Hunting & Fishing Tips, Tricks, and Questions - Forum - FieldandStreamTeam2024-03-29T11:26:16Zhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/feed/category/Hunting+%26+Fishing+Tips%2C+Tricks%2C+and+QuestionsSmall game huntinghttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/small-game-hunting2019-02-17T16:51:22.000Z2019-02-17T16:51:22.000ZMichael Wrighthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/MichaelWright<div>Any rabbit and/or squirrel hunters out there? Advice for a newbie?</div>Place to take Dad Fishinghttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/place-to-take-dad-fishing2018-09-11T19:38:22.000Z2018-09-11T19:38:22.000ZScott Dempseyhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ScottDempsey<div><p>I am looking for a place for my brothers and I to take my dad fishing close to Harrison Michigan. He can't really travel much further than Houghton lake and we haven't had much success there. Also the lake has been too low for our boat. The four of us will be fishing out of a 20' Sea Ray. Any other lakes in that area that are easy to get into and fish?</p></div>Spring Turkey Applications until Feb. 1https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/spring-turkey-applications-until-feb-12018-01-16T15:31:47.000Z2018-01-16T15:31:47.000ZChris Sarsfieldhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChrisSarsfield<div><p>Don't forget to apply for the lottery if you don't hunt the 234 May hunt.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10363_10856---,00.html#turkey" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10363_10856---,00.html#turkey</a></p>
</div>Opening Dayhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/opening-day-12017-11-14T16:24:57.000Z2017-11-14T16:24:57.000ZSteve Buchanhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/SteveBuchan<div><p>Let the herald's trumpet sound</p><p>Sally forth brave Nimrod</p><p>To fill the larder</p><p>To fill the larder</p><p></p><p><img src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSRVOCxvBDMyJvjaYeAC4Z2RhTWSE9xRYHfjvmUlU4R7TdvWaI7Rw" alt="Image result for deer"/></p></div>Out of State Whitetail - 2017 Goalshttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/out-of-state-whitetail-2017-dreams2017-05-02T03:25:23.000Z2017-05-02T03:25:23.000ZDan Stewarthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/DanStewart<div><p>Thinking of possibly going out of state for whitetails this year depending on my guide schedule for salmon and if I buy a house or not this year. Hoping to go somewhere in September possibly. I am not looking to spend a ton of money so any of high priced big whitetail states are out of the question. I am thinking either Montana or Kentucky but I am open to some other ideas. I wouldn't mind Ohio but it sounds like the public land is kind of like Michigan state land and I definitely can't afford private leases down there. I need to go somewhere where I can buy a license over the counter because it probably will be a last minute decision if I go or not. </p><p></p><p>Where has everyone hunted before out of state? Would you recommend it? Anyone been to Kentucky or Montana?</p><p></p><p>Thanks for any advice</p><p></p><p>Btw, for anyone fishing the Detroit, Walleye fishing has been pretty good lately. Whenever we can stay vertical we have been on fire. However, we are starting to see silver bass. Hoping they slow down a little bit so we can still get to the walleye for some time. Hope everyone is having a great spring</p></div>Turkey Tag Question? Can I switch to 234?https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/turkey-tag-question-can-i-switch-to-2342017-03-24T14:13:15.000Z2017-03-24T14:13:15.000ZChris Sarsfieldhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChrisSarsfield<div><p>I drew for the second week private land hunt in section K (I think).  My brother is coming in town the days I planned to be up  north.  Can I not use my tag or turn it in for a May 234 tag?  I was looking online and got frustrated with the DNR site.</p>
</div>8 Elements of Fly Design to Follow for Imitating Trout Food Sourceshttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/8-elements-of-fly-design-to-follow-for-imitating-trout-food-sourc2017-02-21T16:55:31.000Z2017-02-21T16:55:31.000ZChris Sarsfieldhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChrisSarsfield<div><p>I don't have an affiliation with this site other than I tend to catch some great blog posts.  Here's a good article on tying flies where it's broken down into 8 essential points.  </p>
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<p>When tying fly patterns, it’s very important that you try your best to incorporate several different elements of fly design to increase their effectiveness. No one knows with complete certainty what order or priority trout rank each element of a food source or fly pattern, but most anglers agree that the value or ranking of the elements often change depending on how long a trout has been selectively feeding on a specific food source, at what frequency the specific food source is being eaten, and how diverse or consistent a trout’s diet is at the present moment. The order of the elements that I will talk about in know way ranks the importance of the elements. Instead, fly tiers should look at them together as a whole, and try to include as many as possible or as a check list of the features a fly pattern should have when completed. Doing so, they should find there fly patterns more effective on the water for fooling and catching trout. In this post, I will specifically talk about eight different elements of fly design that fly tiers should pay close attention to when tying fly patterns at the vise.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.ginkandgasoline.com/gink-gasoline-fly-patterns/8-elements-of-fly-design-to-follow-for-imitating-trout-food-sources-3/">Read More »</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.ginkandgasoline.com/gink-gasoline-fly-patterns/8-elements-of-fly-design-to-follow-for-imitating-trout-food-sources-3/" target="_blank">http://www.ginkandgasoline.com/gink-gasoline-fly-patterns/8-elements-of-fly-design-to-follow-for-imitating-trout-food-sources-3/</a></p>
</div>Cans on the Riverhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/cans-on-the-river2016-08-20T03:16:36.000Z2016-08-20T03:16:36.000ZGordon Dickinsonhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/GordonDickinson<div><p>Just moved to Macomb, have hunted Saginaw Bay, but would like to hunt Lake St. Clair and the Detroit river, now that I live down here. Looking forward to getting connected with other water fowlers at Kensington. Would like to hunt Cans on the Detroit river on the Canadian side this year. Any help, advice or thoughts that could get me closer to this happening would be greatly appreciated. </p></div>Deer Huntinghttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/deer-hunting2016-07-18T16:45:17.000Z2016-07-18T16:45:17.000ZJeff Sannerhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/JeffSanner<div><p>Hello. I am new to this forum and relatively new to Kensington. My son who is 18 now would love to go deer hunting this fall. I was never raised around hunting so I would not know the first thing about where to go and how to field dress a deer. If anyone would be willing to mentor us and possibly let us come along on your hunt it would be great!</p><p></p><p>God Bless,</p><p>Jeff Sanner</p><p></p></div>Fishinghttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/fishing-22016-06-09T13:38:01.000Z2016-06-09T13:38:01.000ZBrian Taberthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/BrianTabert<div>FI shingles lake st Clair tomorrow. Friday morning. Putting in near metroparkway. Please advise on bait and places to fish small mouth and walleye. Is good walleye only in the river? Thx! I am bringing co-workers. Thx guys!</div>Would like to lease hunting landhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/would-like-to-lease-hunting-land2016-03-12T21:14:26.000Z2016-03-12T21:14:26.000ZJohn Pashttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/JohnPas<div><p>Hi Everyone,</p><p></p><p>I'm interested in leasing land for Jack and I to hunt next season, would prefer it be within 2 hours of Rochester. If you have land or know of anyone who leases I would appreciate any information.</p><p></p><p>Thanks,</p><p></p><p>John and Jack</p></div>2nd Tip To Catch More Fish (Blog 3 of 4)https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/2nd-tip-to-catch-more-fish-blog-3-of-42016-02-09T00:09:58.000Z2016-02-09T00:09:58.000ZDan Stewarthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/DanStewart<div><div><img class="wp-image-777 aligncenter" src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/562472_353840688050485_1844741415_n.jpg?w=680" alt="562472_353840688050485_1844741415_n" width="641" height="325"/></div><div>Three weeks ago I started a blog series about 3 tips I feel is important when trying to catch more fish. The tips are not your ordinary tips. The first blog was an overview of the 3 tips mentioned. I talk mainly about targeting salmon and steelhead but I can’t see why these tips would not work for every other fish. The tips were:<br/><strong>1. Watch others and pay attention</strong><br/><strong>2. Know your rigging/technique/style</strong><br/><strong>3. Have confidence in the way you fish</strong></div><div>You can read the blog post here: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://greatlakesedge.wordpress.com/2016/01/12/three-tips-to-help-you-catch-more-fish-part-1-of/">https://greatlakesedge.wordpress.com/2016/01/12/three-tips-to-help-you-catch-more-fish-part-1-of/</a></div><div>Part 1 was about watching other and paying attention can be found here:<br/><a rel="nofollow" href="https://greatlakesedge.wordpress.com/2016/01/21/learning-from-other-3-tips-to-catch-more-fish-part-2-of-4/">https://greatlakesedge.wordpress.com/2016/01/21/learning-from-other-3-tips-to-catch-more-fish-part-2-of-4/</a></div><dl><dt><img class="wp-image-1145 alignleft" src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/999.png" alt="999" width="266" height="265"/></dt><dd>Fishing for Salmon via trolling is one of the best way to catch salmonoid on the Great Lakes</dd></dl><div>This week we continue to talk about the tips to catch more fish. If you have been fishing for a while, this blog is probably not for you. But if you’re the new guy in town and want to learn, keep reading. Because this is a very basic blog about tips I will not bore you with pages and pages of the different styles of fishing for the many different great lakes fish we have. I am no expert on all the different styles to fish a certain species so it would be dumb to give advice on trolling for Muskie when I have never done it (Hopefully that will change this summer). It is your job to explore and read up on the different styles of fishing when you have a certain species you are targeting, I am going to continue from where we left off about learning from others through watching, reading and listening. I am going to dig a little deeper then most would about styles and rigs.</div><div>If you want to speed up the learning curve of fishing a certain species I strongly suggest you hire a guide. A guide has spent a lot of his life pursuing that species. He will know the styles, rigs and lure/bait/flies to use. He can prepare you for fishing on different trips in your future if you choose to fish by yourself after. Be prepared to ask lots of questions on your trip. </div><div>If you are a “do it yourself” type of guy below is a link on the many different styles of fishing and the rigs they use to hook up.<br/><a rel="nofollow" href="http://takemefishing.org/fishing/fishopedia/how-to-fish/fishing-techniques/">http://takemefishing.org/fishing/fishopedia/how-to-fish/fishing-techniques/</a></div><dl><dt><img class="wp-image-1439 alignright" src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/screen-shot-2016-02-04-at-9-31-51-pm.png" alt="Screen Shot 2016-02-04 at 9.31.51 PM" width="278" height="280"/></dt><dd>When a person doesn't do their research they show up to rivers with giant spoons fishing for salmon</dd></dl><div>If you have been paying attention to others or doing your research online, you probably<br/>have a good idea about what style of fishing is the best for the species or the body of water you are fishing. When you find the style that best fits you continue to research it and put it to the test on the water. You can’t replace time on the water. Like I have mentioned, detail is very important if you want to catch more fish .</div><div>Every style of fishing has its days depending on the species of fish your fishing. Some days the fish want the bait bouncing off the bottom and other days the fish want the bait suspended depending on what your are fishing for. Some days they want the lure trolled fast and other days they want it trolled slowly.</div><div>When you find the style of fishing that you absolutely love, don’t let anyone tell you that your style of fishing is wrong. Don’t fish a style because you want to be cool. Fish a style that works for you and catches fish. Many people think that the way they fish is the only way, which is a load of garbage. Every style of fishing has its days. I love to fish a center pin reel for steelhead. I love how when you hook a fish the fight is between you and the fish. Your hand is the drag. Your float drifts down river as naturally as you let it which results in more fish in my opinion. However, I know that some days are better to bottom bounce steelhead. The same thing goes with fly-fishing and any other style of fishing. The same goes with the different baits, flies and lure that you may use. There is no wrong way to fish as long as you are doing it legally and enjoying it.</div><div>The best thing you can do for yourself is to pick a favorite way to fish. Fish that style for a while until you feel confident. When you have figured it out, don’t be afraid to explore different set-ups . If you can be an all around fisherman, that is when you will have no problem catching fish no matter what.</div><dl><dt><img class="wp-image-1451 alignleft" src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/screen-shot-2016-02-04-at-9-30-54-pm.png" alt="Screen Shot 2016-02-04 at 9.30.54 PM" width="332" height="249"/></dt><dd>A day of high pressure from others lead me to fish smaller presentation to catch this fish.</dd></dl><div>When you first start fishing, don’t be afraid to switch baits often. Weather, water conditions and time of day all have an effect on what may or may not catch more fish. To speed up your learning curve, keeping a journal of all the fish you catch is a great way to learn what works during what conditions. In your journal you will want to keep track of the fish, lure/fly, sky conditions, weather, color or lure, style of fishing and whatever else you may think of. This will help you identify certain conditions to catch more fish and waste less time figuring out what they want.</div><div>This blog may sound like a lot. But the part about fishing that is the most enjoyable is learning the species you are after. Once you get on the water and start catching fish, The enjoyment will come. To this day I am still learning everytime I hit the water. I try and take something a way from every trip I go on. You will probably start catching right away if you have someone to guide you. If you are like me and didn’t have much help at the beginning, don’t give up. Just keep at it and get out as much as your time allows.</div><div><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1184" src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/cropped-screen-shot-2016-01-02-at-1-34-15-pm.jpg?w=680" alt="cropped-screen-shot-2016-01-02-at-1-34-15-pm.jpg" width="1124" height="92"/></div></div>Learning from Other: 3 Tips to Catch More Fish (Part 2 of 4)https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/learning-from-other-3-tips-to-catch-more-fish-part-2-of-42016-01-21T18:19:03.000Z2016-01-21T18:19:03.000ZDan Stewarthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/DanStewart<div><div>Last week I started a blog series about 3 tips I feel is very important when targeting certain fish species. The first blog was an overview of the 3 tips mentioned. I talk mainly about targeting salmon and steelhead but I can’t see why these tips would not work for every other fish. The tips were:</div><div><b>1. Watch others and pay attention</b></div><div><b>2. Know your rigging/technique/style</b></div><div><b>3. Have confidence in the way you fish</b></div><div>You can read the blog post on this section of "Fields and Streams" if you missed it. <a href="https://greatlakesedge.wordpress.com/2016/01/12/three-tips-to-help-you-catch-more-fish-part-1-of/" target="_blank" class="externalLink ProxyLink" rel="nofollow"><br/></a></div><div>The first tip was about watching others and paying attention. In the first blog, I mentioned how it took me 5 years to catch my first steelhead. For the first 3 of those years, I was completely on my own. I was fishing rigs that didn’t make sense at all. I went down to the river and threw my line in not really paying attention to any presentation. I figured the more time I was on the water I would eventually get one. What I didn’t understand was</div><div><img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/303355_620940659777_1274122289_n.jpg" class="bbCodeImage wysiwygImage" alt=""/></div><div>After my buddy hooking a lot more then me I noticed he had a lot more weight on his rig. So I adjusted my rig and started catching more steelhead.</div><div>that presentation was key. I was also fishing one of the toughest fisheries in our state, in my opinion where presentation is everything. Then the final years of getting skunked I had a friend tell me <b>I needed to put down my fishing rod and watch others</b>. I really didn’t understand what he meant by that. I finally caught a couple steelhead on a weekend when I was fishing on other friends boats. I thought it was game on for me. What I didn’t know is I still was not keyed in on proper presentation. I still had no clue what I was doing because I went another year before I caught another steelhead.</div><div>Over time, I have learned to be successful you may have to pay attention to others. You may have to get rid of your ego whether it’s your first fishing trip or you’re a pro and look around you. Catching fish is continually changing due to pressure, weather, evasive species and others. A certain style of fishing may be better then what you prefer for whatever reason. If you don’t look around, you may miss out.</div><div><b>Watching others</b></div><div><img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/bass.jpg" class="bbCodeImage wysiwygImage" alt=""/></div><div>After struggling to catch fish on this lake for a week a fellow fisherman advised me to use little bluegill to catch fish on this lake. Our results were impressive</div><div>It’s pretty simple, put down your fishing rod and watch the people who are catching fish. Look at the type of water they are fishing and where they are casting. If your steelhead fishing the top of a run and not catching anything, but the guy below you is killing them, you know your fishing the wrong type of water. If your trolling for walleye and the boat next to you always has a few on and your not catching anything, you probably are doing something wrong. The saying is true "90% of the fish hold in 10% of the water" and "10% of the fisherman are catching %90 of the fish." If you are not fishing in the right area it will be hard to catch a fish when they are not there. Look at the way they are holding their fishing rod. Study their rig if possible. If they are friendly, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Whatever you do, don’t start fishing their area unless your fishing a popular fishing hole, and everyone is crammed into one spot. Moving in on another person spot will be a quick way to piss off another fisherman. Who knows, maybe they will ask you to fish with them if your asking for help. Most seasoned fishermen usually are happy to help new people out</div><div>You can also acquire knowledge when you are not on the river if you have buddies who fish. If you know someone who loves to fish for your targeted species, ask them for tips the next time you hit the water. Maybe they will invite you fishing which might create a life long friendship.</div><div><b>Read and Listen</b></div><div>If I had done this when I was younger, I probably would have started catching fish immediately. Instead, I looked at pictures and dreamed about my next trip. Then I would post online looking for a river full of fish, go to that river and catch no fish, then come home disappointed. I was doing it all wrong. What I didn’t know was a proper presentation catches fish. You can start learning about the type of fish you are pursuing if you read about them. Look up rigs on how to catch your fish of choice. Read in between the lines to figure things out. There is so much information available via magazine, the web and literature. Research people who know what they are doing and buy their book and magazines that they write for. Listen to what they have to say and learn from them.</div><div>Something else I just started doing was listening to podcast. If you know the fundamentals and proper wording a good podcast can help you become a better fisherman. If you don’t know anything about fishing I suggest you read about it before because they may use words that you don’t know the meaning of. This won’t help you at all. If you have been reading and fishing for a little bit a podcast can help you catch more fish by talking about specifics, rigs and techniques.</div><div>Another way to become a better fisherman is to attend fishing shows and club meetings in your area. Fishing shows usually have seminars from pro fisherman. They will teach you the basics of what fish you are interested in and what they specialize in. Another idea is to sign up for local fishing clubs. Most clubs I know of also have seminars from guys who have been fishing a long time. Another pro about signing up for local clubs is that the money goes to good causes surrounding that fish species or protecting them from what ever threat.</div><div>Pay attention to the little details that you hear about. Every little bit of information will help you out if you listen. Don’t be bummed out if what you hear does not work for you. Sometimes what works for others won’t work for you and visa versa. Eventually, something you read about or hear from a friend or podcast will eventually get you into more fish. Once you catch the first it gets a lot easier.</div><div><img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/12.png" class="bbCodeImage wysiwygImage" alt=""/></div><div>After fishing with my buddy Sam for the weekend I quickly learned how to catch more Lake Trout from listening and learning</div><div>There is a lot more to getting started then just talking to others and researching. My</div><div>point of this blog was to guide someone in the right directions on and off the water. It does not replace quality time spent on the water learning and pursuing the fish your after. However, this tip will steer you in the right direction. I will have blog #3 next week, which will talk briefly about the different fishing there is.</div><div>Thank you for reading this blog. I really hope some of it helps you catch more fish. If you have a moment, please rate this blog at the top. If you have any tips or stories for others concerning “learning from others” please comment.</div></div>3 Tips to Catch More Fish (part 1 of ?)https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/3-tips-to-catch-more-fish-part-1-of2016-01-13T21:27:35.000Z2016-01-13T21:27:35.000ZDan Stewarthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/DanStewart<div><p><img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/1931299_507823402667_821_n.jpg" class="bbCodeImage LbImage" alt="[​IMG]"/><br/> <span>A very discouraged me</span><br/> <span>When I first started to fish for Salmon and Steelhead I was always looking for the easiest way to catch fish. This might be the reason you clicked this link. I would get online a few days before I headed up north and asked which rivers had the most fish in it. Then I rushed to that location only to get skunked. It took me almost 5 years to catch my first steelhead. For most of those years, I was on my own. It also didn’t help that I was fishing one of the toughest fisheries in the state as my home river; the mighty Clinton river. I fished hard as a teenager, 2 to 3 days a week. If I could get a ride to the river I would go more. I did have a day where the fish were biting everything and I managed to hook 3 but they got off. Then I went another 2 years of no hook ups. In this blog, I will be sharing 3 tips that will help you catch more fish guaranteed. It won’t matter if it’s a warm-water species or cold-water species.</span><br/> <br/> <br/> <img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/189721_502988222407_5327_n.jpg" class="bbCodeImage LbImage" alt="[​IMG]"/><br/> <span>When most fishermen want to catch fish they want to skip the learning process and go right to catching. Most will go online and ask where they can catch fish this weekend without ever learning the proper way to fish. They will even mention not going if the rivers are not full. Then they go where they are told to do so and never catch a fish and wonder why. If you want to skip the learning part and go straight to catching fish, I suggest you hire a guide. This is also a great way to learn how to fish correctly right away. However, if you’re like me, and the reason you are reading this blog, you probably want to learn how to get bites and catch more fish. This blog will not be about my secrets or the bait that you see on TV that guarantee you more fish(sorry). It will contain the 3 tips that most don’t think about when pursuing their fish of choice.</span><br/> <br/> <span>Towards the end of those 5 years of steelheading I had a friend who we called “Shoeman” tell me on the river </span><b>“Dan, you need to put down your fishing rod and watch what the people are doing who are catching fish.”</b><span> This probably didn’t sink into my teenage brain for a long time until one day I was not catching salmon on a day where I thought I should be many years later. A buddy of mine next to me was rocking the salmon. I started asking questions and picking his rig apart. It turned out he was using fluorocarbon line as a leader and I wasn’t. I bummed a leader from him and it was game on for me. If I would have paid more attention to other when I was younger I might have caught a lot more fish.</span><br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/603721_623355909597_261914892_n.jpg?w=680" class="bbCodeImage LbImage" alt="[​IMG]"/><br/> <span>Adjusting my rig to the weather conditions helped me have a fantastic day on the water</span><br/> <span>Which bring me to my next tip, </span><b>rigging</b><span>. Have you ever heard the saying “10% of the fisherman catch 90% of the fish?” If you don’t know proper rigging, a river or lake full of fish won’t help you. This includes all types of fisherman whether you’re a pinballer, a fly guy, a bottom bouncer and everything in between. Attention to detail can be very critical at times. Rigging is continually changing due to rivers/lake and weather conditions. The 10% of fisherman know when to adapt to these conditions. If you really want to be a better fisherman, know when to switch rigging or technique. Sometime fishing hardware is better then other technique and visa versa. Every technique of fishing has its times when it will outperform another technique. Having other fisherman around who are catching fish can clue you into which techniques/rigs to use. No matter how great of a fisherman we are, we can always learn from others to adjust.</span><br/> <br/> <br/> <span>If you pay attention to others and learn the rigging/technique you will eventually be a much better fisherman. It won’t happen overnight. Eventually, it will come together for you and your fish numbers will go up. This will help you mold into a better fisherman, which will increase the next tip.</span><br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/207030_502989330187_2104_n.jpg" class="bbCodeImage LbImage" alt="[​IMG]"/><br/> <span>My high level of confidence helps me catch plenty of salmon on skein and bobber</span><br/> <span>The last tip is </span><b>confidence</b><span>. Learn what techniques work the best for you and master it. Study everything you can about it and then put in a lot of hours on the water figuring it out. Eventually, you will become confident with that technique and catch more fish. Use what works best for you and don’t let anyone downplay the way you choose to fish. Just like everything else in our lives confidence plays a huge role in fishing. Pay attention to your confidence level next time you are out fishing. If you are catching fish your probably feel pretty good. If you have been fishing for a couple hours and you haven’t been bit your confidence is probably pretty low and might be sinking as the trip progresses. It’s crazy how your confidence level will play a huge role on your attitude and your day. Try to enjoy being on the water whether or not you are catching fish.</span><br/> <br/> <br/> <b>Conclusion</b><br/> <br/> <span>After 5 years I finally caught my first steelhead aboard a boat known as the G-raft owned by a guy named Dan Johnson (aka Spanky). Then my buddy Shoeman took me on his boat the next day where we doubled on Steelhead. After that, I went awhile without catching a steelhead again. Then one spring day it clicked and I started to catch a few by putting the missing pieces together. The 3 tips below really helped put the pieces together.</span><br/> <br/> <span>1. Watch others and pay attention</span><br/> <span>2. Know your rigging/technique</span><br/> <span>3. Have confidence in the way you fish</span><br/> <br/> <span>By learning these 3 tips, it will help mold you into a better fisherman all around. Over time, you will know when to go, where to go and why to go. Do I still get skunked from time to time? You betcha! But thanks to years of experience I have learned these 3 tips above to help me stay in the game and get skunked less. I can also apply this to fishing for other species. Luckily I also have a great group of guys to fish with and learn from. I hope this blog will help you catch more fish.</span><br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <img src="https://greatlakesedge.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/screen-shot-2016-01-02-at-1-34-15-pm.jpg?w=680" class="bbCodeImage LbImage" alt="[​IMG]"/><br/> <span>When you learn to rig properly your confidence climbs. That is when the catching begins.</span></p></div>Bass fishing anyone?https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/bass-fishing-anyone2015-04-29T20:05:17.000Z2015-04-29T20:05:17.000ZChuck Snyderhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChuckSnyder<div><p>I'm itching to do some bass fishing. I live in Lake Orion close to the KCC Orion campus and have a 17 ft Bass Tracker ready to roll. All I need are friends (or new friends) to join me. </p>
<p>If you ever want to go with me to a local lake one evening just add to this discussion with your contact info and when I plan to go (often last minute - evenings) I will try to reach out to you and see if you are available. </p>
<p>I have everything you need except your fishing license. kids welcome. My boat holds 2 comfortably and a kid/teenager is also good.  </p>
<p></p>
<p>You can text me too at 248 496-2593. </p>
<p>Chuck Snyder</p>
<p></p>
</div>Looking for a recommendation for a good boat guy/galhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/looking-for-a-recommendation-for-a-good-boat-guy-gal2015-04-26T16:11:57.000Z2015-04-26T16:11:57.000ZTravis Peakhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/TravisPeak<div>Hello Team - I have a 23' fiberglass boat in need of some minor general repair, not engine work. Has a small leak in the hull I believe is coming from a bad windshield repair or possibly a window. Also has some various other general items that need to be fixed. Anyone have a recommendation for a good boat guy/gal?Thank you!</div>Repair of Remington 870 and Parker Crossbowhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/repair-of-remington-870-and-parker-crossbow2014-12-19T15:39:51.000Z2014-12-19T15:39:51.000ZLaurie O'Mearahttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/LaurieOMeara<div><p>Hello Friends! My son and I really enjoyed the Mingle Jingle. It is such a blessing for young men to see such Godly hunting men enjoying fellowship. Thank you. I have a question about my Remington 870 20 gauge pump shotgun. While opening the magazine coil tube a black plastic joint and a metal coil fell out. I have been on line to try to find out which way they go back in but can't find the info. Does the coil go in first and then the black plug or the black plug first and then the coil? Also, I have had another hunter try to unplug the magazine plug and they can't get it out either. Any suggestions?</p><p></p><p>Also, I dropped my Parker Bushwacker crossbow and the quiver broke off the bow. Do you know anyone who can repair this?</p><p>Thanks, Laurie and Sam!</p></div>need a hunting spothttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/needa-hunting-spot2014-12-07T16:54:21.000Z2014-12-07T16:54:21.000ZChad Vesterhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChadVester<div><p>Hey guys I was wondering if anyone has a place I could take my boys hunting. Not looking to even shoot anything just want to take them. Would like to have a blind to sit in because they are 5 & 6 and can hardly sit still to save their life. Anyway if someone would be willing to let me sit on their land with my boys I would be so greatful because I hunt public land, and reallly don't want to take them out with a bunch of goonies.</p></div>Upper Clinton River Trouthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/upper-clinton-river-trout2014-12-01T16:07:08.000Z2014-12-01T16:07:08.000ZBrett Watsonhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/BrettWatson<div><p>Hey guys,</p><p></p><p>Just wanted to let you all know that there is still plenty of trout fishing opportunities in SE Michigan now that the Paint CReek is closed. The Upper Clinton river has been fishing well. I went out yesteray for a couple of hours and went 7 for 8 on bows and browns. With last weeks weather, it won't be too long before we start seeing activity from hold-over steelhead as they make their way up the system.</p><p> </p><p>Go to flies: Copper Johns, Hair Ear Nymphs, Pheasant tail nymphs</p><p> </p><p>Sizes: 12-20</p><p> </p><p>Nymphing is the name of the game right now, work the slow riffles and pools and keep your flies tight to the bottom. If anyone ever wants to go, let me know.</p><p> </p><p>Tight Lines,</p><p> </p><p>Brett</p></div>FAST DEER PROCESSOR FOR DONATED DEER OR IF YOU JUST NEED ONE.https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/fast-deer-processor-for-donated-deer-or-if-you-just-need-one2014-11-14T14:24:32.000Z2014-11-14T14:24:32.000ZJim Pettyhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/JimPetty<div><p>Hey guys,</p>
<p>We have the same processor that we used last year. If you want to donate a deer for the wild game dinner, please use these guys. If you have a processor that you use and still want to donate meat, please contact me to schedule the pickup.  Here is their information. <span><strong>FAST is covering the cost on the first 10 deer.</strong></span> If you are donating a whole deer we get a discounted price and you need to tell them that you are donating it to FAST. (FAST will pay the fee, and someone will come pick up the meat.)  If you are not donating your deer, they have great prices and many options for you to choose from. When you go there, it is very important that you conduct yourselves as respective FAST representatives. It was very difficult to find someone that was willing to cut prices for us. So here is their info; (you must call Dave before dropping off any deer.) </p>
<p>DnR Processing</p>
<p>Dave and Ron</p>
<p>Dave's cell  248-891-7293</p>
<p>1059 Cambridge Rd. Berkley MI 48072 </p>
<p></p>
<p>West of Woodward and North of 11 mile. </p>
</div>Opening Day Tips from Allan at Michigan Buck Pole (MBP)https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/opening-day-tips-from-allan-at-michigan-buck-pole-mbp2014-11-06T22:37:10.000Z2014-11-06T22:37:10.000ZChuck Snyderhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChuckSnyder<div><p>OPENING DAY CHECKLIST</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With all the first time hunters that sent us photos for the archery season, we are guessing there will be quite a few first time hunters in the woods for the Michigan firearm opener on November 15th.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This post is mainly directed toward new hunters and is meant to be a fun way to get helpful info out to the new hunters joining us in the woods.  MBP community - please share your tips to new hunters as well.  For all of us - it's easy to forget something so here's a little "OPENING DAY CHECKLIST"</p>
<p> </p>
<p>LICENSE</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Don't get all the way out to your blind and realize you forgot your license.  Keep it in your wallet or put it in a backpack that you know you will have with you in the field.</p>
<p>Also - Remember the RESTRICTED combo tag with the "4 plus" on it is for bucks that have four or more points on one side.  That may seem obvious but a lot of deer end up being tagged with the wrong tag in the heat of the moment.   Take a look at your combo tags in the light before you head out into the woods.  Maybe mark one plainly with a sharpie on the back so you aren't trying to figure that out</p>
<p>in the dark with bloody, shaking hands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even though you will be wanting to grab the antlers for a photo the second it falls - you should tag your deer before you do anything else - particularly before moving it.  Nothing spoils a hunt more than getting a fine for an untagged deer.  Speaking of fines...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>SHOOTING HOURS</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Do you know the shooting times for your area?  Know those before you get into your blind and see a buck standing in front of you in the dim light of opening morning.  Here is a link to the 2014 shooting hours on page 12 and 13 of the 2014 Michigan Hunting and Trapping Digest. <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dnr/hunting_and_trapping_digest_461177_7.pdf">http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dnr/hunting_and_trapping_digest_461177_7.pdf</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>STRING TO ATTACH LICENSE TO ANTLER OR LEG.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How many times have you been ready to tag a deer and then start looking for a string to attach the tag the way the DNR guide book wants you to do it and now you have a boot with one lace?</p>
<p>Pack a string in your back pack - not dental floss or kite string -  a string that will look cool later when you are showing off your 12 point!  Also - when you photograph your deer - try to show the tag in the photo you submit to us.  We believe that most hunters legally tag their deer but we get HUNDREDS of comments each year asking "where's the tag?"  Or people commenting that "the tag shouldn't be stuck to the antler"  Link to field dressing and tagging your deer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/deer_field-dressing.pdf">http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/deer_field-dressing.pdf</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>GUN AND AMMO This should not be a last minute decision.  There are new rules for this season so know what gun you can legally use and PLEASE sight it in before you get in the woods.  The people you are hunting with and near will be grateful.  We have all been at deer camp when someone is sighting in their new gun as the sun is going down the evening before the season - or worse they shoot at a tree opening morning to see "if it's still on"</p>
<p>Hear all of those shots at 10AM on opening morning?  A lot of those are at innocent trees being shot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>HUNTER ORANGE.  Even if you are not hunting with a firearm you are required to wear an item with blaze orange on it during the firearm season. All firearm hunters in Michigan are REQUIRED to wear an outer garment of hunter orange color that is visible from all sides, when they are hunting on ANY land during daylight hours. An example of an acceptable garment is a hat, cap, vest, jacket, rainwear, or other outer garment. Camouflage Hunter Orange is legal provided at least 50% of the surface area is solid Hunter Orange.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>SAFETY HARNESS If you plan to hunt from a tree stand you really should wear a safety harness.  Trying to figure out how to put one on and secure it to a tree opening morning is definitely NOT going to increase your safety or quietness.  Some safety harnesses are more complicated than the time and date settings on trail cameras.  You should have a strap that you can easily attach your safety harness to already in your stand prior to opening morning so you are not fumbling around in the dark trying to secure yourself to the tree.  Not talking down to anyone here but getting the height just right so that you can still stand and/or shoot in a few different directions can be a little tricky.  It's best to test this out in the light not in the dark.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>KNIFE If it all goes down the way you hoped it would - we recommend a knife with a gut hook which makes it easier to field dress your deer without cutting into the intestines.  You really should watch a video of how to field dress your deer before you head into the woods otherwise this can be a bad experience for you and those who you love who will be eating the deer later and grimacing because you mixed things together that shouldn't ever be mixed together.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/deer_field-dressing.pdf">http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/deer_field-dressing.pdf</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>WIND DETECTOR We know that some people already know where they are going to sit on opening day regardless of the wind direction but for those of you that care which way the wind is blowing don't forget your wind detector.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>FLASHLIGHT(s) The amount of light it takes to get into your blind or stand or get your gear together at the car is quite a bit different than the light you will want when you start to track a deer in the dark.  You may want to consider 2 different types of flashlights and make sure you have fresh batteries.  We have been on quite a few tracks where everyone's flashlight is going dead.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>TOILET PAPER  Wet leaves particularly at temperatures below 32 degrees just don't add a lot to your opening day experience.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>SNACKS  You may want to unwrap candy bars from their ridiculously noisy packaging the night before opening day and put them in zip lock bags.</p>
<p>And this may seem obvious to most but we'll say it anyway - don't leave anything in the woods other than hopefully a gut pile that will feed other critters.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>WATER BOTTLE/BEVERAGES  Have you noticed how water bottles are getting thinner and thinner and that after two drinks they start to crinkle up in your hand and make a ridiculously loud sound?  Think about getting a real water bottle.  If you are planning on coffee - remember the toilet paper for sure.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>BACK UP PHONE BATTERY  if</p>
<p>you are hunting in a remote area you may want to consider a back up phone battery.  There are several that can recharge your phone if you are without electricity.  Also if you want to conserve your phone battery while you are in the woods - put your phone in AIRPLANE mode so it isn't working hard to get a signal.  Of course you will have to turn that off when you check in on the MBP field report or send us your buck pic!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>LET SOMEONE KNOW WHERE YOU ARE GOING TO BE.  Many people are lost in the woods every season either for a short time or a long time.  This year a few people we heard of had medical emergencies while in the woods.  It's really best if at least one person knows where to look for you.  Also - often a deer track can take several hours and cell phone service is sketchy or your phone battery is dead.  One way to let someone know where you are is to open maps on your phone once you are in your blind - drop a pin on the map, name the location and email that to someone.  Many deer hunters like to keep their hunting location a secret so this isn't for everyone but if you are new to hunting and your mom is go to be "worried sick" about you then this might be a good idea.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Most importantly - don't forget to be thankful and to bless someone else this hunting season by helping them retrieve, field dress or drag a deer or even just give them a compliment when you see their photo on MIBUCKPOLE knowing that they were able to experience something that is rewarding in a way that's hard to define and that they didn't  just roll a grocery cart down an isle at a store to get all of their food this year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We are looking forward to your opening day photos and stories MBP community!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>OK - last minute check before you run out the door.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>License/string</p>
<p>Hunter Orange</p>
<p>Knife</p>
<p>Safety Harness</p>
<p>Wind Detector</p>
<p>Flashlight (s)</p>
<p>Food/Beverage</p>
<p>Toilet Paper</p>
<p>Gun</p>
<p>Ammo</p>
<p>Binoculars</p>
<p>Boots</p>
<p>Hat</p>
<p>Gloves</p>
<p>Hand Warmers</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Go get em and be safe doing it!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Allan Goetz</p>
<p>MIBUCKPOLE </p>
</div>How is everyone bow season going?https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/how-is-everyone-bow-season-going2014-10-28T22:23:34.000Z2014-10-28T22:23:34.000ZDan Stewarthttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/DanStewart<div><p>Other then the great deer hunting for bible bow camp I had, the hunting has been extremely slow for me. I have seen a little 6-point and a fawn twice on our land but that's been it. Hunting state land has also been slow as well. </p><p></p><p>Has anyone arrowed anything? Or, seen anything for that matter? Weathers suppose to get crappy the next couple days. Hopefully it gets the big boys out of their beds looking to start chasing. Can not wait! </p></div>Taxidermist?https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/taxidermist2014-05-05T11:23:01.000Z2014-05-05T11:23:01.000ZKevin Kernenhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/KevinKernen<div><p>Good morning all. Does anyone know a good taxidermist around the Lake Orion area? Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!</p></div>Bass pro shops turkey call traininghttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/bass-pro-shops-turkey-call-training2014-03-23T22:58:33.000Z2014-03-23T22:58:33.000ZBilly MacDonald https://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/BillyMacDonald<div>The Bass pro shops at Great Lakes crossing mall are having a turkey calling seminar on April 5th I will try to get more ion as it comes up.</div>Mentored Youth Hunting License Infohttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/mentored-youth-hunting-license-info2014-03-23T16:40:22.000Z2014-03-23T16:40:22.000ZChris Sarsfieldhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/ChrisSarsfield<div><p>Guys,</p>
<p>If you have a child in your life you'd like to get out hunting under 10 or will be turning 10 soon be sure to get the Mentored Youth Hunting License for them ASAP.  River is turning 10 in July, but by getting the MYH license before his 10th birthday he qualifies to get all the licenses for the year.  For only $7.50 you get these licenses:</p>
<p>The license is a "package" license that entitles the mentored youth hunter to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hunt small game (including waterfowl)</li>
<li>Hunt turkey (spring and fall, any hunt period/location, on private or public land)</li>
<li>Hunt deer (one tag, any deer unless during an antlerless-only season)</li>
<li>Trap furbearers</li>
<li>Fish for all species</li>
</ul>
<p>MYH License info:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10363_58977---,00.html" target="_blank">http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10363_58977---,00.html</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>MYH License Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):</p>
<p><a href="http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10363_58977-261082--,00.html" target="_blank">http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10363_58977-261082--,00.html</a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
</div>Detroit News Story on Hunting/Fishing License Change...https://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/detroit-news-story-on-hunting-fishing-license-change2014-02-22T13:35:55.000Z2014-02-22T13:35:55.000ZBrad Nicollhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/BradNicoll<div><p>I thought you guys might want to see this...</p><p></p><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140222/METRO06/302220021/State-hunting-license-changes-take-effect-March-1" target="_blank">Hunting/Fishing License Change</a></p></div>Hunter falls from tree standhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/hunter-falls-from-tree-stand2013-11-06T16:45:01.000Z2013-11-06T16:45:01.000ZSteve Buchanhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/SteveBuchan<div><p>Hey guys, shooting deer is not worth your life. Wear a safety harness or stay on the ground.</p><p></p><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/11/06/facing-grim-prognosis-indiana-hunter-paralyzed-in-fall-from-tree-chooses-to-end/">http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/11/06/facing-grim-prognosis-indiana-hunter-paralyzed-in-fall-from-tree-chooses-to-end/</a></p></div>Asian carp in Great lakeshttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/asian-carp-in-great-lakes2013-10-29T16:06:51.000Z2013-10-29T16:06:51.000ZKevin Brennanhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/KevinBrennan<div><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://finance.yahoo.com/news/asian-carp-reproduce-great-lakes-111125936.html">http://finance.yahoo.com/news/asian-carp-reproduce-great-lakes-111125936.html</a></p></div>10mm pros and conshttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/forum/topics/10mm-pros-and-cons2013-10-24T13:06:05.000Z2013-10-24T13:06:05.000ZSteve Buchanhttps://fieldandstreamteam.org/members/SteveBuchan<div><p>Does anyone here have experience with 10mm? Looking for suggestions on best platform, Glock, 1911 etc. Also what are the best rounds for plinking as opposed to hunting?</p></div>