Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

Legal Defense for Self Defense®

U.S. LawShield®, industry leader and America’s largest provider of Legal Defense for Self Defense®  coverage, announces support of the inaugural Tactical Industry Weekend to be held at the GUNTRY Range of Maryland from October 8-10 in Owings Mills, MD.

According to P.J. Hermosa, CEO of U.S. LawShield, “We expect the first annual Tactical Industry Weekend at the renowned GUNTRY Range of Maryland to be a stellar success. Offering folks a place to learn more about personal defense, new products, and industry services is a win for the Second Amendment, and we appreciate working with our top-notch partner facilities who embrace that mission,” he said.

“Building an expo where consumers can meet face-to-face with industry professionals, manufacturers, retailers, and media to try their hands at new gear and learn about personal defense is how we convey our commitment to the right to bear arms,” said Ron Holmes, USMC MSgt (Ret.), Director of Training and Product Development for the Tactical Industry Weekend’s presenting sponsor, Ryker USA. “We are especially thankful to have U.S. LawShield as an important partner in promoting awareness of self-defense as we educate law-abiding gun owners.”

About GUNTRY of Maryland

In September, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) hosted the Trailblazer Girl Scout Troop from Hoover, Alabama, at the South Competition Center in Anniston, Alabama. The group of 25 Girl Scouts and parents arrived at the facility to take part in a day of fun on the range where they learned more about the sport of marksmanship and everything necessary to compete.

“They scheduled the range for two hours to get the girls on a different adventure than their normal realm,” said Renay Woodruff, CMP South Competition Center supervisor.

The Girl Scout Troop leaders had first heard about the CMP from someone who had visited the South Competition Center and suggested it could be a unique and worthwhile opportunity for the group. Interested, they contacted Woodruff and made arrangements for a personal tour of the range.

“They were very pleased with their visit and stated that they would be attending again,” said Woodruff. “Troop leader, Kristina Theall, also brought another troop leader, and we discussed the opportunity for her to bring her troop as well.”

The CMP South Competition Center is furnished with a state-of-the-art indoor air gun range that holds 80, 10-meter firing points – all equipped with electronic targets. The range hosts a number of local-, state- and national-level events all year long and is open weekly for public use.

The new Fixed Blade Knife from True Knives presents a stylish shift to a larger, tactical-style knife. Known for delivering well-thought-out pocket knives and micro-tools, the new Fixed Blade Knife brings True Knives’ recognizable design and ingenuity to their new, bigger model. From pommel to point, the new Fixed Blade Knife delivers a do-it-all tool for the backyard, worksite, campsite, or everyday carry.

The 4” drop point full tang blade is the perfect do-it-all knife. The 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel blade displays a robust black oxide finish providing corrosion resistance, low-light reflection, and sharp edge retention. The entire easy-to-grip handle is made of TPR with an integrated Glass Breaker Pommel. This design pairs the benefits of many different knife styles into one package that is easy on the hip and firm in the hand.

Weighing in at 9.6 ounces, this knife is lightweight and easy to carry in the molded sheath as either a scout carry, MOLLE, or drop configuration. This is True Knives’ first fixed blade release and one that can handle the tough duties with ease. The .125” thick spine provides robust and durable construction for heavy use while still keeping a stainless edge for fine tasks.

Click here to explore the TRUE Fixed Blade Knife and other exciting TRUE tools. 

FEATURES:

Take a walk in nature and get connected to the natural world during National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 10-16, 2021. Celebrate your access to a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities on the nation’s largest network of public lands dedicated to wildlife conservation, the National Wildlife Refuge System, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“Conservation stewardship and increasing equitable access to public lands is an essential component of the Biden-Harris administration’s America the Beautiful initiative, a decade-long, locally-led and voluntary campaign to conserve, connect and restore 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030,” said Service Principal Deputy Director Martha Williams. “National Wildlife Refuge Week encourages all Americans to visit national wildlife refuges and  discover a range of world-class recreation opportunities and take pride in our rich wildlife heritage.”

National Wildlife Refuge Week is observed each year during the second full week of October. The first day – October 10 this year – is fee-free at wildlife refuges that normally charge an entrance fee. Nearly 500 wildlife refuges and wetland management districts offer free admission year-round.

The Refuge System offers many outdoor activities including walking, fishing, wildlife viewing and hunting while providing vital habitat for thousands of wildlife species, including sandhill cranes, American alligators, bison and sea turtles.

Findings of a major study show Americans from all backgrounds understand that thriving wildlife populations and places dedicated to their conservation help them and their families live happier, healthier lives. Spending time in nature promotes mental and physical well-being.

Holosun is pleased to return to the Association of the United States Army annual meeting and exposition in Washington, DC. Holosun will debut exciting new products including the AEMS and recent X2 green reticle optics in booth #4343.

AUSA, or the Association of the United States Army, annual meeting and exposition is held on October 11-13, 2021 in Washington, DC. This event is a major and noteworthy event that pairs some of the military industry’s largest players in a singular event while allowing new companies to show their services and goods to media and military professionals. The overall goal of AUSA is to Educate, Inform, and connect all those involved in the industry to promote support of one another.

Holosun Technologies, Inc., located in City of Industry, California, is committed to creating innovative optic and laser/IR technologies that benefit a broad range of shooting, hunting, law enforcement and professional needs. Using the quality manufacturing standards demanded by some of the best-known optics brands in the world, with a wide range of affordable options, Holosun is at the forefront of development of new sight technologies. Key innovations include Shake Awake TechnologyTM, 50,000-hour battery life, Solar FailSafeTM, Multiple Reticle SystemTM (MRS), Super Green LED, and IR/Laser units that utilize the most recent advancements in laser and LED technology. At Holosun, we pride ourselves on providing cutting-edge equipment at a competitive price that astounds the competition and the end-user.

For more information, please visit
www.holosun.com

New Program Allows Consumers to Build and Order Their Own Custom Holster Online

Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, has announced a new custom Kydex holster program where customers can build and order their own holster or magazine carrier directly on Blackhawk.com. With limitless options to select from, consumers can now craft a true one-of-a-kind holster with all the features they need to carry confidently while matching their own personal style. 

Through the new program, which is exclusive to the Blackhawk website, consumers can choose either IWB (inside-the-waistband) or OWB (outside-the-waistband) Kydex holster models, as well as custom EDC dump trays and magazine carriers for both pistol and rifle. By following the easy-to-use online instructions, consumers can now tailor the form and function of their holster to meet their own exact specifications. 

To get started, simply go to the Blackhawk website and choose your handgun manufacturer and model; left-handed, right-handed or ambidextrous carry; as well as red dot compatible options, light-bearing models, belt loop size, threaded barrel compatibility and more. Make your holster unique to you by choosing the finish on the front and back – choose from solid colors, carbon fiber colors (made of Boltaron®), camo patterns and specialty prints.

All of Blackhawk’s custom Kydex holsters are manufactured in the U.S. and are ready to ship within three business days. Each holster is constructed from heavy-mil 0.08″ thick Kydex and utilizes a sleek design for a lifetime of reliable use. An undercut trigger guard keeps the Kydex from interfering with your draw, while an over-cut open face accommodates threaded barrels and clears suppressor height sights.

5.11, Inc., the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear, today announced the release of several exciting new products for Fall 2021 that are designed to meet the needs of outdoor adventurers, public safety professionals and tactical enthusiasts. The newly released items are available online and in-stores now.

“Our consumers seek to live the mantra of Always Be Ready at all times, whether they’re at work, in the field, or planning their next outdoor adventure,” said 5.11’s CEO, Francisco Morales. “The items we’re introducing this fall will help them do just that. Our team has strategically designed many of these products to serve our consumers, both in their personal lives and their professional lives.”

For those who desire to Always Be Ready in any and all conditions, 5.11 is introducing the Atmosphere Regulator System, a full, multi-layer clothing system designed for anything nature dishes out. The multi-functional layering system starts with the Tropos Base Layer Tight($45) and the Tropos Base Layer Top ($45) that feature graphene yarn and flatlock seams for moisture wicking and anti-odor performance, along with all-day comfort. Next the Men’s Stratos 1/4 Zip ($70) and Women’s Stratos 1/4 Zip ($70) are technical and stylish all-season pullovers constructed with a durable polyester/elastane-blended fleece with moisture wicking, anti-odor and stretch properties, plus raglan sleeves to provide comfort and a full range of motion. 

After the Stratos 1/4 Zip comes the Mesos Tech Fleece ($90), a full-zip jacket made with anti-piling micro-fleece and strategically placed N6-nylon overlays for extra durability. The Exos Rain Shell ($130) is constructed with a 20k waterproof and 10k breathable 2.5L ripstop fabric, then fully seamed-sealed to withstand prolonged precipitation from any storm. Finally, the Atmos WarmingJacket ($180) is a sturdy parka, designed to provide ultimate warmth and protection, in very cold temperatures. 170 grams of PrimaLoft® Black Insulation is wrapped inside a rugged 5k waterproof and 10k breathable nylon hardshell.

Beyond the Atmosphere Regulator System, customers can find a wide range of new products to meet their needs. The Lester Long Sleeve ($65) provides all-day comfort with chamois construction and added durability, with a double-layer yoke. It also features the customer favorite RAPIDraw snap placket, to keep EDC gear readily accessible, yet discrete at all times.

Billy Chapman and John Hemken announce the beginning of a joint partnership creating the new StyleCraft Boats family of fiberglass hulled pontoon boats, available only through direct factory sales. Chapman, pioneer of peacock bass fishing in the Amazon jungles and creator of the Floating Suite mobile lodge, and Hemken, with over 25 years of perfecting new and innovative production and owner of A&M Manufacturing, are designing several models of pontoon boats all with premium fiberglass hulls for optimum durability and performance.

Flagship of the line is the Fun Slide boat, a 28-foot pontoon craft built on Bulldog hulls with a 10-foot-wide main deck and upper deck featuring two water slides. The 22- and 26-foot Outfitters are recreational tritoons with multiple floorplans for family fun and fishing built on Riptide hulls. Outfitter pontoon boats also feature multiple deck boxes with cushion seats, and much more.

StyleCraft Boats also offers three different kit boats allowing the DIYer the opportunity to finish out the boat to their liking. The Kit Boat includes fiberglass hulls and heavy-duty aluminum C-channel floor beams ready for assembly.

The StyleCraft Boats Tuff Boat is a workboat created for the rigors of heavy-duty operations. A deck boat that can be configured for any task, the Tuff Boat can be outfitted with a crane, welder and anything else a work boat might need. StyleCraft works with the owner to determine the right size pontoon boat for the work at hand.

All StyleCraft Boats are built by A&M Manufacturing and feature a heavy duty set of fiberglass hulls measuring from 30 feet to 53 feet in length. The deck is built with marine grade composite that is fiberglassed, gelled and webbed. No wood is used in StyleCraft Boats. Each boat can be configured with an outboard engine. More models will be introduced.

Deep drop fishing is a productive way to catch swordfish, snapper, and grouper, but leaving several pounds of lead loose on the deck is a recipe for disaster. Tigress’ Adjustable Deep Drop Lead Holder keeps your heavy weights secure but at the ready, providing convenient storage while preventing damage.

It takes specialized tackle and plenty of weight to target fish in waters 600 feet or deeper. The effort is worthwhile when the reward is species like tilefish, swords, snapper, and grouper. Unfortunately, storing several pounds of loose lead on the deck while you motor out to the fishing grounds can cause damage. Even minimal chop can cause the weights to bounce enough to destroy the gel coat. Bigger waves can send weights flying, taking out structural components and injuring passengers. 

Tigress’ Adjustable Deep Drop Lead Holder conveniently and securely holds weights while you motor out to the hole, protecting boats and passengers. A deep, stainless cup quickly accepts most weight designs to safely stow oversized sinkers in seconds. The lead holder fits in standard 1-5/8” rod holders and features a cushioned midsection to soak up the shock that occurs when powering through big swells. The adjustable design accommodates rod holders with 0, 15, and 30-degree angles to work on any boat. The Deep Drop Lead Holder is easily stowable, clearing up valuable fishing real estate when you run back inshore and switch techniques.

The anodized aluminum construction of the Adjustable Deep Drop Lead Holder resists the rigors of the sea for a lifetime on the salt. It’s built with the same high quality that Tigress is known for, so it will look and perform flawlessly for generations. 

Adjustable Deep Drop Lead Holder

Luke Schnee, a 14-year-old from Curtice, Ohio, won the O-Class (open sight) 4-H championship during the National Rimfire Sporter Match, part of the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s National Matches.

Schnee beat out 50 other competitors in the competition, which was fired Sunday, July 25, on Camp Perry’s Viale Range. Schnee scored 433-3X.

During the event, competitors fired from 50 and 25 yards in prone, sitting and standing positions. Over 260 competitors took the firing line during the match in Open Sight (O), Telescope Sight (T) and Tactical (TU) classes.

Schnee is homeschooled and he will be a high school freshman this year. This was his first time at the national matches, where he competed in the Rimfire match and participated in the Rifle Small Arms Firing School with his parents. 

The Rimfire match was just his second competition. His very first competition experience was this past May at the monthly matches at Camp Perry’s Gary Anderson Competition Center air rifle range. His mother Amber says he has been shooting since he was little, shooting BB guns from the age of 6 and moving up to a .22 rifle when he was 8-years-old, shooting muzzleloaders, an M16 at Small Arms Firing School.

Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) and “Hunting Matters” welcomes Brian Gilroy, Co-Founder/CEO of Wildlife Partners.

Brian was raised in Texas and grew up with a love of the outdoors. During his first career, he spent almost 20 years in the oil and gas industry. His primary focus was financial services related to the oil and gas exploration business. He spent the majority of his time managing investments for high-net-worth investors. In 2002, he founded an oil and gas exploration company and placed approximately $100,000,000 of investment capital in various exploration projects across the United States. 

In 2011, Brian began investing in the exotic wildlife industry. As a result, he co-founded Wildlife Partners in April of 2016. As an entrepreneur, hunter and conservationist, his love for wildlife has led Brian to create an innovative model that marries wildlife conservation with capitalism. Wildlife Partners is today the largest breeder of exotic wildlife in the United States. The company has amassed more than 10,000 acres and is breeding 60 species with more than 3000 animals.

About Hunting Matters
Tune in to “Hunting Matters” with Houston Safari Club Foundation Executive Director Joe Betar as he engages in conversations with guests, from various backgrounds, that have a passion for hunting and conservation. Great discussions, news, hunting legislation updates and more! “Hunting Matters” airs each Saturday, 6am-7am CDT on KPRC AM 950 – Real Texas, Real Talk, a Houston iHeartMedia station, and Houston’s longest running radio station. “Hunting Matters” is also available via podcast on Apple/iTunes, iHeartMedia, Google, Overcast, and Spreaker. Subscribe, listen and provide a review and rating!

About Houston Safari Club Foundation
Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 600 scholarships totaling $2.7 million dollars. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants for hunter-funded wildlife, habitat, and various conservation initiatives. HSCF is an independent organization, is not affiliated with Safari Club International (SCI) or its affiliates and is not a chapter or affiliate of any other organization. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We Hunt. We Give. 

BHA is hiring more employees, obtaining a new and larger building, increasing the number of machinery, and doubling sourcing suppliers to reduce lead times.

As with most industries, the firearms industry has seen an impact on suppliers and vendors due to COVID-19 restrictions and limitations. In addition, there has been an increase in product demand as American citizens turn out to support their 2A rights with a record-setting number of background checks in 2020 alone. The delays from suppliers and vendors, as well as the increase in demand, have resulted in extended lead times for Big Horn Armory (BHA) firearms. However, Big Horn Armory, makers of big-bore firearms, are implementing several changes that will work to improve product lead times over the next few months. These new changes include hiring more employees, obtaining a new and larger building, increasing the number of machinery, and doubling BHA’s sourcing suppliers.

“We hope to increase our manufacturing capabilities two to three times over the next year,” commented Greg Buchel, Owner of Big Horn Armory. “Much of this will involve new personnel in our assembly and quality control departments. We have a core workforce of excellent people right now and we intend to use these people to train and orient our new personnel to create more of the fine products that we currently produce for our customers.”

BHA will be doubling its workforce in the next few months in the manufacturing department. A new building will increase the manufacturing space by 500 percent and in addition to providing more manufacturing space, will also offer better facilities for building BHA’s firearms and for maintaining inventory. New machinery will include CNC mills and lathes and barrel-making equipment, which will help to lessen the dependency upon outside vendors.

“Our firearms are not purchases made on a whim, but thoughtful investments in heirloom-quality rifles aimed at giving you the biggest bang for your buck. We know our customers want these rifles, and we want to give them to them. We’re working our hardest to get our firearms out the door and into our customers’ hands,” Buchel stated. “We appreciate our customers’ patience as they bear with us as we continue to fulfill our orders and implement these changes to meet our customers’ needs.”

Irving, TX – Walker’s®, the leader in hearing protection and enhancement, is pleased to announce the launch of the updated Walker’s LINK app. This new and improved app now provides universal control of all Walker’s connected products along with the addition of several new app features.

Available for free download through the Apple and Google Play app stores, the revised Walker’s LINK app brings all the company’s app-compatible ear pro products under a single app umbrella. Supported devices include:

In addition to consolidating all connected products with a single app, the updated LINK app adds several new features to expand control and customization for the individual shooter’s needs. App features include:

The Walker’s LINK app improves connectivity performance and stability among all supported devices as compared to previous app versions. Further, the updated app supports light and dark modes for viewing customization under varying light conditions. The high frequency boost mode has also been tuned to better process the sound of high frequency timers, which is especially important to competition shooters.

To download the free Walker’s LINK app, visit the Apple or Google Play app stores. For more info on Walker’s complete line of digital and passive hearing protection and hearing enhancement products, visit WalkersGameEar.com.

MeatEater’s Steven Rinella co-hosts tonight’s hybrid in-person/digital celebration with D.C. luminaries, outdoor industry leaders, and TRCP supporters

(Washington, D.C.) — Tonight, at its 13th annual Capital Conservation Awards Dinner, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership is proud to celebrate the conservation achievements of Senator John Boozman (R-Ariz.), Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Kim Jordan, co-founder of New Belgium Brewing Company and founder and Board chair of the Mighty Arrow Family Foundation.

“Like TRCP founder Jim Range, our honorees are pragmatic conservationists, who understand that people are a part of the land and believe we are duty-bound to leave a natural legacy to future generations,” says Whit Fosburgh, TRCP president and CEO, who will co-emcee tonight’s event from the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. He will be joined via livestream by Steven Rinella, who will help to present the awards and select sweepstakes winners from the MeatEater studios in Bozeman, Mont. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland will give the opening remarks in D.C.

Sen. Boozman has used his long tenure on the Senate Agriculture Committee to enhance important incentives for fish and wildlife habitat conservation on private lands. As ranking member of the Committee and a member of the Migratory Bird Council, Boozman is a strong leader on Farm Bill conservation programs and a champion of wetlands conservation.

Sen. Cortez Masto has led the fight to protect Nevada’s Ruby Mountains from development, engaging a diverse coalition of hunters, anglers, Tribes, and outdoor enthusiasts. She also serves as Chair of the Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining. She was a key supporter of the Great American Outdoors Act and has been a strong proponent of sensible oil and gas leasing reform.

New Minimalist Outdoor Gear is a Game Changer

Softstar, American manufacturer of minimalist shoes, is adding a new design to delight outdoor enthusiasts. The Switchback is the company’s first dedicated hiking boot, and owner Tricia Salcido can’t wait to introduce it to the footwear market. “There are not many good options out there for minimalist hiking boots,” says Salcido. “Most of the currently available styles are either made from rigid materials, have toe boxes that are too narrow for minimalist hikers or are simply not durable enough to handle rough trails. We plan to change all that with the Switchback.”

Creating a boot that lives up to these expectations was a challenge for Softstar, and it required a departure from their traditional footwear designs. Instead of their usual soft leather uppers, Softstar’s shoe designers experimented with a variety of materials until they found one that met their needs: SuperFabric®. This innovative textile is enhanced through the configuration of tiny armored plates that make it seemingly indestructible. SuperFabric® is resistant to water, abrasions, punctures and stains, yet is still thin, flexible, breathable and ultralight. The interior of the boot is fully lined with 100% merino wool, which keeps feet comfortable and dry with its natural moisture-wicking properties. The wool used by Softstar is sustainably harvested from humanely-treated sheep and is Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified, a strict measure that ensures safety in textiles.

Like all Softstar shoes, the Switchback features a flexible zero-drop sole for a truly barefoot-like experience. The boot is made with 6mm lugged Vibram Megagrip soles, which have been thoroughly tested by some of the world’s toughest ultrarunners to show unparalleled grip and durability on muddy, wet and rugged surfaces. Fans of Softstar’s Primal shoes, which feature extra-wide toe boxes for maximum toe splay, will be happy to learn that the wide width version of the Switchback mimics the Primal shape.

“The Switchback is a real game changer for hikers who want to restore or maintain natural foot function,” says Salcido. The boot’s handcrafted manufacturing takes place entirely within Softstar’s Oregon workshop where they, along with the company’s other shoe styles, are sold direct to customers either through Softstar’s ecommerce website or local showroom.

RCBS®, the leading manufacturer of ammunition reloading equipment for rifles and pistols, has announced the introduction of the new ChargeMaster Supreme powder dispenser. Taking reloading to the next level, the ChargeMaster Supreme combines RCBS precision with automatic adjustments and Bluetooth® compatibility to make reloading easier than ever.

The RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme features a Proprietary Learning Mode which uses a unique feedback loop and algorithms to automatically adjust dispensing speeds and stop points. This two-minute process allows the Supreme to learn the unique characteristics of the powder being dispensed. Once it has been ran, normal sized charges will typically dispense in less than 15 seconds.

“The Chargemaster Supreme is the next evolution in powder dispenser technology,” said Will Hemeyer, Sr. Product Manager for RCBS. “Our patent pending learn process is quick, efficient and easy to use. This function makes sure your powder throws are optimized to the powder you are using, plus the process only takes a few minutes to run and once it does your dispense times are significantly reduced. The Chargemaster Supreme is sure to be the only dispenser most handloaders will need on their bench.”

In addition, the ChargeMaster Supreme is Bluetooth compatible, which allows the user to dispense charges and operate the dispenser hands-free from their phone with the newly redesigned RCBS app. The updated app also offers a virtual reloading bench, a comprehensive load data log, and convenient access to the technical service team to help answer any technical questions a handloader might have.

The ChargeMaster Supreme boasts 0.1-grain accuracy and a 1500-grain load cell capacity. The unit can run on an external battery, meaning reloaders can operate it at home or in the field without being tied to power cords.

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) resumed its Monthly Matches Sept. 18, 2021, at both of its static locations in Anniston, Alabama, and Camp Perry, Ohio – the first fired since May. The indoor air gun event, offered several times throughout the year, features a lineup of air rifle and air pistol competitions for all ages and skill levels.

Over 200 entries were seen between the two venues in September that showcased some of the most talented athletes in the country today, including 2021 Tokyo Olympians like rifle/pistol athlete SGT Nick Mowrer (who made history this year), pistol competitor SSG Sandra Uptagrafft and even rifle silver medalist Lucas Kozeniesky.

Mowrer, 33, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, led the International Pistol Monthly Match at Camp Perry, with Uptagrafft, 50, of Phenix City, Alabama, finishing a close second. Kozeniesky, 26, of  Colorado Springs, earned second in the International Rifle Match at the location, as junior Emme Walrath, 15, of Kenosha, Wisconsin, bested his score by only tenths for the overall win.

Coming off of notable performances at the 2021 National Three-Position Air Rifle and National Smallbore Matches fired this summer, Walrath also claimed third in the 3×20 Precision Rifle Match at the Camp Perry Monthly Match, trailing National Junior Team members Bremen Butler, 16, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Katrina Demerle, 16, of Hamilton, Ohio, who respectively earned second and first.

Other national-level competitors like SPC Tim Sherry, 27, of Fort Benning, Georgia, were frontrunners of events – overtaking the International Rifle category in Anniston. Sherry, a member of the Army Marksmanship Unit, was the 2021 National Smallbore Prone 6400 Aggregate and Iron Sight Champion during Camp Perry National Matches in July.

Versatile Powers and Actions Bring Oversized Bass to Hand

Washington native Luke Clausen is a member of an exclusive club, as one of only a handful of anglers to own Championship trophies from both the Forrest L. Wood Cup and the Bassmaster Classic. Clausen collected those two milestone wins within a two-year period, winning the FLW Cup title in 2004 and the Bassmaster Classic in 2006. That remarkable kick-start has evolved into one of the most successful tournament fishing careers to date: Clausen has racked up 32 Top 10 finishes and over $2.5 million in winnings. His story continues today on the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour.

Clausen relies on G. Loomis rods to put bass in the boat and trophies on the mantle. Backed by 40 years of innovation in the design and manufacture of premium fishing tools, G. Loomis rods enhance the natural abilities of every angler. Clausen values the versatile actions lengths, powers and actions of Spin Jig Rods (SJR), found within the G. Loomis Conquest, NRX+, GLX, IMX-PRO, and GCX series of bass rods. 

“G. Loomis Spin Jig Rods are the most versatile rods in each series, performing well with a wide range of techniques,” notes Clausen. “Spin Jig Rods really shine when using presentations that anglers fish through the middle of the water column. Under these circumstances, I reach for G. Loomis Spin Jig Rods because they have more traditional actions; Spin Jig Rods aren’t as fast as some of the other options in each G. Loomis rod series. They are exceptionally forgiving, with a slower, more parabolic response that allows me to load up on a fish and keep hooks buried tight.”  

“Spin Jig Rods in the new G. Loomis NRX+ series are incredible fishing tools,” asserts Clausen. “One of my favorites is the NRX+ 782S SJR, which is a 6’6” rod with Medium power and Fast action. This is my go-to rod when fishing small swimbaits for smallmouth bass, which is an excellent way to cover water and get big bites anytime from the post-spawn period through the fall. I rig my swimbaits on ⅛ to ¼ ounce jigs and fish them across flats in 8 to 20 feet of water – especially if those flats have patches of grass or rock. When rigged this way, I spool a 2500-series Shimano Vanford with 20-pound-test braided line, which has a thin diameter that allows the bait to swim in the middle of the water column. I add a leader of 8-pound-test fluorocarbon to maintain a stealthy presentation at the lure and provide a measure of abrasion resistance around all of those smallmouth-attracting rocks.”

Anyone who acts as a steward of the land (be it public or private) bears the responsibility of managing the land and the animals which live there, with an end goal of striking a healthy balance between predator & prey species. This sort of balance is beneficial to both the predators and the prey, and hunters who may partake of nature’s bounty – and even rural & suburban homeowners. 

Professional predator and hog hunter Byron South says hunting predator species such as coyotes have long-term benefits for them as well as the prey – with no risk of forever wiping them out. 

“Any good conservation plan includes managing predator numbers,” says Byron. “When not managed, predators and prey species often go through a boom/bust cycle which is not healthy for either. Mother Nature can be brutal. 

“For instance, when prey is abundant, the predators abound and reproduce more offspring. If left unchecked, this offspring can create an issue when they too begin reproducing. When this predator boom happens, it will often create a bust cycle for the prey species due to over-predation.

“When the prey species become depleted by an out-of-balance predator population, a bust cycle begins for the predator population. During this bust cycle, you will also see a rise in conflicts between predators and farm animals & family pets in rural neighborhoods and even in suburban home developments.”