Mosquito 101

by Dr. Green

Mosquitoes are out in force once again, and many consumers are faced with the difficult task of choosing the right insect repellent for their particular needs.

Will you be going hunting, fishing or camping anytime soon?

Do you live in a wooded area or somewhere near a lake or stream?

Do you have standing water on or around your property?

Are you flying to your final destination and can?t pack a liquid repellent in your luggage?

And, probably the most important question of all, do you have children that you must also consider?

I’ve found that in most cases, DEET, however successful it may have proven in the past, is overkill when it comes to keeping mosquitoes away. Yes, it is a proven method of repelling, but it is also a chemical that has proven to be dangerous and destructive on many levels. DEET is not only known for causing a number of health issues with the young and old, but it also has a reputation for melting buttons on clothing, watch faces and straps, fishing gear, golf grips and just about anything it comes into contact with. In fact, I once watched a girl hold a can of Coke after spreading DEET on her legs, and the red paint from the Coke can came right off on her hands!! Now that?s something to think about when you are about to put it on your skin!

There are a growing number of viable NATURAL and NON-LIQUID alternatives on the market that do just as good a job as DEET without any of the side effects or risk of damaging your favorite clothing and other gear.

This season, I took a personal interest in researching and testing a couple of these and looking very carefully at the testing associated with one particular product called Bug Bam (http://www.bugbam.com). Unfortunately I couldn?t get my hands on testing for the other products I was interested in, but Bug Bam was very transparent in providing me with their testing data, and I must say, it is very impressive.

To preface how Bug Bam works, let me explain the methods a mosquito uses to find us.

Mosquitoes analyze around 300 different scents that come off each of our bodies. From carbon dioxide to lactic acid, they can detect these scents up to 100 feet away and, as they come closer, they actually begin smelling our very skin. As each person smells differently, some people are more appealing to mosquitoes than others, but overall, mosquitoes are after our protein (blood), which they use to lay their eggs. And mosquitoes don?t actually bite, they have a long ?proboscus?, or needle nose, which they use to pierce the skin and ?suck? our blood.

DEET works by blocking the pores of our skin to prevent mosquitoes from finding us. Without fail, the DEET then goes into our bloodstream and, if used to often or too much, can seriously affect our health causing issues such as brain damage and sometimes even death.

Natural products-such as Bug Bam-work by releasing a scent that masks the wearers own scent from a mosquito. The mosquito smells the scent of the Bug Bam rather than the scent of a human, and goes elsewhere to find its food.

Female mosquitoes are the only ones that seek blood. Males (the larger mosquitoes we all see) only eat nectar from flowers.

The Bug Bam range has been proven by one of the foremost environmental research labs in the USA to repel for up to 100 hours, and the products range from wristbands (for personal use) to grids, which protect multiple people in an area up to 300 sq. ft. None of the Bug Bam products require the use of sprays, lotions, batteries, smoke, flames or power of any kind (however I did notice a fan, but have not had the chance to test it as yet).

Oh, and I forgot to mention, the Bug Bam range of products are waterproof and sweat-proof and contain ingredients and materials that are EPA approved and FDA approved as food grade. So there?s nothing to worry about if little Johnny decides he wants to swim with his Bug Bam or likes to chew on his cool new wristband.

So there you have it. Play it safe AND smart this bug season. If you really feel that nothing works for you as well as DEET, go right ahead. It IS the Gold Standard (whatever that means). But if you?re the type who wants to look after their health and well being, then a product like Bug Bam will do the job just as well.

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There Are So Many Opportunities for a Fly-Fishing Trip

by Craig Petersen

Almost anywhere that you are in the world provides the kind of the water that makes for a terrific fly-fishing trip. In many areas, there are outfitter companies that will provide a guided tour so that you can find out all about fly-fishing.

Many people are not informed about fly-fishing and still others may not have ever been on a fly- fishing trip. When a fishing experience yields piece, relaxation and permits the vacationer to return to nature’s bountiful beauty, then it can be considered a success.

A fly fishing trip can be educational, lots of fun and can even provide some terrific meals. For these reasons, numerous families pack up what personal items they will need and join up at a recreation camp, cabin or other location to enjoy a week or two of fishing enjoyment.

A fly-fishing trip can be fun for everyone, so it does not matter if you are a child or an older person. Fly-fishing is not very difficult to learn and people of any age can find it a pleasant experience.

Numerous locations offer the opportunity to take a fly fishing trip. In Alaska, for example, the water is chilly yet lovely and full of salmon, rainbow trout and other species of prized fish. The natural beauty that abounds in Alaska is too much to be covered in a single article. Seeing it all for yourself is truly believing. Where else but in Alaska can you stand in the water and watch a great abundance of wildlife run freely on the land?

Actually, Colorado also offers many opportunities for a great fly-fishing trip experience. As in Alaska, Colorado’s waters run a bit cool; but, the scenery is magnificent and there are a number of outfitters that offer gear for any fishing experience you can dream up. Therefore, if you are on a vacation and want to give fly-fishing a try, you don’t have to spend a lot of extra money to purchase the equipment.

Colorado is also well known for superb guided tours. These guides are aware of all the best fishing spots and they make their living from these waters. Many guides will be happy to provide lessons on the tricks and techniques of fly-fishing. Any opportunity to acquire some fly-fishing skills will make the adventure a lot more valuable. Furthermore, these experienced professionals may be able to assist you in taking a prized fish home.

There are so many places to go fly-fishing that it does not really matter where you decide to vacation, Your family can enjoy the time spent together as well as the potential for an occasional wonderfully fresh meal. By fly-fishing, the young ones are able to learn the basics while the adults can get some much-needed rest and relaxation. This may be just what the doctor would order - lots of R and R on a fly-fishing trip while leaving the hustle and bustle of ordinary life behind.

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Land the Big One with the Right Surf Fishing Equipment

by Craig Petersen

Successful surf fishing requires the right combination of skill, weather conditions and surf fishing equipment. Fishermen of all ages can enjoy learning to surf fish, and many locations offer lessons on surf fishing that cover topics such as surf fishing equipment, the fish to be caught, the water conditions and the skill’s basics.

A very important item to be covered during surf fishing lessons is the type of equipment and how it will function best for the ultimate fishing experience. Interestingly, there are few optimal pieces of surf fishing equipment, as everyone tends to have personal favorites.

The fishing rods that seem to work best in the surf are between 10 and 15 feet long. Actually, the very personal choice of rod length depends on what you are most comfortable with.

A variety of tackle such as weights, leaders, hooks and swivels is good to carry for different types of feeders. Some surf fishermen will use triple drop leaders or spider leaders. Others enjoy using the pyramid leader. The use of tackle is a personal preference and it is based on the type of fish that you are hoping to land.

If you are surf fishing in a particular area, many times it is best to catch your bait from that area. For that reason, it is recommended to carry along a couple of smaller rods or nets among your surf fishing equipment in order to reel in the best bait. This is what the fish in the area are used to and what they generally will respond best to.

Also, when surf fishing, landing nets are important to have. Furthermore, it is a good practice to have someone else along to aid you in bringing the big one in with the help of a net. The choice of net to use depends on the types of fish in the area. Certainly, if your prey will be heavy, you will want a heavy-duty net handy.

The type of water that you are fishing in will determine the surf fishing equipment you will need to employ, as surf fishing can be enjoyed in either fresh water or salt water. Also, many fishermen enjoy surf fishing in rivers, lakes and other small bodies of water.

Surf fishing can also be great fun in ocean water, and many people try to surf fish for trophies in salt water. Surf fishing is enjoyable for any age group in the family, since there are species of different sizes to be caught. It always great fun to catch a fish, but there is also much beauty to see while you are wading through the water.

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Fly Fishing in Scotland

by Angus Macleod

One of the planet’s most popular sports is fishing. While many fish for food or profit a great many folk enjoy the sport for the pure pleasure and excitement. Fishing is not just a line, a rod and a reel, no, there are a great many different aspects to the sport and one of the most interesting is the style known as fly fishing. There are a few excellent fly fishing resorts in various parts of the world with Alaska and Scotland being especially noteworthy but even in a small river there could be interesting challenges and excellent sport to be had.

Fly fishing is one of the few sports which is able to be enjoyed by virtually all sectors of society from the very youngest beginner to the full on professional angler who has been perfecting his skills for many years. Another reason why the sport is so incredibly popular is that the best fishing opportunities are usually to be had in areas which have the most spectacular scenery and wildlife. Many who indulge in fly fishing are willing to rise very early in the morning and while this may afford them the best fishing it is also the best time of the day to enjoy the views and the native wildlife.

In Scotland it is not rare to find yourself on the banks of a beautiful river surrounded by picture postcard scenes. Early in the morning it is common to come face to face with deer, stags and other creatures. Otters are creatures of habit and if you happen to be fishing near one of their runs you may witness an otter or two playing in the water (not so good for the fishing but a wonderful sight all the same!).

When fly fishing in Scotland you are able to choose from a number of world class locations which include the famous rivers of the Tay and Spey. Besides these there are plenty of other salmon runs and too many lochs of all different sizes in which to fish for other species such as rainbow and brown trout. grayling and pike.

When planning a vacation in Scotland and if you are planning to spend some time fly fishing it is often best to book a special fly fishing vacation package as most places are for private fishing only. It is possible to purchase a very reasonably priced day permit for the vast majority of sites but it is far better to book a hotel in Scotland that has it’s own fishing rights to a local loch or nearby salmon run or one of the many other packages available. At the very least arrange your fishing before you arrive or enquire where to gain a permit.

Booking a fly fishing vacation can often be a wise decision, especially if taking a vacation as part of a group. Ordinarily some luxuries may well be beyond your budget but the cost is shared in a group. One such essential is the hiring of a local gillie who knows the local waters well enough to provide you with the best locations. A gillie is also likely to impart other information vital to success such as which are the best flies to use in a particular area or which weather and lighting conditions you are fishing in. Such packages take away many of the stresses of organizing such a trip and allow you more time to indulge yourself.

When first starting out in the sport of fly fishing it is incredibly important that you receive sufficient training until you have picked up the basics and avoided some of the pitfalls and bad habits to which many fall prey. When taking a vacation in Scotland you may wish to take a little instruction and if so you should ensure that your chosen instructor is suitably qualified. A.P.G.A.I. (Advanced Pro Game Angling Instructor) qualified instructors are sufficiently experienced to offer virtually all anglers tuition, not only beginners but also seasoned anglers too. By employing the services of such an instructor you are likely to pick up a few tips that will remain with you for life.

One of the most difficult things to decide upon when planning a trip to Scotland is choosing exactly where to base your vacation. Many choose the popular and well known locations along the Tay and Spey while others choose to visit more unusual places such as the isles of Harris or Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Wherever you choose to stay you are almost guaranteed superb fishing, spectacular scenery and a memorable vacation.

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You Need to Go Striped Bass Fishing

by Craig Petersen

Do you enjoy bass fishing? Would fishing for a specific type of bass be a challenge? Do you like eating striped bass? Then, consider going striped bass fishing.

One of the types of fishing that numerous people seem to appreciate is striped bass fishing. Instead of focusing on all types of bass fishing, you concentrate on just one particular type of fish, the striped bass.

Whether you consider yourself a beginner or an experienced and seasoned bass fisherman, you know or will learn soon that it is necessary to use different lures or tackle to catch the varied species of bass. You should understand the differences of tackle required for striped bass fishing from the shore or in the deep sea.

Striped bass fishing’s popularity is because of a number of different reasons. For one thing, stripers can be caught in several ways: by trolling, with a fishing pole, or by casting,

Stripers can mature into very big specimens and they taste really good. Thus, your catch will be a rewarding experience - one that you can share with others.

Stripers are well known to fight hard and don’t give up without a struggle. These traits have lots of appeal to avid fishermen who enjoy a good challenge. Also, when you go striped bass fishing, your trip will be full of excitement; and, it will require the physical exertion you need for your exercise regimen.

There are plenty of websites devoted to striped bass fishing that can be found on the Internet if you desire to learn more about striped bass fishing from experts. These sites enable you to become a member of a group, to read blogs, to ask questions, and to learn from others how best to go about this rewarding fishing endeavor.

A little research can help you avoid mistakes others had to learn the hard way. The writers are passionate about striped bass fishing and they can share their experiences, thus giving you the opportunity to do well. When using these websites, you don’t need to hold back any concern you have about striped bass fishing. Websites are available to assist you in making your new endeavor a great success.

It does not matter whether you want to learn about striped bass fishing in general or which bodies of water will provide a great catch. Doing the research will expose you to tips from people who are in the know. Their advice or fishing lore can guide you so that your future striped bass fishing trips will be memorable occasions for you and your companions. Ready to go striped bash fishing? Let’s do it!

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A Large Variety of Bass Fishing Lures Await Your Choice

by Craig Petersen

The sport of fishing for bass is one of the most singularly appreciated summer sporting activities all across the United States. Amateurs and professionals alike enjoy the competition of bass fishing tournaments as well as simply spending a weekend doing some bass fishing.

Besides being a significant sporting event, bass fishing is considered an art. To be successful, it is essential to be able to choose the best bass fishing lures to use based on the behavior of the fish, water temperature, seasonal movements, and water conditions.

There are plenty of freshwater bass fishing lures that are customarily used in places where bass are known to concentrate. The many kinds of bass include small and large-mouthed bass, peacock, spotted, stripped and white bass. Each one of these types is approached by using a different size and style of lure. Bass fishing lures often include the following:

Swimbaits - these bass baits are streamlined and sectioned throughout the body to produce an almost exact duplicate of a minnow’s swimming movement. They are colored like the bait fish in the area; and, on the whole, the shad colors are the most popular. The swimbait can harbor one single hook, a treble hook or a series of hooks.

Crankbait - these bass fishing lures may be used at any water depth including deep, mid-level, or very close to the surface. Crankbaits may possess a lip or can be lipless, depending on the depth at which they are used and the action that the fisherman desires to get from it. Crankbaits are usually shaped like thick minnows and they cause the fish to become attracted when they move through the water while the lure is being “cranked” or reeled in.

Crankbait - these bass fishing lures may be used at any water depth including deep, mid-level, or very close to the top. Crankbaits come with or without a lip, which is dependent on the depth at which they are used and the action that the fisherman desires to get from them. Crankbaits are most often shaped to resemble thick minnows and they attract fish when they move through the water while the lure is being reeled in.

Jerkbaits - these are also shaped like minnows, but they are usually heavier than swimbaits. However, the jerkbait is not designed for smooth retrieval as the other lures are. Instead, they move irregularly and act as an injured bait fish would when swimming.

Additionally, bass fishing baits may include live bait fish, worms, and trolling baits. More often than not, the bass fishing lures will be brightly colored for fishing in the deeper waters and bright conditions and more naturally colored when fishing in the shallow and cloudier water found close to shore.

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A Fly-Fishing Vacation Can go from a Dream to Reality

by Craig Petersen

Fly fishing is a very old pursuit that has fed and entertained millions of people while it also provides the chance for a much-needed vacation. In today’s busy world, working people have many restrictions and pressures on their time; and, without some much-needed rest and relaxation, even the strongest are capable of getting exhausted.

Nothing provides as restful a vacation as fly fishing. There are no alarm clocks, ringing phones, screaming kids or ungrateful bosses. There is only the water, wildlife, fish and you.

Where else can you stand in the water marveling at the wonderful wildlife surrounding you? What about the sweet smells of the wild flowers or lush trees which are all around you? That sounds so inviting.. When do we leave?

It is possible for the novice or experienced angler to take a fly-fishing vacation in just about any place in the world where there is a body of water. Very often, fly fishing is the favorite method of fishing in rivers, streams, ponds, lakes, and in the oceans. Fishermen at such locales are stalking prey such as carp, trout, catfish, salmon and larger fish.

The fish are fooled by attempting to eat an artificial fly or some other insect on the water’s surface. Even though fly fishing requires some practice, it can yield a very special outdoor vacation along with lots of delicious food.

If you are on a tight time schedule, a guide is recommended. A professional guide can start you off correctly from the first cast of your rod. Should you just need some pointers, there are many fly-fishing guides who will be only too happy to help you. These individuals know all the best spots and water conditions.

There are many fishing spots that offer vacation packages for families wishing to enjoy the outdoors. The options may include homes or cabins, boats, fishing equipment and a host of other things for a fly-fishing vacation. A great thing about a fly-fishing vacation is that it is in the outdoors where there are no food vendors, toy vendors or other distractions vying for all your money. Your children can enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, exploring, and fishing that are free. The fact that such a vacation is reasonably priced, fun and relaxing can make it very enticing.

Many outfitters can be found at lakes, rivers or oceans that are in business to rent fly-fishing equipment. Therefore, you can try it all without the unnecessary expense of buying it. Not everyone will have a need for high end fly-fishing equipment, and renting some can be a great way to see what works for you. Even life vests and boats can usually be rented. There is nothing quite like being immersed in nature’s bounty while providing the food for your family that you caught and prepared. As a result, your kids will always remember the trip; and, that is a promise.

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Texas Saltwater Fishing is a Different Kind of Roundup

by Craig Petersen

Texans say that everything is bigger in the Lone Star State. They tout big beef and great expanses. Being in the largest of the lower forty-eight states, one expects such talk. If you are thinking saltwater fishing, such boasting really does apply. Big fish certainly are there to be caught on a Texas saltwater fishing trip.

For a truly memorable vacation, Texas is known for its great food, big portions, lovely scenery and terrific fishing. You can do well fishing the upper, middle, or lower coast, as Texas saltwater fishing is hotter than a steer looking for water in the summer. This is also where speckled trout and redfish are awesome.

The whole family will enjoy fun in the surf at Galveston and Texas City. There are some great fish to be had and the oyster reefs are just right for wading.

If you want to try something new on your Texas saltwater fishing trip, charter a fishing boat and go on down the Gulf of Mexico. The blue water offers some great fishing. Tuna, amberjack, snapper, ling, sharks, grouper, and bullfish are out there just waiting for your baited hook.

Because there is so much to do on a Texas saltwater fishing trip, it can make a great getaway for just you or for the whole family. For information on where to go Texas saltwater fishing, be sure to contact local charter companies and look at their fishing reports. Also, local guides can fill you in on what is available to do.

Should you want even more information, head to the Internet and round up all of the data available for adventures in Texas saltwater fishing. To locate fishing reports, just go online. You can also locate guide and charter information, gear, articles on saltwater fishing, and whatever else you might wish to know about a Texas fishing trip. The Internet will also have photographs of what you may experience on your trip.

Texas has a very extensive history and there are many museums and historical locations to explore. This state is not only a place for fun and fishing, but it is a place where you can experience some of the things that made our country the amazing place it is.

You can find other attractions such as beaches for swimming, exciting theme parks, home-cooked meals, Tex-Mex food and more cultural experiences than you can imagine. Plan a Texas vacation. Experience everything they have to offer, especially their saltwater fishing.

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Arizona High Altitude Fishing Tips

Fishing has become a highly popular recreational sport in USA. Arizona is like a paradise for fishing enthusiasts because of the existence of a large number of characteristically different lakes in this region. Here are some tips for high altitude fishing in Arizona.The most important thing when indulging in high altitude fishing is the selection of the place for fishing. If you want to capture brown or rainbow trout fishes, it is better to select cold mountain streams.  Generally, one will get fish in all seasons; but summer is the best bet because in winter the water tends to freeze in high altitude lakes and the fish tend to go deep down the lakes. They normally return to top only when the mercury levels rise again. Always remember to obtain fishing permit from Arizona State authorities before you embark on the fishing trip. As there are several high altitude streams in the State of Arizona, one should select a suitable location for fishing based on the budget, interest and season.One must keep in mind that fishing in high altitude lakes is more difficult than in normal lakes because of the rough weather conditions and icy mountainous terrain. So ideally, one should wear suitable clothes and carry appropriate equipment. Specially made fishing apparatus, such as rods, hooks and line, for high altitude fishing are essential requirements when you go to mountain lakes for fishing. The equipment should be thoroughly checked in advance. Always remember to keep the rod pumped and the reel oiled.   Also, keep in mind to take lighting devices like torch which may prove handy in case of emergencies. Other useful items like rubber shoes and sun cream must be carried by the angler. One should always have a good understanding of one’s health when going for high altitude fishing. If you are likely to suffer health problems in high altitude do not hesitate to cancel the fishing adventure. Also, one must stay away from high peaks because of the obvious risk factors. It is always better to keep updated about the weather conditions of that place because changes in weather can be an irksome killjoy while fishing.While fishing, one is positioned best when he or she is as close as possible to the rapids.  Patience, that great virtue in many occasions in life, is a much needed ally in high altitude fishing also. Also one should understand that high altitude lakes in Arizona and elsewhere are usually crystal clear. That means you can see the fish and, more importantly, the fish can see you too. So you should not make any noises even while walking, so that you do not frighten the fish away.

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You Can Really Catch Fish Using the Finest Fishing Vessel Parts

by Craig Petersen

Nowadays, fishing is a very popular sport and it is possible for people of nearly any gender or age to take it up. Often, fishing can be happily experienced by simply standing or sitting on the shore, while casting a baited line and waiting for fish to bite.. Whether or not that is the first fishing experience, a person who appreciates fishing will most likely want to try fishing from a boat at some point.

Many avid anglers have boats made exclusively to be fishing vessels. Such people seem to place all kinds of equipment on their boats. These fishing vessel parts aren’t always required, but they do enhance the fun of fishing.

Just what kind of fishing vessel parts do fishermen prefer? Following is a list of some of the most popular fishing vessel parts and some specifics about them.

To begin with, there are fish finders. These can be very basic and simply show the exact location of fish under water. Generally, fish finders perform by detecting the air in the fishes’ bladders; and, they display where the fish are.

Some advanced examples of fish finders can actually show structures where fish are hiding. They are even able to display schools of “bait fish”. This is valuable information, because these places are where sport fish like to feed.

Sonar is another option found among today’s preferred fishing vessel parts. Actually, sonar is not the same as a fish finder; and, while using it, many items besides fish can be observed under water. Sonar is meant to work when cone-shaped pulses of sound are sent down below the boat using different frequencies many times per second. Then, these sounds will bounce off underwater objects. As a result, sonar can be of great value to fishing vessels, since it can detect underwater cliffs and ledges. Sonar permits anglers to know what the underwater topography is like as well as locations where the fish may be hiding.

Furthermore, Global Positioning Systems (GPSs) have a place among the most popular fishing vessel parts. Many anglers may be familiar with their destination when out on a boat; but, should this not be the case, then a GPS system can be very handy to have along. Using a GPS system permits boaters to explore more underwater areas and to mark their favorite fishing spots, rather than hoping that they can locate those places again at a future time. The GPS gives the boat’s location, so anglers have a way of knowing precisely where they are. Moreover, GPS units can perform using either internal or external antennas.

Since different species of fish prefer to remain at specific depths, depth detectors are also popular fishing vessel parts. Experienced fishermen will generally know which species stay at a certain depth, and depth detectors are great for finding their prey.

Most of these fishing vessel parts can be mounted on the boat and be used very easily. Often, they work well in conjunction with one another. As a matter of fact, a few of these fishing vessel parts can be used simultaneously to assist in tracking locations of fish. As a result, most anglers would want some or all of these enhancements aboard when using a fishing vessel to catch the big one.

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