Top Survival and Hunting Tools to carry on your next tour

Survival is the most basic instinct of all the creatures living in this world. As a human being, we are also characterised with survival in the harshest of environments.

Although we are always safe when not exposed to nature in any way. Sometimes our hobbies and activities to take us in the wilderness or in the open where we are quite exposed to the environment, nature, and all the wild animals living in their habitat. In such an environment, our safety and welfare are always going to be fragile.

Sometimes we don’t mean to get into these types of situations too, but we can always end up in them. Bad times or bad luck doesn’t always inform us before coming. So for this reason, it is wise to have some survival and hunting tools all the time that can help us navigate our way to safety.

You always need an insurance policy to make sure you have a good chance to survive in any dire situation. When you are on trekking, hiking, mountaineering, off-roading, or a hunting tour, it is important to carry items that can help you survive in the open if anything doesn’t go as you have planned.

Difficult times always come unannounced, so it is better to prepare for it instead of regretting later. Following are some top survival and hunting tools to carry on your next outdoor tour.

How to plan your trip and reach the destination successfully?

Planning a trip to your hunting or trekking destination may sound stress-free on paper, but it is no way near easy. You actually have to plan each and every detail, and even then you may have to improvise most of the time on your trip as things don’t go as planned sometimes.

However, there are a few ways that can help you plan and execute a near faultless trip. We recommend you to acquire the services of a renowned travel agency known as Dream World Travel.

They are highly trained in their work and provide complete professional assistance to all their clients. Their travel consultants can help you plan a perfect trip, along with finding the most suitable hotel accommodation, airline tickets, travelling transfers, car rentals, and any other important aspect that is needed to be satisfied before embarking on your journey. So be wise, and always consult them for their immaculate services.

Top hunting and survival tools

If you are an outdoors person, you need to invest in top hunting and survival tools. These tools will always come in handy when you are in a situation of emergency or crisis. These tools are also quite interesting, and their application can help you survive any mishap on any trip. Following are those items that we recommend to carry all the time in your backpacks when going into the wilderness for a short or a long trip. Do carry these items, as they can save your life any unlucky day.

High-energy protein bars

When you are on trekking trail in any dangerous condition or watching your prey in its natural environment, you should know that trouble can come unannounced anytime. Trekking, hiking, hunting, or any outdoor adventure entails a person to be in perfect shape and fitness. You need to prepare yourself physically so that there is less chance you find yourself in any kind of trouble.

However, even the toughest trekkers or most knowledgeable and skilled hunters can come across life-threatening issues.

To tackle these issues, you need to keep a sharp brain that can think of different ways around. So in order to keep your brain functioning, you need maximum energy in your body. For this reason, you need to keep high-calorie energy bars in your backpack.

They occupy only a small space in the rucksack or any other bag you are carrying. These high-calorie snacks are far better than carrying snacks that take up a lot of space and are also a burden to carry on your shoulders.

Powerful Flashlight

A flashlight is a rudimentary tool for every outdoor person. Although people do carry it most of the times, it is important to carry one that is powerful and long-lasting. Not every flashlight is powerful enough to last long, or provide a longer assortment to signal your rescuers. To satisfy this need, you have to spend your money on a powerful flashlight with a long-lasting battery. This instrument will also come in handy even if there is not an emergency.

Whistle

Blowing a whistle can allow you to produce a voice signal. This voice signal can be picked from far off areas, and if blown with the wind, it can further enhance its range. A powerful whistle can alert your rescuers from a long distance, from which they can detect your location easily.

Paracord bracelet

Tools such as Paracord bracelet may seem like a fashion accessory of an outdoor person, but in reality, it is a lifesaving tool. It is made up of very long thin ropes that can be used in times of emergency. You can use it in many ways such as binding broken pieces of your vehicle, creating a hammock, sewing your backpack, making a pulley, cutting a piece of wood, making a trap to capture prey, and etc. Some paracords are also equipped with a fire-starting mechanism, a whistle, and even a compass.

Firestarter

Firestarter is the most vital part of a survival kit. Keeping it in your backpack, and knowing how to use it can actually save your life in dire situations. When you can make a fire, you can keep yourself warm along with keeping all the wild animals away. It helps you to develop your camp and shelter which is imperative to survive the night. Fires are also visible from a long distance as well as from above the sky, so it can help in signalling your rescuers too.

Portable Water purifier

A light portable water purifier is a basic tool to carry when going on trekking or a hunting trip. It will help you cleanse water by purifying clean water from all the unhealthy contents. Drinking water straight from rivers or streams is not wise in any kind of adventure. If you do so, you are most likely to fall ill with a stomach bug. So to avoid any trouble with your health in the wilderness, always take a portable water purifier on all your outdoor trips.

Swiss Army knife

A Swiss Army knife is a comprehensive set of knives, fork, spoon, and cutters. In some SAKs, you can also find small flashlights or fire starters. It is a stimulating gadget but it does make your life on the trail much easier. It can also save your life in dire situations. So always keep one in your survival and hunting kit.

Compass

When you are lost in the wilderness, a compass will always guide you to your destination. It can also guide you to safety when an emergency situation arises. You are assured to never get lost wherever you go if you know how to use this amazing direction device.

Bivouac Shelter

When you feel like you won’t be able to reach your anticipated destination for the night due to some unforeseen delays in the face of an emergency or injury, a bivouac shelter will always help you survive the gruelling night. It has hoarded a lot of lives in the very extreme conditions, and every traveller must carry one in his or her rucksack just in case. There are a lot of stories that can attest to the fact that a bivouac shelter has saved lives in extreme locations such as deserts, high altitude plains, mountains, and etc.

Axe or a sharp spade

You can use an axe or a sharp spade to dig a ditch, cut a tree for shelter, leaves, or food, or even hang a hammock to escape insects and other animals on the ground. Axe and spade are also going to be helpful for other endurance tricks as well, so carrying this tool is essential for every hunter, trekker, mountaineer, and outdoor person.

7 Genius Camping Hacks Every Camper Should Know

Camping equals thrilling adventures and unforgettable memories with friends and families. Added to it is quality time together—ah, a perfect way to make the moments count!

Don’t you feel grateful after every camping excursion? A sense of contentment that overpowers your mind with a feeling of ‘how blessed you are?’

I have already started to miss the campfires, the BBQ, the togetherness, the fear, the adventure, and what not—it’s fulfilling.

So, once you are clear about your next camping destination, you have to start packing for it. The rule of thumb for camping is pack less, simple, and outdated. Seems strange? Obviously, it is the toughest challenge to carry it all, so why not. Let’s explore the hacks that I have to tell you before you will start guessing:

  • Waterproof your Stuff

Waterproofing your stuff is the most important thing to do when going into the wild. At first, waterproof your shoes using beeswax or waterproof spray or else they would be all dirty and non-washable. Honestly, it saved me from a lot of hassle and wastage of money!

Secondly, waterproof the matchsticks by keeping them in plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes. Attach the igniting strip on the inner side of the plastic container. In addition, invest in waterproof protectors for your smartphones and other tech gadgets.

  • Invest in Travel Wallets

Wallets are waterproof as well. The next question must be that from where can we get them? Tactical Peak gets you the adventure-friendly travel wallets.

A variety of wallets having varying types of survival tools is what you’d be getting as an added bonus!

Read more by clicking here and let us know if you have anything better in mind?

  • Take Doritos with You

No fire igniting wood? Kindle fire with Doritos or Fritos. These oily chips can easily start a fire that will last for hours. Continue the BBQ and stay warm!

  • Coffee Bags are Life-Saving

Can’t live without coffee? Fill the coffee filters with your favorite ground coffee and tie the top securely. Whenever you need coffee, fill your cup with hot water and place a coffee bag to get an energy boost.

  • Foam Tiles

Inside your tent or outside, a bunch of foam floor tiles would be the best way to prevent discomfort. In the wilderness, you cannot expect to have a smooth ground, so these tiles are a life-saver. They keep the insects, dirt, and mess, out of reach. Plus, they are super-light in weight; hence, easy to carry.

  • Learn Who’s your False Friend

Not every plant is edible. A lot of plants are thought to be safe and edible but, in reality, they are not. So, be mindful of what effects different plants have on you or your pup. The plants to which your pup is allergic to should be avoided. You may be allergic to some of them too. Therefore, know who your ‘false friend’ is.

  • Carry Dozens of Lightening Instruments

You MUST not run out of options in the middle of the jungle. Plus, everyone should have a torch so that if they are accidentally lost, they have their complete gear until you find them. Batteries, power torches, candles, LED light, and oil lamps; take it all with you.

Did I miss out on something? What are your hacks for camping?

About the Author:

James Graham is a digital nomad who is obsessed with travel and all outdoor activities. In his free time, he likes to hunt and explore new places. You can read his blogs at https://tacticalpeak.com​​​​/category/blog/.

Tent Types and When to Use Them

Camping offers a myriad of benefits to all kinds of nature lovers, from hikers and budding mountaineers to hardcore earth worshippers. Being close to nature even for just a while improves physical, psychological and spiritual wellness.  But in order to fully reap the benefits of camping, it is essential to be prepared with the right gear and equipment.

The most important item of equipment is of course the tent, and a great camping experience can only be achieved if you have the right tent that suits your purpose and preferences. If you are planning to purchase a new tent, or upgrade an existing one, the best place to start before setting foot in a showroom is to browse some websites of retailers of outdoor products like MO Tackle & Outdoors to get a feel of the type of tent that will best for your trip.

If you are new to camping you may find the range of tents that are on offer bewildering.  Tents come in many different shapes, sizes, materials and configurations, and also serve different functions. This guide will help you to navigate the choices once you understand that there are essentially eight different types of tents that are used by campers today:

  1. Basic Ridge Tent

The basic ridge tent, often called the ‘A-frame tent’ because it forms the shape of an ‘A’ when erected, is one of the oldest types of tent. If you can’t visualize how the basic ridge tent looks like, you can check your apps for the tent emoji or icon — that classical illustration of a tent is the A-frame tent.

When to use it: This easy-to-assemble tent is a good choice for rainy weather camping as its formation allows raindrops to slide off instead of pooling on top. It offers little head room, so this is best reserved for trips where you’ll be spending more time outdoors than in the tent itself.

  1. Dome Tent

These days, the dome tent has surpassed the basic ridge tent in terms of popularity. You can identify this type by its distinct dome shape that is created by the pair of poles that intersect at the top and bend towards the base. This dome shape gives the tent much better headroom, which is a comfort when you’re changing clothes. Most dome tents come with a flysheet that you can place over the top that can be used to control the sunlight that enters the tent and help deflect rain in wet weather.

When to use it: The lightweight material of the dome tent is perfect for fair-weather hiking. It offers good ventilation and can withstand light rain showers.

  1. Tunnel Tent

As the name suggests, this type of tent is shaped like a tunnel with flexible poles that extend from one side of the tent to the other. Guylines reinforce the stability of the tunnel tent, allowing it to endure strong winds and heavy rains.

When to use it: The tunnel tent is recommended for group camping trips as it has adequate space for a large number of people and their camping gear.

  1. Geodesic and Semi-geodesic Tent

Before it made its way to the world of camping, the word ‘geodesic’ was mainly reserved for mathematical phrases that describe the shortest line between two points on a spherical surface. The geodesic tent is characterized by the poles that crisscross at the top to reinforce the structure of the tent. A semi-geodesic tent, on the other hand, shares the same qualities as the geodesic tent but with fewer poles.

When to use it: The crisscrossing poles reinforce the stability of the tent so as to help it survive extreme weather conditions such as strong winds, which is a common problem in high altitude hiking. Because of this quality, the geodesic tent is the tent of choice of many Mt. Everest climbers.

  1. Pop-up Tent

When the pop-up tent hit the outdoors market, it instantly became a craze among nature enthusiasts because of the almost zero effort it requires to set up. All it needs is a little uncoiling and unfolding et voilà, it is ready for occupancy.

When to use it: Most pop-up tents are made of lightweight material that is only suitable for fair-weather hiking and camping. They are a decent choice for when you would much rather spend your time exploring than tent pitching.

  1. Inflatable Tent

The inflatable tent is another type that requires little effort in setting up. In place of poles, it has hollow panels that need to be inflated to stabilize the structure. While the thought of air stabilizing the tent doesn’t sound impressive, you may be surprised to know that inflatable tents are rather sturdy and actually do very well in a variety of weather conditions.

When to use it: As inflatable tents tend to cost more than other types of tents, it is often a choice of ‘glampers’ who enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature and the familiar comforts of home. Inflatable tents have become popular among luxury camping resorts in countries such as Thailand, Australia and Costa Rica.

  1. Backpacking Tent

The backpacking tent is a variation of the dome and geodesic type tents – but usually more elongated – and is designed to reduce weight as much as possible. A no-fuss tent, it is lightweight, easy to pitch, and has ample room for the contents of your backpack. The backpacking tent stands low so it doesn’t offer much headroom but its stability in windy weather winds more than makes up for that.

When to use it: It’s a better choice that other types of tent if budget is not an issue, because true backpacking tents use the lightest materials possible to reduce weight – but these usually cost more than the materials used to construct other types of tents.

8.  Cabin Tent

Also known as the Family Tent, this type of tent is the largest, heaviest and usually most expensive of all.  It’s a full-height tent that can only be taken on camping trips with a motor vehicle, or a motorcycle and trailer, because it’s too heavy to carry when backpacking. It’s the roomiest type of tent and some luxury models boast separate ‘bedrooms’ that are zipped compartments off the living area.

When to use it: This type of tent is idea for family vacations when camping at one spot for more than a few days. It’s not suitable for overnight trips given the time that it takes to set up the tubular steel frame and the fact that at least two people are required to place the tent fabric over the frame.

Knowledge of tent types and when to use them takes you one step closer to a good camping experience. Aside from understanding what type of camping trip each tent is designed for, it’s also important to take account of the terrain where the tent will be pitched, the season in which you will be travelling (winter models are generally much heavier and more bulky in all categories) and how many people will be available to assist in pitching the tent.

5 Fishing Tips for Beginners

Whether we were 10 or 35 years old, most of us remember the feeling of catching our first fish. The wiggle of the first bite, followed by a persistent tug at the end of the line, all leading up to the thrill of pulling a fish out of the water, is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. To help you with your first catch, we’ve put together a list of some of the must-knows for your angling adventure.

Why You Will Love Fishing

While there’s no clear date of conception, we know that recreational fishing has been a practice for centuries. The earliest reference to the sport pops up in an essay from 1496, but recreational fishing, as done today, became extremely popular in the mid-1600s.

From saltwater to freshwater, fly to offshore fishing, there’s endless amounts of fun to be had in the world of angling. Recreational fishing is done in many ways, including with a net, spear, or hand gathering, but the most common way is with a hook and line.

Because fish are all over the world, it means you can fish all over the world, too. With the exception of some mountain lakes, you can find fish in almost any body of water. Popular freshwater species to target include crappie, bass, and salmon. Popular saltwater fish include redfish, flounder, and marlin. Be sure to check fishing regulations in your area before heading out.


Fishing Tips For Beginners

Here are some essential fishing tips to keep in mind if you are just starting out.

1/Fishing Gear Tips

The first step to fishing success is to acquire the right gear. This can be a daunting process, but with the help of these tips and your local sporting goods store, you’ll be all set for your first catch.

  • Splurge for Quality Products: Like many things in life, quality comes at a higher price tag. If you’re planning on making fishing a regular part of your recreational activities, it’s totally worth it to spend a little more on rods, reels, tackle gear, etc. that will last throughout the years. Always look for products that are made with durable, heavy-duty material.
  • Don’t Forget the Outerwear: Fishing is an outdoor activity and often involves slick, slippery surfaces. Prepare yourself for the weather conditions with a good pair of boots with lots of traction, a waterproof jacket, and a pair of waders, if you want to give fly fishing a go.
  • Ask an Expert: There’s only so much research you can do on your own. If you’re dead set on getting the perfect gear the first time, your best bet is to ask for personal recommendations from friends who fish regularly. Any sporting goods store employee can also guide you in the right direction; make sure you let them know you’re a beginner, so they can find the products that are best suited for your needs.
  • Consider Your Watercraft (or Lack Thereof): Among the long list of considerations to keep in mind when shopping for new gear, is to consider the importance of your potential angling circumstances. Will you be mainly fishing from a boat? A dock? A frozen lake? This will have an effect on the gear you choose.

2/Fishing Tackle Tips

The next step on your journey to fishing success is to look at your tackle box. Filling up your gear supply with the best products is important, but here are a couple of other considerations:

  • Choose the Right Line: There are several different styles of fishing line, each with qualities that make it an attractive pick, depending on your angling style. As a beginner, you may be steered towards a clear monofilament, a fairly inexpensive, flexible line. While it’s a good starting point for a novice, consider choosing a braided line instead. It’s super durable, strong, and sensitive.
  • Switch Out Your Hooks: Once you have a couple of fishing trips under your belt, you may notice that your hooks have begun to dull and they’re not as effective as they were right out of the package. Rather than trying to sharpen the same hooks over and over again, keep a stash of fresh ones that you can switch out easily. This will save you some much needed time and energy.
  • Stay Organized: Organization may feel like an unnecessary afterthought, but just wait until you’re in the middle of a lake and you can’t find the piece of gear you need in your mess of things. Invest in a compact, multi-compartment tackle box. This will help you sort your gear from most to least needed and keep everything in a handy, easy-to-find spot.
  • Maintain Your Line: Line that doesn’t get any maintenance can snap easily, which is super frustrating, especially if you have a fish at the end of it. Because the end of your line gets the most wear and tear from underwater structures, fish teeth, etc. Lenny Rudrow from Boat U.S. recommends cutting the last five feet off after a couple of trips to prevent a potential breakage.

3. Fishing Rod Tips 

Arguably, the most important part of your fishing gear is your rod. Without a rod, there’s little connection between you and your catch, so picking out the correct one is vital. Keep the following in mind:

  • Get a Spinning Rod: Spinning rods are the go-to choice for beginners because they are super easy in terms of usability and they’re very effective. This is the style of rod that will be best for targeting small to medium-sized fish in the range of five to seven pounds. They come in a variety of lengths, but a six-foot rod is the best style for a newbie.
  • Think Materials: Graphite, fiberglass, composite, oh my! There are many considerations to make when it comes to the material of your rod. Graphite is super sensitive but not as durable as other choices. Fiberglass and composite are both very durable, but not as sensitive. A fiberglass and graphite composite is usually a good bet, as it has the sensitivity, but won’t break under the pressure of a large catch.
  • Become Personal With Your Rod: There are many styles of rods on the market, but all will include the basic features, including guides, ferrules, reel seat, etc. Getting to know your rod and how to put it together and take it apart will get you one step further to success.
  • When in Doubt, Go for Trusted Brands: If you’re still not sure where to turn for your first rod, there are many companies that are well-loved within the angling community that consistently produce high-quality products that should be your first pick. Brands like UglyStick, Shimano, and Shakespeare shouldn’t let you down.

4. Fishing Reel Tips

After you’ve acquired the perfect rod, it’s time to think about your reel. Don’t underestimate the value of a reel, as it will have the most effects on your casting. Here are a couple of tips and tricks:

  • Try a Spinning Reel First: With a spinning rod, you’ll want to use a spinning reel. These reels are the perfect choice for novice anglers, as they can be both right or left-handed, and they’re easy to mount and set up on the bottom of a rod. These reels are the best choice for hunting smaller fish (what you’ll start out with as a beginner), and they handle small bait and lures really well.
  • Acquaint Yourself With the Drag system: The drag is an element of the reel that allows friction to be added to the line, allowing for a little less give in casting and reeling in, which is particularly useful in a fight with a large fish. Go for a rod with a disc drag system, as it provides the smoothest drag, and it’s easy to find. The drag system may not be something you play with on your first trip, but it’s important to learn how to use it for future angling endeavors.
  • Maintain Your Reel: Once you’ve purchased a reel, it’s important to provide it with the TLC it deserves. Doing a little maintenance every once in a while can have great effects on the longevity of the product. If you’re planning on fishing in saltwater, this is even more important. After every use, give it a good rinse with clean fresh water, and after a few uses, it’s worth it to take it apart and give a more thorough bath with a gentle soap. Follow up with some lubricant and you’ll be ready to go.

5. Fishing Lure Tips

Last but not least, don’t forget the bait! Lure fishing is the most popular among novices and experts alike. Give yourself the best chance at a catch by practicing the following tips:

  • Learn What the Fish Like: Don’t be afraid to purchase a couple of different lures for your first fishing trip. Ask your local sporting goods store employee about the fish in the area you’ll be searching for, and they’ll likely give you a couple of recommendations on the best lures to attract them. Great, versatile options include metal spoons, jigs, and crankbaits. Try out one for an hour and if you’re not getting any bites, switch it up!
  • Match Your Action to the Lure: Because lures are created to imitate a fish’s natural prey, it’s important that you mimic the swimming patterns of the prey you’re presenting. For example, with a football jig made to look like a crustacean, you’ll want to drag it along the bottom rather than wiggle it near the surface. Some fish are smarter than you think.
  • Try Out Live Bait: Don’t underestimate the power of a worm. Sometimes live bait does work best thanks to its natural scent and motion. If you choose to use live bait, just make sure to keep it in good shape before use. Fish are less likely to chase a half-dead bait.
  • Keep ‘em Clean: After use in saltwater or mucky freshwater, make sure you give all of your lures a good rinse to keep them in good shape. If you’ve used lures with hair, like bucktails or skirts, comb them out to prevent them from tangling-- they’ll be much less effective in the water if they’re tangled up because the hair can’t move as freely.

When Is Tthe Best Time To Go Fishing?


There’s no great answer to this question, as many hardcore anglers will go out any time of the day, any time of the year, and find themselves a couple of big fish. But for a beginner, generally, the best seasons to head out to the water will be during the late spring and early fall and summertime.

During the summer, the best time of day to go out is in the late evening or early morning, as fish will be feeding on the bugs and critters that are active. In spring and fall, dusk is your best bet.

If you dare to take the journey out into the winter weather for fishing, you can definitely still find fish, but it will be tougher. If you’re dead-set on starting in January, try out ice fishing! Many anglers love getting their toes cold at the chance of a massive catch on a frozen lake.

Conclusion

Now that you’re armed with some of the necessary knowledge for angling success, get out there! The fish are calling. Aside from acquiring gear, remember that confidence is key. That first cast might be a little scary, but put a little heart into it, and you’ll be just fine. Happy fishing! 

The Great Ocean Road

The great o​​​​cean road is a great road that winds alongside the Southern Ocean. One of the biggest attractions in Australia, it begins about an hour outside of Melbourne’s city centers and extends all the way to the South Australian border. The entire road stretches about 400 kilometres (249 miles) and is often travelled by tourists over the course of a few days, it makes for a terrific road trip abroad. 

Why visit?

If you are entirely unaware of this particular road, you might be asking yourself why people would choose to travel all the way to Melbourne, Australia just to see a road and it would be understandable. So far all that can be gleaned about this road is that it is really long and it goes by the ocean. However, over the rest of this article we hope you will finally glean why this has been referred to as the best road trip on the planet.

What can you accomplish on the great ocean road?

There are few stretches of road along which you are able to experience as much in one trip as the great ocean road. And while you can feasibly experience all of these in a journey of only 2 – 3 days, it is very likely that at the end of the journey, you will simply turn the car around and try to enjoy yourself all over again. Of course, you should always have insurance. So, as you embark on you adventure of the great ocean road while you enjoy travel safety with State, here are things that will blow your mind.

The scenery: We have already established that the great ocean road runs along the Southern Ocean, and while this is in itself a greatly majestic view, it is far from all on offer. The waves at Bells Beach are known around the world for their grandness, Lorne is at the core of Australia’s art community, and Anglesea offers you one of the best natural lands a person can actually relax in. All of these are available scenery for those who simply want to see more than they experience. And of course there are the 12 Apostles, the biggest attraction of the great ocean road. See it right from the road or take one of the available helicopter rides to get a better view.

Nature: Why go on such an epic road trip if you won’t get the opportunity to experience the splendor of nature. This is available in abundance on the great ocean road. Along the great ocean road you will witness the splendor of rainforests, old volcanoes, coastlines, waterfalls, and rivers. All of these with their own unique wildlife and ecosystems, many of which is available nowhere but in Australia. The highlight of all these is without a doubt the Otway fly treetop walk. This is a walk that happens just over the Otway rainforest, elevated to 600 meters you allow you view the magnificent stands of trees right from the top.

The Food: Have you ever wanted to experience as much of the great and diverse foods of Australia as you are able to pack into one single trip? Well, the great ocean road is the precise trip to do so. On this journey you will be given the opportunity to pick your raspberries at the Pennyroyal Raspberry Farm and your own blueberries at the Shoebridge Blueberry Farm. The Lorne Fisheries Co-Op will give you direct access to the freshest catches by local fishermen. Wineries are another fixture of the great ocean road. Whether it’s the Basalt Vineyard or Bellbrae Estate, you will be given to find the best vintages right at their source.

The wildlife: Australia is home to a number of animals that do not exist anywhere in this world. It is the only place you will see these animals in their natural habitat as you will see during your trip. Watch Koalas live their cute and gentle lives at the Great Otway National Park, Anglesea will give you the best sites to watch Kangaroos frolic, and at Logan’s Beach you just might get the opportunity to watch right whales calve, if you are there between the months of May and September. Looking for something a little more educational and you should join the Seals by Sea tour for a chance to learn all about fur seals as you observe them in their natural habitat.  

The Culture: The Aboriginal people were the first settlers of Australia and naturally have a long history with the place. This history has produced a wonderfully welcoming culture and art whose beauty cannot be understated. This is evident in the playing of the didgeridoo, the ancient preserved artifacts, the sacred rock art that dates back over 22,000 years and the stories of an ancient culture. All of these are present in the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Geelong. At Tower Hill, you are able to hire an aboriginal guide who will lead you through the ancient sites of their people and tell you of the intricacies of their cultures. 

The Highlights of The Great Ocean Road

We have already mentioned a few features that represent the best of the best in the great ocean road. But just so you are familiar with the rest, here are the highlights of this journey.

  • Gibson Steps

  • The Twelve Apostles

  • Loch Ard Gorge

  • London Arch

  • The Grotto

  • The Arch

  • Walks in Port Campbell National Park

  • Bay of Islands

  • Appollo Bay Hostel

  • Triplet Falls

  • Kennett River

  • Bells Beach

  • Lorne

  • Teddy’s Lookout

  • The Lorne to Appollo Bay Drive

  • Mariners Lookout

There are many reasons to journey down the great ocean road and these represent the best of those reasons. However, arguably the best feature of this journey are the people you will meet along it. These people are all too happy to help you as you make your journey, whether you are a Foreigner, tourist or a local, and they will certainly make you appreciate Australia and eager for a return.

What gears to use for bass fishing- complete tackle guide

If you are looking for some bass fishing to start your fishing profile, I would say you absolutely took the right decision. No wonder why these fishes are #1 choice for anglers in North America. And it’s a great start to beginning fishing profile with bass fishing.

Bass fishing will teach you something which is very important to learn for any kind of fishing. It will make you consider that, fishes are not waiting for us to take the bait or lures and then hooked by us! What I tried to mean is you won’t get any catch if you just randomly cast your line somewhere in the water and wait for a bite.  

You have to find the perfect spot first where there could be some fish, choose the lure or bait which is preferred by the fish, cast your lures in the perfect depth and mimic it like it’s real. Only then you will get a handful of catch. It may seem to be super hard but trust me it’s not! Just You have to be aware of the fish habits and behavior and a little bit tricky. That’s it! By fishing several times will help you to gain knowledge about that.

What gears to use for bass fishing? Must need Bass fishing tackle

Here’s a reason why bass fishing is a perfect option for everyone! The gears you need for any kind of bass fishing can be super cheap. You always can go for an expensive rod and reel setup depending on your budget. But the good news is, even an inexpensive rod and reel setup can completely serve your purpose.

So let’s dive into more deeper now. What gears do you need? All you need is-

  • Fishing rod (baitcasting, spinning or flyfishing)

  • Fishing reel (baitcasting, spinning or flyfishing)

  • Line and hooks

  • Lures and baits   

To be honest, in bass fishing the critical part is to choose the lures and baits. You don’t have to be much concerned about bass fishing rods, reels, and lines. In this blog, we won’t dig much deeper but discussing the basics of what to use for bass fishing.

The Rod you need for bass fishing

Pick a type

At the primary level, choosing a rod is not a daunting task at all! At the very beginning, decide what type of rod you want to use! Cause each type of rod is designed for a specific type of reel. Here is an article about some of The Best bass fishing rod for the money, you will find Bass fishing rods from all types here in this list! There are 3 most popular type of rods for bass which are-

  • Baitcasting rod- you can use a baitcasting reel with it. These rods a great option for bass fishing. As you know, only the baitcasting reels can be used with this rod which can be attached to the top of the rod, the 95% of the knowledge and techniques can be covered with this baitcasting rod and reel setup.

The downsides are its difficulty level and higher price. We will continue this discussion at the reel portion.

  • Spinning rod- allows you to use spinning reels with this rod. If you are a complete beginner, spinning setup is a great choice for you. Though baitcasting setup is more effective prior to bass fishing, spinning reels are not too far from it. With great affordable price and ease of use, a spinning setup made a place almost to the top.

  • Fly fishing - only can use flyfishing reels with a fly fishing rod. Flyfishing is a fully different kind of fishing where there’s a major difference in casting techniques and equipment. It’s super fun to catch smallmouth bass with flyfishing rod and reel. An inexpensive rod is more than enough to catch bass for a couple of years. Just proper maintenance is all it needs.

Power, Action and size of the rod needed for bass fishing

For those who don’t know, we can categorize any single rod by its unique characteristics- power, action, and size.

  • Power- the overall strength of the shaft or rod blank

  • Action- How much the tip (upper portion of the rod) flexes or bends while

  • Length- the overall size, how long the rod is from top to bottom

So now you simply understand the certain characteristics of any rod, let’s jump straight into the ideal specification for a bass fishing rod.

Recommended specs for a beginning bass fishing

Length

7-8 feet

Power

Heavy or medium heavy

Action

Fast

What reel to use for bass fishing  

You must need reels to retrieve your catch in your bucket, but before choosing the one you need to consider a few essential facts. Likewise, you can choose between these 3 reels-

Baitcasting reel- As I mentioned earlier baitcasting reel is the best option for bass fishing it’s what meant to be bass fishing. But I promised to talk about the issues you have to face dealing with it! Actually, baitcasting reel requires more experience. It takes a lot of practice to make a successful cast. Or you could end up with a disgusting Backlash or Birdnest. Trust me, nobody want’s a backlash!

Another issue is the price issue, it’s a bit expensive than all other reels. Apart from this, baitcasting reels are the most versatile reels of all and a low profile( less weight and small ) baitcasting reel can rule over these sunfishes( bass ). As I said before, 95% of the learning can be acquired by these baitcasting reels. So yeah, highly recommended.

Spinning reel- spinning reels are more budget-friendly and super easy to use, anyone can handle it without ending up with backlashes. They are extremely popular among all level anglers. It allows you to use lighter lines and small lures/baits. Smallmouth bass needs smaller lures, so it can be a perfect match to catch smallmouth basses with these spinning reels. Hey, we got an awesome list of best bass spinning reel under 100$ which are simply the best bang for money! You can check this out!

Though low-profile baitcasting reels are highly recommended but then again, a spinning reel is also a very good option. After practicing with spinning reels several, when you gain advanced knowledge about bass behavior, covers, spot then you can go for the baitcaster setup.

Fly fishing reel- I don’t do much flyfishing but it’s great fun to catch them with flyfishing setup. With a flyfishing setup, anyone can catch bass. You don’t even need an expensive reel to catch bass. It’s similar to other setups like baitcasting and spinning. Just instead of topwater, chatterbait or other heavier lures used in those fishing, fly fishing lures are basically required different types of flies to imitate these food sources for bass and present as naturally as possible. So yeah, fly reels are a great option too. The choice is all yours, folks!

Size and gear ratio

If you do flyfishing then it’s a whole new different topic and less to worry about. But if you use baitcasting or spinning Reels, they have major specifications to consider. Such as-

  • Size of the spool

  • Gear ratio

  • Drag

  • Brake

In bass fishing, we can overlook the drag and brake of any reel. As bass fishes are from small sunfish family, relatively small in sizes they couldn’t put much pressure on the line. So any drag can control this small amount of resistance.

For typical bass fishing, You should be mainly looking at one thing which is The gear ratio. The gear ratio is the amount of line the reel takes in per turn of the handle. Higher gear ratio reels are considered as High-speed reels. But remember one thing, with higher-speed it’s more difficult to control the reel. Let’s not go much deeper, lemme tell you the reel specifications for bass fishing.

Size -

try to pick the bigger size reels so it can retrieve more line per turn

Gear ratio

6:4:1 or 7:4:1 depending on your experience. Both will be the correct ratio for bass fishing.

Wrap up

Bass fishes are great fun to catch. These little sunfishes are literally everywhere, you can catch them anywhere in rural and urban areas. They are aggressive, strike hard and jump off the water which is quite of a show! The fun part is, with just a basic setup you can do unlimited bass fishing. It’s won’t put pressure on your wallet as some other fish does!

Here we discussed all the basic gears or equipment you need for bass fishing. Over time you will be mastered with this fishing equipment. It’s ok to be back with an empty bucket someday, even expert anglers faced these days. That’s more like a charm of it. But don’t forget to fish again and again, cause everytime you fish you will learn something new. You won’t be empty handed but some quality experience. Ultimately that’s the secret of it, by fishing it again and again and gaining experience.   

7 Wilderness Survival Skills All Hunters Should Know

What do survival skills mean to you?

While survival skills are part of the world of fiction or something that is cool to watch on a television show to some people, it means a lot more to hunters. How prepared are you for a situation such as a disaster, economic breakdown or being trapped in the wilderness? The odds of being in a “survival for the fittest” situation are narrow, but certainly not impossible.

Although for most people finding themselves in situations that require survival skills is a matter of chance, hunters have to know how to survive under harsh conditions. Learning survival skills not only increases the chances for successful hunting, but it also ensures that you come back home in one piece. Read on for the critical wilderness survival skills hunters should learn.

  1. Packing the essential items

The first skill you should have is to bring important things. Experienced hunters do not have trouble knowing what to park, but that is not the case for beginners. Consider the dangers you are likely to face and pack accordingly. Some items are necessary whether you are going to a hot, cold, snowy or humid region. A key part of your kit should be a first aid tools.

  1. Learn how to make rationalized decisions

For you to stay alive in the woods, you need to learn how to remain calm in adversity and reason rationally. You should prioritize your actions based on what is happening at the moment. Panicking is likely to worsen the situation. Mastering this art requires one to take the S.T.O.P approach. It means that you should quit everything you are doing unless you are running to save your life and then plan on what to do next.

S.T.O.P stands for Sit, Think, Observe and Plan. Take time to survey your environment before settling for a solid plan. Although this strategy does not guarantee your survival, it will make things much simpler for you. At least you will have an idea of what you are doing.

  1. Forecast the weather

When you are at home, you rarely care about the weather unless it is a devastating situation like a hurricane or flood. However, when in the woods, even the slightest weather change can compromise your chances of survival. Heavy winds and rain will increase the difficulty of creating a campfire. The ability to predict the weather keeps you in the know.

Here are some weather forecasting skills:

  • Animals – animal movements can help you predict the weather because some disappear when they sense that rain is coming.

  • Air pressure – clouds move from high-pressure regions to low-pressure regions. So, while you cannot measure air pressure using your hands, watching the movement of the clouds will guide you.

  • Clouds – the easiest way to predict impending rainfall is by knowing what the different cloud coverage means.

  1. Making a shelter

Without a shelter, you cannot survive in the wild for more than two days. If you have a tent, building a shelter is as easy as pitching it. However, if you don’t, then you should know how to create one using the materials available in the wild. You can make use of grass, sticks, and leaves to build a small hut. Use the debris, grass and some leaves to improve insulation and twigs to enhance its stability. Remember to carry your tools such as knives, which are vital in building the shelter.

  1. Collect clean water

There is no way you can survive past the third day without water. While you may have packed some, there is a chance that the reserve will run out, meaning that you need to collect water. Water from the upper part of the stream is cleaner than that from the lover reserves. You can also collect rainwater. In case you are unable to obtain fresh water, then you may have to filter the muddy water. Use the large leaves as funnels, and then fill them with sand and stones. You can pour the water through this system, and you will collect clean water at the end.

Filtered water is not free from microorganisms, implying that you should boil it. If you do not have a pot, pour the water in a cut-out bamboo stem and boil it over a campfire.

  1. Build a campfire

Whether you are out on a hiking adventure or stranded in the wild, learning how to build a campfire is essential for these reasons:

It is a source of light

  • You can use it for cooking

  • Used for signaling

  • Regulates the temperatures, especially at night

  • It keeps harmful insects and bacteria away

Making a campfire is quite easy, but harsh weather conditions might make it challenging. Here’s how to do it:

  • Find an ideal place for building a fire. This should be a flat space without other elements that may catch fire easily

  • Dig some inches into the ground to contain the fire and arrange a ring of rocks in the hole.

  • Collect materials that can catch fire easily, such as twigs and grass, and then put them inside the hole.

  • Try to start a fire. If you carried matchsticks, this would be easy. If not, scrub flints to create sparkles and set the grass and twigs on fire.

  • Put logs around the fire to act as fuel. Remember to have some muddy water on standby in case the fire is out of control.

  1. Know how to exit 

If you have a map and compass with you, finding your way out is pretty easy. If not, look at the sky for navigation signals. If you do not have a map, your best bet would be to move along the bank. Eventually, you will come into the open land, from where you can find help.

Survival is fun

In an ideal situation, you will not be facing an epic situation where you must do everything the natural way. Outdoor activities are enjoyable and safer when part of a group than alone. Also, make sure you prepare adequately. Enjoy your hunting trip!

7 Important Tips to Improve Your Bowfishing Skills

Bowfishing is not only a great sport it provides the whole family with outdoor fun.

When last have you went fishing with a bow or perhaps it is your first time? We know how frustrating it is to get to the water and you miss every shot made. As with any sports, it takes practice.

While there is no “off-season” for hunting fish, it is helpful to practice when you are not at the lake. There are many ways to improve your bowfishing skills to aim at your speedy target.

Further, if you are new to the bowfishing setup practice makes it better to familiarize yourself with the necessary adjustments and setup. Doing this prevents you from wasting your time when you get out hunting real fish, and you do not end up troubleshooting gear!

To help improve your compound bowfishing expertise, read some of the tips that follow here to keep your skills sharp, no matter how often you get out on the water.

  1. Shoot from Different Angles

Do you own a boat or have access to one? Use it docked in the yard, stand on it with your compound bow and practice shooting from it. Alternatively, you can use another platform placed a few feet off the ground.

However, do keep in mind the bowfishing target is usually about 15-feet away. You may even find your prize catch farther away or right under your nose.

Put into practice different shooting techniques from a variety of angles to ensure you’re ready for most challenges on the water. On the other hand, you can use a 3D practice target to hone your skills as well. Make use of cardboard paper towel rolls cut into rings or place plastic bottles to shoot at.

Do this by standing on the boat or elevated platform and toss the rings randomly throughout your backyard. By doing this, you get the same scenario to shoot at as if you are on the lake.

  1. Learn to Fine-Tune Your Bow

Whether you are a newbie at fishing with a bow or have not done bowhunting for a while, there is nothing more annoying than an arrow that does not fly straight.

Sometimes the arrow causes a large splash once it enters the water. To solve the problem, you might need to alter the position of the rest, nock point, regulate the draw weight, or change the arrow length.

Experiment with the available options to learn how it influences the flight of the arrow. Fine-tuning your bow helps you to make solid shots.

  1. Shoot a Ball in Motion

There is no better way to practice than shooting a moving target. Get any ball and shoot at it while it is moving. Here your partner or kid can help to throw the ball, or you can roll it down a slide. Alternatively, you can kick it yourself and shoot at it.

  1. Get Yourself a Bowfishing Target

You can take the alternative route to make a homemade target mentioned previously, but utilizing the real thing is better. With a real bowfishing target, you can hone your skills continually, and it helps to analyze your shots. This is where aiming for something that looks like a real fish is a big help.

You can consider purchasing a target made for bowfishing. These objects are new and make them valuable compared to your dry target as you can practice with the light/water refraction. You can find a diverse range of brands to choose and each one mimics different fish from carp to suckers.

Many of them you can submerge and has a durable self-healing foam design.

  1. Leave the Barbs When Shooting

When bowhunting you get barbs on the arrows helping to keep the fish on the shaft when you reel it in. However, when practicing, there is no need of using the barb. You do not want the bowfishing arrow too damage the target.

Further, you want to save time when removing arrows from whatever you are shooting at. There is a way to mitigate the issue, and that is to remove the barbs to reuse the target repeatedly.

An alternative is to use your practice points instead. You can easily glue it on to a bare arrow shaft made for target practice.

  1. Practice Refraction While Aiming

The biggest challenge you face with archery hunting in water is taking the refraction while aiming into consideration. Here the important thing is to aim low.

Yes, we know easier said than done, and the best way to achieve this is by doing it. You can do this by using a simulated underwater target to aim at before shooting a live fish.

You can make use of soft pool toys, plastic jugs, and bottles anchored underneath the water and make for excellent target shooting.

  1. Get On the Water

Now that you have taken the steps and improved your bowfishing skills the best way to get better at it is to get out on the water. Get in your boat and aim the real thing! Never be afraid of making mistakes, as it is an essential part of learning new skills. Enjoy the outdoors with the family and have fun!

Happy Bowfishing

We hope that the fishing tips help you to improve on your bowfishing skills. No matter if, you are a pro or new at bowhunting, we are sure you will find a technique that works best for you.

Therefore, before you pack your bowhunting gear and head out to the water try them all! The only way to discover what works for you is trial and error, adjusting your techniques and finds the right one for your carp fishing needs.  

5 Best Places for Camping in The US

They say it right: by connecting with nature, anyone can uplift their mood undoubtedly. For this reason, and to break away from the pollution of big cities, I recommend you to go camping. Where, you ask? Here is a list of 5 best places for camping in the United States, go ahead, read on ...

you can read more : Best Weight Distribution Hitch – Makes Towing Safer

  • Crater of Diamonds State Park

Ever dreamed of discovering buried treasures? Make your dream come true by vacationing out in the Crater of Diamonds State Park located in Arkansas. You can go out in quest of precious gems and stones that would be wholly yours to keep. Moreover, you do not need to worry a bit about not having diamond hunting equipment as it is easily available on rent on the site. However, it might get a bit hot out there while you look for diamonds, in that case, the adjoining Diamond Springs water park is the best way to chill while you are surrounded by the most exquisite forms of nature.

  • Devil’s Tower KOA

Devil's Tower is for those who chose to prefer supernatural over natural. Camping at Devil’s Tower KOA might give you a chance of having a close encounter with the supernatural. Yes, you’re right; this is the exact place where the classic movie “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” was filmed in 1977. Not only this, but Devil’s Tower is also a perfect camping place for animal lovers. You can cherish and appreciate the beauty of nature as you sight deer, bald eagles, coyote, fox, and other animals. Enjoy all this while staying safe in the camping cabins that are available on-site.

  • Fruita, Capitol Reef National Park

If you are looking for a relaxing yet fun camping trip in the wild out there, Fruita will surely not let you down. This camping ground in Utah is an excellent option for spending quality time and de-stressing away from the noisy city. Surrounded by a plethora of amazing sceneries, views of red rock desert, and fruit orchards, nothing can surpass the serenity of Fruita. You can even plan on harvesting ripened fruits by your own hands.

  • Assateague Island, Maryland

The island offers various activities for those who want to try everything. Other than camping, you can go swimming, surfing, sun-bathing, paddle-boarding, bird watching, fishing, crabbing, ocean kayaking, biking, and above all, you can go hunting! I know the hunter inside each one of you is already excited for this one, but if you wish for it all to go as you imagined, don’t forget taking the quality Barnett wildcat c5 crossbow for hunters with you for the best experience of your lives.

  • Sparks Lake, Oregon

Visit as many oceans, deserts, or orchards as you like, but nothing can be compared to the utterly phenomenal and exceptional beauty of a crystal-clear lake surrounded by magnificent mountains. In addition to this, the camping trip is made even more fun when there is plenty to explore in the area. Have the opportunity of waking up to the stunning view of North Sisters and Broken Top Peaks from your campsite. Wade on in!

How to set up a Baitcasting Reel – Beginners Guide

Setting up a Baitcasting reel is an important step in becoming an expert in using them and getting the best results. No one wants the frustrations of the backlashes when the spool is spinning very fast, and the line is dragging itself in water. The outcome of the backlash is a line overrunning itself and ends up in a tangle.

Every angler knows that the first best choice she can make is to have the best reel. Having the best reel does not automatically give you the best catch but following some various fishing rules to have the best catch by the time you live the fishing spot.

Getting the best fishing experience without setting up the rod will likely lead to disappointing and a strenuous fishing trip that is why it is in your best interest to have the best knowledge in setting up the Baitcasting reel.

It is important for you to learn how to set up a Baitcasting reel, to achieve this we will take you through all the essential steps of setting up and adjusting a baitcaster.

Line Choices

If you are a learner and want to get the best results, using a monofilament as a line of choice. Most people who use fluorocarbon or braid get frustrated trying to set up the lines. The stiffness of fluorocarbon is why monofilament is the preferred selection, getting a backlash when your choice of line is a fluorocarbon weakens the line and can easily cause breakage later. On the other hand, the braided can create worse backlashes because of its smooth texture that may force you to cut out huge chunks of line to become usable.

It is for this reasons that you should use the monofilament (one that weights between 12 to 15 pounds) if you want to catch fish in most situations.  

To get the best of your reel, fill it under the pool’s edge to the maximum to avoid overruns. Tie the lure on to a rig that you use frequently and wait for the bait.

The Spool Tension

The tension knob is that small dial on the side of the plate, which also on the same side as the handle and drag star. You need to adjust the tension correctly as the first step in setting the baitcasting reel for a smooth casting day.

Hold the rod facing 2 O’clock and bring your lure up until there are at least 8-12 inches of the line drawn. Tighten the tension knob until you feel some light pressure building up, then push the thumb bar and release the lure at this point the lure should be dropping slowly or not at all. Ease the pressure on the tension knob until the pressure until it starts to fall on its own.

Continue reeling until the lure can fall within three seconds, with the correct tension; you will experience any cable overrun when it hits the ground. Please note that each bait work with different tension control.

Brake Adjustments

Getting the brakes right can be tricky when it comes to adjusting the Baitcasting reel. You need to familiarize yourself with the two kinds of braking system used in Baitcasting reel. Every manufacturer designs their breaks differently and performs according to the brand you are using. Here are the two types of breaks:

Centrifugal Brakes

These brakes use small weights on the inside of the plates to activate the braking. You access the plates by unscrewing one side and lifting a lever leading to the plates. Inside the plate, you notice even arrangement of pegs that can be adjusted to the in or out position.

Pushing it on the out (ON) position means, you are transferring more weights on the outside and ends up creating more centrifugal forces on the Baitcasting reel causing it to slow down. Always leave the pegs in a symmetrical pattern, which creates a balance. You can do 2, 3, 4, or 6 pegs to create the symmetry.

Magnetic Brakes

These brakes are easy to understand and adjust because they use a dial on the outside the reel plate that adjusts the brake strength. The dial adjusts between a MIN of 1 and MAX of 10, here the higher the setting, the more breaking applied.

Hybrid Brakes

Some Baiting cast reels use both the magnetic and centrifugal brakes the adjustments are the same, but each needs to be set a little lower, which may be a bit complicated to some anglers. Therefore, you had better stick to what you know.

The Drag

Setting the drag on a Baitcasting reel should be so simple. Look for the star-shaped dial lying between the reel handle and the reel body. Turn the star forward to tighten the drag and inwards to loosen. To tighten the drag and make it tight enough not to slip on the hookset and strong enough not to give away, tug and click the star wheel down until the line is ready to pull off the spool.

Making the Adjustments

Now that you know the different components and working mechanisms of the Baitcasting reel take time and check your spool tension and brakes in the best way as explained above. Take some test cats and see how it all goes, make the tension on the casts as you become comfortable.

Do not focus so much on the backlashes if you are a beginner because you need to get the distance right and a lot of practice in controlling the spool using your thumb. As you get the hints correctly lower the brakes and start enjoying the long casts.

Make sure your brakes are on a windy day. Casting your line hard on a windy climate without properly siting the brakes without proper knowledge on using the thumb is a call for a backlash. Instead, turn up the brakes and roll cats to reduce the chances of an overrun on a windy day.

Conclusion

The success of angler depends on experience and skills, when you do not catch enough fish for the day it does not mean that you are ignorant on matters related to fishing. The best is to look for the best Baitcasting reel for a better fishing outing. Better still, this article is a perfect guide to help you achieve more.