Top 10 things to get your Mom for Mother’s Day from Bass Pro Shops:

10:  Athena String Bead Necklace (Cream):  This necklace is bound to go with multiple summer outfits.  Mom will go crazy over this cute necklace that features glass beads.  $12.99

9:  Ascend Annie Tote:  This classic tote bag can also transform into a backpack!  This bag is perfect for hiking, grocery shopping, or a walk in the park.  2 colors to choose from:  Blue/Grey or Grey/Black.  $54.00

8:  foneGEAR iPhone Hard Shell Pink Camo Case:  Dazzle mom’s phone up with a cute pink camo cover for her iPhone.  Protection at its best!  $14.99

7:  Oakley Dangerous Non-Polarized Sunglasses:  Designed perfectly to cradle any ladies face with the 3 point fit, these sunglasses are fun and stylish.   $180.00

6:  10” Iron Stop Animated Wind Spinner:   With many different options to choose from, you can find the perfect one for mom!  Butterflies, Cardinals, Hummingbird, Dolphins – and many others as well perfect for indoor or outdoor use!  $19.99

5:  Natural Reflections® Canvas Moc Slip On Shoes for Ladies – Beige:  These cute slip on shoes are great for a day out with the family.  Very comfortable and stylish made with 100% canvas.   $24.99

4:  Sabre Red® NBCF PINK Quick Release Key Ring Pepper Spray:  This is perfect for the special lady in your life that is constantly on the go, joggers, or woman who enjoy being outdoors.  Shooting 8-10 feet, this product combines pepper spray with CS Tear Gas.  $12.99

3: Bass Pro Shops® Lady Lite Rod and Reel Spinning Combo:  Features a light graphite frame, this combo is sure to catch her eye, as well as fish.  With the convenient 2 piece construction,  it is great for a lady on the go.  $39.99

2: Wish® Pearl Sterling Silver Necklace Gift Set:  Let mom open up the mollusk and pull the pearl out herself!  She can make a wish and insert the pearl into this charming necklace.  This is a perfect activity for a mom to do with her little ones and memories to cherish forever.  $29.95

1:  Bob Timberlake® Floral Maxi Dress for Ladies:  This comfortable and casual dress will make mom light up – perfect for Spring and Summer!  $58.00

 

If you are looking for something super yummy, you can always visit our Fudge Shop.  They have many different things that will please mom.  A couple of yummy new flavors are Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Root Beer Float!

Set Your Sights event will be taking place this weekend at your Independence Bass Pro Shops.  There are a lot of great seminars going on put on by some great and knowledgeable people.  This event kicks off at 6pm on Friday, May 4th and will run both Saturday, May 5^th and Sunday, May 6^th as well.  Along with our seminars, we will have reloading demonstrations going on during times that we do not have a reloading seminar.  There will also be gift card drawings at the end of each seminar, as well as a chance to sign up for a chance to win either a Remington 700 ADL or an Otis Technology Elite Gun Cleaning System.  On Saturday, the first 50 people who attend our seminars will receive a Shot Lock 3000 Gun Lock. 

Friday Night Seminars:

• At 6pm we start off with Guns and Accessories for your Modern Sports Rifle Project.  One of our associates will talk about many of the different items we have available and will also have an example of a MSR he has worked up himself.
• At 7pm, Dutch’s CCW will be in to discuss Conceal-Carry – A Discussion of Laws, Permits, and Equipment.  These guys put on a really great CCW class in our store for a really reasonable price.
• At 8pm, Randy; one of our store associates, will be here to talk about Reloading Basics.  He will discuss why it can be good to reload, selection of the right equipment, and tips and tricks for success.

Saturday & Sunday Seminars:

• At 1pm we start off with Guns and Accessories for your Modern Sports Rifle Project.  One of our associates will talk about many of the different items we have available and will also have an example of a MSR he has worked up himself.
• At 2pm, Dutch’s CCW will be in to discuss Conceal-Carry – A Discussion of Laws, Permits, and Equipment.  These guys put on a really great CCW class in our store for a really reasonable price.
• At 3pm, Randy; one of our store associates, will be here to talk about Reloading Basics.  He will discuss why it can be good to reload, selection of the right equipment, and tips and tricks for success.
• At 4pm, Dutch’s CCW will be back once again but this time to discuss in detail what CCW is – everything you should expect by attending one of Dutch’s classes, the cost, who exactly is eligible to get a CCW permit and how you can sign up for one of their classes.

 

You won’t want to miss out on stopping in to say hi to Pioneer Gun Club as well.  They will have a table set up to discuss the many different activities they have to offer.  The Redhead Gun Range will also have a small table set up to talk about the yearly memberships we offer here in our own store.

One thing any person who enjoys boating over the summer needs to consider is water shoes or finding the right type of footwear for your water and boating needs.

One product that has just recently come out on the market that Bass Pro Shops has now started to carry is the Wave Water Skele-Toes by Fila.

These shoes have some great features – for land or for water:

• Close toed shoe
• Flexible individual toe slots
•  Great Water Drainage System
• Mesh Footbed
• Heel pull tabs
• Combined slot for two smallest toes (which make them much easier to put on)
• Neoprene on the upper side of the shoe

 

With the average weight of the dry shoe being 11oz, these are great and lightweight for you to even carry around.  They come in men’s and woman’s sizes and have a couple of color combos.   Right now the Water Wave Skele-Toes shoe will run you $49.99.

Not only do the Fila Skele-Toes come in a water shoe, but they also come in what I like to describe as a comfort shoe (but is is known as the EZ Slide Skele-Toe). 

The EZ Slide also has some great features:

• 4-way stretch/2-ply nylon upper
• Bungee cord lacing
• Hook ’n’ loop straps for custom fit
• Individual toe slots
• Combined slot for two smallest toes
• Ultra-flexible cushioned Superaction injection EVA midsoles
• High-tech, fused, no-sew uppers
• Minimal Ever-Grind rubber outsole inserts
• Integrated heel pull tabs

 

Did I mention this shoe looks fantastic in the AP- Camo print it comes in?  It weighs a tad bit more than the Wave Water – it comes in dry at 1lb 4 oz.  This shoe will run you $49.99 as well.

There are also a couple other types of Skele-Toes, but these shoes are something you shouldn’t knock until you give it a try.  I think they can best be described as feeling like you don’t even have shoes on.  If you are the type of person who doesn’t like to wear shoes without your socks, you are in luck!  Fila also makes a special sock just for these shoes!  Next time you pop into the store, make sure you visit the Fila Skele-Toe display and ask a friendly associate to try a pair on.  It will be a fun experience!

The month of April has much in store for our families here at Independence Bass Pro Shops. 

Easter Bunny is here with us one more weekend!  Make sure you stop by and see Easter Bunny on Saturday from 11am - 3pm for a free photo or Sunday from 1pm - 4pm.  Our Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday & Sunday April 7 & April 8 from 1pm - 2pm. It is for children between the ages of 2 - 10. They will have the opportunity to go to 5 different departments and collect 1 egg each (total of 5 eggs) and come back to exchange the eggs for a special treat! Registration Table will be located near the front entrance.

We will also have some fun crafts for the kids. Friday April 6th (6pm - 8pm), Saturday April 7 and Sunday April 8th (Saturday and Sunday Noon - 3pm) the kids can decorate their own Easter egg or paint a suncatcher while supplies last.

Kid's can test their skills during our Spring Kid's Challenge!  From Noon - 4pm on Saturday, April 21st and Sunday, April 22nd, kids can compete in our Casting Challenge, Archery, Sleeping Bag Challenge, Life Jacket Race, and Knot Tying Challenge.  There will also be a fun craft and prizes when you complete the challenges.  This will be taking place outside in our West parking lot!

 

Finally, we are also happy to announce our First Annual Bass Pro Shops Independence Kid's Fishing Derby!  This FREE event is scheduled for Saturday, April 28th from 8am - 12pm at Waterfall Park which is the park and lake behind our store!  We are taking preregistration for 50 kids to participate.  You can preregister by e-mailing April at amvertako@basspro.com.  There are 3 age categories:  2-6, 7-10, and 11-15.  Kid's will be fishing off the banks - we ask you to please bring your own fishing equipment and we will give you some bait to use (worms).  Kids will compete for the following in each age category:  Biggest Fish, Smallest Fish & Most Fish.  Once parents preregister their child or children, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with all the rules for this fishing derby.  Preregistration will close once we get to 50 kids or on Thursday, April 26th, which ever comes first. 

Surprisingly, this Missouri weather has proved good for mushroom seekers.  I have had several of my friends post photos on their Facebook pages about finding Morel Mushrooms near my hometown near Jefferson City.  I am by no means an expert on mushroom hunting, but I do recall how much fun it was when I was a kid.  With gas prices skyrocketing, I know I am scrambling myself to find fun things to do with my son.  Mushroom hunting is one of those things that with the proper shoes - I always preferred Rubber Boots because of the mud and the possibility of snakes – and an old potato sack or orange sack as these allow the spores to fall to the ground and will eventually produce more.  A person can actual fair pretty well if you find some.  These mushrooms make a great appetizer or embellishment to a meal.    You do need to make sure that you are finding the Morel Mushrooms though.  There are many mushrooms that are not great for us to eat and can be harmful or poisonous.  I would suggest going with someone who has been morel hunting before or do some additional research online before going out and picking them on your own. 

Some defining factors of a Morel Mushroom are:

• Hollow Cap
• Cone Shape directly attached to a hollow stem

The best time for a person to go out hunting for morels is once the weather gets into the mid to upper 60’s for a few days – the low at night cannot go below 40.  Some of my best hunting has come after a good rain.  One of the best spots I would tend to find morel’s is near dead logs or tree stumps.

Please make sure you read up on Rules and Regulations.  Missouri does not require you to have a Mushroom Hunting License but there are a few places around the area you are not allowed to hunt or pick them. 

Don't forget, there will be an informative seminar on Morel Mushrooms this Friday evening, March 30th in our Conservation Room at 7pm.  It is expected to be a pretty large turnout, so I suggest coming early to grab a seat. 

We have some very fun events and activities coming up in the next couple of weekends here at the store.  I want to highlight a couple of events that are not advertised in our sales flier.

This coming Saturday, March 24th, we have the opportunity to host the kick off event to Kansas City's Passport to Adventure.  This is an event that we usually host every other year, switching back and forth between the Olathe, Kansas store as well.  This fun and free event will give you an idea of the fun things we have to do in our own backyards! Visit booths and discover the treasures of local history, live animals, and even participate in some fun hands-on activities.  Don't forget to pick up your actual 2012 passport! Over the Spring, Summer, and early Fall, you can set out on your adventure to the different area natural and historical sites and once you answer a question, you can get your passport stamped!  When you complete your passport, you have until October 31st 2012 to turn it in to one of the participating sites to receive a special prize!  (Bass Pro is only holding the kick-off event and is not one of the participating sites).  This event is put on by the Interpretive Site Coalition.  This will be a fun and free event, so make sure and let your friends know!! Make sure to like them over on Facebook as well!  For more information on this event, please call 913-764-7759.

Next weekend, Saturday March 31 and Sunday, April 1; the 2nd Annual Kansas City collectors meeting of the American Broadhead Collectors Club will be in our Conservation Room. 

The Collectors in attendance have decided to open up their meeting on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday April 1st (will only be open from 10am - Noon on Sunday) to show off and display some of their broadhead and fishpoint collectibles.  This event is free and open to the public.  This is a  wonderful chance to open the history of archery to the interested public with some men and woman who are very knowledgeable about the items.

There are many other events happening the same weekend.  Stay tuned to our blog or visit our website for more information on other events!

As a kid, I remember going out fishing with my family.  One of the things we would always have to do is run down the hill to our compost pile and dig for worms.  The compost pile always seemed to have the best of the best – they always seemed to be the worms that would catch the best fish!  Sometimes living in the city doesn’t give you an option to having a compost pile, thus you are scrambling to find those much needed “money worms”. 

Bass Pro Shops has a really awesome kit that includes EVERYTHING except your worms.  You will still either need to hunt some worms down after a nice rain, buy, or order some to be sent to your house.  If you do not want to go that route, here is a fun project you can get the whole family involved with.

Things you will need:

• 1 Bin (shoebox size)
• Old newspaper
• Water
• Soil (enough to dust the top of container – think of it like putting sprinkles on the top of a birthday cake)
• Worms

What you will want to do is get a clear plastic bin with a lid.  You will want to put pin holes in the very top part of the bin and a few pin holes in the bottom of the container as well –this is for ventilation and drainage of access fluids.  Set the bin and lid aside.  Grab your newspaper – you will want to cut the newspaper in strips less than 1 inch in diameter.  If you have a paper shredder, you could put it to good use for this project.  You then want to get your paper wet; HOWEVER you want to squeeze out the excess water – making the environment too wet will not be favorable for your worms.  Place and fluff your semi-wet newspaper in the bin.

Take your bin to a sunny area – it is time to add your worms!  If you wait until there is a good rain, you will probably find a bunch of worms on your concrete at your house.  You can add them as you get them if you would like.  The sun will make them quickly squirm to hide in the newspaper.  Once the worms have disappeared you will want to get out your soil.  Sprinkle the soil on top – you will want to have enough to dust the top of the container. 

Keep in mind, you will need to take care of your worms – they will need a little bit of TLC.  The still require food (this is easy – your potato peelings, left over fruit cores etc are all great sources of food for your worms), water, oxygen, and a dark worm box.   Make sure you do not feed your worms any sort of dairy products or meat products.  These creatures are great at breaking down and eating waste, but they do have limitations.  Also, don’t overfeed them!!

Finally, you will want to make sure you change out the castings of the box about every 3 months.

This project will not only help our environment (composting in a small fun way), teach your children a few different things, but also will create those money worms you have been looking for.  Have fun!

Since we are in the month of March and getting close to St. Patrick's Day and some good fishing, I thought I would share a great Irish recipe called Fisherman's Pie!

Ingredients:

1 lb of your favorite fish fillets (de-boned) cut into chunks

3 tbsp of butter

2 1/2 tbsp of all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups of warm milk, possibly more as needed

1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese

10 oz's of chopped spinach (thawed and drained if frozen)

1/2 cup chopped minced onion

Salt and Pepper to taste

1 pressed clove of garlic

2 cups of mashed potatoes

1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

 

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375.  Arrange your fish in a single layer in a large baking dish (set this aside).  Melt your butter in a saucepan over medium to low heat.  Whisk in your flour, stirring it until the mixture becomes thick and light golden brown.  Whisk your warm milk over the flour mixture and simmer over medium heat, continue whisking until the sauce is thick and smooth.  Whisk in the sharp cheddar cheese, then add onion, spinach, salt and pepper in with the sauce.  Remove the pan from your heat and add the garlic.  If your sauce seems too thick, this is where you will add in more milk 1 tbsp at a time.  Pour your sauce over the fish and layer your mashed potatoes over the top.  Bake in your oven for 30 minutes - add your last cup of cheddar cheese.  Continue baking for 15 - 20 minutes or until you can easily flake your fish with a fork.

Make 6 servings.

Add some of our Uncle Bucks Corn Bread with this and have a savory meal great for any time of the year!

 

Some of you guys read this blog to keep up on our upcoming events.  If you haven’t had a chance to come in and take advantage of our great sales for the 2012 Spring Fishing Classic, this is the last week, so you will want to come in and check out all the great deals!

 

Bonus bucks continues through Wednesday March 7th.  Customers who use their Bass Pro Shops Visa Card to make purchases will earn gift cards!  Don't have a Bass Pro Shops Visa card?  You can sign up today and not only participate in our Bonus Bucks program; but you can also get an additional 10% off your purchase.  The chart below shows how much money you will need to spend to earn your gift cards.  The gift cards are good through March 18th for a future purchase. 

Purchase Amounts:

$100 - $199 = $10 Bonus Bucks

$200 - $349 = $25 Bonus Bucks

$350 - $599 = $50 Bonus Bucks

$600 and Up = $100 Bonus Bucks

 

Rod Trade In is also still underway through tomorrow (Tuesday, March 6^th).  Bring in a gently used Rod and get a coupon for an amount off a new rod.  The rods will be donated to a local youth fishing organization.  For more information on our Rod Trade-In, please visit our customer service desk. 

Thursday, March 8^th at 7pm in our Conservation Room we will be conducting a Crappie Fishing 101 Seminar.  You will need to pre-register for this seminar and can do so by calling or e-mailing April Vertako at amvertako@basspro.com or by phone at 816-795-4307.

Friday kicks off our Next Generation Weekend.  We have a bunch of fun and exciting things going on.  Starting Friday, March 9 and running through Sunday, March 11, we will have a live fish tank for the kids to fish out of.  The first 50 kids to fish in the tank each day will receive a free Next Generation bag.   They can also pose for a free photo while they are fishing in the tank!  This event will be happening from Noon – 5pm.  We will also have crafts from Noon – 2pm, coloring sheets from Noon – 5pm.  At 2pm we will have some kid friendly seminars at our main stage.  The seminars will be the following each day:

2pm:  Spinning Reel and Rod

3pm:   When to use bobbers, sinkers, live baits, artificial baits and what to use for different fish

4pm:  Fishing baskets or stringers – what is best and how to use them properly.

Starting today there is a whole lot to get excited about at the 2012 Spring Fishing Classic here at the Independence store!

Bonus bucks started today.  Customers who use their Bass Pro Shops Visa Card to make purchases will earn gift cards!  Don't have a Bass Pro Shops Visa card?  You can sign up today and not only participate in our Bonus Bucks program; but you can also get an additional 10% off your purchase.  The chart below shows how much money you will need to spend to earn your gift cards.  The Bonus Bucks promotion goes through Wednesday, March 7th.  The gift cards are good through March 18th for a future purchase. 

Purchase Amounts:

$100 - $199 = $10 Bonus Bucks

$200 - $349 = $25 Bonus Bucks

$350 - $599 = $50 Bonus Bucks

$600 and Up = $100 Bonus Bucks

 

Tomorrow (March 2nd) starts our Rod Trade-In Event.  It will work very similar to our Reel Trade-In.  Bring in a gently used Rod and get a coupon for an amount off a new rod.  The rods will be donated to a local youth fishing organization.  For more information on our Rod Trade-In, please visit our customer service desk.  This trade-in event will go on until March 6th (Tuesday).

Also tomorrow, we start our vendor weekend!  We have 9 different vendors coming in to showcase their products and answer your questions.  Vendors will have their tables set up near our Rock Wall on the lower level.  They will be here Friday, 10am - 8pm; Saturday 10am - 6pm; and Sunday 10am - 5pm. 

 

Finally we cannot forget about it being BASSMASTER weekend here in the store.  We have two very skilled fishermen coming in to present some great seminars on Sunday.  Mike Webb will lead it off with an informative seminar on Using Your Electronics.  Then at 3pm Brent Chapman - fresh off the Bassmaster Classic trail - will be presenting a seminar on Summer through Fall Bass Fishing.  These seminars will be at our main stage on the lower level next to our Rock Wall. 

 

P.S.  There is still some time to get signed up for our Crappie Fishing seminar coming up on Thursday, March 8th at 7pm.  Call April Vertako at 816-795-4307 to reserve your spot and possibly a friends spot too! 

Here is our weekly line up of seminars and other fun promotions going on at your Independence Bass Pro Shops:

All seminars and classes can be preregistered by calling April Vertako at 816-795-4307 or by e-mailing her amvertako@basspro.com

Tuesday, February 28th at 7pm in our Conservation Room, fellow associate John Palmer will be teaching a knots basic class.  This is going to be your basic fishing knots to make sure that special lure or crankbait doesn't try and slip off. 

Wednesday, February 29th at 7pm in our Conservation Room, Local Pro Staffer Roger Umbarger is going to be presenting a seminar on the new Hydrowave.  This will likely be a great seminar to attend - Hydrowave is used by some of our National Pro Staffers.  I've actually had a chance to see this technology work in our very own fish tank.  It was actually pretty neat to see the reaction of the fish.

Don't forget about our Reel Trade In! It's going on right now through the 29th of February! All trade-ins will be inspected to ensure good working order, then donated to a local youth fishing organization. (Doesn't apply to any combo purchase or fly reels. Limit one coupon per new reel.)  You in return will get a coupon for an amount off a new reel (dependent upon the pricing is how much of a discount you will receive).

Bonus Bucks start on March 1^st and will run through March 7^th. If you use your Bass Pro Shops Visa card for a purchase over $100 you will get a gift card for a future purchase and they will expire on March 18^th. 

Purchase Amounts:

100 – 199 = $10 Bonus Bucks

200 – 349 = $25 Bonus Bucks

350 – 599 = $50 Bonus Bucks

600 – Up = $100 Bonus Bucks

Our Rod Trade-In Event starts on March 2nd.  It will work much like our Reel Trade-In Event.  Donate a gently used and working Rod and you will get a coupon for an amount off a new Rod!  All rods will be donated to a local fishing organization. 

 

Make sure and Mark your Calendar - our Vendors will be in this weekend with booths as well as on Sunday March 4th we will welcome Mike Webb and Brent Chapman for some very informative seminars at 2pm and 3pm respectively. 

 

1. What does a person typically need to get started with very basic fly tying?  Any person who is wanting to get started in the art of fly tying need some basic things:  A vise, bobbin holder, thread, very sharp pointed scissors, an assortment of feathers {Marabou, Rooster Saddle, Pheasant Tail}, chenille, jig heads, and appropriate hooks.  The very nice thing is that Bass Pro Shops offers 4 different fly tying kits - Jig, Bass, Saltwater, and Trout - to get you started for $79.99. 

2.   Are there any programs or seminars that Bass Pro Shops in Independence offers to customers who want to learn how to fly tie? We offer fly tying classes year round with the exception of November and December.  Beginner classes have been very popular.  You need to call ahead, there is very limited seating.  These classes are every Monday and Wednesday at 6:30pm.  Folks can reach us at 816-795-4300 extension 4045.

3. What baits would you suggest?  Baits to use are species specific, environment specific to the water being fished, and also time of day/year specific.  Different fish, different water, and different times of the day can drastically change the baits that are being used.  There are really only two baits that catch all species, in all waters and any time of the day or year – those would be jigs and wooly buggers.

4. What are some of the challenges you are facing in today’s current environment?  Fly fishing is still growing at a fast pace.  Overcrowding, lack of stream etiquette - especially in trout parks.  There has never been a better time to get into fly fishing.  The quality of inexpensive outfits has improved.  You can get into the sport for just around $100.  Another big change is as of March 1^st, you will no longer be able to use felt soles on your waders unless you can seal them to adapt to new regulations. 

 

The guys wanted me to add that you can visit www.troutbusters.org .  It is a non-profit organization whose primary function is to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness and Protect Healing Waters.  April 27 – 29^th is the first ‘Buster event of the year.  If you visit the fly shop, you can see Jim K. or Bob B. and they would love to tell you more about this.

Our fly shop associates always love to help new people learn the trade of fly fishing.  Next time you visit the store, stop by and meet a couple of them and ask them some more questions!

We are excited to kick off our Spring Fishing Classic of 2012 here at your Independence Bass Pro Shops!  We have some very exciting and fun things happening this weekend in our store.

We kick off the weekend with our Local Pro Seminars.  Pro Staffers Aaron Olsen and Roger Umbarger will host several seminars over the weekend.  These free seminars will be held in our Conservation Room and there is no need to sign up.

Here is our seminar schedule:

Friday Evening
6pm Advanced Small and Largemouth Bass Tactics
7pm Local Fishing Tips & Techniques
8pm Side Image Sonar: How to Use it Effectively to Catch Fish

Saturday
1pm- Cold Water Jerk Baits
2pm Pre-Spawn and Post-Spawn Bass
3pm Fish Finder Basics
4pm Crankbait Fishing: Tactics and Importance of Matching Road and Reel Gear Ratio to Various Crankbaits
5pm Spinnerbait Basics

Sunday
1pm The Tackle & Tactics of Power Fishing vs. Finesse Fishing
2pm Local Fishing Tips & Techniques
3pm Side Image Sonar: How to Use it effectively to Catch Fish
4pm Fish Finder Basics

Also, don't miss out on our Reel Trade-In starting Friday, February 24th and running through Wednesday, February 29th.  Bring in an old reel for a coupon for an additional amount off a brand new reel (amount off depends on the amount of the reel you are purchasing).  More information about this promotion can be found at our friendly customer service desk.

We hope to see you in for our many different promotions over the next couple of weeks!  Keep checking back on our blog for more fun and exciting things happening!

 

Have you had a chance to check out all the free seminars Bass Pro Shops in Independence has to offer?  All of our classes do require you to pre-register so we know how many will be in attendance.  You can simply pre-register with April Vertako by telephone or by email:  816-795-4307 or amvertako@basspro.com

Fly Tying

Mondays and Wednesdays are our fly tying nights.  Fly tying starts at 6:30pm.  You will need a few basic supplies – you can either buy a fly tying kit that will have most of what you need, or you can call and find out what is suggested to bring with you when you pre-register.  Pre-registration for this class needs to go directly to our fly shop – you can reach them by calling 816-795-4300 and ask to speak with the fly shop.  Space is very limited for these classes, so make sure you sign up as soon as possible.

Take Aim! Archery Basics

Every 2^nd and 3^rd Tuesdays at pm, we will be having a Beginning Archery Class in our indoor Archery Range.  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.  Space is limited, so please make sure to pre-register as soon as possible.

Predator Calling & Hunting
On Wednesday, February 15th at 7pm the Independence Bass Pro Shops Hunting Team will be hosting a workshop on Predator Calling & Hunting. Predator calling and hunting is one of the most exciting things to do in the cold winter months. Let our team show you proper set ups, calls and calling and the right gun and ammo to make this seasons predator hunt the best it can be. The seminar will take place downstairs in our Conservation Room.   Please pre-register.

There is also a Special Predator Hunt coming up - Bass Pro Shops will be hosting the check in site for this hunt.  You can find information about this hunt (the cost and details) here.

Knot Your Average Fishing Seminar - The Basics of Knot Tying in the Fishing World
What is a Palomar Knot? Have you heard of a Clinch knot? Why are these things important to know to go fishing?
Come discover the world of basic fishing knots (the ones above and a few others) at our workshop during our 2012 Spring Fishing Classic on Tuesday, February 28th at 7pm. You will receive hands on training to grab the world of knots by storm! Walk away with a nice handout just in case you may forget that ever important knot on the day that it truly matters! Registration is required to ensure we have enough helpers to guide your way.

Hydrowave 101
What is Hydrowave?

Come and discover the new and most exciting electronic fishing aid technology device on the market!! This seminar will not want to be missed by professional fisherman. The free workshop will take place during our 2012 Fishing Classic on Wednesday, February 29th at 7pm and will be put on by Local Pro Staffer Roger Umbarger in our Conservation Room.

Also, don't forget about our Spring Fishing Classic beginning on Friday, February 24th.  We will be kicking it off with a bunch of informative Fishing seminars.  You can find all the dates and times here.

Some of my most favorite times spent growing up in the country was with some of my more seasoned relatives.  My grandparents and parents often passed down several old wives tales and always seemed to have the Farmer's Almanac on hand at any given moment.  I also remember begging my dad to take me fishing.  Often, he would live by the Farmer’s Almanac; to plant his garden for the year, but to also check and see what was predicted about the weather and when would be the best times to go fishing.  So curiosity set in and I was thinking to myself the other day which dates would be the best fishing dates this year.  These are the dates that the Almanac told me would be my best bet (days between when the moon is new and full):

• January 1–9
• January 23–February 7
• February 21–March 8
• March 22–April 6
• April 21–May 5
• May 20–June 4
• June 19–July 3
• July 19–August 1
• August 17–31
• September 15–29
• October 15–29
• November 13–28
• December 13–28

 

Thinking back, my dad would also make a comment about old wives tales and the darn east wind; saying we wouldn’t catch anything – but I always thought he just didn’t want to take me fishing.  Well, it was funny because he was always right – we would never catch fish in an east wind.  I included some old fishing and hunting wives tales.  Can you tell me if I missed any that you have heard of??

Fishing:

If the cows are laying down the fish won't bite.

Wind from the east fish bite the least. Wind from the west fish bite the best.

I also heard that if the wind was from the north, don't venture forth. If the wind was from the south, it would blow the bait right into a fish's mouth.

Pink sky at night, sailors delight. Pink sky in morning, sailors take warning.

Throw back the first fish you catch then you'll be lucky the whole day fishing.

If you count the number of fish you caught, you will catch no more that day.

  

Hunting:

If the cows were up eating the deer would be up eating. If the cows were bedded the deer would be bedded.

Deer never look up so tree stand hunters have it made

When the smoke comes out of the chimney, then goes down -- go hunting. (barometer is falling)

When the moon is full the deer will feed all night and lay-up during the day.

Need help coming up with some New Years Resolutions?

Here are 10 things every sportsman and woman should add to their list to ensure being active in the outdoors throughout the year of 2012!

1.  Make sure to visit Bass Pro Shops for all your hunting and fishing supplies.
2.  Discover a new hobby.  Have you ever considered fly tying or learning how to fly fish?  We offer fly tying and fly fishing classes; however you do need to register for the free classes and they do book up quickly.
3.  Make a pledge this year to take a child fishing.  Remember the first time you were taken out fishing?  As they get older, they will have the same memories you did.  You might be surprised and get a new buddy to join you for years to come!
4.  Take a Conceal and Carry Class.  Dutch's Conceal and Carry classes are held twice monthly in our Conservation Room for a flat charge of $50.  It is a great class to learn about how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
5.  Vow to hunt and fish safely - check to make sure you have enough hunter orange to go with your camo hunting clothing and make sure you have enough PFD's in your boat so everyone has one that fits properly.
6.  Have your boat checked before making your way to the lake this Spring.  Our Tracker Service Department has a great group of men and women that will make sure you aren't left stranded in the middle of the lake!
7.  This winter, make sure you take some time to oil your reels and get them ready for Spring fishing.  Just because it is cold doesn't mean that fishing cannot be on your mind! 
8.  Give back to nature - take some time to go for a walk or nature hike and pick up trash along the way, or take a set of your favorite binoculars and bird watch.  You might be surprised at what you discover.
9.  Spend time with your family enjoying the great outdoors or if it is rainy, come see us!  We have some great family activities going on throughout the year for kids and adults of all ages.  Make sure you check out our events!
10.  Take some time for yourself enjoying a fun outdoor activity.  Sometimes the best medicine is rest and relaxation doing what you like the most! 

With Santa’s arrival around the corner, Bass Pro Shops in Independence is starting to look a little bit more like the Holiday Season. 

Santa’s Wonderland will kick off on Saturday, November 5^th at 5pm.  There will be Carolers, Refreshments, giveaways and most importantly:  Santa Claus himself, in over 3,500 square feet of holiday magic!  Santa will be available to meet and get a free photo that evening from 6pm – 8pm.  It is VERY IMPORTANT that you stop by our Bass Pass booth to get your pass to see Santa. 

Some of you guys might be curious what a Bass Pass is exactly.  A Bass Pass allows you to set a pre-determined time to see Santa and avoid those 2 hour lines.  It allows you time to shop in the store, or let your child enjoy some of the many different activities we have to offer in Santa’s Wonderland:  Crafts (please check the hours of availability), Games, Write a Letter to Santa, Coloring Pages, Video Games, Remote Control Cars, and so much more!!  The Bass Passes are first come, first serve everyday and you must have a Bass Pass to see Santa and to claim your free 4 x 6 photo. 

The holidays are a magical time.  Come start a new tradition with your family at the Independence Bass Pro Shops!!!  For more information, make sure you LIKE us on our new Fan Facebook Page or call us at the store at 816-795-4300.

The weekend of October 14 – 16 will be a weekend dedicated to our Waterfowl Hunters.  There will be something for everyone at the Independence store.  On Friday evening from 5pm – 8pm, make sure you get signed up for our Duck Calling Contest!  There will be 3 disciplines:  A Youth Calling Contest, An Amateur Meat (Main Street Style), and An Open Meat (Main Street Style).  If you cannot make it to sign up on Friday evening, we will also have an opportunity to sign up on Saturday morning from 9am – 11am next to our main stage.  The Youth Calling Contest will kick off at Noon.  There will be so much fun and some fun prizes  - even if you have never called a duck in your life before - this event will be fun for the whole family to come and watch. 

We are also lucky to have Mr. Shawn Dulohery here on Saturday, October 15^th.  Not only is he an Olympic Shooter, but he is with Drake Waterfowl Elite Team and the hit show Migration Nation.  Please check back on our website for further information on Shawn’s seminar time as it becomes available.

We will also have factory experts here so you can learn the latest and greatest on gear and tactics.  Don’t forget, with the holidays fast approaching – you don’t want family wondering where the cooked duck or goose is!

As the cool weather settles in, a person might think it is time to retire the fishing pole until spring.  Actually, fall can be a great time to take out your Microlite Rod and Reel and hit the lake for some outstanding Crappie Fishing.

Here are some general things to remember while fall Crappie Fishing:

•   You might have to do a bit more scouting for the fish.  With the water temperature starting to cool, they may not be in the same spots they were back in May or even July.  Make sure you are patient.

•  These fish will be at many different depths in the water.  A good depth to drop your bait for fall fishing is 6-12 feet.

•     Minnows seem to be the way to go in the fall.  Fish are trying to find plenty of food before it gets really cold, so the wiggling and movement of a small minnow might be what it takes for you to reel one in.

• If minnows are out of the question, I have also had a great deal of luck on Feather Crappie Jigs such as the Bass Pro Shops® Marabou Tinsel Crappie Jigs.  These little jigs give just enough flash to get you a keeper.  I suggest having a variety of brights, darks, and lights.  Dependent upon the clarity of the water, these fish are going to bite on something different every day.  I can take a bright pink jig, toss it out and get no bites, but I could then take a grey colored jig and toss it in the same spot and catch 2 or 3 fish.

•  Don’t forget to try other great techniques like the Spider-Rig.  While this technique works well in Spring Crappie fishing, it can also work well for Fall as well.

After your successful trip, make sure you stop by and post a photo of what you caught on our brag board inside the store! Also, check out the Missouri Department of Conservation for a good source to Missouri Crappie Fishing and Fishing Reports April through September.   As always, enjoy the great outdoors and happy fishing to everyone!

April Vertako

To get started, you need to find a great place to go camping.  This could be your backyard or a State Park.  There are many different places you can go Camping in Missouri.  One of my favorite places growing up is actually near Hannibal, Missouri.  When I was about 10 years old my parents bought a camper and we would often go to Mark Twain Lake where we would swim, fish, and meet new people.  Any of Missouri’s many lakes are going to have some great camping areas.

Once you figure out where you would like to camp, you need to pick a date.  September is a perfect time of the year when it often isn’t too hot or too cold.  They don’t put National Hunting and Fishing day in September for nothing! 

The next step would be to make a list of the basic things you need before you go on your trip.  Think of the necessities – food, water, shelter.  Then you can start to put together a list of the things you would like to do while camping.  From there, you can brainstorm a list of things that are not going to be necessities, but rather recreational items that will make your trip more enjoyable.  One thing you want to make sure you don’t forget is the bug spray! 

Finally, to prepare for cooking over a fire, you might come in on August 13^th and join us at Bass Pro Shops for our monthly Dutch Oven Cooking Class.  It is a good class for those who are learning to cook with a Dutch Oven, and includes some tasty samples at the end.  Our class is held here at the store every 2^nd Saturday of the month through September at 1pm in our camping department.  Registration for this class can be made by calling 816-795-4300 ext. 4650. 

Don’t let the dog days of summer get you down.  There will be better days soon!  Start planning those today!

April Vertako

Special Events Coordinator