August

Early August is when most lake water temperatures peak, so you want to be mindful of creeks and inlets that are pouring cooler, more oxygenated currents into the lake, especially if the bottom drops at that spot. Also understand that in most lakes, baitfish (and the bass that follow them) like to school on structures below the thermocline (where water temperatures transition from warm to cool). For water 15 feet deep or more, try a drop-shot rig, where you have a heavy weight at the end of your line, and suspend a smaller-sized soft plastic worm on a hook above that. You want to use eight-pound to 12-pound test line and a medium- or light-action spinning rod in this situation, because finesse and feel are important.

Tip courtesy of  Anglers’ Legacy

1. Butterflies taste with their feet.

2. The largest butterfly in the world is the Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing. It’s wings measure 11 inches from tip to tip.

3. The smallest butterfly has a wing span of only about 1/2 inch.

4. Most adult butterflies live long enough only to mate and lay eggs. some kinds live only a couple days.

5. The largest butterfly in the United States is the Giant Swallowtail with a wingspan of up to 6 inches.

6. A caterpillar can grow to be 27,000 times larger than the egg it hatched from. (If a 7-pound human grew that much, it would weigh 189,000 pounds as an adult!!!).

Majestic Monarch

Garden for Wildlife—ANYWHERE!!

Whether you live in the city, the suburbs or a rural area, you can your family can make a special place for wildlife. All you need to provide is food, water, cover and the wildlife to raise their babies. Your yard may already have some of these things!!

June

In June, before water temperatures approach their peak (especially in northern states) you’ll still find good numbers of bass cruising in water less than 10 feet deep. This is a great time of year to try different baits and lures. Among the favorites are spinnerbaits, especially in the mornings. If you get an early start, try fishing buzzbaits, or even a surface-riding swimbait. In the warmest hours, you might try throwing jigs and soft plastics. With these options, concentrate your casts around points and drop-offs, and try flipping into weed mats with a weighted “green pumpkin” colored jig.

Tip courtesy of  Anglers’ Legacy

1. Traditional bird feeders can get very dirty, so be sure to clean yours often. Empty out any uneaten food, take the feeder apart and scrub all the parts with hot, soapy water.

more…