Hunting

New rules mean less smoke, more thrill

Deer hunting with primitive weapons has been radically redefined. Actually the new ruling took effect in the 2005-06 hunting season, so this will be its third year in force. Hunters are still just learning what the provision is and what it means to deer hunters looking for an alternative to blackpowder rifles for our two special primitive weapons seasons in December and January plus on into February in the Zone 2 southeast section of the state. […]

Fishing

Time to consider changing to LEDs

The lights on your trailer are your boat’s first line of defense against collisions. Running lights show other drivers that you have a boat behind you when towing in the dark. Brake lights and turn signals can help keep tail-gating drivers from turning your stainless steel prop into a hood ornament, night or day. That is, of course, if your trailer lights work. […]

Bass Fishing

In November, go with the Panther

Although only open for one year, Calling Panther Lake near Crystal Springs already is one of my favorite places for catching bass. Boat traffic will have decreased by this time of year, and I know I can bet on this 500-acre lake to produce bass weighing up to 7 pounds each. […]

Deer Hunting

Some ideas for your deer backpack

It’s a good thing somebody invented the ATV; otherwise, I could never get all my gear to the deer stand. Well, the guys in my deer camp don’t call me the Gadget Man for nothing. You may recall Gunsmoke episodes where the old traveling salesman would drive his wagon into town with his stock of house wares banging and clanging from the wagon. That’s me, except I use a Honda Foreman. […]

Hunting

Are you ready for bow season? Really?

It may be way too hot and humid to be outside these days, but it’s that time again to limber up the ol’ bow. And at the same time, also getting the shoulders, arms, and neck muscles stretched in shape. Getting that sighting eye tuned in again is good practice now, too. Before you know it, our designated start-up archery season the first day of October will be here. […]

Freshwater Fishing

Variety spices up Pickwick action

My pick this month is Pickwick Lake on the Tennessee River in Northeast Mississippi. Pickwick is an unusual lake because it borders three states — Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama. Although I’ll launch on the Mississippi side of the lake, I’ll run upriver to Alabama waters. You’ll need an Alabama fishing license as well as a Mississippi fishing license if you’re going to catch some of those big smallmouths, largemouths and stripers that will be concentrated below the dam at the headwaters of Pickwick Lake. […]