animals such as bald eagles, waterfowl, wild turkey, alligators, black bears, wood ducks, and white-tailed deer.
As with most wildlife refuges, you must follow the rules and regulations as defined by the state of Georgia to hunt. Though allowed in the Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, you must be sure to follow all rules and regulations as set forth by the federal and state government. Contact the Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge or visit their website to determine what rules and regulations apply to you. The Bond Swamp National Wildlife is much more than just a hunting spot, it is also perfect for getting an up close and personal look at wildlife in action.

Alabama

In Alabama, The Key Cave National Wildlife Reserve provides wildlife enthusiasts and hunters with more than 1,600 acres of land in Decatur, Alabama. There are many different bird species and mammal species within the refuge. You will find a host of native species of animals for viewing or hunting. Be sure to understand which animals can be hunted and which ones are restricted and protected from hunters.

To hunt at the Key Cave National Wildlife Reserve you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Alabama law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.
Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold VX II rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where to Hunt On Federal Land: Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina

Before you run off to hunt, it is important to understand where you can hunt and avoid any type of trouble. The federal government has identified several hunting arenas on their land. It is important to understand in which areas you can legally hunt and in which areas you are not allowed. In this article, we will discuss the hunting areas of Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, the eastern corner of the United States.

Virginia

In Virginia, the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge is located in Cape Charles, Virginia, on the Delmarva Peninsula tip. Encompassing 1,127 acres of land, this refuge is a very important stop along the route for migratory birds. Not only is this a popular stop along the migration highway for birds, but also butterflies at the same time. Each fall, just as the trees turn each year, the birds converge on the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge for a healthy dose of rest and food.

For hunters, you will enjoy a unique hunting experience. In this area, hunters favor deer hunting during the appropriate season. The white-tailed deer are the only species open for hunting on this land. However, the only hunting allowed on Bois Bubert Island is for white-tailed deer. Hunters are allowed to use archery equipment, and shotguns. Modern firearms such as handguns and center fire rifles are restricted and there may be other regulations and restrictions that apply. Remember, you must have a permit and license for hunting in order to do so legally.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, The Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge located in Windsor, North Carolina is federally operated and allows hunting. Established in the year 1989, the Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge was first created to provide protection for wooded wetlands, swamps, hardwoods, and bottomlands. With more than 130 miles of land, this refuge consists of plenty of natural habit, which includes blackwater streams, beaver ponds, oxbows, and levee forest. This refuge is open year around to visitors and is always open from dawn until dusk, every day of the week.

While hunting is allowed on this piece of land, they typically only host limited deer hunts during the month of November. This is because the refuge is first and foremost a protective element for our nation's wildlife.

Hunters enjoy this location for deer hunting, as well as pheasant and waterfowl hunting. Any hunters at the Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge are required to pay a permit fee, of which there are only a few. You are further required to have a hunting license within the state of North Carolina, along with any permits and stamps as required federally or by the state.

South Carolina

In South Carolina, the Carolina Sandills National Wildlife Refuge is a 45,348 acre federally protected refuge located in McBee, South Carolina. Created in 1939, this federal refuge is home to hundreds of different species of wildlife. Of these species, there are twenty-five different amphibian species, forty-one different reptile species, forty-two different mammal species, and 190 different bird species.
At the Carolina Sandills National Wildlife Refuge, hunters can enjoy many different organized hunts each year, which gives free permits to hunters. These free permit hunts are good for all hunts, with the exception of hunting for turkey as for any federal refuge, it is important to read all rules and regulations prior to going to the site to hunt. You must have a permit, licensing, and follow all regulations as outlined at the federal and state level.

This means that you should understand the open season for hunting any game and so forth. At the Carolina Sandills National Wildlife Refuge, you may want to make reservations so that you can take part in the sport, there is a quota each day that the refuge cannot extend. You should also know the days in which hunting is allowed.

Wrapping It Up

Before you visit any federal land, be sure that you obtain any special licenses, permits, or stamps as required. Many states require specific types of stamps to hunt specific types of game. Make certain that you have done this in order to avoid trouble. Every state is different in regards to their requirements on weapons, usage, and ammunition, be sure to understand them as they apply to you.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold VX I rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where To Hunt On Federal Land: North Western United States

Before you run off to hunt, it is important to understand where you can hunt and avoid any type of trouble. The federal government has identified several hunting arenas on their land. It is important to understand in which areas you can legally hunt and in which areas you are not allowed. In this article, we will discuss the hunting areas of Washington, Oregon, and California, the Northwestern corner of the United States.

Washington

Hunting is open for business at Saddle Mountain National Wildlife Refuge in Richland, Washington. This wildlife refuge is also a national monument. In 2000, former President Clinton created the monument. This federal land has 195,000 acres and was originally created in the year 1953. When visiting this location, it is important to understand all rules and regulations as they apply to any activity. For example, the Saddle Mountain National Wildlife Refuge opens two hours prior to sunrise and closes two hours following sunset.

For hunters, you will enjoy a unique hunting experience. In this area, hunters favorites are Rocky Mountain Elk, Harvest Mule Deer, Waterfowl, California Quail, and Chukar. Hunters are allowed to use archery equipment, muzzleloaders, and shotguns. Modern firearms such as handguns and center fire rifles are restricted and there may be other regulations and restrictions that apply. The monument and refuge publishes rules and regulations each year, which defines seasons and game allowed.

If you are looking to trap or hunt falcons, raccoon, crow, cottontail rabbits, and coyote, it is important to note that this type of hunting is prohibited at the monument and refuge.

Oregon

In Oregon, The Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge located in Klamath County is federally operated and allows hunting. Established in the year 1978, the Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge was first created to provide protection for bald eagles in the area during winter time. All 4,200 acres of this refuge consists of plenty of natural habit. It is home to douglas fir, white fir, incense cedar, and ponderosa pine. This makes it a prime spot for the Bald Eagle and other birds.

While hunting is allowed on this piece of land, no public entry of any type is allowed prior to November first of each year. This is because the refuge is first and foremost a protective element for our National bird. It is said that on any given night, up to three hundred bald eagles use the roost on the northeast slope of the refuge.

Hunters enjoy this location for deer hunting, as well as pheasant and waterfowl hunting. Any hunters at the Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge are required to pay a hunt fee each year. You are further required to have a hunting license within the state of Oregon, along with any permits and stamps as required federally or by the state.

California

In California, the Delevan National Wildlife Refuge is a 5,796 acre federally protected refuge located in Williams, California. Though a part of the Sacramento Valley refuge complex, which comprises of six different refuges, it is a independent refuge that is home to many different species. These species include deer, muskrat, beaver, blackbird, heron, grebe, bald eagle, falcon, snake, and many others. Each year, 7,000 hunters converge to this refuge to take part in the sport.

At the Delevan National Wildlife Refuge, hunters have two choices, spaced or free roaming hunting. Spaced hunting is perfect for hunters who like no competition and interference during hunting. Free roam hunting provides unrestricted movements, but could lead to interference and competition for the game. As for any federal refuge, it is important to read all rules and regulations prior to going to the site to hunt.

This means that you should understand the open season for hunting any game and so forth. At the Delevan National Wildlife Refuge, you may want to make reservations so that you can take part in the sport, there is a quota each day that the refuge cannot extend. You should also know the days in which hunting is allowed. At this refuge, hunting is allowed on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Wrapping It Up

Before you visit any federal land, be sure that you obtain any special licenses, permits, or stamps as required. Many states require specific types of stamps to hunt specific types of game. Make certain that you have done this in order to avoid trouble. Every state is different in regards to their requirements on weapons, usage, and ammunition, be sure to understand them as they apply to you.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold Mark 4 LR/T rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Survival Tips For Deer Hunting

There are times when even the best of woodsmen are forced to spend a night in the wilderness. A man might travel so far into the woods after a deer that it might be unsafe or impractical for him to try to find his way to the camp in the darkness. He might become lost as to direction, and prefer to camp out instead of risking the chance of becoming more confused by aimless traveling.

If, for any reason, it is necessary to spend the night in the woods, a knowledge of some of the fundamentals of woodcraft will aid in the comfort and even the survival of the lost person.

People seldom become lost on a day when the sun is shining, so the chances are that cold, wet or stormy weather has to be dealt with.

Fire is the most important item in the camp. The hearth is the symbol of the home and nothing does more to make a man feel at ease in the woods than a good fire. Build it against a fallen tree or a dead stub so that there will be a back-log to hold the heat.

Gather as large a supply of dry limbs and down-wood as possible, because an open fire can use a surprising amount of fuel in a night and it is no fun to hunt for it in the dark. Gather anything which might burn and which can be dragged.

Sometimes a man will be caught with no dry matches or other conventional means of starting a fire. In such cases it is possible to borrow a page from the days of the flint-lock, when the hunter would use his gun as a fire starter. This modern adaptation should not be used except in an emergency, but it is usually effective.

The fire should be located with the thought of some sort of shelter in mind. A shelter is almost a must on a stormy night. A log at the back is better than nothing. A vertical ledge or rock is better and a small cave is probably the best of all natural shelters. Lacking a natural shelter, a brush lean-to can be made.

Before a person retires for the night, the boots should be removed and the socks dried, if such a thing is possible. Usually the feet will be warmer if the boots are left off during the night. The arms should be removed from the coat sleeves and the coat buttoned with the arms and hands inside next to the body. Sleep should be possible as long as the fire continues to burn.

Many people are afraid to sleep in the snow without a fire for fear of freezing while they are asleep. This fear will sometimes cause a person to continue to travel until he is exhausted and in such a case there is real danger if he should try to sleep or rest in the cold. If a man is in good health, properly dressed and conditioned to cold weather, and camps before he becomes too tired, it is possible for him to resist the effects of low temperature.

After the lost hunter has spent the night in the woods, he should try to orient himself in the morning. This should not be hard to do if the sun is shining. He should not trust to instinct, but should reason things out. Even if the sun seems to be somewhere else, it must be in the east, so there is one sure direction. The other points of the compass should be easy to figure.

This information is of no value unless the lost person knows the direction in which he left camp or the direction of the road which runs by the camp. If these things are not known, it is best to remain in the temporary camp and wait for aid, keeping plenty of damp wood on the fire as a signal to searchers.

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Where to Hunt on Federal Land: North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska.

North Dakota

Established by former President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908, the Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located in Woodworth, North Dakota. With 4,385 acres of land, the refuge is the resting and breeding grounds for greater than 293 species of birds. The Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge has been named as one of the Top 100 Globally Important Bird Areas in the United States. Aside from Chase Lake, the refuge is also home to wetlands, nesting cover, and native prairie lands. Most of the Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is untouched by alteration and has remained in this state since the times of the European-American settlements.

Because the Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is mostly known as a migratory bird spot, there is no hunting allowed until the start of deer season and this is only after the birds have taken off to go south for their winter period. They offer two different seasons for hunters, archery and firearms season for deer hunting.

South Dakota

The Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge is located in Lake Andes, South Dakota. This area is home to many different species of wildlife. Many years ago the Sioux Indians used the area near the lake for camps and hunting. After this time it turned into a premier fishing spot and continues to be a popular spot for hunters, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
As with most wildlife refuges, you must follow the rules and regulations as defined by the state of South Dakota to hunt. Though allowed in the Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge, you must be sure to follow all rules and regulations as set forth by the federal and state government. Contact the Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge or visit their website to determine what rules and regulations apply to you.

Nebraska

In Nebraska, The Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District provides wildlife enthusiasts and hunters with more than 23,000 acres of land in southeastern Nebraska. There are many different bird species and mammal species within the refuge, which encompasses fourteen different counties across Nebraska. These areas include Weseman, Atlanta, Waco, Victor Lakes, Cottonwood, Springer, County Line, Prairie Dog, Eckhardt, Peterson, Freeman Lakes, Massie, Mallard Haven, Macon Lakes, Kenesaw, Jones, Hultine, Harvard, and so many others.

To hunt at the Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Nebraska law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.
Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold VX-II rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where to Hunt on Federal Land: Idaho, Nevada, and Utah

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of Idaho, Nevada, and Utah.

Idaho

In Idaho, the Camas National Wildlife Refuge is the established federal refuge located in Hamer, Idaho. Located in Southeast Idaho, the Camas National Wildlife Refuge is home to many different species of wildlife. The refuge hosts as many as three thousand geese and fifty thousand ducks during migration season. Swan also frequents the refuge as of late as well. Typically, these are trumpeter and tundra swans.

With 10,578 acres of land, the Camas National Wildlife Refuge, is also home to habitat of uplands, meadows, and marshes. For hunters, they have the opportunity to enjoy game bird and waterfowl hunting. The government has defined specific areas for hunting only and as in most states, you are required to have a license to hunt, as well as stamps that may be required on the federal and state level. Permits and validation may also be required Hunters generally enjoy hunting for sape grouse, pheasants, snipe, mergansers, coots, geese, and ducks.

Nevada

In Nevada, the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 23,000 acres of land. These wetlands are spring fed and is the home of many different species of animals. At least twenty-five of these species cannot be found in other areas of the world. Of these twenty-five, thirteen of them have been placed on the threatened or endangered list. Located in Amargosa Valley, Nevada, the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1984.
Hunting in the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is allowed in specific designated areas. For example, within the Death Valley National Park, hunting is not allowed. Hunters are allowed to hunt for a variety of animals such as rabbit, quail, doves, snipe, moorhens, coots, ducks, and geese. Non-toxic shots are the only type of ammunition approved for use in the area and hunters may use dogs while hunting. It is important to note the times and seasons for hunting different game before converging to the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.

Utah

The Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge is located in Dugway, Utah. This 17,992 acres of land was created in 1959. It is the home for many wintering and migrating birds and provides habitat for many different species of animals at the same time. While this land is now the location of the Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge, at one time, almost 10,000 years to be precise, this area was the home to Indian tribes.

For hunting enthusiasts, you can hunt only geese, coots, mergansers, and ducks. It is prohibited and illegal to hunt for other wildlife species. During season, hunters may start hunting up to two hours before sunrise and must cease all hunting by one and a half hours after the sun has set. You should make sure that you have any and all licenses, stamps and permits as required. If you start hunting without possessing any of these things, you may be ticketed and fined.

Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold Mark 4 MR/T rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html

Where To Hunt On Federal Land: Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico

Before you run off to hunt, it is important to understand where you can hunt and avoid any type of trouble. The federal government has identified several hunting arenas on their land. It is important to understand in which areas you can legally hunt and in which areas you are not allowed. In this article, we will discuss the hunting areas of Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico, the Southern section of the United States.

New Mexico

The Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge is the third largest of all refuges in the continental United States. The land is made up of mountain ranges, desert, and pure wilderness. Made up of a thousand square miles, you can experience the best and sometimes the worst of the desert at this refuge. It is not uncommon to find 100 degree temperatures and little rain.

The refuge provides protection for many different species such as woodpeckers, Elf Owls, Desert Turtles, Rattlesnakes, Lizards, Bighorns, long nosed bats, and the Sonoran Pronghorn. For hunters, typically the only hunting allowed in the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge is bighorn sheep hunting. It is important to remember that you are in the desert and also an area that was once a bombing and gunnery range during the second World War.

On your hunting experience, you may encounter several different things. It is important to be careful and practice safety at all times. Because the hikes can be long and the desert can be hot, you should make certain that you always have plenty of water and food.

Texas

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is the federally operated land in Texas that permits limited hunting. A whopping 59,000 acres, you will find a host of beautiful and serene wildlife habitats. This area plays host to many different types of animals such as clams, blue crabs, fish, geese, ducks, spoonbills, egrets, herons, and Pelicans. The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is well known for being the safe haven to some of the tallest birds in North America during the wintertime.

Located in Austewell, Texas, hunting for waterfowl, mourning dove, feral hogs, and white-tailed deer is typically allowed. The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge hosts many organized hunts each year. These hunts are known as archery, rifle, and youth hunts. As with all other federal hunting land, you are required to have all permits, licenses, and stamps prior to taking part in the hunts. You will also be required to pay fees to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. These fees depend on the type of hunting you will be doing.

Louisiana

The Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge, located in Ferriday Louisiana is home to the last of the Mississippi River Delta's least disturbed forest land. This federal wildlife refuge has more than 11,255 acres of land and was established in 1992 as a way to protect this last bit of forest area. The Cocodrie Bayou, which runs through the center of the refuge, is one of Louisiana states scenic rivers. The refuge employs just seven staff members and sees roughly 5,000 people visiting the area each year.

The area has special hunts throughout the year, particularly to help control the population of feral hogs. There are regulated hunts during regular hunting seasons and all rules, as well as regulations, must be followed at all times. In general, the same rules in regards to licenses, permits, and stamps apply at Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge, as in other federal hunting areas. Any person over the age of 16 will be required to carry a license and permit.

It is important to know the standard rules and regulations of the Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge before you visit. Hours of operation start at 4:00 each morning and will end no more than two hours after sunset. This applies to all hunters except those that are participating opossum and raccoon, in which February has extended hours for these hunters.

Wrapping It Up

Before you visit any federal land, be sure that you obtain any special licenses, permits, or stamps as required. Many states require specific types of stamps to hunt specific types of game. Make certain that you have done this in order to avoid trouble. Every state is different in regards to their requirements on weapons, usage, and ammunition, be sure to understand them as they apply to you.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold MK 4 LR/T rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where to Hunt on Federal Land: Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

Montana

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge encompasses nineteen square miles of land or 12,383 acres. Located in the Great Plains, in Great Falls, Montana it is situated between Great Falls and the Rocky Mountains. The refuge, opened in 1961, provides a stopping ground for at least 199 different species of birds and other animals. Different weather seasons bring different types of birds. For example, in the winter it is not uncommon to see snowy owls, hawks, and chickadees.

The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge does allow hunting for upland birds and waterfowls. Specific areas are hunting areas and hunters are only allowed in these designated areas. Hunting is only allowed for species such as sharp-tailed grouse, ring-necked pheasants, gray partridge, tundra swans, mergansers, coots, geese, and ducks. You may not hunt for any other species of wildlife such as skunk, raccoon, fox, coyote, or rabbits. To hunt, you must only use non-toxic shots and respect all boundaries of the refuge.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is the federal land designated for protecting and providing habitat for several different species of animals. With 26,400 acres of land, it is accessible to the Green River. Established in 1965, the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is not only home to many fabulous wildlife species, but also a very popular tourist attraction with more than 10,000 visitors each year. Early pioneers, fur trappers, and Indian tribes used this area long ago, which leaves a rich cultural and historic history.

The Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is home to at least 220 different bird species, as well as many mammals. Some species that can be seen at the refuge include ducks, sage grouse, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, moose, bobcat, mule deer, pronghorn, porcupine, and coyote. Hunting is allowed for waterfowl, sage grouse, mule deer, and antelope.
Colorado

The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge is located in Alamosa, Colorado. Located in the San Luis Valley, this refuge is wetlands that covers more than 11,000 acres of land. There are many different species of bird and wildlife available for viewing at the refuge. As with many other wildlife refuges, the birds and animals you see at any given time, depends on the time of year. Many species of birds visit at various times of the year, usually defined by the seasons, summer, spring, winter, and fall.

To hunt at the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Colorado law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.
Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold Mk 4 MR/T rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Where to Hunt on Federal Land in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.

Kansas

Established by to provide protection to hardwood forests in 1908, the Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is located in Parkdale, Arkansas. With more than 13,000 acres of land, the refuge is the resting and breeding grounds for many different species of birds and mammals. The Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is responsible for the Mississippi flyway, which assists waterfowl populations across the United States. This refuge is home to many different birds and animals. Amongst the year visitors there are wood ducks, mallards, and many other species of waterfowl

Because the Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is mostly known as a migratory bird spot, there is no hunting allowed until the start of deer season and this is only after the birds have taken off to go south for their winter period. They offer two different seasons for hunters, archery and firearms season for deer hunting.

Oklahoma

The Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge is located along the lower portion of the Mississippi River. Spanning 25,006 acres, this area is home to many different species of wildlife. Over the years, the population of waterfowl can reach as much as 250,000 on a yearly basis during migration season. Travellers to this area include mergansers, ring-necked ducks, wood ducks, wigeon, teal, pintail, gadwall, and black ducks.
As with most wildlife refuges, you must follow the rules and regulations as defined by the state of Tennessee to hunt. Though allowed in the Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge, you must be sure to follow all rules and regulations as set forth by the federal and state government. Contact the Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge or visit their website to determine what rules and regulations apply to you.

Missouri

In Mississippi, The Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge provides wildlife enthusiasts and hunters with many acres acres of land in this, the oldest refuge protected federally in Mississippi. There are many different bird species and mammal species within the refuge, which was established in 1936. The Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge is also home to one of the biggest and healthiest group of American Alligators within the United States. It is generally a good idea to avoid this refuge or the Alligator nests until after birth of baby gators in September, as the mothers protective gears are in extra sensitive mode during this time.

To hunt at the Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Mississippi law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.
Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold VX III rifle scopes please go to http://theriflescopestore.com/lema4lrlorat.html.

Hunting Message Boards Available Online

Hunters around the world are able to keep in touch with the world of hunting through hunting message boards centrally located through the World Wide Web. The message board concept is an inviting medium that hunters use to find out useful pieces of information about all types of hunting. If the topic is hunting in general then users can post their comments for others to use and make a written retort if they do not happen to agree on the information contained in a previous post.

Some hunters might not know what hunting in Ontario is like until they reach the posts on a hunting message board. People from all points of interest are welcome to stop by the hunting message board locations and brag about the largest buck they have ever nabbed and get some relief from the sadness caused by the buck that steered clear of the mayhem and luckily got away. Comments about hunting in Ontario are sure to be interesting and informative message boards.

Message boards are also the place where hunters would go to ask questions. Some people might not know what turkey tastes like, but they can discuss this item of interest with any turkey hunter and get a true flavor of turkey like no guest in a diner would ever be privy too. Turkey hunters can leave interesting comments about how to kill a turkey with a bow and how to dress the bird out after the kill. Some hunting message boards might question the correct turkey season in Cleveland.

Hunters of all types are sure to find some categories on the hunting message boards that they can use to improve their hunting techniques. Hunters can also visit the site and vent any displeasures that might have about the limits placed on certain animals. Other hunters might search the categories for one that will offer advice on how a hunter deals with a wife who thinks that hunting seasons should be banned altogether. The comments on that question should be very interesting to say the least.

Some hunters might need clarification on what qualifies a man to be a hunter of big game. Some hunters might have whimsical answers that might be taken to heart by another hunter that spends too much time in a blind alone with his thoughts on cold, starry nights. Those comments might be displayed on a hunting message board. The banter of hunting related jabber could go on for hours on end but the original poster might not ever get firm rule on the initial question about big game hunters.

Some hunters are firm believers in wasting nothing and will often use the message boards to learn the location of game killed by natural causes during a hard winter or a super hot summer. The hunter will search the message for any word on deer antlers and will often refer to these deer fashion accessories as ivory jewels via the Texas byways or any other State where deer roam about and presumably stumble and fall down. Hunting message boards do promote forest conversation efforts in every way possible after all.

James Brown writes about http://www.huntinggearshop.com

Supplies Needed For Deer Hunting

A deer hunter will need various supplies while in the woods on a hunting trip and food supplies will need to be calculated carefully in order to feed the number of hunters in the group at any time. The most common pieces of hunting supplies will be the tents and sleeping bags but those will only be needed when the hunting group makes camp and that is not necessarily before sunset.

Some deer hunters might not arrive at camp again for several days until midday or later if the deer hunting season is in full mode and the deer hunting equipment that is on them during that time will consist of a rifle, shells, orange vest and multiple layers of warm clothing. All hunters will make it a point to bring an extra set of camouflage pants with them because traveling through scrub and dry bushes has a tendency to rip and tear any type of clothing that they have chosen to wear.

The hunting supplies needed at camp will include items that provide comfort. Hunters will usually create a home away home in the woods and bring with them the comforts of home in the deer hunting supplies truck. The hunter might include luxurious hunting supplies in the form of a bed, lanterns, flashlights, some chairs, and tables and a battery-powered radio equipped with a weather station selector.

Some deer hunters prefer to rough it and will use candles in place of lanterns and use blankets in place of cots to bed down for the night. It is rare for any deer hunter to bathe on a hunting trip but some might, and the deer hunting supplies packed well before the group departed would include a shower bag that attaches to a tree limb and the hunter would only have to hope that a slow-moving creek would be found close by. The deer hunting supplies will always include several heaters because no hunter wants to be in the woods overnight shivering uncontrollably.

Every hunter will make sure that they have the right amount of ammunition. Some might go deer hunting with a crossbow, and others will select rifles of certain calibers. Most deer hunting supplies will conform to lawful regulations and deer hunters will double check to make sure that they have a valid deer hunting license for the right season. The seasoned deer hunter might carry deer hunting supplies like rifle scopes in a handy bag on his back, and the unseasoned deer hunter might choose to carry a rifle unloaded thinking that there will be ample time to load it.

A seasoned deer hunter will always include knives in the deer hunting supplies as well as a tree stand or two. These items will prove to be very useful while waiting and watching for a deer to show up. An unseasoned deer hunter might have to learn how to dress a deer out quickly and use the hunting supplies to the best advantage, but they will also need to learn when to call it a day because when nightfall comes all seasoned hunters will already be settled into their favorite hunting spot.

James Brown writes about http://www.huntinggearshop.com

The Best Trailer Hitch Locks

If you or someone you know owns a trailer then you will want to invest in a trailer hitch lock in order to protect your investment. It is a wise decision for those who make a point of purchasing expensive trailers and recreational vehicles with trailers, to accompany them with a secure lock in order to protect against theft.

As with trailers, trailer hitch locks come in all sorts of types and configurations. The main advantage to having a lock is to provide adequate protection against theft, but you can also use these locks to prevent the trailer coupler latch from inadvertently popping loose and causing the trailer to accidentally uncouple.

Trailer hitches come in an assortment of styles that require a wide range of connection and weight ratings. These trailer hitches use a variety of principles to connect your cargo to your vehicle and depending on the type and size of trailer will determine exactly what type of trailer hitch lock you will need.

Ball Type Hitch: These are the most commonly used trailer hitches. They have a machined ball that bolts onto a hitch receiver which slides into a tube designed into your vehicles hitch. They can be used for weights of 2,000 to 25,000 pounds. The size of ball that is required will depend on the size of your trailer hitch coupler.

Gooseneck Hitch: These trailer hitches are typically used for hauling 25,000 to 30,000 pounds and are used for heavier trailers such as hauling vehicles or livestock. As opposed to having the trailer hitch at the rear of the vehicle, it is located over the towing vehicle's drive axle to prevent swaying for a more comfortable drive especially over long distances.

5th Wheel Hitch: This trailer hitch is widely recognized and has a King Pin mount that is approximately 3" diameter hardened steel shaft with a recessed notch that circles the center of the 5th wheel plate that is bolted into the truck. This type of connection is the strongest in the industry and is able to carry over 80,000 pounds.

When examining all the needs for a trailer hitch and the extent of cargo that they carry, purchasing trailer hitch locks can be fairly easy. There are a number of locks on the market today, all with their own specifications as well as many choices of retailers. An option that some trailer hitch locks come with is a black powder coating to help prevent rusting. If you are looking for accidental uncoupling features, there are many fast-lock couplers that have heavy-duty locking systems built in.

Dead bolt receiver type locks secure the receiver into your vehicle quickly and effortlessly, while built-in radial pin locks have extra security for locking the trailer to the tow vehicle. You can also purchase trailer hitch radial locks that you are able to set with your own personal combination so you don't need to fool with keys. For the cost of one of these trailer hitch locks, you cannot go wrong considering the vast security benefits that it provides for your trailer as well as your cargo.

Mike Schantz is half owner in 2 different trailer manufacturing companies. He has served the trailer industry for well over 25 years. You can read more about him as well as trailers and trailer related information at http://www.trailer411.com/trailer-hitch-locks.html

Why Gerber Hunting Knives Continue To Be A Market Leader

For the serious knife collectors all over the world, there are so many knives in different sizes and descriptions, it's a wonder how they keep track of them all. Many collectors like to have different varieties in their collections, while others may focus on a more specific name brand.

The Gerber Legendary Blades is a famous name in the knife industry. Since its birth in the year 1939 the Gerber Legendary Blades have been engaged in producing the quality range of skillfully crafted cutlery knives and other multipurpose equipments. Gerber hunting knives are one of the awesome products of this line. They are skillfully designed with the utmost design innovation and are for specific purposes by the hunting fanatics. The founder, Joseph Gerber, had started out with the idea of making twenty five wonderful kitchen cutlery sets to be given to his clients as a Christmas gift in the year 1910. The knives, made by a hired knife-maker, turned to be highly popular. Out of the blue Gerber decided to quit his advertising agency and paid his full time attention to developing the Gerber Legendary Blades.

Even after six decades Gerber Legendary Blades is still at its zenith as far as the name and fame are concerned. Even today, with a wide array of innovative creations, the company is thriving well in the midst of the rampant competition of the modern day knife market.

Some Great Gerber Hunting Knives

Among the wide assortment of Gerber hunting knives, the best ones are as follows:

Freeman Hunter: This is one of the most well known designs of hunting knives in the hunters' community. The polished pear wooden handle enhances the aesthetic quality of the equipment. This hunting knife had been designed to facilitate the hunters to skin smaller and larger games quite easily. Crafted from the premium grade stainless steel, this legendary creation of Gerber Legendary Blades has proven to be the best for real hunters and has won the BEST OF THE BEST award. The most significant features of this knife are its true finger guard with the finger grooves. The thumb serration helps to exert added pressure while cutting. It comes in a ballistic nylon sheath with the full length of 8.35".

The Firestorm: Made from the surgical stainless tanto type blade, this 3.25" knife is heavy-duty equipment. The steel handle with polycarbonate scales not only ensures strong grip but also enhances the beauty. With a steel jacket this has a total length of 8.25", costing $64.99.

Harsey Fixed Blade Hunter with Tactical Sheath: This is a classic kind of knife with stainless-steel drop point blade and rubber handle. With the 5 ¼ inches, 400-series full tang stainless blade and sharp edge, this smart equipment becomes valuable to any situation. It comes in a tactical jacket, total length 10.5".

Magnum Camo Jr.: This is an expanded version of Gerber knives LST series. With the 420HC steel, this 2 ¾ fine edge blade has amazingly durable edge and sharpness. The fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic unbreakable handle with Mossy Oak Brand camouflage finish is the eye catching part of the knife. It has a total length 6.19".

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as a Gerber knife at http://www.only-knives.com

Why Buck Hunting Knives Continue To Be As Popular As Ever

There are collectors for just about every item that you can think of. Some people collect dolls, while others collect stamps and angel figurines. One of the most popular items to collect is knives. There are various types of knives on the market that appeal to the different interests of knife collectors. One type that is always in demand is the Buck Knife.

Buck knives, created by the famous manufacturers of knives since the first phase of the 20th century, are well known to all the serious knife enthusiasts of the world. Since the year 1902, they have engaged in manufacturing various types of knives ranging from small pocket knives, to contemporary folding blades, to heavy duty multipurpose knives. They have come up with a quality range of great utility knives needed for sports and, recreational purposes such as hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and for any other non-recreational works.

With such a wide array of various kinds of knives, buck hunting knives have engulfed a great section of the knife market, providing only the quality products that are sturdy enough to be banked upon. They tend to take utmost care in quality control and their knives are crafted from the high quality stainless steel of special grade. By the use of the Edge2X technology they produce sharper blades with prolonged durability. These blades are then treated with heat in order to enhance the durability even more. This is the reason behind the fact that the buck hunting knives are the best brand in the industry today.

There is a wide assortment of buck hunting knives found in the market today. Some of the wondrous items are as follows:

The Alpha Hunter Folder Rosewood is wondrously designed. The artistic rosewood handle infused by resin, is just one of the knife's components that make is so attractive to own. The blade is another feature that tempts collectors. 3.5 inches long, it is crafted from ATS34 stainless steel. This comes in a sophisticated brown leather jacket that is 5 inches long.

The Alpha Hunter Folder, Guthook, Rosewood is almost the same as the Alpha Hunter Folder with the rosewood handle. But a guthook is added to the knife as a special feature.

The Alpha Hunter 420 Drop Point with Black Handle is crafted from 420HC stainless steel. The tang is full length and the rubber handle is designed to allow the tang to show. The length is 8.5 inches including the Cordura sheath.

The Diamondback is another knife that has demonstrated high quality design. The strong blade combined with the cool handle is why this knife is often soft after. Made of the krayton tactile rubber, this handle looks like the diamond back snake skin. The full length, including the sturdy black nylon sheath, is 9.5 inches and the set costs $27.00.

Most serious collectors will tell you about the high quality level of these knives. There is a reason that Buck knives have been popular for so many years and that reason is there highly maintained standard of excellence. If you want to be the envy of all your knife collecting friends, show off your Buck collection.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as a buck knife at http://www.only-knives.com

Discounted Accessories for Hunting

Hunters might not know what they like finding best, discounted hunting accessories that save them lots of money or a buck in the woods that has a huge rack of deer antlers. Hunting logic would say that the hunter prefers the discounts on the hunting gear the best because if they were outfitted to the tilt in the best hunting gear around the capture of the deer would be almost a certainty.

A seasoned hunter could go into Rambo mode if they were equipped with a huge stash of hats, caps, and facemasks. Whatever animal is being hunted that day would be an easy target if vital body parts of each hunter were hidden from view. Hunters could ward off the chill on cold nights if they were able to purchase camouflage jackets, coats and a variety of parkas. The parkas would make sitting around the fire at the hunting camp a very comfortable chore for all hunters on the trip.

The closeout prices on tree stands would give every hunter in the group a great vantage point. Some hunters might find the prices to be unbelievable if they took time to notice the low prices on blinds shaped like Indian teepees and stylishly colored green like the forest they have chosen to hunt in. Hunters could take advantage of the sale on gloves to keep fingers responsive at all times. The sale on specialty clothing will make sure that the hunters are visible to those hunting along the same parallel lines in surrounding forest areas.

Some hunters would love to own high-end hunting gear and will often jump at the chance to participate in any type of hunting gear sale that includes boats used for hunting waterfowl of any kind. The duck hunters will take advantage of the savings on waders and other types of boots because during regular hunting season the prices for these items can escalate into costly accessories to own and wear. A duck hunter would be very blissful to find a wide selection of duck calls on sale.

Most hunters will consider the discounts on firearms and ammunitions very carefully because outdated equipment could prove deadly while on a hunting expedition. A seasoned hunter will be able to recognize the true bargains among shotgun shells that are packaged loosely. The sale prices on firearms might interfere with lawful requirements and hunters will avoid buying firearms from a dealer who does not possess a license, no matter what sale price is posted on the item.

Most hunting supply shops will offered discounted hunting accessories several times a year. This method of scheduled retailing is simply meant to alleviate excess stock before the start of the next hunting season. Hunters will always buy the hunting gear that they need no matter if the item is on sale, but it is always a good feeling to discover the items that were going to be bought were sold for less because the supply house had put them on sale recently.

James Brown writes about http://www.huntinggearshop.com

How to Consistently Shoot Trophy Bucks

Why do some hunters seem to consistently get trophy bucks and others keep coming back empty handed? Some hunters occasionally experience a bit of luck and are in the right place at the right time. But the key point is that they are not able to do it consistently.

Those hunters who regularly bring home trophies are all year round hunters! As the hunting season finishes for most, it is just re-starting for the serious hunter.

Their activities include pre-season scouting, looking for sheds, checking the previous season's rubs and scrapes, checking for bedding and loafing areas,and walking the area before spring when previous season's trails are still visible.

They are discovering good hunting spots and loafing areas and glassing the agricultural fields. They also get their stands or blinds in place early.

Winter

As winter arrives, in some parts of the country there is still some hunting in January. At this time of the year, the bucks have one focus and that is food. As they have lost condition during the rut, they need to prepare for the winter or risk perishing.

As a hunter, your focus should also be on food by finding the sources of food that the bucks will be targeting.

Sometimes even the big wary bucks will take risks and stay out in daylight to pack the food in before winter. This is a great opportunity to get those nocturnal bucks that have eluded you all season.

If you live in agricultural areas, that may mean focusing on cut corn fields, bean fields, and winter wheat, oat or rye fields.

If you live near the woods, it is important to know what sort of food the deer seek out. Their food preference will vay depending on where they are in the country.

In the North deer shift their home range to their winter range as winter arrives. The winter yarding areas are often dense conifers that provide cone-shape snow deflectors. The dark color foliage also acts as a solar collector and creates a warmer area underneath them.

The deer eat upland cedar, aster, clover, conifers, Hemlock, lowland cedar groves, spruce groves and Balsam fir.

The other activity is post-season scouting. This is the time you can walk all through your hunting areas without worrying about being busted by the deer.

Take your map, aerial photo and compass or GPS and follow all the trails. You should be able to follow them easier if the foliage has been reduced due to winter. You should focus on finding where the bedding and feeding areas were, and their connecting trails.

Look for the buck loafing areas or refuges. You should also look for any sheds that will provide some information on the buck potential in the area, as well as where to focus your efforts next season.

Although it would be easy to put your feet up after the season finishes, if you do this, the serious hunters will be out there gathering important information that will give them a huge advantage over you next season!

Steve Nickson has hunted deer for over 40 years. Learn how you can bag the biggest buck of your life at http://www.deer-hunting-success.com

Making Sure You're Not Lost In The Woods

Every year we read or hear about hunters and fishermen becoming lost in the woods and of the trouble and expense that is taken to find them. No man should go out of sight of camp, in the woods, without a compass, and there is no real need for one with a compass to become lost.

A man doesn't need to be a navigator or a surveyor in order to be able to utilize this instrument. All that he needs is a steady mind and something to give him a positive general direction. Almost any cheap compass will do this, if the carrier will only believe it, and if he has taken the trouble to notice the direction in which he started when he left camp at the beginning of the hunt.

Most hunting camps are on a road, stream or pond that extends for some distance on each side of the camp and it is only necessary to find this road, stream or pond in order to find the camp.

When hunting in strange territory, I usually spend a part of the first day in familiarizing myself with the territory in the immediate vicinity of the place where I am staying. I walk the road, if there is one, for at least a half-mile in each direction from camp, observing any outstanding features which might serve as landmarks.

Getting lost is a state of mind. It is not at all necessary. The true woodsman is never lost, even if he is unable to tell just where the home camp is located. I have been turned around in the woods until I hardly knew what way was up, but I have never been lost because I was at home in the woods and never felt the unnecessary compulsion to be at a house or camp when night came.

There is something about a man's mental make-up which makes him uneasy in unfamiliar surroundings. The casual hunter braves the imaginary dangers of the woods in search of game with the often unconscious object of proving that he is a skilled and successful woodsman. This is only natural and is an ancestral heritage handed down from the time when men lived on what the hunter brought home from the chase.

When one first finds that he is uncertain of his whereabouts in the woods, his first inclination is to speed up and get as far as he can before night with the hope that he is traveling in the right direction or that he will meet another hunter who will set him right. This is about the worst thing he can do. Instead of rushing around aimlessly, probably away from camp, he should sit down, take a rest and smoke his pipe or relax in some other manner. He should take account of the situation

If a man has a compass, he should be able to locate himself in relation to the home base if he has any idea of his travels since leaving it. If the camp is on a road that runs north and south and the hunter left it to hunt on the east side of the road, all that he needs to do in order to return is to travel in a westerly direction until he comes to the road.

The chances are that this road will be the one on which the camp is located and it should be easy to find. It is not necessary to travel in an exactly straight course but merely in a general westerly direction in order to find the road.

Other situations require other solutions, but most problems of this sort can be solved by a little clear thinking. If the lost man has no compass and the sun is not shining, the only thing which he should do is to sit tight and wait for aid to arrive. With these precautions in mind you need never be lost again!

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Tips on Grouse for Hunters and Photographers

The most prized game bird of upland game hunters in the northern belt of states is the ruffed grouse, one of a large family of birds that inhabit North America. In the same family is the pinnated grouse commonly known as the prairie chicken. Other members of the family include the dusky grouse of the west, Franklin's grouse of the Pacific states, the Hudsonian grouse of northern Canada, sharp-tailed grouse of the western plains states and their numerous subspecies.

The grouse is almost impossible to raise in captivity, so its restocking is much more difficult than with other birds. Mother Nature, then, is the grouse's only guide, with man its best friend and protector. Nature takes care of the grouse by constantly varying the cycle of abundance.

When the birds become too crowded in a certain area, she steps in with a disease which all but eliminates the species. Then, for a few years, the number of birds gradually increases again. Most conservation authorities have tried to follow these natural cycles in an effort to keep the birds at a more even level.

Grouse are readily identified by the black and brown-banded fan-shaped tail, the two tufts or ruffs on each side of the neck and the crested head. Both male and female are colored alike. There are two general hues of color, one gray and the other rust-red.

The most interesting time of the year is in the spring, when they are in the mating mood and when they can be seen and photographed while drumming on a log to attract a female. The whirr of their wings can be heard for some distance in the woods, as they vibrate their flight feathers in a terrific dance to impress their mate-to-be. At this time it is possible to approach with the camera for some excellent photos of the courtship.

Their flight when aroused is quick and erratic. They explode from the brush and quite often the gunner or observer is shocked momentarily because of the sudden sound coming from almost beneath his feet. The course of flight from there on out will be one of zig-zags through the leaves and branches as the bird tries to put as much natural cover between himself and you.

No two grouse ever rise in the same way, so there is no characteristic flight to study in order to be a better shot. Hunters who are successful on grouse shoot instinctively. Somehow or other their shotgun barrels seem to point in the right direction, with enough lead to deliver the shot pattern on target. They are even harder to photograph because their course in the air is so unpredictable.

Grouse are best hunted with dogs, preferably a springer spaniel or perhaps an English setter. These dogs should be trained for grouse specifically, since grouse act entirely differently than pheasants or other game birds. A good quail dog is often at a loss, due to a strange and complicated terrain.

The perfect experience is enjoyed with a good dog who is able to locate a grouse on the ground and hold it on point until the hunter moves up to flush it. If the bird is shot, its coloration blends so perfectly with the forest floor that the dog, with his keen sense of smell is relied upon to fetch it.

Grouse usually live to an age of about six years and are able to stand the severe winters of the northern climes. They are smart too, and in recent years boldly hold out in the face of real estate developments and advancing civilization. The key to their survival is food, mostly berries and seeds, and a good supply of unpolluted water. They prefer to live near the hemlock and pine forests where they can dodge their predators and take flight into the thick trees. Near their protective haunts, they must have a generous food supply year-round.

With these pointers in mind, the hunter and photographer alike should enjoy the beauty of the grouse.

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Tricks for Hunting Deer

Deer hunting, an art and a sport, has many tricks which the novice should try to discover as soon as possible. Some of these essential tips and tricks are outlined below.

In the mountain area of the west, the white-tail deer gives way to other species. The former have never learned to make the annual migration that is necessary in a region of heavy snow fall and as a result the mule deer is in possession of the area. In the few localities where the Virginia deer is found, it is necessary to use slightly different hunting methods.

Difficult travel conditions and greater visibility in the more open woods force the successful hunter to use glasses for spotting game at a distance, and long-range guns equipped with telescope sights are needed in order to shoot deer which are often in, or across, ravines where any chance of a close approach would be almost impossible.

Similar conditions exist in the open, near desert country of the southwest where most of the deer will be found in the brush-filled ravines, and cover for successful stalking is almost nonexistent.

I know that the cry of a fawn will call a doe during the summer months, yet I have never heard this call in the hunting season. The fawns are large enough to be on their own at this time and the doe has other things on her mind. I have halted running deer by imitating the cry of a fawn, but I have also stopped them by making other sounds. I have found that if a deer hears any sound that it cannot immediately locate and identify, it will stop and make sure that it is not heading into danger.

I have never used any of the commercial scents to attract deer, but any scent that is based on sexual attraction should be effective if properly prepared and used.

The use of deodorizers to remove or disguise the man scent can do no harm, unless the substance used is something that is repulsive to deer.

I have tried to conceal my odor by adding the odor of deer and I am sure that this practice has aided my hunting at times. I usually add the deer odor by obtaining the glands that are located on the inner side of the back legs of a doe and rubbing these glands on my clothing. The odor from these tufts of hair is strong and distinctive enough to hide the human odor, and, as it is a natural deer odor, it is not offensive to the deer.

While bearing this scent, I have had bucks follow my trail for long distances and nothing except lack of patience prevented me from shooting some of them. I would lay a trail and then I would fail to wait long enough for them to overtake me.

I am sure that it was not just a coincidence that they followed my trail, for on one occasion, a buck followed me across an open field to within two hundred yards of my house before he decided that he was wasting his time. I had waited for him for over an hour and then I had left the stand to go to the house for something to eat. The big disadvantage in making a scent trail, such as this, is that a man can never be sure that a buck will find and follow the trail.

With time and experience, you will add to the information I have outlined above, and become an even more effective deer hunter than you are now.

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How to Plan Your Hunting Trip

The real purpose of any big-game hunting trip is to have an enjoyable and rewarding experience in the great outdoors. In addition, every hunter hopes to climax such an experience by taking a prized game animal. That is the unsurpassed thrill of any hunt.

It is wise to do some thoughtful and early planning. Careful preparation not only assures your own enjoyment, but it is the best guarantee for the success of the hunt and the safety of yourself and your hunting companions.

The Hunting Partner

Perhaps the most important is the wise choice of a hunting partner. Solo hunts, or occasionally taking off into the hills alone to enjoy getting back to nature, are fine experiences. But in big hunting country, where the remaining concentrations of our big-game supply are found, hunting alone is not sensible.

It is far safer, especially when after the larger species of game, to hunt with a partner and it is less laborious to be able to share the necessary heavy chores. But most important, a hunting trip, like any satisfying experience, must be shared with someone to be completely enjoyed.

Unless the partner has been on previous hunts, good questions to ask about him are: How stable a person is he? How does he react to unavoidable inconvenience? How dependable would he be if the chips were down and someone's life depended upon his decisions and courage?

The partner who qualifies in such vital respects, and loves the outdoors, is apt to have the numerous other qualities which will make him a prized companion. And, of course, he has the right to expect the same overall sportsmanship and dependability from you.

Choosing A Hunting Area

The game one wishes to hunt is, of course, a fundamental consideration. No hunter should ever plan a hunt with the simple hope that he will bag anything that jumps up, or that he is "out after everything." Well in advance of his hunt, he should determine what species he wants most, then route the hunt into a region where he is most apt to find that species. Additional species should be regarded as a bonus.

Broadly speaking, the best areas for any game species are those regions where game has been hunted the least. There the biggest trophy heads will be found. Competition with other hunters will be less keen. Danger will be less all the way around. And the game itself, in proportion to the degree it has previously been in contact with man, will be less wary.

Sources of Hunting Information

In choosing a region in which to hunt any game species, one of the hunter's best tools is a good map. Some of the best maps for the purpose are the hunting maps published by the state game departments especially for hunters. These usually are available free by early fall in states having shootable numbers of any game species. The interested hunter may obtain one simply by writing the Fish & Game Department at the capital of the state or province in which he wishes to hunt.

Outfitters and Guides

Some states and provinces require the services of a licensed guide for the nonresident hunter. Such a service is considered by the game commissions to be necessary not only as a measure to prevent game-law violations but, equally important, to keep hunters unfamiliar with the country from becoming lost.

In primitive country, the lost-hunter situation each fall is a serious business. The Forest Service, Fish & Game Departments, mounted posses, and state flying organizations have to donate time, money, and effort to retrieving lost hunters from rugged, remote mountain terrain. Requiring the nonresident hunter to employ a licensed guide or outfitter largely eliminates this problem.

He can lead the hunter to the best trophies. And as part of his services, the guide does much of the prosaic camp work, such as tending horses and pack mules, logging up wood, setting up camp, and lugging things around. This leaves the hunter all his time to hunt and enjoy himself.

Plan your hunting trip well and you will be more successful and enjoy yourself more.

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Magic Ways To Stalk Deer

Thousands of deer hunters head for the woods every hunting season with the avowed intention of bagging a deer. Most of these hunters are indifferent as to how this is accomplished, but the true sportsman likes to know that the kill is the result of his own efforts and that it is not merely the result of an accidental encounter. The highest goal which he can aim for is the unaided stalking and killing of a deer, preferably one that is resting in a bed of its own choosing.

Unfortunately there is no hard and fast rule which the hunter can use in order to locate these resting and bedding places. There is nothing to prevent deer from lying down anywhere they happen to be and they do this very thing during the night after feeding. During the daytime rest period, they seek seclusion where they will be safe from enemies and, to some extent, be protected from the weather.

It is seldom possible to stalk a resting deer by following its track to its bed, for it invariably watches its back trail. The hunter should use his knowledge of the area to which the deer seems to be heading, in order to judge where the animal might be located and then stalk that area or the most promising locations in that area.

Deer seem to be partial to low ridges when choosing bedding grounds and will often use them even when they are near well-traveled roads. Such places are almost impossible to approach from the road without detection by the deer. These locations should be approached from the opposite side, or the stalk should be made along the top of the ridge if wind or other conditions make the former approach undesirable. It is always best to try to approach any bedding area from an unexpected direction.

As a rule, deer do not use the same bedding place day after day. They have many of these places over their range and use one that is near the area where they are feeding. If they stay several days in one part of their range (which is unusual) they might use the same bedding place while in that area. If I should jump a deer from its bed on one day and if the signs indicated that the same deer was in the same section on the following day, that bed would be the first place that I would look for him.

When stalking deer, the most important thing for the stalker to avoid is the possibility of his scent alarming the animal. The only sure way to do this is to face the wind while hunting.

Noise is the next thing which the hunter must avoid if he expects to stalk deer successfully. Some hunters think that noise will alert a deer as quickly as scent, and perhaps they are right; but I am sure in my own mind that deer can identify an odor with more certainty than they can a sound.

The sound of footsteps can be reduced by wearing the proper footwear. It is almost impossible to travel quietly in the woods if shod in hard-soled shoes. Rubber is the quietest practical material for hunting footwear, but the soles should be soft enough so that minor irregularities in the ground may be felt with the foot.

The true woodsman walks with the knees slightly bent so that there is no solid thump when the foot hits the ground. The ball of the foot touches the ground first and the whole foot comes in contact before the weight of the body is transferred from the other foot.

The successful stalking of bedded deer is a task for the expert - the specialist of the hunting fraternity. The novice will have more success in stalking feeding deer. This should not deter the novice, or restrict his stalking activity. He should attempt all types of hunting, for this is the only way that he can improve his ability to the point where he becomes an expert.

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Hunting Deer Effectively

In order to enjoy the sport of deer hunting fully, a hunter needs a thorough understanding of the animal and, to a lesser extent, of the country to be hunted. This knowledge cannot be obtained in one short hunt, but must be acquired by years of hunting, by reading or by listening to other hunters who have this knowledge.

A very successful hunter once told me that deer hunting was ninety percent luck and ten per cent good marksmanship. He had hunted for a good many years and should have known what he was talking about.

'All that a man needs to do to shoot a deer,' he said, 'is to be in the right place at the right time and to be able to hit any deer that he sees.'

This man believed it was luck that placed him at the right place at the right time, but I am sure that the knowledge that he had unconsciously acquired about the habits of the deer in the territory where he hunted had a lot to do in enabling him to shoot most of his deer. While luck certainly plays an important part in deer hunting, the man who depends entirely on it is very apt to be disappointed at the end of the hunt.

The need for hunting knowledge varies with the method used while hunting. It requires little knowledge to shoot a deer in the nighttime with the aid of a light.

This is nothing but butchery of a bewildered defenseless animal. On the other hand, the man who enters the woods armed with a bow and a few arrows, who attempts to outwit an animal in full possession of all its faculties, must have a thorough knowledge of that animal to be successful.

I am not in favor of bow-and-arrow hunting for everyone, for, although the hunting arrow is deadly in the hands of an expert, the average hunter is too unfamiliar with the weapon to make clean kills - a necessary part of good sportsmanship.

A hunting method favored by many is to walk the woods roads and trails as quietly as possible, usually against the wind, with the hope of jumping a deer to shoot. I enjoy this type of hunting in the less heavily populated areas. By traveling quietly while constantly watching for game, a man will see many wilderness sights that will often repay him for the walk even if he fails to bag a deer.

I have killed quite a few deer by using this method and have seen many others that I did not shoot. On two occasions I have seen sleeping deer before they awoke. I permitted one of these to make a successful escape without firing a shot, but I killed the other - a nice eight-point buck - as soon as it started to run. I have always considered that these two hunts were equally successful, although a memory was the only reward for one of them.

One of the most important requirements for this type of hunting is good eyesight. Not necessarily 20-20 vision, but the ability to evaluate the constantly changing scene and to distinguish the difference between shadow and concrete objects. The ability to pick out one of the best camouflage of animals in its natural habitat. This hunting vision is not a thing that we are born with. It must be acquired and cultivated by hunting experience.

Hunting deer is an art as well as a sport, and with the right attitude and skills can be one of the most enjoyable of all. Good hunting!

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Aiming the Bow When Engaging in Archery

The archer has a choice of methods of aiming, or sighting. They may be loosely classified into three groups: direct, indirect or point of aim, and the hunting aim.

The direct, or bow sight method of aiming has in recent years become increasingly popular on the target range and has gradually supplanted the indirect, or point of aim method of aiming.

The hunting aim, generally employed in combination with the high anchor, is favored by field shooters. This method of aiming, erroneously referred to as the instinctive method, is comparable with the wing shot's method of pointing a shot gun when gunning for grouse or other fast flying birds. Neither shooter depends on mechanical sights of any kind. Both keep their eyes fixed on the target, fit the weapon, be it a bow or a shot gun, to the position indicated by this line of vision, and discharge the weapon.

Just as a good grouse shot cannot write out a step by step diagram on how to hit a grouse, neither is there a short course of instruction which will enable the archer to master the hunting aim. The grouse hunter acquires proficiency only through constant and repeated efforts to kill grouse. Note: The expert still misses lots of them. The archer will acquire the ability to judge unknown distances and to deliver an arrow to the mark only through continued practice. Once an archer has acquired this ability, he can draw and release an arrow quicker than by any other method. This is a distinct advantage when game is flushed from hiding by the hunter.

Using the high anchor, the hand is raised along the side of the face, and the head is tilted a bit to the right, to bring the right eye directly over the arrow. The arrow shaft is then lined up with the target. The top of the bow is also canted slightly to the right. Keep both eyes open and focused on the center of the target while shooting. As you draw, indirect vision will permit keeping the arrow in proper alignment.

The scores of target archers have shown consistent improvement since a sight has been adapted to use on the bow. Similar, in principle, to an adjustable rear sight on a rifle, the bow sight can be adjusted for elevation and windage, or horizontal deflection. The sight is affixed to the back of the upper limb of the bow, just above the grip. It permits the target archer to sight directly on the target, instead of using the former method of sighting over the point of the arrow at a point of aim. Since the anchor is a fixed point, raising or lowering the bow sight will incline the shaft of the arrow at an angle with the horizontal, and the trajectory of the arrow will be lowered or raised in relation to the horizon accordingly.

Manufactured bow sights range in price from $1.25 for the simpler type, to $6.00 for a bow sight designed for one of the well-known makes of metal bows. Regardless of the type of bow sight, it is wise to disregard any provisions the manufacturer has made to attach the sight to the bow with screws. A screw, inserted in a wooden or metal bow, creates a weak point. Disregard the screws and bind the sight to the bow with scotch tape. Adhesive tape will also serve well for this purpose. Attaching the sight in this manner, avoids the danger of damaging the fibers of the wooden bow, or creating a plane of weakness in the cross section of the wood or metal bow.

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Small Game Field Shooting

The trail lead through a frost-touched multicolored forest, the oak and maple trees a riot of crimsons, deep reds and browns. A golden autumn haze filled the valleys, and if you listened you could hear quail calling lonesomely for the lost summer. Grant Hartwell and I were walking this ridge trail, as men should be doing each autumn, our minds on deer, light overnight packs on our backs, wholly content with the world.

While deer was the prime objective, a couple of grey squirrels for a stew wouldn't be amiss, or for that matter a blue grouse.

Swinging around a bend we flushed a big old buster of a blue grouse. It angled up through the trees with a frantic beating of wings and perched on an oak limb about thirty yards away, neck outstretched, its nervousness reflected in its constant stepping about as it watched our every move. We remained perfectly quiet for a space of a few moments, knowing that the least untoward movement would touch off our hair triggered game at once. When it quieted down a bit, Grant eased over a few steps toward the huge mossy bole of an oak, rested his forearm against it for the shot.

I waited intently, my pulse surging just as strongly as if he had a big buck under his sights. The silence was shattered by the roar of his .30/30 Model 99 Savage. The grouse tumbled from its lofty perch into the deep mast under the trees, drummed frantically for a moment then lay still. I walked over and picked up our quarry. Its head had been neatly severed by that 170 grain slug, an excellent bit of small game field shooting.

Small game field shooting has problems of positions which merit a lot of study and practice by hunters. Fortunately there is no essential difference between small and large game shooting, and what is learned in the small game fields is directly applicable to big game coverts. Each places emphasis on the time element, practical accuracy and range picture.

Quite often the decision as to shooting position is made by the game itself. A squirrel alerted by your careful stalking, waiting for a tip-off from you before taking to the security of its den tree, has so compressed the time element you have in which to get off the shot, you must take it from the position in which you find yourself more often than not a snapshot off-hand.

When Art Richardson and I were hunting ground squirrel that early June morning, taking them "field run" each shot was governed by the game itself, to a great extent. Squirrels scurrying toward the protection of their burrows had snap shooting written all over them. Those which stood up momentarily to inspect their surroundings had the same urgency in their attitude.

Essentially, there are three basic field shooting positions which are practical, and used for more than ninety-eight per cent of all field shooting. These three positions are: standing, sitting and kneeling. The prone position can sometimes also be used in long range woodchuck sniping and in mountain hunting. But a too slavish use of the prone position tends to deliberateness wholly at odds with field accuracy because of the time element usually interjected by the game itself. Modifications of the three prime field shooting positions: sitting, standing and kneeling, are almost infinite in number.

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South Rainier Elk Herd Management Plan - State of Washington

The South Rainier Elk Herd is one of ten elk herds living in Washington State. This herd's range covers around 1,100 square miles, and is located in parts of Lewis County, Thurston County, and Mount Rainier National Park. The herd area is bounded on the east be the North Cascade Crest Trail. On the west and south, it is bounded by major highways, and on the north, by highways, the Nisqually River and Mt. Rainier National Park. Land ownership in the area is a mix of public and private holdings. The majority of the land is owned by the U.S. Forest Service, which has the administration of around 400 square miles of land, primarily composed of Gifford Pinchot National Forest and the southern boundary of Mt. Rainier National Park. Private holdings are located mostly along the Cowlitz River. There are small tracts of state land in the area. The remainder of the land is held by industrial forestry interests. Elevations within the herd area are between 250 feet and 14,400 feet (the summit of Mt. Rainier). Level and gently rolling terrain is rare, occurring mostly along major drainages such as the Cispus and Cowlitz Rivers. The elk occupy almost all of the herd area below 6,500 feet, except for areas that are extraordinarily steep or rocky.

Humans make extensive use of the area in which the South Rainier Elk Herd is located, mostly for recreational purposes. For instance, the visitor usage of Mt. Rainier National Park was over two million in the 1990s. Hiking, backpacking, skiing, and other recreational activities are common, as well as trapping, fishing, and hunting. These activities occur both in the park and on adjacent lands that are privately owned.

The area along the Cowlitz river has been developed extensively, both for agricultural and residential purposes. This has significantly affected the wintering area of this herd. There has been a significant loss of important winter habitat for these elk, as well as a rise in elk/human conflict. In addition, intensive clear cut logging has changed almost all of the forests not in the bounds of the national park. Originally, this area was made up almost entirely of old growth forest. However, the area is now covered in second and third generation growth reaching to approximately 3,300 feet in elevation, and covering almost all of the elk's winter range.

The greatest influence humans have had on this herd, however,has been through direct elk mortality. The annual regulated hunting harvest removes around forty to sixty percent of all bull elk. The population of the South Rainier Elk Herd has varied widely. For instance, in 1994, there were as many as four thousand individuals in this area. By 1997, that number had fallen to 1,500. It is estimated that the current population of the herd is around 2,100 animals. Management goals for the South Rainier herd include increasing the numbers of elk to a level of about 3,000 animals. In general, elk population levels will be maintained or increased, depending on the area, except in locations where they are causing a lot of damage or having conflict with humans. The current population ratios, when assessed before the hunting season, are fifteen to seventeen bulls per hundred cows, a figure which has stayed steady since 1996, and forty-six to forty-eight calves for every hundred cows.

Harvest strategies for this herd have varied significantly over the past forty years. They have included permission to take any bull, to spike-only bulls with a general permit, and branch antlered bulls taken by special permit. In some cases, only three point bulls or greater have been permitted. The three point minimum rule has been more common in recent years, and is the current method of regulating the elk harvest for the South Rainier Elk Herd. Antler point restrictions normally mean higher bull to cow ratios after the hunting season, but fewer older animals survive. Before 2000, it was legal to harvest antlerless elk during the archery season, or with firearms by special permit. However, antlerless harvest has not recently been permitted.

Current goals for the maintenance and management of this herd include an increase in the estimated elk population, while paying attention to habitat limitations and problems landowners may experience. The maintenance and improvement of elk habitat on U.S. Forest service lands is to be encouraged, and hunting is to be kept to a limit which will allow all herds to reach the state requirement of twelve or more bulls for every hundred cows.

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com/nikonscopes.html

Olympic Elk Herd Management Plan - State of Washington

The Olympic Elk Herd is one of ten that have been identified in the state of Washington. It's located on the Olympic Peninsula, west of Hood Canal, and north of the Chehalis River. This herd, unlike many others, has a similar modern distribution to the one it has held historically. The herd's numbers were the highest in the late 1970s. A conservative estimate put the number of elk in the herd at that time at around 12,000 members. Currently, based on a number of data sources, including telemetry studies, mark-resight surveys, and harvest data, the population is estimated to be at around 8,600.

Much of the land used by elk in this area is publicly owned. There are over 922,000 acres in Olympic National Park. Additionally, the Olympic National Forest lands near the park make up another 643,000 acres. Through the Department of Natural Resources, the State of Washington manages 368,000 acres of forest lands in this area. Another 255,000 acres are part of Indian Reservation lands. The remaining land belongs to private residents, agriculture, and industrial timber companies. The central core of the area is made up of the Olympic Mountains. They are surrounded by very low lowlands nearly level. Strips of lowland vary between two and ten miles wide on the east side, ten to twenty miles wide on the west side, and thirty miles wide along the peninsula's south side.

Human impact on this elk herd has occurred both directly and indirectly. Commercial timber harvesting and management of the forest land afterwards have had the largest impact, opening up areas with abundant forage for elk. Numbers of elk increased, resulting in the highest population during the 1970s. As more intensive management in logged areas has begun recently, the amount of forage available to elk has decreased. Since burning clear cuts has been curtailed, less ideal environments for the development of forage for elk have been created. Instead, timber companies have chosen to spray herbicides, removing plants that are eaten by elk. Road construction for logging activities has also had an impact, as elk avoid roads, and these roads also give more access to legitimate hunters and to poachers.

The biggest source of mortality in the Olympic Elk Herd is harvesting by hunters. The increased availability of roads has encouraged this, as easier travel makes finding animals and transporting them a simpler task. Bigger clearcut areas mean hunters have an easier time seeing animals in the field. Overhunting in the 1980s produced a major decline in the numbers of this animal. The most likely reason for this decline is a large harvest of antlerless elk during the late 1980s and early 1990s. A low reproductive rate, coupled with overharvesting of cows, can cause the population to decline speedily. However, the current numbers are up thirty-four percent from the mid-1990s estimated population of 6,000 elk. This means that recent restrictions on human access to the animals is replenishing their population.

Currently, goals for management of the Olympic Elk Herd include cooperating closely with affected Native American tribes, as well as managers of private and public land. Maintaining adequate elk habitat on lands controlled by these groups is an important part of managing these animals. Additional goals include increasing the combined numbers of elk to at least 11,350 individuals outside of Olympic National Park, maintaining a proportion of twelve bulls to every hundred cows after the hunting season is over, and increasing and improving habitat where it is a limiting factor in achieving the population goals in the management plan.

Since elk can be a nuisance to private landowners, minimization of damage caused by elk is also a concern. Work with landowners to minimize road densities in areas where too much traffic is a problem is planned, as well as work to enhance available elk forage and habitat on private land. Better survey accuracy is also desired, so as to have a more accurate idea of the current elk population. Generally, the management plan calls for the reversal of the Olympic Herd's decline in numbers, in order to ensure that populations in the Olympic Peninsula will be huntable for the foreseeable future.

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com/nikonscopes.html

North Cascade Elk Herd Management Plan - State of Washington

The North Cascade, or Nooksack, Elk Herd, is the smallest of the ten herds living in the State of Washington. It is also the northernmost herd in the western part of Washington. However, despite its size, this herd is of considerable benefit to the citizens of Washington, in both aesthetic and economic arenas. It also provides recreational value, in the form of animals hunted and the opportunity to view wildlife in its natural habitat. The North Cascade herd also is important to Native American tribes in the area, providing subsistence, cultural resources, and ceremonial uses.

This herd was reintroduced into the state, resulting from successfully imported animals placed in the area in 1946 and 1948. The peak population of this herd occurred in 1984, at 1,700 elk. However, a sharp decline has occurred, and now the herd numbers no more than 300 individuals.

The core population of this elk herd in the Nooksack game management unit occupies an area of about 492 square miles (1,230 square km). In addition to this core population, another 125 elk live in agricultural land bordering the Skagit River. These elk mostly live in small, relatively isolated pockets of habitat. Remaining members of the herd live north of the Skagit River, in higher elevation, forested areas, and have been known to cause nuisances and damage to property. Expanding urban development is threatening the continued existence of these elk.

Data collected on the population and growth trends show that this herd has good potential. Although the survey data was limited in the sample size possible, it showed good production of calves. However, these favorable conditions have not been enough, since the herd has remained static at low population levels. Although the hunting season has been closed on this herd, unaccounted mortality may be preventing the population from rising.

Although the habitat changes caused by timber harvesting should have favored growth in the herd's population, increased human access may be resulting in additional deaths. There have been some problems with damage caused by elk on agricultural lands. However, the private lands along the River are important elk habitats, and should be protected and preserved to maintain the population of this herd.

This area is covered mostly by coniferous forest below the timberline. Three major zones of forest exist, depending on elevation and available moisture. They are the western hemlock zone, Pacific silver fir zone, and mountain hemlock zone. The western hemlock zone is the most important in timber production, and is likely to be effected by timber harvesting. Intensive logging, especially the practice of clear-cutting, has compromised the herd's ability to survive in the winter range and breed in the summer range. Heavy road traffic and human disturbance are the largest causes of this. Unfortunately, most of the winter ranges for elk are also within this zone. Some parts of this zone, in the foothills along the southern and western perimeter of the elk's range, are used for agricultural purposes.

The current management plan for the North Cascade Elk Herd calls for increasing the population in the Nooksack unit to around 1,450 animals, with an addition 200 in the Sauk unit. The goal for the entire herd area is around 1,950 individuals. The expansion of this herd into the available range south of the Skagit River, in the Sauk unit, is to be promoted. Both tribal and non-tribal hunting seasons would be able to be reestablished if there are enough animals to support them.

To help decrease mortality from human action, and to help people understand the value of their natural resource, public awareness of elk should be promoted. This includes photographic and viewing opportunities. Damage from elk on private property should be minimized to promote better public opinion of the elk management plan and of the herd.

The plan also calls for management of hunted units to acquires post-season bull ratios that are consistent with the state guidelines. These call for more than twelve bulls for each hundred cows. Mortality rates for bulls are to be less than fifty percent. To help preserve an adequate population, the forest service, state, and private lands should all be encouraged to maintain or increase their current capacities for providing elk habitat. Critical areas used by elk should be preserved and enhanced when possible.

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com/nikonscopes.html

North Ranier Elk Herd Management Plan - State of Washington

The North Ranier Elk Herd is one of ten within Washington State. It is located north of Mt. Ranier, in a range that includes King and Pierce counties. The majority of this herd's members are location on the western slopes of the Cascade Range. However, there are also small populations located in pockets of habitat near suburban developments and cities, as well as in the foothills. This elk herd is of value both to the general population of Washington State as an aesthetic, recreational, and economic resource, and as a cultural, subsistence and ceremonial one to the area's native people. In 1989, this herd numbered around 3,400 elk. It has recent declined to around 1,845 elk, a decline of forty-six percent. Current management objectives for elk population of this herd include an increase of herd size to around 2,800 elk.

The range of the North Ranier Elk Herd encompasses an area of about 2,834 square miles (7,341 km). The herd occupies the headwaters of both the Clearwater and White rivers in the north part of Mount Ranier National Park, as well as the greater Puyallup River drainage in the western part of that park. Land in the area is a mix of private, federal, and state ownership. The largest portion of the area belongs to the U.S. Forest Service, but there are also large parcels owned by industrial timber companies. Most lands, including federally and state owned land, are managed to produce timber. Forest Service lands are managed for a number of different uses, including recreation and wildlife, in addition to timber. There is an emphasis on management and growth of old growth forests in the Forest Service lands at this time.

Generally, this area consists of low to mid-level mountains, as well as forested terrain. Steep, difficult to access parts of the elk herd's range include higher, snow covered elevations along the Cascade Crest. Elevations are between four hundred feet and 14,000 feet (the summit of Mt. Ranier). Elk occupy most of this range, up to nearly 7,500 feet, in alpine and sub-alpine meadows of the national park area during summer and fall. Most of the area belove timberline is covered in coniferous forest.

Originally, the herd area was made up of unbroken mature forest, with a large scale fire occurring about every four hundred years. Clear cut timber operations have greatly changed almost all the forests outside Mt. Ranier National Park, making the area a patchwork of young and recently clear cut forest. This has affected the distribution and numbers of the North Ranier elk herd.

Currently, the most elk in this herd live in the White River unit. This particular sub herd migrates between the high alpine meadows of Mt. Rainier National Park and their winter range in the north. The major migration routes include Buck Creek, Haller Pass, the West Fork White River, and Huckleberry Creek. Between fifteen and thirty percent of elk do not migrate.

Current management plans intend to make little to no change in the distribution of this herd. Commercial and recreational timberland allow for growth in population, and elk near urban and suburban development will probably continue to decline. Elk-human conflict in these areas is expected to increase, meaning that there will be more nuisance complaints and concerns about damage caused by the animals.

Plans for the management of the North Rainier Elk Herd include better data collection to improve over all management, general increase in numbers, and providing opportunities for hunters without causing numbers to decline. Post hunting season numbers should exceed a ratio of twelve bulls for every hundred cows. Local hunting of black bear and cougar is intended to be coordinated to maintain the elk population appropriately, as the numbers of these predators have increased in recent years. In addition, cooperation with local tribes is planned, in order to help implement the conservation and management of these animals. In areas where elk expansion is desirable, partnerships are to be developed in order to increase the amount, availability, and quality of elk habitat.

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com/nikonscopes.html

Setting Up Your Own Hunting Camp

The first thing to do before setting up any hunting camp is to ascertain whether camping is permitted. Most camps for hunting big game will be located on public lands such as the National Forests where camping is generally open to the public.

WATER AND WOOD

The two basic necessities for any big-game camp are a suitable supply of water and ample firewood. In the habitat of the larger species of big game, the water problem tends to solve itself. Moose, elk, caribou, and grizzly country is normally watershed country where rivers and lakes are born.

In such country there is usually ample fresh water. Moreover, the water found in high mountainous country has not been contaminated with sewage and pollution and is safe and pure. Higher country is largely wooded country, and the problem of firewood is easily solved. Most of the wood there will be pine, fir, spruce, and aspen.

SELECTING A CAMPSITE

Choose a campsite close to the water supply and as close as possible to dry wood. The sandy beaches or shore lines of mountain lakes, so long as they are well above waterline, often make good campsites. So do the points of small promontories overlooking a creek or lake. The edge areas where timber meets meadow, small elevated river bars, or small humps of semi-open land near timber are suitable campsites if water is handy.

In each instance, camp should be set up on some kind of elevated ground. This insures that the earth will be comparatively dry, and that sudden storms won't drown out a camp by draining water under it. For this reason, it is never wise to camp in gully bottoms, however attractive they seem to be. Flash floods in mountain and desert country can suddenly send awesome amounts of water through such gullies.

PITCHING CAMP

Once having chosen the campsite, the first thing to do is unload the pack animals, if you are packing into a hunting camp. It is a cardinal sin to allow any pack animal to remain loaded for even a few minutes once it has reached its destination.

The next thing to do is to get a tent set up. In the mountains, storms come up out of nowhere and can saturate people and gear in minutes unless dry storage space is provided.

Miner's tents are pegged down at all four corners and their tops tied to the crosses of two shear poles (dry standing jackpines or large willows make good shear poles), and the poles stood erect.

A baker tent is pegged down at the rear; the flap for its open front is placed over a ridgepole set upon two sets of shear poles, stretched taut and tied. Often one end of the ridgepole can be attached to a standing tree. This eliminates any need of guy ropes to keep the shear poles from wobbling sidewise.

GARBAGE PIT AND LATRINE

A garbage pit and some form of latrine are necessary for sanitation. Both should be downwind and downstream of the camp, the latrine the farthest away, in a clump of trees if possible.

The garbage pit is simply a hole dug in the ground. Tin cans, empty bottles, vegetable peelings, and food scraps are all heaved into the pit. A thin layer of dirt spread on top each day over the accumulated refuse is the best guarantee against flies around camp. When camp is broken, the entire pit is filled and covered.

Camp latrines are of different kinds, depending upon the permanence of the camp and the availability of transportation. The simplest is a long smooth pole, anchored at toilet-seat height between two trees, with its middle over a dug hole in the earth.

With experience you will be able to set up your camp quickly and efficiently.

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Hunting and Capturing Puddle Ducks

Due to its broad distribution along boat coasts and throughout the inland lakes and marshes, the mallard or "greenhead" is the most sought after of our waterfowl. It is the prettiest in the minds of some, since it has been the most common subject of painters and wildlife artists. Mallard decorations and miniature decoys grace many a sportsman's library or den.

Only the shoveller and the woodduck vie for or possibly surpass his beauty. The drake has a blue-green iridescent head and neck, ringed at the base by a narrow white band. The blue-purple patch banded with white on the first section of the wing and his yellow legs mark him unmistakably. Many hunters call him "yellowlegs." The female is speckled with various shades of brown, but she also wears the blue-purple patches on the wings.

The mallard offers one of the best opportunities to break in on the study of waterfowl. You find them in most city parks the year round. You'll also find the domesticated variety on the farm. Commercial shooting preserves stock him for this type of pass shooting.

Many of the species do not migrate, preferring to stay in one place unless molested by predators, pollution, over-hunting or extremely bad weather. Since all ducks are migratory, numbers of mallards in company with black duck, widgeon, teal, pintail, and others, take off for the south for the winter and travel as far as Central America. In the spring they go as far north as Alaska and Newfoundland, following established migrating routes. These routes have been discovered by the extensive method of leg banding, a research that has been going on now for about fifty years.

The mallard, like all puddle ducks, rises quickly from the water in one frantic bound. It does not need to take off on a long runway of water as do its cousins, the diving ducks. While it rises off the water with a terrific flourish, it does not seem to be a fast flier in comparison with the teal, but does offer quite a sight to the naturalist or camera man and much more so to the gunner who tries to lead it correctly with the shotgun.

Mallards decoy readily to artificial replicas set out in the corner of a pond or near the rushes where they would come in to feed at dusk or dawn. One of the best ways to study these birds is to decoy them in this manner, having built a blind of natural grasses. Get to know a duck hunter and accompany him on his trip to the duck blind. Bring your camera along to record the birds as they bounce from the air, light on the water, or, sensing danger quickly change pace and direction to fly away almost before you have had the time to take your pictures.

Pass shooting, that is, lying in wait for the birds to pass a given location, is another way of shooting them with camera or gun. When their route is known from their lake site to their feeding site, the area in between makes a good position to wait for them to pass overhead.

Jump shooting can also be done by silently gliding in a canoe or row boat down a winding river where the ducks are known to live and feed. Coming upon them suddenly will offer ample opportunities to see them in action.

Mallards vary in weight from a pound to three or four pounds depending on the condition and location and are among the best of ducks as a table staple. As none of the puddle ducks eat fish, they do not have a fishy taste. Their diet is mostly roots and shoots of aquatic plants, grain, nuts and seeds. The mallard feeds by ducking his head underwater to grope for these aquatic plants and shoots of grass. On land, "Mr. Mallard" is fond of grains, particularly corn and rice.

Now you have these tips, you may enjoy the puddle duck on the table or through the camera.

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Colockum Elk Herd Management Plan

The fifth largest in Washington State, the Colockum Elk Herd is an important resource for the state. It provides a number of benefits, from cultural and aesthetic to recreational and economic, to a wide range of people, including recreationists like photographers and hunters, local communities, and Native American tribes. Maintaining this herd at a healthy population that does not interfere unduly with human activities, but can sustain itself, is an important service to the people of Washington State.

The Colockum Elk Herd is managed under a five year plan that has three primary goals. The first of these goals is the protection and perpetuation of the elk and of their habitats, with the intent of creating a healthy, productive population of animals for the enjoyment and betterment of Washington State. The second is the management of elk for a number of purposes, including educational and aesthetic purposes, recreational purposes including elk viewing, hunting, and photography, scientific study of these animals, and ceremonial and cultural uses by Native Americans. The third major goal of the current elk management program is to maintain the elk herd to produce a sustainable yield.

The management plan has identified specific management strategies and objectives toward the implementation of these goals. Some of these objectives are as follows:

The maintenance of the elk population at an objective of 4,500 animals. This number is permitted to fluctuate by plus or minus fiver percent in the surveyed portion of the winter range. Included in this goal is assessing the habitat limitations for this herd, as well as the long term social tolerances. Depending on the results of these assessments, the population objective should be adjusted accordingly.

In addition, the post-season elk population should be maintained at specific ratios within the surveyed area of the Colockum Herd, in accordance with the objectives of the Game Management Plan. These objectives currently stand at twelve to twenty bulls to each hundred cows. Two to ten percent of the subpopulation of bulls should be made up of mature animals. Total bull mortality, including hunting and natural causes, should be less than fifty percent of the total bull population.

It is also important for the habitat quality of elk to be improved in general, and disturbance to the herd minimized. This is especially vital during critical periods during the year, such as calving, and other times when the population could be upset by human disturbance.

Landowner support for a good elk management program is likewise important. Because of this, the plan includes provisions for minimizing the damage to private lands caused by elk, hopefully minimizing complaints by landowners and improving their opinion of the Coluckum elk management strategy.

Public awareness of the elk herd will help residents of the state to understand the important and beautiful natural resource that it represents. Elk viewing opportunities and the chance to photograph these animals are to be developed where and when possible.

The plan also includes the goal of working cooperatively with the Yakama Nation in regards to the collection and sharing of data pertaining to the herd. This will help ensure that both parties have accurate information about the Colockum Elk Herd, and can manage the animals and their environment accordingly.

On state and federal lands, as well as on private ones, elk habitat should be improved and protected. The management plan for this heard includes provisions for working with the managers of public land to do so, including the DNR, WDFW, and USFS. Private land managers should not be excluded from this cooperative attempt to improve the living situation of the herd, and should be encouraged to protect habitat on their own land.

Research to provide the appropriate data for management of the elk and their habitat should not be forgotten. This research can be used where needed to help provide the information needed to assess goals and practices and revise them where needed.

While spending priorities for the management of this herd have been identified and created for the duration of the plan, the spending is not guaranteed. The availability of funds and the creation of necessary partnerships are required for the plan to succeed fully. Management of elk as a natural resource is important if they are to continue providing their benefits to the people of Washington State.

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com/leupoldscopes.html

Choosing The Perfect Recurve Bow For You

The recurve bow is the exclusive bow of the Olympics. The recurve name seems to come from the fact that the bow curves back out back again (or recurves). When the bow is strung, the string touches a section of the bow. The second curve goes against the natural curve of the bow and this gives the recurve bow greater energy. This extra energy due to the curve allows for a recurve bow to give more energy than a simple bow of the same length. This comes in handy for archers who can benefit from traveling with a bow that is not quite so difficult to carry through brush or some other conditions where length could be more of a problem.

The recurve bow can range in length from 48 inches to 70 inches. A typical target bow is around 66 inches long. For the sake of stability it is recommended that your recurve bow not be less than 58 inches. Choosing a bow length depends a lot on your draw length. If your draw length is less than 28 inches, you should choose a bow that is between 62 and 66 inches and if your draw length is more than 28 inches, get a bow that is between 66 inches and 70 inches.

Well that is great to know, you say. But how can I figure out my draw length? The easiest way is to measure the length of your arm span and divide that number by 2.5. Get a friend to help you. Spread out your arms, palms facing forward. Do not reach out by stretching but just hold out your arms and turn your palms so that they are facing forward. Have your friend measure from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other middle finger. Now divide by 2.5. The result is your draw length.

There are a couple of hints to help you know that you are right in your measurement. The length of your arm span is about the same as your height. If you are 5 foot 6 inches (or 66 inches) tall than your arm span will be about the same. If this is your arm span, then your draw length is 66 divided by 2.5 or 26.4. When you go to buy a recurve bow, you can double check on whether the size of the recurve bow is right for you. The people in the archery store would have a good idea if you have measured your arm span correctly.

Experienced archers know that there is only one place for discounted new and used recurve bows online:

http://archeryarmory.info/recurve-bow.html
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Blue Mountain Elk Herd Management - State of Washington

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The Blue Mountains Elk Herd is one of the ten herds that have been identified in the state of Washington. Population of this herd was at its highest during the late 1970s, when the herd consisted of around 6,500 elk. In the late 1980s, herd population began to decline, due to a number of factors, and the estimated population in 1999 was no more than 4,500. As the herd provides economic, recreational, cultural and aesthetic benefits to the state and to its residents, the decline in elk population is a concern. In order to remedy this problem, herd surveys have been performed to determine the rate of breeding productivity, as well as the survival rate of calves, and to map trends in population.

Generally, over the period surveyed, the ratio of cows to calves in the Blue Mountains Elk Herd has declined. The historical ratio was around thirty-eight to forty-five calves to each one hundred cows. In recent years, however, only sixteen to twenty-five calves to each one hundred cows have been found. In addition to the cow:calf ratios, the cow to bull ratio also dropped significantly, beginning in the 1980s. Because of this problem, a strategy was implemented in 1989 to prevent over harvesting of bulls. The general season was restricted to young, spike bulls, and branch antlered bulls, the older ones, could be taken only with a permit.

The spike-only rule improved bull ratios significantly in just two years. While rate of pregnancy, peak conception date, and ratios of calves to cows in the early summer have improved (the rate now being more than fifty calves for each one hundred cows), the actual rate of calf survival remains low. The population of the Blue Mountains Elk Herd is below its objective level of 5,600 individuals. It is clear that additional management is required to establish the future of the Blue Mountains herd.

The current proposed plan for this herd's management intends to provide direction for a period of five years. It's important that all management plans be evaluated, updated and amended before the term expires, so that their effectiveness can be gauged, and the plans extended for additional periods if this is appropriate. Management plans act as valuable guidelines and reference documents for a variety of people, including the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, or WDFW, landowners in the area, agency cooperators, native tribes, and the general public. Since they are only plans, however, management activities, even those that are a priority, must be carried out as resources and funding are made available for them.

The management plan for the Blue Mountains Elk Herd has three main goals. The first is the management of the elk herd to produce a sustainable yield. The second is managing elk for a number of different educational, aesthetic, and recreational purposes. These purposes include scientific study, viewing and photography of wildlife by the general public, hunting, and cultural and ceremonial uses by Native Americans in the state. The third goal of the management plan is the preservation and protection of elk and their natural habitat to ensure productive, healthy populations of these animals.

While some feel that elk management plans are dangerous to the animals, and other consider them a problem for hunters, as they restrict the animals available to be taken, a balance between the welfare of the animals and the welfare of the humans around them is sought. In the current plan, recreational hunting opportunities are provided for. However, it's required for them to be consistent with the overall management objectives for the entire herd, and the specific survival targets for bull elk to prevent further herd decline. Control of elk poaching, and management of the recreational harvest of cougar and black bear in correlation with the objectives for the management of the Blue Mountains Elk Herd are also important to keep numbers up.

Another area that the management plan seeks to address is public awareness. It's important for the general population to be aware of their elk herds and to visit them to see the majesty and beauty of these animals. Promotion of viewing and photography opportunities allows residents of the state of Washington to become familiar with the animals in their state. It's important to encourage private landowners to improve the elk habitats on their properties as well, so that the Blue Mountains herd does not become one that survives only in federal or state-owned habitats.

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com.
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Hunting In All Seasons

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There are enough areas in the United States that have the animal resources capable of supporting hunting during all seasons of the year. While the hunter might not like the choices of game, they might consider hunting something totally foreign to them to be a nice change of pace. Most hunters like to hunt because they enjoy the thrill of tracking, and other hunters prefer to hunt to provide a different variety of meat for their dinner table.

Some hunters prefer to hunt in their local forests. They might have grown up hunting and know where the hunting trails are and how to track the animals that use them on a regular basis. Word of mouth between hunters in a small town will keep everybody hunting on the same page, and allow them to enjoy hunting in all seasons of the year because some hunter always has helpful information about the fair game that season.

Some hunters join together in their hunting efforts and set up hunting lodges so that they have a warm place to renew themselves during the winter months. During the winter, they might choose to hunt along mountain streams where animals have no other availabilities for access to drinking water because of the level of snow on the ground. The winter coats on the animals might make them hard to spot but from the word of mouth from friends who use the lodge they know just which area to prop up a blind and hunt for a while.

Many hunters that study the animals that they hunt throughout the year will know in advance which animals such as Axis deer have a low tolerance for cold weather and rarely venture out of the warm places that they find to set up a den. The hunters like to hunter these types of breeds because it is more a challenge to them.

There are some animals that hunters shy away from completely no matter which hunting season they have chosen to hunt in. Due to their love of the sport of hunting and ensuring the survival of a certain species of deer, many hunters make it a common practice not to hunt a doe, no matter what time of the year that it is open season for them to do so. Does are typically smaller than bucks and this helps to keep accidental shootings down to a bare minimum.

An Axis doe does not have antlers so hunters know which Axis deer to pursue by the size and size of their antlers. Other animals are not so lucky and it is still quite possible for a hunter to make a mistake while they are hunting and some shoot a doe because they are unsure of the animal that rushed in front of them on a dark trail in the middle of the night.

James Brown writes about http://www.huntinggearshop.com
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Your Hunting Questions Answered

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Hunting is an avid pastime enjoyed all over the world. Once it was used as a means of providing the family with fresh meat but has since become more of a sport than anything else. There are some groups that are vehemently opposed to hunting, stating cruelty to animals. In some parts of the world, overcrowding and a lack of food causes greater cruelty by starvation.

Man has hunted since the beginnings of time and will continue to do so. Whether or not you are opposed to hunting, it remains an avid sport for many people that enjoy nature and the predatory skills honed by hunting. If you are a beginning hunter, or are interested in learning some of the general basics of the sport, this article will cover some of the particular when it comes to hunting.

Do I have to have a license?

In most cases, yes you must have a hunting license. Each hunting license is specific to the type of game you are going after. You cannot go duck hunting if you only have a deer hunting permit. The end result will be a very heavy fine.

There are some exceptions to having a license. Some states have annual days that are allotted for people to be able to hunt without having a license. Please make sure and check to find out when these "free" days are.

Also, most states require a hunter's education course in order to buy a license. The courses not only teach you gun safety but also give you some education on how to hunt. These courses can make the difference between life and death.

The Department of the Interior is the one that is responsible for the overall regulation of all individual states Department of Natural Resource or U.S. Game and Fish Department both of which regulate hunting seasons and hunting licenses.

There are some sports that have a limit on the number of license that can be purchased in a particular season. The reason for this is to protect the numbers of animal bagged and also apply to fishing as well.

What material is covered during hunter education classes?

Hunter education classes cover topics ranging from the different hunting seasons on to first-aid. They also teach rudimentary gun safety and what type of clothing is needed for each season.

Some classes can instruct students on how to field dress or track an injured animal. Typically hunter education classes are offered to middle school children before they reach the age of being able to hunt by themselves or with an adult. Safety is the most important aspect of these classes.

What are game seasons?

Game seasons are the weeks of a year that a certain animal is allowed to be hunted. Most game seasons have a limited number of kills that are allowed and this limit can also vary by type.

Duck hunting is a sport in which you not only have to have the prowess to shoot and kill a duck, but you must also identify the duck before shooting. Game seasons have strict rules on bagging and tagging the animal so it is imperative to know your prey before you journey out into the field, marshland or woods.

What laws are associated with hunting?

There are numerous laws associated with hunting. The first is the requirement is a hunting license. Other laws include what time of year the season begins, when it ends and what the limitations on killing game are.

Remember: it is important to know your state's laws or the state laws in which you will be hunting. Failure to read the rules will not help you if you are caught by a Fish and Game officer.

Should I mount my trophy?

Most hunters elect to mount trophies from their kills that they are proud of. Most often you will see bucks (male deer) that sport many points on their racks. Points on a buck are the little horns that branch off from the main set of horns rising from their skull.

Whether or not you elect to mount a trophy kill is completely up to you. You do have to decide rather quickly and the expense can be quite a lot not to mention the amount of time you will have to wait to have the trophy returned to you.

Educate yourself further about hunting from Mike Selvon articles portal at http://hunting.niche-educator.com/. Your feedback is valued and appreciated at our deer hunting blog at http://www.mynicheportal.com/recreation-leisure/ where a free audio gift awaits you.
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The Thrill Of Whitetail Deer Hunting

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One reason that whitetail deer hunting can prove to be so difficult is the fact that the does are extremely careful about keeping their offspring hidden from predators. This results in the deer, even in maturity, being quite shy, nervous and overly cautious.

Some hunters even claim that white tailed deer have ESP. As the story goes, the hunter was in the woods with the animal all around him. While some of the animal remained totally at ease and seemingly unaware of the hunter's presence, others started to get very nervous and left the area for no apparent reason.

The reasoning is that the deer were fine until the hunter started concentrating on killing. Some liken it to the feeling you sometimes get when you just know someone is watching you. Their advice pertaining is to try to stay relaxed so that the animal will not sense your excitement or presence.

Defining the whitetail deer's habitat is difficult because these animals are highly adaptable. This makes it possible for them to thrive everywhere from swamps, deserts and plains to mountain ranges. One of the reasons deer hunting has become more popular is that they have no problem living near towns and cities either, oftentimes becoming pests and hazards to their co-inhabitants, humans.

What would you consider successful whitetail deer hunting? Many say just getting out in the woods makes for a good hunt. Putting themselves amid many different types of animals, sort of acting out the man versus beast scenario. Of course, actually seeing the animal adds much to the experience and occasion. And, naturally, taking a deer is the peak moment of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Have you ever found yourself in the position of defending hunting? If you are like most hunters, that answer would have to be yes. It is a controversial topic and there is little you can do to sway the opinion of the non-hunter in your direction. When it comes to defending deer hunting, try to be sincere and actually put your heart into it just as you do during the actual hunts.

One thing that non-hunters have a hard time with is when the hunter kills for sport and get a thrill out of doing so. It is one thing to hunt for food, yet quite another to kill for a set of antlers. For example, some non-hunters have been told that "trophy hunters" do not use the meat from their kills, which you know to be untrue.

Perhaps educate them a little by showing them that wildlife populations have increased across the US, partly due to the fact that hunters are footing the bill through many different hunting funds. Try not to talk down to someone who has never experienced the thrill of finally seeing a big buck while whitetail deer hunting.

Maybe the most important thing is to know when to quit. Sometimes if dealing with tightly closed minds that can't or won't concede that they may have been wrong, you are better off agreeing to disagree.

Educate yourself further about whitetail deer hunting from Mike Selvon articles portal at http://hunting.niche-educator.com/. Your feedback is valued and appreciated at our deer hunting blog at http://www.mynicheportal.com/recreation-leisure/ where a free audio gift awaits you.
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Hunting Fishing Is A Great Way To Get Healthy

MIKE SELVON offers the following royalty-free article for you to publish online or in print.
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Article Title: Hunting Fishing Is A Great Way To Get Healthy
Author: MIKE SELVON
Category: Hunting
Word Count: 448
Keywords: hunting, hunting fishing, use hunting fishing to get healthy
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Ready to push yourself back from the desk and start enjoying the great outdoors again? Reclaim your former outdoor hobbies of hunting fishing and other outdoor interests that require physical activity. It's a great way to get yourself back into shape and get out of the house.

Also, you can use these activities as a way to be alone with your spouse or your children and rediscover the fine art of conversation and conservation, without the outside interruptions of television, video games or a new text message that just came in on your teen's cell phone.

One of the first things you need to address before you go trekking out into the bush, is whether or not you're physically up to the challenge of hunting fishing activities. You may have to spend hours in the forest or brush, in a boat or hiking to find those perfect hunting and fishing spots. Getting a physical regularly is a good idea anyway, but make sure that you tell your doctor the types of activities you plan on doing and get the green light on your health before you hit the great outdoors.

Along with getting your physical health checked, you need to make sure to remember the safety basics for hunting fishing outdoor recreational activities. First of all, if you're going to indulge in any of these pastimes, tell at least one other person where you are going and leave a map of the route you plan to take to your favorite fishing hole, place to hunt whitetail deer or hiking trail. It's important because if you encounter a difficult situation and you are unable to call for help, then others will know the routes to take to find you.

For your expedition, make sure that you are well-versed in the basics of gun safety. As well, it's imperative to wear an orange reflective vest during deer hunting season so that you will not be mistaken for big game. Using a turkey call is a good way to let other hunters know you're in the area too. Because the deer herd actually considers the call of a turkey to be calming, this won't give away your location or cause the deer to run. Just remember that when engaging in such a sport, being visible to other hunters will avoid a tragic accident.

Reconnecting with your family is a great aspect of enjoying outdoor recreational activities. Whether it's hunting fishing or taking the family for a hike through a "not often traveled" trail, it's great to get away from the stresses of life and enjoy the simple pleasures that don't involve cell phones, laptop computers or text messages, at least for a weekend.

Educate yourself further about hunting fishing from Mike Selvon articles portal at http://hunting.niche-educator.com/. Your feedback is valued and appreciated at our deer hunting blog at http://www.mynicheportal.com/recreation-leisure/ where a free audio gift awaits you.
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Washington State Elk Herd Management - The Mount St. Helens Elk Herd Plan

Scott Peters offers the following royalty-free article for you to publish online or in print.
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Article Title: Washington State Elk Herd Management - The Mount St. Helens Elk Herd Plan
Author: Scott Peters
Category: Hunting, Pets and Animals
Word Count: 513
Keywords: elk, management, washington, hunting
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The following was prepared by Patrick J. Miller and Scott M. McCorquodale, Ph.D. for the State of Washington:

The Mount St. Helens Elk Herd is one of ten herds identified in the state. It is one of the most important elk herds in the state as it provides significant recreational, aesthetic, and economic benefit to the citizens of Washington.

The purpose of this document is to provide direction for the management of the Mount St. Helens elk resource into the future. This is a 5-year plan subject to amendment. Before the fifth year this plan should be updated, re-evaluated, amended, and implemented for another 5-year period. The plan will serve as a valuable reference document and guideline for the Department, agency cooperators, landowners, tribes, and the general public. Priority management activities can be implemented as funding and other resources become available.

The three primary goals of the Mount St. Helens Elk Herd Plan are: (1) to preserve, protect, perpetuate, manage, and enhance elk habitat to ensure healthy productive populations; (2) to manage elk for a variety of recreational, educational, and aesthetic purposes, including hunting, scientific study, and photography; and (3) to manage harvest of the elk herd for a sustained yield.

Specific elk herd and habitat objectives, problems, and strategies are identified in the Plan. These are priority objectives identified to address specific problems in elk management. To accomplish each objective, a variety of strategies have been proposed. The following objectives have been identified:

1. Manage the Mount St. Helens Elk Herd using the best available science.

2. Manage all open-entry elk units for post-hunting season bull ratios consistent with the Game Management Plan (12 to 20 bulls per 100 cows) in conjunction with overall bull mortality rates less than 50%. Manage quality GMUs for minimum post-hunting season bull:cow ratios at approximately 20 bulls per 100 cows, in conjunction with overall bull mortality rates of less than 40%.

3. Manage the Mount Saint Helens elk population in balance with both the habitat and cultural carrying capacities of the region. The current population goal for achieving this balance is approximately 10,000 elk. Population adjustment will be made over the next 5-8 years, beginning in 2007.

4. Minimize human conflicts and property damage caused by elk.

5. Support public appreciation of the elk resource and non-consumptive values of elk including viewing and photographic opportunities.

6. Continue to monitor the health and winter survival of elk wintering in GMU 522 (LooWitt) and the Mount St. Helens Wildlife Area.

7. Improve the quantity and quality of elk habitat on the Mount St. Helen Wildlife Area.

8. Maintain the current level of elk winter range along the Lewis River.

9. Work with other agencies and private landowners to improve habitats for elk.

Spending priorities have been identified for the next 5 years.

The recommended annual priority expenditures for the Mount St. Helens elk herd are as follows:

Priority Expenditure 1st Year 5 Years
Aerial elk surveys $25,000.00 $185,000.00
Habitat improvement $30,000.00 $125,000.00
Elk survival study N/A $200,000.00
Quantify elk forage condition $40,000.00 $120,000.00
Monitor elk body condition N/A $40,000.00
Monitor annual harvest $12,000.00 $60,000.00
TOTAL $147,000.00 $780,000.00

Scott Peters is an avid deer hunter, outdoorsman and rifle scope retailer. For more information on scopes please go to http://www.theriflescopestore.com.
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