Where’d He Go?
- If any of you happen to be at all like me, September is the official start of camo season. Realtree has been a staple in the camo industry for years now, developing innovative and effective patterns for the variety of hunting conditions hunters find across the globe. Recently Realtree has done some reinventing of sorts, swapping out logos, introducing new Realtree AP color combinations, and greatly expanding their casual-wear line.
Realtree Outfitters is a collection of street wear with the new logo, including all-over print tees, camo hoodies, mesh hats, and even a wide variety of options for the ladies. A clear attempt to reach out to a younger generation, I believe Realtree made their point in a big way.
Check out a few of my favorites below, and view the entire Realtree Outfitters lineup by clicking HERE. (Or on any of the pictures below!)
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Realtree Outfitters Black Lab T-Shirt
Realtree Outfitters Burnt Orange Pullover
Keeping in the hunting spirit (don’t worry, I still have a whole slew of fly fishing product reviews as the season comes to a close) stay tuned for a recap of my recent Moose calling outing with my fathers, as well as a hefty addition to the Up’North Photography page.
&nsbp;
Happy Trigger Happy Tuesday Ladies and Gents!
-Ben
It’s a Monstah!
- BIG Apologies goes out to Mr. Jesse Jalbert for not posting this sooner!
Jesse Jalbert with a large and in charge Muskie taken in northern Maine.
At 23lbs and 43 inches, so far this is the largest Muskie I’ve seen taken from the Saint John River this year. Reports from various fishermen indicate that the month of June has been fairly slow on the Muskie Fishing front. I’ve heard of several smaller fish in the range of 30 inches, but nothing close to this monster. Steady trout and salmon fishing has kept me out of the Muskie hunt this month, but I hope to be throwing flies for those toothy water wolves again soon.
Big props to Jesse on a great catch!
-Ben
New Lids
Three Colors for now: Burgandy, Black, and Navy Blue!
Who is interested? $16 asking price, free shipping in the U.S. (Sorry Finland). I need ten people to commit to make it worth my money! Who wouldn’t want such a fantastic piece of head furniture?
New Lids! Soft Mesh back, non-fitted front. Adjustable!
So, who wants one?
-Ben
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Ice is Nice
- Easter weekend is in the books, and with it my first weekend of fly fishing. While my trip home did not go exactly as planned (like it ever does!) I can pull some positive points from the mountains of failure that men of lesser stature might focus on.
Almost on cue, the Fish and Saint John rivers rose almost two feet literally while I was driving north on Friday afternoon. The rivers and lakes of the north Maine Woods decided this would be a good weekend to break apart, flooding the Saint John with ice and making conditions dangerous throughout the region. The Fish River continues to rise even as I write this, spoiling any chances of a successful outing until the waters AT LEAST clears up a bit. Cross your fingers!
Friday evening saw a reunion of great minds, as I got together with most of the fellas from “Team Chaos” to throw back a few adult beverages in celebration of another successful week in the trenches. Good buddy Jon Morin turned 21 on Thursday (an event I regrettably missed) so he chose to turn in early that evening, an understandable and wise decision for the young stallion. Nevertheless, it was great to be able to catch up with the crew after about a month away from home. Good friends are hard to find these days, and I’m extremely fortunate to have my fair share.
Running the Fish River in April-Loaded with LLBean Fly Rods-Dodging ice and fighting the current. It's a Mainer thing.
Saturday morning I arose with the sun and headed over to Doris’s Cafe with my father for the best home cooked breakfast in town. After some Spring cleaning and a quick trip to the shop to drop off our outboard motor for a tune up, I shifted my focus to fishing-Finally!
The sky was a clear blue and the wind was but a whisper on what seemed like a beautiful summer day. 75 degrees on Easter weekend is certainly a pleasant surprise, and I wasn’t about to spend the day indoors. I gathered the essentials and rode off into town to meet up with Mr. grand-master Muskie himself, Derplo. After a little flip-flopping because we’re idiots we decided to chance the running ice on the Saint John to make a quick run up into the lower Fish River. We were going Muskie Fishing!
When we arrived at the boat landing we discovered that the rising waters had receded during the evening, leaving three strategically placed ice chunks in front of the boat landing. Not to be outdone, Derplo dug a chain out and put his Chevy to work, quickly clearing a space just large enough to squeeze his square stern Scott Canoe. The boat landing located on the Saint John is a stones throw from the mouth of the Fish River, so it would be a short run through ice laden waters before we reached “the safe zone.” Luckily, the Fish was pushing some serious water and the current actually worked to our advantage, pushing most of the ice on the Saint John away from the shore and clearing us a path just large enough to more safely navigate the mine field.
Derplo's Chevy doing some heavy lifting! The ice running on the Saint John River.
Derplo navigating the lower fish river, Ice running on the Saint John in the background.
After a quick trip we finally wet our lines for the first time all season. My weapon of choice? The new L.L.Bean Silver Ghost 10wt fly rod and a #4 Shearwater reel. What a beauty! Loaded with an intermediate sink Airflo 40+ fly line, I was ready for action and shaking with excitement as I made my first cast. In no time at all I was launching some serious line and strategically placing Simon Graham’s Muskie flies in fishy looking pockets and dead water pools. My testing is nowhere near complete, but first impressions of this setup were extremely exciting and much more favorable than I could have ever expected.
LLBean Ultimate Muskie Setup: 10wt Silver Ghost-#4 Shearwater Reel-Airflo 40+ 10wt intermediate sink distance line.
Gardner fishing, Derplo obviously pumped to be on the water!
Derplo and I ran the Fish River all the way up to my house, picking up another Muskie guru on the way, Mr. Eric Gardner. The three of us threw dozens of different patterns (flies in my case, gear for the other slubs) but the “chocolate milk” looking river yielded no strikes to speak of. The rushing water provided a few nervous thrills, but it was safety first on this season-opening expedition. We took turns swapping stories and soaking up the sun for almost three hours before finally securing the vessel and cruising back to port. While I was disappointed that no fish were landed, I was quickly reminded that even in prime conditions Muskie fishing can be a real b*tch. If anything at least I can be excited that I was able to cast away the early season cobwebs and get my feet wet with a more powerful Muskie setup. There is one thing for sure – It aint’ your momma’s trout rod!
Round 2-Next weekend!
Tight Lines,
-Ben
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Last Call!
- Howdy folks,
Today, March 31st will be the final date where submissions to Up’North’s creative writing/photography contest will be accepted. If you’ve been putting it off, time is quickly running out! Entries submitted even a single tick past the start of April fools day and the joke is on you, no exceptions. I am extremely happy and impressed with the quality entries and sheer quantity of submissions I have received over that last month. This really won’t be an easy decision, lucky for me I’ve acquired the help of several fly fishing gurus to help sort things out in the coming weeks. Best of luck to all who participated!
Logo compliments of Fatguyflyfishing.com
For the Official Contest Rules, prize information, and the judging procedure, click HERE.
Tight Lines!
-Ben
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Sunday Brunch: WHAT!?
New Up’North Series! While the extremely popular “Mornin’ Coffee” post probably won’t be resurrected until AFTER student teaching, who DOESN’T have time for some Sunday Brunch!?
And the wind blows……and blows, and blows (Damn you Maine, Damn you).
When word that open water fishing season was to open early came on Thursday, I was already outdoors enjoying the beautiful day……running. Yup, I said running. In the past few weeks I’ve been making the gym a frequent part of my day. Think of it as a precursor to the extreme aerobic activities that come with a busy fly fishing season (right). It’s hard to believe that I could be caught off guard by this early season announcement, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t caught with my pants on the ground.
Click me for the 2010 Early Open Water Fishing Season ***OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE***
- New fly lines still in the mail, old ones at home.
- Switch rod home, 5wt home, 6wt and 7wt,, home.
- Vest and lanyard, home.
- FISHING LICENSE, home.
What I have left is enough fly tying materials to stock a fly shop, two spankin’ new Shearwater reels with no line, and a 10 weight Silver Ghost just begging for a Muskie to fight with. Pants on the ground indeed.
This coming Thursday and the weekend that follows is sure to be one for the record books, and an event long anticipated by the Up’North crew. Our youngest brother in arms is finally earning his stripes, as Jonathan “Jizzon” Morin turns the big 21 on April first. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will find us chasing Muskie, Trout, and Salmon at some of our favorite haunts in northern Maine, camera in hand. Pictures from the birthday festivities and the fishing weekend will be plentiful, and will filter onto the site after a short recovery period.
The soon to be birthday boy with a Juvi-Landlocked Salmon in Summer 2009. Gray Ghost strikes again!
So while the open water fishing season is officially underway, I sadly concede that April 1st will probably still be my opening day. It’s time to man-up and put my student teaching first this week, working ahead to assure that my fishing filled weekend will be earned, and the following Monday won’t be a complete disaster. Time will tell!
Get out and fish!
-Ben
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2010 L.L.Bean Spring Fishing Expo
- Press Release from the fine people at L.L.Bean!
Lefty Kreh. Yup, Lefty Kreh.
……….
Let me say it one more time. LEFTY KREH!
Even if you completely ignore all of the other amazing AMAZING guests, events, and specials that make this weekend at L.L.Bean so special. For christ sakes man, come on down and meet Lefty Frickin’ Kreh!
WHAT: “Legends of Fishing” highlight L.L.Bean’s 20th annual Spring Fishing Weekend
WHEN: March 19-21, 2010
WHERE: L.L.Bean Hunting & Fishing Store in Freeport, Maine
FREEPORT, Maine— The biggest names in the history of fishing will be at L.L.Bean on March 20-21 for L.L.Bean’s 20th annual Spring Fishing Weekend. These “Legends of Fishing” will be available at the store from 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday to visit with customers, share stories, sign autographs, books and more.
Featured celebrity fly tyers include David Klausmeyer, Bob Popovics, Mike Martinek and Don Bastian. Other weekend highlights include free fly-casting lessons, kids’ activities, and a variety of demonstrations, clinics and seminars including presentations by the Maine Professional Guide Association, as well as several L.L.Bean experts.
Biologists from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife will also be conducting a special panel discussion on all things related to fishing in Maine. For more information, visit www.llbean.com/events, or call 800-559-0747, ext. 37222.
About L.L.Bean, Inc.
L.L.Bean, Inc. is a leading multi-channel merchant of quality outdoor gear and apparel. Founded in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean, the company began as a one-room operation selling a single product, the Maine Hunting Shoe. While its business has grown substantially, the company remains committed to the same honest principles upon which it was built – a focus on the customer, continuous product improvement and innovation, respect for people, preservation of the natural environment and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. The 220,000 sq. ft. Flagship campus of stores in Freeport, Maine is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and welcomes more than three million visitors each year. L.L.Bean can be found worldwide on www.llbean.com.
See you at the Expo!
-Ben
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Jackets Anyone?
- Any fisherman knows that wearing the proper jacket is the key to being comfortable while spending long (or short) periods of time on the water. Maine is know the world over for its sporadic weather patterns, and I can attest to this fact all too well. Time and time again, season after season I can likely be found on more than one occasion sitting in a torrential downpour after a morning of blue skies and sunshine. Why not just pack it up and call it a day you ask? Because Fish, oddly enough, are not afraid of a little water. In fact, some of my better days fishing have been during random rain storms and the occasional thunder storm. (I DO NOT recommend waving a 9ft graphite rod in the air during thunder and lighting storms)
So instead of complaining about the rain and sitting around in sopping wet clothing all afternoon, I would recommend purchasing a packable rain coat. Lucky for you, LLBean has a great selection of lightweight, quality wading jackets that do a great job of keeping the rain off your back. For 2010 they have updated their best selling Emerger Wading jacket, packing in even more value for the same reasonable price. Lighter weight material, fleece lined pockets, neoprene gusseted cuffs, and secure hood adjustments all work together to keep you comfortable and dry while on the water. Learn more about the Emerger II Wading Jacket today!
L.L.Bean Emerger II Wading Jacket
But what about those cold rainy days when a simple shell just isn’t enough? Look no further than the new Pocket Water Fleece Jacket. Designed specifically with fishermen in mind, this breathable jacket will fit perfectly under your waders and wading jacket, giving you another comfortable layer to protect against the elements. A combination of fleece, soft shell, and waterproof fabrics make the Pocket Water Fleece a must have for Spring and Fall fishing trips. Once again, an affordable product backed with the LLBean satisfaction guarantee. Learn more about the Pocket Water Fleece today!
L.L.Bean Pocket Water Fleece
So next time your on the water complaining about being cold or wet, don’t say I didn’t warn you! Being prepared for whatever mother nature throws your way will almost always guarantee you a more successful and enjoyable day on the water. Now if only I could get all this snow and ice to melt!
Happy Castings,
-Ben
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Gray Ghost Wading Boots
-Continuing with more exciting new products from LLBean, tonight we take a look at the 100% fresh out of the oven Gray Ghost wading boots. While fly fishermen get more environmentally conscious, companies have answered the call of Trout Unlimited, producing new products that minimize the unwanted transfer of aquatic nuisances. Nowhere is this transformation more important than with wading boots.
Like many companies, LLBean has taken a step in the right direction and completely eliminated felt from all of their wading boots in 2010. As if eliminating felt wasn’t enough, they’ve designed a new boot from the ground up full of environmentally friendly features geared towards keeping your favorite fishing holes clean and healthy for years to come. With improved traction, fewer seams, and a streamlined design, the Gray Ghost wading boot is a light, technical wading boot at an affordable price.
Gray Ghost wading boots
Major thumbs up to the wonderful people at LLBean for helping the rest of us kick aquatic hitchhikers to the curb! For more information, and to order your very own pair of Gray Ghost wading boots, visit LLBean.com.
Tight Lines,
-Ben
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LLBean Silver Ghost (Switch anyone?)
My prayers have been answered! As I type tonight I can hardly keep my fingers on the keyboard. My excitement is simply outrageous, and here’s why!
Yup, an LLBean switch rod!
Low and behold, LLBean has finally given us a switch rod! While I’ve known for some time now that a new series of fly rods (in both fresh and salt water options) was in the works, the Silver Ghost switch rod was indeed a pleasant surprise (I’m still freaking out). Just another reason why the Silver Ghost will be drawing praise from the fly fishing world in 2010. Packed with great technology like Pacbay Minima stripper guides and REC recoil snake guides, the Silver Ghost is 15-20% lighter than the Orion and more durable than ever. This is without a doubt the most impressive fly rod series LLBean has ever produced, and I can’t wait to throw some line with them!
This coming season I plan on fishing the Silver Ghost for muskie as well as trout and salmon. Learning to fish the switch rod effectively is sure to be a ton of fun during the Spring salmon run, and throwing larger flies around with the 10wt rod should prove equally exciting. Paired with the new Shearwater reel, both set-ups are all but guaranteed to make this the most exciting and enjoyable fishing season to date. I simply cannot wait to fish the hell out of test and review these new products.
I wonder if sleeping through the winter is possible…
Tight lines,
-Ben
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LLBean 2010
- This is shaping up to be a HUGE year for the folks at L.L.Bean, as 2010 ushers in a much improved selection of quality fly fishing products at tough to beat prices. With the 2010 fly fishing catalog on the way, and their website being updated daily, the world will finally get the chance to discover exactly why I’ve been so excited for the past six months. The time for silence has most certainly passed!
Over the next few days on Up’North I will highlight some of the most exciting new product releases LLBean has brought to the table for 2010. Tonight, we take a look at the Shearwater Fly Reel.
New LLBean Shearwater Fly Reel
With a newly improved composite disc-drag system and quick change spool design, this sleek new reel is LLBean’s top offering in 2010, and with good reason. Paired with the new Silver Ghost fly rod (more info soon!), this is one combo that I simply cannot wait to get my hands on!
For more information on the new Shearwater reel, or to order your very own, visit LLBean.com today!
Still to come, new wading boots, a fishermen friendly fleece, and a fairly priced fly rod that can hang with the big boys. See ya’ll tomorrow!
-Ben
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Represent! Fresh Up'North Threads!
- Back again!
After a busy, family fun filled weekend I am finally ready to get back to business! Christmas was extremely exciting and more fly fishing and flannel oriented than I expected, much to my surprise! Among the thoughtful gifts that came my way were a hat and shirt that ushered in an Up’North first. My parents went through all the trouble of getting the Up’North logo digitized and sewn into each item, and I couldn’t be more excited about how perfect they came out. Tomorrow I plan on placing an order for a few items that I will make available to my readers for the first time ever! These items could include a few different hats as well as some different colored t-shirts!
For now, take a look at the two beauties that found their way under my tree this year..
Dri-Duck graphic hat and a Chamois shirt with the Up'North Logos!
Can you say OFFICIAL!?
-Ben
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Orvis Helios Switch Rods
- As if the award winning Helios line of fly rods wasn’t impressive and versatile enough, there is now a new kid on the block who aims to impress. The handsome Orvis Helios Switch rods give fly anglers the ability to make traditional one-handed casts, or deliver lengthy spey casts to pockets of water that might otherwise be out of range.
I’ve been looking into a switch rod for a while now, and the Helios switch looks like a great option. For a limited time Orvis is also offering a FREE Battenkill large arbor reel with the purchase of a new Helio’s Switch rod, a pretty snazzy deal indeed.
Check out the new switch rods at Orvis.com today!
Tight Lines,
-Ben
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Support the "True Heros"
- The fine people at FethaStyx fishing rods need your help! They are currently hosting an auction on eBay to raise money for the families of four police officers killed in the Western Washington community of Lakewood. Check the details below and if possible lend a hand by participating. A chance to own a great rod and help an even greater cause. Tis’ the season!
For those of you who haven’t checked them out yet, the True Hero rod series is really a spectacular way to show your support for fallen law enforcement or firefighters. At a great price, they make for an extremely meaningful, fully customized gift. Check out the full line of rods at Fethastyx.com
Tight Lines and Happy Holidays,
-Ben
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A Seriously GOOD Buy.
Howdy Folks
I’m in the final stages of testing and reviewing some new products from the L.L.Bean hunting line-up, and I must say, I’m extremely impressed. For the price and quality, the Big Game System is tough to beat.
Which system is right for you? Customize the shell, liner, and pants to match your hunting conditions. Choose from two popular camo patterns: Mossy Oak Treestand and Realtree All-Purpose HD! Throw in the brand new Trophy Pursuit Boots with or without Thinsulate insulation and you’ll be ready for whatever the weather throws your way!
Choose your Big Game Hunting System
Trophy Persuit Boots
Full reviews coming soon! Stay tuned…
Enjoy the snow!
-Ben
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Loop Opti 3L
Tired of the boring earth tones that most wading jackets seem to come in? Stand out on the water with the new Loop Opti 3L wading jacket. Combing functionality and elegance, Loop has created one of the lightest, most functional jackets available today. The pinstripe pattern is an extremely limited edition, so get yours quick before it disappears forever. To learn more about the Loop Opti 3L jacket, and other Loop products, click HERE.
Loop Opti 3L
This is just another great example of how much fly fishing continues to grow in popularity among the youth of today. I’m stoked to see companies breaking away from the traditional mold of what fly fishing gear has been for years and stepping into the production of more modern products and styles. As much as corporate fly fishing STILL SUCKS, the future generation of the “sport” is much different than the fly angler of yesteryear. It’s great to see companies like Loop who recognize how fly fishing is evolving. My only hope is that other companies will follow suit with more modern styles and competitive pricing. We all know it has NEVER been about the gear, but if gear such as the Opti 3L can increase interest in fly fishing and expand the market in a possitive way, I am personally all for it.
Knowingly risking a debate on “the current state of fly fishing,” any thoughts?
Tight Lines,
-Ben
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The Hunting List
- With Hunting season in Maine almost wrapped up, the Thanksgiving holiday is the last time many people can take to the woods in search of that trophy deer. Whether your hitting the hunting camp with some buddies or simply going alone, some basic essentials will go a long way towards making your hunt more comfortable and enjoyable!
So without further ado, the Up’North Hunting Essentials List…
Multiple Day Trips require a much larger packing list of essential items, Including spare tires, pulleys, and high lifts!
- Wool Clothing, Including but not limited to socks, pants, and perhaps a coat. Wool is extremely warm and also breaths well.
- Hunter Orange: Maine requires 2 articles of orange during hunting season, so bring a hat and a vest for good measure.
- Your Hunting License! Purchase one online HERE. Remember, this year bear hunters are required to have a separate tag!
- Up to date rules and regulations manual.
- Comfortable boots: Bean Boots are a great choice here, but anything with Gore-Tex waterproofing and Thinsulate insulation will work fantastic. If your boots are new, wear them around the house to break them in before using them in the field to avoid blisters and soar feet.
- Layers: I prefer cotton layers under wool, but companies like Under Armor make some great base layers that will keep you warm and dry.
- Extra Hats: Bring an orange beanie for if it gets frigid where you are hunting, and a simple orange baseball cap for those warmer days. Controlling the temperature of your head has a dramatic effect on the rest of your body.
When the going gets tough, throw on some tire chains! Don't forget a healthy helping of bungee cords!
- Heat Packs: For all your tree stand hunters, sometimes heavy clothing just is not enough. Any local grocery or clothing store usually stocks heat packs for frigid days, especially the ones in northern Maine. It’s a great idea to have them in your pack, just in case!
- A good pair of gloves: Your hands are important (You need them to pull the trigger) so cover them up! Thicker gloves may be difficult to hunt with, but many different companies make thin “shooting gloves” that do a great job of keeping your hands warm and dry.
- A day pack: A well stocked, comfortable day pack is essential to a comfortable day on the trail. Include extra socks, layers, and plenty of water for the walk. Candy bars or small snacks will also provide an energy boost when the going gets rough. An emergency aid kit, including a compass, matches, and some dry paper are also a must! Make sure to keep your pack light, bringing only the essential items and leave the rest home. You don’t need to be tired out on the trail.
- Extra ammunition: Don’t let the big one get away! You don’t need to carry a small arsenal, but bring at least 2 full clips, or about 1 box of rounds for the rifle you will be using. Always assume you might have to sight your gun in again for ANY reason, and bring enough ammo to accommodate this.
- Gun cleaning trail kit, including cotton swabs or a scope cleaning tool. Very important for those mishaps when your gun is dropped in the mud/snow, etc.
- TOILET PAPER: Yeah, you get the idea.
- Sun Glasses: Quality sun glasses make sunny days much easier on the eyes, and much more enjoyable. Polarized sun glasses are my first choice, but any pair will do the trick (except your cheesy giant white ones, Paris Hilton). In addition, many companies now make shooting classes that provide sufficient U.V. protection. Secure them to your head with chums, or using any other method of your choice. Just remember, glass shatters, so if they are not shooting glasses, remove them to avoid eye loss before you take the shot!
- Compass, GPS, and a Map: Bagging a trophy buck really isn’t that impressive if you die along with it because you can’t find your way home! Learn how to use all three to ensure survival in the big woods.
- Flagging Tape: This is a great idea for marking your tracks and alerting other hunters that you might be in the area. This is NOT a safe replacement for a compass, but can prove extremely useful during short walks through thick brush. High visibility orange or a bright blue is usually your best bet!
- Cell Phone: While useless in 99% of the North Woods, cell phones can an extremely useful survival tool if you happen to have service.
- Portable Marine Radio: Other hunters may be near by if you need assistance! These also prove extremely useful when hunting with friends in the same area.
- Murs Radio: Murs is now used almost exclusively in the North Woods by loggers of ALL major outfits. To avoid getting crushed by a fully loaded truck during your drive up to camp, purchase and install a Murs radio. Be careful to note the correct channels for each road, and frequently make your location known to other drivers in the area. Do not forget, the woods roads were created for logging, and logging trucks and equipment ALWAYS have the right of way.
- A Knife or 2….or 4: Gutting a deer is tough work, and almost always requires more than 1 sharp knife. Do yourself a favor and bring at least 3, nobody wants to be cutting up a deer with a butter knife!
- Anything else that might make you comfortable during a long day in the woods!
Jon knows all the essentials required for a weekend trip in the woods. Remember, it is ALWAYS better to be overpacked.
If you can think of something I forgot, add it to the list via the comments section below! Remember to always practice safety when hunting under ANY conditions. It is ALWAYS a better idea to hunt with a partner. Up’North does not support or encourage the consumption of alcohol or the use of drugs while hunting, as it is not safe practice and strictly prohibited by state and federal law. Please enjoy your brewskis at camp AFTER the hunt. And by all means, enjoy yourself and the great outdoors!
See you on the trail,
-Ben
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"Fresh Threads" for Christmas
Top-O-The Mornin’ to you!
With Christmas right around the corner, tis’ the season to start compiling a Christmas list! While fly rods, waders, and more “on the water” specific apparel are probably already on the list, don’t forget that you need to look snazzy off the water as well! Have no fear, This Is Fly and Under Armour have you covered, literally. Here are a few of my favorite new shirts this season, all female approved and sure to get the people at your local hangout talkin’. Click the links below for more information.
Bling Bling-ThisIsFly.com
UA Encounter Tee-Underarmour.com
UA Tech. Antler Tee-UnderArmour.com
Merry Chr…..(ahhhh Too Early)….Happy Shopping!
-Ben
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The New Guy
- 2010 is shaping up to be a big year for fly fishing products, and we haven’t even made it through the winter yet.
For those of you who have been hesitant to spend a months pay on a brand new Helios, you now have an alternative that is MORE than attractive. New for 2010, the Orvis Hydros is the second lightest fly rod in the world (behind the helios, duh) and is loaded with helios-like technology. While the reviews haven’t started rolling in just yet, my guess is that the Hydros series is probably worth every penny of its competitive price tag. Did I mention it won the Midcurrent 2009 Best of Show award?
Orvis Hydros
For a closer look at the new line of Hydros fly rods, visit Orvis.com today!
Tight lines,
-Ben
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This is Fly: Issue 20
Issue 20: Click to Read!
The latest issue of This is Fly will blow your mind, but would you honestly expect anything less? In a world where magazines in print seem to be tanking worst than Obama’s popularity ratings, this is one publication that deserves a special edition hard copy. The Gear section is stellar, with a load of new products for the 2010 season, and the story by fly swingin’ hottie April Vokey is spectacular. Did I mention the limited edition Gold Rush tee?
More please! (Read it now!)
-Ben
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Fly Fishing Bling
- For those of you who simply scoff at the thought of using a wallet, there is now a more “gangster savvy” option. Show your trophy wife (or girlfriend) just how “baller” you truly are with this Abel Money Clip by M-Clip. Featuring 4 standard finishes, or 7 hand painted fish finishes, the M-Clip is a winner in everyone’s Christmas stocking. With enough room for up to 10 big bills and 5 credit cards, your day at the spa or night out on the town will always be covered.
Abel Money Clip by M-Clip
Happy Shopping! (see contact tab for information on how to donate one to MaineFlyCastings.com)
-Ben
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Up'North's Top 3 Shotguns of 2009
Good Mornin’
For those of you in the market for a new shotgun during this fall season, feast your eyes on Up’Norths top 3 favorites for 2009. Are they pricey? maybe….Are they worth it? I wouldn’t write about them if they weren’t. Lets take a look!
Introducing….
First up, the Browning Cynergy Classic Sporting, over under double barrel shotgun. With so many innovative and beautiful shotguns in Browning’s line-up, it was extremely difficult to choose just one. The Cynergy over under is a classic looking gun with all the bells and whistles of today’s modern shotguns. Available in 12, 20, and 28 gauge, as well as .410, there is a Cynergy shotgun for everyone. To learn about what makes the Cynergy line so special, click HERE.
Browning Cynergy Classic Sporting
The Benelli Vinci promises to be the fasted shooting, softest-kicking, most reliable 12 gauge shotgun in the world, and from the looks of things I wouldn’t doubt it. Benelli claims that their In-line inertia driven operating system stands up to the very theme of technological advancements through simplistic design. I’m not sure about all that, but I do know that with three different patterns to choose from, the Benelli Vinci is one of the most visually appealing, technologically impressive shotguns on the market today. To Learn More about the Benelli Vinci, click HERE.
The Benelli Vinci Semi-auto 12 gauge
Remington claims their new Model 887 NITROMAG pump shotgun is the most durable and reliable ever built, and who are we to argue? Build from the ground up with the same expert care put into the legendary Model 870, the Model 887 will take any abuse you throw at it and still keep coming back for more. Complete with Remington’s exclusive ArmorLokt protective seal technology, new Supercell recoil pad, and some of the best balance in the business, the Model 887 is the softest shooting, most impressive addition of 2009 from the world’s oldest gunmaker. To learn more about the bombproof Remington Model 887 NITROMAG, click HERE.
Remington Model 887 Nitromag in Waterfowl Camo
So there you have it, three shotguns, three trusted brands, and three different platforms. From old geezer to young buck, you simply can’t go wrong with one of the three guns above. Have fun explaining to your lady that you bought another gun! Don’t say I didn’t warn you…
Happy Shooting,
-Ben
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The 2009 L.L.Bean Fall Hunting Expo: A Personal Narrative
- The Fall hunting season is now underway, with many Mainers taking to the woods in search of a plentiful bounty fit to stuff a kings freezer. It’s no secret that October is the favorite month of many serious hunters, most of which know the logging roads of northern Maine better than the back of their own hands. For these hunters, there is simply no better way to start the season than with a trip to L.L.Bean for the annual Hunting Expo!
Last weekend I made the two hour journey down to Freeport to take in the sights and sounds of the 2009 17th Annual L.L.Bean Fall Hunting Expo. Having already had an excellent experience at the Spring Fishing Expo, I must say that the Hunting side of things was also a real pleasure to partake in.
I arrived just in time to get a front row view at the State of Maine Locked Moose dedication ceremony and watched as the Maine Warden Service Color Guard kicked things off. The excitement was clear, as people from around the state and beyond mingled with representatives from L.L.Bean and M.I.F.W , all of who were equally ecstatic that such a lengthy project had finally come to such a glorious end. After listening to a few speeches commemorating all of those who donated their time and money on such a beautiful display, I made my way inside to get a better view of the massive display of taxidermy greatness. As one of only two such displays in all of north America, the locked moose were truly a sight to behold. Not being much of a fan as far as crowds are concerned. I snapped a few dozen pictures at various angles and then ran for my life as the swarms of people flooded in from every direction.
Golor Guard
Maine Locked Moose: The Final Charge
Making my way back outside, I took a stroll around the front of the Hunting and Fishing store and watched as representatives from the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association led their dogs through various demonstrations of skill and patience. With a sense of professionalism and keen instinct, I was amazed at how well these dogs listened, and how smart they actually were when it came to following specific directions. While everyone knows that dogs are a man’s best friend, these owners clearly have a much different relationship with their animals. The special bond, and a level of trust that few will ever get to experience with their pets gave me a new respect for the place that hunting dogs fill in the lives of hunters the world over. It really is quiet special! I stood mesmerized for over half an hour before finally making my way up every hunters favorite staircase and heading into the Hunting and Fishing store.
North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association Table
A young pup in training....
Upon entering the store I instantly caught sight of the Mossy Oak Pro Team setting up a table and greeting customers. I strolled over and introduced myself in a completely casual, shameless self promoting sort of way and ended up the proud owner of a spankin’ new Mossy Oak hat, compliments of the fellas. Thanks guys!
The next hour (give or take 30 minutes, most likely give) I spent my time walking in circles around the section dedicated to wool clothing. For those of you who know me, it is no secret that I have recently become a real sucker for wool. From jac-shirts to Maine Guide parkas to wool hunting pants, I compiled a list of items that my mother and the first lady of Up’North will have to divvy up come birthday and Christmas time. Strolling through the camouflage section I marveled at L.L.Beans new Big Game outerwear system, extending my Christmas list before setting off to see what might fit me among the racks of Scent-Lok apparel. By the time I came to my senses and realized that neither my mother nor my girlfriend could afford to buy me $5,00o dollars in hunting clothing and accessories, I was almost late for Hal Blood’s presentation “Tracking Big Woods Bucks.”
Like most young hunters, I am always looking for ways to improve my chances in the field. While new innovations in calls, camo, and weapons certainly make life easier, often times simply listening to and learning from the experts can prove to be more than helpful. To say that Master Maine guide Hal Blood is an accomplished deer hunter would be the epitome of understatements. As one of the nation’s best trackers, Mr. Blood had a ton of great information to offer on scrapes, rubs, deer tracks, and so much more. He explained briefly his thoughts on the weather, gear, and the most common mistakes that hunters make when perusing trophy whitetails before his time ran short and he was forced to leave us pondering our next deer hunting excursion. Hungry for more answers to my ever expanding list of questions, I made my way back to the hunting and fishing store to meet Mr. Blood and to purchase his second book, “Hunting Big Woods Bucks Vol.2.” As of now I am almost half way through it, but I can already say with confidence that if you purchase your copy HERE, you won’t be disappointed!
With places to go and people to see, I made one last round through the store before deciding that if I stayed any longer I might not have enough money to buy groceries for the next few months. After saying my goodbyes I headed outdoors and into the warm afternoon sun. There waiting ever so patiently for his owner on the doorstep to the store was the most beautiful brown Weimaraner (correct me if I’m wrong) I have ever seen. I snapped a few pictures before bidding him farewell, a perfect ending to a delightful afternoon.
Patiently Waiting...
The L.L.Bean Hunting Expo for me was a huge success and an extremely enjoyable time. While I wish the day would have afforded me a few more hours to take in a couple more presentations, I take solace in the wonderful time I had, classy people I met, and all the information (and Christmas list ideas) I gained along the way.
With a little something for every member of the family, The expo truly was everything I expected and more. While it would have been great to share my experience with someone else, my only regret still remains that I could not spend the entire weekend taking in every last event.
Happy Hunting,
-Ben
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Going! Going! Gone!
- Because college is literally kicking my @$$ right now, time is something I simply do not have. No time for fishing, no time for writing about fishing, not even time for dreaming about fishing. With hunting season right around the corner, It has quickly become clear that my days of fly fishing in 2009 are all but over.
Partridge (roughed grouse), moose (two weeks and counting), and eventually deer hunting will each have their place among this falls topics at MaineFlyCastings.com, along with various gear reviews from companies like Mossy Oak, Browning, Leupold and many more. For those of you still holding on for the rest of my 2009 Fly Fishing gear reviews, keep a close eye on the site in the weeks to come as I do my best to complete the list.
As always, Up’North will maintain an active role in the delivery and bias interpretation of industry news, press releases, and various pictures, videos, stories, and ventures from the Fly Fishing scene in Maine and across the world. Fly tying will take up a major portion of my winter posts, as well as ice fishing and other outdoorsy type propaganda that I feel you all should have the privilege of reading. As always, reader submissions are welcome.
For those of you still waiting, the Up’North decals are taking longer than expected but should be available within the next month. Click HERE to contact me if you are interested in purchasing a few. A various array of other items should also become available as the winter begins to unfold, including a small selection of hand tied flies by yours truly. In addition, during the next week (give or take a week) a brand new photography page will also debut on MaineFlyCastings.com. This page will hold much of my camera work, as well as the work of many other northern Maine photographers who contribute in making Up’North a colorful collage of fly fishing pictures and beautiful landscapes from around the state. Stay tuned!
In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who have contributed to the content of MaineFlyCastings.com during the 2009 Fly Fishing season. While I am sure many of your thoughts of an unproductive year probably echo mine, I can say with confidence that your contributions have made this season one that I will remember for years to come.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy a few more pictures from what is quickly shaping up to be my last venture in Northern Maine waters this season.
Bon Voyage Fly Fishing, i’ll see you on the water April 1st, 2010.
Fly Fishermen's Closet!
The Fish River, Fall 2009
My Lab Molly enjoying the Fall day!
A big thanks to my mother for her excellent camera work in taking the pictures for this post, as well as many others from my recent ramblings!
Tight Lines,
-Ben
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