If your idea of paradise is living in a small mountain town, then check out the western U.S. Utah, Colorado, Oregon and Wyoming have some of the best towns with plenty of recreational opportunities such as skiing, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, camping, hunting and kayaking. Local flavor and culture and surreal surroundings made mountain living a dream come true for true lovers of the outdoors.
Jackson, Wyoming
Jackson has to be at the top of any mountain lover's list. The Teton Mountains rise to the west with Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park only a short drive away. The National Elk Refuge, just north of town, provides a venue for wildlife viewing. The town has three alpine ski areas and the Snake River offers opportunity for kayaking and fishing. A laid back atmosphere mixed with great shopping and friendly locals make Jackson a great place to live.
Crested Butte, Colorado
Settled up next to the Gunnison National Forest and West Elk Mountains, Crested Butte is the birthplace of mountain biking, although that's just one available activity. It is often considered "The Last Great Colorado Ski Town" with fly-fishing and hiking popular in the warmer months. Downtown Crested Butte has a farmer's market every Sunday in the summer and fall with musical entertainment and dance year-round. Crested Butte is ideal if you want to escape the glitz and glamour of Vail or Aspen.
Moab, Utah
Mountain biking makes Moab a truly outstanding destination. Every year, hardcore mountain bike enthusiasts flock to Moab to ride on the Porcupine Rim and the Slickrock Trail. The La Sal Mountains and two national parks, including the Arches National Park, offer an alternative to the desert. Other recreation includes rafting, hiking and trail running. The town has a wide array of shops and restaurants.
Bend, Oregon
Cascade Mountains and high desert make Bend in central Oregon a terrific place. A year-round trail network allows for trail running and mountain biking. You can find local clubs that meet weekly for training. Fun and entertaining nightlife can be found downtown with a variety of local breweries and martini bars.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
Early October Whitetail Hunting Strategies
Overview
Early October can be a great time to hunt whitetails, but it can also be very tough. Many bow hunters use this time as an opportunity to sneak in and tag a mature buck before the rut kicks in. It can be difficult to pattern the bucks during this time, so use these strategies to tip the odds into your favor.
Tag a Doe
If you are having a hard time patterning the bucks during October, harvest a doe and inspect her stomach to determine where she has been feeding. Depending on what you find, focus your efforts and stand placement around that area. Move farther into the woods if they are feeding more on browse and mast inside the timber. If you find out what the does are eating, you will find the bucks.
Gather Their Curiosity
In early October, deer have not been pressured by hunters in the rifle seasons and will be more curious than later in the season. Use this to your advantage by placing a turkey decoy or deer decoy on a well-used deer trail. When an approaching deer sees the decoy, they may spend long enough inspecting the decoy that it will allow you to setup for a shot.
Move Stands Frequently
Use this time to move into multiple stands and take an inventory of the deer in different areas. Be careful how you approach the stands, and always remain scent-free. Watch the game trails and how the deer travel on them to determine if you need to move your stand placement.
Bump and Setup
Pack your climber on your back and head into your hunting area as quietly as possible. Slowly move into a bedding area, and when you bump a mature buck out of his bed, quickly analyze the surrounding trees and climb into the tree and get set up. The buck will take his time but will eventually work around in a big circle back into the bedding area.
Early October can be a great time to hunt whitetails, but it can also be very tough. Many bow hunters use this time as an opportunity to sneak in and tag a mature buck before the rut kicks in. It can be difficult to pattern the bucks during this time, so use these strategies to tip the odds into your favor.
Tag a Doe
If you are having a hard time patterning the bucks during October, harvest a doe and inspect her stomach to determine where she has been feeding. Depending on what you find, focus your efforts and stand placement around that area. Move farther into the woods if they are feeding more on browse and mast inside the timber. If you find out what the does are eating, you will find the bucks.
Gather Their Curiosity
In early October, deer have not been pressured by hunters in the rifle seasons and will be more curious than later in the season. Use this to your advantage by placing a turkey decoy or deer decoy on a well-used deer trail. When an approaching deer sees the decoy, they may spend long enough inspecting the decoy that it will allow you to setup for a shot.
Move Stands Frequently
Use this time to move into multiple stands and take an inventory of the deer in different areas. Be careful how you approach the stands, and always remain scent-free. Watch the game trails and how the deer travel on them to determine if you need to move your stand placement.
Bump and Setup
Pack your climber on your back and head into your hunting area as quietly as possible. Slowly move into a bedding area, and when you bump a mature buck out of his bed, quickly analyze the surrounding trees and climb into the tree and get set up. The buck will take his time but will eventually work around in a big circle back into the bedding area.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Standard vs HD Swarovski Spotting Scope
Overview
Swarovski Optik offers precision optics ranging from binoculars, rangefinder, rifle scopes and spotting scopes. They offer several different models of spotting scopes with different features that fit the needs of the user.
History
For over a century, the Swarovski family has been supplying superior optics. Standard and HD spotting scopes make up the 12 models available from Swarovski.
Types
HD models are offered with coated prisms that provide crisp, high-quality images. Standard spotting scopes still have Swarotop and Swarodur coatings that produce high-contrast images.
Features
The standard and HD models are available with ATM (angled) or STM (straight). The user needs to determine which model is more comfortable for them.
Size
Sizes center on the objective sizes and are available in standard and HD in 65 mm or 80 mm. If you are concerned with weight, select the 65 mm. If you need to gather as much light as possible, pick the 80 mm.
Benefits
When looking for overall quality, the HD spotting scope has better glass than the standard model.
Swarovski Optik offers precision optics ranging from binoculars, rangefinder, rifle scopes and spotting scopes. They offer several different models of spotting scopes with different features that fit the needs of the user.
History
For over a century, the Swarovski family has been supplying superior optics. Standard and HD spotting scopes make up the 12 models available from Swarovski.
Types
HD models are offered with coated prisms that provide crisp, high-quality images. Standard spotting scopes still have Swarotop and Swarodur coatings that produce high-contrast images.
Features
The standard and HD models are available with ATM (angled) or STM (straight). The user needs to determine which model is more comfortable for them.
Size
Sizes center on the objective sizes and are available in standard and HD in 65 mm or 80 mm. If you are concerned with weight, select the 65 mm. If you need to gather as much light as possible, pick the 80 mm.
Benefits
When looking for overall quality, the HD spotting scope has better glass than the standard model.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
How to Buy a Scouting Camera
Overview
Using digital scouting cameras has transformed how people scout a hunting area. A good camera can give inside information on the number of animals in your area and trophy quality. Manufacturers are offering more and more choices for a hunter on any budget. Buying a scouting camera that fits your needs can be difficult if you are not familiar with the different features.
Step 1
Calculate the total amount of money that you can allocate to scouting cameras. Depending on the amount and the type of camera you pick, you may be able to buy multiple cameras. Some cameras can be found for around $100, and top-end cameras can cost as much as $500.
Step 2
Analyze the available internal memory or memory source for the pictures and media. Many cameras use an SD card or CompactFlash card that can be purchased for a small additional fee. You do not want your camera to run out of memory while it is still taking pictures. Buy the biggest memory card that you can afford with the remainder of your budget.
Step 3
Review the trigger speed on models within your price range. Faster trigger speeds typically result in a higher price. Having a fast trigger speed gives you the ability to capture every animal that walks in front of the camera. With a slower trigger speed, many animals will simply walk right out of the frame and you will not be able to analyze the trophy quality.
Step 4
Compare other features such as the quality and size of the pictures. Many cameras are digital and can take pictures ranging from 3.0 megapixels to 6.0 megapixels. Most hunters are satisfied with the 3.0 megapixel camera, but others are using the pictures for promotional purposes and the 6.0 megapixel is the best option. Look at the type of flash, which can spook game. Infrared flash is available on some camera styles.
Tips
Find a model or brand that you trust and learn how to use the cameras.
Use several cameras and aerial maps to track wildlife movement patterns.
Warnings
Be aware of public land or other high traffic areas to avoid losing your scouting camera to theft.
Chek for surrounding brush or tree limbs that may trigger pictures as the limbs blow in front of the sensor.
Using digital scouting cameras has transformed how people scout a hunting area. A good camera can give inside information on the number of animals in your area and trophy quality. Manufacturers are offering more and more choices for a hunter on any budget. Buying a scouting camera that fits your needs can be difficult if you are not familiar with the different features.
Step 1
Calculate the total amount of money that you can allocate to scouting cameras. Depending on the amount and the type of camera you pick, you may be able to buy multiple cameras. Some cameras can be found for around $100, and top-end cameras can cost as much as $500.
Step 2
Analyze the available internal memory or memory source for the pictures and media. Many cameras use an SD card or CompactFlash card that can be purchased for a small additional fee. You do not want your camera to run out of memory while it is still taking pictures. Buy the biggest memory card that you can afford with the remainder of your budget.
Step 3
Review the trigger speed on models within your price range. Faster trigger speeds typically result in a higher price. Having a fast trigger speed gives you the ability to capture every animal that walks in front of the camera. With a slower trigger speed, many animals will simply walk right out of the frame and you will not be able to analyze the trophy quality.
Step 4
Compare other features such as the quality and size of the pictures. Many cameras are digital and can take pictures ranging from 3.0 megapixels to 6.0 megapixels. Most hunters are satisfied with the 3.0 megapixel camera, but others are using the pictures for promotional purposes and the 6.0 megapixel is the best option. Look at the type of flash, which can spook game. Infrared flash is available on some camera styles.
Tips
Find a model or brand that you trust and learn how to use the cameras.
Use several cameras and aerial maps to track wildlife movement patterns.
Warnings
Be aware of public land or other high traffic areas to avoid losing your scouting camera to theft.
Chek for surrounding brush or tree limbs that may trigger pictures as the limbs blow in front of the sensor.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Arizona Elk and Antelope Permits Deadline
The Feb. 9 application deadline to submit elk and pronghorn hunt applications is rapidly approaching – don’t procrastinate any longer.
Applications must be submitted to the Arizona Game and Fish Department by U.S. mail to P.O. Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052 or hand-delivered to any department office by Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010 by 7 p.m. (MST) – postmarks do not count.
There is no online application service available.
The regulations for Arizona’s 2010 elk and pronghorn antelope seasons are available at hunting and fishing license dealers throughout the state, at all Game and Fish offices, or online at www.azgfd.gov/draw.
Hunters are reminded a 2010 hunting license is required to apply. To learn more about the big game draw lottery process, bonus points, and available leftover spring hunting permits, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.
Applications must be submitted to the Arizona Game and Fish Department by U.S. mail to P.O. Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052 or hand-delivered to any department office by Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010 by 7 p.m. (MST) – postmarks do not count.
There is no online application service available.
The regulations for Arizona’s 2010 elk and pronghorn antelope seasons are available at hunting and fishing license dealers throughout the state, at all Game and Fish offices, or online at www.azgfd.gov/draw.
Hunters are reminded a 2010 hunting license is required to apply. To learn more about the big game draw lottery process, bonus points, and available leftover spring hunting permits, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.
Instructions for Primos Turkey Calls
Overview
Primos began making turkey calls in 1989 and has grown at a rate of 25 percent every year. The company has complemented their turkey calls with duck, predator, deer, elk and antelope calls. Turkey calls consist of mouth or diaphragm calls, box calls and slate calls, but these calls can be difficult for a beginning turkey hunter.
Diaphragm Calls
A diaphragm, or mouth call, is typically the top choice for hunters because it allows both hands to be free to handle the gun or bow. It also minimizes movement in the field. which can spook an approaching turkey. Many hunters, however, have trouble making the diaphragm produce a sound that resembles a turkey. The Sonic Dome series of diaphragm calls offers an alternative for the beginning caller with a built-in mouthpiece that creates the proper air channel in the caller's mouth. To produce a sound on the Sonic Dome you want to mouth certain words to produce the entire turkey language. For a yelp, mouth the word "choulk" or "chalk." To cluck, say the word "putt" or "butt." As you learn the proper call placement in your mouth by mouthing these words. you can begin to string multiple yelps or clucks together. The diaphragm is the most difficult to learn, but once you master the call, your turkey hunting success will increase.
Slate Calls
Slate calls are very simple to use and maintain. They can produce most turkey sounds with the striker and glass or slate surface. Strikers are typically made from wood or carbon. First, use sandpaper to rough up the surface of the call and begin by taking the striker and making small circles on the edge of the surface. This should produce a yelping sound and keep making circles without lifting the striker to string multiple yelps together. To produce a cluck, simply make short, quick strokes with the striker. The Freak from Primos allows you to attach the slate call to your leg with the strap that frees up a hand to grab for your gun or other equipment. Maintain the surface of the call by routinely using the sandpaper on the surface.
Box Calls
Box calls are another version of friction calls, and the Primos Heart Breaker one-piece mahogany box accurately reproduces the sounds of the hen turkey. Start by applying the supplied chalk to the surfaces of the box that touch during calling. If you are right-handed, grip the box lightly with the fingers of your left hand and the handle with your right hand. Begin by gently touching and rubbing the two surfaces together until it produces a sound. Making long, consistent strokes with the box and handle will produce yelps. For clucks, use a quick and short stroke with an aggressive burst from the handle.
Primos began making turkey calls in 1989 and has grown at a rate of 25 percent every year. The company has complemented their turkey calls with duck, predator, deer, elk and antelope calls. Turkey calls consist of mouth or diaphragm calls, box calls and slate calls, but these calls can be difficult for a beginning turkey hunter.
Diaphragm Calls
A diaphragm, or mouth call, is typically the top choice for hunters because it allows both hands to be free to handle the gun or bow. It also minimizes movement in the field. which can spook an approaching turkey. Many hunters, however, have trouble making the diaphragm produce a sound that resembles a turkey. The Sonic Dome series of diaphragm calls offers an alternative for the beginning caller with a built-in mouthpiece that creates the proper air channel in the caller's mouth. To produce a sound on the Sonic Dome you want to mouth certain words to produce the entire turkey language. For a yelp, mouth the word "choulk" or "chalk." To cluck, say the word "putt" or "butt." As you learn the proper call placement in your mouth by mouthing these words. you can begin to string multiple yelps or clucks together. The diaphragm is the most difficult to learn, but once you master the call, your turkey hunting success will increase.
Slate Calls
Slate calls are very simple to use and maintain. They can produce most turkey sounds with the striker and glass or slate surface. Strikers are typically made from wood or carbon. First, use sandpaper to rough up the surface of the call and begin by taking the striker and making small circles on the edge of the surface. This should produce a yelping sound and keep making circles without lifting the striker to string multiple yelps together. To produce a cluck, simply make short, quick strokes with the striker. The Freak from Primos allows you to attach the slate call to your leg with the strap that frees up a hand to grab for your gun or other equipment. Maintain the surface of the call by routinely using the sandpaper on the surface.
Box Calls
Box calls are another version of friction calls, and the Primos Heart Breaker one-piece mahogany box accurately reproduces the sounds of the hen turkey. Start by applying the supplied chalk to the surfaces of the box that touch during calling. If you are right-handed, grip the box lightly with the fingers of your left hand and the handle with your right hand. Begin by gently touching and rubbing the two surfaces together until it produces a sound. Making long, consistent strokes with the box and handle will produce yelps. For clucks, use a quick and short stroke with an aggressive burst from the handle.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Boar Hunting Lodges
Boar hunting offers the enthusiast an opportunity at extending the hunting season. Most southern states, including Texas, Florida and Georgia, offer boar hunting. There are outfitters in these states that offer boar-hunting packages in combination with other game. The states offer a variety of terrain for different hunting styles.
Buckeye Lodge
Buckeye Lodge in Cusseta, Ga., presents an abundance of wild hogs. Hunts are conducted over food plots and pine plantations in ladder stands, tower stands and ground blinds. The hog season in Georgia is year-round. Hog hunts are priced at $300 per day, including meals, lodging and one boar per day, as of December 2009. The lodge is on a lake stocked with trout, bass and bluegill. Buckeye Lodge
PO Box 988
Cusseta, GA 31805
(706) 989-1246
buckeyelodge.com
Everglades Adventures
Based in Clewiston, Fla., Everglades Adventures provides a year-round opportunity at hunting wild boar. Hunts are on private ranches and wetlands that have a large population of wild boar averaging between 85 and 120 pounds. It is a high-success fair-chase hunt with several packages and combinations available. Summer special packages are $300 a person for a two-day hunt, as of December 2009.
Everglades Adventures
28965 Obern Road
Clewiston, FL 33440
(863) 983-8999
huntsflorida.com
Stanfield Hunting Outfitters
Texas is a recognized boar-hunting state and Stanfield Hunting Outfitters in Knox City is among the most popular places. It offers boar-hunting packages with two hogs in a lodge with a cook facility, television room and outdoor grill. The hogs are free-ranging and hunted over a baited area on a feeder or after dark with a portable spotlight.
Stanfield Hunting Outfitters
PO Box 517
Knox City, TX 79529
(940) 658-3172
stanfieldhunting.com
Buckeye Lodge
Buckeye Lodge in Cusseta, Ga., presents an abundance of wild hogs. Hunts are conducted over food plots and pine plantations in ladder stands, tower stands and ground blinds. The hog season in Georgia is year-round. Hog hunts are priced at $300 per day, including meals, lodging and one boar per day, as of December 2009. The lodge is on a lake stocked with trout, bass and bluegill. Buckeye Lodge
PO Box 988
Cusseta, GA 31805
(706) 989-1246
buckeyelodge.com
Everglades Adventures
Based in Clewiston, Fla., Everglades Adventures provides a year-round opportunity at hunting wild boar. Hunts are on private ranches and wetlands that have a large population of wild boar averaging between 85 and 120 pounds. It is a high-success fair-chase hunt with several packages and combinations available. Summer special packages are $300 a person for a two-day hunt, as of December 2009.
Everglades Adventures
28965 Obern Road
Clewiston, FL 33440
(863) 983-8999
huntsflorida.com
Stanfield Hunting Outfitters
Texas is a recognized boar-hunting state and Stanfield Hunting Outfitters in Knox City is among the most popular places. It offers boar-hunting packages with two hogs in a lodge with a cook facility, television room and outdoor grill. The hogs are free-ranging and hunted over a baited area on a feeder or after dark with a portable spotlight.
Stanfield Hunting Outfitters
PO Box 517
Knox City, TX 79529
(940) 658-3172
stanfieldhunting.com
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