Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

Bass Fishing’s Biggest Prize Awaits One Versatile, Resourceful Angler
By Dena Woerner-Vick

The attention of the bass fishing universe is focused squarely on Lake Hartwell near Greenville, South Carolina this week, as 55 professional anglers – including 16 rookies – compete in the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk. As veteran Elite Series pros Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson and David Mullins rig rods, tie knots, and devise plans to reach the pivotal final day of competition, they each opened their playbooks to provide us with their best guesses about how this year’s Classic will unfold. 

Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson

Hailing from the rocky shorelines of Ontario’s expansive Lake of the Woods, Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson is on a quest to become the first Canadian champion at the Bassmaster Classic. No stranger to hoisting the heavy hardware, Gussy scored his first Bassmaster Elite Series victory on the Tennessee River in 2020 and is now preparing to compete in his third Classic. “I feel lucky and grateful to be back at the Bassmaster Classic,” reflects Gustafson, who is only Elite Series angler to have a “Loonie” – Canada’s one-dollar coin  – permanently embedded within his boat’s carpeted deck. “It reminds me of home and all the people who helped me get where I am today – and there’s no doubt that it brings me good luck!”

“I’ve fished Hartwell a couple of times before,” notes Gustafson, “so I know what to expect. The water is cold, so this should be a pre-spawn event. In fact, I want it to stay cold – I’d be fine if my Lund Pro-V Bass boat was frozen to the trailer every morning. Cold weather and cold water will set up a strong offshore bite – and that’s my biggest strength. There has been some rain near the lake recently, and it’s forecast to rain some more. That influx of water will warm up the backwaters and muddy them up, so I’m sure some competitors will be fishing shallow, dirty water – and no doubt, there will be some big fish caught that way. But I’m looking for consistency offshore; that’s the game I’m going to play.” 

Military Warriors Support Foundation’s Skills4Life program and the Dunn Ranch hosted an unforgettable bonding experience for Combat-Wounded Veterans. The purpose of this event was to provide Heroes with a much-needed opportunity to get out and enjoy nature and various outdoor activities.

Heroes had an excellent start to the week with superb weather for hunting with highs around 50-60 degrees. However, the animal’s cooperation was another story. Fully embracing these challenges in the field, our veterans kept on hunting the entire time with a firm resolve. As a result of their hard work, the group tagged two deer and a hog.

Despite the hardship during the hunt, these Warriors enjoyed great fellowship and camaraderie throughout their time together, making this event fulfilling for everyone involved. Moreover, the participants were pleased to meet the great author Mark Greathouse, a cousin of John Dunn. Mark gifted each Hero with a signed copy of Nueces Blood, his newest book and the fourth of the Tumbleweed Sagas.

During this event, the participants learned how to load, shoot and reload old flintlock rifles. They utilized this knowledge at the range, and each of them fired five shots. Everyone expressed a tremendous appreciation for the Heroes who came before them who had to use these weapons on the battlefield.

Military Warriors Support Foundation wants to thank the Dunn Ranch for hosting this hunt and to each of our Heroes for their sacrifice, and for making this weekend immensely successful. It was a truly unforgettable Skills4Life event for all involved. 

A popular question from new fishermen is how to pick a fishing bait. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the variety of bait choices available while starting fishing. There are many enticements to pick from, but you must limit your choices to just a handful for each fishing session.

Although no bait is guaranteed to catch fish, the more you understand about each, the more and more fish you’ll hook. Let’s get you started on the right track by going over some recommendations for common fishing bait options that work.

How to Choose the Right Bait

Deciding what to place at the tip of the fishing line may make a big difference in the effectiveness of your expedition. Mealworms are often the best option as feeders for fishing. They’re one of the most popular and easiest-to-care-for fish feeder bugs.

When it comes to bait selection, there seems to be a wide range of options to consider. Despite their diversity, they all seem to have one goal: to entice the fish to get stuck!

As a fisherman, you should experiment with different alternatives seeing what goes and what doesn’t. That is probably one of the key reasons why fishing is so enjoyable.

A large contingent of local outdoor experts and displays will be part of the Kansas Open Season Sportsman’s Expo at the Overland Park Convention Center, March 11-13.

Paslie Werth, the new world record non-typical whitetail taken by a female, who hails from Kansas, will have her buck on display at the Kansas Expo. She harvested the buck in September of 2020, when she was just 14 year old. The buck’s official Boone & Crockett score is 271-4/8.

Mark Tobin, Brent Frazee, Don Coffee, Phil Taunton, Joe Falco, Kim Burnett, and Kenneth Kieser from the Outdoor Communicators of Kansas/Missouri, will host a Fishing & Wildlife Roundtable each of the three days of the Expo, featuring Tommy Bench and Thomas Heinen, as well as representatives from Wander Woman Outdoors Kansas.

The group will also have a booth, titled ‘Outside for a Better Inside,’ which features outdoor education/information displays, along with a “hands on” casting range for kids, called Backyard Bass. The casting range will be staffed by Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Fish Kansas certified volunteers.

“Having a family-friendly, interactive display, staffed with all of these local experts, will be a great addition to the Kansas Expo,” said Chris O’Hara, Vertical Outdoor Director, Bonnier Events. “Youth are the future of the outdoors community and being able to educate and engage them is a huge benefit that we are fortunate to be able to provide. It is a pleasure to work with the great team that the Outdoor Communicators of Kansas/Missouri have assembled.”

Columbia, MO – SKB Shotguns and MidwayUSA Foundation have secured a successful partnership for many years, benefiting youth shooting teams across the country. To continue supporting the next generation of outdoorsmen and women, SKB has renewed its sponsorship of MidwayUSA Foundation.  SKB Shotguns will again donate 5% of all parts and accessory sales to MidwayUSA Foundation. SKB Shotguns owner, Rob Johansen, provided G. Scott Reynolds, MidwayUSA Foundation Executive Director, with proceeds from 2021 sales at the 2022 SHOT Show. 

Rob Johansen spoke about the importance of the SKB and MidwayUSA Foundation relationship. “SKB has a long-standing tradition of quality products and services that support youth shooting sports and gun enthusiasts. It’s vitally important we invest in the next generation to carry on our shooting sports heritage in America. Every contribution to the MidwayUSA Foundation provides long-term stability to youth shooting sports forever.” Some of the accessories offered include range bags, shell pouches, gun cases, replacement stocks and forends, choke tubes, and even spring rebuild kits. Call 800-752-2767 or visit  skbshotguns.com to start shopping to benefit youth shooting sports. 

In addition to the accessory sale proceeds, participating youth shooting teams and organizations can also register to receive a SKB RS300 Target Wood Shotgun, free of charge, through MidwayUSA Foundation’s product grant program. Teams and organizations that receive this shotgun can conduct a community fundraiser and funds raised are donated to their MidwayUSA Foundation Team Endowment where they are matched. Sponsors like SKB Shotguns prove their commitment to the youth of the outdoor industry through these ongoing programs. 

Other companies interested in supporting MidwayUSA Foundation through a sponsorship can contact John Linquist, MidwayUSA Foundation Relationship Manager, by calling 573-219-7688 or by email  [email protected].

About SKB Shotguns: The current line of SKB shotguns includes semi-automatic, side by side, single barrel trap, and over & under models. Our focus is to produce competition shotguns that are designed with a modern-day style that include enhanced performance features. SKB continues to look for ways to improve the overall construction, operation, and fit of our shotguns that fill the needs of today’s shooters. Our goal is to produce a high-quality shotgun, which includes adjustable performance features at a price that the average competitive shooter can afford. SKB Shotguns are the affordable choice of quality.

The Shooting Sports Showcase is pleased to welcome Sturm, Ruger & Co. has joined the growing list of companies exhibiting at the Shooting Sports Showcase next month in Talladega, AL. Public Relations Manager Paul Pluff said, “Ruger is proud to sponsor and exhibit at the Shooting Sports Showcase. This event will give us the opportunity to demonstrate the quality and reliability of our latest hot new products to some of the best media influencers today.”

Set for March 14-15, the Showcase is a private industry event created to give manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and media the chance to spend quality time on the range together without distractions and extensive travel requirements.

POMA Executive Director Thomas MacAulay said, “The feedback from last year inspired us to start working immediately on what we intend to make an annual event. Everyone loved the Park and being able to spend quality time with each other exploring new optics, firearms, ammo, and related products. This year we’re adding a meet-and-greet the night before the Showcase.” MacAulay went on to say he envisions the exponential growth of the event as more people learn about the spectacular location and the opportunities at hand.

Pre-registration is required so visit www.shootingsportsshowcase.com for all the information.

About Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

Long days on the water call for performance eyewear that provides comfort and protection from the sun’s rays. The best sunglasses don’t just feel great–they look great, too. Redfin Polarized frames deliver eye-catching style, on the boat, at the dock, and around town.

Redfin Polarized designs look sharp, whether rocking an SPF hoodie on the flats or casual wear at the local favorite watering hole. Redfin offers a variety of styles, from the sleek Jekyll to the lightweight, angular Hatteras and the 60’s mod retro shape of the Wassaw. For anglers, captains and outdoorsmen who prefer a roomier frame, the Big Ship, Sanibel and Outer Banks. 

All Redfin Polarized frames are handcrafted by artisans in northern Italy using state-of-the-art production techniques and marine-grade Swiss polymers. Each style offers matte black (and matte gray for Hatteras and Big Ship), and classic tortoise options are available on several models.

Redfin Polarized lenses are made by Carl Zeiss Vision, the world leader in optics technology, and offer 100% protection from harmful UVA, UVB, and UVC light. Ultra-light and ultra-clear, these lenses are built to last with a super-hard anti-scratch coating. They dissipate moisture quickly to prevent fogging from temperature changes and repel oil, water, dust and dirt.

The Redfin Polarized Off Shore collection fights glare and eye strain with tints built on a dark gray base lens. Lake Shore lenses offer optimal clarity for spotting fish in murky waters, and the Fly Tyer series assures maximum visible light transmission (VLT) on rivers and streams. A wide range of colors assures just the right tint for fishing, boating, driving or any other activity. 

TALLADEGA, Ala. – The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has announced a new series of awards for competitors who participate in the Talladega Marksmanship Park’s Monthly 800 Aggregate and Monthly 3X600 service rifle matches.

Like other CMP Monthly events, a Monthly Match League has been designed for the 800 Aggregate and 3×600 competitions – collecting and comparing scores accumulated at each match. League awards will be based on consistent participation in the events, with the top scores used to determine overall awards. Participants must fire in a minimum of seven 800 Aggregate or 3×600 Monthly Matches to be considered.

Individual recognitions, presented at the end of the year, will include Most Improved and High Junior as well as other special award categories and prizes. The Top Three competitors with the highest overall average scores will also be recognized and presented with seasonal discounts for the following year at Talladega Marksmanship Park. Third place will receive three free Monthly 800 Aggregate Matches, second place will receive five free Monthly 800 Aggregate Matches and the overall winner will receive all Monthly 800 Aggregate Match fees paid for the 2023 shooting season. The same prize structure will be used for the Monthly 3×600 event.

Questions on the Talladega Monthly Match Awards may be directed to Christina Roguski at  [email protected]. All questions on the Monthly 800 Aggregate and 3×600 Matches may be sent to Bret Lankford at [email protected]. 

Come be a part of this challenging and fun opportunity! Learn more about all of Talladega Marksmanship Park’s daily, monthly and annual events by visiting the CMP website at  https://thecmp.org/ranges/talladega-marksmanship-park/.

Millennium Marine’s commitment to comfort and quality is evident in all of their product lines, but none more so than their B-Series Boat Seats. Available in three models, each B-Series model shares features with the others while standing alone to offer ultimate comfort and durability.

Every B-Series boat seat features Millennium Marine’s ComfortMAX contoured, tight sling seat with breathable, cool fabric that won’t hold the morning dew and dries quickly after a rain shower. ComfortMAX material resists mold, mildew, and UV light to provide years of solid use, and the all-aluminum frame will not rot nor rust. No plastic components are used in B-Series seats.

Every Millennium B-Series boat seat carries a 1-year warranty and features a standard bolt hole pattern to allow them to be mounted on any standard boat seat pedestal. 

B100 Boat Seats feature a folding backrest with lumbar support, which folds down flatter than competitors’ seats, allowing better visibility when the boat is underway. Armrest straps are included and help support the seat back when it’s unfolded. With a generous 20” wide by 16.5” deep seat bottom, the B100 provides cool, breathable comfort in gray, green, tan or Mossy Oak® camouflage patterns.

Since Fall of 2020, all B-100s have been pre-drilled to accept the new B-101 Boat Seat Cable accessory. The B-101 Boat Seat Cables allow for additional stability on top of the arm strap. If the anglers want to remove the arm straps, they can do so and still keep their seats stable with the B-101 boat seat cables. If an angler has an older model, these cables come with instructions on adding these onto the seats. The B-101 Boat Seat Cables come in a pack of two.

EDGEFIELD, S.C.—The Michigan Department of Natural Resources received national recognition from the National Wild Turkey Federation for its collaborative conservation delivery throughout the state. 

“In Michigan, we’re blessed with an abundance of natural resources and wild places you don’t come across every day, providing the backdrop for hunting, fishing and all types of outdoor recreation and relaxation,” said Scott Whitcomb, director of the DNR’s Office of Public Lands. “This award recognizes sound, strategic stewardship of 4.6 million acres of state-managed land in Michigan, an achievement that would not be possible without conservation partners like the National Wild Turkey Federation. I’m honored to accept the award on behalf of the DNR and the passionate sportsmen and women who contribute to and benefit from this effort.”

Whitcomb accepted the Land Stewardship Award on behalf of Michigan DNR during the 46th annual NWTF Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak. 

This award honors companies (including individuals or projects supported by companies) and/or government agencies that promote wildlife habitat management.

Michigan DNR is at the forefront of keeping managed public lands open to the public, while maintaining high-quality habitat on these managed areas. The agency has a long history of collaborating with other state and federal agencies in larger landscape efforts to manage the public lands in Michigan. Moreover, the department has a long history of partnering with non-governmental organizations like the NWTF to accomplish habitat restoration and conservation projects on its lands.  

EDGEFIELD, S.C.—The National Wild Turkey Federation presented Jason Mitchell, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission wildlife biologist, with the Joe Kurz Wildlife Manager of Year Award, for his outstanding management of wild turkeys and wildlife habitat management. 

“I am humbled and honored to be selected to receive this award,” Mitchell said. “I honestly have to say that, to me, it reflects the teamwork and commitment of my coworkers, as well as the outstanding partnership, support and cooperation from the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Ouachita National Forest. Since I was 13 years old, I have had an obsession for wild turkeys, and I have been blessed with the opportunity to assist with research and habitat management projects to sustain our populations for current and future generations of sportsmen.”

Mitchell was recognized with the Joe Kurz Wildlife Manager of the Year Award at the 46th annual NWTF Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak. 

The NWTF named the Joe Kurz Wildlife Manager of the Year Award after the former Georgia Department of Natural Resources wildlife chief for his leadership and the vital role he played in improving wildlife management efforts. Kurz also was a principal figure in wild turkey trap-and-transfer programs across North America.

This award recognizes a current employee of a state fish, wildlife or forestry agency for their outstanding wild turkey conservation efforts.

Al’s Goldfish Lure Company, designer and American-made manufacturer of the classic Goldfish lure and other innovative fishing lures and accessories, will be exhibiting at the 18th Annual New England Saltwater Fishing Show in Providence, R.I. The event takes place March 11-13 at the Rhode Island Convention Center. 

Al’s Goldfish Lure Company will be among the more than five hundred other top manufacturers presenting products and services dedicated to the diehard saltwater fishing enthusiasts. It is the largest show in the Northeast dedicated purely to this market. The show is open to the public, so if people like what they see, most exhibitors will be offering their products for sale on-site. Visitors will also be able to participate in great seminars, a kids casting area and other special activities. 

“We encourage visitors at the show to stop by daily, as we have several special things to share with our customers this year. We are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the original Goldfish lure this year, and will have special commemorative Goldfish available,” said Jeff DeBuigne, who along with wife Mandy owns Al’s Goldfish Lure Company. “In addition, we are also making up for lost time with two saltwater products that we brought to market recently but were unable to showcase at this expo because of the pandemic closures. The first is our Fish Wrap Special Edition Saltwater Goldfish, a color and pattern developed by the Fish Wrap Writer himself, Todd Corayer. The other is the Wicked Wec High-Low Rig, developed by our product ambassador Mike Wec for bottom fishing for species such as fluke and black sea bass. As always, we will also have show specials, so this is a great opportunity to stock up at great prices.”

Al’s Goldfish Lure Company will be showcasing its entire line of premium fishing lures and accessories at the show. Whether you are an avid fisherman looking for new accessories, an experienced angler looking to upgrade your tackle box or someone totally new to the sport of saltwater fishing that is looking to learn about the sport and get started, you will find everything you need at Al’s Goldfish Lure Company’s booth, #0508. For more information on the line of American-made products from Al’s Goldfish Lure Company visit www.alsgoldfish.com.

About Al’s Goldfish Lure Company

Federal Ammunition recently hosted its annual Conservation Breakfast at the National Wild Turkey Federation’s (NWTF) 46th Annual Convention and Sport Show, held February 16-20, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee. Federal Premium Ammunition was also a Gobbler Sponsor of the event.

“We’re proud to be celebrating 100 years of continuous operation this year. As we’ve gone through our archives to prepare for our official birthday this April 27th, we’ve been reminded again of how important conservation is to the history of Federal and our entire industry,” said Jason Nash, Vice President of Marketing. “Since 1984 the National Wild Turkey Federation has been one of our great program partners. The organization and its dedicated staff, members and volunteers have been instrumental in benefitting game and habitat for future generations to enjoy.”

Federal Ammunition and the National Wild Turkey Federation have been working hand in hand for decades. The company has participated at every NWTF convention and has hosted the Conservation Breakfast for 39 years. Federal Ammunition is one of the five longest-running sponsors and the only licensed ammunition partner of the NWTF.

“We appreciate everything NWTF members do to grow our sport and pass along this great heritage,” continued Nash. “Our copper-plated Grand Slam, 3rd Degree and Heavyweight TSS loads are all a priority for us as we continue to share a portion of the proceeds from the sale of those products with the NWTF. We thank NWTF for their longstanding partnership with us and we look forward to another 100 years of improving habitat and growing the sport we all love.”

With turkey populations in good shape throughout much of the country, hunters anticipate a memorable 2022 season. Now they can go afield knowing Federal’s new Premium turkey loads will not only deliver consistent, devastating performance, but also help turkeys themselves through their partnership with the NWTF.

RICE LAKE, WI, Feb. 24, 2022

Leading lever action firearm manufacturer, Henry Repeating Arms, is donating a custom series of 55 “Miss Milah’s Miracle” edition rifles to raise funds for four-year-old Milah Schevenius of Decatur, Indiana. Milah was diagnosed with bilateral Wilms’ tumor at just 3-year-old, a rare occurrence affecting less than 10% of all children’s kidney cancer cases. All proceeds of the fundraising campaign will be presented to the Schevenius family to assist with the associated healthcare costs of Milah’s treatments.

In 2021, Milah underwent surgery to remove the affected kidneys, leaving her with less than half of her right kidney and no left kidney. A follow-up surgery was performed in December 2021, after a legion was found on her remaining partial kidney. Additionally, Milah is going through 42 weeks of chemo with radiation treatments at a children’s hospital in Indiana. She loves to color, play with her dolls, have tea parties, and spend time with her sisters. Milah wants to be a doctor when she grows up so that she can help kids going through what she is experiencing.

“Never judge a book by its cover, because this little girl is tough,” says Ryan Knapp, Milah’s grandfather. He continues, “She has been through more than anyone should in less than 4 years of life but does it with a smile and she does not quit.”

Anthony Imperato, CEO and Founder of Henry Repeating Arms says, “To go through what Milah and her family are going through in the middle of a worldwide pandemic is almost incomprehensible.” Imperato continues, “Milah’s courage is nothing short of inspirational, and I hope these rifles or the money raised gives her a reason to gift her family with a smile and a big hug.” Last year, Henry Repeating Arms raised over $75,000 for the families of two sick children with all rifles selling out within hours.

Have your last fishing trips ended with an empty bucket? Well, it’s common to go empty-handed when you go fishing. It also happens even with the most experienced enthusiasts every once in a while. But you should never let it stop you from going out and trying again. 

Although there are some facets of catching fish that you can’t control, there are also certain techniques and strategies that can dramatically increase your chances of catching more fish. 

The number one tip is to know the best spots for fishing. To catch more fish, you need to know where they live and eat. In this case, research becomes crucial as it will help you find the best fishing locations around the local area. 

It’s not that hard to find these places, though, because other fishing enthusiasts may have found the best fishing areas. Like-minded people often share locations on online forums and fishing websites.

Ideally, you should look for areas of water where there is food, cover, and where fish can easily blend in. Some of the proven locations where you can usually catch more fish include bridges, inlets, docks, points, and river banks. However, each fishing spot is unique. So, you will need to do your research first before heading out so you won’t go home with zero catch again.  

Bowhunters who pursue spring gobblers need stuff, and lots of it. A ground blind. A blind chair. Decoys. Your bow. And all that other stuff. How do you haul it quickly, easily, and safely from your truck to the field in one trip? And what if you’re a run & gun hunter, needing to move often during the day? You almost need to be an octopus to haul it all – unless you incorporate the Bow Spider bow packing system.

Bow Spider is the quickest and easiest hands-free bow retrieval system on the market. Here’s how it works. An aluminum arm attaches to the bow’s riser, and slides into a slot on the lightweight, injection-molded receiver, which can be worn on the included belt or attached via long bolts to other objects, including your backpack. You can choose either to temporarily or permanently mount Bow Spider to your pack. By using the straps provided it can be mounted temporarily. For a permanent or semi-permanent mount you can use the provided bolts. The bow is held securely in place via a gravity-locking system, yet slides out with minimal effort. It’s versatility also allows it to be mounted to the back of your car seat, tree trunks, a waist belt, binocular harness — any flat surface. The bow can be quickly and effortlessly removed with one hand when it’s time to swing back into action.

Now chasing gobblers is simple. Your calls, pruning tools, and other small accessories are in your turkey vest. Binocular and rangefinder on your chest in its harness. The blind on your back, backpack style. The chair in one hand, decoys in a decoy bag either slung over the blind or in the other hand. Your bow securely held in the Bow Spider on your belt. Boom! You’re off to the races with everything you need. Of course, all this can be modified to your individual needs – and the versatility of Bow Spider makes it the perfect accessory to do just that – keeping your hands free of carrying the bow.

The complete Bow Spider bow packing system comes in either green, tan, or black, and has a MSRP of $89.95. To see how easy, it is to use the Bow Spider, check out these video clips:  https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=bow+spider+packing+system. For more information on the entire Bow Spider product line, visit www.bowspider.com.

About Recreational Archery Development LLC (RAD, LLC): Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Kinnear, WY,  RAD, LLC  is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative products for the outdoor industry, including the Bow Spider brand of products. Bow Spider’s intuitive design makes bow retrieval fast and easy in any situation. The product is proudly made in the USA and gives one percent of all sales to conservation. The company also offers veterans a 15 percent discount on all products. (To take advantage of this offer orders need to be called in directly to the company at 307-438-9290.) For additional information on RAD, LLC and the Bow Spider brand of products write to: RAD, LLC, PO Box 171, Kinnear, WY 82516; call 307-438-9290; email [email protected]; visit www.bowspider.com.

EDGEFIELD, S.C.—The National Wild Turkey Federation’s Making Tracks with the USDA Forest Service awards recognize people and projects that best incorporate conservation education, partnerships and wild turkey management.

The NWTF presented the awards during its 46th annual Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak, to projects and programs that bolstered NWTF’s Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. goals.

Partnership Achievement Program: Daniel Boone National Forest

Through NWTF’s partnership with the Forest Service on the Daniel Boone National Forest, the two are working to improve forest health and wildlife habitat with forest management, including timber harvest, mid-story reduction, wildlife openings management and tree planting on more than 1,700 acres.

The DBNF staff went above and beyond for the NWTF as the organization was navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. The Forest Service staff stepped up to the plate and provided additional assistance with on-the-ground inspection and also provided additional dollars to hire an inspector.

The award-winning team from Heartland Waterfowl on the Sportsman Channel will be at the Kansas Open Season Sportsman’s Expo at the Overland Park Convention Center on Saturday, March 12. Heartland Waterfowl will offer a pair of presentations at the Croft Trailer Supply Booth at 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

The crew of Heartland Waterfowl have traveled across North America for a decade, filming a variety of waterfowl hunts in different flyways. The hunts have included Snow Geese in Saskatchewan, Mallards in North Dakota, Canada Geese in Kansas and Missouri to Sandhill Cranes in west Texas.

The experts from Heartland Waterfowl will share their experiences and discuss important waterfowl hunting topics such as scouting, concealment, weather, getting permission and necessary products. A Q&A session will be held as well as a meet and greet with Expo attendees.

There will also be a chance to register to win a Heartland Waterfowl Prize Pack, which will be awarded to a lucky attendee.

For more information on the Kansas Open Season Sportsman’s Expo and to purchase discount tickets in advance online, visit OpenSeasonSportsmansExpo.com.

Gamakatsu’s new series of extra wide-mouth tackle bags come in various sizes so anglers can take everything they need and nothing they don’t. The G-Bag EWM storage solutions open wide, giving anglers fast, easy access to tackle so anglers can rig up in a hurry and take advantage of a changing bite. 

The smallest bag in the new series, the G-Bag EWM 100, is the perfect size for holding a variety of soft plastic packs. The Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) provides easy access to the interior, and the internal wire frame keeps the top open while finding the right bait. The 8 x 4 x 6-inch size stows easily in other bags, and anglers can take as many as needed while remaining organized. Pick up a few and keep all smaller items organized and ready.

The larger 9.5 x 5 x 7-inch size of the G-Bag EWM 200 Tackle Bag stows more gear using the same innovative easy-access stay-open top. The 200 easily accommodates magnum packs of soft plastics and oversized bulk bags, so that anglers can stash their largest swimbaits or enough tubes for the season in one convenient location. In addition, there’s enough space to store a wide variety of tackle and gear, so anglers can keep rigging tools and other essentials handy as well. 

Stuff up to four Gamakatsu G-Box 3600 or eight 3200 utility cases into the G-Bag EWM 300 using the innovative Extra Wide Mouth opening. The biggest size in the lineup is designed to carry a variety of tackle comfortably, thanks to the adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap. The generous 13 x 8.5 x 11-inch bag lets anglers stockpile all of their finesse baits and power fishing lures in the same place so they can be prepared for anything.

All of the bags in the G-Bag EWM series feature water-resistant TPU construction that sheds water from rainstorms or the occasional rogue wave, so contents stay protected. Plus, a see-through I.D. tag window on the 100 and 200 size, allows anglers to slide in their customized labels for easy identification, so they grab the right bags for each trip. Anglers will always find the contents easily, courtesy of the Extra Wide Mouth and stay-open design.

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced Jim Fischer, DNR Mississippi River Team Leader, was presented the 2021 Rebecca Wallace Memorial Award from the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board during their meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022.

This prestigious award honors DNR employees who improve relationships with external partner agencies and organizations on environmental quality issues or mentor staff. The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board created the award as a memorial to DNR employee Rebecca Wallace, who was tragically killed alongside her husband in an automobile accident in 1997. Wallace served at the DNR for 18 years and was known for her dedication to her work and her ability to bring people together to problem solve.

Fischer began his career with the DNR as a water quality specialist at the Upper Mississippi River Restoration Monitoring Station in January 1993. In 2005, he became the Mississippi River planner and transitioned into his current position as team leader in 2011 where he serves as the DNR’s lead on the Upper Mississippi River Restoration program, administering critical environmental monitoring and habitat restoration programming.

“Fischer has spent his career dedicated to building the world-renowned Upper Mississippi River Restoration program, resulting in Wisconsin’s portion of the Mississippi River being in a healthier more resilient condition,” said Kirsten Wallace, Executive Director of the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association.

Fischer is well-known for his ability to develop and foster partnerships across a wide range of state, federal and non-governmental organizations. He understands the ecological needs of the Mississippi River and is a proven leader and mentor.