Tips for Ice Fishing for Walleye

Learn the Body Language of the Walleye

Yes, fish have body language, passive, aggressive, kind of the way humans do, and knowing that body language will enable you to use it to your advantage. With walleyes, knowing their body language will be instrumental to knowing if you’re in the right place at the right time and what tactics to use to manipulate them to take your lure. When watched with an underwater camera, walleyes will show up as either “aggressive” or “passive”. When in the aggressive stance, their fins are up and backs are arched, signally they are on the hunt for food. Cruising and alert walleyes, as with other species of fish, are the ones that will jump on a lure. To get a clear picture of what’s going on down a hole, devices such as a Vexilar can provide a clear signal that lets you picture the posture of fish swimming underneath you.

Primetime or Not-so-Primetime

Most anglers know all too-well that sunrise and sunset are primetime in that walleyes are typically aggressive and ready to pounce during these windows, making them much easier to catch. Because of this you don’t need to drill as many holes to find where walleyes are most active. Just a handful will do on the fingers and top of the structure, and at prime inside turns. When fish are on the move, they require less effort and time to catch, because they essentially come to you, versus the other way around. During this golden time, you want to drill your holes surgically in prime locations and jig aggressively to pull fish in.

What about after you’ve exhausted that great spot you set up at sunrise or sunset? This is the time to switch strategies and shred the ice. By drilling a lot of holes in an area, you can bounce around and move your lures to catch the fish that are now in a more passive state. Just because the fish are no longer cruising, doesn’t mean the game is over. In fact, by simply stirring up things in their neck of the woods, you can create the kind of activity that can lead to more aggressive postures.

There are two ways to work fishing through primetime and not-so-primetime, either: a) drill a lot of holes ahead of time, or b) drill a few strategically and then more later. Then as the sun rises and activity slows, you can make lots of small moves to fish a spot through.

How Low Do You Go?

The depth at which you first caught these fish is the depth you want to stick with throughout the day. Walleyes don’t delve into deeper waters as their activity slows down, contrary to popular opinion. Rather they just “go limp” becoming less aware of, and therefore responsive to, lures in their vicinity. Stick with the zone and depth you had when you caught during primetime, that’s your starting point.

Also, don’t think you need to “go limp” to fool fish into taking your bait; rather it depends on each situation. In fact, if you are in the area of a passive/indifferent fish, jigging aggressively will often turn that fish around. This is especially helpful when you are behind a fish, because they simply can’t see you or the lure and by causing vibration above them, you can get their attention.

Be Prepared With Outdoor Survival Gear

Choosing the best outdoor survival gear is very imperative. It can mean the difference between being the ultimate survivor and being promptly rescued. There are several items on the market today that can save your life. Many of these items are high quality and very economical.

Some of the basics that everyone should have for survival include a durable rucksack, life-straw, hydration backpack, all-weather tarp and an outdoor tactical head scarf.

Choosing Equipment

When choosing equipment it is very important to choose high quality over quantity. In other words, you should focus upon carrying the bare necessities. The necessary equipment that you carry will depend on many factors. Some of these factors include your physical ability to carry a particular weight or load. This load will be in form of a sport outdoor military rucksack.

There are a few basics that should be in your rucksack. These items include a life-straw and rapid hydration pack. An understated but very important piece of equipment is the outdoor tactical head scarf. To many it appears to be a standard scarf but it is designed for survival. It can be used to squeeze water away from mud and other substances for hydration.

The scarf can be utilized to protect you from the weather, used as an s.o.s flag and much more. To further protect yourself from harsh weather, an all-weather survival tarp is very essential. The tarp can protect you from the harsh elements and can be used for other reasons also such as collecting rain water.

Remaining Hydrated

A life-straw is a portable water filtration system in the form of a straw-like device. It can be used to drink directly from different water sources. This includes streams, puddles and much more. The rapid hydration pack is a small compact and slim backpack that can be carried as well.

Inside of the rapid hydration pack is a specially made rubber sack that holds water. The water that you have can be consumed in combination of the life-straw. You can drink directly from the hydration pack because it has a tube that is connected to it for fast re-hydration.

Be prepared, these items may seem simple but they can save your life in an emergency situation outdoors. It can be very easy for many individuals to over-pack their rucksacks with unneeded equipment. There are many gadgets that are on the market today and it is very important to choose what will save your life over the latest fad.

Basic Outdoor Gear for Hikers and Campers

Camping trips, hiking out, walking tours, backpacking and other outdoor activities require usage of specific equipment and tools. There are many types of equipment available to lovers of nature who prefer to spend time communing with the outdoors. The selection of equipment is based on a number of factors, including the kind of environment, the distance and duration of travel, and the planned activities. Another important factor that influences the choice of equipment is the current set of local regulations that govern the site, all of which are intended to minimize the human impact on the environment. The following are guidelines to assist hikers, campers, and trekkers in planning for their next outdoor sojourn, specifically in choosing basic equipment.

Basic equipment options for temporary shelter and effective protection from the elements

A high performance four-season tent may provide the best kind of protection from the elements. This kind of tent offers users an effective shelter while they are out of doors, and when coupled with a complete sleep-system, the shelter can offer an environment that is warm, cozy, and comfortable. Many types of tents are available in the market. The choice depends on the nature of the environment, the climate, and the duration of stay.

Aside from tents, hikers who intend to stay out overnight can opt for a tarp and wool blanket, if the nighttime temperature does not fall to such a level that risks hypothermia. A sleeping bag may do the trick, or in more challenging environments, a basic sleeping bag may be modified to provide better protection to the user with the addition of bag liners, compression sacks, and ground sheet. Meanwhile, some campers and trekkers prefer to sleep on hammocks. Others bring with them a bivouac shelter or a jungle shelter that is specifically designed for use in tropical rainforest environments.

Tips on carrying, storing, and sourcing potable water

Since water found in the wild is possibly undrinkable, one of the most important aspects of preparing for an outdoor trekking or camping is ensuring that the party carries an adequate amount of water that is potable and safe to drink. In the outdoors, an average adult usually consume two to four liters per day. Each liter of water weighs approximately one kilogram. The amount of water to be brought must be determined in relation to the carrying capacity of the people who will be drinking the available supply. Clean water containers must be procured and examined before water is stored in order to ensure that the supply will not be contaminated. Aside from planning for and preparing the right amount water for the duration of the trip, it is useful to have a working knowledge of the geographical layout of the area, particularly on the locations of possible sources of drinking water. This is especially important if the trek or hike is set in arid areas. Knowing the location of natural water cisterns and reservoirs, as well as the quickest route to sources of drinking water could spell the difference between life and death in survival situations.

Treasure Hunting Is Good For Your Health

Looking for something exciting to do this summer? Ever try treasure hunting?

Treasure hunting will bring you good health, tons of fun and who knows, maybe a treasure trove! Yes, that’s right!

The kind of treasure hunting I am referring to here is metal detecting. I compare metal detecting as a sport right up there alongside golfing. Lots of walking and bending. Not really physically demanding, but the activity will be beneficial to your health. And the rewards will make you an avid hunter and at the end of the day, a very happy one.

Waving that metal detector an inch or two above the ground, sweeping it back and forth. It might take a few minutes, but then your detector emits a strong beeping signal. It’s letting you know that you have found something under the ground. You won’t be able to tell what it is until you dig it up. You pinpoint the location, fall to your knees, pull out your special hand-held treasure digger and begin digging… carefully unearthing the soil, maybe 4 or 5 inches in diameter and a couple of inches deep. You pull out your pinpointer and shove it into the hole to pinpoint the treasure… it beeps and you have just made a discovery. What did you find? A coin? A really old Indian head penny or a gold ring or perhaps a Civil War relic.

What are the benefits of metal detecting?

First of all it’s a great hobby not only for you, but also members of the family. It’s a family thing!
Great exercise. You’ll be walking, bending, squatting, digging and breathing in fresh air.
Excitement. You’ll be uncovering history right under your feet.
Adventure. You’ll be digging for relics on abandoned farms and fields (with the permission of the owner, of course). Also, detecting along sandy beaches, and other places that people congregate.
Whatever you find might be valuable.

It doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. It all depends on how much you want to invest for your metal detector and other paraphernalia, such as headphones, a digging trowel, coin pouch and not to mention comfortable clothing and proper shoes. You don’t want to become encumbered when stooping and digging all day long. With your new pastime you will probably want to read all you can about metal detecting.

The Best Outdoor Concert Venues in the US

As the weather gets warmer, there is nothing more enjoyable than watching a great performance under the stars at an open-air stadium. Throughout the country, there are tons of amazing concert venues where you can listen to your favorite music while enjoying the great outdoors. Some of these stages also give you the opportunity to view stunning natural settings across our country. Read on to learn more about some of the greatest outdoor concert venues in the nation. You just might have to start planning a road trip!

Gorge Amphitheatre

Located in George, Washington, this performance space was built in 1985 and has become known as one of the best and most scenic music venues in the world. The space is located near the Columbia River, with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains in the background. It can hold up to 20,000 visitors and even has a nearby campground available for stays during the performances. The Gorge has hosted famous musical acts like Pearl Jam, Tom Petty, and more.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Red Rocks is the world’s only naturally occurring and acoustically perfect amphitheatre. It’s become sort of a pilgrimage for music lovers and has hosted amazing acts like the Beatles and U2. It’s made of two 300-foot rocks and sandstone, and it seats up to 10,000 guests. Red Rocks is located in Red Rock Park and boasts stunning views of the Denver area. It was designed by Burnham Hoyt and opened in 1941, showing the world how nature and functionality can complement each other.

Greek Theatre

The Greek Theatre has gained popularity as a seminal spot for many up-and-coming musical acts. The venue is a part of UC Berkeley and was opened in 1903 for use by the school’s theater productions. With its close location to Hollywood, it has hosted not only many popular bands, but also many famous actors and actresses like Oliva De Haviland and Mickey Rooney. The theater is also the site of Berkeley’s graduation ceremonies, drawing in notable commencement speakers like President Theodore Roosevelt. The amphitheatre gets its name from its Greek-style columns and architecture.

Jay Pritzker Pavilion

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion, designed by famous architect Frank Gehry, is a stunning installation in Chicago’s Millennium Park. The structure contains 120-foot stainless steel ribbons that stretch over the Great Lawn. In the heart of downtown Chicago and only a short walk from Lake Michigan, you can look at the city’s skyline and enjoy the breeze coming off of the lake as you listen to music from popular bands. There is a mix of fixed seating and lawn space, so you can bring out a blanket and have a picnic as you to listen to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on a warm summer night. The lawn is even equipped with technology that drains out moisture, so you don’t have to worry about getting your pants wet.

10 Summer Outdoor Entertaining Ideas

It’s summer and you want to get the whole gang together for an outdoor BBQ. Make it special – but keep it easy. Here are 10 ideas to help you reach that goal!

Put it on Wheels. Use utility carts, serving cards or even a garden cart (cleaned and lined with a pretty cloth, of course) for different “courses”. You can have a snack cart with munchies or a dessert cart. The beauty of putting it on wheels is that you can easily move it out when you’re ready – or in if there’s a sudden summer shower.

Battery Operated Candles. If you love the flickering, romantic light of a candle but don’t want to mess with dripping wax or the danger of a little one getting to close to the flame, you with battery operated candles. They come in every size from pillars to tea lights. Use them in centerpieces for a special glow.

Citronella. You’re going to need a few real candles – of the citronella sort. If you live in a bug-prone area (and that’s about everywhere in the summertime), you might want to consider spraying with an outdoor bug spray before the event and then adding citronella in candles, torches or oil lamps to keep those pests away.

Festive Ice Cubes. Raspberries, strawberries, a small triangle of lemon… freeze them in your ice cubes! They’re pretty – they’re fun – they’re good eat. Don’t just rely on your ice maker; get some trays and make keeping drinks cool a statement.

Signature Drinks. This will be easy on your budget and add to the “flavor” of your party. Instead of providing a variety of liquors and mixes. Fix one or two signature drinks – and rename them after your family or the event. Think about cool citrus flavors like a classic daiquiri and experiment to add your own twist. Add some wine and beer into the mix if you desire.

Make a Kiddie Pool. Buy an inexpensive kiddie pool and fill it with ice and children’s beverages. Give them a trip to your childhood by buying old fashioned soft drinks – usually available in warehouse stores, specialty shops or online. The pool makes it easy for the short people in our lives – our children – to see and select their favorite.

Solar Lights. It’s almost as much fun as watching the fireflies come out. String solar lanterns or use solar stakes that will come to life as the sky darkens. After the party, they’ll add a festive touch to your backyard.

A Fire Pit. If it’s going to get chilly or if you’re going with some classic S’mores, you’re going to need fire – plus the chocolate, graham crackers and marshmallows.

Water, Water. For the kids (and maybe the adults) if you’re starting when it’s warm enough so no one will get chilled break out the water balloons and maybe even a slip ‘n slide. Don’t forget some classic lawn games like croquet or corn hole.

Inside Comfort. Face it – you’ll have a few guests who really aren’t the outdoor type. Make sure you create an indoors space for them or for anyone who wants to take a break. If you haven’t had your yearly air conditioning service by an air conditioning contractor – do it before you entertain. You don’t want to sweat getting ready and you want your guest to be comfortable if they choose to come indoors.

How to Find the Perfect Fire Starter

When you go camping, backpacking or hiking, starting a fire is always essential. Although it may sound easy, most people struggle to produce an efficient campfire. When you’re outdoors, matches are essential. If campers run out of these, it can greatly worsen the situation. As a result, it is important to know different fire starting methods and have different fire starter kits ready. Whether the fire will be use to cook your food or just keep you warm at night, it is imperative that you know how to build a fire using different fire starter kits with or without the availability of matches.

Preparing the Campfire

When planning to build a campfire, make sure that fires are allowed in the area or if they require fire pits. Before your start the fire, it is important that you have sufficient water and a shovel nearby in case the fire gets out of hand. Secondly, a proper fire pit should be made using rocks placed in a circle. This acts as the fire ring.

Materials

  • Tinder– Examples include dry grass, twigs or bark shavings. Basically any small and dry materials that will easily burn when ignited with a spark.
  • Kindling– These are medium-sized materials that easily catch fire such as dry leaves, sticks or larger pieces of bark. Make sure that they are dry and not too big.
  • Wood logs- These are larger pieces used to keep the fire going once it is started from the kindling. Again, it is essential that the wood is dry and long dead.

Other Common Fire Starters

Not having matches around should not stop you from making a decent fire. In fact, there are various fire-starting methods without any need for matches. Here are a few common methods you can use when you find yourself without a lighter or match sticks.

Chips – If you have a bag of potato chips or other greasy snacks in your backpack, you can use these as easy and quick fire starters.

Flint and steel – This is one of the most basic ways to start a fire. Using the flint to strike the steel at an acute angle can create sparks to start your fire. Make sure to strike near the kindling.

Lenses – If the sun is out, you can angle your magnifying glass or the lenses of your eyeglasses toward the sun. Place a ball of tinder right under the lens and make sure to concentrate the sunlight into the smallest area possible. Adding water to the lens can intensify the light beam even more.

Household items – Common items found at home such as candles, alcohol hand sanitizers, alcohol swabs and insect repellents can also be used as a quick and easy fire starter as well.

Building fire is essential to any outdoor adventure. Hence, it is important that one not only has the equipment to start a fire, but the skills to do so as well. This way, even if you forget to bring these tools, you can always be more resourceful. Anyway, without the right skills all the fire starter equipment will only go to waste. Additionally and most importantly, it is essential that you use caution when starting a fire with any fire starter tool of your choice.

Tips for Improving Campground Sustainability

When you want to ensure that your outdoor camping experience will not have a negative impact on your surroundings, pay attention to the facility you choose. Not every campground can institute fancy green initiatives, but you can choose one that will provide the best all-around experience.

What is Sustainability?

Sustainability involves efforts to reduce negative environmental, economic, cultural, and social impact. You will be able to assess a facility’s advances toward sustainability by exploring its activities, regulations, and exchanges with the surrounding community. While it might be impressive to see a certificate or another award showing an earned certification, this isn’t the only indicator of a green initiative.

Assessing the Venue

A careful look around will give you important clues about environmental friendliness. Speak with management to learn about rules and regulations.

You might encounter rules about the maximum number of people allowed at sites, which are set to minimize impact on the environment. In general, all sites should be located at a minimum of 200 feet away from natural sources of water, and fires should be allowed in official fire rings only.

Look for evidence of waste reduction regulations. This typically includes “Leave No Trace” policies such as “Pack it in, pack it out.” These guidelines can be remarkably simple. Whatever items people bring to the site will need to be taken with them when they leave. The facility will likely be utilizing systems to properly dispose of other types of waste. This waste includes sewage and gray water.

Consumption management is also a crucial factor. Research how the venue manages power, food, firewood, and water provided to patrons. Find out how people can access power, and look to see whether alternative energy sources are available. Does the campground encourage usage of sustainable energy? Look for water-harvesting and water-saving strategies in place by the management.

Examine the construction of the facility. Check to see if outhouses or other structures are made out of recycled materials or environmentally-friendly materials such as structural fiberboard, and roofing materials made out of a plastic/rubber composite.

Community Involvement

Giving back to the community is an important indication of sustainability. Find out if a facility contributes to the surrounding community with outreach, sponsorships, and donations. Perhaps they contribute to a local wildlife fund or forest fire prevention fund.

Summer Time Outdoors

Summer fun begins when school is out and no more studies, that is for some kids. Schools now offer the kids summer school which might include catching up on hours to graduate or learning new skills and attending classes that need improvement. Other kids go to summer school just to be with their friends and have fun. Many schools plan outside activities like going to the park, swimming pool, or going to places to see the fire department, police headquarters and meet the people who serve their community. Some kids participate in crafts and games at school, but overall most kids enjoy their time at summer school.

Some of the sports outside still are going on in most areas. Boys and girls are involved in playing T-ball or baseball, while parents and grandparents cheer them on. It is just part of summer and being outdoors, even when it is hot and muggy. This is a good time to meet other parents and your neighbors that you don’t always see. Usually, you will share a bag of popcorn, candy, ice cream and soda with your kids or grandkids, what a great time to be together. You, of course, will want to take the camera to be able to take that special picture or video of your kids or grandkids. What memories you can make with them for being there at that special time when they catch the ball or make a home run.

As summer season continues the outdoor sports like swimming, riding bikes, going to camp and just being around their friends is important to them.

While dad and mom are packing and getting the car ready to go on vacation. The kids are getting their special toys ready to take with them. Some families will plan to go to spend their time at an amusement park or to the beach, while other families are getting ready to go camping and spending time up in the mountains and enjoying the outdoors and scenery.

Summer is a busy time, but can also be a great time to enjoy the family and be together. Taking time with your family is so important today since days seem to be so busy and our schedules are so full with work and other activities. Our kids and grandkids grow up so fast and leave home to go off to school or take a job away.

5 Must Haves For Winters

Winter is love and I enjoy it to my fullest every year. It’s the time of year when my energy is at the maximum because I don’t enjoy much in summers due to the scorching sun shining all over my head. I do skiing, skating, and enjoy some other outdoor play, but still, there are some things I always have to prepare before winters start. Here’s what you need to make your winters worthwhile.

1. Ski

Like I said, I love skiing so I need ski shoes and boats. Go to a local sports store where commercial playground equipment is available and there you will easily find ski items, too. I usually shop in September as it is the time when great variety is available and store staff treats you well, too, because they have a plenty of time.

2. Skates

Just like skiing, I love skating and I need skates every winter, both for myself and my kids. I have seen some used pairs available at multiple sports shops and I was surprised to see their condition. They were good enough for the use of both young and adults, so make sure you get some of these to make the most of coming winters.

3. Beauty Products

In winters, skin gets very dry and sometimes, even itchy due to the central heat. I always prefer keeping coconut oil at my home in winters and I moisturise my kids with it. However, I also buy some winter creams and lotions to make sure my children’s skin does not get affected. Some of the brands I have tried including Nature’s Baby Organics, Earth Mama Angel Baby, and California Baby have given fruitful results.

4. Lip Balm

Just like skin, lips get dry a lot during winters. Therefore, I always keep a lip balm in my bag and keep one in each of my kid’s pocket. This way, I reduce the chances of forgetting it before getting out. In case you can’t find a decent chapstick or lip balm, try moisturizing lips with coconut oil. It has done wonders for me, to be honest. If it doesn’t suit you, you can also try simple butter and Aquaphor as a lip balm. However, try to use them in a little amount so that it won’t irritate you.

5. Snow Gear

When you get the first unexpected snow, you need readily available things like snowshoes, gloves, pants, hats, and coats. Kids get so excited when it’s the first snow of the year and all they want is to go outside and make a snowman and take pictures. Therefore, your snow gear must be prepared beforehand so that you won’t miss that lovely time of the year.

Some schools even ask for a snow kit, and if you don’t get your kid one, it will end up him being indoors while his peers are out in the snow jiggling and giggling around. I am sure you would hate it so much, so avoid doing it. You can save a good amount if you shop in March for snow gear as there isn’t a demand for these things during a hot weather.

In a Nutshell

Winters are almost here, and you should now prepare yourself to make the most of the lovely weather. All you need is some advanced planning and a little effort to enjoy winters at its fullest. However, don’t forget to take measures for health protection as it’s the time for an infectious outburst. Aren’t the given tips simple enough to make your winters momentous?