fishing guide and man with large fish

Fishing Guides | How To Choose One That Will Make Your Adventure One To Remember!

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, Fishing

When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, it’s hard to beat fishing.

However, if you’re a first-timer and are looking to make the most out of your fishing experience, hiring a fishing guide may be just the answer.

How to Find The Best Fishing Guide

fishing guide helping

An excellent fishing guide can make all the difference in your fishing experience. These professionals can give you valuable knowledge about finding the best fishing spots, ensuring an enjoyable and safe day on the water, and of course, helping you catch more fish!

Each fishing guide is different, and selecting a guide who fits your fishing trip needs is crucial.

To help you choose wisely, here are some of the ways to choose a reputable fishing guide…

Know Your Preferences And Goals

Before searching for a fishing guide, you must know what you wish to achieve during your fishing trip.

Do you want to catch a specific kind of fish? Or, do you prefer a particular type of fishing, such as winter season ice fishing, fly fishing, or even noodling?

These are some factors you should consider before starting your selection process. Create a list of your preferences and goals so you can choose a guide who’ll do everything they can to address them.

St Laurent fishing guide service

Ask The Ones In The Know

Even with the internet, word of mouth can still be the most valuable information when it comes to fishing guides.

5 men on fishing guide boat

Some of your friends or family members who enjoy fishing might have worked with a fishing guide before. If so, don’t hesitate to ask them for help. They may be able to connect you with an incredible fishing guide you would not have found otherwise.

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Fishing rod wraps like you’ve never seen HERE!

Browse Online And Social Media Platforms

In today’s digital world, almost all people have an online presence. With that in mind, it’s wise to browse online and social media platforms when choosing a guide.

Most reliable guides may have their own website and social media profiles to make booking easy and engage with clients smoothly.

man holding speckled sea trout wearing N1 Outdoors hat

Most reliable fishing guides may have their own website and social media profiles to make booking easy and engage with clients smoothly. However, just because a fishing guide service has its own website or social media presence, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s credible. This is why you must do a background check of sorts, as you browse their pages, to ensure you’re dealing with a legit professional.

However, just because a guide service has its own website or social media presence, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s credible. This is why you must do a background check of sorts, as you browse their pages, to ensure you’re dealing with a legit professional.

Some of the things you should consider as you browse the fishing guide’s website or profile are as follows:

  • Reputation – You can determine a guide’s reputation through word-of-mouth, testimonials, or reviews from previous and current clients. These types of feedback reflect the guide’s professionalism, attitude, effort, and personality. So, take time to read reviews and weigh the good and bad things about the guide to help you make the right choice.
  • Insurance Certificates And Licenses – Most fishing guides proudly display their certificates and proof of their license on their social media accounts and websites. If your preferred guide doesn’t have one, never hesitate to ask for the necessary documents that prove their accreditation or licensing.
  • Experience – Read more information about the guide’s experience in the industry. The more years they have worked as fishing guides, the better. This is especially true if it’s your first time going fishing in an unfamiliar area.

Although it takes time to search for a guide based on these factors, it can go a long way to making sure that you’re dealing with a professional who can provide you with quality service and give you the best value for your money. 

Awesome fishing shirts for every angler HERE!

Compare Cost Estimates

As a client, it’s your right to get a detailed cost estimate and compare it to other offers. Regardless of your budget, you should know what you’re paying for when you sign up with your prospective fishing guide.

Be sure that the estimate includes the time period, transportation cost, supplies provided, and other additional fees. If your prospective guide is reliable, they’ll be more willing to offer you the necessary details about their services and charges before they let you sign anything.

The best fishing movies of all time HERE!

Call Before Booking

If you’re still unsure about your choices, another way to select a good fishing guide is to give them a phone call before booking. Doing so will allow you to ask questions and feel the guide’s personality before heading to the fishing area.

If you’re clueless about what questions to ask, browse the guide’s website or social media profile for basic information. Don’t book until you are satisfied with the answers that have been provided to your questions.

Get the inside information on the best catfish baits HERE!

Fishing Guide Focus: Quality Service Over A Cheaper Price

The rates of fishing guides may vary widely, but cheaper isn’t always better. If you don’t want to be disappointed, focus more on getting quality service than the charges.

Other guides are pricey for a reason. It’s often because most of them have a well-established reputation and can guarantee clients the highest possible level of satisfaction as it relates to a successful fishing trip. So, it may be well worth it, even if you pay more than the average market rates.

So, what’s the BEST live bait for bass?

Know What Makes A Good Fishing Guide

man holding 2 flathead catfish

When choosing a fishing guide, it’s easy to pick one based on the rate and what you see online. But if you want to get the best value for your investment, knowing what makes an excellent guide may come in handy.

Here are the best characteristics of a fishing guide who deserves your time and hard-earned money:

  • Superb Work Ethic – A good guide doesn’t only go out on the water whenever someone hires them. They diligently spend time learning new tactics and searching for the best areas to fish. Guides may even try fishing during their free time to gain helpful tips and tricks that they can give to their clients.
  • Problem-Solving Skills – There will be days when you may not get as many fish as you wish. A characteristic of a good fishing guide is figuring out the problem and showing a determination to catch more fish, or a specific fish you want to catch.
  • Knowledge Of Local Waterways – Experienced guides should be extremely knowledgeable about the local waterways. Whether you’re wading in the water or cruising on a boat, they should know the areas where you can find and catch fish.

When you know the characteristics of a good fishing guide, it’ll be much easier to look around and choose the one you can work with. Aside from the rates and credibility, use the listed traits above as your basis when selecting a guide.

Benefits Of Having A Good Fishing Guide

Fishing is undoubtedly a great way to relax, enjoy nature, and engage in friendly competition. While you can go fishing yourself or with your friends, having a fishing guide can help you take your fishing to the next level.

Below are some of the advantages of having a fishing guide:

Ensured Safety

One of the perks of working with a fishing guide is that they can help you stay safe throughout your fishing trip. With their knowledge about the fishing area, they know the right spot to go and avoid troubling waters that may pose a threat to your safety. In addition, they can steer clear of obstacles, sandbars, or tides you’re unfamiliar with.

Have you tried THIS easy way to customize your rod?

They Can Help You Catch More Fish

While the thought of catching fish is exciting, it may not be as easy as you think. Unless you’re an expert angler already, you might not know about the intricacies of catching more fish.

man wearing N1 Outdoors hat holding rainbow trout

Experienced fishing guides often have years of experience that’ll help you improve your fishing skills. Not only do they know the fish to target, but they know the fishing spot you need to be in too.

Learn Special Techniques From Your Fishing Guide

If you’re afraid of fishing because of a lack of experience, you’ll find the service of a guide useful. These guides can teach you some valuable techniques and lessons to catch a fish and use your fishing equipment well. Plus, they can help you determine the best equipment to catch a specific fish.

You Get Offered Helpful Lure Advice

With the countless fishing equipment and accessories, you’ll find in the market, buying tools can be overwhelming. All the rods, reels, jigs, lines, and lures may look the same to beginners.

But, with a fishing guide, you’ll get helpful advice to ensure a successful fishing trip. And good guides know what works to catch more fish and which items don’t go well together.

It’s called the Trilene knot… Learn it HERE!

Everything’s More Convenient

For a first-timer, it can be inconvenient to learn the basics of fishing, particularly if you really want to go on a quick trip during your free time.

trout flipping

The good thing about working with fishing guides is that they offer convenience to everyone by taking care of the logistical details of the trip. In addition, they handle necessary arrangements, obtain permits and licenses, and provide other fishing equipment. This let’s you focus on, well, catching fish!

These are some of the many advantages of hiring a fishing guide for your trip. Although it is an additional expense, it can make your fishing experience more enjoyable without worrying about safety and other risks.

Check out hunting and fishing tips on the N1 Outdoors YouTube channel!

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Final Thoughts On Fishing Guides

Choosing a fishing guide can make or break your fishing experience. Follow the tips above to help you select the best one for your needs.

Happy fishing and we hope you put a hook N1!

trifecta fixed blade broadheads review

Trifecta Fixed Blade Broadheads Review [The “Perfecta” Broadhead?]

In this review, I tested a really cool broadhead called the Trifecta.

I had gotten quite a few requests for this, and I was able to connect with Rob Schneider, the owner of Trifecta, and the designer of this broadhead.

I was super excited to test these out!

For the testing of the Trifecta Fixed Blade broadheads, I I used my Bowtech CP28 set at 72 pounds. I used a Bishop FOC King Arrows for most of the shots, and the Bishop FAD Eliminators for the really hard impact stuff.

The Trifecta Fixed Blade Broadheads Up Close

Let’s zoom on in here and check out this cool-looking Trifecta Fixed Blade.

trifecta profile view

Here’s a good look at the Trifecta head. Man, this is one wicked-looking broadhead! So much to go through!

trifecta profile all steel construction

First of all, it’s all steel construction. It’s all made out of 420 stainless steel and it has a super short overall profile.

trifecta broadhead cut width

You get 1 and 1/4″ of cut one way, which is a really nice size cut for a fixed blade…

trifecta leading blade cut width

And, then you’ve got the leading blade that’s 3/8 of an inch of cut. So, the total cut is over 1.68″. The leading blade is really small, but it’s a stout 0.040″ of thickness, which is good on the upper end of thicknesses as far as blades are concerned...

trifecta broadhead main blade thickness

But, the main blade has a thickness of 0.078″. Wow! It’s almost twice as thick as the other blade. It’s more than twice as thick as most fixed blade heads on the market. So, I was really impressed with that.

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The main blade of the Trifecta is pretty vented in the 100-grain model. But, in the future, they’re coming out with 125-grain and a 150-grain that are going to be solid. So, I’m really looking forward to that.

But, with the current version’s blades being this thick, even though it’s vented, I imagine they are going to be pretty durable. And, I imagine that tip, because is supported so well, and it’s so small, that it’s going to be pretty durable too.

trifecta single bevel blades

The Trifecta has a nice, single beveling all the way around on both of the main blades and the front blade. So, they’re really easy to sharpen it because they’re at a really steep angle. I would imagine they are going to hold up well and not get much edge chatter because of the incline there to that bevel.

So, I love the fixed blade. But, what’s really cool about it is that you can just use the same ferrule and switch out the blades and put in a mechanical blade or a hybrid broadhead because there’s a fixed blade in the front, and then the mechanical blades in the back.

And, it either comes in this model which is 1.87″ of cutting diameter or this model that’s 1.65″ of cutting diameter.

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trifecta various models of fixed and expandables

The neat thing about the Trifecta heads is that you can switch out the fixed blade for expandables on the same ferrule.

So, you can just switch out the blades with the same steel ferrule, based on your setup and based on what you’re hunting. If you’re going after a smaller animal, you might want to use mechanical.

If you’re going after a bigger animal like a deer or elk, you may want to use the fixed blade or in between. There are all kinds of modularities to it. So, I love that!

But, for this test, I tested the fixed blade version.

Wonder what noises deer make? Check THIS out!

Trifecta Fixed Blade Testing

Let’s see how the Trifecta fixed blade broadheads performed!

Flight Forgiveness (1 Field Point, Then 1 Broadhead At 30 yards)  

The Trifecta had very forgiving flight in this test, with both the fixed blade and the field point hitting on top of each other.

Initial Sharpness Test

trifecta broadhead initial sharpness 225

For the out-of-the-box sharpness test, it took 225 grams of force to cut through the wire.

Penetration Test 1 (2/3″ rubber mat, 1/2″ MDF, FBI Gel)   

trifecta broadheads in ballistic gel

The Trifecta penetrated 8.5″ into the ballistic gel that was fronted with a rubber mat and 1/2″ MDF.

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Edge Retention Test (sharpness after Penetration Test 1):

trifecta post ballistic gel mdf sharpness test

It took no additional force to cut through the wire which gives it a 10 on a 10-point scale!

Penetration Test 2 (layered cardboard):

trifecta fixed blade broadheads layered cardboard penetration test

It penetrated through 61 layers of cardboard.

Angled Shot Test (1/4″ MDF/Carpet):

trifecta angled mdf test

The angled MDF test was no problem at all for the Trifecta.

HERE’s how to choose broadheads!

Durability Test (1/2″ MDF max 3 shots):

The head is in perfect condition after 3 shots through the MDF.

trifecta broadhead after 3x mdf

After 3 consecutive shots through the MDF, the Trifecta head was still in perfect condition!

THIS broadhead was also a high scorer!

Durability Test (22 gauge steel plate max 2 shots):

trifecta steel plate test

And after 2 shots through the steel plate, it held up extremely well. There’s just a slightest little nick in the blades.

And then check out these holes on the steel plate. Man! For a single bevel like this, that’s one of the best S-cutting I’ve ever seen. You could see the rotation of the blades opening up a really nice wound channel.

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Concrete Test:

trifecta broadheads concrete block test

I shot the Trifecta into a concrete block and it stuck!

trifecta broadheads fixed blade after concrete test

So here’s a good look at the head after going through the MDF 3 times, the steel plate 2 times, and then embedding in the concrete. And man, it held together very well. These thick blades did the job. Even with the rotation, it held together.

Sometimes with a hard impact in a single bevel rotation, you get a bit of twisting, but these blades are thick enough to where that didn’t happen.

The tip got a very slight bit of a twist to it from that rotation, but very, very little. Ane, the edges just have normal wear from hitting the concrete, but very impressive durability.

Figure out your draw length the EASY way!

Final Thoughts On The Trifecta Fixed Blade Broadheads

Well, what do you think?

Man, this is a winner of a broadhead!

There are a lot of broadheads that are kind of in the middle of the pack that you go, “Yeah, they did pretty good.” And, every once in a while, there’s that rare one that really stands out. This one definitely stands out!

I really was surprised. this head got the highest score of any fixed blade head that I’ve tested so far through 2022-2023.

trifecta fixed blade broadheads lusk scorecard

The Trifecta fixed blade was the highest scoring fixed blade broadhead that I’ve tested to date!

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So, these are really worth a look. I mean they flew incredibly well. I couldn’t believe how well they flew. Honestly, they’re just so forgiving.

The Trifecta penetrated super deeply, with super good rotation. I did a separate rotation test and it penetrated into the clear ballistics gel 13″ and rotated 90 degrees. That’s a lot of rotation in gel! And in animal, it’s a lot more than in gel because that’s pretty restrictive.

That little blade in the front held up super well and it adds a little bit of FOC to your setup there. The super thick blades did well even sticking in the concrete and blowing out the back, a back chunk of a concrete. I’ve never seen that before.

Use the N1 Outdoors FOC Calculator HERE!

So man, I can’t wait to use this head on some hogs and really eager to see the 125-grain version and 150-grain solid. I look forward to testing those.

Fantastic job, Trifecta! This is really a winner and it’s definitely worth a look.

John Lusk archery goat
John Lusk of Lusk Archery Adventures
rv under the stars 2

Know Before You Go! | The Ultimate Guide To RV Camping

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, camping

11 million people!

That’s how many Americans go RV Camping every year, according to the 2022 KOA North American Camping Report.

mountain range and highway

While the rise in popularity might motivate you to get out there on the road and try RV camping for yourself, there are several critical things to consider before planning your trip.

This guide will help you prepare and enjoy your next RV trip!

First, if you don’t own an RV, you need to decide whether you will rent or buy an RV.

Similarly, you have to determine your trip destination and plan your route for the best experience.

Why?

Because, unlike normal cars, RVs can be huge, so learning how to drive, navigate, and park your RV is extremely important.

What Is an RV?

An RV (recreational vehicle) is a towable or motorized camping trailer used for living while staying or traveling across various locations.

rvs parked in a row at campground

An RV can be a simple van with a bed, a small but functional pop-up trailer, or a double-wide Airstream with the luxurious comforts of a contemporary home.

Regardless of the shape and size, if you can sleep, boil water and cook in the vehicle, it’s an RV.

Choosing Your Destination

rv with grand canyon in background

You can travel almost anywhere with your RV, depending on your objectives for the trip. However, it’s important to have a clear idea of your final destination to plan your route before you hit the road.

The place you choose will depend on a number of factors – how far you want to travel, what types of activities you enjoy, and how long you plan to stay at your destination.

But, what if you want to tent camp with a DOG?

Enjoy Comfort and Style in an RV Park

Deciding your camping location can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to RV camping. While many destinations claim to have a campground, not every destination is created equal.

For first-time RVers or those looking for a longer stay, full-service parks like Midland East RV Park are packed with amenities and allow you to fully explore an area of your choosing.

This “tiny” pump could come up BIG on your camping trip!

Notably, RV resorts are the epitome of luxury in RV camping. That’s because they have lots of extra amenities like cable TV, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and many other services.

The resort may be gated, which ensures peace of mind that your belongings will be safe while you’re exploring.

Buses to nearby attractions and locations may be provided, so you don’t have to unhitch your RV to tour the local areas.

Car camping… YES, it’s a thing!

Nature and Relaxation in an RV-friendly Campground

Most RV campgrounds are great for outdoor activities. While they may have fewer amenities, the locations are secluded, with peaceful nature surrounding them.

Rvs parked near mountains

One thing to keep in mind is that power hookups, water, and sewer systems may not be guaranteed, and an RV campground itself may be small and unpaved. While this option can be cheaper than an RV park, it may not provide all the luxuries you’re accustomed to during travel.

Experienced campers and those with an adventurous streak might enjoy the national parks system, to fully immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some of the comforts of home.

.

Ever tried camping in a military tent [WHAT?]

Booking Your Site

Many campgrounds have the option to book a space online. So, if you are planning your trip around peak travel seasons, booking in advance may be essential to ensure you have a guaranteed spot once you arrive.

rv with mountain and clouds in background

Before you pack up and hit the road, it’s important to check with the management at your chosen destination to be sure that their lots are large enough to accommodate your RV.

While campgrounds typically reserve spaces for RVs and tent campers, many operate on a “first come, first served” basis. So, if you suspect that your destination might have limited space for RVs, call ahead and reserve your spot if possible.

How many calories can YOU burn biking? [find out!]
airstream rv

Size restrictions and a lack of available spaces might cause you to have to change plans halfway through, and it’s better to be prepared before you arrive at your destination. 

If your chosen campground is booked up and you can’t find another space, some large chain stores may let you spend the night in their parking lot with permission from the management.

While a parking lot may not seem like the best place to stay, it gives you a place to rest overnight before looking for a vacant site in the morning.

Going backpacking? Be sure to take one of THESE!

Preparing for Your RV Camping Trip: What to Bring

RV with umbrella

Whether you are a novice or a seasoned camper, packing for RV camping requires extensive forethought. While your RV might have multiple cabinets and shelves, you won’t have enough space for everything. Some essential RV equipment mentioned below depends on whether you own the RV or are renting one for vacation.

The following items should be in your RV camping packing list:

  • Generator
  • Hitch
  • Leveling blocks
  • Surge protectors
  • Generator and fuel for the generator
  • Electrical adaptors
  • Wheel chocks
  • Weight distribution bar
  • Drinking water and sewer hose
  • Portable toilet and shower
  • Hydraulic jack
  • Tool kit with screwdrivers, wrenches, and hammer

These items, coupled with other camping essentials, can quickly accumulate, making storage quite tricky.

You shouldn’t place these tools close to containers with caustic fluids. To avoid possible spillage, store any vehicle fluids in airtight containers. You should also consider having an exterior storage segment for RV tools and equipment.

Be sure to allocate extra time to drive to the camping ground so you can have enough time to set up your RV.

While most locations have guides that help visitors set up their gear, you still need time to figure out where to find the amenities.

The 6 best camping food ideas HERE!

Take a kayak on your camping trip [but which type?]

Final Thoughts On RV Camping

Taking your RV out on a trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. However, you need to plan your trip to avoid ugly surprises.

Pack enough items for the trip but, not too many, as this could make the process too stressful. After all, you’re going RV camping for relaxation and adventure, right?

rv on desert road

Be sure to keep your RV properly serviced and maintained to avoid breakdowns and other problems on the road.

While you may want to drive to a campground without notice, it’s prudent to book in advance, especially if you plan your RV camping trip during the peak season.

Since navigation can be a hassle in unfamiliar destinations, make sure to carry a GPS, smartphone, and physical map to help you move around.

Regardless of your itinerary, get out there and enjoy yourself!