The Fly Hunter
Post: 27 February 17:30
Fly - News
Strung Sporting Journal Strung is a sporting magazine focused on fly fishing, upland hunting, waterfowl hunting, big game hunting, wild foods and conservation. Fly fishing magazine, upland magazine, waterfowl magazine, big game magazine. A photo-centric magazine made for the modern sportsman. Website https://strungmag.com/ Print Subscription Strung Magazine Format Digital & Print Publisher RESTRUNG MEDIA LLC #StrungSportingjournal #Hunting #Nature #Fishing #HuntingJournal #NatureJournal #Journal
Post: 24 February 08:58
Two for Monday on my solo fly mission
Post: 24 April 09:30
These little buggers usually fly pretty low and require being at water level to get any background in the photo.
Post: 19 September 00:55
Hunting with my son is something I have wanted to do since he first opened his eyes. Our second hunt was on an exciting fly-in hunt where my father was the hunter. While he didn't finish the hunt smiling as hard as you see here, I know he had the deep satisfaction all mountain hunters crave after working their tails off in pursuit of adventure.
Post: 19 April 09:53
RINGS REVEAL THE SECRETS OF WOODCOCK Woodcocks have many secrets. They are not gregarious birds, active at night, migratory - not always nearby. Philopatric - that is, they almost always return with an accuracy of 10 meters (!) not only to their birthplace, but also to their wintering place, as the rings and GPS/GSM beacons "say", in 16 countries of the world. And this is without the Far East and Asia! But where do woodcocks fly in the first year of their life, because in one clearing there can be nesting birds that have arrived from different places and countries of wintering... To the country of their father who wintered in Scandinavia or their mother who flew in from wintering in France? How do they decide where to fly? Nobody knows. Woodcocks settle evenly and everywhere where the moist soils are rich in fat earthworms. They don't need competitors, they like to eat themselves! A careful study of the ring return database gave us proof that chicks from one brood fly to different places, and even countries: On May 29, 1956, two chicks were ringed in Latvia, which were BOTH killed! This is the ONLY registered case in more than 100 years of ringing these birds. The first woodcock was killed in France in the Saône-et-Loire department on March 27, 1960, the second was killed in Italy in the province of Gorizia & Udine on October 19 of the same year. The ring numbers are 292666 and 292664, respectively. Let's say thank you to the ringers who, receiving only 10-12% of their rings returned, help to reveal the secrets of forest waders.
Post: 29 December 23:22
At 78 years of age, cancer has pretty much taken away my ability to climb mountains in search of elk. Don’t feel sorry for me, I have killed plenty of elk, mostly cows for the good eating. The good Lord has allowed me more than a charmed life. I have a wonderful family with great kids, grandkids and great grandkids and I have fly fished (my main sport) all over the world, sometimes in places I never dreamed I would go. My youngest son, Stefan, and I decided to do something we had never done before. We planned to go on a guided elk hunt. I work for the International Sportsmen’s Expositions telling fly-fishing tales and doing fly tying demonstrations. In my spare time I began to canvas the floor, down in Denver, looking for a suitable elk-hunting outfit. QRS Outfitters out of Meeker, Colo., was particularly attractive, and they thought an early season muzzleloader hunt would fit the bill for what we were looking for, so we booked our hunt. Neither of us has owned a muzzleloader, nor had we ever fired one. Not to be deterred, we purchased our guns. On the appointed day, we arrived in Meeker and were directed to the lodge. The next morning we set out to hunt out of separate blinds for bull elk. While traveling to his blind, Stefan and his guide spotted a large 6-point bull, and with a little cow calling Stefan shot his bull barely an hour into his hunt. They had not even reached their blind! Like a lot of fathers, I get more excited about the success of my children than my own success. I couldn’t believe the size of Stefan’s bull, a great mossy-horned animal.
Post: 13 October 23:12
Rachelle Hedrick — Fishing Influencer & Outdoor Blogger | Smoke Hole Outfitters, Cabins WV Rachelle Hedrick is an outdoor Influencer and Blogger, co-owner of Smoke Hole Outfitters in Cabins, West Virginia. Profile covers trout outfitting, fly-fishing lessons, DSG Outerwear work, locations and field practices. Executive summary — fishing Influencer and outdoor Blogger Rachelle Hedrick is a regionally prominent outdoor Influencer and Blogger, co-owner of Smoke Hole Outfitters and an active team manager for women’s apparel brand DSG Outerwear. Her public work blends hands-on outfitting (trout production, guided fly-fishing and instructional programming), hospitality at Smoke Hole Resort, and branded content focused on encouraging women and families to participate in outdoor recreation. Business & core activities Rachelle and her husband operate Smoke Hole Outfitters within Smoke Hole Resort, offering year-round trout services: a Catch-and-Keep pond, a Catch-and-Release trophy trout stream, guided fly-fishing lessons and cabin lodging on the Potomac River corridor. The outfitter is positioned as a family-oriented destination that converts visitor experiences into educational content and bookings. Role as Influencer and Blogger In addition to guiding, Hedrick manages Hunt Team and sponsorship activity for DSG Outerwear—overseeing social media, sponsorships, consumer sales and design elements for a women-focused outdoor apparel company. That dual operational role amplifies her reach: she promotes hands-on fishing instruction and hospitality while serving as a practical voice for women’s participation in hunting and fishing. How she prefers to operate in the field Rachelle’s field profile is instructor-led and hospitality oriented rather than expeditionary: Guided fly-fishing instruction: core activity—progressive lessons from casting fundamentals to trout-specific fly selection and presentation. Catch-and-release trophy stream management: year-round stream maintenance and client-guided trophy experiences that emphasize fish care and angler technique. Catch-and-keep pond services: family-friendly angling that supports turnkey visitor experiences and on-site hospitality. Her published materials and video features prioritize teachable moments, safety, and conversion of beginners into repeat anglers. Types of hunting and additional outdoor activities While the Hedricks’ primary public offering is fishing and outfitting, Rachelle documents occasional hunting participation—family hunts and youth black-bear season posts appear on her social channels. Public content places hunting as a complementary lifestyle element rather than the core business focus. Where she operates & terrain All primary commercial and content activity is anchored at Smoke Hole Resort in Cabins, West Virginia—riverine and Appalachian terrain ideal for stocked trout experiences and guided streams. The property includes cavern tours, log cabin rentals and a retail component, giving her channels multiple hooks for local SEO and experiential content. Notable outcomes and audience value Rachelle’s measurable audience value arises from converting on-site experiences into repeatable media assets: instructional reels, client testimonials and DSG Outerwear activations that help drive bookings and apparel visibility. Her role managing DSG Hunt Team and producing how-to content positions her as a practical authority for women anglers and small-group outfitting. Weapons, gear and technical profile Public materials emphasize fishing and hospitality gear over firearms or archery. Typical equipment highlighted includes fly rods and reels, waders, trout rigs, hatch-appropriate flies, pond management systems and guest safety kits. When hunting appears in content, weapon specifics are not a focal point—posts emphasize family participation and seasonality rather than gear breakdowns. Conclusion & call to action Rachelle Hedrick is a destination-focused outdoor Influencer and Blogger whose primary public work centers on trout outfitting, fly-fishing instruction and women’s outdoor apparel activation. Editorial and SEO placements should foreground “trout fishing Cabins WV,” “fly fishing lessons,” and “Smoke Hole Outfitters” to capture high-intent local searches. For bookings, instruction and seasonal updates, follow Smoke Hole Outfitters directly. Rachelle Hedrick's Instagram (27.1k followers): @rachellehedrick
Post: 3 September 14:42
Gray's Sporting Journal Gray's Sporting Journal is a magazine dedicated to the pursuit of outdoor recreation, with an emphasis on hunting and fishing. Gray's Sporting Journal is more than a collection of articles about sportsmen and their exploits—it’s a celebration of the human connection to the natural world. With its blend of literary brilliance, visual charm, and deep respect for tradition, it stands out as one of the most elegant and inspiring publications in the outdoor genre. Gray's Sporting Journal was established in 1975. The magazine is published seven times a year. The headquarters is in Augusta, Georgia. It employs perfect binding and always features a work of outdoor art on its cover. Gray's includes poetry, lengthy works of fiction, fine art, and photo journals in the same issue. The magazine is part of MCC Magazines, LLC, a subsidiary of Morris Communications, which also owns publications such as American Angler, Fly Tyer, and Saltwater Fly Fishing. The company acquired Gray's Sporting Journal in 1989. In July 2017 Russ Lumpkin became the editor-in-chief of Gray's Sporting Journal. Known for its photography as well as its fiction, it has published the work of such writers as E. Annie Proulx, Rick Bass, Pete Fromm, Ron Carlson, and C.B. Bernard. What Makes Gray's Sporting Journal outstanding? Gray's Mag using a "blind reader" to select articles, poems, and stories for publication. The blind reader receives only the text of the submitted work, not the name of the author, thus theoretically preventing publication of works based on fame only. • Magazine Literary Excellence. One of the standout features of Gray's Sporting Journal is its commitment to quality storytelling. Each issue is filled with beautifully crafted articles written by some of the best outdoor writers in the business. Whether it's a reflective essay on the quiet moments of fly fishing or an exhilarating tale of a big-game hunt, the prose is as captivating as the subjects themselves. • Gray's Sporting Journal Artistic Flair. The journal's design and illustrations are nothing short of stunning. Featuring exquisite watercolor artwork, hand-drawn maps, and classic typography, every page feels like a work of art. It’s not uncommon to find yourself pausing mid-read just to admire the visuals. • Gray's Sporting Timeless Appeal. Unlike many modern publications focused on speed and sensationalism, Gray's Sporting Journal takes a slower, more thoughtful approach. Its content transcends trends, focusing instead on enduring themes of nature, heritage, and personal connection. This makes it feel relevant whether you’re reading a current issue or one from decades ago. • Magazine Community and Tradition. For those who appreciate the rituals and traditions of the sporting world, this journal serves as both a guide and a tribute. From exploring remote hunting lodges to discussing the craftsmanship behind handmade rods and guns, Gray's Sporting Journal honors the people, places, and practices that define these pursuits. Many Gray's Sporting Journal issues align with the changing seasons, reflecting the rhythms of outdoor life. • Spring Gray’s magazine Issues: Celebrates the renewal of nature, with stories about springtime hunts, trout fishing, and bird migrations. • Summer Gray’s magazine Issues: Explores warm-weather activities like saltwater fishing, upland game hunting, and camping excursions. • Fall Gray’s magazine Issues: Highlights the excitement of autumn hunting seasons, including deer, elk, and waterfowl pursuits. • Winter Gray’s magazine Issues: Offers tales of winter survival, ice fishing, and the quiet solitude of snowy landscapes. Each issue of Gray's Sporting Journal is designed to be cherished and preserved. Its high-quality paper, perfect binding, and attention to detail ensure that it stands the test of time. Many collectors proudly display back issues on their shelves, treating them as works of art in their own right. Gray's Sporting Journal Content and Themes Each issue revolves around timeless themes that resonate with sportsmen and nature enthusiasts alike. Magazincontent typically includes: • Feature Articles are the heart of the journal, featuring long-form essays and narratives about hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures. Stories might range from a reflective piece on a quiet day spent fly-fishing in remote mountain streams to an action-packed account of a big-game hunt in Africa. • Hunters Profiles and Interviews. Readers are introduced to fascinating individuals who shape the sporting world—outfitters, guides, artisans, and conservationists whose passion for the outdoors shines through their work. • Conservation and Nature.A significant portion of each issue is dedicated to environmental stewardship and wildlife preservation. Articles explore topics such as habitat restoration, sustainable hunting practices, and the importance of maintaining balance between human activity and nature. • Gear and Craftsmanship. Gray's Sporting Journal includes sections devoted to the tools of the trade. From handmade fly rods to custom shotguns, these pieces celebrate the craftsmanship and history behind classic sporting equipment. Poetry and Reflections Gray's Sporting Journal isn’t just for professional hunters or anglers; anyone with a love for nature, adventure, and well-told stories will find joy in its pages. If you enjoy savoring the finer details of life— whether it’s the scent of pine trees during a morning hike or the satisfaction of tying your own flies—this journal speaks directly to your soul. Editor-in-chief Russ Lumpkin Staff writers Terry Wieland, Miles Nolte, Chris Camuto and Brooke Chilvers Categories Outdoor Sporting Literature Publisher John D. Lunn Total circulation (2017) 28,200 Company Morris Communications Country USA Based in Augusta, Georgia Website www.grayssportingjournal.com #grayssportingjournal #USA #Hunting #Nature #Fishing #HuntingMagazine #NatureMagazine #Magazine
Post: 27 January 18:05
Broken Arrow Lodge—Alder, MT Located out of Alder, Montana, the Broken Arrow lodge sponsors guided trips for bow hunting, elk hunting, rifle hunting, and mountain lion hunting, all located in the expansive Montana backcountry. Visitors pay for guided trips between 3 – 5 days (4 – 6 nights), and the Broken Arrow Lodge provides luxurious backcountry accommodations, including wall tents, wood stoves, carpeted floors, and full bathroom and shower amenities. There are few backcountry “camping” experiences that will match the Broken Arrow’s attention to detail and expertise in the field. Trips are available throughout the year, and vary depending on weather conditions and hunting restrictions for the area. For hunters who also wield a fly rod, the Broken Arrow Lodge offers guided fly fishing trips as well.
Post: 20 October 10:07
Best Falconry Telemetry Systems: GPS & Radio Tracking for Falcons. Falconry is a centuries-old tradition that demands precision, patience, and a deep bond between falconer and bird. But even the most experienced falconers know that once a raptor takes flight, anything can happen. That’s where falconry telemetry systems come in — not as luxury, but as necessity. These systems have revolutionized the sport, offering real-time tracking, security, and peace of mind. Why Falconry Telemetry Systems Matter Losing a bird is every falconer’s nightmare. Raptors can fly for miles, disappear behind terrain, or get caught in unexpected weather. In the past, many promising birds were lost forever. Today, telemetry systems allow falconers to track their birds with pinpoint accuracy, even when they’re out of sight. Telemetry isn’t just about recovery — it’s about safety, training, and maximizing performance. With the right system, you can monitor flight patterns, assess hunting behavior, and intervene when necessary. Whether you fly in open plains or dense forests, telemetry gives you control without compromising the bird’s freedom. What Is Falconry Telemetry? Falconry telemetry refers to electronic tracking systems attached to a bird of prey. These systems transmit signals that can be picked up by a receiver, allowing the falconer to locate the bird in real time. There are two primary technologies used: • Radio telemetry: Uses VHF signals to triangulate the bird’s position. • GPS telemetry: Offers precise location data, often with mapping and logging features. Both systems have their place, and choosing the right one depends on your terrain, bird species, and flying style. Why Attach Telemetry to Falcons? Falcons are fast, agile, and capable of covering vast distances in minutes. Unlike hawks or eagles, they often fly high and far, making visual tracking nearly impossible. Telemetry ensures: • Recovery after long flights or missed returns • Monitoring during training sessions • Protection from theft or injury • Data collection for performance analysis Mounting a transmitter is a standard practice among serious falconers. It’s not invasive and, when done correctly, doesn’t hinder the bird’s movement or comfort. Types of Falconry Telemetry Systems 1. Radio Telemetry Systems These systems use a small transmitter that emits a VHF signal. The falconer uses a directional antenna and receiver to locate the bird by signal strength and direction. Mounting options: • Leg mount: Easy to attach, but can snag in vegetation. • Tail mount: Aerodynamic and unobtrusive, but risky if the feather is lost. • Backpack mount: Secure and balanced, ideal for long flights. • Neck mount: Less common due to potential discomfort. Pros: • Lightweight • Reliable in remote areas • Long battery life Cons: • Requires manual triangulation • Limited data (no GPS coordinates) 2. GPS Telemetry Systems GPS systems provide exact coordinates, often displayed on a smartphone or tablet. Some models include logging features to track flight paths over time. Pros: • Real-time location on maps • Historical flight data • Easier recovery in complex terrain Cons: • Heavier than radio units • Shorter battery life • More expensive Key Features to Consider When choosing a telemetry system, consider: • Range: Radio systems typically offer 20–80 km depending on terrain. GPS systems vary but often reach 10–30 km with real-time updates. • Weight: Transmitters must be light enough not to burden the bird. Most weigh between 5–12 grams. • Durability: Units should be weatherproof and impact-resistant. • Battery life: Radio transmitters can last 5–30 days. GPS units usually offer 8–48 hours of active tracking. • Frequency: Common VHF bands include 216 MHz and 433 MHz. Choose legal and interference-free frequencies for your region. Leading Brands and Prices 🛠️ Marshall Radio Telemetry One of the most respected names in falconry telemetry. Offers both GPS and radio systems. • RT GPS System: Includes GPS transmitter, receiver, and app integration. Price: ~$1,200–$1,500 USD • RT UHF System: High-performance radio telemetry with long range. Price: ~$700–$1,000 USD • TrackPack Harness: Secure backpack-style mount. Price: ~$50–$80 USD 🛠️ Ben Long Falconry (UK) Known for durable, easy-to-use radio systems. • Black Falcon 3-Channel System (433 MHz) Includes receiver, transmitter, tail mount, and accessories. Price: £525–£685 GBP (~$650–$850 USD) A 🛠️ L.L. Electronics Offers customizable systems for different bird sizes and terrains. • Basic VHF System Price: ~$400–$600 USD • Advanced GPS Logger Price: ~$1,000+ USD Real-World Use: A Falconer’s Perspective As a falconer who flies peregrines and sakers in mixed terrain, I rely on telemetry every day. My GPS unit has saved birds from being lost in fog, chased by larger raptors, or distracted by prey. I’ve used tail mounts for speed flights and backpack mounts for long-range hunts. The investment pays off not just in bird safety, but in peace of mind. Telemetry also helps with training. By reviewing flight logs, I can adjust my release points, anticipate behavior, and fine-tune my birds’ conditioning. It’s not just a tool — it’s part of the craft. Final Thoughts Falconry telemetry systems are no longer optional for serious falconers. Whether you fly in open fields or dense forests, these systems provide the safety, control, and data needed to elevate your practice. From basic radio units to advanced GPS trackers, there’s a solution for every budget and bird. In addition to tracking and recovery, falconry telemetry systems play a vital role in preventing bird theft and unauthorized handling. High-value raptors such as gyrfalcons, peregrines, and hybrid breeds are often targets for poaching or illegal trade. Investing in telemetry is investing in your bird’s future — and your own legacy as a falconer.
Post: 21 September 08:03
The Field Magazine British monthly magazine about country matters and field sports. The Field Magazine was started as a weekly magazine in 1853, and has remained in print since then; Robert Smith Surtees was among the founders. In the nineteenth century, it was known as Field: The Country Gentleman's Newspaper. The magazine is one of the earliest hobby magazines. It is published by Future plc. Founded in 1853, the editors The Field cover the best of hunting, fly fishing, hunting, sporting dogs and everything else that makes life in the British countryside exceptionally enjoyable. Editor: Alexandra Henton Frequency: Monthly Circulation: 28,294 Print and digital editions. First issue: 1853; 172 years ago Company: Future plc Country: United Kingdom Language: English Website: https://thefield.co.uk Alexandra Henton,THE FIELD Editor: “Dickens was one of the first Field readers. Well, he might have been – he was certainly drinking pals with The Field’s first editor. Back in 1853, the magazine was founded for those who loved shooting, fishing, hunting and could sniff out a decent claret at 1,000 paces. It’s still like that today. The Field gives its readers the best, whether it’s guns, rods, writing or photography. We like to think it’s like a great party – entertaining, informative and provocative.” The Field Magazine is a monthly glossy dedicated to those brave souls who shoot, fish and hunt way beyond the call of duty. Since 1853, its staff has selflessly brought its readers the cream of rural life, be it pheasant shooting, dry-fly fishing or the distinct merits of Cheval Blanc. If you love fieldsports, errant terriers and very foxy friends at hunt balls, The Field is for you. Field #Magazine #Hunting #Future_plc #United_Kingdom
Post: 14 January 11:50
Sahara Desert & Coastal Bird Hunting in Morocco 2025: Game, Regions, Strategy Morocco’s hunting potential goes far beyond the Atlas Mountains. The Sahara Desert and coastal wetlands offer distinct opportunities for hunters targeting desert-adapted game and migratory birds. If you’re looking for rare trophies and diverse terrain, these zones deliver. --- 📍 Sahara Desert Hunting: Barbary Gazelle & Desert Fox The Moroccan Sahara — especially near Merzouga and the Draa-Tafilalet region — is home to elusive desert species: • Barbary Gazelle: Fast, alert, and adapted to harsh terrain. Spot-and-stalk hunting across rocky outcrops and dunes. • Desert Fox: Nocturnal predator, hunted with thermal optics or bait setups. • Sand Hare & Desert Birds: Secondary targets during multi-day hunts. Terrain: Sand dunes, dry wadis, rocky plateaus. Climate: Daytime heat (30–40°C), nighttime cold (5–10°C). Gear: Lightweight boots, hydration packs, sun protection, long-range optics. Access: Fly into Errachidia or Ouarzazate. Outfitters provide 4x4 transport and desert camps. --- 📅 Sahara Hunting Season 2025 • Gazelle: March to May • Fox & Hare: October to February • Birds: Vary by species; check with outfitter --- 🦆 Coastal Bird Hunting: Migratory Waterfowl & Game Birds Morocco’s Atlantic coast — especially near Rabat, Casablanca, and Agadir — is a hotspot for migratory birds: • Ducks & Geese: Peak season October to January. Hunt near lakes, estuaries, and rice fields. • Barbary Partridge & Quail: Found in scrublands and foothills. Ideal for shotgun hunting with dogs. • Herons & Waders: Present in wetlands; often hunted during combo trips. Best Zones: • Sidi Moussa Wetlands • Oualidia Lagoon • Souss-Massa National Park • Moulouya River Delta Methods: • Decoy setups in blinds • Walk-up hunts with pointing dogs • Driven bird hunts in organized groups --- 🏕️ Logistics & Lodging • Desert Camps: Tented setups with full board, guides, and water supply. • Coastal Lodges: Hotels or guesthouses near wetlands. • Transport: 4x4 vehicles for desert; standard vans for coastal hunts. • Permits: Handled by outfitter. All hunts require valid licenses. --- 🔫 Recommended Firearms • Gazelle: .243, 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 • Fox & Hare: .22-250, .223 Rem • Birds: 12-gauge shotgun with to shot • Ammo: Bring your own — local supply is limited and expensive --- 🎯 Bag Limits (2025) • Gazelle: 1–2 per hunter • Fox: 2–3 per trip • Ducks/Geese: Up to 10/day • Partridge/Quail: Up to 15/day • Hare: 1–2/day --- 🧠 Pro Tips for Desert & Coastal Hunts • Scout terrain via satellite maps before arrival • Use thermal scopes for fox at night • Hunt birds at dawn and dusk for best flight activity • Combine desert and coastal hunts for a 7–10 day package • Hydrate aggressively in the Sahara — dehydration kills accuracy 🧭 Travel & Entry Tips for Hunters • Airports: For Sahara hunts, fly into Errachidia (ERH) or Ouarzazate (OZZ). For coastal hunts, use Casablanca (CMN), Rabat (RBA), or Agadir (AGA). • Firearm Transport: Most outfitters offer rental rifles. If bringing your own, secure import permits in advance and declare at customs. • Documentation: Passport, hunting license, insurance, and outfitter contract are mandatory. • Language: Arabic and French are official. Most hunting guides speak English or provide translation. --- 🏁 Final Notes for Serious Hunters If you’re looking for a hunting experience that goes beyond fenced ranches and overused game trails, Morocco’s Sahara and coastal zones offer raw, tactical challenges: • Spotting gazelles across 1,000-meter flats • Calling ducks into blinds with the Atlantic wind at your back • Tracking desert foxes under moonlight • Combining mountain, desert, and wetland hunts in one trip This isn’t canned hunting — it’s real field work. With the right outfitter, gear, and mindset, Morocco delivers rare trophies and unforgettable terrain.
Post: 22 October 23:53
Talarik Creek Lodge: Hunting for Trophy Rainbow Trout I answered him that it was not, and he shrugged off the 18-inch Arctic grayling on the end of my line like it was a piece of weed. My wife had sent us fishing that evening to catch some fresh grayling for dinner and our goal was now achieved, with four large, translucent-white-fleshed fish having been plucked from the cold waters of the Newhalen River. The author’s son Lucas with what he calls “a real fish” also defined as any rainbow trout over 20 inches caught on a fly rod. What is it about rainbow trout that incites such excitement? Why is it that when fishing guides congregate around a fire the conversation always finds its way to rainbows, not salmon, not char, not pike, but definitely rainbows? “Keep it in the water,” “Careful, don’t drop it,” and “Nice release,” are all phrases I’ve heard said and spoken myself. I have a personal admiration for the green-speckled creatures, and rainbow trout fishing has a cult following that comes close to an actual religion, but not everyone in Alaska shares these feelings. Before statehood, the Territory of Alaska put a bounty on rainbow trout (other vermin to be eliminated included bald eagles and seals). Although the state has evolved since the days of trout bounties, in some ways its focus is the same: food. Rainbow trout are not salmon; they don’t taste like salmon; they’re not as fat as salmon; and they can’t be harvested in great quantities like salmon. This fact alone puts them far down the list of importance to rural Alaskans. Traditionally, rainbows in southwestern Alaska, Bristol Bay, and Iliamna are fed to dogs or made into specialty foods like fish Agutuk. Most of these fish are harvested when they are in their pre-spawning migration under the ice. The author with a beautiful rainbow taken from small pocket water in an overlooked creek. An angler willing to walk relatively short distances though obstacles like swamp, tundra, and bear-infested brush can reach fishing Nirvana, virgin water! Living year-round in Iliamna with my family and owning and operating Talarik Creek Lodge affords me a diverse perspective. As a person who appreciates irony, the diverse user groups that utilize rainbow trout do not subscribe to the same ideologies. I cannot even imagine the horror that both clients and nonresident lodge owners in the region would feel if they came to any of the top rainbow subsistence fisheries, which operate in late winter or early spring. Subsistence nets under the ice and dozens of ice fishing holes can sometimes result in the harvest of over 100 rainbow trout from a single creek in a day. These are the same fish we have gone through painstaking measures to gain that perfect, safe release that we all strive for. The harvest is so significant that the evidence is apparent from the air, with snowmachine highways to the choice creeks, the snow stained by blood, and the frozen trout piled in sleds like cordwood. Before you, my fellow trout-worshipping angler friend, have a heart attack and call the Alaska State Wildlife Troopers, keep in mind this is a legal subsistence activity, and this is the way it’s always been. In fact, these activities are actually declining here in Bristol Bay, mostly due to the increasing scarcity of sled-dog teams here and across all of rural Alaska, which were the main consumers of the trout. Not all the traditional harvest has been done by rural Alaskans. It was not that distant in the past that rainbow trout (and all species for that matter) were treated very differently by us. Before the invention of the fiberglass-replica mount, the biggest, most beautiful, oldest fish were killed by lodge owners and fishing clients alike for skin mounts. Many of the old trophy-fish pictures my in-laws have in their old lodge albums are of frozen fish. It was a different time, and I’m happy to have a 100% rainbow-release policy at my own lodge. Having married into a sportfishing-lodge family, there are certain expectations that my father-in-law, John Baechler, who ran several lodges in Iliamna for nearly forty years, has set upon me. Most of these involve greasing jet units, changing oil, and properly running our custom Bentz inboard jet boats, none of which I do to his standards. Having come from a hunting-guide background, I had a lot to learn a decade ago when I began fish guiding. I made plenty of mistakes as my wife Martha and I built our own lodge clientele. There were many differences that I encountered in the transition between hunt guiding and fish guiding, but there was one type of fishing that had strong parallels: rainbow trout fishing. In both hunting and rainbow fishing, the participants are fanatics, and unlike any other type of fishing, big rainbows are hunted, not fished. Big fish, just like a big Dall sheep, can be caught by luck, but most quarries of either the aquatic or terrestrial variety are won through thoughtful determination. Although my father-in-law may not admit it, we have been in a fishing derby of epic proportions over the last ten years. With his four decades of experience and the unquestionable abundance of monster rainbow trout in the surrounding Iliamna watersheds in the 1980s and 1990s, it has been difficult to compete. The only advantage I have is that although my father-in-law is a fantastic angler, he is not a hunter. It was with this limited skill set that I trudged forward in search of exceptional fish for my clients. Over the years I’ve been fortunate to bring a few impressive photographs to my father-in-law, including two separate lake trout that have been featured on the cover of Fish Alaska and some frighteningly large northern pike, but no truly monster rainbow trout. That being said, we had hit the magic 30-inch mark on several June “snakes,” post-spawn rainbows that had no “shoulders,” and any client who has moderate skill with a fly rod could expect several upper-20s fish during their six-day stay. As exciting as it is to catch amazingly colored, wild, sky-dancing rainbows in the 20- to 30-inch range, I yearned for more. I wanted to have a client catch a fish with the wow factor. Alaska is the Last Frontier state, with an image of rugged mountains, jagged glaciers, and innumerable rivers and streams traversing the land. The untouched wilderness image has its truth and its lies. It always makes me smile when a first-time client fishing a drainage like Moraine Creek asks me, “Do you think anyone has ever been here before?” The sad truth is there is not a lot of water that hasn’t already been worked over by skilled and dedicated anglers. There are, however, still waters to pioneer. These virgin waters are not mighty rivers or lakes accessible by every float plane from Homer to Anchorage. The waters that haven’t been fished all have one thing in common: They are unfriendly for people in some way. It might be that a given creek is too brushy to cast or simply that the access is too demanding for most clients. Often, some of these smaller tributaries are overlooked by most lodge owners and managers because they don’t hold the numbers of fish required to entertain a Beaver or Otter full of guests for a day. The most powerful limitation is time. These waters require such an incredible amount of time to find and scout in the first place that the vast majority of lodge owners and managers, who are predominantly nonresidents, can’t justify the time required during the season and the risk of having clients get skunked on some wild goose chase trying to grasp at an imaginary dream of pioneering a virgin trout water.
Post: 2 November 10:03
So simple, so neighborly ...you can cross the bridge over the thundering Victoria Falls from 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe to 🇿🇲 Zambia! ‼️ If you have always dreamed of traveling around Africa and feel a passion for photo safaris, watching wild animals and nature in different parts of the world, then we invite you to visit two countries at once in one tour. 🛩 Fly to Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls. Stay in the old colonial-style Victoria Falls Hotel and enjoy the views of the falls from the Zimbabwean side. Right after the bridge over the falls dividing Zimbabwe and Zambia, you can cross to the city of Livingstone and see the natural beauty from the opposite side. The equally old Royal Livingstone Hotel 🏨 on the Zambian side of the falls offers its guests not only luxury accommodation, but also many interesting activities, as well as unlimited access to the falls and the national park along the banks of the Zambezi River. We organize unforgettable photo safaris, flights over the falls, walks along the Zambezi, picnics and excursions for you ❤️ 👉 And of course, hunting in Zambia and Zimbabwe as the best way to relax and recharge. 💬 write to Telegram (https://t.me/safari_stalker) 📞 +7 903 755-79-05 #safari_in_africa
Post: 21 April 11:03
‘Field and Stream’ has been the preeminent American outdoors publication for over a century with a current monthly circulation exceeding 1,000,000. It was the outgrowth of a periodical entitled ‘Northwestern Field and Stream’ which was first published in St Paul Minnesota in 1895. A year later, John P Burkhard acquired this publication, renamed it, and dubbed it “A Journal for the True Sportsman”. As his first editor, Burkhard hired Charles Hallock, stealing him away from ‘Forest and Stream’, the leading outdoor magazine of the time which had been published regularly since 1873 but was eventually absorbed in 1930 by the increasingly popular ‘Field and Stream’. Hunting, fishing and camping were, and continue to be, the strongest focuses of the magazine. There have been more than 150 covers depicting the various forms of fishing, and many are specifically about fly fishing. Editor-in-Chief:Colin Kearns General Manager: Adam Morath Total circulation: (December 2012) 1,254,889 (2012) Company:Field & Stream Country:United States Language:English fieldandstream.com #FieldandStream #UnitedStates #Hunting #fishing #Охота #camping
Post: 23 January 16:01
Review of the Pulsar Helion XP50 Thermal Imaging Scope As an avid outdoorsman and wildlife enthusiast, I've had the opportunity to use the Pulsar Helion XP50 thermal imaging scope extensively over the last few months. This device has generated a lot of buzz in the community, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. Here’s my honest assessment based on my experiences, including both its strengths and weaknesses. Pros: Exceptional Image Quality: The Pulsar Helion XP50 delivers impressive thermal resolution. With a 640x480 resolution and a high refresh rate of 50 Hz, the clarity and detail of the images are outstanding. It allows me to identify and track wildlife at considerable distances, which is crucial during my night hikes or hunting trips. User-Friendly Interface: The scope is equipped with an intuitive menu and responsive controls. Navigating through different modes and settings is smooth, enabling quick adjustments on the fly without breaking my focus during critical moments. Versatile Modes: The Helion XP50 features multiple imaging modes, including a color palette selection that enhances detail in various conditions. The "White Hot" and "Black Hot" modes, along with the "Red Hot" mode, provide flexibility depending on environmental factors, making it easier to spot animals in diverse terrains. Durability and Build Quality: The device feels robust and can withstand harsh weather conditions. It's waterproof (IPX7 rated), which gives me confidence when using it in inclement weather. I appreciate a product that stands up to the rigors of outdoor use. Long Battery Life: The Helion XP50 offers a respectable battery life, lasting up to 8 hours. This means I can spend extended periods in the field without worrying about recharging or carrying spare batteries. Cons: Pricey Investment: One of the most significant drawbacks of the Pulsar Helion XP50 is its price point. It falls into the premium category, making it less accessible for casual users or those new to thermal imaging. This can be a barrier for many potential buyers. Weight and Size: While the build quality is excellent, the scope is on the heavier side. This may not be an issue for those who are accustomed to carrying gear, but for extended use during long hikes or tracking sessions, the weight can become cumbersome. Learning Curve: Although the interface is user-friendly, fully mastering all the features and settings does require some time and experience. New users may find themselves overwhelmed at first, especially if they have not used a thermal scope before. Limited Zoom Options: The optical zoom capabilities are somewhat basic compared to other high-end thermal scopes. While the digital zoom helps extend the reach, it doesn’t offer the same quality as optical zoom, leading to a slight loss of detail in distant targets. Connectivity Issues: The Helion XP50 has Wi-Fi capabilities for streaming and recording, but I encountered occasional connectivity problems.
Post: 26 December 17:48
Review of the Pulsar Axion XQ38 Thermal Monocular I recently had the opportunity to test the Pulsar Axion XQ38 thermal monocular, and I must say, my experience has been quite enlightening. Here’s a balanced overview of the device, highlighting its strengths and areas for improvement. Pros: Exceptional Image Quality: The Axion XQ38 boasts an impressive thermal sensitivity, allowing for sharp and detailed imagery. Whether I'm tracking wildlife at dawn or surveying a property at night, the crispness of the thermal images has consistently amazed me. Compact and Lightweight: One of the key selling points of this monocular is its portability. Weighing just over 300 grams, it's easy to carry around in my backpack without feeling burdened. The compact design means I can maneuver it comfortably during long hours of use. User-Friendly Interface: The controls are intuitively laid out, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly. Within minutes of picking it up, I was able to customize the display and start utilizing its features effectively. Long Battery Life: This thermal monocular has an impressive battery performance, lasting several hours on a single charge. This reliability allows me to focus on my activities without constantly worrying about recharging. Robust Build Quality: The Pulsar Axion XQ38 is built to withstand harsh conditions. Its rugged exterior gives me the confidence to use it in various environments without fear of damage from drops or exposure to the elements. Cons: Price Point: While the features and performance are noteworthy, the cost can be prohibitive for casual users or hobbyists. It’s certainly an investment, and for those new to thermal imaging, it might be challenging to justify the expense. Limited Field of View: While the device excels in detail recognition, the field of view is somewhat narrower compared to other thermal monoculars in a similar price range. This limitation can make it more challenging to track moving subjects or get a broader perspective at a glance. Software Features: Although the basic functionalities are excellent, the software could benefit from additional features. For instance, more advanced image processing options or built-in recording could enhance the overall user experience. Weight Distribution: While it is lightweight, the design feels slightly front-heavy, particularly during prolonged use. This may cause some discomfort if held for extended periods without support. Learning Curve: For users who are not familiar with thermal imaging, there can be a learning curve in understanding how to best utilize all the features effectively. Initial setup and adjustments might take some time for newcomers. In conclusion, the Pulsar Axion XQ38 thermal monocular is a robust and capable device that delivers excellent thermal imaging performance in a compact package. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it particularly well-suited for wildlife observation #Pulsar #Axion #XQ3
Post: 25 December 00:22
iRay Saim NV SCD 35 Digital Scope Review I recently had the chance to test out the iRay Saim NV SCD 35 digital scope, and I’d like to share my experience - both what I loved and what I think could be improved. As someone who enjoys night hunting and wildlife observation, I have had the opportunity to use various scopes, and this one has certainly made an impression. iRay Pros: High-Quality Imaging: One of the standout features of the iRay Saim NV SCD 35 is its impressive image quality. The resolution is excellent, even in low-light conditions, allowing for clear and detailed visuals. This is especially valuable during night hunts. User-Friendly Interface: I found the scope very easy to operate. The menu system is intuitive, and it didn’t take long to get familiar with all the settings. Adjusting brightness and contrast on the fly enhances the experience significantly. Robust Build: The build quality is commendable. The scope feels solid and durable, which is reassuring when you’re out in the field. It has survived a few bumps and scrapes without any noticeable damage, demonstrating good resilience. Advanced Features: The iRay Saim NV SCD 35 comes loaded with advanced features such as digital zoom and image stabilization. These features contribute to a better viewing experience, especially when targeting moving animals or objects. Excellent Battery Life: I was pleasantly surprised by the battery longevity. The scope can last through extended sessions, which is critical when you’re out for hours at a time. It's comforting to not worry about running out of battery mid-hunt. iRay Cons: Price Point: While the performance of the iRay Saim NV SCD 35 is impressive, it comes at a higher price point compared to other digital scopes on the market. This might be a deterrent for budget-conscious users. Weight: Although I appreciate the robust build, the scope is on the heavier side. For long treks or prolonged periods of use, the added weight can be a bit cumbersome. A lighter design would make it easier to handle. Limited Zoom Range: The zoom functionality, while being a great feature, could be improved. The maximum zoom is somewhat limited, which might be a disadvantage for long-range shooters who need to identify distant targets. Manual Adjustments: I noticed that some adjustments still require manual calibration. While the automatic settings do cover most scenarios, having to manually adjust for specific situations can take time and can be a distraction when you’re trying to stay focused on your target. Conclusion: Overall, I would recommend the iRay Saim NV SCD 35 digital scope for anyone serious about night hunting or wildlife observation. Its high-quality imaging and advanced features make it a standout product. However, be prepared for its higher price tag and slightly heavier design. If you’re willing to invest, this scope will likely enhance your experience and performance in the field. #iRay #DigitalScope #NightVision
Post: 18 December 23:14
“Ever since I was a kid, an Alaskan moose hunt has been at the top of my list. And, this season, it was finally here. We were dropped deep into in the Brooks Range and quickly found ourselves chasing rutting bulls through the tundra swamps, tussocks, and ridge lines. After about a week and a handful of incredible encounters, we were hit with a days-long September snow storm. The sudden weather shift also called for a change in our tactics; we began to hunt bull moose more like a Midwest whitetail. Setting up along an obvious trail—that move proved to be the best decision we made on the entire trip. As we waited to fly the meat out, we glassed up a large grizzly—a bonus opportunity after an already successful hunt. We put a plan for a stalk in place and with luck still on our side, it all came together. There are no words to describe a hunt like this other than, once-in-a-lifetime.” - Mathews own’ Jeff Ozanne #MathewsLIFTX #mathews
Post: 16 December 09:21
PULSAR AKSION 30 Review The PULSAR AKSION 30 is an impressive device that has garnered attention in the outdoor and tactical gear communities. Having used it extensively, I’d like to share my thoughts on its features, pros, and cons. Pros: Exceptional Image Quality: One of the most striking features of the PULSAR AKSION 30 is its outstanding image clarity. The high-resolution display provides crisp visuals, making it easy to identify targets even in low-light conditions. Whether you’re out at dusk or in complete darkness, this device does not disappoint. User-Friendly Interface: The controls are intuitive and well-placed, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly. Even if you’re new to night vision or thermal imaging devices, you will find it easy to navigate through the settings and features. Durable Build: The robust design of the AKSION 30 ensures that it can withstand rough handling. The materials used are high quality, providing resistance against water and dust. It’s built to last, which is essential for outdoor enthusiasts. Versatility: This device is suitable for various applications such as wildlife observation, hunting, and surveillance. Its multifunctional nature means it’s not limited to just one use case, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear collection. Long Battery Life: The AKSION 30 is equipped with a battery that lasts several hours, even with continuous use. This is particularly beneficial for extended trips where charging may not be feasible. Cons: Weight: While the durability of the device is a plus, it does come with the downside of being slightly heavier than some competitors. For those who prioritize lightweight equipment, this may be a concern, especially during long hikes. Price Point: The PULSAR AKSION 30 is not the most budget-friendly option on the market. While the quality justifies the price to an extent, it may still be considered steep for beginners or those who are not yet sure about investing in such equipment. Learning Curve: Although the interface is user-friendly, the range of features and settings might take some time to fully master. Users who are not tech-savvy may require some practice and experimentation to get the most out of the device. Limited Connectivity Features: In today’s tech-savvy world, many consumers expect devices to come with modern connectivity options such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for easy sharing. The PULSAR AKSION 30 lacks these features, which might be a drawback for some users. Conclusion: Overall, the PULSAR AKSION 30 stands out as a high-quality device that delivers exceptional performance for outdoor applications. Its image quality, durability, and user-friendly interface make it an excellent choice for serious enthusiasts and professionals alike. However, potential buyers should weigh the cons—like its weight and price - against their specific needs and preferences . #PULSAR #AKSION30 #NightVision #ThermalImaging
Post: 14 December 02:01
LEGAT 335 ELECTROOPTIC Thermal Scope Review I recently purchased the LEGAT 335 thermal scope, and I would like to share my thoughts on this product. As an avid hunter and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve used several thermal scopes in the past, so I had certain expectations when I decided to invest in this one. ELECTROOPTIC Pros: Image Quality: One of the standout features of the LEGAT 335 is its exceptional image quality. The thermal detection range is impressive, allowing me to spot heat signatures clearly even in low-light conditions. The clarity is especially noticeable at longer distances, making it ideal for night hunts. User-Friendly Interface: The scope boasts a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. The controls are intuitive, making it simple to adjust settings on the fly without taking my eyes off the target. This is particularly beneficial when time is of the essence during hunting scenarios. Durability: The build quality of the LEGAT 335 is commendable. It feels robust and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. I've taken it through various weather conditions, and it has held up well without any signs of damage or loss of functionality. Battery Life: The battery life is another plus. I’ve been able to use it for several outings without needing to recharge, which is a significant advantage when spending extended time in remote areas. Versatility: This thermal scope can be used for various applications, from hunting to wildlife observation. Its adaptability makes it a great investment for anyone looking to get into thermal imaging. Cons: Price Point: The LEGAT 335 is on the higher end of the price spectrum for thermal scopes. While I believe the quality justifies the cost, it may not be within everyone's budget, especially for casual users. Weight: Compared to other thermal scopes, the LEGAT 335 can feel a bit heavier. While it's not excessively burdensome, it might be a consideration for those who prefer lighter gear for prolonged use. Limited Zoom Options: While the clarity at a distance is excellent, I found the zoom options somewhat limited. This may not be an issue for most users, but for those who require extensive zoom capabilities, it might be a drawback. Learning Curve for Features: Although the interface is user-friendly, some of the advanced features may take a bit of time to fully understand. New users may need to spend some time with the manual to get the most out of the scope. Conclusion: Overall, the LEGAT 335 thermal scope is a robust and versatile tool that delivers excellent performance for serious users. The image quality and durability make it a formidable option for nighttime adventures, though the price and weight may deter some buyers. If you’re looking for a reliable thermal scope and are prepared to invest, the LEGAT 335 is definitely worth considering. #LEGAT335 #ThermalScope #HuntingGear #OutdoorEquipment #NightVision #HuntingElectronics #ThermalImaging #ScopeReview #ShootingSports
Post: 12 December 17:22
iRay Mate MAL38 Thermal Scope Review As an avid outdoor enthusiast and hunter, I recently had the opportunity to test the iRay Mate MAL38 thermal scope, and I'd like to share my experience with this device, highlighting its advantages and disadvantages. Pros: Exceptional Imaging Quality: The thermal imaging is impressive, thanks to its 12-micron sensor with a resolution of 384x288. The clarity of the images is quite good, allowing me to spot heat signatures even at considerable distances. The device performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, which is when I typically do my hunting. High Sensitivity: The sensitivity of less than 30mK makes a significant difference in detecting subtle temperature variations. This feature has proven essential in differentiating animals from their surroundings, helping me to make informed decisions during hunts. User-Friendly Interface: The external control unit is designed to be intuitive, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly. This is particularly useful for hunters like myself who need to stay focused on their surroundings rather than fiddling with complex controls. Excellent Display Quality: The 1024x768 display provides sharp and vibrant visuals, enhancing the overall experience. The resolution is great for identifying details, which can be crucial when assessing whether a target is a game animal or something else. Lightweight and Compact Design: The size and weight of the iRay Mate MAL38 make it easy to carry and maneuver during long hours in the field. It does not add unnecessary bulk, which is a considerable advantage for active hunters. Cons: Price Point: While the iRay Mate MAL38 offers high-quality features, it comes with a premium price tag. For some potential buyers, especially those new to thermal optics, this investment might be daunting. Limited Battery Life: Depending on how frequently you use the device and the settings chosen, the battery life can be a bit limiting. During longer trips, I had to maintain a close eye on the battery level and occasionally route back to re-charge. Adjustment Period: Initially, there was a slight learning curve in understanding all the functions and features available. I found the manual somewhat overwhelming with the amount of information it contains, which could be off-putting for first-time users. Temperature Performance: While the performance in moderate weather conditions is exceptional, I did notice that the scope didn't perform as well in extreme cold. The image quality was slightly affected, which could be a concern for those hunting in colder climates. Limited Zoom Capability: While the initial field of view is excellent, I found the zoom options to be somewhat limited for my preferences. In certain situations, I would have liked to get a closer look at distant targets without losing visible detail. Overall, the iRay Mate MAL38 thermal scope is an outstanding piece of equipment that certainly has its strengths, particularly #iR
Post: 10 December 09:26
Pulsar Phantom 4x60 Scope Review I recently had the opportunity to test the Pulsar Phantom 4x60 scope during a series of night hunting trips. Below, I’ll share my detailed thoughts on the product, discussing both its strengths and weaknesses. Pros: Exceptional Clarity: One of the standout features of the Pulsar Phantom 4x60 is its outstanding optical clarity. The 60mm objective lens allows for a bright and sharp image, even in low-light conditions. This is crucial for nighttime hunting, where visibility can be a challenge. Robust Build Quality: This scope feels sturdy and well-built. It is designed to withstand tough conditions, including rain and heavy recoil. I appreciated the rugged design as it gave me confidence during field usage. Ease of Use: The controls are intuitive, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly. I found myself quickly getting accustomed to the various features, which is important when you’re trying to focus on your target. Versatile Magnification: The 4x magnification provides a good balance between field of view and targeting range. It is suitable for both close quarters and somewhat distant targets, making it versatile for different hunting environments. Impressive Battery Life: I was pleasantly surprised by the battery life of the scope. I was able to use it for extended periods without the need for constant recharging or battery replacement. Cons: Weight: One downside I encountered was the weight of the scope. It’s relatively heavier compared to some other models on the market. This may not be an issue for stationary hunting, but it can be cumbersome during long treks through the woods. Price Point: While the quality justifies the price to some extent, it is on the higher end compared to similar products. For novice hunters or those on a tighter budget, this may be a significant consideration. Limited Adjustment Range: Although the scope offers good clarity, I felt that its adjustment range could be improved. It took some trial and error to get it precisely dialed in for long-range shots, which could be frustrating for some users. Learning Curve: For those not familiar with digital scopes, there can be a learning curve. Features like night vision and digital zoom might require some time to master, which could deter beginners. Accessories and Mounting: While the scope itself is impressive, I found that some of the mounting options and additional accessories could be improved. Compatibility with various rifle types is sometimes hit or miss, so it's essential to check compatibility before purchase. Conclusion: Overall, the Pulsar Phantom 4x60 scope is an excellent option for serious hunters looking for quality night vision capabilities. Its clarity, build quality, and user-friendly design are significant advantages. However, potential buyers should consider the weight, price, and learning curve associated with its features.
Post: 4 December 22:50
Habitat: 🇹🇷 Turkey ❗️No one admires the beauty of animals as much as hunters! ❓Who else can see the life of our smaller brothers in their habitat, spy on their habits and habits, while remaining unnoticed? You won't see this in zoos. Of course, you really want to appropriate this beauty and grace. This is human nature. And you have to pay a price for it: fly, drive, climb, crawl and get it. There is no other way 💯 We have been hunting bezoar ibex in Turkey for 13 years! It seems impregnable in the video. But we know how to outline, choose and go all the way from start to finish. And return with a trophy. 🗓 The season is open until March, hurry up with your applications here ⤵️ 💬 write to Telegram (https://t.me/safari_stalker) 🌐 https://stalker-group.ru/turkey #hunting_in_Turkey #hunting_for_ibex
Post: 16 November 11:22
Honest Review of the InfiRay Geni35R Scope I recently had the opportunity to test the InfiRay Geni35R thermal scope, and I wanted to share my thoughts based on my experience with it. First of all, the build quality of the Geni35R is impressive. It feels sturdy and well-designed, which is essential for outdoor use. The weight is manageable, making it easy to handle during long hours in the field. One of the standout features of the Geni35R is its thermal imaging performance. The image clarity is excellent, even in low-light conditions, and the ability to detect heat signatures is quite impressive. I found that it performed well at various distances, allowing me to accurately identify targets even at longer ranges. The user interface is intuitive, which made it easy to adjust settings on the fly. The various reticle options and color palettes can be tailored to individual preferences, enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the battery life is commendable, lasting through extended outings without the need for a recharge. However, there were a few downsides to consider. The price point is on the higher side, which may not be suitable for everyone, especially for those who are new to thermal optics. Also, while the magnification capabilities are good, I felt that there could be some improvements in terms of zoom performance, particularly at extreme ranges. Overall, the InfiRay Geni35R is a solid thermal scope that delivers great performance and functionality. For serious hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who are willing to invest in quality equipment, it's definitely worth considering. Just be aware of its price and some limitations when it comes to extreme magnification. If you're looking for a reliable thermal scope, the Geni35R could be a great choice. #InfiRay #Geni35R #ThermalScope #Hunting #OutdoorGear #GearReview #ThermalImaging #ScopeReview #Optics #ImageClarity #HeatSignatures #UserExperience #BatteryLife #BuildQuality #LongRange #Magnification #HuntingEquipment #Technology #FieldTest #Reliability #OutdoorEnthusiasts #HighEndOptics #Review #ThermalOptics
Post: 30 October 00:10
Boar Hunting Morocco 2025: Souss Valley Terrain, Proven Methods & Gear Setup Wild boar hunting in Morocco’s Souss Valley offers a tactical mix of driven hunts, spot-and-stalk, and ambush setups across semi-arid scrub, orchards, and rolling hills. This region, located near Taroudant and Goulimine, is one of the most productive boar zones in the country, with consistent movement and minimal tourist pressure. --- 📍 Souss Valley Boar Hunting Terrain • Landscape: 50% plains, 30% hills, 20% rocky brush • Vegetation: Orange groves, dry scrub, olive orchards, and acacia thickets • Climate: October–December: 8°C to 19°C; January–March: 15°C to 22°C • Access: Fly into Agadir (AGA); hunting blocks are 2–3 hours inland via 4x4 --- 🎯 Proven Hunting Methods in Morocco 1. Driven Hunts (Battues) • Setup: 6–12 hunters positioned along firebreaks or natural funnels • Execution: Beaters and dogs push boars from dense cover • Shot Type: Fast, reactive shooting at 20–60 meters • Best Zones: Mamora Forest, Middle Atlas, Souss orchards 2. Spot & Stalk • Setup: Solo or paired tracking through scrub and orchards • Execution: Identify fresh tracks, feeding signs, and bedding areas • Shot Type: Controlled shots at 80–150 meters • Best Zones: Souss Valley foothills, Khemisset, Beni Mellal 3. Still Hunting / Ambush • Setup: Wait near feeding zones or water sources at dawn/dusk • Execution: Use trail cameras or guides to identify active runs • Shot Type: Precision shooting from blinds or natural cover • Best Zones: Taroudant groves, Middle Atlas valleys --- 🔫 Gear Setup for Boar Hunting Morocco 2025 Rifles • Recommended Calibers: .30-06, .308 Win, 7x64mm, .300 Win Mag • Optics:• Driven hunts: 1–4x or red dot • Stalk/ambush: 3–9x or 2.5–10x variable scopes • Ammo: Bonded soft-point or controlled expansion bullets (e.g., Nosler Partition, Hornady InterLock) Shotguns • Gauge: 12-gauge preferred • Ammo: Slugs only — Brenneke or sabot slugs for penetration • Choke: Cylinder or Improved Cylinder Clothing & Accessories • Brush-resistant pants and jackets • Waterproof boots with ankle support • Hydration pack, rangefinder, binoculars • Game vest, gloves, headlamp for early setups --- 💰 Pricing & Logistics • Daily Rates: €250–€500 per hunter/day • 4-Day Package: €3,375–€4,990 (includes guide, meals, lodging, transfers) • License Fee: ~€300 per season • Firearm Import Permit: Required; allow 30+ days for processing • Shotgun Rental: ~€50/day • Ammo: ~€25 per box of 10 slugs • Airport Transfers: Included from Agadir or Marrakech --- ❓ Key Questions to Ask Your Outfitter • Is the hunt conducted in fenced or open terrain? • Are dogs and beaters included in the package? • What’s the average shot distance in your territory? • Do you assist with firearm import permits? • Are meals and transfers included? • Is there a trophy fee or per-boar charge? --- 🧠 Tactical Tips for Souss Valley Hunts • Use trail cameras or scout with guides before the hunt • Practice shooting from standing and kneeling positions • Train cardio — battues involve walking and fast reaction • Confirm group size — driven hunts often require 6–10 hunters • Bring backup optics batteries and extra ammo — local supply is limited 📊 Field Facts: What Makes Souss Valley a Prime Boar Zone • Crop Damage Reports: Local farmers in Taroudant and Oulad Teima regularly report wild boar incursions into citrus and argan groves — a clear sign of active populations. • Water Access: Seasonal wadis and irrigation canals attract boars during dry months, concentrating movement near agricultural edges. • Low Hunting Pressure: Compared to the Rif and Mamora zones, Souss Valley sees fewer organized battues, making boars less wary and more predictable. • Elevation Advantage: Most hunting blocks sit between 300–800 meters, offering moderate terrain that’s accessible yet challenging. --- 🧭 Combining Methods for Maximum Success Experienced outfitters in Morocco often combine techniques for higher success rates: • Morning Ambush + Midday Stalk: Set up near feeding zones at dawn, then switch to tracking once movement slows. • Trail Camera Scouting: Outfitters deploy cameras weeks in advance to identify active runs and bedding zones. • Dog-Assisted Drives: In Souss scrubland, small teams of dogs flush boars from argan thickets toward shooters positioned along natural funnels. This hybrid approach increases shot opportunities and adapts to changing conditions — especially in unpredictable weather or post-rain movement spikes. --- 🏁 Final Takeaway: Why Hunt Boar in Morocco’s Souss Valley If you’re looking for: • Consistent boar movement in low-pressure terrain • Flexible hunting methods tailored to your style • Affordable packages with no trophy fees • Real field conditions — not fenced setups • Access to exclusive blocks with professional guides …then Souss Valley delivers. Morocco’s wild boar hunting isn’t about luxury—it’s about results. With the right outfitter, tuned gear, and tactical planning, you’ll get the shot, the tusks, and the hunt worth repeating.
Post: 29 October 16:43
Green envy 😏 ...can happen to anyone who doesn't have a Dagestan tour of this👇 size The tour trophy is 1️⃣0️⃣5️⃣ centimeters and 97 cm! Giants! You can say that we are not chasing records, that participation and adventure are important to us. Of course, nothing will happen without your participation. 💪 Get a Dagestan tour in a few days, emerging from the daily routine and changing the branded uniform of a city dweller to a membrane and gore-tex. Fly 🛫 to Dagestan. Chase records when they are achievable and real in every season! Our record holders of last week are Jorge and Javier. Get with us, our guides and our team. Stalker 🏹 is working! We are booking the 2025 season, but we will find a place for November 2024. Write ⤵️ 💬 write to Telegram (https://t.me/safari_stalker) 🌐 https://stalker-group.ru/russia #hunting_in_dagestan #dagestan_tour
Post: 16 October 09:32
🌿Wendigo🌿 This piece was a custom commission requested by a client. A wendigo is a mythical creature that lurks in the forest preying on victims to turn cannibalistic. I portrayed a softer version using a whitetail deer mount, whitetail deer skull, faux moss and foliage, faux Venus Fly traps, and real preserved Emperor Scorpions. My inspiration for this piece came from the movie “Annihilation”, images online of Wendigo art depictions, and the lovely artist Dark Fern Creations that creates similar pieces 🌿✨
Post: 17 May 09:36
Could vaccines for animals instead of humans help prevent the next COVID or monkeypox pandemics? How do we vaccinate wildlife? "There are many ways you can go about vaccinating wildlife" Scott Nuisner, a Professor of Biological Sciences and one of the authors of a study on the topic first published in Nature, Ecology & Evolution in 2020, told Euronews Next. "We already do this actually in North America and Europe to control rabies," he explained. "For instance, in North America, we vaccinate raccoons against rabies by dropping vaccines that are in edible baits across the landscape, out of planes or helicopters. And the raccoons eat it and they become vaccinated against rabies. And, of course, that protects us and our livestock and our pets". This solution has proven quite successful but Nuisner specified that, for it to work, you must have the right resources available - funds to fly helicopters around and pay for the baits - and a species that’s "long-lived". "Raccoons are short-lived from our perspective, but they're very long-lived relative to something like a rodent," Nuisner said.
Post: 11 August 08:42
PHEASANT (COMMON) A large, long-tailed game bird. Males have rich chestnut, golden-brown and black markings on body and tail, with a dark green head and red face wattling. Females are mottled with paler brown and black. They were introduced in France long ago and more recent introductions have brought in a variety of races and breeds for sport shooting. It flies fast and in a rolling countryside it is a very difficult bird to shoot. In some of our hunting estates there are also some Reeve’s pheasant. This boldly patterned pheasant is instantly recognizable, having some of the longest tail feathers of any bird species. The male has bright golden-chestnut upper parts, with black borders to each feather creating a strongly scaled appearance, while the upper breast is darker chestnut to black, and the lower breast and side feathers are white, tipped in black. The female is much more light is color with a short tail. The males when they fly make a very characteristic sound (like a small helicopter) and are very, very fast !
Post: 5 July 13:25
RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Larger than the grey partridge, it has a large white chin and throat patch, bordered with black. It has a greyish body with bold black flank stripes, and a chestnut-sided tail. It is originally native of the south of France (south of Loire River) but was introduced in all the country. Some of them fly high, others low but always fast. It is a very challenging bird.
Post: 4 July 21:59
🐟 Bighorn River, Montana Renowned for its beautiful scenery and trout abundance, the Bighorn River is regarded as one of the most beautiful fishing streams not just in Montana but the entire country. Though localized to the first 13 miles, the river offers fly fishing enthusiasts an opportunity to fish for the whole year. Yes, even including in the middle of winter. This stretch has a population of about 3000-5000 fish per mile, with a considerable portion of the fish being over fourteen inches. The river mostly harbors brown trout, but prized rainbows are also abundant. The best fishing period is during the summer between July and September, but anglers are present even during the cold, dead of winter.
Post: 30 May 21:50
By Frank Gentile, Hopewell, N.Y. It was October 2011, and I was back in my Chevy Tahoe on my way to another hunt. This time, instead of my son, I was traveling with my hunting buddies. My buddies and I had been on plenty of trips together before but never to Texas! Between the four of us and gear for six (two of our team opted to fly from New York to San Antonio), every single spare inch of space in the truck had been utilized. With each of us taking turns driving, we made it to Texas in about 20 hours. We got dinner and hotel rooms in Texarkana, and were back on the road early the next morning. With a day to spare before we were due at our hunting camp in Hondo, Texas, we headed south with plans to enjoy the city of San Antonio along the way. In San Antonio, we explored the Alamo, the River Walk and the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum. What a great city! Our first order of business after arriving at the camp the next morning was to make sure that our rifles were on target. With that complete, we were off to our first afternoon hunt. At this camp, there was one guide for every hunter, and your guide stayed out with you the entire time. The treestands were made of fiberglass and completely enclosed. This was exciting. It was also my first time hunting whitetails on active feeders. The feeders were located about 100 yards directly in front of my treestand, and I had about 150 yards to my left and right of clear shooting. When the feeders went off, they reminded me of the ringing of a dinner bell; I never in my life saw so many deer in front of me at one time! The guide was very clear in designating what I could and couldn’t shoot: I was paid up for a deer in the 130- to 140-class range. Despite my excitement over seeing all of those deer in one place, the right deer didn’t show. It was not the day for my shot. Dinner back at the camp was great, but breakfast came very early, so a good night’s sleep was my plan. I was back in the same stand the next morning. It was early and still pretty dark. I thought I had seen some movement but couldn’t see exactly what it was. As the day woke up, the feeder went off, and once again, deer were everywhere! I’ve still never seen so much horn in one place! About 150 yards to my right was a lonely buck. He was feeding and getting closer. As I picked up my binocular to get a closer look, my guide remarked, “Nice deer.” As I studied him, I noticed some movement on the ground, and to my surprise, feeding right next to the deer was a raccoon. The raccoon fed and moved closer to the buck, and at this point, I didn’t care about the feeder or the dozen or so deer to my left. I was completely focused on this odd duo. The deer kept cutting the distance, as did the raccoon, and was about 50 yards away—just as I was thinking what a nice trophy he would be—when the big let-down came from my guide: “I think he’s over 140.” My eyes still didn’t waver from those two animals. Now they were coming towards the treestand, stopping here and there to eat. Even my guide couldn’t get over how content these two animals were in each other’s presence. Knowing that this may not be the one for me due to his size, my eyes roamed over the remaining deer at the feeder. Two nice looking bucks were nearby, but were obviously out of my class—they were at least in the 200-inch range, too big for my wallet. I turned over to the guide, who had now taken a photo of the deer with his “rangefinder-camcorder-cell phone” to send to his foreman in hopes of getting the go-ahead for a shot. I couldn’t believe how detailed the rack looked on this 4-inch screen. I didn’t want to let this one get away, and I soon found out that I didn’t have to. My guide received the green light from his foreman, and tapped me on my shoulder to take the deer. By now, the deer had started to move farther away, about 140 yards, still feeding and walking. My heart was pounding, and once again doing double-time. I had the buck in my scope, and when he turned broadside to look at the raccoon I took the shot. He went down as if hit by a locomotive. It is amazing what a 150-grain bullet can do. Back at camp, it was measuring time. It turns out the guide was spot-on and was right to be cautious. The big 8-point buck measured 139⅝ inches.
Post: 22 November 14:38
Hunting with Hawks Perhaps you'll never try falconry yourself. Katherine Browne once thought the same thing. But these days, the Prois pro-staff coordinator and licensed falconer does her small-game hunting with a raptor named Hades Katherine Browne’s hunting partner, Hades, can be a little high strung and aggressive at times, but Browne overlooks it. Hades is pretty good at what he does, and that behavior is typical for his kind. A northern goshawk, Hades is a member of the raptor family, and his natural maneuverability and speed make him a top predator and excellent hunting companion. When Browne, the dealer relations and pro-staff coordinator for Prois Hunting Apparel, is not working, you can often find the licensed falconer training Hades to hunt ducks, pheasant, grouse and quail in the woods and fields by her home. How does a young woman, such as Browne, become a falconer? “I have always been intrigued by raptors, and I love the idea of being a part of something wild and ancient,” Browne says. “When I’m working with my birds, I feel like I’m a part of the drama of nature that unfolds daily. I love working in a symbiotic relationship with a bird of prey, and I love that once the bird is trained, it has a choice to leave me while it’s flying free.” After watching a TV show of two men hunting rabbits with red-tailed hawks, Browne decided “if they can do it, I can do it.” She devoured literature on the subject, and after moving to Oregon five years ago, found a sponsor, built a mews (hawk house) and took her test to become a falconer. After trapping and training her first red-tailed hawk, she became hopelessly addicted to falconry. “Being a licensed falconer is a huge commitment,” she says. “You must train with a sponsor, take a test and have knowledge of raptor disease, health issues and care. Falconry is more of a lifestyle than a hobby, especially for someone like me who hunts with her bird five to six times a week. Not only does the bird require feeding and care, but you must weigh it daily, calculate how much to feed it so it will be at hunting weight when you fly it and constantly monitor its health and condition. You must provide your bird with whole-bodied animals, a bath pan filled with fresh water, and safe housing and equipment. It is unfair to try to keep a bird of prey if you don’t have the time to commit.” TRAPPING THE BIRD To trap her raptors, Browne often uses what is called a bal-chatri trap (BC), which is essentially a weighted-down wire cage with monofilament fishing line nooses along the outside. The bait animal is placed inside the trap. When the hawk lands on the trap, its feet become entangled in the nooses. Browne drives the roads in search of a raptor to trap. When she spots a bird, she slows the vehicle down almost to a stop and drops the trap in the bird’s vicinity. Then she drives a couple hundred yards down the road and sits and watches the bird and the trap with binoculars. BC traps need to be monitored constantly because after the bird is trapped, it can be injured or attacked by predators if left unattended. In fact, it is illegal to leave a BC unattended (it’s also highly illegal to trap birds of prey without the proper permit). “Once the bird is snared, I run up and grab the hawk, preferably without getting footed or bitten,” Browne says. “Trapping is by far one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done.” Browne says once you trap a bird, you must determine if it’s a legal bird to keep and if you want to keep it. Passage (juvenile) birds that have left the nest but are still in their first year of life are legal to take. You can also take eyasses (chicks) after you become a general falconer. You’re limited to either trapping a juvenile red-tailed hawk or an American kestrel for the first two years of your falconry training. Check your state's falconry laws for additional rules and regulations. “I am currently a general falconer, which requires at least two years of falconry experience,” Browne says. “My northern goshawk is a much more challenging species to train than a red-tailed hawk or kestrel.” The longer you are a falconer, the more species are open to you. The most challenging birds are reserved for master falconers who have been at the sport for at least five years. TRAINING THE BIRD Not only is each species different in terms of training, but so is each individual bird. And, even though there are many methods and schools of thought on training, she uses a few basic steps with the birds she’s trained. “Perhaps the most important part of this process is weighing the bird daily on an accurate scale,” Browne says. “Falconry is all about weight management and figuring out the flying weight, which is the weight at which the bird is most responsive.” Unless the bird is very thin when trapped, most falconers begin reducing their bird’s weight slowly and steadily during the training process and recording the bird’s responses in a log book along with the amount and type of food it’s eating. When the falconer first arrives home with the bird, he or she begins a process called “manning.” During this time, the bird gets used to being indoors with the trainer. The trainer touches and carries the hawk around as much as possible. “When I brought Ares, my last red-tail, home and removed the hood, he sat on my fist with his eyes wide, wings spread, feathers puffed out and his tongue sticking out,” Browne says. “He was terrified. This is pretty typical behavior for a freshly trapped hawk. Initially you want the room to be dimly lit and for things to be quiet and calm. After sitting for a moment, Ares bated (jumped from the fist) and hung upside-down by his jesses (the leather straps around a falconry bird’s feet). I call this stage the bat-bird stage. My red-tail Athena hung upside-down most of the time I worked with her for the first three days. Luckily, Ares caught on faster, and after gently helping him back on the glove a few times, he stopped hanging like a bat and started hopping back up to the fist on his own.” Browne explains that the next step is getting the hawk to eat from her hands, which can be a difficult task. She’ll rub the meat on the side of a raptor’s beak causing it to bite reflexively. When hunger takes over, the bird will swallow the meat. Every time Browne offers her new bird a piece of meat, she whistles. By making the same noise each time, the bird will start to recognize the sound as an indicator for food. Like training any animal, consistency is incredibly important. After the bird learns to eat from the trainer’s fingers, it is then trained to eat from a gloved hand. Next the bird learns how to hop to the glove, which is Browne’s favorite step. “This is the leap of faith where your bird makes the jump to your fist,” Browne says. “I place the bird on a solid perch (I favor a saw horse) and hold my garnished glove (glove with a piece of meat on it) just out of reach so the hawk has to stretch out to get it.” Next the bird learns how to fly to the trainer inside the home. Browne says this step is a lot of fun as well. She uses a long leash and calls the bird to her for longer and longer indoor flights. Once she accomplishes this step, she takes the bird outdoors. “When I first take my bird outside after working with it indoors, it’ll often get what I call ‘blue sky syndrome’,” Browne says. It’ll see the sky and will try to fly off. At this stage I often have to reduce its weight and do some shorter flights than I was doing indoors. I’ll also introduce the lure, which is my safety net while flying the bird. I attach meat to a padded leather boomerang-shaped lure. Every time I feed the bird from the lure it should get a good meal so when it sees the lure, it will come readily, even if its weight is a little high.” Browne explains that as she flies the bird outside, she increases the length of the creance (a long tether), and as she reduces the bird’s weight, she watches for an immediate response to her whistle. A quick response is a good indicator that the bird is approaching its flying or hunting weight. Once it comes without hesitation, it’s time to cut it loose and start hunting. THE HUNTING Since juvenile birds have already been out on their own, they know how to hunt, but Browne says she has to teach the bird that it will have more opportunities at game and more success if it hunts with her. “I train my bird to see me as a partner, not a predator,” Browne says. “I have to be very careful not to give the impression that I will steal food from it. I have to develop a relationship with my bird so that I can approach it on prey and dispatch the prey without it carrying it away, hiding it from me or showing aggression toward me.” Browne says falconers often have to train their birds to pursue the quarry of their choice and build their confidence that they can be successful catching this particular animal. Many juvenile birds have only caught mice and small ground quarry and do not necessarily see larger game as food. Trainers often set up a couple easier hunting scenarios to build the bird’s confidence at catching larger prey, such as rabbits. This is called “entering your bird.” “There is so much work and dedication involved with training a falcon,” Browne says. “That’s why it is so important that you go through the proper channels to become a falconer. It’s hard work, but if you are passionate and committed, it’s more than worthwhile. During the first two years, beginner falconers are required to have a more experienced falconer as a sponsor. The knowledge you gain from your sponsor in your first two years (or more) as an apprentice falconer is irreplaceable. If you’re interested in pursuing this sport, start off by reading one of the many books on training and hunting with different birds of prey. My favorite is North American Falconry & Hunting Hawks by BeeBe and Webster, which many, including myself, consider the bible of North American falconry. Take the time and do it right. You won’t regret the effort and time you put into being a falconer. We get to see things that most people will never see in a lifetime. ”
Post: 27 July 18:13
Falconry Training: Techniques and Methods for Training Raptors Falconry, the ancient art of hunting with birds of prey, demands a unique blend of patience, precision, and deep respect for the raptor. Training these apex predators is not a casual endeavor—it’s a disciplined craft rooted in centuries of tradition and refined through modern understanding of avian behavior. This article offers a comprehensive guide to falconry training, focusing exclusively on the techniques and methods used to train raptors, with practical insights for serious hunters and aspiring falconers. --- Understanding the Raptor: Species and Behavior Before training begins, it’s essential to understand the species of raptor being handled. Falcons (longwings), hawks (shortwings), and eagles each have distinct temperaments and hunting styles. For example: • Peregrine Falcons are high-speed aerial hunters, ideal for open terrain. • Red-tailed Hawks are versatile and commonly used in North American falconry. • Goshawks are powerful but notoriously temperamental, requiring experienced handlers. Each species responds differently to stimuli, and training must be tailored accordingly. Raptors are not domesticated animals—they remain wild at heart. The goal of falconry training is not to tame but to build a working partnership based on trust and mutual benefit. --- ⛓️💥 Essential Equipment for Training Proper gear is critical for safety and control during training. Key items include: • Hood: Keeps the bird calm during transport and early training phases. • Jesses: Leather straps attached to the bird’s legs for handling. • Creance: A long training line used during flight exercises. • Glove: Protects the falconer’s hand and provides a perch. • Lure: Simulates prey and is used to condition flight and recall. • Telemetry: Radio tracking devices to locate birds during free flight. Each piece of equipment must be fitted correctly and maintained meticulously. Ill-fitting gear can cause injury or rejection by the bird, derailing the training process. --- 🧠 Phase 1: Manning – Building Trust Manning is the foundational stage of falconry training. It involves acclimating the raptor to human presence and handling. This phase can take days or weeks depending on the bird’s temperament. Techniques include: • Frequent Handling: Holding the bird on the glove for extended periods. • Voice Conditioning: Speaking softly to familiarize the bird with the falconer’s tone. • Food Association: Offering food by hand to build positive reinforcement. • Environmental Exposure: Gradually introducing the bird to new sights, sounds, and movements. The goal is to reduce fear and stress, allowing the bird to remain calm and alert in the falconer’s presence. Manning is not rushed; a poorly manned bird will be unreliable and potentially dangerous in the field. --- 🏋️ Phase 2: Weight Management and Conditioning Raptors are trained at their optimal flying weight—known as “flying weight”—which ensures responsiveness without compromising health. This requires daily weighing and precise control of food intake. • Weight Charting: Tracking weight fluctuations to determine ideal performance range. • Diet Control: Feeding lean meats like quail or pigeon in measured portions. • Flight Conditioning: Encouraging short flights to build stamina and muscle tone. A bird that is too heavy may refuse to fly; too light, and it risks exhaustion or injury. Conditioning is a delicate balance that must be monitored rigorously. --- 🪶 Phase 3: Creance Training – Controlled Flight Once the bird is manned and conditioned, creance training begins. This involves tethered flight using a long line (creance) to teach recall and directional control. Key methods: • Short Flights to the Glove: Reinforcing return behavior with food rewards. • Lure Training: Swinging a lure to simulate prey and encourage pursuit. • Distance Extension: Gradually increasing flight distance to build confidence. Creance training is where the bird begins to associate the falconer with successful hunting. Positive reinforcement is critical—punishment or frustration will damage trust. --- 🐦 Phase 4: Free Flight and Hunting Preparation Once reliable recall is established, the bird is allowed to fly free. This is the most critical phase, where the falconer must trust the bird’s instincts and training. • Telemetry Use: Ensures the bird can be tracked if it flies out of range. • Live Prey Introduction: Gradual exposure to live quarry under controlled conditions. • Field Training: Practicing in varied terrain to simulate real hunting scenarios. Free flight is not a test—it’s a demonstration of the bond between falconer and raptor. The bird must be confident, responsive, and physically prepared to hunt. --- 🧼 Daily Care and Maintenance Training is only part of falconry. Daily care ensures the bird remains healthy and responsive. • Clean Mews: The bird’s housing must be secure, sanitary, and spacious. • Bathing Opportunities: Raptors often bathe to maintain feather condition. • Health Checks: Monitoring for signs of illness, parasites, or injury. • Molting Management: Adjusting training during feather replacement periods. A neglected bird will not perform. Falconry demands daily commitment, even outside the hunting season. --- 🧭 Advanced Techniques and Innovations Modern falconers are integrating technology to enhance training: • Drone Training: Simulates aerial prey and improves flight conditioning B. • High-Speed Lures: Used to build speed and agility. • Behavioral Science: Applying operant conditioning and cognitive enrichment. These innovations complement traditional methods, not replace them. The essence of falconry remains the same: a partnership built on trust, skill, and respect. --- 🏹 Conclusion Falconry training is a demanding but deeply rewarding pursuit. It requires more than technical skill—it demands empathy, observation, and unwavering dedication.
Post: 23 August 21:42
Hunting in NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO: Discover the Types of Hunting and Animals Hunted in the Region, Laws and Clubs Northwestern Ontario, a sprawling and untamed region of Canada, is a hunter’s paradise. With its vast forests, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, this area offers some of the best hunting opportunities in North America. Whether you're after trophy whitetail deer, elusive black bears, or migratory birds, Northwestern Ontario has something for every avid outdoorsman. Geographical and Natural Features of the Region from the Point of View of Hunting Northwestern Ontario spans three districts—Kenora, Rainy River, and Thunder Bay—and boasts diverse ecosystems that support rich biodiversity. The landscape ranges from dense boreal forests to expansive wetlands, creating ideal habitats for various game species. Large grass openings, cut-over areas, and agricultural fields provide excellent cover and food sources for deer and other big game animals . Meanwhile, the countless untouched lakes scattered throughout the region offer unique fly-in hunting experiences, where remoteness ensures minimal human interference and maximum wildlife encounters. Hunters and Demographics of the Region While exact numbers fluctuate annually, thousands of hunters flock to Northwestern Ontario each year. Many are locals who have grown up with hunting traditions deeply embedded in their culture. However, the region also attracts international hunters, particularly Americans seeking world-class trophies. Non-resident hunters often rely on local outfitters and lodges, which serve as hubs for guided hunts. These visitors not only contribute to the local economy but also help sustain conservation efforts through licensing fees. Hunting Characteristics The hunting experience in Northwestern Ontario is defined by its raw wilderness and challenging conditions. Hunters here need to be prepared for rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and long days spent tracking game. Patience and skill are essential, as many species in the region are known for being elusive. For example, black bears require stealth and knowledge of their feeding patterns, while whitetail deer demand sharp eyesight and quick reflexes. Types of Hunting in the Region Northwestern Ontario offers a wide variety of hunting opportunities: Big Game : Whitetail deer and black bears are the most sought-after species. Moose hunting is also available but typically requires booking through licensed tourist outfitters. Small Game : Grouse, rabbits, and squirrels provide exciting challenges for those looking for smaller prey. Waterfowl : Duck and goose hunting thrive along the Lake of the Woods and other water bodies, thanks to the abundance of migratory birds. Migratory Birds : The open season for migratory game birds runs from September 25 to December 20, offering ample time for bird enthusiasts to test their skills. Hunting Seasons in the Region Hunting seasons in Northwestern Ontario vary depending on the species: Whitetail Deer : Typically runs from early November to mid-December. Black Bear : Spring and fall seasons are common, though specific dates depend on the zone. Moose : Limited quotas and strict regulations mean non-residents must plan well in advance. Waterfowl : Aligns with the migratory bird season mentioned above. Associations and Clubs of Hunters in the Region Several organizations promote ethical hunting practices and advocate for sustainable wildlife management in Northwestern Ontario. While there isn’t a single dominant association, local lodges and outfitters often collaborate with provincial groups like the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH). These partnerships ensure that both residents and visitors adhere to responsible hunting standards. Legislation of Hunting in the Region Hunting laws in Northwestern Ontario are stringent to protect its fragile ecosystems. Non-residents must secure appropriate licenses and tags, often requiring them to stay at registered tourist outfitter lodges during moose or bear hunts. Additionally, all hunters must comply with bag limits, weapon restrictions, and designated zones. Migratory bird hunters should familiarize themselves with federal guidelines outlined by Environment and Climate Change Canada. Traditions of the Region from the Point of View of Hunting Hunting in Northwestern Ontario is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life steeped in tradition. Indigenous communities have hunted these lands for centuries, using sustainable methods passed down through generations. Modern hunters continue to respect these age-old practices, emphasizing conservation and stewardship. Annual events, such as community barbecues and storytelling nights at lodges, celebrate the camaraderie and shared passion among hunters. Interesting Facts About Hunting in the Region Northwestern Ontario is home to some of the largest whitetail bucks in Canada, drawing trophy hunters from around the globe. Black bear populations in the region are thriving, making it one of the top destinations for bear hunting in North America. Fly-in outposts allow hunters to access remote areas inaccessible by road, ensuring an authentic backcountry experience. The Lake of the Woods, a key location for waterfowl hunting, spans over 65,000 square kilometers and contains more than 14,000 islands. For hunters seeking adventure, solitude, and unparalleled opportunities, Northwestern Ontario stands out as a premier destination. Its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and deep-rooted hunting traditions create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re chasing a once-in-a-lifetime trophy or simply enjoying the thrill of the chase, this Canadian gem promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip today and discover why so many hunters call Northwestern Ontario their ultimate hunting haven.
Post: 9 June 06:35
Goose Hunting in Belarus 2025: Full Guide to Seasons, Methods, Permits, and Prices Belarus offers one of Eastern Europe’s most underrated goose hunting experiences. With vast wetlands, agricultural fields, and migratory flyways, the country attracts thousands of geese each season. The primary species hunted are Greylag Geese, White-fronted Geese, and Bean Geese — all wary, intelligent birds that demand skill and preparation. This guide covers everything serious hunters need to know: migration timing, hunting methods, legal requirements, best regions, and costs. --- Goose Species in Belarus • Greylag Goose (Anser anser): Largest and most common; highly vocal and cautious. • White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons): Smaller, fast flyers; often mixed in flocks. • Bean Goose (Anser fabalis): Less predictable; prefers remote wetlands. These species migrate through Belarus in large numbers, offering excellent opportunities for both field and water hunts. --- Migration Timing and Hunting Seasons Spring Migration • Dates: March 14 – May 10 • Behavior: Geese move north to breeding grounds. Short, intense window. • Best Conditions: Cold fronts and snowmelt trigger movement. Autumn Migration • Dates: September – December • Peak: October to mid-November • Behavior: Birds head south; longer season with more consistent action. • Best Conditions: Sudden cold snaps in Russia and the Baltics push birds into Belarus. --- Legal Hunting Season (2025) • Spring Goose Season: March 14 to May 10 • Autumn Goose Season: September 1 to December 12 • Hunting Hours: Daylight only • Allowed Methods: Ambush, decoying, pass shooting, water setups • Dogs: Allowed for retrieval and tracking --- Hunting Methods 1. Field Hunting with Decoys • Scout harvested fields with fresh droppings and feathers. • Use realistic full-body decoys (shells or silhouettes). • Layout blinds or natural cover are essential. • Goose calls should be used sparingly — Belarusian geese are call-shy. 2. Pass Shooting • Position along known flight paths: river corridors, lake edges, or between feeding and roosting zones. • Requires tight chokes (Modified or Full) and high-velocity loads. • Lead calculation is critical — birds often fly 40–60 km/h. 3. Water Hunting • Set decoys on lakes, ponds, or flooded fields. • Use shoreline vegetation or layout blinds for concealment. • Best during midday when geese rest on water. --- Best Regions for Goose Hunting Southern Belarus • Brest Region: Early migration hotspot; large flocks in open fields. • Gomel Region: Wetlands and river systems ideal for water setups. Central Belarus • Minsk & Mogilev Regions: Mid-season action; mix of agriculture and forest edges. Northern Belarus • Braslav Lakes National Park: 74 lakes and marshes; high waterfowl density. • Narach Lake Area: Consistent goose traffic and excellent infrastructure. Protected Zones • Hunting is prohibited inside reserves like Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve, but allowed in surrounding buffer zones. --- Permits and Regulations Foreign hunters must obtain: • Temporary Hunting License (issued by Belarusian hunting clubs) • Goose Hunting Permit (species-specific) • Firearm Import Permit (or rent locally) • CITES Certificate (for exporting trophies, if applicable) • Travel Insurance (mandatory) Required documents: • Valid hunting license from your home country • Firearm ownership proof (if importing) • Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond departure --- Equipment Recommendations • Shotguns: 12-gauge with 3” chambers; semi-auto preferred • Ammo: Steel or bismuth shot; to for geese • Chokes: Modified or Full for pass shooting; Improved Cylinder for decoying • Optics: Binoculars for scouting; rangefinder optional • Clothing: Waterproof, insulated, and camouflaged for local terrain • Calls: Greylag and White-fronted goose calls; use sparingly --- Prices and Packages (2025) Typical costs for foreign hunters: • Day Hunt (with guide): €90–€120 • 3-Day Package: €300–€400 • Accommodation & Meals: €66/day • Professional Guide: €50/day • Firearm Rental: €40/day • Ammo: €10–€15 per box • Goose Trophy Fee: €17 per bird • Document Preparation: €45 • Airport Transfer: €90 • Translation Services: €45/day Most hunting clubs offer full-service packages including transport, meals, permits, and trophy handling. --- Trophy and Utilization • Meat: Goose breast is excellent for roasting, stews, or sausage. Fat is prized for cooking. • Feathers: Used for fly tying, bedding, or crafts. • Photos: Trophy shots are common; respect local customs. • Export: No restrictions on meat or feathers for personal use. CITES required for taxidermy. --- Final Thoughts Goose hunting in Belarus is raw, rewarding, and affordable. With long seasons, diverse terrain, and abundant birds, it’s a serious destination for waterfowl hunters. Whether you prefer decoying in frosty fields or pass shooting over lakes, Belarus delivers. Just bring your gear, get your permits, and be ready to adapt — these birds don’t give second chances. 🦆 Goose Hunting in Belarus 2025: Quick FAQ What species of geese can I hunt in Belarus? Greylag Geese, White-fronted Geese, and Bean Geese. When is the hunting season? • Spring: March 14 – May 10 • Autumn: September 1 – December 12 Where are the best regions to hunt? • Southern Belarus: Brest & Gomel regions • Central Belarus: Minsk & Mogilev regions • Northern Belarus: Braslav Lakes & Narach area What hunting methods are allowed? • Field hunting with decoys • Pass shooting • Water setups • Hunting with dogs (retrieval only) Do I need a permit? Yes. Foreign hunters need: • Temporary hunting license • Goose hunting permit • Firearm import permit (or rent locally) What gear should I bring? 12-gauge shotgun, steel/bismuth shot (–), camo clothing, binoculars, and goose calls. How much does it cost? • Day hunt: €90–€120 • 3-day package: €300–€400 • Trophy fee: €17 per goose
Post: 9 March 14:40
Best Aoudad Hunting in Morocco 2025: Atlas Mountains, Rifle Setup, Tags, Terrain & FAQ Aoudad hunting in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains is a serious mountain hunt — not a casual safari. With steep ridges, unpredictable weather, and limited permits, this is a high-stakes pursuit for experienced hunters. This guide breaks down the terrain, tactics, gear, and legal framework for 2025, plus answers 25 real questions hunters ask before booking. --- 🎯 Spot-and-Stalk Tactics for Aoudad Hunting • Glassing First Light: Use high-quality binoculars and spotting scopes from elevated vantage points at dawn. Aoudad are crepuscular — they move early and late. • Wind Discipline: Always stalk from downwind. Aoudad have sharp senses and will bolt at the first scent. • Elevation Strategy: Start low and climb. Rams often bed high and descend to feed. • Terrain Reading: Look for saddles, benches, and rocky outcrops. Aoudad favor broken terrain with escape routes. • Shot Setup: Expect 200–400 yard shots. Use shooting sticks or a bipod. Practice kneeling and prone positions. --- 📍 Terrain & Climate: High Atlas Mountains • Elevation: 1,500–3,000 meters (4,900–9,800 ft) • Climate:• September–October: Hot, sheep stay high • November–February: Snow pushes sheep lower • March: Variable, with melting snow and increased movement • Access: Fly into Marrakech or Oujda; 2–4 hour drive to hunting blocks • Terrain Type: Steep ridges, scree slopes, seasonal streams, and rocky plateaus --- 📋 Legal Framework & Conservation Rules • Season Dates: September 15 – March 31 • Permit Limit: ~10–15 international tags per season • Legal Requirements:• Moroccan hunting license • Species-specific tag • Firearm import permit • Conservation Zones: Only mature males (7+ years) may be hunted. No hunting in permanent reserves. • Outfitter Requirement: Foreign hunters must book through licensed operators. --- 🎒 Gear & Rifle Setup • Rifle Calibers: .270 Win, 7mm Rem Mag, .30-06, .300 Win Mag • Optics: 3–9x or 4–12x scope; rangefinder mandatory • Ammo: Bonded soft-point or controlled expansion bullets • Clothing: Merino base layers, windproof mid-layer, insulated jacket, rain shell • Boots: High-ankle mountain boots with aggressive tread • Pack: 40–60L with hydration system, game bags, knife, headlamp • Extras: Spotting scope, tripod, satellite phone, power bank, sleeping bag rated to –5°C --- ❓ Aoudad Hunting Morocco FAQ – 25 Real Questions 1. When is the aoudad hunting season in Morocco? September 15 to March 31. 2. Where is the best region to hunt aoudad in Morocco? High Atlas Mountains near Azilal, Beni Mellal, and Tafoughalt. 3. How many permits are issued per season? Around 10–15 for international hunters. 4. What’s the average horn length of mature rams? 30–34 inches. 5. What’s the typical shot distance? 200–400 yards. 6. Can I bring my own rifle? Yes, with a firearm import permit. 7. What calibers are recommended? .270, .30-06, 7mm Rem Mag, .300 Win Mag. 8. Are optics provided by outfitters? Usually not — bring your own. 9. What’s the terrain like? Steep, rocky, high-altitude with variable weather. 10. Is this a fair-chase hunt? Yes, all hunts are free-range and foot-based. 11. Are trophy fees included in packages? Most outfitters include them; confirm before booking. 12. What’s the physical difficulty level? High — expect 5–10 km of hiking per day. 13. Are non-hunters allowed? Yes, typically €375/day. 14. Can I combine aoudad with other species? Yes — Barbary boar and partridge are common add-ons. 15. What’s the cost of a 5-day hunt? $29,500–$39,500 USD. 16. Are meals and lodging included? Yes, in most packages. 17. What’s the success rate? High with experienced guides and proper gear. 18. Is aoudad meat consumed locally? Yes, often shared with guides and communities. 19. Can I export the horns? Yes, with CITES paperwork and veterinary clearance. 20. Is travel insurance required? Yes, and it must cover hunting and evacuation. 21. What’s the best time to hunt during the season? November to February — cooler weather, better movement. 22. Are there altitude sickness risks? Possible above 2,500 meters — acclimatize slowly. 23. What’s the best airport to fly into? Marrakech (RAK) or Oujda (OUD). 24. Are there mobile signals in the hunting area? Rare — bring a satellite phone. 25. How far in advance should I book? 6–12 months ahead due to limited permits. --- 🏁 Final Takeaway: Why Hunt Aoudad in Morocco? Morocco offers: • True mountain hunting in wild terrain • Limited tags and low hunting pressure • Trophy-quality rams with 30+ inch horns • Experienced guides and full-service logistics • Cultural immersion and conservation impact This is not a casual hunt — it’s a serious expedition. With proper gear, fitness, and planning, Morocco delivers one of the most authentic aoudad hunts on the planet.
Post: 1 November 09:33
Barbary Sheep Hunting in Morocco 2025: Season, Gear, Locations & Costs Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains offer one of the most demanding mountain hunts in North Africa: the pursuit of Barbary Sheep (Ammotragus lervia), also known as Aoudad. With limited permits and rugged terrain, this hunt is built for experienced marksmen seeking a true challenge. --- 📍 Species Overview: What You’re Hunting Barbary Sheep are native to North Africa and thrive in rocky, high-altitude terrain. Mature rams weigh up to 300 lbs and feature long throat hair (“chaps”) and thick, curved horns. Only select males aged 7+ are legally huntable under Moroccan regulations. --- 📅 Hunting Season & Permits • Season: Mid-September to late March • Peak Months: October to December Required Documents: • Valid passport (6+ months) • Moroccan hunting license • Firearm import permit (or use outfitter’s rifle) • Travel insurance covering hunting activities Only 10 permits are issued per season for trophy rams. Book early — they sell out fast A. --- 🧭 Prime Hunting Zones • High Atlas Mountains: Near Beni-Mellal, Azilal, and Ouarzazate • Terrain: Steep ridges, rocky plateaus, elevations up to 4,000 meters • Access: Fly into Marrakech (RAK) or Ouarzazate (OZZ); outfitters provide 4x4 transport --- 🔫 Hunting Method & Gear Setup Spot & Stalk is the standard approach. Expect full-day hikes, glassing from ridgelines, and long-range shooting. • Rifle: Bolt-action, flat-shooting caliber (.270 Win, 7mm Rem Mag, .30-06, .300 Win Mag) • Scope: 3–9x or higher, with clear glass and reliable zero • Ammo: Premium controlled-expansion bullets • Binoculars: 10x42 or 10x50 for scanning terrain • Rangefinder: Laser unit for accurate distance readings • Boots: High-ankle, mountain-grade • Clothing: Layered system for cold mornings and hot afternoons • Pack: 30–40L with hydration system, snacks, gloves, knife --- 💰 Hunt Cost Breakdown (2025) Expect to pay between $5,000–$10,000 USD for a guided Barbary Sheep hunt. Packages typically include: • Professional guide • 5–7 days of hunting • Lodging and meals • In-country transport • Trophy field prep • License and permit assistance • Trophy fee (may be separate) --- 🦴 Trophy Handling & Export • Field Prep: Your outfitter will cape and salt the hide, clean the skull/horns • Taxidermy: Optional in Morocco — quality varies • Export: Most hunters ship trophies home. Expect 3–6 months for paperwork and CITES clearance --- 🧠 Tactical Tips • Train for elevation: cardio + weighted hikes • Practice shooting from prone, kneeling, and offhand • Use satellite maps to study terrain before arrival • Book early — permits are limited and demand is high • Choose an outfitter with proven access to active sheep zones 🧭 Travel & Entry Logistics • Airports: Most hunters fly into Marrakech (RAK) or Casablanca (CMN). For High Atlas access, Ouarzazate (OZZ) is ideal. • Firearm Transport: If bringing your own rifle, secure a Moroccan firearm permit in advance. Most outfitters offer rental rifles with optics. • Customs: Declare all hunting gear. Ammunition must be packed separately and within legal limits. • Language: Arabic and French are official. Most outfitters speak English or provide translation. --- 🏁 Final Notes for Serious Hunters Barbary sheep hunting in Morocco is not a casual outing — it’s a high-altitude, gear-intensive, physically demanding pursuit. You’ll be glassing for hours, hiking steep ridges, and taking long-range shots in unpredictable conditions. But the payoff is real: a massive, mature ram with sweeping horns and a trophy few hunters ever claim. If you’re looking for: • A true mountain hunt with minimal pressure • A rare trophy species in wild terrain • A guided experience with logistical support • A hunt that tests your endurance and marksmanship …then Morocco delivers.
Post: 24 October 14:25
5 Snow Goose Stops You’ve Never Tried Chasing spring snow geese is one of the fastest growing pursuits in hunting, and with good reason. The most obvious of its attractions are the tens of millions of birds that string out from Texas to the Canadian tundra and from the coast of California to the Eastern Shore. But as the spring migration has ballooned, so has the hunting competition. Meanwhile, it takes plenty of gear and cash to get into the game: e-callers, massive decoy rigs, pallets of ammunition and gasoline for finding fresh birds for the next day’s flight. You might wonder why we go to the trouble. But if you spend one day under twisting white flocks with 10 shotgun shells in an extension magazine before you run it to the plug again and again, you’ll understand. Arkansas, Missouri and South Dakota are the hotbeds for chasing the reverse migration, but a few places are still devoid of big crowds, no matter if you’re a do-it-yourself or pay-to-play hunter. Southern Illinois Sean Herrick’s passion for white geese runs deep. He was one of the first outfitters to plant roots near Carlyle Lake, which can host up to 1 million snows during the height of the migration. He bought a couple old shipping containers and sank them into the ground, fabricating slick roll-cages to hide peeping hunters from white birds. It’s one of the most comfortable hunts you can have for snows (much better than lying in the Arkansas mud), and Herrick is far removed from freelancers. “We are away from the ring of fire, where birds fly over spread after spread,” Herrick says. “By the time they get to us, they think they are safe.” He has dug up and re-sunk pits multiple times to get on the best flight lines, and if the hatch was good and the weather is right, you will kill juvies all day. Plus, he runs permanent spreads, so there’s no decoy pickup after grinding all day. My friends and I had a banger couple of days with Herrick’s outfit a few years ago in February with the sun shining and a south wind blowing. The action was constant by snow goose standards (a few flocks every hour), and our numbers were in the 70s and 80s each day. That kind of success depends on myriad factors, but if the birds are flying, it’s a good bet Herrick will get plenty in killing range. North Dakota Scott Butz, the creator of Reel Wings, is so white-bird-obsessed that he keeps in contact with Canadian biologists about the hatch every spring and summer so he knows what to expect come fall and spring. Butz chases snows from Saskatchewan to Arkansas and back north in spring. North Dakota can be phenomenal, he says, but has seen tough times the past few years. “If there’s no snow line, they just blow through here in 7 to 10 days, right on into Canada,” Butz says. “You used to see snows here into early April. Now it’s pretty much over by the end of February.” You might wonder why we go to the trouble. But if you spend one day under twisting white flocks with 10 shotgun shells in an extension magazine before you run it to the plug again and again, you’ll understand. Snows can be found from Valley City to Bismarck, but success in North Dakota requires different tactics. Butz doesn’t run Vortex machines and complements his e-caller – if he’s using one – with a mouth call. “In every flock, there’s a dominant bird, and that’s why I use a mouth call,” he says. “Snow geese hear so well and pick up on different frequencies. Using that mouth call gets them in tight. I’m talking 15 to 20 yards.” Access in North Dakota is fantastic. If a field isn’t posted, you have permission to hunt. But that can work against you, too, and that’s why Butz always calls the landowner, because you might arrive the next morning to find the farmer working the field. Also, with easy access comes competition. If there’s a big feed, you can bet multiple hunters or outfitters want that spot. Butz suggested working with other hunters if they are scouting the same piece of real estate. “If someone else shows up, they can join us,” Butz says. “What’s the point of having two spreads in the same field and blowing the whole deal for everyone?” If you can’t play nice with others, find a field between the feed and the roost, or a spot you think birds will likely fly over based on the wind and weather. Don’t be afraid to be different. Butz has based his entire snow goose career on that, and the proof is in the piles. “A typical outfitter is going to run a 1,200-decoy spread with a couple of Vortex machines and blare the e-caller all day,” he says “You need to go small with quality decoys or get your buddies together and get a massive 3,000- to 5,000-decoy spread.” Saskatchewan Sometimes, Saskatchewan hunters call snows “summer geese” because you can hunt snows almost into summer there. Even the adults become more susceptible when they cross into Canada. Veteran snow guide Dusty Brown says it’s like hunting fresh birds during fall because the geese get obsessed with breeding and feeding, and the pressure they’ve experienced during fall and spring goes out the window. They basically become new birds. Even during poor-hatch years with few juvies, the hunting in Saskatchewan can be lights out. A few outfitters specialize in spring snows up North (swiftriveroutfitters.com is a good one), and the hunts can be phenomenal, especially as you get closer to the breeding grounds and birds are feeding hard every morning. Don’t be afraid to go it alone in Saskatchewan, either. There are ample freelance opportunities, but like anything worthwhile, it’s hard work. You will put birds to bed every night, go in and set up for the morning and tear down every afternoon – unless you get on a burner field the geese just can’t ignore. California The Sacramento Valley and Northeastern Zone can provide one of the most unique goose hunts of your life. “We’re not directly going after snow geese, but our spread looks like it,” says Rocque Merlo of merlowaterfowl.com. “We use a couple hundred specklebelly decoys and another 400 to 700 snows.” Merlo’s outfit chases snows in fall (you can kill 20 a day, plus 10 specklebellies), but you can hunt snows until March in the Northeastern Zone and keep on going north through eastern Oregon and Washington if you have the time and ammo. “The access is extremely tough,” Merlo says of his spots in Sacramento Valley. “Guides have most everything locked up, but a lot of guys are heading to the northeast. You can still knock on doors and get access up there.” Maryland and Delaware In the early 1990s, Tommy Marvel began to see greater snow geese push west of Route 301, which runs through Kent County, Maryland, and into Delaware “It used to be greaters would roost on Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, and we targeted them in cornfields,” says Marvel, who owns Chesapeake Guide Service (chesapeakeguideservice.com). “The biggest concentrations of snows are now farther south at Prime Hook NWR.” Delaware and Maryland are best, but Marvel says New York is on the rise. Greaters typically don’t sit on one roost. They use farm ponds and other small waters, and Marvel has seen them on Chesapeake Bay, too. His outfit hunts primarily fields with 600 to 1,000 full-bodies or 1,800 to 2,000 silo socks. Near the end of the season (typically February or March), when birds have been shot out of the fields, Marvel turns his attention to small roosts and loafs. “We don’t do it until we have to, but there’s a point when they just won’t come to decoys in a field, so we get set up around 9 a.m. and shoot them as they come back to water.”
Post: 1 July 12:24
Captain Ryan Nitz — Florida Hunting & Fishing Influencer, Blogger & Trophy Snook Guide Captain Ryan Nitz — Jupiter, Florida-based fishing guide, outdoor influencer and hunting blogger known for trophy snook, inshore/backcountry charters and public-land bow hunts. Learn his methods, top species, gear and conservation work. Who is Captain Ryan Nitz — outdoor Influencer and Blogger Captain Ryan Nitz is a Jupiter, Florida-based fishing guide, outdoor influencer and blogger who builds his brand around inshore and backcountry fishing, wildlife photography, and guided hunting trips across Southeast Florida. His social channels and charter listings position him as a working captain and content creator focused on trophy saltwater fish and public-land big game. Why Ryan Nitz ranks among Florida’s top fishing guides and Influencers Ryan has built a reputation as a “fishy” captain who consistently targets trophy inshore species on the southeast coast of Florida. His public profile, media appearances and charter pages underline his status as a go-to guide for anglers seeking large snook and other inshore game fish. Snook fishing: Captain Ryan Nitz — trophy snook expert Ryan is widely recognized for targeting trophy snook — fish that, in SE Florida, can grow into the 40–48 inch class. His content and interviews emphasize structure, moving water and targeting large snook on flats, backcountry cuts and around docks. For anglers searching for “trophy snook guide,” Ryan’s name commonly appears in regional media and podcast interviews about giant snook techniques. Where he fishes and hunts Primary operating areas include Jupiter and the southeastern Florida coastline, with frequent trips inshore, on flats and into backcountry mangrove systems and tidal passes. On land, Ryan uses Florida public hunting areas and regional public lands for whitetail and turkey hunts — blending coastal and inland expertise to serve anglers and hunters looking for authentic Florida experiences. How Ryan prefers to fish: flats, backcountry and flats-style tactics Ryan’s fishing style centers on flats and backcountry tactics: poling a skiff or using a stealth canoe, working moving water and structure, and deploying both live bait and top-water/soft-plastic presentations depending on conditions. In interviews he explains that current, structure and abundant bait are key to locating big snook, and he recommends skipping small paddle tails and shrimp baits under docks and structure when numbers — and trophies — are the goal. Hunting focus: whitetail, Osceola turkey and public-land bow hunts Beyond saltwater, Ryan documents regular public-land hunts for Florida whitetail, Osceola turkey and feral hogs. His feed and posts include successful bow hunts and large public-land bow bucks, highlighting a mix of tree-stand, ground blind and mobile “run & gun” tactics appropriate for Florida’s habitats. These hunting activities contribute to his audience as both a hunting blogger and outdoor influencer. Popular trophies and species — Trophy snook: the signature species associated with Ryan’s brand, often highlighted as 40-plus-inch fish. — Tarpon & snapper: inshore/nearshore game fish that appear in charter offerings. — Florida whitetail & Osceola turkey: headline land trophies shown in hunt posts and videos. Gear, weapons and preferred equipment - Fishing gear: spinning and fly setups for flats/backcountry; live bait (mullets/shrimp) and a mix of top-water and soft-plastic lures for staging snook and other inshore species. Guides who target trophy snook typically use stout rods, high-capacity reels, and leader material appropriate for structure-fighting fish. - Hunting weapons and tactics: Ryan’s public content shows an emphasis on archery (bow) for many of his public-land deer tags and turkey seasons, plus standard concealment strategies (tree stands, ground blinds) and mobile approaches for spring turkey hunts. Specific firearm use is governed by the species, locality and season regulations. Conservation, community and media presence Ryan leverages his platform as an influencer and blogger to support local conservation messaging: he speaks about the importance of habitat, collaborates with media and conservation groups, and participates in projects that raise awareness for Everglades and inshore ecosystem health. His media coverage and podcast appearances reinforce his role as a conservation-minded guide who balances sport with stewardship. For anglers and hunters searching “book a snook guide in Jupiter Florida” or “Florida hunting blogger,” Ryan’s charter listings and Instagram are the primary booking and contact channels. Follow him for real-time updates, media drops and booking info; search “Ryan Nitz charters Jupiter” to locate his official charter listing pages. Captain Ryan Nitz's Instagram (52.3k followers): @ryannitz
Post: 10 September 14:37
When the Savannah Calls: Mastering Masvingo's Hunting Seasons and Calendar for Legendary Trophies Hunting Regulations and Seasonal Framework in Masvingo The official hunting season in Masvingo Province runs from May 1 to October 31, strictly regulated by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA). Unlike neighboring provinces, Masvingo's unique lowveld ecosystem allows extended buffalo hunting until November 15 in designated concessions due to late dry-season water availability. The 2022 wildlife reforms introduced mandatory tusk and horn DNA registration for all harvested elephants and sable antelope, with a 20% reduction in leopard quotas province-wide. Special provisions exist for year-round crocodile management hunts along the Runde and Save Rivers, requiring daily GPS reports to ranger stations. The region's granite kopjes and mopane woodlands create micro-seasons, with early season (May-June) best for predator hunting near remaining water sources. Game Availability and Peak Hunting Windows Masvingo's three distinct hunting zones offer varied opportunities: Gonarezhou fringe (elephant/buffalo), Nuanetsi ranchlands (sable/roan), and Bikita woodlands (leopard/kudu). Prime time for elephant is August-September when herds concentrate on the Runde River banks. The province hosts the Great Limpopo Buffalo Classic every July, combining trophy hunting with transboundary conservation efforts. Unlike Midlands Province, Masvingo permits limited eland hunting (June-August) in specified areas due to crop protection needs. Historical movement patterns show sable bulls are most visible in early October when they descend from the Chiredzi River cliffs to drink at seasonal pans. Protected Species and Hunting Restrictions in Masvingo Absolute bans protect rhino, wild dog, and ground hornbill. Female kudu with calves and elephant breeding herds are strictly off-limits. The November 1 - April 30 closure safeguards calving seasons, with additional restrictions on hippo hunting during January floods. Temporary bans were enacted in 2023 for leopard hunting in Gonarezhou buffer zones after a feline distemper outbreak. All hunters must use .375 H&H or larger for dangerous game and non-toxic shot within 10km of major waterways. The province enforces unique no-fly zones over hunting areas to prevent aerial spotting. Licensing and Operational Requirements Foreign hunters must obtain Masvingo Conservation Permits through licensed operators, costing $12,000-$50,000 depending on species. Required documents include: Zimbabwean police firearm clearance, proof of previous dangerous game experience, and $100,000 medical evacuation coverage. The province mandates two professional guides for all elephant hunts and satellite phones in remote areas. Unique to Masvingo is the ivory/horn sealing system requiring ZPWMA officials to implant microchips within 8 hours of harvest. Trophy inspections occur at Rutenga, Ngundu, or Chiredzi checkpoints. Penalty System for Violations Fines reach $120,000 for rhino-related offenses with mandatory 15-year hunting bans. In 2022, a South African outfitter received permanent revocation of licenses for baiting leopards outside season. The province employs K9 anti-poaching units that conduct random camp inspections. All vehicles are subject to ballistic fingerprinting - rifles must match registered serial numbers exactly. The use of drones for game spotting incurs automatic $25,000 fines. Tactical Considerations for Masvingo Hunts Gonarezhou elephant hunts require .470 Nitro Express for close-quarters work in thick jesse bush. Nuanetsi sable hunting demands .300 Weatherby Magnum for 400-yard shots across open grasslands. Bikita leopard setups need gen3 night vision (special permit required) for granite outcrop ambushes. Unique to Masvingo is the termite mound wind-check system - guides burn specific grasses to monitor morning thermals. Always pack spare rifle stocks - the mopane wood's alkaline dust corrodes laminate finishes rapidly. The Great Limpopo Buffalo Derby (July-August) stands as Masvingo's premier hunting event, where participants compete for the heaviest buffalo trophies while funding transboundary anti-poaching patrols along the Zimbabwe-South Africa border. This unique competition requires hunters to document herd demographics through camera traps and collect DNA samples from harvested bulls, with evening "boss measuring" ceremonies judged by ZPWMA-certified scorers under the stars at Rutenga Camp. For predator enthusiasts, the Gonarezhou Leopard Project (May-June) operates under strict scientific oversight, combining limited trophy hunting with crucial population research. Participants work alongside wildlife biologists to fit GPS collars on competing males, with mandatory attendance at daily lectures on feline conservation. The event's innovative scoring system rewards ethical shot placement and data collection as much as trophy quality. The Sable Valley Cup (September-October) transforms the Nuanetsi ranchlands into Africa's most exclusive antelope hunting grounds. This invitation-only event features: Helicopter-assisted tracking of mature sable bulls Traditional tracking demonstrations by Shangaan elders Mandatory participation in grassland regeneration projects Trophies are judged on both horn symmetry and ecological data contributed to the Zimbabwe Wildlife Database. Unique to Masvingo is the Crocodile Conservation Safari (year-round), where hunters take problem animals threatening riverside communities. Participants must complete rigorous water safety training and assist researchers with nest surveys. All harvested crocodiles undergo stomach content analysis to monitor ecosystem health.
Post: 26 August 13:53
XXXIV FECIEX 2025 (11.09-14.09) – Iberian Hunting, Fishing & Nature Fair in Badajoz, Spain From September 11–14, 2025, the Feria Badajoz IFEBA will host the XXXIV FECIEX – Feria de la Caza, Pesca y Naturaleza Ibérica, one of the most important hunting and fishing fairs on the Iberian Peninsula. This annual event brings together passionate hunters, anglers, nature lovers, and outdoor industry professionals in a dynamic and family-friendly environment. XXXIV FECIEX 2025 History & Organization Since its inception in the early 1990s, FECIEX has grown into a benchmark event for the Spanish and Portuguese hunting and fishing sectors. Organized by Feria Badajoz IFEBA, it has consistently showcased innovations, preserved traditions, and promoted sustainable outdoor activities. Each edition attracts thousands of visitors and hundreds of exhibitors from Spain, Portugal, and beyond, strengthening Badajoz’s role as a key meeting point for the industry. The fair offers a comprehensive program designed for both professionals and families: Hunting & Fishing Exhibitions – Showcasing weapons, optics, accessories, lures, boats, kayaks, and more. Competitions – Traditional hound trials, pigeon shooting, and fishing tournaments. Workshops & Demonstrations – From fly casting to wildlife photography. Family Activities – Nature-themed games, educational talks, and live demonstrations. Networking Opportunities – For hunting and fishing clubs, conservation groups, and equipment manufacturers. Iberian Focus – Special exhibitions highlighting the unique biodiversity and outdoor traditions of Spain and Portugal. The XXXIV FECIEX – Feria de la Caza, Pesca y Naturaleza Ibérica is more than just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of Iberian outdoor heritage, bringing together tradition, technology, and nature conservation. Whether you are a hunter, angler, conservationist, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors, FECIEX 2025 offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with like-minded enthusiasts, explore the latest products, and experience the rich cultural traditions of Spain and Portugal. Mark your calendar for September 11–14, 2025 and prepare for an event where nature, sport, and community come together in perfect harmony. Why Attend? Cross-border appeal – Serves as a cultural and commercial bridge between Spain and Portugal. Tradition meets innovation – Merges classic hunting and fishing heritage with cutting-edge equipment and sustainable practices. Rich cultural program – Includes gastronomy, rural crafts, and conservation awareness campaigns. Strategic location – Badajoz’s position near the Portuguese border makes it ideal for visitors from across the Iberian Peninsula. http://feciex.es
Post: 12 August 14:22
THE WORLD of Hunting and Fishing. Autumn 2025 — Crocus Expo, September 25–28, 2025, Moscow, Russia THE WORLD of Hunting and Fishing. Autumn 2025 is set to be one of the most significant trade fairs for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in Russia and Eastern Europe. Hosted by Crocus Expo, one of the largest and most modern exhibition centers in Russia, the event will take place from September 25 to 28, 2025, in Moscow. This international exhibition serves as a hub for outdoor professionals, manufacturers, retailers, outfitters, and enthusiasts. With a strong emphasis on hunting and fishing equipment, nature-based tourism, and innovation in outdoor gear, the fair combines B2B networking with consumer engagement on a grand scale. History and Growth of THE WORLD of Hunting and Fishing. Autumn 2025 Originally established in the early 2000s by Crocus Expo, “THE WORLD of Hunting and Fishing” has grown into a biannual flagship exhibition, held each spring and autumn. Over the years, it has attracted increasing attention from both international exhibitors and Russian regional outdoor sectors. Spring 2025 figures: - 472 exhibitors from 18 countries - 43,281 visitors over four days - Business program featured dozens of seminars, masterclasses, and industry roundtables Audience and Attendance Expectations The autumn edition is expected to exceed spring figures, with: 500+ exhibitors from Russia, CIS, Europe, and Asia Over 50,000 attendees, including both B2B visitors and outdoor sports enthusiasts Strong representation from regional hunting and fishing associations, as well as retailers, tourism boards, and federal agencies The autumn edition is traditionally larger in terms of retail focus and tourism-related showcases, with strong participation from brands preparing for Russia’s hunting season kickoff in October. Venue and Location Crocus Expo International Exhibition Centre is a modern, world-class venue located in the northwestern part of Moscow, easily accessible by metro, highway, and international transport links. Its scale and amenities make it ideal for industry-specific exhibitions with large-scale participation. Full address: Mezhdunarodnaya Street, 16, Krasnogorsk, Moscow Region, Russia, 143401 Key Sectors and Highlights of THE WORLD of Hunting and Fishing It covers the full spectrum of outdoor life and sporting gear, appealing to both professionals (retailers, outfitters, gear manufacturers) and outdoor enthusiasts (hunters, anglers, travelers). The Autumn 2025 edition promises to offer: Hunting Equipment and Firearms Rifles, shotguns, and hunting pistols Knives, bows, crossbows, scabbards Ammunition, optics, carrying gear Tactical clothing and cold-weather gear Fishing Gear and Technology Reels, rods, tackle systems, bait and lures Sonars, fish finders, underwater cameras Fly-fishing accessories, ice fishing gear Outdoor and Recreational Gear Camping tents, survival kits, cooking equipment Clothing for cold and wet weather GPS, rangefinders, and navigation tools Mobility and Off-Roading ATVs, snowmobiles, boats Outboard motors, electric propulsion systems Roof racks, trailers, hunting carts Tourism and Outfitters Game lodges and hunting resorts across Russia Fishing and river tours Expedition and wildlife photography services Business Program and Networking The fair is not only a showcase but also a professional forum. In 2025, the Autumn edition will include a targeted business program, focusing on: Import/export trends for hunting gear in Russia New legislative updates in firearms and land use Eco-tourism opportunities and protected area hunting B2B matchmaking sessions and investment pitches A dedicated zone for business meetings and seminars by leading industry experts will be available, enhancing the expo’s importance as a place for strategic collaboration and contract negotiations. Whether you're a retail buyer, a hunting lodge operator, a gear manufacturer, or simply an avid outdoorsman, THE WORLD of Hunting and Fishing. Autumn 2025 is your gateway to the Russian and Eurasian outdoor sports market. Held in one of Europe’s largest and most modern exhibition centers, and powered by a legacy organizer like Crocus Expo, this event delivers a powerful blend of commerce, discovery, and education — just in time for the start of Russia’s autumn hunting season. Reserve your spot, plan your trip, and get ready to explore the frontiers of outdoor innovation in Moscow this September. Website: https://huntfishexpo.ru Organizer website: https://www.crocus-expo.ru
Post: 11 August 08:38
Falconry Equipment Guide: Essential Gear for Hunting with Birds of Prey. 1. What Is Falconry Equipment? 2. Why Proper Gear Matters 3. Core Falconry Tools and Their Functions 4. Types of Falconry Equipment by Category 5. Materials and Craftsmanship 6. How to Choose Falconry Gear 7. Equipment for Different Falconry Styles 8. Maintenance and Safety Tips 9. Where to Buy Falconry Equipment 10. Final Thoughts --- 1. What Is Falconry Equipment? Falconry equipment refers to the specialized tools and accessories used to train, handle, and hunt with birds of prey—such as falcons, hawks, and eagles. This gear ensures the safety of both the bird and the falconer, facilitates effective communication, and supports ethical hunting practices. --- 2. Why Proper Gear Matters Using the right falconry gear is critical for: • Safety: Preventing injuries to the bird and handler • Control: Managing the bird during training and flights • Training Efficiency: Reinforcing behaviors and recall • Bird Welfare: Reducing stress and ensuring comfort Inadequate or poorly fitted equipment can lead to escape, injury, or failed hunts. --- 3. Core Falconry Tools and Their Functions Here’s a breakdown of the essential falconry equipment every falconer should know: • Falconry Glove (Gauntlet): Protects the falconer’s hand and forearm from talons • Hood: Covers the bird’s eyes to keep it calm during transport or rest • Jesses: Leather straps attached to the bird’s legs for control • Leash: Connects jesses to the glove or perch • Swivel: Prevents leash tangling • Perch (Block or Bow): Resting platform for tethered birds • Lure: Simulates prey during training and recall • Telemetry (Radio or GPS): Tracks the bird during free flight • Scales: Monitors the bird’s weight for health and performance • Bath Pan: Allows the bird to clean and hydrate • Mews: Secure housing for the bird --- 4. Types of Falconry Equipment by Category 🧤 Handling Gear • Gloves (single or double-layered leather) • Arm protectors (aba or chaps) 🪶 Bird Gear • Hoods (Dutch, Anglo-Indian, Arab styles) • Jesses (traditional or Aylmeri) • Anklets and bewits • Bells (brass or nickel-plated) 🧲 Control and Tracking • Swivels and leashes • Telemetry transmitters and receivers • Tail mounts and leg mounts 🪢 Training Tools • Lures (rabbit, pigeon, or feathered) • Creance lines (long training cords) • Bow nets and Bal Chatri traps (for initial capture) 🏠 Housing and Transport • Mews and weathering yards • Hawk boxes (giant hoods) • Perches (block, bow, ring, screen) --- 5. Materials and Craftsmanship High-quality falconry gear is typically made from: • Kangaroo leather: Lightweight, strong, and flexible • Cowhide: Durable and protective for gloves • Stainless steel: Used in swivels and telemetry mounts • Wood and aluminum: For perches and transport boxes Craftsmanship matters—poor stitching or cheap materials can compromise safety and longevity. --- 6. How to Choose Falconry Gear When selecting falconry equipment, consider: • 🐦 Bird species and size: A Harris’s Hawk needs different gear than a Peregrine Falcon • 🧍 Falconer’s experience level: Beginners may prefer simpler setups • 🌦️ Environment: Wet climates require rust-resistant materials • 🎯 Purpose: Hunting, display, or rehabilitation Always prioritize fit, comfort, and durability. Ill-fitting hoods or jesses can cause stress or injury. --- 7. Equipment for Different Falconry Styles 🏹 Hunting Falconry • Lightweight gloves for mobility • GPS telemetry for long-range tracking • Camouflaged gear and silent swivels 🎓 Display and Educational Falconry • Decorative hoods and bells • Custom perches for public settings • Portable hawk boxes 🧪 Rehabilitation and Research • Adjustable jesses and scales • Minimal-stress hoods • Data-logging telemetry --- 8. Maintenance and Safety Tips • Clean leather gear with saddle soap and condition regularly • Inspect jesses and leashes for wear before each flight • Store hoods in dry, ventilated areas • Calibrate telemetry devices before use • Replace worn swivels and bells promptly Proper care extends the life of your gear and protects your bird. --- 9. Where to Buy Falconry Equipment Trusted sources include: • Specialized falconry suppliers (e.g., Mike’s Falconry, Mac Falcon) • Falconry clubs and meets • Custom leather artisans • Online marketplaces with verified reviews Avoid generic pet stores—falconry gear requires precision and expertise. --- 10. Final Thoughts Falconry is a centuries-old tradition that demands respect, skill, and the right tools. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned falconer, investing in quality falconry equipment is essential for success, safety, and the well-being of your bird. From handcrafted hoods to high-tech telemetry, each item plays a vital role in the art of hunting with raptors. Choose wisely, maintain diligently, and fly responsibly.
Post: 5 August 20:51
Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days 2025 Elverum – August 7–10, 2025 The Anno Norwegian Forest Museum, Elverum (Hedmark) The Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days 2025, Norway’s largest outdoor fair, runs from August 7–10, 2025, at the Anno Norwegian Forest Museum, Solørvegen 151, Elverum, Hedmark. This hallmark event brings together hunting and fishing sections, equipment zones, seminars, demonstration areas, and exhibitor stands under one roof—drawing on local hunting traditions and national federations. History Since its inception in 1962, the Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days has evolved into Scandinavia’s most significant gathering for outdoors enthusiasts. Organized by the Anno Norwegian Forest Museum in partnership with the Norwegian Hunters and Anglers Association (Norges Jeger- og Fiskerforbund), the exhibition combines cultural heritage with modern outdoor lifestyles. Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days 2025 Elverum Program Hunting & Fishing Seminars: Hosted by industry experts and federations Demo Zones: Live demonstrations including canine training, casting, and tools Exhibitor Area: 250+ brands showcasing equipment, clothing, traditional harvest products, and outdoor tools Family and Youth Activities: Children’s fishing pond, forest school programs, outdoor games Cultural & Forestry Topics: Forestry, craftsmanship, traditional food, and Finnish region heritage Opening Hours The Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days 2025 welcomes visitors throughout the extended weekend with the following schedule: Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Scandinavia’s Premier Outdoor Adventure Fair Event Details Name: The Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days Organizer: Anno Norwegian Forest Museum & Norwegian Hunters and Anglers Association Country / City: Norway, Elverum (Hedmark), Eastern Norway Venue Address:The Anno Norwegian Forest Museum—a leading forestry and outdoor culture center—is situated by the Glomma River. In addition to regular exhibits on hunting, trapping, fishing, and forestry, the museum hosts events like the Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days and Fluefiskedagene (Fly Fishing Days). It serves more than 100,000 annual guests. Solørvegen 151, 2407 Elverum Dates: Thursday 7 August – Sunday 10 August 2025 Estimated Attendance: Over 30,000 visitors across four days; around 250 exhibitors From 7–10 August, the Nordic Hunting and Fishing Days 2025 transforms Elverum into Scandinavia’s outdoor heartland. Expect over 30,000 visitors, 250 exhibitors, live demos, seminars, family-friendly zones, and deep cultural context in one immersive experience. Website: skogmus.no
Post: 25 July 06:20
Duck hunting in Kenitra (Morocco): A complete guide for hunters. Learn about the seasons, rules, and traditions. Geographical and natural features of the region Kenitra and the surrounding areas of Morocco offer a variety of wetlands attractive for duck hunting.: - Cebu River Estuary: The wide delta of the Cebu River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean north of Kenitra, is a crucial stopping point for migrating ducks. Shallow waters, lagoons and coastal thickets provide an excellent place for feeding and shelter. - Coastal lagoons: Numerous lagoons along the Atlantic coast provide rich feeding grounds and nesting sites. - Water meadows and rice fields: During the rainy season, these areas flood, attracting many waterfowl. - Climate: Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. The winter months are the most favourable for hunting migrating ducks. Hunters and demographics of the region Accurate statistics on the number of duck hunters in the Kenitra area are not publicly available. However, it can be argued that: - Local hunters: Duck hunting is a traditional activity for many residents of coastal areas. - Visiting hunters: The area attracts hunters from other regions of Morocco and foreign countries. However, the number of hunters visiting may vary depending on the season. - Controlled hunting: The Moroccan authorities exercise strict control over hunting in order to conserve duck populations and other natural resources. Hunting features Duck hunting in the Kenitra area has its own peculiarities: - The need for a boat: Access to many hunting areas is only possible from a boat. - Knowledge of the tides: Given the coastal location of the land, knowledge of the tides is crucial for choosing the time of hunting and effective positions. - Stealth: Successful hunting requires stealth, the ability to disguise yourself and approach birds unnoticed. - The ability to identify duck species: Knowledge of different types of ducks, their habits and habitats increases hunting efficiency. Types of hunting in the region. Hunting animals in the region. Types of hunting: - Hunting from a boat: The most common method of duck hunting in coastal areas. - Hunting from cover: Used in flooded meadows and rice fields. - Decoy Hunting: Mimicking the sounds of ducks can attract birds within shooting distance. Hunting animals: - Various types of ducks: Mallard, whistling teal, broad-nosed, and other species. The composition of species may vary depending on the migration season. - Sandpipers (in smaller numbers): They can be hunted in certain areas. Hunting seasons in the region Hunting seasons in Morocco are set annually by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. Duck hunting is usually allowed during the winter months, when migrating birds are in the region. Before planning a hunt, it is necessary to specify the current dates of the opening and closing of the hunt. Associations and clubs of hunters in the region In Morocco, there are national and regional hunter associations that can provide information on hunting regulations, licensing and other aspects of hunting in the Kenitra area. Hunting legislation in the region Hunting in Morocco is regulated by national legislation. This includes: - Mandatory hunting license: The license is issued after passing the appropriate procedures and exams. - Production limits: There are limits on the amount of game produced. - Prohibition of hunting certain species: Hunting of rare or endangered species is strictly prohibited. - Rules for the use of weapons: There are strict rules for handling weapons. The traditions of the region in terms of hunting Duck hunting in the Kenitra area has its own traditions, often passed down from generation to generation, including the use of traditional boats and hunting methods. Interesting facts about hunting in the region - The mouth of the Cebu River is an important stop for migratory birds that fly from Europe and North Africa. - The Kenitra area is known for its biodiversity. The presence of various types of ducks makes it attractive to hunters. Duck hunting in the Kenitra area can be an exciting and productive activity. However, remember that hunting must be conducted in strict accordance with the law, with respect for nature and local traditions. Plan your hunt in advance, check out the current rules and restrictions, and enjoy this unique experience. #HuntingMorocco #MoroccoHunt #NorthAfricaHunting #TalassemtaneHunting #RifMountainsHunt #MoroccanWildlife #BigGameMorocco #SmallGameMorocco #Sahara #GazelleHunting #HuntingAfrica #MoroccanTradition #WildBoarMorocco #GameBirdsMorocco #Kenitra #HuntingTravelMorocco
Post: 6 July 14:02
Hunting Shorebirds in Morocco: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Ban on Shorebird Hunting in Morocco, Regional Variances, Relevant Laws, and the Ongoing Role of Hunting Traditions in Conservation Efforts. Geographical and natural features of the region Morocco has diverse landscapes that are important for hunting: - The Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts are key migration sites for migratory birds (ducks, geese, sandpipers). - Wetlands (Merzha-Zerga, Ued-Marsa) are the main places of accumulation of waterfowl. - Mountainous areas (Atlas, Reef) – hunting partridges, pigeons, hares. Hunters and demographics of the region - According to the Moroccan Hunting Federation, there are about 30,000 licensed hunters in the country. - Most of them are locals, but there are European hunters (especially from France and Spain). - Hunting is a part of rural culture, but its popularity is declining in cities. Features of hunting in Morocco - Migration corridors – In autumn and spring, huge flocks of birds fly through Morocco. - Traditional methods – hunting with decoys, on flights, with dogs (spaniels, brakki). - Limited infrastructure – few specialized hunting farms, more often wild hunting. Types of hunting and the main types of game 1. Bird hunting (main direction): -Ducks (mallard, teal) - Geese (gray, white-browed) - Sandpipers (woodcock, snipe) - Partridges (red, stone) 2. Animal hunting (less common): - The Hare-hare - Wild boar (in forest areas) - The Fox Hunting seasons (current data for 2024) - Waterfowl: from November 1st to January 31st. - Partridges, pigeons: from October 1 to February 20. - Wild boar: allowed all year round in some regions (due to harm to agriculture). Bans: - Starting from 2021, a complete ban on hunting shorebirds (sandpipers, herons) in coastal areas has been introduced due to population decline. - Hunting with electronic decoys is also prohibited at night. Hunting clubs and associations - Royal Moroccan Hunting Federation (FRMC) – regulates the issuance of licenses. -Hunting associations in Casablanca, Rabat, Agadir – organize tours for foreigners. Hunting legislation - License is required (cost ~50-200 euros depending on the type of game). - Weapons: 12- and 20-caliber rifles are allowed, but the import of foreign weapons is difficult (it is better to rent on site). - Fines for violating the rules – up to 1,000 euros, confiscation of weapons. Hunting traditions in Morocco - Falconry is a historical method, especially in desert areas. - Hunting with greyhounds – the traditional way of hunting hares. - Public hunting – collective trips are organized in some villages. Interesting facts - Morocco is a key stop for birds flying from Europe to Africa. -Woodcock is considered prestigious prey among local hunters. - Flight hunting is one of the most adventurous ways due to the high activity of birds at dawn. Morocco is an interesting destination for bird hunters, but with severe restrictions, especially in coastal areas. Before traveling, you should clarify the current laws and obtain a license through FRMC. #HuntingMorocco #MoroccoHunt #NorthAfricaHunting #TalassemtaneHunting #RifMountainsHunt #MoroccanWildlife #BigGameMorocco #SmallGameMorocco #HuntingSeasonMorocco #MoroccoOutdoors #HuntingAfrica #MoroccanTradition #WildBoarMorocco #CoastalHunting #MoroccoAdventure #HuntingTravelMorocco
Post: 3 July 06:06
Exploring the Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve: Laws, Clubs, Legislation. A Hunter’s Guide to Access and Opportunities in the Gao Region The Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve, located in Mali’s Gao Region, is a hidden gem for hunters seeking an authentic African safari experience. Nestled in the arid yet breathtaking landscapes of the Sahel, this reserve offers a unique blend of wildlife, challenging terrains, and cultural richness. However, accessing the reserve requires careful planning due to its remote location, security concerns, and regulatory framework. This article provides a comprehensive guide for hunters interested in exploring the Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve. Nature’s Blueprint: Geographical Insights for Hunters The Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve spans approximately 3,500 square kilometers in the Gao Region, near Mali’s eastern border with Niger. The reserve lies within the Sahelian zone, characterized by semi-arid savannas, rocky plateaus, and sparse vegetation. The Niger River flows nearby, providing critical water sources for wildlife and shaping the region's ecosystems. Key features of the reserve include: Diverse Habitats : Open savannas, dry woodlands, and seasonal wetlands create ideal conditions for various species. Wildlife Corridors : The reserve serves as a vital migration route for animals moving between Mali and neighboring countries. Challenging Terrain : Rocky outcrops and sandy plains demand adaptability and physical endurance from hunters. Accessing the Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve Accessing the reserve requires navigating logistical and security challenges: Starting Point : The nearest major city is Gao, located about 120 kilometers west of the reserve. Travelers typically fly into Gao Airport or arrive by road from Bamako or other cities. Transportation : Four-wheel-drive vehicles are essential for traversing the unpaved roads leading to the reserve. Many hunters hire local guides or outfitters who provide transportation and equipment. Security Concerns : The Gao Region has experienced instability due to insurgent groups and armed conflicts. Hunters must coordinate with local authorities and rely on experienced guides familiar with safe routes. Permits and Entry Requirements : Visitors need special permits issued by Mali’s Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development. These permits often require coordination with local communities and conservation organizations. Who Hunts Here? A Demographic Deep Dive Hunting in the Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve is primarily practiced by locals who depend on wildlife for subsistence or ceremonial purposes. Recreational hunting is less common but growing among foreign enthusiasts seeking rare trophies. Exact numbers of hunters are unavailable, but the activity remains niche due to limited infrastructure and regional instability. Characteristics of Hunting in the Reserve Hunting in Ansongo-Ménaka is both rewarding and demanding: Climate : Extreme temperatures and limited water sources test hunters’ resilience. Game Tracking : Animals like antelopes and gazelles are elusive, requiring patience and skill. Safety : Dangerous species such as crocodiles and occasional predators necessitate caution. Types of Hunting and Game Animals The reserve hosts a variety of game species: Big Game : Roan antelope, hartebeest, Dorcas gazelle, and occasionally buffalo. Bird Hunting : Migratory birds like ducks and francolins are popular targets. Reptiles : Crocodiles near water sources may be hunted under strict regulations. Small Game : Rabbits, squirrels, and other small mammals are common for local hunters. Nature’s Calendar: The Best Times to Hunt Mali enforces regulated hunting seasons to ensure sustainability: Big Game : December to March, coinciding with the dry season when animals gather around water sources. Hunter Associations and Clubs Formal hunter associations are rare in the Gao Region, but some organizations focus on conservation: Local Community Groups : Villages near the reserve participate in anti-poaching efforts and sustainable hunting practices. Outfitters : Licensed outfitters assist foreign hunters with logistics, permits, and guiding services. Hunting Legislation Mali’s hunting laws aim to balance conservation and sustainable use: Permits are mandatory and must be obtained through the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development. Protected species, such as elephants and lions, cannot be hunted. Bag limits and quotas prevent overhunting. Illegal hunting carries severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Foreign hunters should ensure compliance with all regulations and work closely with licensed guides. Echoes of the Past: Time-Honored Hunting Traditions Hunting holds cultural significance for ethnic groups in the Gao Region, such as the Tuareg and Songhai: Rites of Passage : Young men often participate in hunts to demonstrate courage and skill. Community Sharing : Meat from hunts is shared communally, reinforcing social bonds. Ceremonial Hunts : Special occasions may involve organized hunts, blending tradition with practicality. Modern recreational hunting coexists with these age-old practices. Interesting Facts About the Ansongo-Ménaka Animal Reserve Biodiversity Hotspot : Despite its arid climate, the reserve supports a surprising diversity of species adapted to harsh conditions. Transboundary Wildlife : Animals migrate between Mali and Niger, highlighting the reserve’s role in regional conservation. Rare Trophies : Due to conservation efforts, trophies from species like the dorcas gazelle are highly prized. #AnsongoMénakaReserve #GaoRegionHunting #SahelSafari #WildlifeConservationMali #RemoteHuntingAdventures #NigerRiverWildlife #TraditionalHuntingCulture #Sustainable #BirdHuntingMali #ChallengingHuntingTerrain #CommunityConservation #RareTrophies #CulturalHuntingTraditions #DrySeasonHunting #ExploreAnsongoMénaka
Post: 30 June 09:25
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