Jack Payne shows off a near master angler sturgeon.
By Jack Payne
I might be the easiest person to buy a gift for. It's endless the number of items that I need to replace, use extensively, or wish to have. Most of these items range from a few bucks to a few over the $100 mark.
I use a handwarmer muff six months out of the year. I put mine to use for the week or two of ice-fishing season that we have. Our walleye season on the Detroit River starts up in late March.
Fishing the river, bow hunting or gun hunting deer, my hands are bare, or at the most, they are wearing a thin pair of gloves. The muff keeps both hands warm when deer hunting and, on the river, I often rotate one hand holding the rod while the other hand warms up in the muff.
Drift socks are a staple of my fishing. My largest and simplest sock finally gave up the ghost this year. No complaints, it lasted just over 30 years. A drift sock provides both boat control and boat speed. We use a sock for just about any species of fish that we target.
I carry a compass every time that I am in the field. I own two compasses and have them in my backpack all hunting season. During turkey season, it's in my vest. When I am scouting public forest lands, I would never consider leaving my truck out of sight. Buy two; a compass will never fail you.
I just received a new pair of lightweight hikers. My first time using the Salewa brand. What drew me to these hikers was the weight. They are super lightweight and waterproof. Most of my hikes take place on terrain that is not super-rugged, and these hikers fit the bill.
Another item I have multiples of is some types of stocking hats. I have a heavy-duty wool knit hat for those really cold morning hikes or the early days on the river. I also have a lightweight hat for days when temperatures range from the high 30s to the low 50s.
Rain gear is another must-have item. It goes into my boat in late March and stays there until late December. I have two sets of Frogg Toggs. One is their top-of-the-line model that I use when fishing, and the other is their lower-priced model that I keep in my truck.
Rain gear is essential in the spring. Think of rain gear as a wind blocker. Buy a jacket one size larger than your usual size. In this manner, you can layer up. I use the non-insulated suits so I can wear them year-round if needed.
When using braid line, you need a cutter that will cut it. Two brands stand out for our group. The Cuttrtz or Boomerang Tool Snip both work well and are under 15 bucks.
I like wearing a pair of Sunproof fishing gloves. Couple this with a wide-brimmed sun hat, and your most-exposed body parts will be protected from the sun's rays.
All of my hunting partners have a Jet Sled Plastic toboggan. We use them when hauling deer out of the woods and when hauling in hunting stools and such when hunting the state forests in the Upper Peninsula.
My dad gave me a Buck 110 knife, perhaps 35 years ago, and it's still going strong. This is a prized item to me.
This leads to having a quality steel knife sharpener. I keep a knife-honing rod in my truck for nine months of the year.
My fishing partners all have electric vests and love them. Hardly a day on the river goes by without them commenting on it. One of my river fishing buddies also has the electric socks and raves about them. Both are on my list.
Last up, a few Original Floating Rapalas and the Husky Jerks, along with a few marabou or hair jigs, are always needed on the crappie and walleye. Perch and bluegill love the glow in the dark ice-fishing teardrops. Pike gobble up the Daredevel Spoons and Johnson Silver Minnows.
Stop in at Bob's Gun and Tackle Shop for your Christmas items.
I might be the easiest person to buy a gift for. It's endless the number of items that I need to replace, use extensively, or wish to have. Most of these items range from a few bucks to a few over the $100 mark.
I use a handwarmer muff six months out of the year. I put mine to use for the week or two of ice-fishing season that we have. Our walleye season on the Detroit River starts up in late March.
Fishing the river, bow hunting or gun hunting deer, my hands are bare, or at the most, they are wearing a thin pair of gloves. The muff keeps both hands warm when deer hunting and, on the river, I often rotate one hand holding the rod while the other hand warms up in the muff.
Drift socks are a staple of my fishing. My largest and simplest sock finally gave up the ghost this year. No complaints, it lasted just over 30 years. A drift sock provides both boat control and boat speed. We use a sock for just about any species of fish that we target.
I carry a compass every time that I am in the field. I own two compasses and have them in my backpack all hunting season. During turkey season, it's in my vest. When I am scouting public forest lands, I would never consider leaving my truck out of sight. Buy two; a compass will never fail you.
I just received a new pair of lightweight hikers. My first time using the Salewa brand. What drew me to these hikers was the weight. They are super lightweight and waterproof. Most of my hikes take place on terrain that is not super-rugged, and these hikers fit the bill.
Another item I have multiples of is some types of stocking hats. I have a heavy-duty wool knit hat for those really cold morning hikes or the early days on the river. I also have a lightweight hat for days when temperatures range from the high 30s to the low 50s.
Rain gear is another must-have item. It goes into my boat in late March and stays there until late December. I have two sets of Frogg Toggs. One is their top-of-the-line model that I use when fishing, and the other is their lower-priced model that I keep in my truck.
Rain gear is essential in the spring. Think of rain gear as a wind blocker. Buy a jacket one size larger than your usual size. In this manner, you can layer up. I use the non-insulated suits so I can wear them year-round if needed.
When using braid line, you need a cutter that will cut it. Two brands stand out for our group. The Cuttrtz or Boomerang Tool Snip both work well and are under 15 bucks.
I like wearing a pair of Sunproof fishing gloves. Couple this with a wide-brimmed sun hat, and your most-exposed body parts will be protected from the sun's rays.
All of my hunting partners have a Jet Sled Plastic toboggan. We use them when hauling deer out of the woods and when hauling in hunting stools and such when hunting the state forests in the Upper Peninsula.
My dad gave me a Buck 110 knife, perhaps 35 years ago, and it's still going strong. This is a prized item to me.
This leads to having a quality steel knife sharpener. I keep a knife-honing rod in my truck for nine months of the year.
My fishing partners all have electric vests and love them. Hardly a day on the river goes by without them commenting on it. One of my river fishing buddies also has the electric socks and raves about them. Both are on my list.
Last up, a few Original Floating Rapalas and the Husky Jerks, along with a few marabou or hair jigs, are always needed on the crappie and walleye. Perch and bluegill love the glow in the dark ice-fishing teardrops. Pike gobble up the Daredevel Spoons and Johnson Silver Minnows.
Stop in at Bob's Gun and Tackle Shop for your Christmas items.
Outdoor Truths: Retirement Is Not an Option
By Gary Miller
Jason and I eased up the hill toward the place of our morning hunt. He had come a few days earlier and took a leaf blower to the trail to make sure we had the quietest walk possible.
Just over the crest of the hill, only about 400 yards from where we parked, was his hunting house. A house might be an exaggeration. It was only about 4x8 and was in need of a remodel since the year he first built it, but it was still a luxury for any hunter during the cold days of November.
As soon as we got situated, we fired up the propane heater. With the shooting windows closed, it didn’t take long for our small enclosure to warm up to a comfortable temperature. We could then open our thermos and pour that extra cup of coffee that we are usually unable to have on mornings like these. Because of the insulated walls, we were also able to hold a regular conversation without the thoughts of being heard by any cruising deer.
After a few hours of glassing the field for a shooter buck, Jason decided it was time for breakfast. So, he proceeded to bring out his pre-prepared sausage biscuits along with a sheet of aluminum foil. The foil would be used as our cooking pan to warm the biscuits on the heater.
After a few minutes in our make-shift oven, hot biscuits were served. And after that, heated honey buns for that annoying sweet tooth. Now who would not want to hunt this way?
The truth is, the older I get the more I look for opportunities just like these. In fact, I make them. I have discovered I really want to hunt more comfortably. And I want to leave all the heavy-lifting-hunting to the youngsters. After all, I’ve done my part.
While this way of thinking about hunting is fine with me, I fight this method when it comes to serving as a part of my Christian life. I constantly fight the desire to retire from Christian service, let the younger ones do it, and just live less committed to doing my part in the lives of others.
It would be very easy to live a secluded Christian life – reading, praying, and even worshipping, and let the younger ones take the places I’ve held for these many years. Let them volunteer. Let them sacrifice. Let them deal with all the drama. I’ve done my part. I don’t need the headaches. I don’t have to put up with it.
But when I look at those thoughts, I find them slowly moving from others to me. I find myself wanting what I think I deserve instead of what others need and what I am called to do as a Christian. I find I am tempted to forget I am to love God with all my heart and others as myself.
“Lord, help me remember as I age, there is no retirement from serving you. While the areas I serve may change, the need for my service will not. Retirement is not offered in your benefit package. Amen.
“Oh, and Lord, help to remind other Christians that retirement is not an option for them either. Amen.”
—————
Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 22 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild-game dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Write to him at gary@outdoortruths.org.
Jason and I eased up the hill toward the place of our morning hunt. He had come a few days earlier and took a leaf blower to the trail to make sure we had the quietest walk possible.
Just over the crest of the hill, only about 400 yards from where we parked, was his hunting house. A house might be an exaggeration. It was only about 4x8 and was in need of a remodel since the year he first built it, but it was still a luxury for any hunter during the cold days of November.
As soon as we got situated, we fired up the propane heater. With the shooting windows closed, it didn’t take long for our small enclosure to warm up to a comfortable temperature. We could then open our thermos and pour that extra cup of coffee that we are usually unable to have on mornings like these. Because of the insulated walls, we were also able to hold a regular conversation without the thoughts of being heard by any cruising deer.
After a few hours of glassing the field for a shooter buck, Jason decided it was time for breakfast. So, he proceeded to bring out his pre-prepared sausage biscuits along with a sheet of aluminum foil. The foil would be used as our cooking pan to warm the biscuits on the heater.
After a few minutes in our make-shift oven, hot biscuits were served. And after that, heated honey buns for that annoying sweet tooth. Now who would not want to hunt this way?
The truth is, the older I get the more I look for opportunities just like these. In fact, I make them. I have discovered I really want to hunt more comfortably. And I want to leave all the heavy-lifting-hunting to the youngsters. After all, I’ve done my part.
While this way of thinking about hunting is fine with me, I fight this method when it comes to serving as a part of my Christian life. I constantly fight the desire to retire from Christian service, let the younger ones do it, and just live less committed to doing my part in the lives of others.
It would be very easy to live a secluded Christian life – reading, praying, and even worshipping, and let the younger ones take the places I’ve held for these many years. Let them volunteer. Let them sacrifice. Let them deal with all the drama. I’ve done my part. I don’t need the headaches. I don’t have to put up with it.
But when I look at those thoughts, I find them slowly moving from others to me. I find myself wanting what I think I deserve instead of what others need and what I am called to do as a Christian. I find I am tempted to forget I am to love God with all my heart and others as myself.
“Lord, help me remember as I age, there is no retirement from serving you. While the areas I serve may change, the need for my service will not. Retirement is not offered in your benefit package. Amen.
“Oh, and Lord, help to remind other Christians that retirement is not an option for them either. Amen.”
—————
Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 22 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild-game dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Write to him at gary@outdoortruths.org.
Winter Trail Reminders for Cold-weather Adventures
December is off to a snowy start throughout Michigan, providing lots of opportunities to embrace the elements and take to the trails. It’s also a good time to remember ways to ensure your outdoor exploring is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Here are a few reminders from the Department of Natural Resources before you head to your favorite pathway.
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Snowmobiling: Buy your trail permit, check conditions
Michigan’s 6,000-plus miles of DNR-designated snowmobile trails, public roads and public lands (only where riding is authorized) are open Dec. 1-March 31, and trail grooming occurs when there is enough snow on the ground.
Purchase your trail permit and find maps at Michigan.gov/ Snowmobiling.
Be sure to check trail reports and trail closures while planning your excursion, and follow Ride Right safety precautions, including staying on the right side of the trail.
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ORV Riding: Know Where You Can Go
Off-road vehicle riding is allowed on all county roads that are open in the summer, as well as all DNR-designated multiuse trails; note that ORV trails in the Upper Peninsula are marked by letters. Snowmobile-only trails, however, are closed to ORV use Dec. 1-March 31 – snowmobile trails are identified by numbers only on diamond-shaped signs.
In addition, highway rights-of-way are closed until May 1 and therefore are not open to ORVs. These are areas where the trail runs on the side of state and U.S. highways allowing a trail to connect. Always be aware of icy sections, especially on morning and evening rides, and ride in a manner that minimizes trail damage given that some trail terrain may be soft.
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In-the-woods Exploring: Wear Blaze Orange, Follow Trail Etiquette
With the newer extended late antlerless firearm season (Jan. 2-11) in the southern part of the Lower Peninsula, as well as archery deer season remaining open until Jan. 1, be sure to wear your blaze orange while on the trails for any reason. For more details on these seasons, see Michigan.gov/Deer.
Also know when to yield and how to interact with other trail users by practicing trail etiquette. Remember that courteous communication goes a long way toward safe passing and interacting with others on the trail.
Learn more at Michigan.gov/DNRTrails or contact DNR state trails coordinator Tim Novak at 517-388-8347.
—————
Snowmobiling: Buy your trail permit, check conditions
Michigan’s 6,000-plus miles of DNR-designated snowmobile trails, public roads and public lands (only where riding is authorized) are open Dec. 1-March 31, and trail grooming occurs when there is enough snow on the ground.
Purchase your trail permit and find maps at Michigan.gov/ Snowmobiling.
Be sure to check trail reports and trail closures while planning your excursion, and follow Ride Right safety precautions, including staying on the right side of the trail.
—————
ORV Riding: Know Where You Can Go
Off-road vehicle riding is allowed on all county roads that are open in the summer, as well as all DNR-designated multiuse trails; note that ORV trails in the Upper Peninsula are marked by letters. Snowmobile-only trails, however, are closed to ORV use Dec. 1-March 31 – snowmobile trails are identified by numbers only on diamond-shaped signs.
In addition, highway rights-of-way are closed until May 1 and therefore are not open to ORVs. These are areas where the trail runs on the side of state and U.S. highways allowing a trail to connect. Always be aware of icy sections, especially on morning and evening rides, and ride in a manner that minimizes trail damage given that some trail terrain may be soft.
—————
In-the-woods Exploring: Wear Blaze Orange, Follow Trail Etiquette
With the newer extended late antlerless firearm season (Jan. 2-11) in the southern part of the Lower Peninsula, as well as archery deer season remaining open until Jan. 1, be sure to wear your blaze orange while on the trails for any reason. For more details on these seasons, see Michigan.gov/Deer.
Also know when to yield and how to interact with other trail users by practicing trail etiquette. Remember that courteous communication goes a long way toward safe passing and interacting with others on the trail.
Learn more at Michigan.gov/DNRTrails or contact DNR state trails coordinator Tim Novak at 517-388-8347.
How to Choose and Care for a Live Holiday Tree
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Family Features
Though artificial Christmas trees have come a long way, few things compare to the fresh scent and natural beauty of a live tree. Whether your family picks out a real tree as an annual tradition or this is your first time considering a live tree for the holidays, this guidance can help you choose the right one and care for it throughout the season.
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Measure Your Space
Before you head to your local tree farm, measure the ceiling height where you plan to set up the tree, subtracting the amount of room your star or topper will account for. Similarly, measure the width to ensure the tree doesn’t encroach too much on furniture or traffic flow.
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Choose the Right Tree
While the options can be overwhelming once you’re among the field of available trees, consider what shape would fit best in your space: Do you want a fuller or slimmer tree to fit a tighter space? Is a uniform shape without large gaps in the needles important or do you need stronger branches better equipped for handling heavier ornaments? Don’t forget to also consider trunk size – and consider bringing your stand with you to ensure your preferred tree fits – as trees with short or crooked trunks may be unstable.
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Inspect for Freshness and Quality
To ensure a safe, long-lasting, beautiful tree throughout the holidays, look at it from all angles and inspect the needles and branches. Needles should be green, not dry or brittle, and firmly attached to the branches, which should be flexible and not snap easily. If you run your hand through the branches and they break or needles fall off, it may be wise to look at other trees. Remember, if your tree has been cut too early, it may sit too long and dry out before Christmas arrives, so try and buy your tree as close to setup time as possible.
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Set Up with Care
Before placing your tree in the stand, make a fresh cut about 1 inch from the base of the trunk to open the pores for water absorption. Place it away from heat sources – vents, fireplaces, direct sunlight – as they will dry it out faster. Remember to water daily (or at least check it daily), keeping the water level above the base of the trunk.
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Plan for Disposal
Once your tree has dried out – branches may be brittle and lots of needles may have fallen off – it’s time to remove it. Remove all decorations then check to see if your city offers tree recycling or chipping service. Many offer these services for free for a limited time after the holidays but may require you to drop the tree off or cut it into smaller pieces for pick up.
Find more seasonal advice to make the holidays safe and festive at eLivingtoday.com.
Though artificial Christmas trees have come a long way, few things compare to the fresh scent and natural beauty of a live tree. Whether your family picks out a real tree as an annual tradition or this is your first time considering a live tree for the holidays, this guidance can help you choose the right one and care for it throughout the season.
—————
Measure Your Space
Before you head to your local tree farm, measure the ceiling height where you plan to set up the tree, subtracting the amount of room your star or topper will account for. Similarly, measure the width to ensure the tree doesn’t encroach too much on furniture or traffic flow.
—————
Choose the Right Tree
While the options can be overwhelming once you’re among the field of available trees, consider what shape would fit best in your space: Do you want a fuller or slimmer tree to fit a tighter space? Is a uniform shape without large gaps in the needles important or do you need stronger branches better equipped for handling heavier ornaments? Don’t forget to also consider trunk size – and consider bringing your stand with you to ensure your preferred tree fits – as trees with short or crooked trunks may be unstable.
—————
Inspect for Freshness and Quality
To ensure a safe, long-lasting, beautiful tree throughout the holidays, look at it from all angles and inspect the needles and branches. Needles should be green, not dry or brittle, and firmly attached to the branches, which should be flexible and not snap easily. If you run your hand through the branches and they break or needles fall off, it may be wise to look at other trees. Remember, if your tree has been cut too early, it may sit too long and dry out before Christmas arrives, so try and buy your tree as close to setup time as possible.
—————
Set Up with Care
Before placing your tree in the stand, make a fresh cut about 1 inch from the base of the trunk to open the pores for water absorption. Place it away from heat sources – vents, fireplaces, direct sunlight – as they will dry it out faster. Remember to water daily (or at least check it daily), keeping the water level above the base of the trunk.
—————
Plan for Disposal
Once your tree has dried out – branches may be brittle and lots of needles may have fallen off – it’s time to remove it. Remove all decorations then check to see if your city offers tree recycling or chipping service. Many offer these services for free for a limited time after the holidays but may require you to drop the tree off or cut it into smaller pieces for pick up.
Find more seasonal advice to make the holidays safe and festive at eLivingtoday.com.
