FIrst Squirrel Hunt of the Season

Hunting season is just kicking off and the first squirrel hunt of the year yielded no squirrels. We didn’t hunt long and this was basically a short outing just to get things going for the year. We did see some ducks in the creek and the minnow trap had some tadpoles and small fish in it so it wasn’t a complete loss.

Squirrel hunting can be fun, but it can also be a good practice run for deer season. My son loves deer hunting, but deer season isn’t open and a few squirrel hunting trips help to prepare him. Because he is 10 years old, being still and quiet doesn’t come naturally. Actually during deer season is the only time being still and quiet is even considered. Squirrel season is a good time to practice the hunting skills and make sure the hunting gear still fits. We did find out today the boots had a tear so we will be making a trip to buy another pair.

The main thing was the time we spent together outside doing things we enjoy. Nothing can take the place of quality time with your son, because they grow up so fast!

Careful With A Bow

When you are new to shooting a bow you must be careful. It is a good idea to have the help of an experienced archer. There are basic safety practices that are a must!

Getting Ready For Hunting Season

Here is a link to a great article about getting ready for hunting season. Click here for the link.

What to Take With You Hunting

A hunting pack can grow, and grow if you aren't careful. It is very important to have ample supplies, but sometimes less is more. There are a few essentials that are always a good idea to take in the woods with you. Of course, how far from the truck, or hunting camp you plan on being determines what you will need.

One of the most important things to have is a cell phone. It goes without saying that you don't want someone calling you, but it is good to have a phone for emergencies. As always it is crucial to let other people know your hunting location and when you plan on returning. When you shoot a deer it is good to call your hunting buddy and let them know you are leaving your stand. Even if you know the terrain and getting lost isn't a concern, if you fall it is good for others to know which way you went.

A trusty flashlight, with good batteries, is very important. It is great to have with you in the morning to walk to your stand and in the afternoon to get out of the woods safely. It is also good, especially on public land, because it lets other hunters that might not be so careful to let them know you aren't a deer. Very few deer have flashlights so it makes it hard to be mistaken for a deer.

A good piece of rope is also very useful for a variety of reasons. It can help you pull out your deer, and pull up your (unloaded) gun to your stand. It can also be useful for many other things and although you may go for a long time without using it ropes aren't very heavy and take up very little space.

A good hunting knife is also very important. The obvious reason is to field dress your deer, but it is good for a survival situation if you ever find yourself stranded. Making fires, making shelter, cutting vines are just a few ways a knife can come in useful. If you have your skinning knife honed to a razor sharp edge you may want to carry another knife for other purposes.

There are other items that go without saying, like extra shells, gloves, a whistle, compass (or GPS), and any calls you may be planning on using. There are many other items can come in useful, but these are some things that you need every time you enter the woods.

How to Tie a Knot

Make sure you have the correct knot is very important. Here is a great article explaining how to tie one of the most popular knots. Click here

Great Article About Fishing Small Creeks

Here is a great article I found about fishing small creeks. Click here for the article.

Lipless Crankbait Article

I found this great article about lipless crankbaits. The website is bassdozers.com and I hope you enjoy the article. Click here for the article.

Simple Pleasures

It isn’t necessary to hunt or fish in order to have a great time outdoors. All it takes is a little time and some people you love and a simple trip to a creek can be loads of fun. Those of us that love to fish and hunt can sometimes become possessed if we aren’t careful. Most of us agree the fun isn’t predicated upon the number of animals we harvest, but rather the fun we have with those we love.

I love getting outside with my two young kids and it doesn’t have to be a big trip to have some fun. Unfortunately, I don’t get to do things outdoors with them every day due to this little thing called a job, but just a few minutes can build a lifetime of memories. Taking a simple trip to a creek can be loads of fun and you never know what is going to happen. Kids are very creative and can find loads to do with regardless of the circumstances.

It is great to get ready for hunting season or prepare for a day chasing trophy fish, but just spending a little quiet time on a creek can still be a great time.

Great Blog

Here is a great blog I found that highlights Southeastern Outdoors. Click here for the link.