Author: Texas Outdoors

Why You Should Consider Buying a Boat This Summer

Have you ever dreamed of sailing on your favorite lake or open sea in your very own boat? Here’s why you should consider buying a boat this summer.

Do you love the feeling of cruising on a tranquil lake or ocean? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own a boat? This summer, why not consider investing in an aquatic adventure and purchasing a boat? A boat can open up many possibilities—whether it’s fishing, sailing, or just enjoying the beauty of nature from out on the water. Below, we detail why you should consider buying a boat this summer.

Exciting Way To Explore the Outdoors

Buying a boat can be an exciting, unique, and adventurous way to explore the outdoors. The endless possibilities and freedom that come with owning a boat allow you to experience the beauty of nature. You can leave the crowded beaches behind and explore secluded islands, hidden coves, and crystal-clear lakes that you can only reach by boat. While aboard, you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, stunning wildlife, and peaceful serenity far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Exploring the outdoors on a boat allows you to create memories that will last a lifetime, whether you prefer fishing, water skiing, or a leisurely cruise.

Perfect Opportunity for Family Time

There’s something about being on the water that brings families together like nothing else. And owning a boat provides the perfect opportunity to make those family memories that will last a lifetime. Imagine cruising across the stunning blue waters of a lake or ocean with your loved ones by your side, taking in the breathtaking views and enjoying each other’s company. A day on the boat is always a day well spent with family.

Enhances Vacations and Weekends

Picture this: a golden summer weekend, blue skies, and a warm breeze caressing your face while cruising in your boat. It sounds like a luxury reserved for the wealthy, right? Not anymore. Getting a boat may seem like a splurge, but the benefits are enormous. It can completely transform your vacations and weekends and result in unforgettable memories. Instead of being grounded on land, you can set sail in search of hidden coves and beaches, explore different areas of the lake, or fish in a new spot. The possibilities are endless. And what about those Fourth of July fireworks? Imagine having an unobstructed view and the freedom to enjoy the show from the water. You can take the boat out every Saturday and spend the day cruising, swimming, or relaxing on board. With a boat, you can enhance your experiences and make the most of your vacation and weekend trips.

Want to enjoy the benefits of getting a boat this summer? Go for it! There’s no better time to become a part of the boating lifestyle. And once you find the boat of your dreams, it’s important to know the things every new boat owner must know to help you prepare for all that family fun out on the water. Invest in your boat today and enjoy the freedom of the water!

4 Tips for Texas Gardeners To Tackle the Heat

Texas gardening is a challenge for many. Learn some tips and tricks for tackling the Texas heat, so you can grow fruits and vegetables with ease.

In Texas, gardening is war. Though there are plenty of native plants that find a way to thrive in the heat and humidity, many typical garden plants are hard to grow. This difficulty can be a source of frustration for vegans looking to grow fruits and veggies. Below are four tips for Texas gardeners to tackle the heat.

1. Make the Most of Shade

The main problem with gardening in Texas isn’t the soil or humidity; it’s the summer heat. In August, you can expect temperatures to reach triple digits on most days. That’s just too much time in direct sunlight for many plants. Delicate herbs, especially, don’t stand a chance. So, if you want to try gardening in Texas, figure out which side of your house or apartment gets the most shade during the late parts of the day and turn that space into your gardening haven.

2. Use More Mulch Than Usual

Keeping plants watered when temperatures are high can feel downright impossible. As soon as you water your plants, it seems like the sun just evaporates everything. The trick is to choose your watering times carefully and put down a thick layer of mulch around your plants to protect their roots. The mulch will help keep the sun from getting to the water before your plants can take a drink.

3. Slow Flow Irrigation Is Your Friend

It pays to install a slow-flow irrigation system for in-ground gardening. These systems allow water to drip into the ground near your plants over time. You won’t have to worry so much about staying on top of the watering during the hottest parts of the day, and your plants will get plenty of hydration.

4. Consider Installing a Greenhouse

Installing a greenhouse in your backyard could be worthwhile if you’re struggling with gardening. A greenhouse helps Texas gardeners tackle the heat by controlling where the sunlight comes from. Looking to set up a greenhouse quickly? Consider getting a versatile dome greenhouse to control pests and allow for customizable insulation.

Gardening in Texas can be difficult if you’re new to the region, but plenty of people make it work. Make sure to check out some books on Texas gardening and focus on plants that grow well in your zone.

Tips for Helping Your Kids Fall in Love With Camping

Are you excited to show your kids the world of camping? Give them the best experience with these tips for helping your kids fall in love with camping.

Do you remember your first camping trip? The world probably felt so big and full of adventure. Camping is a fantastic experience for kids, but not every child is eager to head out into the wilderness—especially if they’ve never done it before. How can you share this beloved hobby with your children and pass on your love for the outdoors? Make your family trips a success with these tips for helping your kids fall in love with camping.

Camp Young and Camp Often

You’re never too young to start camping. The earlier you expose your kids to camping, the easier it is for them to adjust to the experience and start to enjoy it. Remember, little kids love copying their parents and older siblings. If you’re excited about a trip, your little one will be, too.

Even if you can’t go on a full camping trip when your kids are young, you can still foster a love for outdoor adventure. Pitch a tent in the backyard, go on family hikes in your local parks, and find other ways to get your kids outside and exploring when they’re young.

Bring a Friend

Everything is better with a friend. Besides, what kid doesn’t love a sleepover? One of the best tips for helping your kids fall in love with camping is to let them invite a friend. In addition to getting to share the experience, your child will also have someone their age to hang out with throughout the trip. Having another kid around takes some extra planning, but it will make the experience even more fun and memorable for everyone involved.

Make Camping Comfortable

For some people, the fun of camping comes from roughing it out in the wilderness. However, your kids don’t have the same resilience for the outdoors as you do. There’s nothing wrong with taking it easy and planning a comfortable camping experience—especially when your kids are still learning the ropes. Make the new experience as fun and gentle as possible so your kids can focus less on surviving the wilderness and more on enjoying all of nature’s wonders.

Where Do I Start With Shooting As a Hobby?

Shooting can be an incredibly rewarding hobby. Refining your marksmanship skills and learning more about firearms can support other goals (like hunting or home defense). Still, no matter how you choose to employ your skills, shooting is an activity that consistently offers new challenges in fun environments.

Not sure where to start shooting as a hobby? This guide is here to help. Whether you’re looking to build up to hunting or simply incorporate a range day into your routine, we’re here to help you get started.

1. Get familiar with the basics

If you aren’t familiar with firearms or have never shot before, start by learning the basics. Today’s new shooters can employ one or more of the following methods to get their bearings in the world of firearms:

  1. Finding a community at a local range – We’ll explore more benefits of finding a local range in the next section.
  2. Taking a course – Consider signing up for an Intro to Shooting, Concealed Carry Permit, or Hunters’ Safety course to learn more about shooting, firearms, and safety.
  3. Finding information online – Doing online research can help you learn more about the basics, find an in-person community in your area, or prepare for an organized course.

2. Find a shooting range near you

The best way to practice shooting as a newcomer is to visit a local range: a facility where shooters can discharge their weapons in a safe, supervised setting.

But a range serves a few different purposes: You can visit to practice your skills, meet people with similar interests, and learn more about local resources for shooters in your area.

Meeting other hobbyists is an excellent way to learn more and get feedback and support as you develop shooting knowledge and skills. Perhaps the best part of learning to shoot is getting to know other shooters: people who can connect you with resources, provide tips, or even let you try out their firearms.

3. Source a firearm

If you’re interested in shooting, you’ll need access to a firearm.

Continue reading “Where Do I Start With Shooting As a Hobby?”

Common Issues To Prepare for When Camping

No camping trip goes perfectly, but you can prepare ahead of time to make sure it goes smoother. Learn about the common issues to prepare for when camping.

Going camping can be a fun experience for everyone, but it also requires a lot of preparation. Before you find yourself fixin’ to leave for the woods, review these common issues to prepare for when camping. You will be glad you did!

Getting Lost on a Hike

One common issue people encounter when camping is losing their way while hiking. Although they started the hike with the intention of not going very far, they found themselves far away from their campsite with no idea how to get back.

You can avoid this issue by becoming familiar with the routes at your camping site as soon as you arrive. It’s also a good idea to bring a compass and locate the local landmarks to help you while hiking. If other people go with you, try not to let your conversation with them distract you from where you’re going. With these precautions, you’ll be less likely to lose your way.

Not Bringing Enough Food

Another mistake people make while camping is not bringing enough food. Although they reckoned they brought enough food before leaving, they discovered later that they didn’t. There are ways to prevent this from happening.

One thing to do is write a packing list several days before your trip that includes the food. That way, you can check the list to be certain the food is in your camper where it should be. Afterward, if you are still worried about not bringing enough food to the wilderness, try bringing more than you need.

Locking Yourself Out of Your Camper

A third issue to prepare for while camping is locking yourself out of your camper. Fortunately, you can prepare by bringing a spare set of keys. Alternatively, if you have experience picking locks, you can consider buying a lock pick set to bring with you. The set will allow you to easily let yourself into your vehicle instead of traveling to find the nearest locksmith.

Becoming Sick or Injured

It is also common for campers to become unexpectedly sick or injured on their trips. You can prepare for this by ensuring you have packed a first aid kit stocked with all the necessary supplies and medications. You should also review food safety guidelines so you can avoid food poisoning.

If you prepare beforehand, you will have a better chance of avoiding common issues on your camping trip. That will make things smoother, helping you and your camping companions have a much better time in nature.

Incredible Wildlife Parks To See in Texas

Texas is a beautiful state with much to offer. Animal lovers may want to plan a trip and check out some of these incredible parks to see some amazing wildlife.

Texas is a vast state with some amazing animals. There’s a park for you; whether you want to see exotic creatures from far-off lands or want to admire some animals you’re likely only to see in the Lone Star State. Here are a few incredible wildlife parks to see in Texas and some of the animals that you may encounter.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Austwell is a fantastic park for those who want to experience rare animals. This park is one of the only places on earth where guests may encounter the critically endangered whooping crane. While guests are in the area, they may also want to swing by the nearby coastal regions for a chance to see dolphins.

Ann W. Richard Congress Avenue Bridge

While not distinctly a park on its own, those looking to see wildlife around Lake Travis may want to swing by Austin in the summer and walk the Ann W. Richard Congress Avenue Bridge. This bridge is the largest urban colony of bats in the world, and those interested in seeing the beauty of them flying through the night skies won’t want to miss the opportunity.

Franklin Drive-Thru Safari

Some of the most incredible wildlife parks to see in Texas allow you to experience animals from far-off lands. Texas is home to many exotic wildlife parks, with the Franklin Drive-Thru Safari being one of the best experiences. The drive-thru park has over 1,000 animal species, such as zebras, giraffes, camels, and kangaroos. It even has designated areas where guests may walk around and interact more closely with the animals. It’s an incredible experience for any animal lover and one you don’t want to miss.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

The Big Bend Ranch State Park is the largest park in Texas and has positively breathtaking landscapes and scenery for visitors to take in. Additionally, those wanting to see some wild animals won’t leave disappointed. Guests may frequently see mule deer, collared peccary, gray foxes, jackrabbits, and desert cottontails. Keep your camera ready when you head to this park because there’s something beautiful around every bend.

6 Tips For Hunting in the Snow

Every year as fall rolls around, a new hunting season begins. The early season can be a mix of hot, warm, and cool temperatures but eventually, as the calendar flips into November winter and snow are inevitably on their way. This will give many hunters challenges that they haven’t had to face yet this season. There are even many hunters that opt to stay home instead of braving the colder weather.

Here are our six top tips for hunting in the snow.

1.           Research Ahead of Time

You do not want to wake up the morning of a big hunt just to discover it has snowed several inches overnight. This will lead to panic, and you are sure to forget something essential.

If you have checked the weather forecast ahead of time and know the snow is coming, you can get all your essential gear gathered up and ready to go.

2. Dress to Stay Warm

Dress in layers. I’m sure you’ve heard this before, but this is so important that it cannot be overstressed. Having the versatility to add or remove a layer can make the difference between spending all day in the field or coming in hours ahead of time to get comfortable.

Wear a hood. I always make sure my mid-layer or jacket has a hood of some type on it. There is nothing worse than having snow down your neck. On really cold or extra windy days, I opt to wear a balaclava. By covering my head, neck, and face, the warmth is kept against my body.

3. Break Out the Blind

Many times, when it is snowing, the wind is also blowing. Being in an open, elevated stand may not be the warmest option. Being in the cover of a blind will likely extend your bow hunting session.  The blind will block out the snowfall and wind, helping to shield you from the elements.

A small, portable heater may also be used to aid in staying warm.

4. Pack Extra Food and Snacks

It is always important to keep your body fueled but never more than when hunting in the snow.  Consuming the extra calories will help your body stay warm. I am sure we all have our favorite hunting snacks but mine are jerky, trail mix, nuts, and snack cakes.

Another food hack is taking some hot soup in a thermos. It is amazing how a cup full of warm chicken noodles can make you feel. It can really knock the shivers off.

5. Hand Warmers

Are you noticing a pattern here? Anything you can do to stay warm and comfortable is a plus when it comes to snow hunting.

I have used both the hot hands and the newer rechargeable style, as well. Both have their applications. I like the disposable ones for my boots while the rechargeables work well in my pockets and hand muff.

 It is important to moderate these if you can. If you plan to stay out all day, you don’t want to use up all your hand warmers in the first two hours of your sitting.

6. Still Hunting

This is one of my favorite things to do in the snow. You can dress lightly and still be pretty comfortable while walking.

Many times, game will hunker down in the snow. They will also be easier to spot with snow on the ground. A good tactic is to slowly walk old trails or roads while scanning out ahead for spooked or bedded game.

I have two particular favorite spots for this type of hunting. One is where I can sneak along and watch the hillside below me. Many times, I have snuck up on a bedded herd of deer that had no idea I was there. The second is a lower trail where I can not only watch out ahead of me but also on both sides of the hollow. This allows me to cover more area at one time, but many times it will involve jumping the deer and hoping they stop at some point to offer a shot opportunity.

Take What Nature Throws at You

I hope some of these tips will help you to be successful the next time you have the hunt in the snow. Anything you can do to not only get out in the snow but also stay out there will help increase your chances of having a successful hunt and season. Being able to take what nature throws at you will make you a better hunter and improve your chances of success.

Environmentally-Friendly Tips for Your Next Camping Trip

Camping outdoors is a great way to experience nature, and you can make your next camping trip more environmentally friendly with a few methods.

You can take a camping trip in countless places in the Lone Star State, and ensuring you respect nature is essential for keeping camping sites clean. By using eco-friendly ways, you’ll improve your next outdoor adventure and ensure you don’t negatively impact nature. Read on to learn some environmentally-friendly tips for your next camping trip.

Prepare Your Meals Before Hitting the Road

Food is one of the most valuable resources at your campsite, and you can ensure the packaging is safe for the environment. Make your food at home before leaving, and package it in reusable plastic containers.

Prepare food to make over a fire in a skillet or saucepan. While cooking food using grills and propane tanks is easier, the fumes will enter the atmosphere and contribute to climate change. Use fire to cook your prepared meals for an environmentally safe way to keep your belly full and nature safe.

Bring Reusable Items

Reusability is a great way to help the environment and ensure you don’t produce waste that may harm the ecosystem. Bring reusable water bottles to stay hydrated, and eat with reusable cutlery and plates instead of paper products. You can clean your reusable plates and utensils at most campsites, whether in a wash area or at your campsite, with soap and water. Plastic water bottles that don’t make it to the recycling center will threaten wildlife and take decades to break down. Keep waste to a minimum while camping and bring reusable items for the trip, making clean-up and organization easier.

Use Solar Panels for Energy

Electricity is scarce while camping, and you’ll only have a few resources for energy, such as generators and batteries. Using solar panels is an environmentally-friendly tip for your next camping trip. They will supply you with energy by harnessing the sun’s power. Sunlight creates energy for your electronics, making electronic usage easy.

Since sunny weather is common in most areas of Texas throughout the year, solar panels will greatly improve your camping experience. Set up these panels at your campsite in an open space, or place them on your vehicle. Solar panels are ideal for making your RV more energy-efficient. You’ll benefit from the sun’s rays and protect nature by using clean energy.

Your camping experience is one of the best ways to connect with nature, so ensure you don’t negatively impact the ecosystem. Use these tips for your next camping trip, and keep the environment as beautiful as it was when you arrived.

5 Tips for Hunting Day Trips With an Air Gun

Airguns are exploding in popularity around the country. From the gun’s precision to its relatively muted sound when fired, it’s the perfect alternative to a traditional rifle.

The best part? You can use airguns as a hunting weapon. In fact, airguns are the ideal option for small game hunting because they are slightly less powerful and have lower recoil than traditional rifles. This not only means you’ll have better accuracy, but it also increases the likelihood the animal will remain intact after you’ve taken it down.

If you’re planning on taking an airgun out on your next hunt, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1.  Understand Airgun Hunting Laws in your State

Before doing anything else, be sure to check your state’s laws for airgun hunting.

While it’s true they are a bit less powerful than conventional firearms, many modern,  technologically-advanced airguns can pack a major punch. Laws and regulations vary from state-to-state, with different species of animals typically having different caliber requirements.

Thankfully, there’s no shortage of resources available detailing state airgun laws. As you plan your hunt, check your state laws and make sure your gun meets various caliber requirements.

2.  Choose your Pellets Wisely

Believe it or not, you can hunt big game with airguns. If you’re planning to challenge yourself with hunting deer, though, you need to make sure you have the right ammo.

There are three broad categories of ammunition: pellets, round balls, and cast bullets. If you’re planning to hunt small game, you should almost certainly use pellets. Pellets are generally more accurate and fly faster, which makes them a solid choice for small game hunting. Pellets come in four shapes, including:

  • Round Nose
  • Pointed
  • Flat Pellets

Round balls and cast bullets, on the other hand, are intended for big game hunting. They need to be at least 30 caliber in diameter and weigh at least 150 grains. Unlike pellets, round balls and cast bullets slow down much less slowly than pellets when fired from a powerful airgun. The higher velocity (at least 800 fps) increases the chances you’ll bring down the bigger animal.

3.  Consider your Distance

In many ways, airgun hunting is a refresher in one of the most basic laws of physics: force equals mass times acceleration. As time passes, acceleration (and force) gradually decrease.

Continue reading “5 Tips for Hunting Day Trips With an Air Gun”

The 4 Types of Marine Battery Cells for Your Boat

Boaters need reliable marine batteries to not get stranded during a trip. Learning about the main battery cell types will help you establish a quality setup.

There’s nothing better than getting your boat out on the water to enjoy the weather. However, ensuring it starts every time is crucial if you want to have a good time. With so many different types of battery cells, it can be hard to decide which to purchase. These are the four types of marine battery cells for your boat that you should know about.

Lithium-Ion

Lithium-ion batteries are standard cell types in many modern consumer devices. Cell phones, e-bikes, and power tools are just a few of the most common applications. Lithium-ion battery cells work great in boats since they have a high energy density and long life.

The biggest problem with lithium-ion batteries is that they can overheat and cause fires, making it essential to inspect them before and after each use. Also, getting a cell designed for deep cycling is crucial to avoid getting stranded.

Wet-Cell

Traditional wet-cell batteries are much cheaper than lithium-ion batteries since they have such a simple design. However, you’ll need to learn to properly care for them, as they may need refilling occasionally. They also have a lower cycle time than other options, making replacements more frequent.

The best thing about wet-cell batteries is that you can overcharge them without damaging the cell. However, not just any wet-cell battery will work in a marine environment, which is why you should never use a car battery on your boat.

AGM

Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries have a specialized glass mat between the positive and negative plates to absorb the electrolyte. This design enables the cell to exist in a dry rather than liquid state, which is less prone to spilling.

AGM batteries are perfect for marine environments since their design is more robust. They’re less likely to build up sulfate deposits, making them more reliable when out from shore. Dry-cell technology also produces a higher power output and shorter charging time, making them better suited to boating than their wet-cell counterparts.

Gel-Cell

Like an AGM cell, a gel battery doesn’t contain any liquid. Instead, manufacturers mix the electrolyte with silica to create a solid substance that is much less prone to spilling. Gel cells require very little maintenance and have a long lifespan, making them great for a worry-free boating experience.

The downside of gel cells is that they have a higher upfront cost, so you’ll pay more at purchase. You’ll also need to purchase specialized equipment to keep the cell charged. However, since they’re so reliable, it’s well worth the investment.

Make Sure You’re Prepared To Charge Your Battery While Boating

It doesn’t matter what type of battery you have if it goes dead while on the water. Having a set of jumpers, extra cells, and a way to contact the shore will allow you to stay safe while having fun.

With so many different types of marine battery cells for your boat, we hope this guide was helpful in clarifying the most important ones. Learn all you can before setting out!

What Features To Look For in an Outdoor Knife

You can pick out some things in a store or online on a whim, but an outdoor knife shouldn’t be one of them. Look for these features in an outdoor knife.

Every camper, hunter, and outdoor adventurer understands the importance of a good outdoor knife. It can help you cut down timber, prep food, and save your life in a pinch. You want to avoid picking out a bad one because you could end up with a broken knife before you know it. So, what features make an optimal outdoor or survival knife? Here are the features to look for in an outdoor knife.

Find a Comfortable Ergonomic Handle

A good handle should fit comfortably in your hand. None of the ridges or shapes should poke your palm or fingers, nor should it slip out easily. Look for materials like wood, rubber, and Micarta. Micarta is excellent because it provides an optimal grip and won’t slip when wet.

Handles made from natural elements, like bone and wood, will provide a visually pleasing aesthetic but are prone to breakage and cracking. It’s something to think about as you’re looking at outdoor knives.

A Thick Blade

The thicker the blade, the more stress it can handle without bending or breaking. This feature means it can tackle a variety of tasks with ease. The advantage doesn’t come without a disadvantage. Of course, a thicker blade means a heavier knife, which affects usage and carrying.

Fixed Blades Are Better for Outdoor Knives

Folding knives are perfect for everyday carry (EDC), but a fixed blade will be valuable for many outdoor tasks, especially in survival situations. The joint of a folding knife makes it weaker than the fixed blade. It will help you chop, pry, pound, thrust, and rigorously cut through almost anything. It’s a knife you’ll want to have when you’re out hunting, cutting wood, or doing other outdoor tasks.

Look for Knives With a Full Tang

A full tang knife means the knife maker constructed the blade and handle using a continuous piece of metal. A full tang knife will perform better and be more durable than partial tang options. These styles include:

  • Rat-tail tang
  • Half tang
  • Push tang

Knifemakers add grips and scales to create a comfortable grip for the user.

Size Does Matter

When it comes to an outdoor knife, size does matter, but it’s important to note that bigger isn’t always better—a large blade sacrifices effective usage for detailed tasks, like carving precision and dressing small game.

On the other hand, small blades won’t perform well with rugged outdoor tasks like chopping. Look for knives nine to 11 inches long. This measurement includes the handle. So, you could have a six-inch blade with a four-inch handle, equaling 10 inches altogether.

Now that you understand what features to look for in an outdoor knife, it’s time to purchase one. Start by looking at survival knife sales because you’ll find excellent options at discounted prices. If you can’t find what you want, move on to the regularly priced knives to continue your search.