The Outpost

SURF FISHINGSURF FISHING

TROUT TROUT ADVENTURE ADVENTURE

TRAILTRAIL

BOWFISHINGBOWFISHING

RADIO FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORSRADIO FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

SALT WATER SALT WATER FLY FISHINGFLY FISHING

THE THE FLORIDA KEYSFLORIDA KEYS

GET YOUR GUN GET YOUR GUN IN SHAPEIN SHAPE

PLUS: RECIPES, THE OUTPOST MUSIC & MOREPLUS: RECIPES, THE OUTPOST MUSIC & MORE

WIN WIN GEAR!GEAR!

ALABAMA ALABAMA PHOTO CONTESTPHOTO CONTEST

NEW DUCKNEW DUCKNUMBERSNUMBERS

& PARTIES

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TROUT ADVENTURETRAIL

SURF FISHING BOW FISHINGFLORIDA KEYS

36

11 GETTING YOUR GUN AND YOU IN SHAPE

15 WHERE ARE THE CATFISH

19 RECIPES CATFISH FERAL HOG

THE OUTPOST MUSIC

28 OUTPOST GEAR

4022 56

33 ALABAMA PHOTO CONTEST

46 SALT WATER FLY FISHING

59 SMART BAITS

51

60 DUCK NUMBERS

65 TAKING OFF TICKS

66 PHOTO OTM

67 GUIDES 71 THE BACK WOODS

OF CONTENTS

Editor’s Letter:

Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about fi rearms sales unless we own stock in Winchester/Browning (NYSE: OLN) or Strum Ruger (NYSE: RGR). However, the folks at the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) do and what they’ve dis-covered about fi rst time gun buyers is interesting for outdoor en-thusiasts to consider.

The “executive summary” of this research reveals that most fi rst time gun buyers are involved in one or more shooting activity and women are motivated to buy that fi rst gun largely for person-al defense. No surprises here. However, digging into the details of this study reveal several nuances that worth a couple of para-graphs, especially if you’ve tried (unsuccessfully) to buy ammo at your local gun store recently.

THE DEVIL IN THE DETAILS

The study, “NSSF Report: First-Time Gun Buyer,” was done to help determine the motivations for the fi rst fi rearm purchase and how these fi rearms are being used. The online research was conducted in March/April 2013 and involved consumers aged 22 to 65 who bought their fi rst fi rearm during 2012.

KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY INCLUDE

• The majority of fi rst-time buyers (60.3 percent) tend to be ac-tive, using their gun once per month or more, with one in fi ve reporting usage of once a week or more.

• Target shooting is by far the most popular shooting activity among fi rst-time gun owners, with 84.3 percent of respondents saying they used their fi rearms for this purpose, followed by hunting (37.7 percent). Practical pistol shooting (17.3 percent) and clay-target shooting (14.6 percent) were shooting sports also enjoyed by fi rst-time buyers.

• The top-ranking factors driving fi rst-time gun purchases are home defense (87.3 percent), self-defense (76.5 percent) and the desire to share shooting activities with family and friends (73.2 percent). Women, in particular, are highly focused on per-sonal defense and self-suffi ciency.

• Here’s an interesting factoid. Older fi rst-time buyers – the 55 to 65 age group – indicated concern that fi rearms may no longer be available to them was one of many reasons for their purchase.

Companies that manufacture guns and ammunition will be pouring over this research in greater detail and if you’re interested and you’re a member of NSSF, you too can dig into the data. Here’s the member link: www.nssf.org/mem-bers Log in and select NSSF Industry Research.

SO WHAT?

This data represent a great opportunity for those of us who enjoy hunting. First time gun buyers of both genders are the future of hunting. If we give them encouragement and information – without going into information-overload and pontifi cating about the good ‘ol days about the sport we love – they might become people who respect the outdoor sports and the land and environment that makes these sports possible.

The trend towards more women learning about fi rearms and hunting is great news for the sport. Getting kids in-terested and trained in fi rearm safety, their use and then getting them out on the dove fi eld or deer stand is THE most important thing that hunters can do to continue this ancient tradition. Why?

When more people learn about the fun, camaraderie and excitement of hunting, more hunting licenses will be purchased and more wildlife habitat can be protected by the states and feds, benefi tting all of us. When there are more people comfortable (i.e. not afraid) of recreational guns, there will be fewer negative, knee-jerk reactions to hunting and gun ownership. When there are more kids in the fi eld, pursuing wild game, there will be fewer kids in front of computers and TVs and less childhood obesity and juvenile inspired mayhem.

We hope you enjoy this issue of The Outpost. We packed it with news you can use. Check out this month’s destina-tion: The fi shing Mecca of the Florida Keys. We also have some tips on a sport that capturing the imagination of an-glers – saltwater fl y fi shing. We have news about outdoor photo contests, how to get your gun and yourself ready for dove season, duck numbers and cool, new CDs from John Fogarty and “The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County.”

We’d love to hear from you. Let know what outdoor activi-ties you’d like to know more about. I answer every email so shoot me one. [email protected].

Later,Art YoungEditor – The Outpost

FIELD NOTES FROM OUTPOST READERS Loved the gator hunting article. Give us more gators! BDSouth Florida Way to go Donny (Bartow). Gator-dun boy. HunterChick (Referring to Donny GatorMan Bartow) You’re on the cover dude! WhitGeorgia

THE OUTPOSTGorilla Marketing, LLC • 770-675-7200Jason Martin, Partner • Jim Zegers, King of the Jungle • Art Young, Editor in ChiefContributing Writers: Art Young, Jim ZegersPhoto Credits: Jason Martin, Kirk Driskell, Tonly Martin, Taryn Martin, Brian Smith, Hayden Guynes,Flickr Commons, Michael Dunn, Barbara Hicks-Cooper, Chris Swaffer Baker, Nicole Zegers, Brian Baker, Jake Guynes, Jack Unruh, Chris Yates, Lisa Campbell Walls, Florida Bow FishingSpecial thanks to the Alabama photo winners: Joe Patrick, Taylor Mathews, Roxanne Kelly, Erin Kerner, Ron Burkett, James Hybart III, Jeff Johnston, Richard Curtin, Michael Clements, Pete Dobbs, Lisa Comer, Michael Riffe, Brad Lackey, Keith Bozeman, Jenna Burgess, Debbie Goddard, Leslie Kirk

THE OUTPOST© is produced and copyrighted 2013 by Gorilla Marketing LLC, Marietta GA 30062. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is expressly forbidden.

I am not sure about you, but I would never ever go Rattle-snake hunting. In fact, I would pay someone NOT to take me. Always love the music reviews. Thanks for putting out a great publication!

CaseyPittsburgh, PA

Haven’t read this article but I am hoping that a Sportsman’s Magazine would be talking about burial plots for deer and not food plots. As I western deer and elk hunter I am dia-metrically opposed to food plots or baiting of big game in any form.

Tight lines,

Phil

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2012 DEER HUNTING SPECIAL EDITIONSPECIAL EDITION

MAKE THAT 300 YARD SHOT!!!MAKE THAT 300 YARD SHOT!!!

DEER DEER HUNTING HUNTING CHECKLIST CHECKLIST

HOW TO CAMO HOW TO CAMO YOUR GUN YOUR GUN VIDEOVIDEO

FIELD DRESSING A FIELD DRESSING A DEER VIDEODEER VIDEO

RATTLING ANTLERSRATTLING ANTLERS

WHY IN-HAND WHY IN-HAND SCORING OF BUCKS SCORING OF BUCKS IS ON ITS WAY OUTIS ON ITS WAY OUT

ISSUE VII

PLUS: VENISON RECIPES, SQUIRREL HUNTING & MUMFORD & SONS

THE BUCK STOPS HERETHE BUCK STOPS HERE

SCENT CONTROLSCENT CONTROL CHEF KEVIN GILLESPIECHEF KEVIN GILLESPIE

QUAILHUNTINGHUNTING

ISSUE IX

OUTPOST FICTION

PATTERNING PATTERNING A SHOTGUNA SHOTGUN

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CASHING IN ON CASHING IN ON WINTER VARMENTSWINTER VARMENTS

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SHOOTING THE SHOOTING THE MOONMOON

MOUNTAINMOUNTAIN BIKINGBIKINGGETTING INTO SHAPE GETTING INTO SHAPE

FOR OUTDOORS SPORTSFOR OUTDOORS SPORTS

ISSUE IX

Maybe your shoulders and arms are sore. You might need some upper-body rehab. Before your next

adventure, try this.

The all new Stand Up Grinder by Hudson is perfect for the hunter or fi sherman whose shoulders and arms have been worn down by repetitive motion. Why go

the gym when you can build upper body strength, while you’re watching the game on TV.

Don’t let soreness or the onset of arthritis affect your hunting and fi shing fun. To shoot better and cast

farther, order the Hudson Fitness UBE now.

Call (888.239.4559), say you heard about Stand Up Grinder in The Outpost and get $600.00 off.

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CAN YOU SWING A SHOTGUN

OR CAST A LINE

LIKE YOU USED TO?

PROBABLY NOT

11

GETTING YOUR SHOTGUN AND YOURSELF READY FOR BIRD SEASON

With bird season just around the corner, August is a great time to get your gun and yourself ready. If you’re like most people, you haven’t picked up that gun since you cleaned it after your last duck hunt or spring turkey hunt. Hopefully, you gave it a good scrubbing and oiling before putting it back in its offseason stor-age place.

If you’re a lazy slug and didn’t clean it well after your last hunt, you defi nitely need to get some cleaning and lubricating done before September 1st. After this chore is completed, you might also consider getting those eyes and hands back into hunting shape too. Here’s how you can get your gun and yourself ready to rock and roll on opening day.

HOW TO CLEAN THAT NASTY GUN

I’m hard on guns. I’m not proud of this, but it’s true. As a result, I’ve always used a simple, pump action 12 and 20 gauge shotgun for bird hunting. In one year, my poor Remington 870 was: (1) dropped in a muddy stock tank during dove season, (2) dragged by its sling through a corn fi eld during pheasant season by a less than obedient but fun-loving dog and (3) covered with mud and water from walking waist-deep in a rice fi eld during a goose hunt. As you can see, I’m not worthy of an expensive, well-crafted shotgun. I’d just ruin it.

However, after every hunt, I get out my well-worn, ancient cleaning stuff, my scrubbing spray and clean out the barrels and working parts and oil ‘em up. I’ve used that 870 every year for the past 20 years and it’s still the best shotgun I’ve ever fi red. Plus, it is practically indestructible. Even by me!

If you are lucky enough to have a cool shotgun such as a Benelli auto-loader or even a workhorse like my 870, try to keep it out of the mud and muck and clean it every time you bring it home from a hunt. Here are some suggestions.

First off, remember what your daddy or

granddaddy told you many years ago, “as-

sume the gun is loaded…every time you

pick it up.” This is especially true when

you’re about to clean it. Every year, hun-

dreds of people are killed

or blinded by shotguns

that were supposed to be

unloaded. Before you

start the cleaning,

double and triple

check that the

gun is empty.

FOR A PUMP-ACTION SHOTGUN:

Point the muzzle away and keep fi ngers off the trigger

Press the bolt release (usually in front of or behind the trigger guard).

Cycle the pump action. Repeat until no shells are visible in the magazine tube or in the chamber. Be double-sure your fi rearm is unloaded. You do not want an unexpected boom while cleaning your fi rearm.

For an Auto-loading Shotgun

Be sure you always handle your fi rearm safely. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, treat the fi rearm as if it were loaded, and keep your fi nger off the trigger.

Pull the bolt-grip back, and release it. Repeat until no shells are visible in the magazine tube or in the chamber.

Keep your ammunition separate from your shotgun while cleaning.

12

Cleaning and Oiling

Cleaning a pump-action shotgun doesn't need to be a lengthy process. As long as undue amounts of sand or dirt have not gotten into the action, the shotgun should function reliably. If you need to do a more extensive cleaning, or are using an auto-loading shotgun, this is the process: No stripping is needed; opening and closing the bolt as required is suffi cient. If the gun is extremely dirty, don’t gamble on having a ruined hunt, take it to a gunsmith and have it professionally cleaned and oiled.

Wipe down all components using some paper towel (or cloth, but this is less important to be lint-free).

o Remove as much of the thick, caked-on carbon buildup created by the friction of use. Also wipe off any old oil and all “unburnt” powder buildup.o Be sure to wipe the ejector and the area around the chamber. You will fi nd certain areas turn the paper towel black (clean these areas more).

Spray solvent (preferably designed to be safe to continually contact your skin, like M-Pro 7) on all possibly dirty components.

o A liberal amount of solvent is better than not enough.

Let the solvent sit for a couple minutes. Make sure any area with dirt, carbon buildup, or “unburnt” powder has a healthy amount of solvent on it, soaking in.

Scrub the whole gun with a brush (no metal bristles — like a toothbrush). This works in the solvent and loosens up the buildup on the gun. Try to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Wipe the gun clean with lint-free cloth (you can buy pre-cut cloth, but a clean old shirt or socks also work). Get everywhere you put the solvent (should be pretty much everywhere) and wipe it until it wipes clean.

Wipe down the whole gun (inside and out) with a solvent-soaked lint-free cloth again, and look again for any areas turning the cloth dark, and clean it.

Use the pick to get off any thick chunks of carbon or powder buildup, or buildup in tight parts of the gun.

o The most common area with carbon deposits is in the chamber. Buildup occurs in the corners of the pieces of metal.

Swab the barrel with a cloth soaked with solvent. Repeat with clean cloths (still soaked in solvent) until a cloth comes out clean. Then swab it with an oil-soaked cloth, this coat of oil will protect your barrel from oxidation (rusting).

o A quick-and-dirty method for a less precise cleaning would be just to run a bore snake through the barrel.

Oil all the components requiring lubrication. Often the manual for the gun will have specifi c areas needing oil, but a quick look at where the gun is wearing will give you a good indication of the needs. Be sure to oil the rails for the bolt and the bolt itself.

o Try to keep oil away from the openings into the fi ring pin housing (oil is a collector of dirt and powder buildup, and buildup around your fi ring pin can prevent it from fi ring).

Wipe down the whole gun and remove any excess oil.

shotgun cleaning

13

14

Consider the typical situation of opening day of bird season. Unless you’re independently wealthy, you have to work for a living and those precious hunting trips are few and far between. Most likely, you’ve planned this trip since mid-summer. You’ve gotten all of your gear, guns and ammo in the truck and on opening day you fi nd yourself out in a dove fi eld waiting for the fi rst fl ock to coming cruising in - ready to meet their maker.

As the sun rises, the fi rst doves of the season are seen coming your way. You remember to keep your head down and tell yourself to wait until you see the whites of their little dove eyes before you swing your shotgun and take the shot. All goes as planned until you take the fi rst, second and third shots and miss with all three. Very likely, this scenario will be repeated for about the fi rst or even second hour of the hunt.

WHY?

You’ve probably not picked up a shotgun for several months (see “making a living” above) and your shotgun- mounting mechanical skills, not to mention your eye-to-hand skills are not even close to where they need to be in order to hit a tiny bird fl ying by at about 50 miles per hour! There’s only one way to avoid this waste of ammo. Use August to get back into hunting shape by hitting the sporting clays range a couple of times a week.

This practice can be greatly enhanced when you bring along a buddy to help you determine whether you are shooting ahead or behind the targets. If you’re lucky enough to have a shooting instructor at the range, hav-ing him/her watch your mechanics and follow-through and give you some advice can also pay big dividends on opening day.

That fi rst hunting trip of the year is one of the best experiences in outdoor sports. Since bird season is just around the corner, now is the time to get your gun and yourself in hunting shape.

GETTING YOURSELF READY

WHERE ARE THE WHERE ARE THE CATFISH HIDING?CATFISH HIDING?

How good would a heaping plate of freshly caught catfi sh taste tonight? For my money, pretty darn good!

These freshwater fi sh are some of the most popular fi sh for two reasons. They are large with lots of meat on those bones and they taste great. Whether you’re looking for blues, channel cats or fl atheads, you’ll fi nd these often monster-sized fi sh in rivers, creeks and lakes, if you know where to look.

TROTLINES OR ANGLING?

There are a couple tactics used for catching for catfi sh – trotlines and regular fi shing tackle. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, although many fi shermen turn up their nose in distain at the thought of someone stringing up a trotline and checking it periodically to see if any big cats have been snared. However, if the “big boom” ever happens (whatever the “big boom” turns out to be), and we are all trying to survive using a minimum of technology, a good ‘ol fashion trotline would be something that the post-apocalypse sportsman/survivor might want to have a passing acquaintance with.

Trotlines are too passive for some people. While it does take some skill to set up the lines, bait the multiple hooks, run the lines and haul in the catfi sh, many fi shermen still prefer the angling approach to fi shing for any species, including catfi sh. Make no mistake, trotlines help you catch fi sh and if you’ve never set one out you will be surprised at how productive they can be.

Trotlines also have one more, teeny tiny problem. They’re illegal in many states. These states include: Ala-bama, Alaska, Florida, Maine, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyo-ming. In New Mexico and West Virginia, trotlines are restricted to only certain areas. In Virginia, trotlines can only be used for non-game fi sh. In many other states there are special requirements for the length of the lines, how many hooks, and how far apart the hooks can be.

TO REGISTER CLICK: www.sportsmenna.com/grand_prize.php

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1csuFmZ_Kyc

BEST CATFISH LAKES

1. Walter F. George Reservoir (Lake Eufaula), GA, AL

2. Wheeler Reservoir, AL

3. Ft. Gibson Lake, OK

4. Lake Wylie, SC/NC

5. San Carlos Reservoir, AZ

6. Calamus Reservoir, NE

7. Lake Texoma, TX

8. Barkley Lake, KY

9. Watts, Barr, TN

10. Grand Lake, OK

11. Kentucky Lake, TN

12. Lake Ouachita, AR

13. Chickamauga Lake, TN

14. Merritt Reservoir, NE

15. Lake Guntersville, AL

16. Truman Lake, MO

17. Kerr Reservoir, OK

18. Lake of the Ozarks, MO

19. Lake Caddo, TX

20. Toledo Bend Reservoir, TX

21. Logan Martin, AL

22. Lake Conroe, TX

23. Lake Mendota, WI

24. Clear Lake, CA

25. Lake Marion (Santee Cooper Lakes), SC

FISHHOUND IS SNIFFING OUT CATFISHIf you want to catch big catfi sh with a rod, reel and skill, you still have to fi nd places where these fi sh hang out. To that end, a new membership website called “Fishhound” has made a list. Joining this community is free, but to get the full benefi ts it will cost you a few bucks. The people who have put this site together seem to know what they’re doing. You can check out this site at www.fi shhound.com.

In a press release, Rick Patri who is the VP of Operations for Fishhound (and probably gets to go fi shing more than you and me!!) noted, “Catfi sh are among the most popular game fi sh targeted by U.S. anglers, and they inhabit countless bodies of water across the nation. Our goal was to narrow things down to a list of the 50 top locations - lakes and rivers that offer anglers plenty of action and a shot at some trophy size, maybe even record-breaking cats."

Fishhound collected this information from outdoor writers, Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail, Ripping Lips and other experts on catfi sh. Without further ado and adding the customary drumroll which lets you, our esteemed reader, know that something important is about to be announced, here are Fishhound’s Top 50 Lakes and Rivers for Catfi sh.

BEST CATFISH RIVERS

1. Trinity River, TX

2. Colorado River, CA

3. Cape Fear River, NC

4. Red River, MN

5. Cumberland River, TN, KY

6. Missouri River, Waverly, MO

7. James River, Hopewell, VA

8. Tennessee River, Savannah, TN

9. Ohio River, Vevay, IN

10. Kansas River, Kansas City, MO

11. Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau, MO

12. Red River, Grand Forks, ND

13. Mississippi River, Baton Rouge, LA

14. Ohio River, Gallipolis, OH

15. Mississippi River, Natchez, MS

16. Missouri River, St. Joseph, MO

17. Missouri River, South Sioux City, NE

18. Rock River, Dixon, IL

19. Cumberland River, Clarksville, TN

20. Alabama River, Selma, AL

21. Altamaha River, GA

22. Colorado River (Lower Colorado)

23. Red River, Alexandria, LA

24. Apalachicola River, FL

25. Illinois River, Peoria, IL

So, are you fi shing any of these rivers and lakes? I’ve fi shed a couple and I remember seeing a LOT of catfi sh.

Once you catch one of these big boys, the next step is my favorite part. You get to eat him. Here’s a good recipe for fresh catfi sh. Bon appetite! Which is French for “eat hearty and watch out for bones!”

18

ART’S SMOKED CATFISHIf you like grillin’, try this one.

Prep Time: 10 min • Inactive Prep Time: 1 hr • Cook Time: 45 minCreamy Orange Dill Sauce: • 2/3 cup plain yogurt• 2/3 cup sour cream• 2 tablespoons orange juice• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper• Dash hot sauce• Salt and freshly ground black pepper * Add all the ingredients to a serving bowl and serve with the smoked catfi sh.

19

THE OUTPOST: RECIPES

DirectionsCombine the buttermilk and hot sauce in a 13 by 9-inch casserole dish. Add catfi sh fi llets and cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the catfi sh from the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels. Set up your grill for indirect heat at a medium-low temperature, about 275 degrees F.

Mix together the oregano, lemon peel and salt, pepper, in a small bowl. Lightly coat the fi sh with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the catfi sh fi llets. Put the catfi sh on the grill away from the hot coals. Smoke the catfi sh until it is fully cooked through and golden brown, about 45 minutes. Remove the fi sh from the grill to a serving platter and serve with the Orange Dill Cream Sauce.

• 1 clove garlic, fi nely chopped• 1 tablespoon fi nely chopped green onion• 1 tablespoon fi nely chopped parsley• 1 tablespoon fi nely chopped dill

20

THE OUTPOST: RECIPES

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GLDy35byNE&list=PLB4DA6A0F6DDB161B&index=1

Pull Some Pork and Save a Stream

As any farmer, rancher, hunter or even hard-core animal rights activist can attest to, feral hogs are a menace and completely out of control. In many areas, there are literally thousands of these porkers roaming the countryside, decimating the rivers, creeks, wildlife habitat and generally wreaking havoc.

If you have feral hogs in your area, you owe it to the wildlife to get out and bring one back, fi eld dressed and ready for the game processor. Ironically, the meat from these destructive critters is both tasty and healthy – both lean and fl avorable. The trick is fi nding an easy and delicious way to prepare it.

As a public service, the smart folks at the Texas Parks and Wildlife department put together a great video on how feral hogs can be turned into the best pork tacos you’ve ever eaten. Take a look at this video then grab your gun and ammo and ask the nearest farmer or rancher if they would mind you har-vesting a few tacos off their land.

212222222222222211111111111111111

The Outpost Radio is the fi rst radio station dedicated to hunting,

fi shing, and the great outdoors. You can hear us on your smart-

phone, desktop or tablet…just about anywhere. The Outpost Ra-

dio is a mix of great music and information that celebrates the

outdoors! Give us a listen. Click on The Outpost logo below to

listen now!

RADIO FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORSRADIO FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

TROUT ADVENTURE

TRAIL

23

HOW TO COMBINE HIKING HOW TO COMBINE HIKING TROUT FISHINGTROUT FISHING

AND THE APPALACHIAN TRAILAND THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL

Life is too short to go through it without some adventure. About an hour and a half from Atlanta, Georgia, on the southern end of the world famous Appalachian Trail, hikers and trout fi shermen can fi nd a unique outdoor ad-venture – the Trout Ad-venture Trail.

The Trout Adventure Trail is a “do it yourself” and “plan your own” hik-ing and learning experi-ence for kids of all ages along legendary trails in the Chattahoochee Na-tional Forest in northern Georgia. It has designat-ed by the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and the thousands of par-ticipants who have made the trek as one of the top-12 wintertime activities in the region. This part of the state is known to anglers as the trout capi-tal of the state.

It offers individual hik-ers, families and orga-nized groups the oppor-tunity to hike, learn and earn a distinctive com-memorative award patch as recognition of the commitment to outdoor education, conservation and accomplishment. Plus, trout afi cionados can fi nd plenty of Rain-bows and Brookies to keep them busy!

CHOOSING A TRAIL

As the website (http://troutadventuretrail.org) for the Trout Adventure Trail notes, its designated trails’ system provide a variety of hiking options in length, degree of dif-fi culty in terrain and outdoors experiences. In order to plan a successful, stress-free hike, it’s advised that hikers take into account the age, abilities and preparedness of the weakest hiker in the group. The weather and the amount of daylight available is also an important consideration. Finally, deciding on the outdoor features that the group wants to experience is important.

It’s a good idea to allow a cushion of extra time for unanticipated contingencies or for fun opportunities to detour from the plan that may present themselves in the course of the hike. These can include a dip in one of the ice-cold creeks that run beside the trail or getting out the fl y rod and gear for some impromptu fi shing.

W W W . T H E O U T P O S T L I F E . C O M

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Forest Service Roads

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Trout Adventure Trails is a cooperative conservation education project by the Blue Ridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited and the USDA Forest Service, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests.

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Route Description Length (+/- miles)

Difficulty Rating Features

RED Springer Mountain parking area to Springer Mountain and return.

1.8 Moderate Steep uphill hike to vista view atop Springer Mountain and start point (southern terminus) of the Appalachian Trail, and return.

BLUE Three Forks to Long Creek Falls andreturn.

2.2 Easy Gentle uphill walk to beautiful falls along LongCreek, and return.

RED& BLUE

Springer Mountain parking area to Springer Mountain and return to vehicles.Drive to Three Forks ... Three Forks to Long Creek Falls and return to vehicles.

1.8

2.2

Moderate

Easy

Steep uphill hike to long-range view and start (southern terminus) of Appalachian Trail atop Springer Mountain, and downhill return.

Separate hike with gentle uphill walk along trout stream to beautiful falls, and downhill return. Both hikes feature a good place to rest and talk before return trip.

GREEN Start at Springer Mountain parking area and hike to Springer Mountain, descend from Springer Mountain on Appalachian Trail to Long Creek Falls, and return to Springer Mountain parking area on Appalachian Trail.

10.2 Moderate Steep uphill to vista atop Springer Mountain and start point (southern terminus) of Appalachian Trail, and descent to Three Forks, crossing Stover Creek; proceeds along Long Creek to waterfall and returns on Appalachian Trail to Springer Mountain parking area. Along the route between Three Forks and Springer Mountain, hikers experience cathedral stand of Eastern Hemlock trees.

GOLD* Start at Three Forks and hike to Long Creek Falls, backtrack to Three Forks and after crossing creek, take Benton-MacKaye Trail to highest intersection with Appalachian Trail near top of Springer Mountain. Turn left and ascend to top of Springer Mountain, and descend on Appalachian Trail to Three Forks.

12.4 Moderate Gold route covers the full extent of the Trout Adventure Trail. The experience includes walking along Long Creek to magnificent waterfalls and ascent on Benton-MacKaye Trail to Springer Mountain with stream crossings and a wonderful view during the ascent to Springer Mountain. The Appalachian Trail to the top of Springer Mountain affords another great view and arrival at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. At one point, the hike downhill to Three Forks passes along a cathedral stand of mature Eastern Hemlock trees.

CUSTOM ROUTES

There is virtually no limit to the customized routes available. Planning or time constraints, abilities of the hikers, educational experiences, and merit badge or rank requirements for scouts can all be accommodated with custom options of routes.

Easy to Moderate

Planning the route is part of the fun of the experience.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR CHOOSING A ROUTE

26

THE OUTPOST: TROUT ADVENTURE TRAIL

WANT TO EARN A PATCH?

A great way for kids to celebrate the great outdoors and commemorate successfully completing the Trout Adventure Trail is to earn a patch. The process is easy and fun.

• Any person who hikes any part of any one of the designated along the Trout Adventure Trail is eligible for the exclusive offi cial patch provided by Trout Unlimited (one patch per person). An adult (parent, youth leader, and teacher) must confi rm completion of the segment of the trail hiked.

• Patches can be obtained at any of the trial headquarters. Patches will be provided to the adult responsible for providing the names and ages of children and the names of adults who hiked on the trail.

• Children under the age of 18 are eligible for successive patches if they take separate hikes on the Trout Adventure Trail more than fi ve (5) days apart. A child may earn up to two standard patches per year for qualifying hikes.

GET STARTEDLate summer and early fall are perfect times to hike the Trout Adventure Trail. For more information on the fun, simply click: http://troutadventuretrail.org/Our_Partners.htm. Let the adventure begin!

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OUTPOST G

EAR

OUTPOST G

EAR Keeping Hot Drinks Hot and Cold Drinks Cold Eco Vessel and Mossy Oak team up for camo bottles

It’s critical to stay hydrated when hunting, fi shing or hiking and part of that challenge lies in keeping the liquid at an ideal temperature. Eco Vessel has partnered with Mossy Oak to launch the Mossy Oak Collection of TriMax™ triple insulated water bottles. Featuring the Break-Up Infi nity® pattern, the line is now available in a 45-ounce BIGFOOT bottle ($37.95) and a 25-ounce Boulder bottle ($28.95).

Both bottles offer Eco Vessel's TriMax triple insulation. This vacuum-sealed technology has been tested to keep drinks cold for up to 36 hours and retains heat for up to 8 hours. The bottles also feature a functional screw top lid that has a wide mouth opening to easily accommodate ice and a convenient spout for drinking.

The Mossy Oak Collection can be purchased directly at www.ecovessel.com as well as through Eco Vessel's U.S. retailers.

Eco Vessel is based in Boulder, Colorado at the base of the Rocky Mountains and the company’s product designs are motivated by the outdoor lifestyle in Colorado. It’s dedicated to crafting hydration products from safe, sturdy, sustain-able materials while offering innovation and practicality for everyone - from children to world-class athletes. You can fi nd the company on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ecovessel.

Eco Vessel is an offi cially licensed partner of Haas Outdoors Inc. the home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camoufl age designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. These camo patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide.

If you would like a chance If you would like a chance to win a free to win a free

Eco Vessel/Mossy Oak Eco Vessel/Mossy Oak TriMax water bottle, TriMax water bottle, LIKE The Outpost on LIKE The Outpost on

Facebook Facebook

29

It’s about Time.

Welcome to 401K ProAdvisor

Isn’t it about me somebody was firmly focused on improving re rement outcomes? How has your 401(k) plan been performing? How much commission is your provider drawing from your plan? That’s where 401KProAdvisors excels because our team of dedicated re rement plan specialists are qualified to provide a comprehensive suite of re rement plan services.

To get the whole story, call George Richerson at 770.436.4097 or visit www.401kproadvisor.com.

It’s about Certainty.

Crea ve Plan Design Customized Educa on Ongoing Plan Review

Plan Benchmarking ERISA 3(21) & 3(38) 403(b) & Pension Consul ng

Securi es offered through Triad Advisors, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Wealth & Pension Services Group, Inc. Wealth & Pension Services Group, Inc. is not affiliated with Triad Advisors, Inc.

OUTPOST G

EAR

OUTPOST G

EAR Your Binoculars Can’t Swim You might want to invest in the fl oating marine strap from Vero Vellini

This time of year, you’re probably spending a lot of time on a boat or at least near some cool water. That means your optic gear is one unexpected wave away from dropping into the drink.

The Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap is a great fl otation device to protect your binocular, waterproof camera, GPS, radio or other expensive handheld-device, should it accidentally go overboard. Davy Jones already has a nice pair of binoculars. He doesn’t need yours!

Crafted of extra-thick Neoprene padding with safety-orange jersey material on either side, the Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap is easy to see if it goes overboard and easy to grab with hands or a hook, so your pre-cious items can be brought safely back onboard. The 15mm-thick and 65mm-wide Neoprene strap is designed to keep afl oat a 7x50 or equivalent-size binocular, camera or handheld item and its soft design also feels exceptionally comfort-able around the neck. The comfort of the Vero Vellini strap is extremely important after a long day in the sun.

Keep your gear stays afl oat with a Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap. They’re available from West Marine Products (www.westmarine.com) (800) 262-8464 or the Vero Vellini products can be purchased online:

www.pioneer-research.com/assets/pdf/VV_2012_Catalog.pdf

Would you like a chance to win a free

Vero Vellini Marine Binocular Float Strap? Just LIKE The Outpost

on Facebook

31

Want to know more about selecting the right pup? email: [email protected]

www.gundogbroker.com

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OUTPOST G

EAR

OUTPOST G

EAR A Camo iPhone Holster From Realtree® The OtterBox Armor Series keeps your smartphone safe

Smartphones have become an important part of outdoor sports and they take a pounding from the elements. The new OtterBox Armor Series® with Realtree camo, safeguards the Apple® iPhone 4/4s and iPhone 5 from any hazard. These new camo iPhone cases pair the most versatile camoufl age with the most versatile waterproof protection.

The Armor Series holster, which fi ts both iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5 Armor Series cases, is also now available.

The Armor Series fuses four layers of premium protection to defend against water, drops, dust and crush. Corrosion-resistant metal latches, o-ring technology and secure port covers keep water out and allows the Armor Series to undergo submersions for 30 minutes in up to 6.6 feet. of water. Vents and port covers are made of a non-permeable membrane and a protective mesh layer allows sound to pass through, while keeping harmful elements out. Advanced materials protect the device from 10-foot drops while bumpers in each corner absorb shock. High-strengthreinforced plastic allows the Armor Series to withstand two tons of force and a built-in screen protector guards against scratches. A lanyard is included for hands-free carrying.

The Armor Series is now available in Realtree Xtra® for iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5 and Max-4® for iPhone 5. The Otterbox is available at all AT&T stores.

32

The Armor Series is now available in Realtree Xtra® for iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5 and Max-4® for iPhone 5. The Otterbox is available at all AT&T stores.

Want a free OtterBox

iPhone holster? Just LIKE

The Outpost on Facebook for

your chance to win.

Outdoor Shots of Sweet Home Alabama

Sometimes, the best wild game shots are made with a camera. Outdoor Alabama magazine wants to see your best outdoor shots of this sweet state for its 2014 photo contest. However, if you want to win this shoot-out you’d better hurry because photos are only being accepted through October.

Entries must be submitted on a CD-ROM or a DVD and accompanied by an offi cial entry form, which can be downloaded at www.outdooralabama.com/outdoor-alabama/photo_con.cfm. The con-test is open to any amateur photographer except employees of the Alabama Department of Conser-vation and Natural Resources and members of their immediate families. For purposes of this contest, an amateur is defi ned as someone who does not earn a living from photography.

The Categories are Diverse

Photographers may enter up to 10 photos, which may be in the same category or spread among dif-ferent categories. The categories include: Alabama State Parks, Birds, Mammals, Reptiles/Amphib-ians/Fish, Other Native Wildlife, Scenic/Pictorial, Nature-Based Activities, Wild Flora, Youth Ages 6-12 and Youth Ages 13-18. The winning entries will be published in the February 2014 issue of Outdoor Alabama and exhibited across the state in several different venues.

According to Outdoor Alabama Editor Kim G. Nix, the key to getting a good photo is a mixture of good technique and selecting subject matter that draws the eye. “People always ask what we’re look-ing for in a good photo. The fi rst thing I tell them is to make sure the picture is in focus. That’s really the fi rst criteria in our selection—a sharp photo. Next, try to isolate your subject so that bird, plant or person is the main focal point. Compose the photo so there’s not a lot of competing background,” she said.

“This photo contest encourages people to explore the outdoors with their cameras. We’d really like to see more youth involved in the contest. We have special categories for them so they are compet-ing against others the same ages,” she added.

Time to Focus

Entries must be postmarked by Oct. 31, 2013. For more information, call 800-262-3151, write to Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest, 64 N. Union St., Ste. 106, Montgomery, AL 36130, or email Kim Nix at [email protected].

You can view some of the winners of the 2013 photo contest on the next two pages or to view all 38 winners visit www.outdooralabama.com/photos/oaphotos/13winners/

36

Surf’s Up! Where’s my Rod?Surf’s Up! Where’s my

Catching a big wave, while standing astride a surfboard, is an experience that words are inadequate to de-scribe. If you’re a surfer, your adrenaline starts pumping when somebody screams “surf’s up!” However, if you enjoy keeping your feet fi rmly on the sand as those waves coming rolling in, you might enjoy the excite-ment of wade fi shing the surf.

This type of fi shing doesn’t take a lot of specialized equipment and it often leads to a bounty of fresh seafood for the table. Plus, since pursuing this sport involves going to the beach, the weather is usually perfect. Here are a few tips on wade fi shing for the next time someone says: “surf’s up!”

TACKLE, BAIT AND LURES THAT WORK BEST FOR WADE FISHING

Choosing the right bait and tackle for wade fi shing is petty simple. Live bait or lures that have proven to work for the type of fi sh that are available in the area should be used. This means that a lure that might be irresistible to the fi sh off the Florida Keys or California coast might not be so effective for someone fi shing off Galveston Island in Texas.

37

CAN’T GET CAN’T GET ENOUGH ENOUGH OF THE OF THE

OUTPOST?OUTPOST?

CLICK HERE CLICK HERE TO GO TO TO GO TO THEOUTPOSTLIFE.COMTHEOUTPOSTLIFE.COM

Surf’s Up! Where’s my Rod?Rod? Fishing guides suggest that the best kind of fi shing rod is a 6 foot or 6 ½ foot, stiff rod with a good bait caster. A 20# test line is normally used, but local fi shing guides and stores might have some better recommen-dations for the line based on what they hear from other fi shermen. The most effective bait will also depend on a couple of other factors. Will the wade fi sh-ing be done on the bay side or in the surf? Bay fi shing is a much more civilized endeav-or because the fi sherman is not constantly being threatened with being knocked over by the surf. However, wade fi shing in the surf can yield an amazingly wide diversity of fi sh species and if the angler gets knocked down a time or two, that’s the price of ad-venture!

Most wade fi shing guides feel that the best live bait for wade fi shing is shrimp. This makes sense because the fi sh imme-diately off-shore would be accustomed to chowing-down on this tasty fi sh. This live shrimp should be head-hooked through the shrimp’s black eyes or tail-hooked on a small treble hook about two feet under a weighted popper cork.

Numerous fi shing experts have noted that, while shrimp is logical live bait, it won’t al-

ways help catch a wide range of ocean-dwelling fi sh such as fl ounder and speckled trout. For these fi sh, artifi cial lures seem to work best.

Coastal fi shing guides note the best lures for the shallow fl ats of the Gulf of Mexico coastline are tied jigs and weedless, fl oating plugs. If wade fi shing in the surf in the morning hours, the fi sherman should use dark-colored soft plastics, or topwaters, such as Skitterwalks if the water is clear. Later in the day, the best lures are silver or gold spoons and light colored plastics.

For wade fi shing in the bay, the angler is advised to start with soft plas-tics, topwaters and spoons for the grassy areas. Overall, most experts agree that the most productive fi shing lures for the ocean are baitfi sh and shrimp imitations.

38

THE OUTPOST: SURF FISHING

WHAT TO WEAR

As the term wade fi shing suggests, this type of fi shing requires the angler to get into the water. Therefore, de-pending on the temperature of the water, he/she might want to consider several options for wading togs.

Some anglers like using standard neoprene waders for this type of fi shing and, while this is perfectly acceptable, they are also hot if fi shing in the spring and summer. Even if waders are too warm, it is important to wear long pants to avoid being touched by jelly fi sh, man-o-war or hardhead spines. Blue jeans or coveralls are fi ne for this protection. For wading shoes, a pair of tennis or running shoes will work for this. There also leg-guards available at most out-door stores and these will help the fi sherman from dealing with the pain of a stingray or other aquatic critter.

While there are lots of options for wade fi shing apparel and gadgets, there is one piece of gear that is absolute-ly critical to have – a life vest. Every year, hundreds of fi shermen are swept out into the ocean by a wave that didn’t seem to be big enough to carry them. Those who

had a life vest lived to tell the tale. Wear a life vest and make it back to the hotel for dinner.

Another critical piece of gear is a good pair of sunglass-es. Standing in the water for hours, looking at the glare of the ocean can give you a giant headache. A good pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses can make the expe-rience much more fun and save a fortune on ibuprofen!

OTHER TIPS FOR WADE FISHING

If some night fi shing is planned, it’s a good idea to try out new plugs during the daylight hours to see how they swim in the water. Fishing guides suggest keeping a wade fi shing log book to remember what worked and what didn’t. Log the date, time, location, wind strength and direction, as well as the fi sh caught and the lures or bait used for every trip you make. Add a few notes with any additional insights that might prove helpful down the line, such as air and water temperature, prevalent baitfi sh in the area, and at what point during the tide the biggest fi sh arrived or the action reached its peak.

A GREAT FISHING DEAL

Wade fi shing is one of the most exciting types of salt-water fi shing and it has the added advantage of not re-quiring a fi shing boat or charter boat expense. For an economical and action-packed fi shing experience, noth-ing beats the fun of wade fi shing. Plus, the number of species of fi sh that swim by – from specs to sharks – is mind-boggling.

TO REGISTER CLICK: www.sportsmenna.com/grand_prize.php

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1csuFmZ_Kyc

DESTINATION

THE FLORIDA KEYS

THE OUTPOST: DESTINATIONS - FLORIDA KEYS

THE OUTPOST VISITS THE FLORIDA KEYSBy: JIM ZEGERS

There’s only one place in the United States where you can have the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. It’s a place where every square foot is infused with a sense of history and even intrigue. It’s the stuff of classic movies. As you drive down US 1 from Miami and go over the fi rst bridge on the Overseas Highway, you’ve entered a whole diffeent world: The Florida Keys.

This amazing chain of islands, connected by the Over-seas Highway thanks to Henry Flagler extending his Florida East Coast Railway in the early 1910’s, has been the home to literary legends, movie moguls and fi shing fanatics. As an island paradise, the Florida Keys represent a fi shing, snorkeling, diving, camping, boating, eating and drinking Mecca. As such, they are perfect The Outpost destination!

WELCOME TO KEY LARGO

The fi rst island is Key Largo, best known for the John Huston’s fi lm, of the same name, starring Humphrey Bogart, Edward G. Robinson and Lauren Bacall. On the island you will fi nd the fi rst undersea park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. John Pennekamp and the adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, covers approximately 178 nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds and man-grove swamps. The park extends 3 miles into the At-lantic Ocean and is approximately 25 miles in length.

The reefs may be viewed from glass-bottom boats, or by snorkeling or scuba diving. Other activities available in the park include canoeing, kayaking, fi shing, hiking, swimming and wildlife viewing. A full-facility campground is also available. You will fi nd many state parks as you cruise down US 1, but Pennekamp is the largest.

GO FISHING ON ISLAMORADA

The next stop is Islamorada, the Sportsfi shing Capital of the Keys. You will fi nd plenty of charter boats for fi sh-ing the fl ats for bonefi sh or offshore for the big catch. If you’d like to swim with the dolphins, stingrays or sea lions, stop at the Theater of the Sea. And make sure you stop by the world famous Holiday Isle Tiki Bar for a fruity concoction and a spectacular view of the ocean.

If this trip is starting to sound a little like a Jimmy Buffett song, there’s a good reason. When he’s not touring the world, the founder of the Parrot Head Nation spends a lot of time on these islands.

HALF WAY TO KEY WEST

As you continue your journey down US 1, you’ll enjoy the view of Marathon, half way down to Key West. Mara-thon is the next major collection of land mass, which is a city on seven different keys. It is a major sports fi shing destination, with several charter fi shing boats depart-ing from local marinas every morning to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Bountiful reefs around Marathon make it a popular diving, snorkel-ing, kayaking, spearfi shing, and lobster tickling area.

As you leave Knight’s Key out of Marathon, you jump on the famous Seven Mile Bridge. It feels like you are in a boat instead of a car be-cause you are surrounded by the Atlantic and the Gulf. It was one of the longest bridges in existence when built and you can still see parts of the original bridge built from 1909 to 1912, which sus-tained considerable damage from the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.

NEXT STOP KEY WEST

Exiting the Seven Mile Bridge, you cross over several keys before “Down Island” – Key West. Those islands include Big Pine Key, Ramrod Key, Summerland Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key and Boca Chica Key, ideal for boating and camping. Big Pine Key is the home of the National Key Deer Refuge, sorry no hunting allowed as Key Deer are endangered.

Now to the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, Key West, the Conch Republic. The island is about 4 miles long and 2 miles wide inhabited by residents self proclaimed as Conchs. The island was made famous by President Harry Truman, Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, bootleg-ging and cigars.

Since it’s closer to Havana than Miami (Cuba is about 90 miles away), Key West has more of a Cuban feel than Florid-ian. In 1890, with a population of 18,800, it was the biggest and richest city in Florida and half of the residents were of Cuban origin.

The original Key West neighborhood is called "Old Town" and comprises the Key West Historic District. It includes the major tourist destinations of the island including Mallory Square, Duval Street, the Truman Annex and Fort Zachary Taylor. Nearby you’ll also fi nd Ernest Hemingway’s home and

the concrete replica of a buoy at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets that claims to be the south-ernmost point of the contiguous 48 states.

Don’t miss the Sunset Celebra-tion at Mallory Square where visitors, locals and street perform-ers watch the sun sink into the Gulf every evening end-ing with applause. After the sunset, you can cruise to-ward Duval Street and explore the many bars and restaurants includ-ing Hog’s Breath Saloon, Captain Tony’s Saloon and Sloppy Joes for drinks, food and music…The Outpost’s favorites.

There’s no place on the planet like the Florida Keys. If you have a week or a lifetime, this is the perfect place to spend it. It’s one of those rare places that combines the best fi shing, snorkeling, history, food and scenery all served up in laidback island ambi-ance. And when you get there don’t forget to try the Key Lime Pie!

Fly Fishing for

the Big ONEs

SALTWATER FISHING ON THE FLY

If this month’s The Outpost destination to the Florida Keys (see page 40) has you thinking about billfi sh, bonefi sh or tarpon fi shing and you’re “air casting” with your imaginary fl y rod, you’ll want to keep reading. Saltwater fl y fi shing off the Florida Keys, Oregon or Washington coasts, North Carolina coast, Guatemala, the Dominican Re-public or any other ocean in the world has gained enormous popularity among anglers who would normally get out the tried-and-true casting rig to fi sh the saltwater.

The reason for this interest and increase in popularity is self-evident. It’s the challenge of pulling in a large fi sh on a small fl y rod and reel.

There are saltwater fl y fi shermen, such as guide/instructor Jake Jordan who works the Florida Keys, who has caught giant blue marlin and sailfi sh on 20-pound tippets. Because of the weird physics of this sport, before heading out with that fl y fi shing rig that you use to catch trout in Colorado or Georgia, you should get some back-ground on the process.

While freshwater fl y fi shing has been around since the 1800’s, saltwater fl y fi shing saw its beginning in the 1950’s. Anglers began catching game fi sh on the fl ats of the Florida Keys and as far north as Chesapeake Bay. Now fl y fi shermen pursue game fi sh species from red drum and bonefi sh to marlin and tuna all over the world.

Guides note that the best way for anglers who are new to saltwater fl y fi shing to practice techniques and catch fi sh is to pick the places with few challenges to fl y placement. These locations include: inshore beaches, salt ponds, locations on rivers that fl ow into an ocean, from jetties and fl ats that are wadeable.

lowerkeysfl atsfi shing.com

CHOOSING THE BEST FLY FISHING RIG FOR SALTWATER

As with conventional fi shing, when choosing the rod, line and gear for saltwater fi shing, it’s important to fi gure out what type of fi sh you are likely to fi nd or want to pursue and the conditions that these fi sh will be found in. Bonefi sh are different from marlin and they both take different fl ies, rods and catching techniques. After deciding on the type of species that are to be pursued, the angler should go to a fl y fi shing shop, fl y tackle department at the big-box sporting goods retail-ers, fi shing show or get online to research the type of gear he/she needs.

Saltwater fl y fi shing guides never fail to point out the difference between conventional fi shing and that using a fl y rod. With the spinning or casting rod, there is a weighted lure or bait that pulls the line off the rod. How-ever, fl y fi shing involves casting a weighted line that has a wind-resistant fl y on its business end. It will take someone who is used to casting a conventional lure a few tosses to get use to tossing a weighted line and fl y.

Knowing the likely species and their habitats will help the angler to determine the size, type and mass of the fl ies necessary for catching them. This will also deter-mine the size and weight rating of the fl y rod. Repeat-ing the obvious, a fl y rod that is used for inshore fi sh-ing for sea trout or fl ounder can be a lot lighter and have less tensile strength that one that is to be used for hauling in tarpon or tuna.

Experts such as Jake Jordan opine that the best saltwa-ter rods will run in the 7-weight to 12 –weight class, in lengths from about 82 or 92 inches or about 10-feet. A short fi ghting butt (permanent or detachable) is also a good addition for dealing with heavier fi sh such as mar-lin. Because of the corroding tendency of saltwater, the rod guides should be stainless steel and the wrapping coated with epoxy rod fi nish.

A saltwater fl y fi sherman will need a line capacity of at least 200 yards with 20 to 30 pound test backing. A reel with a palming rim and a good drag system will also help the angler in catching and bringing in these larger fi sh.

The leaders in saltwater fl y fi shing tend to be short-er and heavier than those used in freshwater fi shing. This helps the angler to turn the larger fl ies over and the heavier tippet will be more abrasion resistant. It’s interesting to note that saltwater fi sh tend to be less wary that freshwater fi sh because they live in rougher water. Therefore, the leader doesn’t have to be as fi ne as that used for fooling trout in a bubbling mountain stream.

www.travelmuse.com

48

KNOT ON MY FISHING LINE

Because of the force exerted by a saltwater fi sh after being hooked, one of the biggest challenges for a fl y fi sherman pursuing these big boys is the strength of the knots. While everyone has his own theory about the best knots for fl y fi shing, it’s advisable to take another look at those knot-tying books or website before that tough tarpon hits your line and pops the knot.

There are many online resources for the best saltwater fl y fi shing knots. Hitting the search engine of your choice and looking for these knots is a good place to start:

• Albright knot• Arbor knot• Haywire knot• Blood knot (aka Barrel knot)• Improved Clinch knot• Kreh Loop knot• Nail knot• Three turns or Rhodes knot

CHECK IT OUT

If you’re interested in saltwater fl y fi sh-ing and have never done it, you should defi nitely do additional research before hitting the waves. There are many good places to get instructions and more tips on gear. One of the highly respected groups for this sport is the International Federation of Fly Fishers ™ and you can fi nd them at: www.fedfl yfi shers.com.

Saltwater fl y fi shing is perfect for the angler who likes a challenge and enjoys being around the ocean. Plus, fooling big fi sh is even more fun than fooling little fi sh.

4250

The Mavericks Back in Your Arms

THE NEW OUTPOST RADIO IS LAUNCHEDRadio for the Great Outdoors

The stories in The Outpost Magazine are about the simple joys of living an authen-tic life. This includes outdoor sports such as fi shing, hunting, camping, hiking and biking. It involves good food and strong drink and it also includes music – from every genre – that sportsmen and sports-women enjoy.

Unfortunately, most of the music you hear on traditional (terrestrial) radio is so sani-tized, analyzed and ‘peroxized’ that the tunes and words are cotton candy for the brain. Plus, most of the outdoor sports radio programs come on the stations be-tween 3 and 4 am. That’s a little too early for most of us.

It’s is for this reason that we joined some friends who are experts in the radio busi-ness and launched The Outpost Radio. We’re calling it Radio for the great out-doors and that’s more than just a catchy phrase.

A typical radio station would never play the diversity of songs you’ll hear on

The Outpost Radio. At any given time on this unique station, you can hear Stevie Ray Vaughan, followed by Blackberry Smoke, followed by George Jones. While all of this is going on you can be given a chance to listen to podcasts that feature tips on hunt-ing whitetail deer, or catching crappie in the Atchafalaya Basin or learning why blue quail would rather run than fl y.

In the words of more than one recently converted Outpost Radio fanatic: “I’ve never heard anything like this station.” Exactly. This combination of music and outdoor sports information, pre-sented 24/7, available wherever you are, worldwide on your mobile device has never been offered. Until now.

If you can do without the little girl pop stars and auto-tuned crap that passes for country and rock and roll these days, you might want to try The Outpost Radio. If you want to know the weather wherever you’re sitting in a duck blind, it’s here. If you’re on the way to hunt pheasant or fi sh for walleye and you’d like to know if anybody’s seeing any, this might be your new favorite radio station.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtI5F3odgDo

GHOST BROTHERS OF DARKLAND COUNTY

AMERICAN GOTHIC PUT TO MUSIC

51

When you combine the collective genius of mystery/horror novelist Stephen King, musician John Mellan-camp and music producer extraordinare T.Bone Burnett at least two things are likely. The story will be dark as an Appalacian night and the music will vivid as a blood-stained, Sunday shirt. These three men, who are clearly at the pinnacle of the professional lives, have created one of most intriguing stories since Homer wrote the Illiad. The title of this masterpiece is Ghost Brothers of Darkland County.

While he wrote most of the songs, this is not a John Mellancamp CD. It’s a much more complex endeavor. The stealthy footprints of Stephen King and T. Bone Burnett are found throughout this epic.

The cast of singers and performers on Ghost Brothers is stunning. They include: Ryan Bingham, Neko Case, Elvis Costello, Rosanne Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Dave and Phil Alvin, Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, Taj Mahal and more. Having real-life and often feuding brothers, Dave and Phil Alvin (formerly of the rock group The Blasters) is just one of the brilliant touches.

A bird in the hand…

is worth two in the bush.If you know someone who enjoys getting their hands dirty while pursuing bobwhite quail, whitetail deer, wild turkeys, largemouth bass, feral hogs and every other species of wild game, why not FORWARD this issue of The Outpost to them? It’s easy. They’ll enjoy reading it. And they might even give you a hand.

www.theoutpostmagazine.com

Even if you have to borrow against the kid’s college fund, you will want to get the Deluxe Edition of this collection. It comes with two discs. One contains the songs as well as selected dialogue. Matthew McConaughey “speaks” for the character Drake while Ryan Bingham sings Drake’s songs. Meg Ryan speaks for Monique and Roseanne Cash sings her songs. Mellencamp sings the closing track. A 44-page booklet contains the spoken words and lyrics on the CD.

The other disc is a DVD which contains a short 14 minute documentary on the project as well as the FULL script for the play - as a pdf fi le. The script contains 94 pages spread over a 2 page layout with white letters on a black background.

There are so many good songs on Ghost Brothers that it’s unjust to mention a few. Our favorites are: “So God-damn Smart” performed by the Alvin brothers and Sheryl Crow, “Wrong, Wrong, Wrong About Me” performed by Elvis Costello and “Tear This Cabin Down” hit out of the park by Taj Mahal.

Ghost Brothers of Darkland County is a scary and extremely compelling ghost story set to music and performed by some of the best singers and musicians in the world. It is a classic American Gothic tale…very dark but ulti-mately fascinating.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3cLui1dpqY

54

HAVE YOU MISSED ANY ISSUES OF

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg2pfv7IcjQ

JOHN FOGERTY WROTE A SONG FOR EVERYONEHow many times have you found yourself singing along with John Forgety on one of his iconic Creedence Clearwa-ter Revival tunes? If you’re like most, it’s happened many, many times! Apparently, this has also happened to a lot of “A” list musicians many of whom agreed to join him on his latest CD – Wrote a Song for Everyone.

Forgety’s latest effort, released on his 68th birthday in May, features a who’s who of country and rock music all at the top of their game. Unlike many “manufactured greatest hits/duets” CD’s, these songs sound completely new and fresh. In and of itself, this is amazing.

Most of these songs were gigantic hits and there is no more distinctive voice than John Forgety. As any musician or producer will tell you, this goes against the golden rule of the music biz – never cover a song that half the world al-ready knows by heart. However, someone forgot to tell this to the artists whom Forgety recruited for this project.

This collection features brand new interpretations of these classic Forgety songs by the current crème de la crème of Nashville such as Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Alan Jackson and the Zac Brown Band. These songs also touched the imagination of some hot rock and rollers like Foo Fighters and Kid Rock and the perennial road warrior, Bob Seger and pop vocalist, Jennifer Hudson.

Each artist had the opportunity to choose the Forgety tune that they wanted to record and (as one would expect) the choices are fascinating. One of the best cuts in the collection is the duet between Forgety and Keith Urban: “Almost Saturday Night”. This tune, originally recorded by Forgety during his solo years, sounds like a Keith Urban song – instead of a rehash of a Forgety song. Such is also the case on the fi rst cut of the CD – “Fortunate Son” with Foo Fighters and a more countrifi ed version of “Bad Moon Rising” featuring the Zac Brown Band.

John Forgety also gives a nod to the next generation of the musical family. He and sons Shane and Tyler make a run at the symbolically appropriate CCR tune “Lodi.” If the music and respect shown by these amazing singers for John Forgety are any indication, I think we’re all happy that John did not get stuck in Lodi…again.

47

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GO AHEAD. CAST A LINEAND REEL THEM IN!!!

THE UTPOST

READING STREAMS

TALKING TURKEY RECIPES

TAXIDERMY

HOW TO TRICK TOMS

SEEING IS BELIEVING

SUNGLASSES REVIEW

PLUS: FACEBOOK FLASHBACK & BLACKBERRY SMOKE

ISSUE XI

THE NEW LAKE EFFECT ON FISHINGTHE NEW LAKE EFFECT ON FISHING

• CATCHING CRAPPIE• CATCHING CRAPPIE • CATFISH RECIPES• CATFISH RECIPES• BETTER BANK FISHING• BETTER BANK FISHING

HUNTINGHUNTINGAXISAXISDEERDEER

ISSUE II

WADE FISHING THE SURF

WOMENWITH

WEAPONS

ISSUE III

HOW TO KEEPHOW TO KEEP A HUNTING DOGA HUNTING DOG IN SHAPE IN THEIN SHAPE IN THE OFFSEASON

ALL HAIL KING

MACKEREL

WILLIE NELSONHEROES

HOW TO KEEP HOW TO KEEP

COOL AND COOL AND

MAINTAIN BOW MAINTAIN BOW

HUNTING SKILLS IN HUNTING SKILLS IN

THE SUMMER THE SUMMER

www.fl oridabowfi shing.com

BOWFISHING

If you enjoy the challenge of hunting with a bow and the thrill of pursuing marine life, bowfi shing was invented for you! Many bowhunters think they have only targets to shoot during the offseason, however this is not true. Bowfi shing fi lls that void nicely. It’s an excellent way to keep your archer’s eye sharp and shooting muscles toned for big game hunts to come later in the year.

During July, August and September when tem-peratures soar, there’s no better place to be than armpit-deep in cooling water. Plus, bowfi shing can also serve as a community service, thinning trash fi sh that can hinder reproduction of more valuable game fi sh.

There is a large population of these junk fi sh with carp being the mainstay. Bowhunters also pur-sue various suckers, gar, buffalo, shad or legal ocean-going fi sh. The most productive shooting is typically during the late spring or early sum-mer carp spawn, though any time of year can pro-vide shooting. Carp will live darn near anywhere, from polluted storm drains to small runoff ponds, muddy irrigation ditches to crystalline trout rivers to ocean-like reservoirs. FIRST THINGS FIRST

Getting started is easy. First, fi nd a place with carp or other non-game fi sh where it’s legal to shoot. When in doubt, ask the landowner or someone who’s in charge. Getting a game-violation ticket over a slimy carp simply isn’t worth it.

Next you’ll need some ratty sneakers and cut-offs, polarized sunglasses, a wide-brim hat and water-proof sunscreen. There’s no use in ruining good clothes, as you’re going to get dirty in this business. The polarized sunglasses will help cut surface glare and improve the view of submerged targets. Wear some sunblock. Water glare and all-day sun guaran-tee painful sunburns for the unprepared.

THE BEST BOW AND REEL

You could use the hunting bow you already own for this, but generally, an older bow that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy is best. Traditional re-curve bows and longbows best accommodate the quick, “from-the-hip” shooting normally presented. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy or powerful -- a cheap 45- to 50-pound pawn-shop or eBay bow is fi ne.

You’ll also need a bowfi shing reel equipped with stout cord, heavyweight arrow, and barbed point. Reels allow you to shoot into deeper water and easily retrieve arrows for an-other shot. Bowfi shing arrows are much heavier than hunt-ing arrows and are typically made of solid fi berglass to pen-etrate deep water and the scales and bones of a fi sh.

Reels come in a wide variety of styles and models, from ba-sic drums to sophisticated, crank-handle contraptions. The basic, hand-wound drum reel screws into standard stabilizer riser mounts or tapes into place via anchoring feet. These are fi ne for shallow water and when shots are not overly long. They’re also most economical. Look to Saunders, Ca-jun and Bohning Archery and Eastman Outfi tters for afford-able options.

Close-faced spinning reels attached to reel seats – some-times with short rods included -- screw into riser stabilizer mounts to make follow-up shots faster, and allow you to “play” your prize after a hit. Just remember to press the release (cast) button before each shot! Look to Eastman Outfi tters, Muzzy Products and Cajun Archery for prime ex-amples.

The safest, most hassle-free bowfi shing reel is AMS Bowfi sh-ing’s Retriever Reel. Lever-activated rollers neatly stack line into a bottle, feeding friction free during the shot – and with no buttons to push between shots. They mount via standard sight taps on most bow risers (strap-on mounts are avail-able through AMS for traditional bows with no taps). AMS, Muzzy and Bohning are your sources. No matter reel choice, many are offered in kit form, with everything you’ll need to get started.

ARROWS FOR FISHING

Solid fi berglass fi sh arrows are standard and abun-dantly available. They’re inexpensive and so durable that they literally last forever. They generally come in bright colors, making it easy to adjust fi re after a miss. Bohning makes bright yellow, orange, and white. Ca-jun, AMS and Muzzy offer white shafts (Muzzy also blue), Eastman Outfi tters “high-viz” chartreuse, In-nerLoc bright orange and glow-in-the-dark.

Barbed fi sh points come in a wide variety of styles and price points. Budget-priced heads can prove trickier to remove from fi sh, while also normally less durable. If you only bowfi sh occasionally, or in waters with soft bottoms, they’re highly viable. Here you’re looking at designs such as Bohning’s River Fish Point; Eastman Outfi tters’ Eagle Fish Point; Cajun’s Lil’ Stinger, Mo-hawk, and Wee Stinger; and AMS Shure-Shot Points.

If you do enough shooting that removing fi sh be-comes tedious, or if shooting in punishing areas with copious rock or stumps, a sturdier point is in order. These hold instantly-reversible barbs and more rug-ged construction. Cajun’s time-proven Sting-A-Ree; Eastman Outfi tters’ Osprey Fish Point; InnerLoc’s Grapple 2 and 3 Points; Muzzy’s Quick Release Gar or Carp, Stingray or Shure Shot points; and Bohning’s RuffNeck all withstand prolonged abuse and make getting rid of shish-kabobbed fi sh easy.

To avoid potential tangles that can mean a broken line and a lost arrow – or worse, a potentially dangerous bounce-back that results in injury to the shooter or companions -- AMS’ Safety Slide system is worth every penny. At least one bowfi sherman has been killed by a bounce-back. The slide system carries retrieval line in front of the riser and safely out of cables and ac-cessories while drawing and shooting, zipping back to facilitate straight-line fl ight upon release. Kits are sold by AMS, Bohning, Muzzy, and Cajun Archery.

READY, AIM…

Now you’re ready. All you’ll have to remember is to aim low when that fi rst fi sh ghosts into view. This is due to the prism effect created by water, making objects ap-pear higher than they actually are.

How far under the fi sh you aim depends on water depth and shot angle and there’s no other way to learn than to get out there and shoot some fi sh. That’s what all the fun’s about; getting outside on a hot spring or sum-mer’s day, stalking fi sh in cooling water, sometimes shooting until it hurts, collecting a few prizes along the way. I can think of few things I would rather do during the dog-days of summer.

http://youtu.be/mXDFd7EK0B8

Color Me Hooked!

SMARTBAITS ARE GAME CHANGERS AND COLOR CHANGERS

If you think your smartphone has changed your life, wait ‘til you see what Smartbait ™ lures do for your fi sh-ing. These water temperature activated color-changing lures are generating a lot of excitement among both professional and amateur anglers. And they’re doing this for the best reason: they catch fi sh.

These new lures were introduced at the Bassmaster Classic and the pros who used them called the tech-nology “industry changing.” The owner of the company that makes them, Michael Dingman said, “Smartbaits’ unique chemistry imitates wounded, bleeding prey fi sh, changing color at different water temperatures and depths. Predator fi sh like large bass home in on those colors of injured, bleeding fi sh and attack.”

Whether it’s in shallow or deep water, a Smartbait lure quickly changes color based on its depth and sur-rounding temperature. This makes the same lure ex-hibit a different appearance each time a cast is made. From all reports, this seems to drive predator fi sh nuts and they aggressively attack the bait.

There is a Variety of Smartbaits

The company manufacturing Smartbaits is introducing a large variety of hard baits in jerk, crank and vibrating styles. The company is also making a group of worms, grub and swimming baits in this color-changing mate-rial. Anglers can also get this new technology in re-usable, glow-in-the-dark baits which last for about 8 hours.

Realizing the potential for sales of this cool technology among younger anglers, Smartbaits has a complete line of these lures for kids. Many fi shing industry veterans have noted that this type of innovation is a good way to get kids excited about outdoor activities such as fi sh-ing. There’s nothing like non-stop action and constantly pulling fi sh out of the water to get a youngster hooked on fi shing!

More info on Smartbaits can be found at the company’s website www.Smartbaits.com

60

NORTH AMERICAN DUCK NUMBERS ARE RELEASED

In mid-July, the US Fish and Wildlife Service released its report on 2013 Trends in Duck Breeding Populations. This is based on surveys conducted in May and early June. In the report, total populations were estimated at 45.6 million breeding ducks in the surveyed area. This estimate represents a 6 per-cent decrease from last year's estimate of 48.6 million birds, and is 33 percent above the 1955-2012 long-term average.

These numbers received mixed reviews by the hunting and conservation com-munities. On one hand, the numbers of some species decreased and this is a reason for some concern. However, on the other hand, the long-term average for duck populations is substantially higher.

w w w . t h e o u t p o s t l i f e . c o m

61

WHAT FACTORS AFFECTS DUCK POPULATIONS?

The main determining factor for duck breeding suc-cess is wetland and upland habitat conditions in the key breeding landscapes of the prairies and the boreal forest. Conditions observed across the U.S. and Canadian survey areas during the 2013 Water-fowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey were improved or similar to last year in many areas due to average to above average annual precipitation, particularly in the Midwestern U.S. Southeastern Canada, south-central Alberta along the Montana border, the northeast U.S. and portions of Montana and the Dakotas did not receive as much rainfall. Total pond counts for the United States and Canada combined showed 6.9 million ponds, a 24-percent increase from last year's estimate and 35-percent above the long-term average.

The chief scientist of the preeminent conserva-tion and hunting group, Ducks Unlimited, had this to say about the reasons for these numbers. "This spring saw abundant moisture in much of the heart of North America's most important duck breeding areas," said Dale Humburg. "That bodes well for duck breeding success this summer and hopefully, for hunting this fall. But we remain concerned with continuing loss of nesting habitat in these areas. Be-cause ducks need both water and upland habitats to successfully raise their young, the ongoing loss of grasslands and wetlands across the Prairie Pothole Region will continue to impact the number of ducks in the fall fl ight.”

He continued, "This year we also experienced very late winter conditions across much of the United States and Canada. These conditions delayed the arrival of some ducks on their traditional breeding grounds and may have impacted breeding and nest-ing success."

"Even with abundant moisture on the prairies and good breeding success this year, the weather and habitat conditions the birds encounter on their fall migrations can impact local hunting success. Many areas along traditional migration routes are experi-encing signifi cant drought, and this will likely have

THE OUTPOST: DUCK NUMBERS

an effect on how many birds hunters see this fall. Other areas have seen excessive moisture, which could affect food supplies for migrating birds. And, as always, weather patterns can also have a huge impact on local hunting conditions and the timing of the migration."

WHICH SPECIES GAINED AND WHICH DECLINED?

Of the 10 species surveyed, 7 were similar to last year’s estimates, including mallard, Scaup and blue-winged teal were signifi cantly below last year's estimates and American wigeon were 23 percent above last year. Mallards, similar in num-ber to 2012, are 36 percent above the long-term average. Two species – northern pintail and scaup (lesser and greater combined) remained below their long-term average and North American Wa-terfowl Management Plan goals.

62

WHAT DOES THIS SURVEY MEAN TO HUNTERS?

These spring surveys provide the scientifi c basis for many duck management programs across North Amer-ica, including hunting season dates and bag limits. After meeting in late July, the four fl yway councils and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regulations Committee will recommend season structure and bag limits for 2013-14. Individual states will then make their specifi c selections within a federal framework of season length, bag limit and dates. Hunters should check the rules in their states for fi nal dates.

Rural TV: Saturdays at 12:30 PM (EST) Rural TV: Saturdays at 12:30 PM (EST) RFDTV: Saturdays at 4:00 PM (EST) Mondays at 7:00 AM (EST)RFDTV: Saturdays at 4:00 PM (EST) Mondays at 7:00 AM (EST)

Seen on Cable,

DirecTV 604

and

DISH 240

Thurs@ 7:00pm

Sun@ 2:30pm

Fri@ 1:00pm

All EST

Mondays - 3:00pmThursdays - NoonSundays - 1:30 and 8:30pm

65

AN EASY WAY TO GET THE TICKS OFF

Men and women who love to hunt, fi sh and spend every waking hour outdoors are susceptible to insect bites that are not only irritating but deadly. It can start with pain, itching, redness and swelling in the area of the skin, and in more pronounced cases, it can include fever, headache, fatigue, and/or a skin rash. The culprit is a tick bite, and if left untreated, it can lead to Lyme disease, which can spread to the joints, heart and nervous system.

Lauren Allen, writing for radiomd.com, notes, “you can have a tick (or three) burrowed in your skin without even feeling a thing." These evil critters are most prevalent during the months of April through September.

However, she also points out that removing ticks with tweezers, which often did not remove the tick and was impossible to use for some parts of the body, is now a swab of cotton balls away. Here’s how you get these dangerous blood suckers off your skin.

• Apply a dime sized dollop of dish or hand soap onto a damp paper towel, tissue, or cotton ball.

• Cover the tick with the soap-saturated tissue or cotton ball, and hold in place for a few seconds (15-20).

• The tick will come out all on its own and will be stuck on the towel or cotton ball when you lift it away.

It’s a good idea to look for tick bites under arms, behind ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between legs, around the waist and through hair. Also make sure to check any gear that was taken along, including clothing.

One suggestion is to put clothes worn on that outdoor adventure in the dryer on high heat for at least an hour. This will roast any ticks who hitched a ride.

Now that you’ve got a strategy for getting ticks off your skin and clothes, here’s some advice from Brad Paisley and checking for the little devils!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tiPndMqxLQ

PHOTO OF THE MONTHPHOTO OF THE MONTH

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TRAVEL - CLASSIFIEDS - GUIDES

Tony Eckler Owner / OperatorLebanon, TN

www.desperateduckhunters.com615.210.9268

We are “On Call” for spur of the moment trips but to reserve dates you must

book your hunts in advance

Desperate Duck Hunters

TO ADVERTISE CALL:

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EMAIL AT:

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Waynesville, North Carolina

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(229) 251-9929WWW.GEORGIAALLIGATORHUNTING.COM

“What one has not experienced,one will never understand in print.” ~ Isadora Duncan

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THE OTHER FALL TRADITION

1161 Blackwell Rd Newborn, GA 30056 (706) 557-0407

For 39 years we have been keeping the “Bird Hunting” tradition alive by producing lasting memories at the Plantation. Explosive coveys, outstanding dog work, and up-scale accommodations are available just one hour east of Atlanta. Season runs Oct. 1- March 31

Come just once and you will be a customer for life!

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Do you have a funny hunting or fi shing picture? • Do you have a joke that everyone should hear?Email them to: [email protected]

T h e b a c k w o o d s

THE FUNERAL

As a guitarist, I play many gigs. Recently I was asked by a funeral director to play at a grave-side service for a homeless man. He had no family or friends, so the service was to be at a pauper’s cemetery in the back country. As I was not familiar with the backwoods, I got lost.

I fi nally arrived an hour late and saw the funeral guy had evidently gone and the hearse was nowhere in sight. There were only the diggers and crew left and they were eating lunch.

I felt badly and apologized to the men for being late. I went to the side of the grave and looked down and the vault lid was already in place. I didn’t know what else to do, so I start-ed to play.

The workers put down their lunches and began to gather around. I played out my heart and soul for this man with no family and friends. I played like I’ve never played before for this homeless man.

And as I played ‘Amazing Grace,’ the workers began to weep. They wept, I wept, we all wept together. When I fi nished I packed up my guitar and started for my car. Though my head hung low, my heart was full.

As I opened the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say, “I never seen nothin’ like that before and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.”

Apparently, I’m still lost…