Texas Outdoors, Author at Texas Outdoors

8 Necessities for Crossbow Hunters Going Backpack Hunting

If you’re a veteran crossbow hunter, you have probably had days out in the woods you didn’t want to end. With backpack hunting, they don’t have to.

Here are a few must-haves for any crossbow hunter planning a backpack trip.

1. First-Aid Supplies

“Safety first” is a phrase you’ve likely heard many times before. But it’s true.

There’s no predicting what can happen on an overnight hunting trip. From cuts to sprains to breaks — and even sunburn — there are a number of risks every hunter faces while out in the wilderness. Make sure you bring along an emergency first-aid kit capable of addressing some of the most common injuries.

2. Extra Clothes — and an Airtight Container to Store them in

Temperatures can drop quickly when the sun goes down. And, you can’t ignore the possibility of rain or snow dampening your hunting trip. Make sure you’re ready.

As you’re packing your camo hunting gear, include at least one pair of pants and a shirt for each day of your hunt. Bring along two pairs of socks for each day since they are more likely to get wet than any other article of clothing. Be sure to also bring along clothes for both warm and cold weather. After they’re worn, store dirty clothes in airtight containers to prevent bears and deer from catching your scent.

3. Storage Case for Your Crossbow

The elements damage your crossbow if it isn’t properly stored. Be sure to choose the right storage solution before leaving for your hunt.

Modern crossbows are made up of many different parts that can easily get damaged if exposed to the rain, heat, or cold. Arrows and broadheads are also susceptible to weather damage. Luckily, there are cases available for each component. Find the right ones for your crossbow and bring them along with you on the hunt.

4. Replacement Parts for Your Crossbow

As durable as today’s high-tech crossbows are, their components can wear out and break over time. Don’t let a minor malfunction ruin your hunt.

Before hitting the road for your back hunting trip, don’t forget to pack an extra set of crossbow strings and cables. While they will certainly add some bulk to your backpack or case, you’ll be happy you were prepared if you run into any technical difficulties along the way.

5. A Water Filter

Dehydration can put a damper on any backpack hunt. Rather than carrying along packs of water bottles, try using a water filter.

With a water filter, you can source your water from creeks and rivers that would otherwise be unsafe to drink from. Water filters also come in a range of sizes, with some designed to allow the user to drink directly out of a stream and others for drawing larger amounts of water into a tank for storage. Find a filter that is light enough to carry but functional enough for any environment.

6. The Right Backpack

3 Different Types of Competitive Shooting

Competitive shooters can fire with rifles, pistols, and shotguns to test different skills. Discover three different types of competitive shooting here.

Shooting competitions can test the shooter’s accuracy, speed, and decision-making. Join a competition to improve your firearm skills in a fun and challenging environment. Learn about three different types of competitive shooting and consider getting into this activity.

Survival Tactics Needed When in the Wilderness

Surviving in the wilderness becomes easier with the right knowledge, skills, and basic materials. Discover survival tactics you need for the wilderness.

Not everyone knows how to make it in the wild. Most people need to learn how to build a camp and shelter and develop the skills needed to forage for water and food. When you’re left with nothing but your instincts and the bare essentials to beat the odds, you soon realize how difficult it can be to make it with such few resources. That’s why everyone should learn about survival tactics needed when in the wilderness; you never know when you might be in a situation that is out of your hands.

Things To Remember When Dock Fishing at Night

Going fishing is fun anytime, but it’s especially exciting at night. Here’s what you’ll need to consider if you’re fishing from a dock after sunset.

Fishing at night has many advantages. For starters, some fish species are more active once the sun sets, and you don’t have to deal with glare.

One of the best places to try night fishing is from a dock. Read on to learn a few things to remember when dock fishing at night.

Use the Right Bait

The bait you use will play significantly into whether you catch anything. Different fish species have unique behaviors and preferences that you must consider. You won’t get any bites if you’re trying to attract fish with something they’re not interested in.

It’s essential to match your live bait or lure to the types of fish in the area. Carefully select lures according to the type of fish you want to catch. If you’re using live bait, you should catch it from a natural environment or purchase it with the help of a local supplier to ensure fish take an interest in your line.

Bring a Light

Bright lights attract tiny creatures that fish feed on. If you shine a light and bring these creatures to the surface, the fish will follow, giving you a clearer picture of what’s in the water. This technique also allows you to tailor your line to the local population.

The type of light you use can significantly affect your overall fishing experience. LEDs, HIDs, and other types of lighting may require additional maintenance, depending on your setup. While many options are available, knowing how to choose the right dock fishing lights will give you an excellent place to start.

Fish Right at Dusk and Dawn

While fishing during the dead of night can have its perks, hitting the sweet spot just after the sun goes down or right before it rises will allow you to get your pole in the water when the fish are at their most active.

Changing light levels trigger active feeding in most fish populations, making dawn and dusk the perfect times to drop a line. Fishing from a dock during these periods provides a quiet, comfortable experience with plenty of opportunities to snag a big catch.

Remember To Stay Safe While Fishing at Night

Although night fishing can be a lot of fun, there are some things to be aware of. Bring a floatation device, even if you aren’t planning to go into the water, and don’t leave your gear sitting around where you can trip over it.

The most important thing to remember when dock fishing at night is that you need a reliable light source. Otherwise, you can fish with all your favorite techniques and enjoy unique catches!

How To Prep Your Subaru Vehicle for Off-Roading

Are you looking to take your Subaru off the beaten path and into the great outdoors? Get your Subaru ready for off-roading with our handy prep guide.

Subarus are excellent vehicles for off-roading, but they’re not ready to tackle the great outdoors in Texas immediately. Before you take your vehicle off the beaten path, learn how to prep your Subaru vehicle for off-roading with added clearance, new tires, and armor.

Add a Lift Kit

If you plan on traversing dirt, mud, gravel, and rocky terrain, your Subaru will need extra clearance. A lift kit is essential for any vehicle you plan to take off-roading because it helps protect the crucial components of the vehicle’s undercarriage.

Even a small lift kit could make a difference on Subarus, and if you’re planning on navigating exceptionally rocky terrain, you may want to consider more lift. Better ground clearance means better protection, giving your Subaru better departure angles while driving.

Get New Tires

You can’t venture into the great outdoors on the same normal tires built for streets and paved roads. If you want to prep your Subaru vehicle for off-roading the tough Texas terrain, you will need to upgrade your tires.

Every off-road vehicle needs quality, durable, and capable tires to tackle the dirt, mud, and rock it’ll come across while off-roading. Texas mud can be especially treacherous. Off-road drivers have a few options, but if it’s your first time, some typical all-terrain tires are likely the best option for your Subaru.

Pro Tip: If you plan on navigating extreme off-road conditions, such as heavy mud, dirt, and boulders, consider using heavy-duty mud-terrain tires to gain better traction.

Install a Skid Plate

While the extra ground clearance will help protect your Subaru’s under-chassis, it’ll still face potentially damaging brush and boulders while off-roading. Every off-roader should install a skid plate to protect the critical components of your Subaru’s undercarriage.

A skid plate defends the crucial components and parts of your Subaru’s undercarriage, like the drivetrain and engine pan, from damage caused by rocks and other obstacles. Skid plates are relatively affordable, easy to install, and worthwhile for your Subaru.

Mount a Bull Bar

Speaking of armor for your Subaru, it’s also beneficial to mount some protection to the front end of your vehicle. When off-roading the great outdoors of Texas, you’ll likely come across a lot of brush, dirt, dust, gravel, and who knows what else.

All this debris can significantly damage your vehicle’s front end, so a bull bar is an essential protection for many off-roaders. Like skid plates, bull bars are easy to find and mount, and these additions go a long way in protecting your Subaru. If you plan to off-road at night or early in the morning, consider a bull bar with lights attached for better visibility.

Ways To Make a Camping Easier for First-Timers

Camping is a great way to experience the wonderful parts of nature, and for first-timers, some tips will help you have an easier camping experience.

Spending time outdoors is a great time to relax and surround yourself with a different setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city or suburbs. But if it’s your first time camping, you may experience difficulty adjusting to the new setting. Fortunately, there are ways to make camping easier for your first time, so continue reading for some helpful advice.

Bring Along Games for Some Fun

The outdoors has numerous places for you to hike and see natural marvels. Frequent campers will love these parts of the camping experience, but the time outside may feel a little unpleasant and drab for those on their first camping trip. With the help of a fun game that everyone can play, time in the outdoors will feel more enjoyable.

Bringing a deck of playing cards will give you access to dozens of games to play with people, such as poker, rummy, or spoons. If you plan to go camping alone, a game of solitaire or pyramid will suit your solo adventure. Overall, it’s easier to become accustomed to an unfamiliar setting when you have a game to distract you.

Make Sure the Spot You Pitch Your Tent Is Comfortable

To prevent a bad night of sleeping outside, you need to make sure you choose a comfortable area to set up your tent. Find a spot with level ground and no rocks or twigs sticking up. Grassy areas have a nice cushioned feeling, but you should still check for uncomfortable protrusions near the soil’s surface.

You should also use mattresses and other soft paddings to improve sleeping conditions. However, a comfortable setup for your tent may require more equipment, which makes increased storage space in your vehicle a necessity.

A roof rack will carry larger tents and a mattress to place on the tent’s floor for a nice cushion. Knowing how to roof-rack anything will ensure you have all the items you need to make yourself comfortable outdoors.

Set Up an Anti-Insect Area

You’ll find bugs everywhere in nature, from the ground to the air to the trees. Flying insects such as mosquitoes and wasps may become a persistent problem as you camp, making your time outdoors annoying.

Create a perimeter around your campsite to keep bugs out and make your first time camping easier. Use a mosquito net or an insect-repellent machine that will keep bugs away in an odorless manner. Cover your entire camping area or designate a specific area to be your bug-free zone.

Your first time camping may be difficult, and getting used to the outdoors will require a few camping trips. But with these methods, you’ll find camping more fun and enjoy the relaxing environment away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Best Games To Play at a Barbeque With Friends

If you find yourself around a campfire with a group of friends at a barbeque, you’ll find games will be present. These games are a great way to come together.

Everyone has been to at least one barbeque, and nothing is quite like them. Nothing is better than getting together with friends after work to celebrate whatever you feel like over great food and refreshing drinks.

Some of the other things you might find are great games you might not otherwise play. If you’re looking for a good time, here are some of the best games to play at a barbeque with friends.

Giant Jenga for Adults

A timeless classic supersized is the game of Jenga! This game focuses on an individual’s ability to remove blocks effectively without causing the tower to crash. While it might sound like a huge stress bomb, it’s actually a great stress relief! Even if you don’t succeed and witness the blocks crashing in front of you, the good news is you can always stack them and go again and again.

Tug-of-War Is a Classic

This classic game is more of a team builder where everyone will need to participate. The toughest part of this game is picking sides and forming teams. You’ll build new relationships and strengthen old ones with this game. Because it’s a team game, you can continually develop new teams and challenges lasting for hours—a true classic for any memorable backyard barbeque.

Bean Bag Toss for the Win

One of the more up-and-coming games would have to be cornhole or bean bag toss. This game takes a little more finesse, having to toss a bean bag into a hole roughly twenty to thirty feet from you.

While it might sound simple enough, it can become challenging after a few throws—and the competition gets steeper the longer the game goes on. This challenge rings true if you’re playing game after game with seemingly no end in sight, which might be a sign you’re obsessed with cornhole. Though, it isn’t the worst problem to have.

These are just some of the best games to play at a barbeque with friends if you are looking for extra entertainment for your barbeque. As simple as they seem, these games are well worth your time while hanging out with friends.

Essential Items To Include in Your Survival Kit

You never know when you’ll be in a situation of survival, so it helps to prepare. Here are a few essential items to include in your survival kit.

When you are preparing to survive an emergency, it is essential that you have a well-stocked survival kit. This kit should include all the necessities for keeping yourself safe and comfortable in a variety of environments. This comprehensive checklist helps provide peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens during an unexpected event or disaster scenario, you have access to all the items needed to stay alive. Here are the essential items to include in your survival kit.

First Aid Supplies

Access to a small emergency medical kit can be invaluable during an unexpected event. This kit could include antiseptic wipes and creams, wound dressings for minor cuts and abrasions, burn relief ointment or lotion, antihistamine tablets to combat allergic reactions or insect bites, and a thermometer for taking temperatures. Tourniquets, scissors, and medical tape can also be beneficial to have. You will be ready for any potential accidents or injuries with the right items in your first aid kit.

Food and Water

You will also want to have a long-term supply of food and water. This supply could include protein bars, dehydrated meals you can rehydrate with boiling water for quick nutrition, and canned goods such as tuna or salmon. Snacks such as nuts, trail mix, and beef jerky are also beneficial as they provide essential sources of fat and protein on the go. You will also need a supply of safe drinking water. It’s helpful to know how much water you should stock for an emergency so you have as much as you need.

Clothing and Shelter

You cannot overlook the importance of proper clothing and shelter when planning for any type of survival situation. We recommend having pieces you can layer for warmth during cold nights. In addition to warm clothing, you should include a tarp or tent in your survival kit, as these protect you from wind, rain, and other outdoor elements.

Hunting Gear

In a survival situation, you never know what you might run into or how long your food supply will last. Therefore, it’s helpful to keep hunting gear on hand if need to look for other food sources. Ensure you keep a weapon, such as a firearm or a crossbow, and the appropriate ammunition nearby. You must also ensure you know how to safely and properly handle these weapons to avoid potential accidents. Therefore, taking a firearm safety course to learn the procedures can be beneficial.

Now that you know what items to include in your survival kit, you can begin collecting supplies today. Make sure you check all the necessities off your list, so you’re ready for anything.

Your Comprehensive Guide to Recurve vs. Compound Crossbows

With so many crossbow options out there, it can be challenging to find the right bow for your needs. Check out this guide to learn more about the differences between recurve and compound crossbows to make a better choice!

Basics of a Recurve Crossbow

A recurve crossbow is the simplest style of crossbow. They have two horizontal limbs on a basic stock and barrel. Their name comes from the shape of the limbs, as they curve away from the front of the bow before curving back in an “s” shape.

Most recurve crossbows are on the larger side with incredibly high speeds that can reach over 300 fps – with minimal mechanical add-ons like cables or cams.

Pros of the Recurve

Most people who hunt with a recurve crossbow prefer it because of its reliability, light weight, and straightforward design.

Because the mechanics of this type of bow are so simple, there’s not much that can go wrong. Even with wear and tear over thousands of shots, a recurve crossbow is much less likely to break down in the field. If it does break, they’re super easy to fix. From restringing to basic maintenance, you can do it all yourself; you almost never need to take it to a specialty shop.

Even though they’re physically bigger, recurves are lighter than their compound counterparts. They’re just the limbs and the bowstring, which means less material to carry over long, multi-day hunts.

And, for hunters on a budget, recurve crossbows tend to be less expensive due to their simple design. More premium options with more features will obviously increase the price, but you can get basic models far below the prices of compound crossbows.

Cons of the Recurve

Most Dangerous Wild Animals You May Encounter on a Hike

It helps to learn about the most dangerous wild animals you may encounter on a hike so that you can alter your path if you approach troubled territory.

It’s awesome to see Mother Nature up close and personal, even if it comes with wild animals. Taking note of the most dangerous wild animals you may encounter on a hike ensures that you won’t be ignorant of what can harm you.

There’s a Snake in My Boot

You’d be hard-pressed to make it through a hike in Texas and not see a snake slithering on your path. You want to have a keen eye for three snakes: the western diamondback rattlesnake, the copperhead, and the cottonmouth.

A nibble from any of the three snakes may leave the victim seriously ill if not taken care of immediately. Avoiding a snake doesn’t require much effort. Snakes rarely go out of their way to attack and usually slide away from loud shouts and movements—although you shouldn’t tempt fate.

Armed and Dangerous

Armadillos are shy, often easygoing animals that get a lot of attention due to their adorable appearance. However, don’t let their cute, beady eyes fool you because they come with baggage. Armadillos carry numerous diseases that may be deadly in their early stages.

Fortunately, many ailments they can spread are manageable if not curable with the proper medical treatment. In any case, you should still appreciate their cuteness from afar. They have poor vision but immaculate hearing, so you don’t want to frighten them with brash movements.

Born To Be Wild Hogs

There are few things as unpredictable as a feral hog. While the wild hog’s smaller than other animals, its tusk can do serious damage. Steer clear of any surrounding area that a hog may be in. Look for indicators like foraging remnants, scat droppings, footprints, and sleeping sites.

These are only a handful of broad signals of their existence; each species has additional indications to search for. Also, many of these creatures roam in packs, so leaving the area is always the wiser move. But if you are venturing into an area with hogs, you’re better off having a tactical backpack over a hiking one because you’ll have easier access to self-defense tools.

Watch Out for Those Coyotes

Coyotes are scavengers; they’re always on the hunt for their next meal. If coyotes smell a future meal, a pack of them will flock to the area like a ball shot out of a cannon. Coyotes are opportunistic eaters who consume almost anything, whether living or dead, including waste, meat, fish, veggies, berries, and other conveniently accessible foods.

While coyotes are extremely suspicious of people, they may become used to them. Thus, they may have no issue stalking you on a trail if they sense the aroma of something they can munch on.

Next time you want to explore the great state of Texas, have your head on a swivel for the most dangerous wild animals you may encounter on a hike so that you can make it back in the same condition you left.

Essential Things To Consider When Buying a UTV

If you are thinking about purchasing a UTV, there is some important information you should know. Here are the essential things to consider when buying a UTV.

Utility task vehicles (UTVs) are a versatile and fun way to explore the outdoors. UTVs can be used for various tasks, such as hauling firewood, running errands around the farm, or just having off-road fun with family and friends. With their rugged construction and powerful engines, UTVs allow you to go places that cars can’t reach. They also come in different types and sizes so that you can find one that suits your needs. Here are the essential things to consider when buying a UTV.

The Different Types of UTVs

UTVs come in a variety of styles for different purposes and uses. The most common UTVs are utility UTVs, sports UTVs, and luxury UTVs. Utility UTVs are designed for work-related tasks, such as hauling supplies or equipment around a farm. They are typically larger and sturdier than other UTVs and feature 4WD capabilities. Sport UTVs are built for speed, agility, and maneuverability on off-road trails. These vehicles usually have long wheelbases that provide stability at higher speeds and increased suspension travel for better absorption over rough terrain. Luxury UTVs offer additional amenities, such as heated seats, sound systems, power steering, and alloy wheels. Luxury models also tend to have more safety features, such as roll cages and improved brakes.

Size and Features

When selecting a UTV, it is important to consider the size of the vehicle. If you are looking for something that can haul larger loads or accommodate more passengers, you will want to choose a UTV with a bigger bed and more cabin space. The type and power of the engine in your UTV also play an important role in how well it performs on different types of terrains. If you plan on tackling steep hills or challenging trails, look for a model with high torque and plenty of horsepower. This will ensure you don’t get stuck when climbing inclines or traversing rocky surfaces. Different models may come equipped with special performance features, such as four-wheel drive capabilities, independent suspension systems, adjustable shocks, and specialized tires.

Accessories and Customization

The right accessories can help enhance your experience in terms of comfort and performance when riding in a UTV. One of the other reasons UTV customization is important is that it ensures your vehicle caters to your specific environment and terrain. Popular accessory options include windshields for added protection from wind and dust, light bars for improved visibility after dark, and side mirrors that help you keep an eye on what’s behind you while navigating. There are also accessories that provide further vehicle protection, such as bumpers, fenders, rock sliders, and door kits. Add the customizations that best suit your needs.

Now that you know what to consider when purchasing a UTV, you can start the process today. Be sure to keep safety and performance in mind as you make your selection.

5 Tips for Owning and Caring for a New Boat

If you’re a new boat owner, there’s a lot to learn. From maintenance to gear, this post will give you essential tips for owning and caring for a new boat.

Before you set sail on your new boat, knowing the ins and outs of boat care is crucial to prevent damage, accidents, and other negative experiences. Here are a few tips for owning and maintaining a new boat.

Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Regular boat maintenance is one of the guaranteed ways to keep your boat operational for a long time. Take your boat care seriously by splitting your maintenance into easy activities and sticking to a regular cleaning schedule. For instance, if you sail your boat in salt water, you should spray it down with clean water after each voyage to prevent salt residue buildup.

Take Time Learning To Drive

A key responsibility for new boat owners is learning how to drive. Every boat has a different feel, so practicing in an empty lot before hitting the water is essential. Attach your boat to a trailer and learn the feel of your boat by practicing backing into a space and performing complex maneuvers. This will help you prepare for the open waters.

Get Boat Insurance

One crucial tip for owning a new boat is to get the necessary boat insurance. Similar to home, auto, and health insurance, liability insurance protects you and your boat from unfortunate incidents, such as fuel spills and boating accidents. Ensure you speak to a marine insurance specialist to explore various coverage options that fit your finances.

Practice Trailering Your Boat

Before you put your boat in the water and enjoy the splashing waves, you should learn how to trailer your boat. Some things to consider when storing a boat trailer include avoiding parking under trees, providing WD-40 lubrication to prevent rust, and using proper anti-thievery methods, so your boat stays safe. Further, ensure you’re prepared to tow your boat on your own, but don’t hesitate to ask experienced boaters for advice.

Purchase Safety Equipment and Gear

If you and passengers follow safety procedures, someone falling off the boat is unlikely. However, it’s always a possibility, as is unplanned damage to your craft. Therefore, ensure you always have the proper safety equipment and gear on board to keep you and your riders safe. Your boat should have PFDs, a first aid kit, essential spare parts, dock lines, fenders, and a standard tool set in storage.

New boat owners have a lot to learn, but following this advice will help you tackle the learning curve with ease. Take everything slowly and cautiously, and you’ll become a natural boat operator before you know it.