There’s a lot that goes on beneath the surface of the water. A basic understanding of what lies beneath will improve your odds of catching fish.  

Not All Lakes are Created Equal 

Just because it’s a body of water doesn’t make it fishy. What’s underneath the surface has a lot to do with its productivity. That’s why scientists developed a classification system that labels lakes based on their nutrient density. The trophic chart divides lakes into three categories: oligotrophic, mesotrophic and eutrophic. 

Oligotrophic lakes are the ones you want to avoid. They’re generally considered unproductive for fishing. Nutrients don’t stick around long in these lakes, meaning there’s not much food for the fish to eat. Oligotrophic lakes are deep, with little shoal area. They also have water that flows in and out, which flushes out many of the nutrients, according to Phil Rowley, who has been fishing lakes almost exclusively for more than two decades. If you’re looking to target big trout, oligotrophic lakes are not for you. 

Mesotrophic lakes fish a little better. These lakes are a little shallower with more shoal area. Because the bottom gets more sunlight, there’s more growth on the floor. The nutrients stay in these lakes longer, making a slightly richer habitat for trout. Mesotrophic lakes are generally considered so-so for fishing. 

Eutrophic lakes are where it’s at when it comes to fishing. These lakes are shallow, often less than 50-feet deep. They have everything fish love including rich weed growth and a soft, muddy bottom. Eutrophic lakes offer the perfect habitat for food that the trout need to grow fat and happy. If you’re looking for a fishy lake, locate a eutrophic lake.  

Are You in the Zone? 

Not only should you need to identify what kind of lake to fish, you then need to locate where the fish live. Lakes are divided into several zones. Fish utilize these zones in different ways. By understanding what drives the fish to these areas, you’ll give yourself the best shot at feeling a bite. 

When some people think of the shoreline, they think of what’s above water, but the shoreline extends into the lake. The shoreline consists of the water from the edge to about 5-feet deep. Trout tend to cruise the shores in the early mornings and late day, according to Rowley. They also can be found feeding along the shore in the early spring, once the ice melts, and late fall before the freeze. 

The shoal is slightly deeper than the shoreline, about 20-feet or less. It’s shallow enough to generate plant growth along the bottom. This provides a wealth of nutrients for life. “Think of the shoal area as the grocery store,” Rowley said. “This is where the majority of the food lives that the trout feed on.” Like a 24-hour grocery store, the shoal is where fish go for a quick snack. This makes it a great place to throw a variety of flies to see what the trout feel like biting that day. 

The drop-off is the transition area between the shallower shoal and the deep, dark water. “Trout cruise along the edges because they can make a quick foray into the shoal for a bite to eat but if something startles them, they can seek security of the deeper water nearby,” Rowley said. 

Finally, there’s the deepwater zone. This is where trout go when they’re not feeding or there’s an environmental factor like weather that’s put them down. Fly anglers rarely fish the deepwater zone because it’s often not productive and requires more line than is used on a fly rod.  

Study the Seasons 

It’s easy to watch the seasons transition on land but did you know water also goes through major seasonal changes? 

“A good understanding of the four seasons the lakes go through makes you a better angler because you understand what is going on throughout the season and its impact on fish, where they’re located and most of all, it’s going to help you catch more fish,” Rowley said. 

When the temperatures drop for fall, so do the fishing conditions. When lakes begin experiencing water temperatures in the mid to low 30s, trout retreat to deeper water to chill out for the winter. During this time they don’t want to expend much energy, they want to stay cozy, so they don’t put a lot of effort into feeding. This can make for some slow fishing conditions. And once the lake freezes over, now it’s time to trade the fly rod for the ice fishing rod.  

Spring is a special time for fishing. In the days immediately after the ice leaves the lakes, the water remains stratified. During this time trout stay in the shallows, 10-feet or less, which hosts the highest concentration of oxygen. “During this seven to 10 day period after the ice is off, fishing is outstanding,” Rowley said.  

If you hit this time period right, the fishing is outstanding. But it’s a narrow window that’s easy to miss. This period of excellent fishing is usually immediately followed by an event that creates slow fishing. Twice a year, lakes experience what’s referred to as “turnover.” This event lasts five to seven days. Fishing is usually poor because oxygen levels are unsettled, and clarity is reduced. Once the turnover process is complete, the debris settles, water clears up and the fishing improves. As spring temperatures warm up that’s also when the hatches start, and the fishing really heats up. 

Summer is a mixed bag for fly-fishing lakes. Rowley says some anglers experience the summer doldrums. When trout leave shallower water for the deepwater zone, the fishing often slows down. However, algae blooms can aid fishing. During algae blooms trout can be found in the cooler water 6 to 10-feet below the algae. 

Watch in Video Format

For a complete understanding on how to make the most out of fishing lakes, check out the Anchored Outdoors Master Class Stillwater Fishing with Phil Rowley and check out this sample chapter here:

The post Get in the Zone: Understanding Lakes to Improve Your Fishing  appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

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There’s the proverb, “Give a man a fish and you’ll feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you’ll feed him for a lifetime.” But there should be a third part, “Teach a man to fish and you’ll feed an expensive addiction.” 

Fishing can quickly turn from a harmless hobby into an expensive pursuit. Between flies, tackle, licenses, clothing, rods and reels, and let’s not forget boats, fishing can eat up your paycheck faster than a fish hitting a dry fly. But it doesn’t have to. There are many ways to enjoy angling without breaking the bank. 

Here’s your guide to buying fishing gear on a budget. 

Buy Multi-functional Fishing Clothes  

There’s no shortage of clothing companies marketing fishing-specific clothing. Fishing media makes you think you’ll catch more fish if you’re outfitted in the latest and greatest technical wear. But the bottom line is that you just need your clothing to be comfortable and functional for the weather. Take a look at your wardrobe. You likely already own clothes that will work on the water. 

If you choose to add to your closet, stretch your dollars by selecting multi-functional pieces. If you’re fishing in warm weather, you’ll need clothing with sun protection, labeled UPF. This clothing protects your skin during long days on the water. If you need to buy new UPF-rated clothing it will also come in handy for hiking, biking, a day at the beach and even comfortable everyday wear. Quick-dry clothing is great for wet wading and hot days on the water. It’s also useful for sweaty workouts. 

The right clothing is essential to fishing in cold climates. If you do any sort of outdoor recreating in the winter, you already have what you need like baselayers, wool socks, and a warm hat and gloves. For ice fishing, wear warm bibs and winter boots. For more tips check out, “7 Ways to Stay Warm Fishing This Winter.”

Shop Seasonal Sales 

Clothing companies often put last season’s clothing on sale to make room for next season’s shipments. Luckily, fishing isn’t about fashion so it’s OK to wear last season’s styles on the river. The fish won’t know. In the spring, winter clothing typically goes on sale. In the fall, you’ll often find summer clothes marked down. It’s kind of a bummer to pick up something you’re excited to wear and have to wait a few months but it’s a great way to stretch your dollars. 

Buy Secondhand 

There’s a booming market for secondhand outdoor gear and clothing. This is great for the environment and your wallet. Savvy shoppers can pick up items at very discounted rates. I once found a new-with-tags Patagonia hip pouch at an outdoor consignment shop for a fraction of the price. 

There are lots of places to shop second-hand. Many cities have outdoor-specific consignment shops. You can also shop through online apps like eBay, Poshmark, Geartrade and Facebook Marketplace. Some social media groups cater to swapping and selling outdoor gear. Some popular brands even sell used items like REI, Patagonia and The North Face. 

Make a “Gear Wish List” 

I have a “Gear Wish List” saved in the notes on my cellphone. This is partially because if I don’t write things down immediately, I forget. However, it comes in handy for many reasons. First, I’ll often see something out on the water or encounter an experience that will make me realize I would like to add something to my fishing setup. Secondly, this list keeps me on track. It allows me to keep an eye out for what I need on used sites and when shopping sales. Finally, when family and friends ask for gift ideas for birthdays, anniversaries and holidays, I can refer to this list. 

Borrow Instead of Buy 

If you only fish a few times a year, you can probably get away with renting or borrowing equipment. Local fly shops usually have rods, waders and boots to rent. Places also rent kayaks, float tubes and boats. If you have a family member or friend who is addicted to fishing, they probably have more than enough gear to loan out if you go fishing together. Just be sure to respect the gear and care for it like it’s your own. 

Make the Big Buys Count 

When you do make a big buy, do your research and make it count. Many companies offer amazing warranties on everything from rods to waders. Rods get nicked, stepped on and crunched in cars. If you buy from a company that has a good warranty policy the crunch will sting a little less. Polarized sunglasses get chips and scratches. A good company will fix or replace them. 

The post Your Guide to Buying Fishing Gear on a Budget  appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

The technique of Spey casting continues to grow in popularity. Anglers are learning it’s not just for big fish and many are beginning to use it on smaller waterways to target trout. 

“I like trout Spey because it’s different,” said Whitney Gould, guide, world-casting champion and instructor for the Anchored Outdoors Trout Spey Masterclass. “It gets clients out of the boat, and they can try a new technique.”

If you’re interested in trying out trout Spey, here’s what you need to get started. 

The Right Size Rod and Reel 

Spey rods are traditionally longer, heavier rods used to fight steelhead, salmon and Alaska-sized trout. And while traditionally that’s been the case, manufacturers also make Spey rods more suitable for smaller streams. When targeting any species of fish it’s important that the rod size match the fish size.  

“Rods are built for the intended species,” Gould said. “Using a rod that’s too heavy will hurt the fish and take the enjoyment out of it.” 

For your average-sized trout, look at Spey rods in sizes 2-weight, 3-weight and 4-weight. These rods will be approximately 10’6” to 11’6” long and made to cast lines weighing about 175 to 305 grains. These sizes are comparable to single-handed rod sizes 4-weight, 5-weight and 6-weight. 

Not only is using too big of a rod harmful for fish, it takes away some of the enjoyment. You can become fatigued using a heavy rod all day. It’s also a lot more fun to fight fish when using a lighter rod. 

Many Spey anglers choose a reel that’s a size larger than the rod to balance it against the longer length. Caged or fully-enclosed reels can prevent line from escaping. 

Fly Line 

Spey casting gives you distance, but you need the right line to maximize the performance. Gould uses Scandi and Skagit lines when trout fishing. Both are shooting-head line systems. This means they have three pieces: the shooting head, running line and tip. Gould says choosing between Skagit and Scandi can be a personal preference for anglers. 

Scandi lines are most commonly used for smaller flies with lighter leaders. They cast delicately in small streams. Skagit heads are designed for heavier flies and sink tips. They cast well in windy conditions. There are also integrated Spey lines, which weld the running line and shooting head into one continuous piece. This can be a great option for beginners. Gould encourages anglers to try a variety of setups to see what works best for them. 

Flies 

Trout anglers have a tendency to carry a very full fly box. You just never know what the fish will be eating that day, so “match the hatch” is always a good rule. Your local fly shop can help with this if you’re new to the area or unsure about which insects are prevalent. But if you plan to spend a day on the water with your Spey setup, you’ll definitely want to bring along some streamer-like flies to swing. Having a trout take the fly on the swing is the ultimate Spey fishing experience.  

As this practice has grown in popularity, manufacturers have created trout-Spey specific flies. These patterns borrow designs from bigger flies used to target steelhead and salmon. Many also feature flashy materials that can trigger trout. Soft-hackle flies work very well.  

For a complete look at getting started in Trout Spey check out the Anchored Outdoors Masterclass “Trout Spey with Whitney Gould.” 

The post Gear to Get Started in Trout Spey appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

Dress for the Weather 

You won’t land a winter steelhead if you’re not out on the water. Wearing the wrong gear is the quickest way to call it quits before getting a bite. Layer properly with wool socks, the right baselayers and a warm jacket. Accessorize with a hat, glove and neck gaiter. Be sure your waders and boots aren’t too snug. Cutting off circulation makes you even colder. For more detailed ways to stay warm read, “7 Ways to Stay Warm Fishing This Winter.” 

Practice Keeping a Tight Line  

Steelhead can be finicky fish. If you want to trick them into eating your fly, you’ll need the right presentation. The right rod is helpful, but it won’t make you a better caster without putting in the practice. 

“Practice makes your winter steelhead fishing more enjoyable,” advises Mia Sheppard in the Anchored Outdoors Online Course “Intro to Winter Steelhead Fishing.” 

In the class, Marty Sheppard recommends practicing a tight line swing. Having a tight line from the beginning gives the fly the right movement. He says, in general, steelhead aren’t very aggressive during the winter. He encourages anglers to work on having a consistent speed with their swing. He says if the fly is too jumpy it may spook the fish and discourage a bite. Also, Marty says not to fish out a bad cast. He believes bad presentation can sweep fish out of a spot. He encourages anglers to recast until the leader rolls over and lands in a straight line on the water. 

Consider the Conditions for Fly Selection 

There’s no magic fly that works all the time. Fly selection should be based on the conditions of the water and weather. Your choice might even come down to the individual run you’re swinging through. That’s why it’s important to always carry a variety of flies in your box. 

As a general rule, Mia says to fish bright flies on bright days, and darker flies on cloudy days. If the water is high, switch to a weighted fly so it gets deeper quicker. In clear water, use a smaller profile fly. But Mia’s biggest piece of advice for fly selection is that you should be confident in what you pick.

If you get a bite, it’s always worth changing flies and trying again. Marty Sheppard says often steelhead won’t take the same fly, but he’s seen new flies trigger them again. 

Play it Right 

If you’ve ever hooked into a chromer, you know the importance of playing it right. Landing one is anything but a guarantee. Through years of practice, Marty has picked up some tips. Once the steelhead eats, wait until it’s heavy and taking line off the reel before making any movements with the rod. He says it’s important to set the rod tip toward the bank, never toward the river. 

He also likes to play the fish by keeping his rod low. He said this gives the right amount of tension to keep the fish on. Steelhead are notorious for making big runs and many anglers make the mistake of trying to net them before they’re ready. Marty says you’ll know the fish is ready when you can lift its head, but always be prepared to let it run one last time if it wants. Once it’s in the net, always remember proper fish handling techniques like keeping it wet. 

Winter steelhead fishing is truly something special. It’s an excuse to get out in the elements and hook a once-in-a-lifetime fish. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, there are tips for everyone in Anchored Outdoors’ course “Intro to Steelhead Fishing.”

The post 4 Tips for Catching Winter Steelhead  appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

For many anglers, there are few experiences as exhilarating as a steelhead ripping line from their reel. These feisty fish are some of the best fighters out there, making them a choice favourite for fishermen and women around the world. Known for “playing hard to get”, steelhead are renowned for living in rough weather areas and for being difficult to catch. For many of us, steelhead fishing, downpours and blizzards seem to go hand in hand. 

If you’re someone who’s been interested in chasing chromers, start with our Intro to Winter Steelhead Fishing class with Mia and Marty Sheppard. But having the skills necessary to land a steelhead only takes you so far. “The key to a happy day on the river is staying warm and dry,” advises Mia Sheppard in the masterclass. 

Here are some tips and tricks for staying warm while fishing in wintery weather:

Baselayers 

Baselayers build the foundation of a layering system. Without the right baselayers, you’ll get cold quickly. Fleece and Merino wool are two of the best fabrics to wear against the skin. Synthetic fabrics and wool absorb sweat without getting wet. 

When picking baselayers remember your “ABCs – anything but cotton.” Never use cotton as a baselayer. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, which can lead to discomfort and potential hypothermia. 

Socks 

Winter fishing means wading through cold water. Your choice of socks can mean the difference between calling it quits after a couple of casts or sticking it out all day on the water. Merino wool is the best option and some people even choose to wear liners underneath thicker socks for extra warmth. But you need to make sure multiple pairs will fit comfortably in your boot. If your boots are too tight they will reduce your circulation and make you even colder. 

Waders 

“Layering up is really important and you want to be able to fit those layers underneath your waders,” says Mia. If you plan to fish frequently in the winter, consider sizing up your waders to account for additional layers. Sheppard recommends GORE-TEX. She also says bootfoot waders are warmer than stocking foot waders. 

Down

Down is a favorite among outdoor recreationists. Wearing a down jacket and pants won’t take up much room in your layering system (down is incredibly lightweight), but they’ll provide you with a ton of warmth. The downside to down is that when it gets wet, it loses its loftiness and warmth. Some companies use synthetic down because it stays warm when it gets wet. It’s always a good idea to pack a shell layer too. 

“It will be raining and snowing, those are the elements that you need to prepare for, and having a rain jacket just adds that extra layer of wind and rain resistant,” says Mia Sheppard.  

Accessories 

Don’t forget gloves, a beanie and a neck gaiter. These will make all the difference in keeping you warm. Fingerless gloves are helpful for fishing but try to have a warmer pair as a backup. Also carry hand and foot warmers, as they can be lifesavers when your extremities get chilly. Another useful tool to have nearby is a hand towel. It comes in handy when your fingers get wet after releasing a fish. 

Bring Extra Clothes 

Always bring a dry bag with extra clothes. Despite your best efforts to stay dry, a day on the water can bring all sorts of surprises. Extra clothes are particularly important if you fall in the water. In the winter, ice along the shore can create slippery wading conditions that make it more likely to take a tumble into the water. It’s best to be prepared. 

Pack Snacks and Survival Supplies 

Fishing in cold weather is one time you don’t have to worry about skimping on the snacking. Eating will warm you up. Having a thermos with something hot is always nice but be sure to pack cold water too. It’s important to stay hydrated, even when the sun is nowhere in sight. Also, carry some basic survival supplies like a blanket and fire starting kit. If you’ll be out of service, bring a satellite communication device in case of emergency. 

Winter steelhead fishing isn’t for everybody, but with the right gear and attitude, you can find some hot fishing during the cold winter months. 

Sign up for Mia and Marty’s Winter Steelhead Course here.

The post 7 Ways to Stay Warm Fishing This Winter  appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

The majority of big game hunting seasons come to a close at the end of the year. It’s bittersweet for most hunters. Gone are the mornings of waking up to the sunrise in a treestand, and you’ll have to wait until next year to end the evening listening to bugles in the dark. But the close of hunting season doesn’t mean the thrill of the pursuit of antlers is over. You’ll just need to adjust where you’re looking for them. 

Members of the deer family lose their antlers during the winter and spring months. These dropped antlers are commonly called sheds (or “cast antlers” in certain parts of the world). The practice of finding sheds is becoming an increasingly popular, and in some areas, competitive pastime. Shed hunting provides numerous benefits. It’s an opportunity to scout for game, get some exercise and collect a prize. 

Professional hunting photographer Steven Drake is extremely knowledgeable about shed hunting. He’s spent years and hundreds of miles in the mountains in pursuit of brown gold. If there’s a shed in the area, Drake will find it. In his Shed Hunting Masterclass for Anchored Outdoors, he covers everything shed hunters need to know to be successful, including some of his hard-earned tips that he rarely shares. Here’s how to get ready for shed season. 

Learn the Right Timing 

Elk, deer, moose and caribou all drop their antlers, but the timing depends on the species and its geographic location. Whitetails, blacktails and mule deer typically drop their antlers in January and February, while elk hold onto theirs until April. 

Drake says that getting this timing right is one of the keys to success. If you head out too early, not only do you risk getting skunked because the antlers are still attached to the animal, but you might also push the animals out of the area. 

Drake says he starts shed hunting later in the season to avoid stressing out animals. This can be a delicate balance because if you wait too long, the sheds will be tougher to find. By mid-June, for example, there’s often enough new plant growth that spotting sheds becomes extremely difficult with all the vegetation.  

Know the Rules 

Many states regulate seasons for when hunters can search for sheds on public land. It’s during the winter months that these game populations are under the most stress, which is why it’s important to avoid putting undue stress on them. Before heading out, always look up the rules for the area. If you have any questions, call the local wildlife agency. Following the rules ensures you get to keep any sheds you find, avoid a costly ticket, and help protect wildlife populations. 

Where to Look 

Finding a shed antler can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. For most people, the most difficult obstacle when shed hunting is knowing where to look. This comes down to learning where the animals spend time during the winter. For example, elk will often feed on open, south-facing slopes during the winter before bedding in north-facing slopes with thicker timber. Finding these types of patterns will help you locate sheds. If you’ve been watching whitetails, look for sheds in areas where they’ve been feeding and bedding.  

Gear Up 

You don’t need much gear to go shed hunting. If you’re already an outdoor enthusiast, you likely have it all. Wear the right layers for the weather conditions. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking boots. Bring a backpack to carry some survival gear, a communication device and any sheds that you find. It’s also helpful to carry binoculars and a GPS. 

Use Your Eyes 

One piece of advice you might not expect that comes from Drake is the importance of glassing, and not just for animals. Drake spends hours behind his spotting scope and binoculars looking for sheds. He recommends looking with the sun behind your back to make it easier, as well as using a tripod to keep things steady. 

Shed hunting provides valuable insight into animal patterns and landscapes. Plus, sheds are cool. There’s something incredibly rewarding about finding one after a long search. You can use them as decorations or for crafting… some people even find enough to build Christmas trees. Whether you’re just getting started or are a die-hard like Drake, shed hunting is a great way to spend the spring.  

Buy Steven’s class today at https://courses.anchoredoutdoors.com/courses/shed-hunting-with-steven-drake!

The post Get Ready for Shed Hunting Season! appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

Forget the Crowds 

Spring, summer and fall are the busiest seasons on the water, as most anglers plan their fishing trips during these months. Sometimes such timing is to target a certain hatch, but usually it’s just to enjoy the warmest weather. These months are also the busiest for other recreationists such as tubers, kayakers and other water sports. If you’ve ever fished a popular river on a warm summer weekend, you know all too well how desirable some quiet time is, even if it means freezing fingers.  

Fly-fishing in the cold can be uncomfortable. When winter starts spitting snow and ice begins to form along the banks, you’ll find fewer anglers. When temperatures drop below freezing and you’re chipping the ice out of the guides of your rod (this is a good way to break your rod so be careful), you might be the only one on the water. But as long as you come prepared with warm layers and the right attitude, you’ll enjoy a peaceful and beautiful day. 

Life Slows Down 

During the winter, the sun rises later and so do the fish. You don’t need to be out the door first thing in the morning to get to the best fishing. You can actually take your time and enjoy your morning coffee. In many waterways, the fish don’t even turn on until the water warms up. Even the water itself slows down during the winter, which can make it easier to wade fish. You may be able to access new spots that were too high during other times of the year!

Try New Tactics 

Trout usually move into slower water during the winter. They’re focused on surviving the cold and conserving their energy. That means you’ll need to search for fish in different spots. You’ll also need to try some different tactics to get them to bite. 

Since trout won’t move very far to grab your fly, dead-drifting a nymph is a popular winter technique. You can learn all about nymphing in the Anchored Outdoors Masterclass “Trout Techniques & Tactics with Out Fly Fishing Outfitters.” Dead-drifting a streamer is also fun because big fish have a reputation for eating big flies.

Learn Your Winter Flies 

If you’re new to winter fly-fishing, it’s an exciting opportunity to learn more about what trout eat this time of year. Chironomids (casually referred to as midges) make up a lot of a trout’s winter diet. Unlike many other bugs, midges can complete an entire life cycle in the winter. Renowned biologist and angler Brian Chan covers this and more in the Anchored Outdoors Masterclass, “Chironomid Fishing with Brian Chan.” 

It Gets You Through the Winter 

Winter is rough for some people, especially those who spend a lot of time inside. The dark and cold can make people feel trapped. Spending time on the water can do wonders for physical and mental health. It’s also a great time to improve your abilities. I spent last winter working on my roll cast. On warm, calm days I would spend an hour or two working on my technique. Catching a fish was just a bonus. Plus, the winter is a great time to try something new like Spey casting.  

Winter fishing isn’t for everyone, and that’s why it’s fun. With many rivers remaining open year-round and anglers always looking to get out, fly-fishing for trout is something you can enjoy nearly every day of the year. 

The post Five Reasons to Fish For Trout Over the Winter appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

Learning to field dress an animal is an awesome opportunity to connect with your food source and respect the kill. These tips will give you the confidence to be successful. 

Find a Mentor 

The best way to learn how to hunt is to find a partner willing to teach you. Not only is it safer to hunt in pairs, spending a day in the field with a seasoned hunter is an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge earned over years of hard work. A mentor will teach tactics like locating game, playing the wind and sneaking up on your quarry. 

Be sure to find a mentor who’s interested in teaching. Let them know you want to learn in a hands-on way. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the process. You won’t learn if you don’t ask—everyone was new once. Listen carefully to their instructions for both learning and safety purposes. 

Always Have a Plan 

Always be prepared for a successful hunt. This means carrying a field dressing kit in your backpack at all times. It should include gloves, knives, game bags and a bone saw. It’s also important to have a way to transport the meat from the field to your vehicle. In some cases, you might be able to retrieve the animal using an ATV or truck. Other hunters use game carts, which are similar to wheelbarrows.  

Hunters also transport meat in backpacks. Use a frame pack that is designed to carry weight. For pack-outs, it’s important to know your limitations. Don’t hike in further than you can carry something out. Hunting three miles in somewhere might be easy carrying 10 lbs. but can you do it carrying out 60 lbs. or more? 

You’ll also need to watch the weather. If you get an animal down when it’s hot out, can you pack out all the meat before it spoils? It’s always a good idea to have friends and family on standby to help. Having a team of packers is fun and very effective. 

Know the Rules 

Before hunting an area it’s always important to read through the regulations. The rules regarding field dressing can vary by unit. For example, in many areas, you are required to leave the meat on the bone. Often you are required to leave evidence of sex naturally attached. In some situations, you’re required to present the animal for tagging by authorities. Knowing these rules before you go into the field will have you prepared and keep you out of trouble. 

Watch Videos

The internet is a wealth of resources. There are lots of instructional videos that can help new hunters learn about meat care. If you’re planning to pack the animal out, check out videos on quartering. This method breaks down the meat into sections that are easier to carry out. 

Anchored Outdoors Masterclass “Whole Animal Butchery with Chef James Viles” is an excellent resource for learning how to utilize every piece of the animal. Viles is a celebrated chef and professional butcher of more than 25 years. His masterclass covers how to process wild venison and walks you through what to do with each cut of the meat. 

Enjoy the Process 

Harvesting an animal is often the result of hard work. Take time to enjoy your accomplishment. While it’s important to treat the meat in a manner in which it won’t spoil, you also don’t need to rush through the process. Be sure to separate the meat from the hide and guts as soon as possible to keep it clean. After that, there are ways to age the meat for maximum tenderness and flavor. (Viles covers this in the masterclass.) 

Taking the opportunity to learn the art of butchering an animal is important. With practice, the process becomes easier. And you’ll likely find that meals seem to taste better when they’ve been prepared by your hands from field to table. 

The post Tips for Field Dressing Your First Animal appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

Most children love animals. But when I was a kid, I didn’t just love animals, I was convinced I was one. The dolls my mom bought sat untouched in boxes, instead, My Little Ponies could be found around every corner. While my friends pretended to be princesses, I was barking like a dog or neighing like a pony. 

I was an over-the-top animal-loving child. I also grew up in a household with a passionate hunter. My dad’s office was filled with mounts, and he’d cut up elk, deer and antelope meat at the kitchen table. While some people might worry our passions would come into conflict, that was never the case. My dad shared my love of wildlife and nature. My favorite memories involve fishing, hunting and exploring the outdoors together. 

As an adult, I still consider myself an animal-lover, as well as a passionate hunter. I’ve also added the title of mom. Hunting is a huge part of my life, and it’s something my toddler is becoming increasingly aware of. From the time she was born, she’s been scouting, shed hunting and eating all kinds of wild game like elk, moose and caribou. She overhears hunting stories, attends hunting camp and sees us process meat. Hunting is just part of her life but I know one day she might have questions, and I need to have the right answers. 

Hunting involves so much more than killing an animal, and I’ve had to explain that to people a lot. Hunting takes you on amazing adventures, provides money for conservation, and gives you a deeper connection to nature and your food. Hunting isn’t all about killing, but sometimes it involves the death of an animal and that can be a complicated subject to talk about with kids. 

Here’s some advice from people who are passionate about talking to children about hunting: 

Explain the Food Chain 

“It’s really important to share with kids how plants and animals in the wild are connected via food chains and food webs. That language is too advanced but the concepts and principles of interconnectedness between plant and animal species are paramount to introducing ourselves as hunters and anglers,” said James Jubran, co-owner of Smile Outside. Jubran and his brother, Luke, write children’s books about fish, wildlife and wild lands. Their books are meant to engage and educate children about conservation and the natural world. 

“Some animals eat plants and some animals eat other animals, it’s a simple concept that needs to be pointed out and examples need to be continuously provided as we simultaneously explain that we too, hunt and fish so that we can live and feed our families,” Jubran said.   

In the Smile Outside books, the animals aren’t talking characters, instead, they’re portrayed how they would be found in the wild. “This reality of life and death is one of the reasons we find it so important in our books to portray animals in their natural beauty, so we can show those connections and allow for conversation between child and adult to take place, rather than put all the animals in clothes and give them a narrative,” Jubran said. “Allowing kids to see nature in action allows for a much smoother understanding of how we as humans fit into that natural process as well.” 

Be Open and Honest 

“My number one piece of advice is that parents should always be honest and upfront about hunting and what it’s about. Kids are smart, they’ll figure it out if you try to pull one over on them,” said Beka Garris, a mom and avid traditional bowhunter. Garris bowhunts with her daughter and her social media is filled with photos of the pair’s outdoor pursuits.   

“My daughter is just getting to the age where she is curious about things and can finally start talking somewhat,” Garris said. “If we have venison for a meal, I tell her it’s deer. She knows what deer are. If we’re having chicken, I’ll tell her it’s chicken (we have chickens).” 

Garris strongly believes that if children are raised knowing that animals are a food source and see that hunting is a critical component of that, they will develop an understanding of hunting. “I know my siblings and I were always around when my dad was butchering deer and I never blinked an eye. It’s just how it was,” Garris said. 

Share Family Traditions 

Kyle Mlynar grew up hunting with his father, grandfather and a good family friend. “We hunted a lot and we ate what we harvested. That’s just what I knew,” Mlynar said. 

Now as a father, Mlynar is passionate about passing his hunting heritage on to his daughters. “I tried to keep it simple and basic. I went out with the mentality that we were exploring and looking for animals and if all went well, we might get some meat for the freezer.” 

Mlynar believes too many people have forgotten that the meat they buy at the store was once a living animal. He wants his children to know that for people to eat meat, an animal must die. 

“It was important for me to convey that hunting is part of our lifestyle, as it is where our meat comes from,” Mlynar said. “We have pets at our house and just like most kids, mine are animal lovers. Having said that, they know different animals have different purposes. They know deer are animals we eat, they know dogs are pets or used for hunting and they know horses are for riding. Either way, they all have a purpose.” 

Mlynar believes the lessons from hunting translate into other areas of life. The patience, perseverance and at times, uncomfortableness of hunting trips, make for a better childhood and build character. He says raising hunters means raising strong children. 

“I also think it’s important not to shelter kids when it comes to our food and the facts of life,” Mlynar said. “As a society, we seem to struggle with being honest with our kids and we try to protect them, but a side effect is that they aren’t raised to be aware of what’s going on around them and then when they get older, and they’re exposed to reality, they don’t know how to cope with it.”

Whether it’s sharing a meal of wild game or a day in the field, exposing your children to any aspect of hunting is incredibly rewarding. And having a conversation about where their food comes from and why you choose to hunt, just creates a deeper understanding of the natural world and how you choose to engage with it. 

The post How to Talk to Your Kids About Hunting – Jackie Holbrook appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

Have you wanted to try bowhunting, but don’t know where to start? Anchored Outdoors’ Hunt Coordinator Jackie Holbrook answers all your questions in this “Get Started Bowhunting” presentation. She covers how to choose the right bow and accessories, the best way to learn proper form, and understanding rules and regulations specific to your area. 
Don’t forget to check our calendar to sign up for the latest member’s only fly-tying night!

The post Live with Jackie Holbrook: Get Started Bowhunting appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.

Bow technicians get all kinds of equipment requests. From customers with unreasonable draw weight expectations to those hoping to recycle a beat up bow they found at a garage sale. Here’s their advice for people looking at using a bow that once belonged to someone else.       

Hand-Me-Downs are Tricky 

Sending a bag of gently used baby gear to a new mom is an act of love, unless the clothes are way too small. If that’s the case, you’ve just given her another mess to deal with. That’s kind of what it’s like when people are gifted used archery equipment. It’s an amazingly generous gift when it fits.  

“People think it’s a great deal, and it is, if the bow happens to be set up for them, but the odds of that are slim to none,” said Scot Evans, owner of Feathers & Antlers Outdoors. 

Unlike a firearm, it’s pretty much impossible for a bow to transition seamlessly from one user to the next. The major difference is that compound bows need to fit the bowhunter’s physical frame in a much more narrow and specific way. The bow needs to be the proper poundage and draw length. A bow’s poundage is how much weight the archer draws back. If it’s too heavy, you risk injury, or you might not even be able to draw it at all. Compound bows are set up to be drawn a specific length. This is the draw length. Having a draw length on a bow that’s too short or long for your body will cause bad form, resulting in poor shooting and bad habits.  

Because people come in all sizes, companies have started to manufacture compound bows with adjustable draw lengths and poundage. However, this is pretty recent. If you’ve been given a bow that’s around 10 years old, getting the right fit is tough. 

“A lot of times with older bows you can’t get the right parts for them,” said Matt Eddie, the store manager at The Archery Den. “They’re draw length specific, and to adjust that you have to change out parts and with older models you can’t get those parts.” 

Before buying a used bow make sure you know your draw length and the poundage you can pull. If you don’t, take a quick trip to an archery shop where bow technicians will happily help. Any equipment you buy either needs to already fit or be easily modified with readily available parts. 

When is Old, Too Old?

If the bow fits, most bow technicians agree it can get the job done. “As long as the poundage is right, it’ll do just as much damage as the bows we’re using today,” Eddie said. However, there’s a but to that. “It might not be as fast or as smooth as newer bows.” 

Compound bow technology has advanced a lot in recent years. Bow technicians advise most of their customers to at least consider purchasing a new bow, if it’s in their budget.   

“Decade-old bows, the old straight limb, small cam bows, they weren’t very adjustable and technology has come so far in the last few years,” said Jim Sjogren, a bow technician at VanWinkles Archery. “I think it would be worth spending a little bit of extra money and getting something that is more current.” 

If you’re wondering what the current lineup of bows have that their predecessors don’t, the answer is a lot.  

“Bowhunters should have something with a smooth draw cycle,” Sjogren said. “There needs to be enough brace height so that it’s a forgiving bow. That means it’s easy to be accurate with. Most upper end bows today with the parallel limbs have very little wasted energy. They’re quiet, smooth and fast.” 

“We certainly get a lot of old bows in here,” Evans said. “It’s going to come down to preference, comfort and what the person wants. If somebody brings me in a 10-year-old bow I’m not going to say, ‘Oh that’s a piece of crap.’ It does the same job as these brand-new bows. But when customers start asking questions, I tell them, ‘Well your old one only has about 65% let-off, an aggressive draw cycle and it’s not very fast.” 

The newer models might be easier and more comfortable to shoot, but that doesn’t mean everyone needs to buy a brand-new one. Bowhunting success comes from being comfortable with your equipment. Plenty of bowhunters choose to continue to use their older gear because it’s proven successful year after year. 

You Don’t Need the Latest and Greatest 

The price tag for going bowhunting can add up quick, especially when a beginning bowhunter visits the archery shop. A brand-new high-end bow will probably cost around $1,000 and that doesn’t include accessories like a rest, quiver, release, sight, arrows and broadheads. With manufacturers releasing new technology every year, customers frequently ask bow technicians if they need a new bow to keep up. 

“To stay up with the latest and the greatest some people do buy a new bow every year,” Sjogren said. “But as far as shootability goes, there is really no need. Bows today, especially if you’re going to invest in a good bow, that is something that can last a lifetime.” 

Not all beginning bowhunters have access to hand-me-downs, used equipment or thousands to invest upfront. That’s when mid-range bows become a great option. A lot of bow manufacturers have package deals on the market for this very reason. These starter kits usually come with accessories like a rest, quiver and sight. Most of these kits range between $400 to $600. These bows have a wide range of draw lengths and weights. 

Trad Bows are the Exception  

“I’ve got some good old wood bows that were made back in the 50s and 60s and they’re still excellent shooters,” Sjogren said. “A lot of people like that stick and a string challenge. There is really nothing that feels quite the same as a good quality wood bow in the hand.”

Bow technicians agree traditional bows are in a class of their own. Shooting a hand-me-down traditional bow is in fact a tradition of its own. 

“Maybe their grandfather used to shoot traditional, so they will do it for that connection or the challenge,” Evans said.  

Their much simpler design helps traditional bows hold up much better overtime. But that doesn’t mean they can go straight from the garage to the field. 

“Please let a bow tech look at it before you ever shoot it,” Eddie said. “Maybe it’s a grandfather or uncle’s bow that has been sitting there for 15 years without being restrung. Those strings could be dry rot or other parts could be damaged and need to be repaired before you shoot it. We don’t want to see anybody get hurt and we don’t want to see the bow get torn up beyond repair.” 

Whether it’s traditional or compound, never shoot any used bow before having it checked out by a bow technician. There might be a lot of factors to consider but whether it’s brand-new or new-to-you, bowhunting comes down to your connection to your bow. 

The post New or Used? Does it Matter When Buying Bows? appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.