Bass typically start to spawn when the water temperatures reach 60 degrees.  When the bass are spawning I typically like to fish the back half of spawning coves (pea gravel or hard clay bottom).  The bass will guard the nest from egg robbers like lizards or bluegill.  For this reason, I like to slowly drag a Texas rigged lizard or similar bait like a brush hog.  If the bass are not biting this I will down size to a Bass Pro Shops River Bug in bluegill color.  I like to dye the tail chartreuse using Spike It.        

When the bass are done spawning, the males are left to guard the baby bass called fry.  The males despise anything disturbing their fry. To take advantage of this I will swim a bluegill colored jig through the fry.  During this time of year the top water bite begins to turn on.   I like to use buzz baits as a searching tool when I cannot see the fry.  The noise and water disturbance will often trigger a strike.  After the spawn, females will leave and go to deeper water to recover.  They will come up to a secondary or main lake point to feed.  To catch them, I will drag a lizard or brush hog on points using a Carolina rig.    I also like to use top water baits that I can walk the dog with.  The original and probably most popular bait in this category is the Heddon Zara Spook.  I will use this in the same areas I would use the Carolina rig or a flat near deep water.

----Written by Local Pro Staffer Aaron Olsen

Bass Pro Shops Independence is happy to announce our 2nd Annual Kid's Fishing Derby!  We will be changing up our location this year to allow for more participants!  Families can join us at Lake Jacomo Marina on Saturday, June 8th.  Registration will start at 8am.  Fishing will begin at 9am and last through 10:30am and weigh in will start after we finish fishing! 

Age categories include: 

2-6

7-10

11-15

Prizes and trophies will be awarded to each age category for the following:

Biggest Fish

Most Fish

Smallest Fish

Every child will receive a ribbon for participation and we will have raffles for participants and for the parents that brought their children to participate. 

This event is FREE!  All we ask is that you bring a bucket and a pole (one per child) and a life jacket if needed.  We will provide the first 10 meal worms for free, and additional bait can be brought along or bought within the Marina!  We are limited to the first 100 kids to pre-register. 

Pre-registration has already begun and has been filling up quickly.  You can do this by contacting April Vertako at amvertako@basspro.com or by telephone at 816-795-4307.  Once you pre-register you will receive a confirmation e-mail with the rules and regulations of the derby.

In addition to the Fishing Derby, there will be fun family activities all day long Saturday at National Marina Day!  Games, crafts, boat rides and seminars are just a taste of what will be going on! The Boy Scouts will also have concessions available if you are looking for a place to grab a quick bite to eat inbetween all the fun activities!

It's that time of the year again - The crappie and bass are starting to move up to spawning grounds, snagging season is in full force, mushrooms are starting pop-up with all that much needed rain, and of course the turkeys are strutting and sounding off with booming gobbles. Youth Season just ended with mixed results. Some good stories (see picture) and some not so good stories. A little less than 3900 birds taken during the 2 day season here in Missouri.  This is down around a 1,000 birds from last year. Our up and down weather is to blame. The old saying - "if you don't like Missouri weather just wait 24 hours". Could not have anymore truth to it then this year. But, with the good weather we have had the last 2 springs, the turkey hatches have been the best they have been in close to 8 years. Which means there should be alot of 2 year old birds that are eager to come running to your calls.

With that being said, there are alot of new calls, decoys, and gadgets out this year to make your hunt memorable. The one I'm most excited about is the new Redhead remote decoy stake ($49.99) or Stake and strutter combo ($99.99). It worked great for me during the youth season. It works on almost every brand of strutter decoys and even your favorite hen or Jake decoy. I used it on my Zink hen decoy and the tom could not stand it. The stake runs on 4 AA batteries and has a wireless remote. If you are looking to spice up your spread, you have got to check it out. For everyone looking to replace some old decoys. Zink Avian has added a new full strut tom ($119.99) to their line of life-like decoys. If you are looking for detail and realism, Zink is second to none. They have 3 different hen models. The lookout, feeder, breeder ($79.99 your choice), Jake decoy ($99.99), and the new strutter ($119.99). I have had a pair of the hens for 2 seasons now. All I can say is WOW!!! They really pull those toms in.

For the hunter looking for a new call to try this spring, Flextone has 2 new tube calls. The thunder cluck-n-purr and the cut'n. ($15.99 your choice). Perfect call for the expert or novice. The rubber construction is very durable and the small design fits easy into a shirt pocket. Cluck-n-purr model is great for the hunter looking for the softer turkey sounds like yelps, purrs and clucks. If you want to get him fired up with loud yelps and cut's then cut'n model is right for you. The easy to blow design will have you calling like a pro in no time. If friction calls are your liking, check out the new Redhead Reality Series. It comes in 3 different styles: Slate, Glass, and Aluminum ($19.99 your choice). Great sounding calls that are sure to put the odds in your favor on your next hunt. That's all I have for now. Until next time - have a safe and successful turkey season from all of us here at your Independence Bass Pro Shops!

-- Anthony Alkire, Team Lead in Hunting

Looking for a comfortable shoe while still sporting this season’s new trends?  Bass Pro Shops is offering, new this spring, select woman’s Sperry Top-Siders.  You can choose from a wide selection of colorful designs, prints, and patterns.  Either dress-up or casualize fun spring looks with these every-day wear styles.  These new styles offer constant comfort while still looking fresh and trendy.  From simple and laid-back to touches of glitz and glamour, there is a look for everyone!

Sperry Top-Sider® Angelfish Slip-On Boat Shoes for Ladies - Pewter/Charcoal Glitter - Price:  $89.99

Sperry Top-Sider® Bahama 2-Eye Boat Shoes for Ladies - Silver Glitter/Grey - Price:  $79.99

Sperry Top-Sider® Bahama 2-Eye Boat Shoes for Ladies - Black/Zebra Sequins - Price:  $74.99

Sperry Top-Sider® Angelfish Slip-On Boat Shoes for Ladies - Black/Zebra Sequins - Price:  $89.99

Sperry Top-Siders offers both quality and comfort with their high-performance footware.  While still offering a feminine twist, styles offer hand sewn construction, padded tongues, and EVA cushioned midsoles for durable comfort.  Non-marking rubber outsoles and stain and water resistant leather uppers are just a few features offered among these styles.  A 360 degree lacing system paired with rust proof eyelets offer a more secure fit to these signature slip-ons.  Step into spring in both style and comfort and stop by your local Bass Pro Shops today where a footwear associate would be happy to help you pick out your new pair of Sperrys!

We have some exciting Free Outdoor Skills Workshops coming up in the month of April.  Fly tying, Beginners Archery, Turkey Hunting Seminars, and knot tying are just a few of the seminars we will be offering this month.  Please see below for dates, times and descriptions and how you can pre-register for these classes!

Fly Tying: 

Ever wondered how to tie flies? We have informational and hands-on training sessions on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm in our fly shop. Come learn a new hobby! Registration is required. Please call 816-795-4300 and ask for a fly shop associate for more information. Class sizes are limited; classes are free but you will need to bring or purchase your own supplies.

Choosing the Right Camo For Turkey Hunting:

This seminar will take place upstairs near the Optics counter on our bridge at 2pm on Saturday, April 6th and Sunday, April 7th.  Come and discover which camo is going to work best for Missouri turkey hunting.  Make sure you have all the right gear before heading out. You will not need to pre-register for this class.

Take Aim!  Beginners Archery:

This class will focus on the basics of archery:

• Learning the safety first

• Importance of the parts of the bow

• Proper stance

• Achieving a good shot

This is a great family activity – they are open to the public, FREE, and taught by some of our seasoned Archery Staff in the store. Take Aim is a class for those who want to explore the sport of Archery. You are more than welcome to bring your own equipment, but it is not required.  Please call or e-mail April at 816-795-4307 or amvertako@basspro.com to reserve your spot. Classes will take place in our Archery Range in the Hunting Department on April 9^th and April 16th at 7pm. Class size is limited and you must sign a waiver to participate. 

Advanced Turkey Calling:

Join us for instruction on Advanced Turkey Calling on Saturday, April 13 & Sunday April 14 at 2pm. This seminar will be taught by Norbert, who is an active member of NWTF and a very seasoned turkey hunter and caller. This seminar will be held upstairs on our bridge near the optics counter.  No need to preregister for this seminar. 

Basic Knot Tying For Fishing:

Friday, April 19th at 7pm in the Conservation Room

Knots do not have to be difficult, but you need to make sure you have the right one on there to reel in that big fish.  Come discover some basic knots and bring your questions.  There will be hands on demonstrations.  We ask that you please preregister for this seminar by emailing April at amvertako@basspro.com or by calling 816-795-4307.

Youth Archery:

We will be having a Youth Archery seminar on Saturday, April 20 & Sunday, April 21 at 2pm in our Archery Range.  No supplies needed.  Bring the kids up to learn proper stance, safety, and how Archery can be a fun sport.  Please preregister for this class by calling April at 816-795-4307 or e-mail at amvertako@basspro.com

Hiking 101:

Thursday, April 25th at 7pm

Come join Jeff as he talks about everything you need to know about making your next hiking trip the best trip of your life.  He will discuss proper footwear, hiking packs, and what to pack.  Please preregister for this class by e-mail - amvertako@basspro.com or by telephone at 816-795-4307.

Spring Food Plots:

Come join us as we talk about getting Spring Food Plots planted on Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28 at 2pm.  These seminars will be held upstairs on the bridge near our optics counter.  No need to preregister for this seminar.

Camping Critters:  Let’s Talk Fishing!

Tuesday, April 30th in the Conservation Room at 10:30am

Open to toddler's aged 2 - 5 years.

Come in and have some fun with our new Toddler Program - Camping Critters!  This month, we will talk about how much fun fishing can be.  Some of our topics include local fishing, learning the different parts of a fishing pole, and let the kids try their skills out at casting.  We have some drinks and snacks as well and will finish up the morning by reading a story.  This program normally lasts about an hour long.  Space is limited - we ask you call or e-mail April for preregistration - amvertako@basspro.com or 816-795-4307.

We hope you will be able to come in and join us for one of these fun free seminars soon!

Chris Jones is the owner and guide at Catfish Pursuit Guide Service and also our local Catfish Pro Staff for the Independence Missouri Bass Pro Shops Store. He has been fishing for trophy blue cats for over 25 years with his personal best blue catfish being 84 pounds which was caught on Lake of the Ozarks in 2003.  His personal best flathead catfish is 68 pounds and was caught in a local private lake. He has a passion for the outdoors and strongly supports CPR (catch, photograph, release) of all trophy blue catfish over 10 pounds to help preserve our fishery for our future fishermen.

Mr. Jack Vanderpool showing off one of his many catches of the day!

"I fished on Thursday, March 14th, 2013 on the upper end of Lake of the Ozarks and the fish had moved up shallow on the mud flats.  Caught 32 nice blue cats and they were all in 1-5 feet of water feeding heavily on shad.  The main channel was still 42 degrees and the shallow water in the coves was 48.5 in the afternoon which is why the fish had moved there.  The bite was fast and furious and everything was caught on fresh cut shad.  With the colder weather this week I would look for fish to be back in the deeper water staging on channel ledges.  On sunny days especially in the afternoon, then the fish may move shallow again to warm up but I would start looking for fish in the deeper water.  The fish in the deeper water are still biting light and will be until the main channel water temperature reaches 50 degrees."   - Chris Jones, Catfish Persuit Guide Service & Bass Pro Shops Independence Fishing Pro Staff

Come join in the fun as the Professional Bull Riders ride back into town at your Independence Bass Pro Shops!

Saturday, February 23 from 10am - 3pm

Join in some fun activities:

• Free Mechanical Bull Rides (Must sign waver)
• Stick Bull Riding
• Bull Roping

From Noon - 1pm, join us for a PBR autograph signing!

At 1pm, join Announcer and experience angler Clint Adkins as he provides a fun and interesting seminar at our main aquarium.

Did we mention this is all FREE?

Don't forget to pick up your tickets for the Built Ford Tough Invitational at the Sprint Center on Saturday, February 23 and Sunday, February 24.  Tickets can be purchased here.

We are extremely excited to announce that we will be having a once a month dad/mom and me program aimed at Toddlers aged 2 - 5 years old.  These programs will bring nature to them!  The program is called Camping Critters and will be held the last Tuesday of the month from 10am - 11:30pm January - September and will be held in our Conservation Room. 

January's topic will be "Winter in the Woods".  We will talk about how animals survive the winter - important things they need as well as ways we still know that they are around us.  We will be painting a wooden birdhouse for them to take home.  We will also have a small snack and water for the kids.

This program will be limited to the first 20 kids to sign up due to limitations of the room and size of the group (with mom's and dad's).  This will be a fun, FREE, educational experience for the kids and will help them interact with other children as well.

If you are interested in this event, please call April at 816-795-4300 or e-mail amvertako@basspro.com to reserve your spot today!  Also, check out our outdoor skills workshops we having coming up for the month of February!

Things you can do to beat the winter blues (and get ready for the new year)

1. Clean your reels and get them ready for the 2013 fishing season.  It’s crazy how dust can gunk up the gears and insides of your equipment.
2. While you are cleaning your reels, make sure you oil up the gears and replace your fishing line.  It is amazing how tangled your inside can get over a season of fishing.
3. Clean your guns.  Those can build up on dust and residue as they sit over long winter months.  Time to clean out the shotguns in preparation for Spring Turkey season.
4. Join our Redhead Shooting Range!  We offer a great deal on range time for a year.  This includes both our pistol range in the store as well as our Archery Range. 
5. Learn how to tie flies.  We offer twice a week fly tying classes at 6:30pm on Monday and Wednesday evenings in our fly shop. 
6. Take a CCW Class.  We have classes here twice a month for $70.  Check out this website for more information.
7. Interested in Ducks, Quail, Elk, Turkey, Deer, Bass or Pheasants?  Join your local chapter of Ducks Unlimited, Quail Forever, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, National Wild Turkey Federation, Quality Deer Management Association, Bassmaster club, or Pheasants Forever.  They are always recruiting new members and these groups do a lot to conserve conservation for years to come.
8. Nice weather?  Take someone out to do something in the outdoors – whether it be a short hike, a bit of fishing off the dock, or a short bike ride.  Winter is not always cold!  If it is – there is always sledding!
9. Start researching fun getaways for the warmer months.  This could be a family vacation (Big Cedar Lodge anyone?), fishing trip, or hunting trip.  Some places if you book early trips, you often get a discount.
10. Come visit us here in the store.  It is always nice and warm with lots of friendly faces to help you discover what you might be missing for your next outdoor adventure.  We have free Outdoor Skills Workshops held here on a monthly basis, as well as much, much more!

Local Hero's Night is a exclusive night to honor our Fire Departments, Sheriffs' offices, Police Departments, Emergency Responders, and Military Facilities.

On Sunday, December 9th from 7pm - 10pm these Local Heroes can benefit from:

• 10% off your total qualifying purchase

• Free Craft for the Kids from 7pm - 9pm

• Free 4x6 Photo with Santa as well as 10% off your photo package purchase

• Gift Card Drawings starting at 7:30pm, every half hour until 9pm for our hero's who are present

For questions, please call 816-795-4300. 

Please share this post with all your favorite local hero's!

The Magic Returns.....

Saturday, November 10th

5pm

Join us as we welcome Santa back to Independence Bass Pro Shops!

• Magical Tree Lighting
• Arrival of Santa
• Unveiling of Santa's Wonderland
• Carolers
• Free craft and coloring book (6pm - 8pm while supplies last)
• $25 Bass Pro Shop gift card draws starting at 5pm - 7:30pm
• Free cookies and McStevens hot chocolate (while supplies last)
• Free Photo with Santa from 6pm - 8pm that evening

Looking for a mighty awesome breakfast meal that will keep you going for hours?  Make sure you check out this meaty and delicous breakfast casserole meal.

• 1/2lb of mild country sausage

• 1 package of bacon

• 1/2 ham steak (fully cooked)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 12 eggs, beaten

• 1 2lb bag of shredded hashbrowns
• 1 16oz bag of shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt & Pepper beaten eggs to taste

Campfire cooking at it's best!

1. Build a campfire and allow the fire to burn until it has accumulated a bed of coals.
2. Cook and stir the sausage, bacon, ham, onion, and garlic in a 12-inch cast iron Dutch oven with lid, raised over the coals to medium-high heat, until the sausage is no longer pink and the onion is tender. Stir in the red bell pepper and hash brown potatoes until evenly mixed. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the hashbrowns are hot and the red peppers are tender, about 12 - 15 minutes.
3. Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the top of the hashbrowns, allowing them to sink into the potatoes. Cover the Dutch oven, and place 6 to 9 coals underneath, and 12 to 18 on top. Allow to bake until the eggs are firm, about 40 minutes. Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese, cover, and continue cooking until the cheese has melted, about 5 minutes.

This meal will be sure to tickle your fancy on a cold morning before hitting the stands.  Don't forget the extra garnishments like Tabasco, Ketchup, or Sour Cream.

Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event will lasso you in for some good hometown fun! 

Saturday October 13: Try your luck at our Stick Bull Riding or Bull Roping activities.  We will also have a leather wristband craft (very popular from our summer camp event) and coloring pages.  You can also get your face painted like Flint the rodeo clown.  At 1pm, you will have the opportunity to meet a PBR Expert on from 1-2pm!!

Sunday October 14:  Try your luck at our Stick Bull Riding or Bull Roping activities.
We will also have a leather wristband craft (very popular from our summer camp event) and coloring pages.  You can also get your face painted like Flint the rodeo clown.  Our special activity on Sunday will be our Best Dressed Cowboy or Cowgirl! THIS EVENT WILL BE SUNDAY ONLY!!!!!  Round up the kids and sign them up to compete in this contest! Judging will begin at 2:30 pm and the winner will be announced at 3:00pm! The winner of this contest will be presented with a gift card!

2012 Fall Fishing Event

Saturday, September 22 & 29

Sunday, September 23 & 30

Kid's Activities:

Beginning Fishing for Kid's Workshop - Noon until 1pm

Learn the basics to get started fishing.  This class will include hands-on casting instruction.

Paint a Fish Sun Catcher:  1-3pm

For the adults:

Fish Hatcheries - Where Do These Fish Go? - September 22 & 30 at 2pm

Knowing Your Lakes and Streams for Fall Fishing - September 23 & 29 at 2pm

Visit with Bob Mattucks from the Missouri Department of Conservation as he discusses area fishing and what is available around our community.

Selecting the Right Baits - September 22 at 3pm

Visit with our experts on selecting the right lure in the right color for the fall season.

Changing Water Conditions and Finding Fish -September 23 at 3pm

Water conditions change with the changing weather.  Learn how to find the best spots to fish.

Electronics and Finding Fish - September 29 at 3pm

Learn how to use you GPS to find the best catch in various kinds of water.

Fall Fishing Tips from the Pros - September 30 at 3pm

Learn from the experts about tips on local water conditions to selecting the right equipment.

First 50 customers to our 2pm seminar each day will receive  a special 3 in 1 keychain (whistle, compass, thermometer)

For any additional information on these seminars, please contact April at 816-795-4307.  You do not need to sign up in advance for these seminars.

For those of you who were able to make it to our Sunday Dutch Oven Cooking class that took place over Labor Day weekend, you might have been able to try our last recipe posted for Deer Camp - 4 Man Chili.  It was so good! 

This week we keep it hot and explore chicken!

Dutch Oven Chicken

6 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

1 large whole onion, sliced to perfection

1 medium sized green pepper, sliced to perfection

1 package of brown sugar bacon

1 cup of buttermilk

1 can of cream of chicken soup

1 can of mushroom soup

4 large skinned potatoes; sliced

6 carrots, skinned and sliced

1/4 tsp of garlic powder

2 tablespoons of oil

Salt and Pepper to Taste

Heat oil, combine onion, green pepper and bacon and saute in a dutch oven for 4 minutes.  Add potatoes and carrots and cook for another 4 minutes.  Add all other ingredients and slow cook in the dutch oven for 1 1/2 hours or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes and carrots are soft.  Don't forget to stir every 15 minutes or so.  6 servings

Keep posted for our next deer camp entry.  Also, don't forget to check out our Dutch Oven class on September 22nd at 2pm in our camping department! 

Join us for some FREE Outdoor Skills Workshops in the month of September!

Fly Tying:  Every Monday & Wednesday at 6:30pm in the Fly Shop.  Some supplies are required and you need to call 816-795-4300 and ask for the fly shop to pre-register for the class.  This class runs throughout the year.

Take Aim! Archery Basics:   Every 2nd and 3rd Tuesday's of the month in our Archery Range.  All supplies are furnished.  Class size is limited to 10 participants.  Classes for September are currently closed but we are pre-registering for our October classes currently.  Please call 816-795-4307 to get on the list!

Advanced Bass Tactics:  Friday, September 14th at 7pm in the Conservation Room.  No supplies required unless you would like to bring a pen and some paper for notes.  Please pre-register for this class.

Winterizing Your Boat: Thursday, September 20th at 7pm in the Conservation Room.  Bought a new boat recently or need a refresher on what you should to to make sure your boat makes it through the harsh winter months??  This seminar is for you.  Please pre-register by calling 816-795-4307

Dutch Oven Cooking:    Saturday, September 22 at 2pm in the Camping Department.  Come discover some tasty treats that always seem to taste better when you cook them outside in a dutch oven!  Please pre-register with April at 816-795-4307.

Introducing Your Kids To Hunting:  Tuesday, September 25 at 7pm in the Conservation Room.  This class will cover some good tips and techniques on introducing your child to the world of hunting.  Please pre-register by calling April at 816-795-4307

Please check regularly as our free outdoor skills workshops change monthly.

Free, Fun Family Activities happening on Labor Day Weekend!
Join us on Saturday, September 1st and Sunday, September 2nd for our Labor Day Hometown Festival from Noon - 5pm!

Free Family Activities

-Net-A-Fish Pond Game-

-Metal Detector Treasure Hunt-

-Bean Bag Toss-

-Casting Buckets-

Complete all 4 activities & spin the Prize Wheel!!!!

Also don't miss out on our other fun things!!

*Free leaf craft from 1pm - 4pm*
*Hot Dogs from 1pm - 3pm*
*Food Samples*
*Fashion Show at 2pm & 4pm*
*Gift Card Giveaways - Three $25 Bass Pro Shops Gift Cards given away each day*
*Free Face Painting*

Saturday:
1pm: "Smokin' & Grillin' - Freshen up on your grillin' techniques and learn all about smokin' on the grill
3pm: Power vs. Finesse Fishing, Tackle & Tactics
Sunday:
1pm: Dutch Oven Cooking Techniques - Preparation, Procedure, and Proper Practice"
3pm: "Smokin' & Grillin' - Freshen up on your grillin' techniques and learn all about smokin' on the grill

*Free Product Demos*
2pm - Saturday and Sunday - Join us in the Archery Range for some Archery fun!

For additional information, please e-mail April Vertako at amvertako@basspro.com

Let's face it.  Deer hunting is around the corner.  Everyone is getting all of their things ready now - Food Plots, Trail Cams, Hunting Gear, etc.  Pretty soon, it's going to be that time of the year again!  While many of you are daydreaming about your next big trophy on the wall, you probably aren't even focused on setting up what I like to call Deer Camp.  It's that special place you have a cabin, or a tent that you tend to only go to a few times a year. 

So, I am here today to give you some ideas on making sure you have a full belly.  Yep, you cannot gain all that energy back without a good cooked campfire meal.  So I'm hoping this Dutch Oven 4 Man Chili will send your taste buds a buzzing!  Nothing beats a good bowl of chili.  Here's what you are going to need in the form of ingredients:

1 cup of Hot Italian Sausage

1 cup of Ground Beef

4 minced garlic cloves

1 large onion diced

2 Tablespoons of Oil

2 - 15 oz. cans of chili beans (don't drain them)

2 - 15oz cans of tomato sauce

1 - 28oz can of whole tomatoes (drain and crush these)

1 cup of beef broth

2 Tablespoons of Chili Powder

2 Tablespoons of Diced Jalapenos - seeded and diced (only if you want it super hot)

Things you can add on top like sour cream and cheese are optional.

Now you are ready to cook:

Combine the Sausage, Beef, garlic and onion in the hot oil until meat is no longer pink - drain remaining grease off the meat combination.  Add everything else:  Chili beans, tomato sauce, whole tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder and jalapenos.  Don't add your optional sour cream or cheese yet.  Stir until all ingredients are mixed together and let this simmer uncovered for 40 minutes.   Once this step is completed, your chili is ready to serve and guests can add what they would like.

This recipe will make 6 servings. 

Keep posted for some other great cooking ideas for your Deer Camp needs!

Fall Hunting Classic 2012 Events and Activities

Bow Trade-In Runs August 3 - August 8.  Take advantage of your coupon for an amount off your new bow depending upon the price of the new bow. 

Sunday, August 5th - National Pro Seminars

1pm - Bart & Blair Goins Present:  Filming Hunts and Our Experiences as Cast Members on "Dream Season" TV

2PM - Allen Morris Presents:  Call More Preditors Using Both Electronic and Hand Calls

Scope Trade-In Runs August 9th - August 14.  Take advantage of your coupon for an amount off your new scope depending upon the price of the new scope.

Friday, August 10 through Sunday, August 12 - Vendor Booths

Join us as we welcome several vendors from many of the hunting products we carry in store.  These guys are great experts and will be able to answer questions about products that you present to them.  Hours are:

Friday, August 10:  10am - 8pm

Saturday, August 11:  10am - 6pm

Sunday, August 12:  10am - 5pm

Local Pro-Staff Seminars

Friday, August 10

6:00pm – “Using Big Game Scents & Calls Effectively”

7:00pm – “Gear Choices in Holsters, Tactical Clothing and Personal Defense Accessories”

8:00pm – “Scent Control for the 2012 Hunting Season/What’s New in Scent Control Apparel and Sprays”

Saturday, August 11

1:00pm – “Using Big Game Scents & Calls Effectively”

2:00pm – “Gear Choices in Holsters, Tactical Clothing and Personal Defense Accessories”

3:00pm – “Scent Control for the 2012 Hunting Season/What’s New in Scent Control Apparel and Sprays”

4:00pm – “Choosing the Right Optics”

5:00pm – “Fundamentals of Long Range Hunting & Shooting”

Sunday, August 12

1:00pm – “Tips for Game Camera Placement”

2:00pm – “Fundamentals of Long Range Hunting & Shooting”

3:00pm – “Field Dressing, Transporting & Processing Game”

4:00pm – “Choosing the Right Optics”

Women In The Outdoors Annual Event - Friday, August 10 & Saturday, August 11

Friday, August 10th kicks off the WITO annual Women's event.  This group is a division of the National Wild Turkey Federation.  The kick off on Friday evening includes a Fashion Show and Weanie Roast.  Saturday morning the group continues their 2 day event with all day seminars, fun raffles and activities. 

ATV Ride and Drive

Meet with our professional staff and test drive ATV's from Noon to 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday, August 11th and 12th.

Binocular Trade-In Runs August 15 - August 19.  Take advantage of a coupon for trading in your binoculars or rangefinder towards the purchase of a new pair of binoculars or rangfinder dependent upon the price of the new item you are wanting to purchase.

August 17-19 - Next Generation Weekend

Noon - 5pm

Turkey Craft 1pm - 4pm

• *NEW* Airsoft Target Shoot
• Paintball Cage
• Bass Pro Shops Next Generation Youth Seminars - Learn the basics for safe, fun and accurate airsoft shooting and archery!  (Friday:  4:30pm-Archery Basics, Saturday: 2:30pm-Airsoft Shooting Basics, 4:30pm-Archery Basics, Sunday: 2:30pm-Archery Basics, 4:30pm-Airsoft Shooting Basics)
• Free Photo Opportunity at the Airsoft range
• Free Giveaways for the first 100 kids to complete the activities!

BONUS PRO APPEARANCE!

Sunday, August 18th from 1pm - 3pm

Heartland Bowhunters Shawn Luchtel and Mike Hunsucker will be present to discuss tips and tricks for a successful bow season. 

Any questions regarding any of these events can be sent to April at amvertako@basspro.com.  Hope to have you join us for some fun!!!!

1.  Tent - With shelter being the top thing I could think of when I would go camping, there are many different tents a person can choose from depending upon the activities they are planning/doing or how many people and how comfortable you would like to be while you are out in the wilderness.  A person who is biking or hiking could go with the Ascend Ultra-Light 1 Person Backpacking tent.  This tent is lightweight, easy to carry around, quick with set-up and perfect for someone who is out alone and making quick stops.  For a large family, or someone who would want to stay more comfortable, I would suggest the Coleman Prairie Breeze 9-person Cabin Tent.  This tent features LED lighting, a fan, and it is compatible with the CPX6 Coleman System.  It has a lot of space, which is perfect for a growing or larger family.
2. Sleeping bag – When deciding on a sleeping bag, you will want to think about when you typically go camping.  For someone who primarily camps in the Summertime, you won’t need a sleeping bag that is typically for winter (think 0 degree bag), but one that is more for warmer climates such as the Ascend 55 degree Rectangular Bag.  Coleman also has a sleeping bag that is good for most times of the year - it's called the Signature Outdoor Gear 20-70 degree multipurpose sleeping bag.  This bag should bring your comfort throughout the year.
3. Self-Inflating Air Mattress - This isn't something that you HAVE to have, but it will bring you comfort when lying on a ground that is hard and normally not completely flat.  Self inflating mats are great because they are easy to pack and don't take up much space.  With air mattresses, you are going to have to pack the bulky mattress, and also the air compressor.  A self inflating air mat is going to fold up or roll up much like a sleeping bag.  The Therm-a-Rest BaseCamp Self-Inflating Air Mattress can provide everything I described above.  It comes in many different sizes and lengths to best suit your needs.  If you are working on a tight budget, you might look into the Texsport Pack Lite Foam Pad - it doesn't have the self inflation, but at a fraction of the cost, you can easily roll up and roll down this mat - weighing only a total of 8lbs, 2oz.
4. Coolers - This is one of the most important things you need to make sure your food you bring along with you doesn't spoil.  One of my personal favorites is the Igloo Marine Breeze 28 Wheeled Cooler.  It's very easy to transport on the ground with the handle and the wheels and often one person can do the job.  If you are looking for something that will hold a lot of food you can try the Igloo Marine Ultra 94 Cooler - holding 94 quarts, you are sure to be able to pack enough food for your family camping trip!
5. Wood - This is a must have for your campfire.  Make sure you pack plenty of wood and fire starters to last you throughout your trip.
6. Lantern/Light Source - If you would like to go the old school way, you can get a Bass Pro Shops Two Mantle Propane Lantern.  These lanterns run off of Propane for their power source, so no need to pack extra batteries.  It is a very good light source, producing up to 600 candle power.  My favorite lantern is actually the Coleman LED Quad Lantern.  I really like this one because it can separate into 4 different lights off the actual lantern, which is perfect for late night trips to the restroom (and you won't have to search for a flashlight).  It is powered by reusable batteries and can run for 75 hours.
7. Dutch Oven - These are great for cooking.  I suggest getting a large one for cooking a family meal, and a smaller one for some yummy desserts. 
8. Skillet - On the topic of cooking, a skillet is a must for campfire (think sizzling bacon on a fresh crisp morning).  I suggest at least taking 1 12 inch or larger skillet.
9. First Aid Kit - One of the most important things you can take with you.  The Bass Pro Shops First Aid Kit - Family Kit is great for camping.  There is enough supplies in this kit for 6 days.  For someone who is going out hiking or backpacking on their own, there is a smaller kit available that would be more suitable.
10. Camping tableware and cutlery - The Light My Fire Outdoor Mealkit includes everything you will need for a good meal out on the firepit.  It includes 2 plates, cup, spork, colander/cutting board and a waterproof cover. 
11. Roasting Sticks - It's not camping unless you have your roasting sticks for late night roasted marshmallows, or afternoon roasted hot dogs!
12. Water Bottle - Having a good water bottle can make all the difference on an outing.  The CamelBak Eddy .6L Bottle is a good place to start.  It is spill proof and very tough.
13. Outdoor Chairs - If you don't have any good stumps or logs nearby, you are going to need some good quality outdoor chairs.  The Bass Pro Shops Basic Camp Chair will provide plenty of nice relaxing evenings.  It has a water resistant polyester fabric and a durable steel frame.
14. Bug Spray - These nasty critters are things we cannot seem to avoid, so it is always best to come prepared.  A good can of bug spray is always packed in our bags.  Repel 100 Insect Repellent Pump Spray is a good spray with 100% deet.  If you are outside and looking for a good candle to burn to keep those nasty bugs away, I suggest bringing along a Repel Insect Repellent Citronella Candle.  This 10 oz. candle can burn up to 20 hours.
15. Tent Fan - It can get awfully stuffy inside a tent, so it is always good to have some air circulation inside.  Coleman has some excellent tent fans available - including the Cool Zephyr Tent Window Fan.  The blades are foam so they are soft to touch and it is held up with a magnetic plate.  Run on batteries, it can run on low for nearly 40 hours before you will need to replace the batteries.  Coleman also has another fan called the CPX6 Lighted Tent Fan.  If you get into the CPX6 system, these battery cells can be recharged, thus saving you money on batteries.  Runtime on light and fan in high setting for this fan is 10 hours, however you can run 30 hours with light and fan on in the low setting. 

These are just a few of the suggested larger items I would take with me on a camping trip.  Of course, you will want to pack your clothing, some foil for cooking, toiletries, extra batteries, food, and anything else that is a must need for your family to make your trip fun, enjoyable and comfortable.  Camping is a great activity for folks of all ages.  Make sure you are safe and enjoy the great outdoors!