fishing rods in a row

Top Destinations For Southeastern Fishing In The U.S.

on . Posted in Blog, Fishing

Southeastern locations in the US offer loads of different options for different types of fishing.

Whether you enjoy fly fishing, kayak fishing, saltwater fishing or other types, there are places in the Southeastern U.S. where people who are passionate about fishing can have an incredible time and seek out a diverse range of fish species!

So, let’s take a look at the different types of fishing locations in the Southeastern U.S., as well as some tried-and-true areas to wet a line!

Coastal Southeastern U.S.

man fishing in the surf

One notable coastal fishing destination in the Southeast is the Outer Banks, in North Carolina. It’s a long stretch of barrier islands known for its incredible fishing opportunities and some really nice places to stay.

Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species, including bluefish and flounder. Surf fishing is particularly popular here, where fishermen cast their lines directly from the beach into the Atlantic.

outer banks lighthouse

Similar fishing options can be found in Florida. Some of the coastal locations have specific fishing piers, like the Longboat Pass and Fishing Beach on Bradenton Beach where people can cast out and fish in the Atlantic.

In addition, some of the other top beaches in the Florida area are known for having fishing piers. Venice Beach is another popular Florida destination where many people choose to spend a day chilling and soaking up the sun. It has its own fishing pier as well on the south end of the island.

People who don’t mind getting on a boat will find they can head out to sea and explore the waters of the Gulf Coast. Fishing guides take anglers out into the deep sea, where they can fish for species like marlin and mahi-mahi.

man surf fishing with multiple rods

The Florida region also has many artificial reefs and shipwrecks that create perfect habitats for species like snapper and grouper.



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Fishing Lakes and Reservoirs In The Southeast

Heading inland, the Southeast is blessed with numerous lakes and reservoirs, with most offering a fishing experience of some sort.

Lake Guntersville is a prime example, renowned for its largemouth bass fishing, and the lake’s clear waters and abundant vegetation make it a favorite spot for both recreational anglers and even a location for professional tournaments. Night fishing for bass is popular in some of the lakes in this area, so people have a lot of choices when fishing around here.

man holding largemouth bass wearing N1 Outdoors fishing shirt

Another gem that a lot of people recommend in Florida is Lake Okeechobee, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States that has earned itself the nickname of the Bass Fishing Capital of the World – it’s a haven for anglers seeking trophy-sized largemouth bass that will give some real photo ops. Expansive marshes and grassy flats offer endless fishing opportunities, and its well-maintained facilities make it a great destination for families.


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Stream and River Fishing

The Southeastern U.S. has loads of different options in terms of fishing methods that can be successful, and river fishing is one of them. So, anyone who prefers freshwater fishing in more tranquil settings may find that the mountain streams and rivers of the Southeast offer some of the best trout fishing in the country.

man wearing N1 Outdoors hat holding rainbow trout

Fly fishing is a popular method here as it brings more success, with anglers wading into the cool, clear waters to cast their lines.

It may remind you of something from a Tolkien book, but the Smoky Mountains are another top destination for trout fishing (no hobbits invited).


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On top of this, streams such as the Little River are famous for their pristine waters and having loads of brook trout, and a day by the mountain streams provides a peaceful retreat and a place to take your friends and family, even if they don’t fish. It’s an ideal spot for anglers who appreciate both the sport and the serenity of nature.


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Bays

Bays shouldn’t be forgotten about either as a fishing option in the Southeastern United States. Tampa Bay is a standout location, known for its inshore fishing. Anglers can catch species such as snook, redfish, and tarpon.

tampa bay

Mangrove shorelines and grassy flats also provide excellent fishing grounds, and the area’s hot climate ensures year-round fishing opportunities.



Conclusion

People visiting, or who live in the Southeastern U.S., will find that there is no shortage of options for fishing, and pretty much every type of fishing (well, types that don’t involve ice) are covered in this region. And what’s more, there are lots of tourist spots in this part of the country, and this means that there are places to stay, so you can make a hotels and make a weekend (or more) of it.

Safe travels and happy fishing!

boating terms header image

Understanding Boating Terms Easily | Your Go-To Guide

on . Posted in Blog, boating

The United States is home to some of the most scenic rivers and lakes. From oceans to lakes, creeks and estuaries, the U.S. is ripe for the picking when it comes to boating activities.

family boating

Boat Types You Should Know

Before we jump into other specific boating terms, lets get started learning some basic boat types.

Pleasure Craft

A pleasure craft is exactly what it implies – a vessel used for recreation. Common types include sport fishing boats, bow riders, yachts and inflatable boats.



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Personal Watercraft

man on jet ski

Power-Driven Craft

man fishing from motor boat in the fog


Human-Powered Craft

kayak fishing at dawn

These boats operate without any power and are propelled manually using a pedal, sail or foot pedals. Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are categorized as human-powered craft. 



Now, On To The Boating Terms…

Familiarize yourself with this glossary of boating terms, and you’ll be on your way to becoming a more knowledgeable boater…

Astern

This refers to the area or location behind or toward the back of the boat or ship.

Beam

BEAM OF BOAT

Bow

BOW OF A BOAT


Bowline Knot and Bow

The bowline knot creates a loop at the end of a line. (This is not to be confused with a boat’s bow).

bowline knot

Draft

The distance between the waterline and the keel (lowest part of boat’s hull) of a boat; the minimum depth of water in which a boat will float.



Freeboard

BOW OF A BOAT

Hull

BOAT HULL

Helm

The steering wheel and controls are located at the helm. This is where the captain of the boat or ship operates from.

Keel

The lowest part of a boat’s hull, which provides strength, stability and sideways drift while in the water.




Navigation Light

These are all the lights on the boat that come into effect at night. Recreational boats are equipped with a stern light, masthead or anchor light, and sidelights. Powerboats, like pontoons, combine the stern light and masthead into a single anchor light.

Navigation lights have two functions – to make your boat visible at night and to indicate the right of way when two vessels approach each other.

PFD



Port

PORT AND STARBOARD1

Starboard

When facing the front of the boat, starboard is the right side (port is on the left).

Stern

boat stern

When facing the bow, the starboard side is the right side of the boat, marked by the green sidelight.

Transom

The transom of a boat is the cross-section of the stern. It is typically flat and serves the purpose of a support structure of the stern and barrier to water.





Trim

Trimming the engine entails it being moved up or down. The button is normally found on the throttle. There are two reasons to trim the engine.

Trimming the motor up to protect the lower unit from hitting the bottom is necessary in shallow water at low speed. You can also adjust the trim for optimal engine performance.

Underway

A boat is underway when it is not docked or anchored. Floating or drifting while using the motor would count as underway.



So, Now You Know Some Boating Terms…

wakesurfing behind boat

Be sure to educate yourself on all water rules in your state and get to know boating etiquette as well. Happy and safe boating… and have fun! 

 

people lined up at shooting range following shooting range rules

Stay Safe and Skilled: Shooting Range Rules To Follow

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, gun safety is paramount when operating a firearm. The rules of gun safety apply not only to real-life shooting situations, but also at the shooting range when practicing.

woman shooting at rifle range

Shooting range rules are instituted to ensure everyone’s safety, including the shooter and those around them. If these rules are not followed, there could be disastrous, and even fatal, consequences.

Shooting Range Rules You Should Know

There is more to shooting at a range than just knowing the the inner workings of a rifle, revolver or glock and whether it’s comfortable and accurate to shoot.

There are some fundamental firearm safety rules when visiting a shooting range. It’s your job to become familiar with them, as well as the others mandated by your local shooting range.

#1. Keep the Gun Pointed in a Safe Direction

This is a fundamental rule, yet some gun owners simply ignore it when on the shooting range. 

So, we’ll say it again… Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction!

shooting pistol at range

American Rifleman advises a safe direction would be pointing the gun towards the ground and away from yourself and others. Here’s where situational awareness takes precedence. Before even handling your firearm, consider the environment, because things can become complicated at an indoor or outdoor range. Once again, ask for assistance if unsure of a safe direction.

Note: Some ranges have rules on transporting weapons. Familiarize yourself with it so as not to contravene the regulations and your safety.



#2.  Treat All Firearms as if They Are Loaded

Don’t ever assume a gun is not loaded. Instead, treat every firearm as if it is loaded. It’s your responsibility to inspect the firearm while it’s your possession.

handgun on display

Most novices will try to work out a gun they’re unfamiliar with. Don’t attempt to do this.  If you’re unsure how to handle the gun, ask for assistance from staff members. Let them demonstrate the safe and correct use. 




#3. Trigger Discipline

This is an acquired skill that’s best taught in the shooting range

Trigger discipline is a state of mind. The shooter keeps their finger outside the trigger guard until ready to fire.

Practicing trigger discipline is one of the four essential rules of safe gun handling, advises the USCCA.

marine practicing trigger discipline

Your finger stays straight and alongside the gun frame when picking up, loading, reloading, and fixing malfunctions of a firearm. Only when you are ready to shoot can you move your finger from the indexed position.



#4. Be Sure of Your Target

Know exactly where you’re going to be shooting. With your target clearly in sight, only pull the trigger once you are confident the intended strike will not harm anyone or anything beyond the target.

best rifle caliber ammo




#5. Adhere to Commands by Shooting Range Staff

Range workers are versed in weapons and their safe use. Their job is to ensure everyone has a safe experience. So, listen to range instructors at all times to avoid breaking any rules.

Remember the golden rule: Their range, their laws. If they say you’ve compromised your safety and that of others, you could receive a ban or be asked to leave. When in doubt, ask for assistance.




Bonus Info On Gun Selection For The Range

When people get into learning about firearms and shooting, they often want to know what gun they should shoot. One recommendation can be the 2011 pistol. The Staccato 2011 is considered by many to be the most reliable 2011 pistol, as it’s known to be durable, reliable, and accurate, and is used by hundreds of law enforcement agencies in the U.S.

The gun’s popularity has increased in recent years, thanks in part to its role in the John Wick film series. The titular character Wick wields a heavily customized pistol in most scenes.

Ergonomics, increased capacity and less recoil make the 2011 a preferred choice for many gun owners, says Xtreme Guns & Ammo.



Final Thoughts On Shooting Range Rules

Gun ownership isn’t just about wanting to carry guns.

gun shooting bullet

Take the time to review your local shooting range’s rules and remember to always point your gun in a safe direction, treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, practice trigger discipline, be sure of your target, and adhere to all commands by instructors and staff.

Safe shooting!