From GPS devices and headlamps to satellite messengers and smartphones, modern backcountry adventurers rely more than ever on electronics. While going off-grid once meant leaving tech behind, today’s gear often depends on a steady supply of power — especially for safety, navigation, and communication. Whether you’re out for a multi-day backpacking trip, a remote hunt, or a backcountry ski tour,...

For many of the most iconic backpacking trips in the U.S.—like the Grand Canyon’s Rim-to-Rim trek, the Enchantments in Washington, or the John Muir Trail in California—you’ll need to secure permits through Recreation.gov. This centralized online platform is used by federal land management agencies to issue permits, manage lotteries, and provide access to popular public lands. While it simplifies the...

When it comes to archery—whether for hunting, target shooting, or 3D competition—the characteristics of your arrow have a significant impact on performance. Two of the most influential factors are arrow weight and shaft diameter. Understanding how these variables affect arrow flight, velocity, and terminal performance can help archers optimize their setup for their specific goals. 1. Arrow Weight and Its...

Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), a member of the sunfish family Centrarchidae, is a popular freshwater game fish native to eastern and central North America. Known for their aggressive strikes and fighting ability, smallmouth bass are also ecologically important as mid-to-top-level predators in the aquatic food web. This article explores their ecology, including habitat preferences, feeding behavior, reproduction, and their role...

Hunting black bears is a rewarding challenge that can result in great memories and a whole lot of delicious meat and fat. A well-placed shot ensures a quick, humane kill and minimizes the risk of losing the animal. Whether you're hunting over bait, spot-and-stalk, or calling, understanding black bear anatomy and behavior is essential for success. Understanding Bear Anatomy Unlike...

Cleaning a bear skull and hide is a rewarding process that preserves the memory of a successful hunt and honors the animal through respectful use. Whether you're aiming for a clean European mount or preserving a beautiful hide for display, the process takes patience, the right tools, and a bit of elbow grease. Here's how to do it right. Cleaning...