Everything Outdoors – Hunting, Fishing and Hiking

Archive for January, 2010

A hunting dog is any type of dog who helps humans when they go hunting. Each breed of Hunting dog has their own particular skill, so a hunter would choose their dog according to which kind of hunting they prefer. True Hunting Dogs get huge satisfaction from what they do and a good dog can make all the difference on a hunt. Let’s take a look at the different hunting dogs.

Hounds

There are three main kinds of hunting hounds: Sighthounds, scent hounds and lurchers.

Sighthounds, like the Whippet, have amazing eyesight and are extremely fast runners. Their way of hunting is called ‘coursing’. They see their prey – often from a huge distance – then they stalk, chase and kill it. These dogs are athletic, fast, very quiet and extremely independent. They are very affectionate and loyal to their owners and are good with small children. They make hopeless guard dogs as they’re so trusting!

Scent hounds, as you would imagine, use their sense of smell for hunting. Beagles, Basset Hounds and the American Coonhound all use their noses to track the prey. They very often hunt in packs and can chase game for a very long way before cornering it or killing it. These dogs have characteristic booming barks and soulful expressions.

Lurchers are primarily some kind of sighthound bred with a working dog.

Gun Dogs

Hunters take a gun dog along with them to bring back whatever has been shot. Retrievers are very good at remembering where prey has fallen and love to retrieve ducks or geese that have been shot and landed in water. A typical gun dog is very well trained and can follow commands from a long distance away. They are renowned for their ’soft mouths’ which means that they don’t leave a mark on the game that they have retrieved.

Spaniels are excellent for finding game and flushing it out of any hiding place. They are also greats swimmers, good family dogs and fiercely loyal.

Pointers are also loyal. They’re happy and affectionate dogs. Although they are bred to hunt, they make great pets as long as they get sufficient exercise. When they are hunting, they literally point! They find the game and then stop dead, letting the hunter know where it is. Once they are commanded, they flush the prey out for the hunter to shoot. Setters are good pointers.

One of the most famous pointers was Judy, a ship’s dog during the Second World War. Her special skill was to point where Japanese planes were coming from – long before any of the humans on board could even hear their engines! Judy was awarded the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross (the Dickin Medal) in 1946.

Terriers

Most of the animals that terriers help to hunt for are pests. For example, Jack Russells go after ground hogs and foxes in America and Terriers hunt badgers in the UK (legally and illegally!). Hunters who work with these dogs are called terriermen.

Curs

These are used in a similar way to terriers but the game that they hunt is usually larger, such as boars, raccoons and even cougars. Staffordshire Terriers and any other kind of hunting dog are often bred together to produce hunting curs.

Rebecca Prescott
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/learn-about-hunting-dog-breeds-77314.html

Coon hunting is one of North America’s favorite pastimes, apart from being a real blessing for farmers all across the continent. Raccoons are hunt for their precious fur as well as for their delicious meat but also because they destroy millions of dollars worth of crops nationwide each year, many farmers getting crop depredation permits to have hunters take the coons destroying their yields. Agile beings, excellent swimmers and climbers, the raccoons are a worthy challenge for any hunter.

Because these creatures are nocturnal, meaning they are active during the night, coon hunting is strictly done accordingly and using trained Hunting Dogs and the coon hunting lights, as well as a wide range of gears and supplies. They all play important roles in the success of a hunting session and choosing the right ones is crucial to the results you get. The hounds must be mature, agile, with a good nose for picking up raccoon scent and most of all, able to run through any kind of terrain including in and out of water. The hunting lights, with all their forms, shapes and alternative uses, are invaluable elements every raccoon hunter must bring to his game. All the other gear items and supplies do come secondly but they can improve your results drastically if you use them wisely and effectively.

Coon hunting is an activity that hides many secrets even from experienced hunters but the basic, most critical thing every hunter must know is where exactly to hunt for raccoons. As elementary as it sounds, many beginners neglect the aspect of scouting for a location ahead of time and find themselves in an area where the furry creatures are very few in numbers, thus having a good chance of being a failed hunting attempt. Hunting should be done in areas where you know raccoons are feeding, such as woods along rivers or streams as well as in areas where there are den trees are good. If you are going to hunt on a private land don’t forget to ask permission from the owners in advance, because otherwise it is punishable by law in many states.

Although raccoons are hunted for their delectable meet and for the fact that they are a threat to many farmers’ activity, they are especially wanted for their precious fur coats. Raccoon hunters know that the fur is heaviest in late winter and earlier furs will not be as thick and will not bring top price when they sell them at the fur auction. The fur is very durable and is used for coats and collars and for trimming winter gloves and hats. So remember that large raccoons with thick coats will bring you the best earnings.

All in all, coon Hunting can be an entertaining and rewarding activity if you keep in mind the basic facts and dedicate your focus on putting them to good use. Concentrate on getting as many raccoons as you can and don’t let occasional disappointments ruin your day. In doing so you’ll hardly be able to wait until the next season’s start, and this can only mean bad news for the furry bandits.

Razvan Jr
http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/coon-hunting-and-its-various-social-and-economical-aspects-111922.html

Getting out on the ocean for a Los Cabos fishing cruise will help you unwind, and clear your mind. If you enjoy your fishing then you’ll savor a fishing trip in Cabo San Lucas. You’ll realize you’re in the right place as soon as you enter the marina. There are fisherman all over the place, and plenty of companies to rent your boat from.

There’s a boat for everyone for your Cabo San Lucas fishing cruise. You can select from a small two-man panga to 100 ft+ yachts. The yachts not only allow you the luxury of Baja fishing, but you can drink, eat and sleep in them as well. Fishing is Los Cabos’s most popular sport, and you’re taken care of while your enjoying yourself.

Most of the boats you can rent have some excellent equipment on them to help locate where the fish are swimming and feeding in the ocean. All the boats come with your very own captain to guide you to the best parts of the sea. They have been Fishing the waters in Cabo san lucas for years, and they will assist you with everything you need. The captains are not just there to assist you in catching the marine life, they’re in competition with the other captains so they have a hunger for you to catch as much marine life as you can.

If you’re in no doubt that you’re going to do some fishing in Cabo San Lucas before you arrive you can book your charters in advance online, or you can phone them up. Another option for is, wait until you’re at the marina and ask some of the other fisherman which boats are catching the most fish at that time. A few fisherman prefer this approach because some of the Los Cabos fishing companies have more productive fishing trips if they know where to fish at that particular time.

If you’re looking around the Marina though you probably will get approached by people claiming to know the waters. And they will try and convince you that they will give you a good day’s fishing. Avoid these people as many fisherman on vacation have either not gone on any Cabo fishing trip after handing over their money, or it wasn’t the fishing trip that was prearranged.

The nutrient rich waters around Los Cabos offer you a variety of marine life you can catch. The Sea Of Cortez is the planet’s youngest sea which was created when the East Pacific Rise split the Baja Peninsula away from Mexico.

The variety of marine life you can catch during your Baja fishing trip include: Blue marlin, Sail fish, Yellow fin tuna and many more.

If you have never been Marlin fishing before it’s an experience you’ll want to have a go at again. Just to feel the power of one of these fish on the end of your fishing rod is unbelievable. Sometimes they can take an hour and a half to reel in. It’s a million miles away from fishing at a river back in your hometown.

Your Cabo San Lucas fishing trip is going to be a great day out. Remember to take your sun block as the sun is on you all day in Los Cabos, and remember your camera to save those Cabo fishing memories.

Jennifer King
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/enjoy-the-freedom-of-a-cabo-san-lucas-fishing-expedition-349119.html

Tell me where I can find some accessories for my crossbows!

When looking for your crossbows and accessories, why not try an online search for all your accessorizing needs. The Internet carries every type of accessory that you would need to outfit your crossbows with all the latest gear to not only make your bow a thing of beauty but also a deadly companion on the hunt. They can outfit many different types of bows by makers such as Ten Point and Horton, just to name a few. Why not just shop on the internet here and get everything that you need at one stop? This way, you don’t have to run all over town to find just what you want and need for that bow, or better yet, try out their selection of bows from these three fabulous makers?

Well, tell me what the internet has to offer customers who have crossbows?

It offers such things for your crossbows as scopes, guards, cleaning kits, cables, and lubricants along with arrows, quivers, and cocking airs for your crossbows. They even carry the entire line of Ten Point and Horton bows so that you have a lot of variety to choose from. They also carry vanes, pads and cranks. They have everything that you would need to get a bow in shape for the Hunting season. Heck, they even carry Fishing rigs for your bows. How many others do that? As I said, the internet has it all and is proud to offer you the full line of bows and accessories that will compliment any bow and bow owner. They have it all for you here in one place!

Sounds like you have a wide assortment of crossbows and accessories!

You bet your boots they do! They pride ourselves on the quality and quantity of the crossbows and accessories for your crossbows! That is why they call themselves a “one stop shop”. They have many different choices when it comes to outfitting your bow, that you would be hard pressed to find someone else with their quality, quantity and price selection. So why not stop in online and take a look around. You are certain to find what you need, and if you don’t see it, ask about it! An internet site probably can order what you need if it don’t have it in stock for your Ten Point and Horton bows. You can also ask about special order accessories as well for your bows.

Do you carry any other lines of crossbows?

Actually, online internet sites do. They will also carry the Eastman line of bows. These bows have the same composition as the other bows do. They will also carry accessories for the Eastman line of bows. You might say that The internet is a multiple team bow carrier here. These many lines make up the internet’s stock in trade. They have something for everyone from the beginner to the expert marksman. They have a full line that is just waiting to be explored. So, come on in and see what they are all about. Find out why shopping the best, you won’t have time for the rest!

Jennifer Walterscheit
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/where-can-i-find-accessories-for-my-crossbows-570354.html

I go fishing a lot and I catch lots of fish. How to i know the type of fish i catch?

If you’re in the United States, you can consult your state’s fish and game proclamation. The proclamation is a collection of the rules, regulations, and other information for fishing in your state’s fisheries. The proclamation should have descriptions of all the fish you are likely to catch in your state. It will also discuss limits, sizes, and other stuff like which fish are native to your area and which are nonnative or pest species. It will include descriptions of fish that are endangered or threatened. A good proclamation will have color illustrations or photos of the fish, at least for species that are difficult to distinguish.

You may catch fish that you can’t identify, even with the help of a Fishing proclamation — ask people who are local to your area, especially the old-timers. Or, take a picture and come back here to ask. There are people here who know fish from Florida to Alaska and everywhere between. A book with fish species in your area can help, too, but eventually you will just know what’s what.

You should probably know what’s what before you fish a lot — you wouldn’t want to get caught with the wrong kind of fish or the wrong number of certain fish. It can result in big fines.

I live in florida and am going to go fishing in the everglades. I have two questions.

1. What is the best bait to use when Fishing in the everglades
2. What is the best type of fish to fish for

Large shiners. The best fish to fish for would be the Bass. They get pretty big out here and double digit bass is the norm. Use a float or free line them near structure ( Lilly pads, logs, sunken trees, etc.) and hold on tight. I have to tell ya, large shiners are a bit expensive ( depending on area, can run up to 12 bucks a dozen) but worth the money for a memory of a lifetime.~good luck catchin’.

Don’t worry, I’m not with that nameless twit who was proclaiming himself the world’s most ethical hunter.
But what do you consider to be the right things to do on a hunt? The obvious things are knowing what you’re shooting at, hunting only in designated seasons and areas, and using the appropriate tool for the game. What else do you have?
Thanks for any useful answers.
So many of you seem to be saying the same things. Great minds think alike, eh? Thanks for all the answers so far.

1. Respect for the land/land owner and those that are hunting around you.
2. Too many hunters disturb the Hunting area’s of others with no regard. Not only know what you are shooting at but know that you can make an accurate shot/kill. Too many hunters unload their guns because thay are not patient enough to wait for that right moment.
3. Button Bucks and yearlings should be a no-no.
4. Good citizens/human beings typically make good hunters. Follow the laws and listen to those that are older and more experienced and you should be o.k..

*Answered by Skittle’s Hubby.

I hunt in maine and it isnt too too rainy but in the turkey season up here there is rainy weather. do i hunt like i usually would? or are there any other tactics i should use?… I have a blind set up in a corner of a field just about 3-5 feet in a tree line. Also this is my first year so any other tips would be wounderful, such as calls, sents, camoflage, or anything else you think would be important. Thanks and good Hunting,

I stay in bed, But when I hunt I try to get them Close to when they first fly down, before they go to the fields. set at the edge of the woods and field. They don’t talk even if you shock them and even when they are in the roast.They come back in the woods early usually in the pines and not their normal hardwoods. Calls for a beginner is a box call they work even good for experienced hunters and are easy to wok. Turkeys can not smell. but can see well even colors and smallest movement. so blend in with dead falls or trees and have shoot lanes and cover.don’t over call your first call if the bird calls back he know exactly where you are. Use decoys, this make a hot bird come in when he sees them and looks at the instead of looking around and seeing you. Turkeys can see and hear ten times better than a deer. Always shoot at the top of the head never body shoot. Try to shoot when his head is up not while in a strut. Use a turkey or full choke. Keep your shots within 40 yards. Good luck and have fun When you hear your first gobble you will be hooked.

Labrador Retrievers have become the most popular dogs in the United States. Having reached the top, they have stayed there for a number of years, and seem reluctant to relinquish the crown.

Many of the Labradors that have found homes as a result of the breed’s popularity have become pets, but this dog was, and continues to be bred as a retrieving gun dog.

Labrador Puppies Hunting Homes

Visit a breeder or animal shelter, and you find many Labrador puppies hunting homes. Some will be purebred, AKC-registered dogs. Some will be mixed breed. Some will be bred for pets, while others will be bred for show. If you want Labrador puppies for hunting, however, you will want to look for specific characteristics.

Breeder

The best Labrador puppies for hunting are probably those that come from a good breeder. The breeder should be acquainted with the standard for the breed. More importantly, though, the breeder should be dedicated to, and passionate about, training, breeding, and Hunting Labrador Retrievers.

Ask basic questions. Does the breeder use only breeding stock that comes from the finest field trial and hunt test lines available? Ask to see pedigrees of the breeding dogs. Ask to see proof of awards won.

Does the breeder monitor the health of breeding dogs? Are their Labs’ eyes and hips screened for genetic disorders before breeding? Will they guarantee the health of the Labrador puppies’ eyes and hips for a period of time? Do they keep kennels clean, clearly disinfected?

Are testimonials available from customers who have purchased Labrador puppies for hunting? Is there a possibility of talking directly to any of those people to learn more?

Labrador Puppies

Observe the puppies carefully, and ask questions. It won’t be too hard to choose the puppies that look nicest to you, but there are more important matters at stake if you want Labrador puppies for hunting.

Run through the following check list. Labrador puppies that have all or most of these 7 features are likely to be the most trainable for hunting. The 7 features are not necessarily listed in order of importance.

1. The Labrador puppies have been well socialized, including learning to be comfortable with children as well as adults: learning to get along with other dogs; introduction to birds; crate conditioning; and kennel conditioning.

2. The Labrador puppies have been introduced to water if the season permits.

3. They are obviously intelligent.

4. They are bright and alert when playing.

5. All of the Labrador puppies have respected pedigrees.

6. All of the Labrador puppies have had quality veterinarian care, being wormed, and receiving necessary shots.

7. They are clean and shiny.

New Owner

No matter how wonderful the Labrador puppies hunting homes are, if they are going to be Labrador puppies for hunting, the new owner will have a lot of responsibility. You will have to take those intelligent, energetic, eager Labrador puppies and teach them to retrieve birds for you. To do so, you may want to consider the following points.

1. It is a fallacy that your Labrador puppies must stay outside in a kennel if they are going to be good Hunting Dogs. Labrador puppies bond with their owners better, and develop much better temperaments if they are permitted to live indoors with the family.

2. For the first 5 or 6 months, you may want to teach your Labrador puppies little else than retrieving. That is, you may want to teach them to come when called. This is of topmost importance in retrieving. It is also important when an emergency arises, such as an unexpected vehicle, a snake, etc. It is a lesson that human children also should learn from a young age. You want your Labrador puppies to learn that “Come” means immediately running directly to you.

3. Some puppies are taught to sit when they are very young, but they receive so much praise, all they want to do is sit. Some are started out with an obedience course that would be used for any pet dog. They learn to obey many commands, but end up not wanting to add retrieving to the list.

4. Keeping Labrador puppies in the house allows you to use the hallway as an early “retrieving ground” for the puppies. When you throw a dummy down the hall, they have nowhere to go but back to you. As the puppies learn, you can sit to one side of the hallway, making them come directly to you. If they try to run past you, you can easily capture them.

If you are not experienced at training Labrador puppies for hunting, you may want to enlist a trainer who is, or follow use of the many books that offer complete training programs. Finally, even though you got your Labrador puppies for hunting, enjoy their undying affection and humor.

Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/labrador-puppies-for-hunting-120364.html

When you become a serious angler you know that the Fishing rod you choose can mean the difference between having a great fishing day and having a bad one. If your fishing rod can not live up to its expectations, then it pulls the rest of your equipment down with it. You need to make sure that the crappie fishing rod you choose will not hinder your efforts when fishing for that big one. You need a rod that provides you with the catch of the day instead of the story about the big one that got away. Below are some crappie fishing rod reviews that will help you decide which rods will be best for you.

The B’n'M Ultimate Crappie Rod

The B’n'M Ultimate Crappie Rod is designed especially for catching crappie, walleye or bass because you can cast, flip or jig with it. You can even rig for live baiting action or for jigging. It is a very strong rod that provides excellent tip action. You can buy either the 8ft or 10 ft rod. What most anglers like the best about this particular rod is that even though it is strong enough to haul in the big fish, it is also sensitive enough so you can feel live bait wiggling on the hook. Many anglers agree it is a great buy as you can tell by the five start rating it has received.

The Ozark Crappie Spinning Rod

The Ozark Crappie Spinning Rod is made from a lightweight IM7 graphite structure. It has a cork handle with stainless steel guides. It is a great rod for spin fishing and the distance it will cast is really good. You will find that it is also a very sensitive rod while still being strong enough to haul in large fish. This makes the Ozark Crappie Spinning Rod great for trying to catch even the largest crappie. These rods received a five star rating as well.

Quantum Xtralite XP Crappie Rod

If you are a serious angler that is searching for a rod that can withstand the test of time, you will love the Quantum Xtralite XP crappie Rod. It was designed by Todd Huckabee and can provide you with three techniques for crappie fishing. Therefore, they are great for dipping, rigging and trolling. They are designed with graphite blanks and reel seats. This rod has a natural cork and fantastic ultralight action that you will simple fall in love with.

Ozark Rod Co. Crappie Rear Seat Jigging Rods

If you are in need of a jigging rod this one is a great choice. It is designed with stainless steel guides and a cork handle. The rear reel seat makes it possible to balance the rod so you have more control over it. It can be broken down into two pieces so it is much easier to carry around than the original length rods made for jigging. This one received a five star rating from anglers that have had the opportunity to give it a try.

Ozark Crappie Slow Trolling Rod

If you do a lot of trolling when fishing you will find that the Ozark Crappie Slow Trolling Rod gives a great performance. Since you will find the need to use heavy sinkers from time to time, you need a rod strong enough to support this weight. This rod is designed with fiberglass E-Glass to make it stronger. As you know it can be difficult to know when a crappie is taking the bait so this trolling rod is designed with colored tips to help out in this area. It also can be broken down into two pieces to make it simple to travel with and for easy storage.

Daniel Eggertsen
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/reviews-of-crappie-fishing-rods-308350.html