Introduction Duck hunting on the Mississippi Flyway is unlike hunting anywhere else in North America. From early-season teal hunts in the marshes of Louisiana to late-season mallards in Minnesota ice holes, conditions change dramatically as ducks travel south. I’ve spent seasons chasing birds from top to bottom of the Flyway, and I can tell you … Read more
🛶 When I first started fishing, a canoe was my boat of choice. It was lightweight, easy to strap on top of my truck, and I could paddle into places no motorboat could reach. But the more I fished, the more I realized its limitations. Stability Matters Fishing from a canoe taught me balance — … Read more
🎣 I’ve had the chance to fish from both Jon boats and bass boats, and while both have their place, they fit very different styles of fishing. The Bass Boat Dream Bass boats are impressive — fast, sleek, with enough storage for ten tackle bags and multiple rods. If you’re into tournament fishing, it’s the standard. … Read more
When I started boat shopping, I faced the big question: new or used? My budget wasn’t unlimited, so I leaned toward used. Here’s what I learned along the way. The Savings Are Real The price difference between new and used boats is huge. By going used, I saved thousands right up front. I didn’t worry as much … Read more
One of the biggest decisions I faced when shopping for a Jon boat was whether to go with a flat bottom or a semi-V hull. Flat Bottom: My First Choice The flat bottom is perfect for calm water. It’s stable, easy to load, and lets me slide right up onto the bank. Standing to cast feels solid, and … Read more
When I started shopping, I quickly realized not all Jon boats are the same. I dug into different brands and tried a few firsthand. Tracker Tracker boats are everywhere, and for good reason — they’re affordable and widely available. I’ve fished out of a couple, and they’re solid all-around boats. Lowe My first Jon boat … Read more
When I was finally ready to buy a boat, I realized I didn’t even know what to check. So I built my own boat buying checklist, and it saved me more than once. Hull & Structure I looked for dents, cracks, or repairs. A solid hull was non-negotiable. I also pressed on the floor for soft … Read more
If you’ve never tried squirrel meat, you’re missing out. I grew up eating fried squirrel with gravy, and to this day it’s one of my favorite wild game meals. The meat is lean, mild, and takes on seasoning beautifully. Fried Squirrel with Gravy The classic Southern dish. Soak in buttermilk, dredge in seasoned flour, and … Read more
One of the first things I tell new hunters: “Check your state regulations.” Squirrel seasons, bag limits, and legal weapons vary widely across the country. Here’s a snapshot: (and so on — linking to each state page you’ll publish) Pro Tip: Always double-check your state’s official wildlife website. Regulations can change yearly. When I first started squirrel hunting, … Read more
When I bought my first squirrel rifle, I had no clue what I was doing. I thought any .22 would work — and while that’s partly true, I’ve since learned that the right rifle makes a big difference in accuracy, noise, and even how much meat I bring home. Here’s how I break it down: … Read more