Here's a breakdown of common trout fishing mistakes that can cost anglers bites and success on the water: 1. Using the Wrong Gear Line too heavy: Trout are line-shy. Using anything above 6-pound test in clear water can spook them. Oversized hooks: Large hooks look unnatural. Opt for smaller sizes (typically 10–16 for bait or flies). Inappropriate r...
Know the Fish You're Targeting Understanding the habits, preferences, and environment of the species you're after is key to successful fishing. Each fish behaves differently, and knowing what makes them tick gives you a major edge. Study Their Behavior Feeding Times: Some fish feed at dawn and dusk (like bass or trout), while others are more active...
Time It Right – One of the most important aspects of successful waterfowl hunting is knowing when to hunt, not just where. Here's how to make timing work in your favor: 1. Be Set Up Before First Light Arrive early to avoid spooking birds. Ducks often start flying just before or right at legal shooting time. Early setup also gives you time to make l...
Change It Up If the fish aren't biting, don't just wait it out—make a change. Fish can be picky, and sometimes even small adjustments can trigger a bite. Try switching up one or more of these: Lure type: Go from a crankbait to a soft plastic, or from live bait to a spinner. Color: On cloudy days, darker lures work well; on sunny days, brighter colo...
1. Rub Yourself With the Woods Grab local vegetation: pine needles, cedar branches, sagebrush, or dry grass. Crush it in your hands to release oils, then rub it on: Your boots Hat Outer jacket or gloves This helps you smell like the environment you're in—not like soap, fuel, or your truck. 2. Make a DIY Leaf Pouch Take a sock or mesh bag and fill i...
Bass fishing holds a special place in the hearts of millions of American anglers—and it's easy to see why. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a competitive pro, bass offer the perfect mix of challenge, excitement, and accessibility. 1. Largemouth Bass Lead the Way Largemouth bass are found in lakes, rivers, and ponds across most of the U.S., makin...
Deer Are the Most Hunted Game in the U.S. White-tailed deer and mule deer top the list as the most commonly hunted big game animals across the United States—and for good reason: 1. Widespread Population White-tailed deer are found in nearly every U.S. state east of the Rockies, while mule deer dominate in the West. Their adaptability to forests, fa...
Here are some focused casting tips to help improve your accuracy, distance, and consistency—whether you're using a spinning rod, baitcaster, or fly rod: 1. Use the Right Rod and Reel Match your rod and reel to the size of the lure or bait you're casting and the species you're targeting. A balanced setup casts smoother and reduces fatigue over long ...
Leaving no trace is a core principle of ethical hunting. It means minimizing your impact on the land so the environment—and the experience—remains healthy and intact for future hunters and wildlife alike. 1. Pack Out Everything You Pack In Bring a small trash bag and take all your garbage with you, including food wrappers, shotgun shells, spent cas...
Use Light Tackle for Trout Fishing Using light tackle is one of the most effective ways to catch trout, especially in clear water or pressured areas. Here's why it matters—and how to do it right: Why Light Tackle Works Stealth: Thin lines and smaller hooks are less visible to trout, which are often cautious and line-shy. Sensitivity: Light tackle h...
These small details can make a big difference in the field. Here's why they matter—and how to stay prepared: Keep Your Knife Sharp A sharp knife makes field dressing, skinning, and quartering faster, safer, and more efficient. A dull blade requires more force and increases the risk of slipping or injury. Touch up your edge regularly with a pocket s...
Success in fly fishing often comes down to mindset as much as skill. Here's how patience and persistence play a key role: 1. Observation First, Casting Second Don't rush to cast—watch the water. Observe insect activity, fish movement, and surface disturbances. Waiting and learning for 10 minutes can be more valuable than blind casting for 30. 2. Ch...
1. Don't Rush—Watch First Observe the water before casting. Look for rises, insect activity, and holding spots. Make each cast count—quality over quantity. 2. Let the Rod Load A proper cast has rhythm: pause on the backcast to let the line fully straighten. If you cast forward too soon, the line collapses. Too late, and you lose power. Think "10 an...
1. Live Baits These are natural and typically more appealing to fish due to scent and movement. Worms (Nightcrawlers, Red Wigglers): Versatile and widely used for freshwater fishing. Minnows: Excellent for targeting larger predator fish like bass, pike, and walleye. Leeches: Popular in freshwater, especially for walleye. Crickets/Grasshoppers: Effe...
Best Places to Deer Hunt (U.S. Edition) If you're looking for top destinations to pursue whitetail or mule deer, here are some of the best regions in the U.S. known for their healthy populations, access, and trophy potential: 1. Texas Why: Massive deer population, long seasons, and plentiful private ranches. Highlights: South Texas is known for pro...
Cleaning a fish properly ensures it's safe and pleasant to eat. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean a fish efficiently: What You'll Need Sharp fillet knife or scaling tool Cutting board Bucket or trash bag (for waste) Running water or a clean rinse station Gloves (optional) Step 1: Rinse the Fish Rinse the fish under cold water to remove an...
Montana is well-known for its diverse and abundant wildlife, making it a premier destination for hunters. The state offers a wide range of game species, from large ungulates to predators, across expansive terrain that includes mountains, prairies, and forests. Big Game Hunting Seasons Montana offers structured seasons for a variety of big game: Dee...
Montana is one of the most sought-after fishing destinations in the United States, known for its clear waters, diverse habitats, and exceptional trout fisheries. With its mix of mountain streams, broad rivers, and large lakes, Montana provides excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. Popular Fish Species Montana's waters are home to a v...
Idaho Fishing Overview Idaho is a hidden gem for anglers, offering pristine waters, diverse fish species, and breathtaking scenery. From alpine lakes to desert rivers, Idaho's fishing opportunities span across rugged mountains, high desert, and lush forests—making it a top destination for freshwater fishing. Popular Fish Species in Idaho Rainbow Tr...
Idaho Hunting Overview Idaho is a premier destination for hunters in the western U.S., offering a wide variety of game, vast public lands, and well-managed seasons. From big game to upland birds, the state's natural diversity and access make it a favorite among both residents and non-residents. Big Game Hunting in Idaho Elk: One of Idaho's most sou...
