Hunting dogs are certainly the best possible ally of the hunter, as they sniff and scavenge for prey in the deepest and darkest brush of the forest. There are many different possibilities for a hunting dog type that you can take on your next trip. The type of dog you should take on your hunting trip should be directly related to the type of hunting you are planning on. If you are planning on hunting fur-bearing animals, for example, you would be more satisfied with a hound than you would be with a terrier. Regardless of what dog you choose to take with you on your next hunting trip, you can be sure that you will have made a new friend by the end of the journey.
The most common main category of hunting dogs is the hound. Hounds are actually divided into two categories from there: the sighthound and the scent hound. As their names imply, each sub-category of dog type refers to a certain skill that the dog tends to be more proficient in. Sighthounds, like the Whippet, are adapted to hunting because of their visual acumen. They practice a method that is known as coursing, referring to the notion of spotting the prey from a long distance and following it in a quick pursuit. Scent hounds, like the Coonhound, work by scent rather than sight. They tend to pick up on a trace of the prey from the ground and follow that scent, hopefully to the prey. Scent hounds often work in packs and are regarded as having some of the most sensitive noses of all other dog types.
The next classification of dogs used for hunting is the gun dog. These dogs are used mostly by short range hunters using shotguns. There are three sub-categories of gun dogs: flushing spaniels, pointing breeds and retrievers. Again, their names are reflective of the particular skill that the dog has to offer the hunter. The retrievers, once known as water spaniels, are great for finding and getting shot or killed game for the hunter. If the hunter kills a duck, the retriever heads over to pick it up and brings it back to the hunter. The pointing breed, such as an English setter, tend to "point out" the prey by pointing at upland birds or other upland animals being hunted. The pointing breed of dogs sometimes also help flush the prey out from their hiding spot. The flushing spaniels, such as the English Cocker spaniel, are used to locate and spring the prey for the hunter. They are trained to remain close to the hunter, ensuring an easy kill.
Still another popular type of hunting dog is the terrier. Terriers are used to hunt mammals, for the most part. These animals, such as the Lakeland terrier, are used to locate the actual den of the animal and spring or capture the animal. Some terriers are bred to kill the animal at the animal's den. A large number of terriers are used to hunt what are known as "pest species". The pest species refer to groundhogs, hunted by the Jack Russel terriers, or the badger or fox, hunted by the Fell terrier. The legality of some of these hunts is in question, so you may want to check your local regulations before you set upon and hunt a fox.
There are many particulars that make using hunting dogs a popular option for hunting. Whether you choose a sighthound or a scent hound, you can be assured that your companion hound will be working for you at finding your prey. Using a gun dog can not only provide great companionship, but it can bring prey right to your doorstep and literally take the hunt out of hunting. Terriers not only make a vigorous hunting companion, but they also make for a nice domesticated animal. Make sure that you consider the hunting dog type before you go out on the hunt so that you can bring the best possible breed with you and land the best possible kill for this hunting season.
Jaden Skiver - About the Author:
To read about cougar hunting and against fox hunting, visit the Hunting Info site.
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Enjoy Duck Hunting
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Duck hunting is one of the most popular hunting sports in the world. It is as much a social calling as it is a hunt, in fact, representing a whole set of cultural standards and etiquette rules that many people do not even consider. It has a whole culture all its own, from a proper dress code to duck hunting dogs and assistants. The world of duck hunting is ripe with cultural significance, but is also has a dark side and represents a less than desirable aspect of human nature. Regardless of the point of view, there is something to be learned about duck hunting that may shed some light on either side of the ethical quandary.
Duck hunting is mainly a sporting activity around the world now, as commercial duck hunting has since been banned in most of the developed countries. Duck hunting is, in fact, as old as time itself. There are early indications that ducks and geese were somehow hunted during the Ice Age. Cave drawings indicate that duck hunting was a sound practice early on in human existence, giving way to ducks and swans appearing on cave paintings in Ice Age Europe. There is also evidence of duck hunting in Egypt, as a mural on the tomb of Khum-Hotpe displays a man capturing ducks in a stream. Ducks were also likely hunted by early man in the Americas, as early Peruvian art indicates.
With this international history, duck hunting enjoys a popularity that spreads around the world. It is especially popular in North America, where the largest number of localized ducks can be located. Most ducks use the Mississippi River as a migratory guide, so many duck hunts take place along the river to use it as a guide for finding ducks. Arkansas is a major hotbed of duck hunting, with Stuttgart being considered the "duck hunting capital of the world".
Duck hunting is often considered popular because of its simplicity. The tools of the trade are simplistic enough, from a decoy set to a shotgun and duck call. The essence of duck hunting is based around the trickery of using the decoy and the duck call in tandem to lure the ducks out and into the air towards the decoy. After this takes place, the ducks are in open range for the hunt and the firing begins. These hunts take place around rivers, streams, lakes and any other bodies of water where ducks can be found.
There are many aspects that stand in contrast to duck hunting, of course. Most waterfowl conservation experts agree that the hunting of any type of waterfowl does little to help any situation. In fact, most marsh and wetland areas are shrinking at tremendous rates, giving rise the the criticism that duck hunting effectively diminishes an already diminishing habitat. There are several organizations that constantly spar with duck hunters over this reality.
One organization is the popular Ducks Unlimited. Ducks Unlimited is an international organization that stands as the leader in non-profit marshland protection and the protection of waterfowl. Ducks Unlimited sometimes works with hunters to protect the marshlands and protect the hunter's way of life. The main goal of Ducks Unlimited is the conservation of localized habitats where ducks can be found, enabling hunters to continue protected and logical hunts of ducks and enabling the survival of more ducks by creating better places for them to live.
Still, some hunters ignore this philosophy and have no interest in any protection of habitats. They, instead, pillage the duck areas and hunt ducks that should not be hunted. Duck hunting remains a controversial sport because of this aspect, unfortunately, and will continue to have a dark side as long as hunters remain blissfully ignorant as to the realities of organizations such as Ducks Unlimited. Without the cooperation of hunters and marshland protectors, duck hunts may be a thing of the past.
Jaden Skiver
To read about against fox hunting and turkey hunting tips, visit the Hunting Info site
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Duck hunting is mainly a sporting activity around the world now, as commercial duck hunting has since been banned in most of the developed countries. Duck hunting is, in fact, as old as time itself. There are early indications that ducks and geese were somehow hunted during the Ice Age. Cave drawings indicate that duck hunting was a sound practice early on in human existence, giving way to ducks and swans appearing on cave paintings in Ice Age Europe. There is also evidence of duck hunting in Egypt, as a mural on the tomb of Khum-Hotpe displays a man capturing ducks in a stream. Ducks were also likely hunted by early man in the Americas, as early Peruvian art indicates.
With this international history, duck hunting enjoys a popularity that spreads around the world. It is especially popular in North America, where the largest number of localized ducks can be located. Most ducks use the Mississippi River as a migratory guide, so many duck hunts take place along the river to use it as a guide for finding ducks. Arkansas is a major hotbed of duck hunting, with Stuttgart being considered the "duck hunting capital of the world".
Duck hunting is often considered popular because of its simplicity. The tools of the trade are simplistic enough, from a decoy set to a shotgun and duck call. The essence of duck hunting is based around the trickery of using the decoy and the duck call in tandem to lure the ducks out and into the air towards the decoy. After this takes place, the ducks are in open range for the hunt and the firing begins. These hunts take place around rivers, streams, lakes and any other bodies of water where ducks can be found.
There are many aspects that stand in contrast to duck hunting, of course. Most waterfowl conservation experts agree that the hunting of any type of waterfowl does little to help any situation. In fact, most marsh and wetland areas are shrinking at tremendous rates, giving rise the the criticism that duck hunting effectively diminishes an already diminishing habitat. There are several organizations that constantly spar with duck hunters over this reality.
One organization is the popular Ducks Unlimited. Ducks Unlimited is an international organization that stands as the leader in non-profit marshland protection and the protection of waterfowl. Ducks Unlimited sometimes works with hunters to protect the marshlands and protect the hunter's way of life. The main goal of Ducks Unlimited is the conservation of localized habitats where ducks can be found, enabling hunters to continue protected and logical hunts of ducks and enabling the survival of more ducks by creating better places for them to live.
Still, some hunters ignore this philosophy and have no interest in any protection of habitats. They, instead, pillage the duck areas and hunt ducks that should not be hunted. Duck hunting remains a controversial sport because of this aspect, unfortunately, and will continue to have a dark side as long as hunters remain blissfully ignorant as to the realities of organizations such as Ducks Unlimited. Without the cooperation of hunters and marshland protectors, duck hunts may be a thing of the past.
Jaden Skiver
To read about against fox hunting and turkey hunting tips, visit the Hunting Info site
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Bow Hunting - New Age Robin Hood?
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Bow hunting is considered to be a manly sport, but there are a number of women who take part in bow hunting and have completely changed the levels of the game. People learn how to control their hunt with bow hunting and learn new things regarding tuning in to themselves and using their bodily capacity in order to improve at the hunt. Without the protection of a firearm, people often find it dangerous and psychologically challenging to bow hunt and are often intimidated.
Those who seek old fashioned adventure will not fail to take to bow hunting and those who are already good at it will probably want to know about all the new additions that have been made to the sport. Breaking the safety zone is an extremely important part of bow hunting that all hunters should be aware of. This is done in order to shoot the prey easily. Traditionally, the hunters who used firearms had relative safety as they could stay at a good distance from the prey, whereas a bow hunter needs to creep up to the prey and enter the danger zone with the animal. In the danger zone, the animal can attack or charge at any moment. Due to this, the hunter needs to be attentive at all times.
With the new additions to bow hunting, a lot of the guesswork that comes with the hunt has been removed. Although a lot of traditional bow hunters are against the new technologies such as night vision and GPS sensors, there are many hunters who welcome the ally as they embark on their adventure and challenge of bow hunting. There are two schools of thought that hunters follow. But all the hunters have only one goal in mind irrespective of whether they are old school hunters or prefer the new technologies. Ultimately every hunter wants to enjoy his or her hunt and bring the prey down.
There are a number of hunts that people like to go on. Big game hunts have gained a lot of popularity and they usually include wolves, elk, caribou, mountain lions and mountain goats. There are many ambitious hunters who tend to bow hunt after bears. These days, the demand for bear hunting has increased, especially hunts related to archery. Like people like to run with bulls, bear hunting is also considered to give a rush to the hunter that delivers the kind of thrill that few other activities can give.
A lot of people prefer to book bow hunting excursions or trips with different trip leading companies. Usually these companies take a certain group of hunters into a specific area that is known to have a good deal of the required animals. Usually the hunting company brings along a guide who monitors all the action from a particular position and offers his tips and expertise to the hunters of the party. These trips depend greatly on the seasonal conditions so all those who seek a bow hunting experience should ensure that they pay attention to which season is top for hunting.
Usually, the hunting guide takes her or his party to an area where the density of the required animal is the highest. They then proceed to set up the camp and start looking out for baiting locations. After the bait is placed in different locations, the area where the hunt should take place is designated. While the hunters set up all their apparatus, the guid typically goes through a couple of safety techniques and ground rules. After a while the animals will begin appearing and the hunt can start.
Download Abhishek's FREE 66 Pages Ebook, "How To Play And Enjoy Hunting Video Games" from his website http://www.Hunting-Guru.com/100/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.
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Those who seek old fashioned adventure will not fail to take to bow hunting and those who are already good at it will probably want to know about all the new additions that have been made to the sport. Breaking the safety zone is an extremely important part of bow hunting that all hunters should be aware of. This is done in order to shoot the prey easily. Traditionally, the hunters who used firearms had relative safety as they could stay at a good distance from the prey, whereas a bow hunter needs to creep up to the prey and enter the danger zone with the animal. In the danger zone, the animal can attack or charge at any moment. Due to this, the hunter needs to be attentive at all times.
With the new additions to bow hunting, a lot of the guesswork that comes with the hunt has been removed. Although a lot of traditional bow hunters are against the new technologies such as night vision and GPS sensors, there are many hunters who welcome the ally as they embark on their adventure and challenge of bow hunting. There are two schools of thought that hunters follow. But all the hunters have only one goal in mind irrespective of whether they are old school hunters or prefer the new technologies. Ultimately every hunter wants to enjoy his or her hunt and bring the prey down.
There are a number of hunts that people like to go on. Big game hunts have gained a lot of popularity and they usually include wolves, elk, caribou, mountain lions and mountain goats. There are many ambitious hunters who tend to bow hunt after bears. These days, the demand for bear hunting has increased, especially hunts related to archery. Like people like to run with bulls, bear hunting is also considered to give a rush to the hunter that delivers the kind of thrill that few other activities can give.
A lot of people prefer to book bow hunting excursions or trips with different trip leading companies. Usually these companies take a certain group of hunters into a specific area that is known to have a good deal of the required animals. Usually the hunting company brings along a guide who monitors all the action from a particular position and offers his tips and expertise to the hunters of the party. These trips depend greatly on the seasonal conditions so all those who seek a bow hunting experience should ensure that they pay attention to which season is top for hunting.
Usually, the hunting guide takes her or his party to an area where the density of the required animal is the highest. They then proceed to set up the camp and start looking out for baiting locations. After the bait is placed in different locations, the area where the hunt should take place is designated. While the hunters set up all their apparatus, the guid typically goes through a couple of safety techniques and ground rules. After a while the animals will begin appearing and the hunt can start.
Download Abhishek's FREE 66 Pages Ebook, "How To Play And Enjoy Hunting Video Games" from his website http://www.Hunting-Guru.com/100/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.
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Deer Hunting - Why You Should Hunt the Rut!
Friday, November 20, 2009
By Troy A. Edwards
Most hunters accept the fact that the easiest time to kill a whitetail buck is throughout the rut. The reason for this is a consequence of the males being more likely to reduce their level of alertness whilst competing for the best does. This therefore is then the best period to go out to bag a buck, and add some meat to the freezer.
The rut starts with the males scraping the ground in close proximity to a branch of a tree all over their bit of forest or grassland. It is basically a scratch in the ground that should be seen by the rest of the males in the particular part of the woods or plains. The reason for this is in order to decide which male is the dominant male in that area. As the first male has scented the scratch in the ground (using his many glands for this purpose), the rest of the males will start to appear and begin the process of enlarging the scrape and adding their scent to the spot.
You'd think that, as you find a large scrape mark you'd think it could be a good spot to set up a stand and pass the time until the next bold male to stroll over. Sadly for us, bucks usually only wander through and leave their scents at night - which is unfortunate but is the most usual occurrence.
As the season progresses the males will begin the process of beefing up their strength by brushing and pushing their heads against trees and banks. This action helps and aids the process to scrape off the velvet-like material from their soon-to-be weapons, preparing them for the coming fights. The rest of the whitetail deer ought to see these signals, and also during this stage they begin to urinate in the marks. This therefore is without doubt the best time to be on the hunt for whitetail deer as at this moment their guard is down; they're preoccupied on seeking females as opposed to being only concerned with being attacked.
The males will carry on to add their scent in scrape marks and leave their smell all over until a doe urinate in the scratch, the reason for this is it enables the winner to know she is ready to mate. Of course he ought to then have a look at these marks as often as he can.
It's usually best practice to be out and about hunting for longer periods of time once the rut starts - the moment you begin to stumble upon the markings described above in the area. This process ought to improve your chances of spotting a great big deer while his alertness level is reduced. One good method to find out if rutting season is underway is to take a look at the hind legs of a buck. He has tarsal scent sacks there (that he urinates on) also otherwise known as hawks, and they tend to go darker throughout the rut.
The primary factor why the rut is the best time for hunting is a consequence of the males being distracted. They are concerned primarily on finding a doe and fighting with other bucks, giving the hunter a significantly bigger likelihood of bringing home a buck than at the other times of the season.
If you're eager to raise your likelihood of shooting a trophy to be proud of this time around, you should be out in the woods as long as you possibly can. Also, try to keep in your thoughts that if you're out to harvest a monster buck, don't shoot the first one that crosses your path! It may seem obvious, but I think we've all done it! When you've been out there for the best part of a day you can easily settle for less. In a lot of situations this actually is what prevents us bringing back a mature male at all, this is a consequence of the more mature deer will most likely stay hidden in undergrowth or tall grass longer than younger deer and probably be spooked by the attack on the other deer.
If you like this article, be sure to check out http://www.the-hunting-guide.com
I'm Troy Edwards and I runs this site for trophy deer hunters, I publish new strategies and tips all the time so come and check it out!
http://www.the-hunting-guide.com
Labels:
Most hunters accept the fact that the easiest time to kill a whitetail buck is throughout the rut. The reason for this is a consequence of the males being more likely to reduce their level of alertness whilst competing for the best does. This therefore is then the best period to go out to bag a buck, and add some meat to the freezer.
The rut starts with the males scraping the ground in close proximity to a branch of a tree all over their bit of forest or grassland. It is basically a scratch in the ground that should be seen by the rest of the males in the particular part of the woods or plains. The reason for this is in order to decide which male is the dominant male in that area. As the first male has scented the scratch in the ground (using his many glands for this purpose), the rest of the males will start to appear and begin the process of enlarging the scrape and adding their scent to the spot.
You'd think that, as you find a large scrape mark you'd think it could be a good spot to set up a stand and pass the time until the next bold male to stroll over. Sadly for us, bucks usually only wander through and leave their scents at night - which is unfortunate but is the most usual occurrence.
As the season progresses the males will begin the process of beefing up their strength by brushing and pushing their heads against trees and banks. This action helps and aids the process to scrape off the velvet-like material from their soon-to-be weapons, preparing them for the coming fights. The rest of the whitetail deer ought to see these signals, and also during this stage they begin to urinate in the marks. This therefore is without doubt the best time to be on the hunt for whitetail deer as at this moment their guard is down; they're preoccupied on seeking females as opposed to being only concerned with being attacked.
The males will carry on to add their scent in scrape marks and leave their smell all over until a doe urinate in the scratch, the reason for this is it enables the winner to know she is ready to mate. Of course he ought to then have a look at these marks as often as he can.
It's usually best practice to be out and about hunting for longer periods of time once the rut starts - the moment you begin to stumble upon the markings described above in the area. This process ought to improve your chances of spotting a great big deer while his alertness level is reduced. One good method to find out if rutting season is underway is to take a look at the hind legs of a buck. He has tarsal scent sacks there (that he urinates on) also otherwise known as hawks, and they tend to go darker throughout the rut.
The primary factor why the rut is the best time for hunting is a consequence of the males being distracted. They are concerned primarily on finding a doe and fighting with other bucks, giving the hunter a significantly bigger likelihood of bringing home a buck than at the other times of the season.
If you're eager to raise your likelihood of shooting a trophy to be proud of this time around, you should be out in the woods as long as you possibly can. Also, try to keep in your thoughts that if you're out to harvest a monster buck, don't shoot the first one that crosses your path! It may seem obvious, but I think we've all done it! When you've been out there for the best part of a day you can easily settle for less. In a lot of situations this actually is what prevents us bringing back a mature male at all, this is a consequence of the more mature deer will most likely stay hidden in undergrowth or tall grass longer than younger deer and probably be spooked by the attack on the other deer.
If you like this article, be sure to check out http://www.the-hunting-guide.com
I'm Troy Edwards and I runs this site for trophy deer hunters, I publish new strategies and tips all the time so come and check it out!
http://www.the-hunting-guide.com
Labels:
How to Choose the Best Hunting Ground Blind
Thursday, November 19, 2009
by: Jesse K. Taylor
With all the different kinds of ground blinds out there, choosing the one that's right for you is a shot in the dark unless you know beforehand what to look for. The two most popular types of ground blinds out there right now are hub style and pop up style. A chair blind is your third option, in a somewhat different category than the other two styles. In order to decide which type is best for you, first you need a sense of what to look for overall in a hunting blind. Then we'll cover the pros and cons for each type of blind. Depending on your hunting strategy and personal preference, one of these types may fit your needs better than the others.
One of the first questions to consider when it comes to looking for a hunting blind is how portable it is. If you drive out to your site, the size and weight of your blind may not be an issue. On the other hand, if you hike several miles out to your lucky spot, you're going to need a lightweight folding frame. The longer you carry your blind, the heavier it's going to feel—not to mention the extra weight of your gun or bow, shooting chair, and other equipment you have to haul. Look for a blind with carrying straps that weighs under 20 pounds.
The camo pattern is also a major consideration. Pick the pattern that blends in best in the areas you typically hunt. You can always add natural cover to the stubble straps as well. Another feature to look at is the dimensions of each blind. Can you sit comfortably inside without brushing your head on the top? Is there enough room for the number of hunters who will be using it? There should also be enough space to handle your firearm or crossbow. If you can't get off a good shot because you're cramped for space, then the hunting blind becomes a weakness instead of an advantage.
The next question to consider is what type of features you want. The list of available features is endless, but here's a look at a few of the more common and practical ones.
Shoot-Through Mesh – Great for added concealment. If the mesh is camouflage, even better.
Waterproof – One of the major benefits of commercial blinds over natural cover. Stay dry and warm even in bad weather.
Scent Proof – Keep a low profile with scent-masking carbon protection.
Wind-resistant – Keep your blind from flapping in the wind and alerting game of your presence. Features such as tie-down flaps and stakes help to anchor your blind in place.
Blackout Interior – A dark interior swallows your shadow and makes it harder for game to spot you inside the blind.
Stubble Straps – Add natural cover to your blind for the ultimate camouflage protection.
Now let's take a look at the pros and cons for each blind type.
The hub style blind is one of the most popular choices for hunters. It gives you the most room to move around, is tall enough to sit comfortably in, and is quick and easy to set up and take down. It also has the best visibility, with full windows on all sides. On the downside, its large size may limit where you can set up your blind and it may stand out more in locations with little natural cover.
The pop up blind takes up less space than the hub, but that also means you have less room to move around inside. Like the hub style, you are able to look out and shoot on all four sides. Setup is quick and easy. Takedown can be a little tricky to fold the hoop frames, but once you get the hang of it, you can fold it up in no time.
The chair blind is a different animal altogether. Its best asset is the convenience of a blind and chair in one. It's also one of the easiest types to set up and take down. The downside is that you can't move around inside and you can only see and shoot to the front or side, so if the game sneaks up behind you, you're out of luck.
All three types of blinds have their advantages and disadvantages. One type of blind may work well for one hunter but create problems for another hunter. When it comes down to it, your budget and your style of hunting will ultimately determine which type of blind works best for you.
About The Author
Copyright 2009 KillZone Hunting Outfitters. Gear up for the season with hub style ground blinds, pop up blinds, chair blinds, and more from KillZone Hunting Outfitters at http://www.killzonehunting.com.
KillZone is proud to offer affordable, high quality outdoor products for the hunting enthusiast. Free shipping on all orders!
Labels:
With all the different kinds of ground blinds out there, choosing the one that's right for you is a shot in the dark unless you know beforehand what to look for. The two most popular types of ground blinds out there right now are hub style and pop up style. A chair blind is your third option, in a somewhat different category than the other two styles. In order to decide which type is best for you, first you need a sense of what to look for overall in a hunting blind. Then we'll cover the pros and cons for each type of blind. Depending on your hunting strategy and personal preference, one of these types may fit your needs better than the others.
One of the first questions to consider when it comes to looking for a hunting blind is how portable it is. If you drive out to your site, the size and weight of your blind may not be an issue. On the other hand, if you hike several miles out to your lucky spot, you're going to need a lightweight folding frame. The longer you carry your blind, the heavier it's going to feel—not to mention the extra weight of your gun or bow, shooting chair, and other equipment you have to haul. Look for a blind with carrying straps that weighs under 20 pounds.
The camo pattern is also a major consideration. Pick the pattern that blends in best in the areas you typically hunt. You can always add natural cover to the stubble straps as well. Another feature to look at is the dimensions of each blind. Can you sit comfortably inside without brushing your head on the top? Is there enough room for the number of hunters who will be using it? There should also be enough space to handle your firearm or crossbow. If you can't get off a good shot because you're cramped for space, then the hunting blind becomes a weakness instead of an advantage.
The next question to consider is what type of features you want. The list of available features is endless, but here's a look at a few of the more common and practical ones.
Shoot-Through Mesh – Great for added concealment. If the mesh is camouflage, even better.
Waterproof – One of the major benefits of commercial blinds over natural cover. Stay dry and warm even in bad weather.
Scent Proof – Keep a low profile with scent-masking carbon protection.
Wind-resistant – Keep your blind from flapping in the wind and alerting game of your presence. Features such as tie-down flaps and stakes help to anchor your blind in place.
Blackout Interior – A dark interior swallows your shadow and makes it harder for game to spot you inside the blind.
Stubble Straps – Add natural cover to your blind for the ultimate camouflage protection.
Now let's take a look at the pros and cons for each blind type.
The hub style blind is one of the most popular choices for hunters. It gives you the most room to move around, is tall enough to sit comfortably in, and is quick and easy to set up and take down. It also has the best visibility, with full windows on all sides. On the downside, its large size may limit where you can set up your blind and it may stand out more in locations with little natural cover.
The pop up blind takes up less space than the hub, but that also means you have less room to move around inside. Like the hub style, you are able to look out and shoot on all four sides. Setup is quick and easy. Takedown can be a little tricky to fold the hoop frames, but once you get the hang of it, you can fold it up in no time.
The chair blind is a different animal altogether. Its best asset is the convenience of a blind and chair in one. It's also one of the easiest types to set up and take down. The downside is that you can't move around inside and you can only see and shoot to the front or side, so if the game sneaks up behind you, you're out of luck.
All three types of blinds have their advantages and disadvantages. One type of blind may work well for one hunter but create problems for another hunter. When it comes down to it, your budget and your style of hunting will ultimately determine which type of blind works best for you.
About The Author
Copyright 2009 KillZone Hunting Outfitters. Gear up for the season with hub style ground blinds, pop up blinds, chair blinds, and more from KillZone Hunting Outfitters at http://www.killzonehunting.com.
KillZone is proud to offer affordable, high quality outdoor products for the hunting enthusiast. Free shipping on all orders!
Labels:
Archery, Hunting and Fishing: Conserving Our World and Ourselves
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
What do hunting and fishing have to do with conservation? Everything. Without the efforts of hunters and anglers, our wildlife and wild places would be in a state of trouble. Hunting and fishing are more than mere sports or pastimes, however, and are even more than a conservation effort. The meaning and significance of life and our humanity are embodied in archery, fishing and hunting.
It's not easy being the "environment." It receives more attention than Paris Hilton in a prison cell. Everyone isall about "saving" the environment, and we're all aware of the powerful cultural movement focused on living "green" and being "environmentally - friendly."
Cultural elites and politicians tell us that if we ride our bikes more, take the bus, use different light bulbs, only then will we become truly "green" and a friend of the earth.
Yet changing our driving habits or riding our bikes simply isn't practical or convenient. We care about our world but we feel left out in the cold, wondering, "What can I do to help? None of that other stuff is for me."
Chances are, if you're reading this you're into archery, fishing and/or hunting. And if you're a lover of archery, fishing or hunting - or all three - and if you have a desire to keep the "environment" in good working condition, just keep doing what you're doing.
But if you're on the fence about archery, fishing and hunting, keep an open mind and read on to find out why we do what we do.
Naturally (no pun intended), we in the archery, fishing and hunting world have a vested interest in keeping our planet's resources and wildlife in top condition. As Canadian biologist and philosopher Shane Mahoney said, "Hunters and fishermen are the piston that drives the conservation engine. If you take hunting and fishing out of the equation, the whole (wildlife management) effort collapses."
So it's no surprise that sportsmen - those involved in archery, fishing and hunting - provide over $1 billion annually towards conservation efforts. It's no surprise that sportsmen have paid several billion dollars over the last 70-80 years on self-imposed excise taxes on firearms, ammunition and certain archery and fishing equipment.
It's no surprise that through hunting and fishing conservation efforts, wildlife populations and habitats flourish. There are now over 18 million white-tailed deer in the U.S. when there used to be less than half-a- million around 1900. Today's elk population is around 800,000 when in 1917 it was a mere 41,000.
And is it surprising that a handful of African nations are now using conservation-hunting methods to increase the populations of endangered animals like elephants and black and white rhinos? And is it surprising that the polar bear population in northern Canada has increased because of 30-some years of conservation-hunting?
For those of us actively engaged in archery, fishing and hunting, no, we are not surprised. But listing the many and wonderful benefits of archery, fishing and hunting doesn't explain the "why" behind it all - especially to those on the fence about the issue. Why do we hunt? Why do we fish? The answer rests in another kind of conservation - the conservation of meaning and humanity.
Many think that by changing driving habits and using renewable energy that we're being "natural" or somehow experiencing the natural world. But hunters and fishermen possess a deep and intense connection with our world that goes beyond any "green" campaign. Why? Because hunters and fishermen actually come into physical contact with the world; they don't experience it through a screen in their living room. When was the last time you saw a politician or celebrity out in the wilderness hunting or fishing?
To quote Mahoney, "Hunting is a love affair." It is the passionate interaction between two forces of the natural world - man and wild. The two come together to create the essence of being, the essence of life and meaning.
Continues Mahoney, "Hunting is an immersion; a drowning inconnectedness that squanders pride and privilege; the true hunter is the humble man, the enthralled child and theknowing prince... Hunting is a cataclysm of inward progress. We hunt for spiritual reasons; we hunt to find inner peace; we hunt to understand the world...The true hunter is both the alert and meditative man. Thought and action combined in purpose; a hymn for the unity of world and self."
This may be a bit romantic for some of you, but hunting and fishing are much more than pastimes and even a conservation method. Hunting and fishing embody an intrinsic understanding of life. We conserve ourselves, as well as our world, through hunting, fishing and archery.
In a world where "reality" exists in an XBOX, archery, fishing and hunting reconnect us to what makes us human; to what makes life, in part, meaningful and purposeful. In the field, we experience sacrifice, life and passion. As Dr. Randall L. Eaton writes, "that is why hunters have been and still are, by far, the foremost conservationistsof wildlife and wild places, to the benefit of everyone."
Over the last ten years, the number of adult hunters has dropped by nearly two million and the number of adult anglers has dropped more than five million. These declining numbers mean less money for the conservation of wildlife and wild places, but it also signifies the continuing distance we put between ourselves and the natural world.
So as you sit at your computer, ask yourself, "Why do I love archery, fishing and hunting?" And if you're not into archery, fishing and hunting, ask yourself, "Why am I not a lover of archery, fishing and hunting?"
Trevor Sides writes for American Hunting Club Live, the first hunting video broadcast site on the web. Learn from and/or broadcast your own hunting tips and hunting videos. American Hunting Club Live takes the YouTube format for hunters to another level. Hosted by world class athlete and Olympic Gold Medalist Casey FitzRandolph, we offer high quality full screen video for our members. What are you waiting for? Visit your video broadcast site now.
http://www.americanhuntingclublive.com
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It's not easy being the "environment." It receives more attention than Paris Hilton in a prison cell. Everyone isall about "saving" the environment, and we're all aware of the powerful cultural movement focused on living "green" and being "environmentally - friendly."
Cultural elites and politicians tell us that if we ride our bikes more, take the bus, use different light bulbs, only then will we become truly "green" and a friend of the earth.
Yet changing our driving habits or riding our bikes simply isn't practical or convenient. We care about our world but we feel left out in the cold, wondering, "What can I do to help? None of that other stuff is for me."
Chances are, if you're reading this you're into archery, fishing and/or hunting. And if you're a lover of archery, fishing or hunting - or all three - and if you have a desire to keep the "environment" in good working condition, just keep doing what you're doing.
But if you're on the fence about archery, fishing and hunting, keep an open mind and read on to find out why we do what we do.
Naturally (no pun intended), we in the archery, fishing and hunting world have a vested interest in keeping our planet's resources and wildlife in top condition. As Canadian biologist and philosopher Shane Mahoney said, "Hunters and fishermen are the piston that drives the conservation engine. If you take hunting and fishing out of the equation, the whole (wildlife management) effort collapses."
So it's no surprise that sportsmen - those involved in archery, fishing and hunting - provide over $1 billion annually towards conservation efforts. It's no surprise that sportsmen have paid several billion dollars over the last 70-80 years on self-imposed excise taxes on firearms, ammunition and certain archery and fishing equipment.
It's no surprise that through hunting and fishing conservation efforts, wildlife populations and habitats flourish. There are now over 18 million white-tailed deer in the U.S. when there used to be less than half-a- million around 1900. Today's elk population is around 800,000 when in 1917 it was a mere 41,000.
And is it surprising that a handful of African nations are now using conservation-hunting methods to increase the populations of endangered animals like elephants and black and white rhinos? And is it surprising that the polar bear population in northern Canada has increased because of 30-some years of conservation-hunting?
For those of us actively engaged in archery, fishing and hunting, no, we are not surprised. But listing the many and wonderful benefits of archery, fishing and hunting doesn't explain the "why" behind it all - especially to those on the fence about the issue. Why do we hunt? Why do we fish? The answer rests in another kind of conservation - the conservation of meaning and humanity.
Many think that by changing driving habits and using renewable energy that we're being "natural" or somehow experiencing the natural world. But hunters and fishermen possess a deep and intense connection with our world that goes beyond any "green" campaign. Why? Because hunters and fishermen actually come into physical contact with the world; they don't experience it through a screen in their living room. When was the last time you saw a politician or celebrity out in the wilderness hunting or fishing?
To quote Mahoney, "Hunting is a love affair." It is the passionate interaction between two forces of the natural world - man and wild. The two come together to create the essence of being, the essence of life and meaning.
Continues Mahoney, "Hunting is an immersion; a drowning inconnectedness that squanders pride and privilege; the true hunter is the humble man, the enthralled child and theknowing prince... Hunting is a cataclysm of inward progress. We hunt for spiritual reasons; we hunt to find inner peace; we hunt to understand the world...The true hunter is both the alert and meditative man. Thought and action combined in purpose; a hymn for the unity of world and self."
This may be a bit romantic for some of you, but hunting and fishing are much more than pastimes and even a conservation method. Hunting and fishing embody an intrinsic understanding of life. We conserve ourselves, as well as our world, through hunting, fishing and archery.
In a world where "reality" exists in an XBOX, archery, fishing and hunting reconnect us to what makes us human; to what makes life, in part, meaningful and purposeful. In the field, we experience sacrifice, life and passion. As Dr. Randall L. Eaton writes, "that is why hunters have been and still are, by far, the foremost conservationistsof wildlife and wild places, to the benefit of everyone."
Over the last ten years, the number of adult hunters has dropped by nearly two million and the number of adult anglers has dropped more than five million. These declining numbers mean less money for the conservation of wildlife and wild places, but it also signifies the continuing distance we put between ourselves and the natural world.
So as you sit at your computer, ask yourself, "Why do I love archery, fishing and hunting?" And if you're not into archery, fishing and hunting, ask yourself, "Why am I not a lover of archery, fishing and hunting?"
Trevor Sides writes for American Hunting Club Live, the first hunting video broadcast site on the web. Learn from and/or broadcast your own hunting tips and hunting videos. American Hunting Club Live takes the YouTube format for hunters to another level. Hosted by world class athlete and Olympic Gold Medalist Casey FitzRandolph, we offer high quality full screen video for our members. What are you waiting for? Visit your video broadcast site now.
http://www.americanhuntingclublive.com
Labels:
Goose hunting, a sport for all seasons
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Among the bird hunting genres, goose hunting occupies a special place providing a real challenge to hunting enthusiasts fed up with duck or pheasant hunting. Although hunting for geese is a popular practice in North America mainly, it is surprisingly bellow such types of hunting as raccoon or deer hunting. But goose hunting does have its fans, especially in the northern states of the U.S and Canada, and they are not few. So what stops goose hunting from becoming a leader among the hunting varieties of Americans?
One hint towards a relevant answer on the issue can be found in the goose’s anatomical structure. Even though it is a rather large creature, it has a very small area of vulnerability or vital zone. This means that shooting a goose anywhere outside that area will most often result in the bird’s escape. It is estimated that the area of vulnerability is only one tenth of the bird’s total size. As a result, you are forced to give your best shot every time, and even that can’t always get you the success you hope for. On the other hand, luck is an important companion of any hunter and without it hunting would be like a complicated surgery rather than a fun activity. Not knowing if you’re going to bring the goose down with the first shot, the second, the third or at all results in an array of emotions gathered under one concept, thrill.
Calling is a fundamental component of a hunting process and requires much practice before it can be mastered. But after you’ve managed to fully understand how and when to use callers and decoys you will have an eventful hunt every time. It is advisable that you have a variety of decoys of different shapes, sizes and colors to use in every circumstance and a diverse set of callers, for every situation. Knowing if a particular flock of geese is susceptible to calling depends on the way the birds fly; if the geese are flying low, breaking up in formation, gaining and then quickly losing altitude, flying one direction and then changing direction, flying with a slow wing beet, or simply towards your location, you should consider them callable and start trying to decoy them in. If the birds are coming at you simply give them a cluck or two to get their attention and let the decoys do the work. If the above are not met then you shouldn’t even bother to try and lure them as there is a fair chance all of your signals will be ignored.
Goose hunting can prove more difficult to practice than other types of hunting but the reword is well worth the effort. Few things can match the nervous anxiety of placing a decoy and waiting for a goose to come, as well as seeing as one of your shots brings down such a wonderful bird. However, like almost every domain it requires much patience and practice before becoming an expert at it. Until then, grab that gun, put on your hunting cap and go have fun!
Razvan Marian Jr. is a goose hunting enthusiast and has plenty of years of experience in the field of goose hunts. He is now sharing his goose hunting tips with others at www.goosehuntinginfo.com.
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One hint towards a relevant answer on the issue can be found in the goose’s anatomical structure. Even though it is a rather large creature, it has a very small area of vulnerability or vital zone. This means that shooting a goose anywhere outside that area will most often result in the bird’s escape. It is estimated that the area of vulnerability is only one tenth of the bird’s total size. As a result, you are forced to give your best shot every time, and even that can’t always get you the success you hope for. On the other hand, luck is an important companion of any hunter and without it hunting would be like a complicated surgery rather than a fun activity. Not knowing if you’re going to bring the goose down with the first shot, the second, the third or at all results in an array of emotions gathered under one concept, thrill.
Calling is a fundamental component of a hunting process and requires much practice before it can be mastered. But after you’ve managed to fully understand how and when to use callers and decoys you will have an eventful hunt every time. It is advisable that you have a variety of decoys of different shapes, sizes and colors to use in every circumstance and a diverse set of callers, for every situation. Knowing if a particular flock of geese is susceptible to calling depends on the way the birds fly; if the geese are flying low, breaking up in formation, gaining and then quickly losing altitude, flying one direction and then changing direction, flying with a slow wing beet, or simply towards your location, you should consider them callable and start trying to decoy them in. If the birds are coming at you simply give them a cluck or two to get their attention and let the decoys do the work. If the above are not met then you shouldn’t even bother to try and lure them as there is a fair chance all of your signals will be ignored.
Goose hunting can prove more difficult to practice than other types of hunting but the reword is well worth the effort. Few things can match the nervous anxiety of placing a decoy and waiting for a goose to come, as well as seeing as one of your shots brings down such a wonderful bird. However, like almost every domain it requires much patience and practice before becoming an expert at it. Until then, grab that gun, put on your hunting cap and go have fun!
Razvan Marian Jr. is a goose hunting enthusiast and has plenty of years of experience in the field of goose hunts. He is now sharing his goose hunting tips with others at www.goosehuntinginfo.com.
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