Tackling Bass from a Kayak

            If having the proper tools is the key to success when you are fishing, than fishing from a kayak is no different. The ability to get into tight spaces with incredible stealth is one of the biggest advantages to fishing out of a kayak, but kayak fishing is more than just about advantages, there is the aspect of challenge. You are not as fast as a Nitro with a 220 on the back and you don’t have the same vantage point, but that’s what makes hooking up with giant bass that much more rewarding.

            Stout heavy rods, heavy lines, and weedless baits are the way to go if tackling bass in the shallows is the game you play. Having a lower vantage point out of a kayak, makes it harder to spot deeper weed lines, so top water fishing is one of the most popular techniques out of a kayak. Frog fishing is one of the most exciting ways to catch bass, having the water blow up around your frog is a life changing experience. If you are picking apart a lily pad field or slop, you can slow down with a Bass Pro Shops Kermy Frog. If you want to cover more water you can throw a Humping Toad rigged on an extra wide gap hook. Having the stealth capabilities that go along with targeting bass out of a kayak, slowing down and targeting visual structure is a very productive technique. Throwing a Stick-O or a Pro Series Enticer Flopping Jig around docks, laydowns and undercut banks you can slow down and really focus on high percentage areas.

Preparation is key when you are looking to get into some close combat bass fishing. First and foremost, be ready for a swim. Tipping is not all that common, but in the scenario that you do it should not ruin your day. Wearing quick drying clothing will keep you comfortable through out the day, especially if you go for a swim. Sitting in wet cotton all day will make your experience less enjoyable.

Having the rods and reels, your tackle boxes and boat bags strapped in will prevent you from loosing your gear if you do decide to go for a swim. Using a tackle box like the Plano Hydro-Flo will make sure that whatever gets wet, gets dry and not rusty. To protect items like cell phones, gps devices and cameras you may want to consider waterproof cases like the Plano Waterproof Stowaway that gives you a clear lid so you can still see what your electronics are trying to communicate, shock padding on the inside to prevent damage if it gets banged around, and a waterproof seal.

Preparation goes beyond anticipating a swim. Bad weather, a longer than expected trip or getting lost are all things you should prepare for. Mounting a GPS/Sonar combo on your kayak does double duty. The obvious, the sonar gives you the ability to find possible fishing location. But, more important is the mapping capabilities. Using the tracking feature to show you where you have been will help you get back safer. Efficiency is key when you are traveling in a kayak, and knowing that there is a prime bay just around the corner, or a way to get off the water quickly, in case of an emergency, makes an easy to use GPS/Sonar like the Lowrance® Elite-4 Combo a no brainer.

If you have never tried kayak bass fishing than it is hard to explain what it is that you are missing, well aside from an engine….but don’t dismiss it. Its not here to replace bass boats and fast motors, it is just another way to explore the habitat of our favorite aquatic animals.  Grab your paddles, a few rods, tackle and safety gear and get out on the water. There are new experiences waiting for you, get out and enjoy.

By Daniel Notarianni

If I asked you to describe summer fun what are the first thoughts that come to mind? Did you think of spending the day splashing around in the lake? What about making s’mores and roasting hotdogs over the fire? Trying to finish a popsicle that is quickly melting all over your hand and made your tongue and mouth blue (or orange or pink or green). Perhaps camping in a serene spot within the forest where you can detox from the chaos of daily life?

Maybe summer does not happen at a lake for you. Maybe summer fun to you means working in the garden or having a barbeque with family and friends. It could be going for walks in the evening. Reading a good book on the deck. Having a nap in a hammock.

As much as summer brings great memories and good times, it can also bring some negatives like sunburns and those pesky little mosquitoes and black flies.

Corina already did a fantastic blog on the bug shirts, jackets and pants so I just want to add to that with a blog about mosquito repellents, with a big focus on the thermaCELL.

Mosquitos, black flies and other biting insects are not just annoying as they buzz around but their bites can be very uncomfortable and they can carry diseases like West Nile and Malaria. To protect yourself and your loved ones, we have you covered for mosquito season.

We carry a variety of mosquito repellent related products. If you want DEET infused products we carry Muskol, DEET-EX and Ben’s in spray format and Muskol and McKirdy’s fly dope lotions. These are the more traditional style mosquito repellents which most people are familiar with.

If you prefer to not use DEET we also carry the Insect Defend Patch which is a specially designed patch that uses vitamin B1 to deter mosquitoes and other hungry insects. The discreet Insect Defend Patch can be worn while swimming, showering or covered in sunscreen. It lasts for up to 24 hours which means you can keep having fun without stopping to reapply sprays or lotions.

Two fun options we have are the fly shooter and Executioner. The fly Shooter is a colourful way to splat those bugs while the Executioner zaps them.

Now you may be saying, hey that’s great for single person use, but what about if I want to protect my family or friends while we enjoy the outdoors? Well, one option is the mosquito coils (holders are sold separately) and the ThermaCELL. If you are not familiar with the mosquito coil, it is a specially treated coil that repels pesky bugs with it’s smoke. This does work but only as far as the smoke goes and sometimes a renegade mosquito will sneak through the smoke for a snack. So you may need to put a couple coils out in strategic spots for maximum effectiveness.

This brings me to the ThermaCELL, a very effective, portable product with a wide range of protection. ThermaCELL comes in two models, the basic appliance and lantern. The basic appliance is available in three colour choices; olive, RealTree Camo and Basic Camo (prices vary) so you can take it pretty much anywhere which means it’s perfect for hunting, fishing, camping and hanging out in the backyard. It has a fantastic 4.5 metre (15 foot) radius which allows you to share the protection with those you love. It is like creating an invisible wall that keeps up to 98% of those vampire insects at bay.

One of our most frequently asked questions is “How does it work?”

The ThermaCELL appliances all work the same. They use butane (non refillable) to heat the metal grill where the treated blue pad is contained. The heat causes the repellent in the blue pad to vaporize into the air, creating the invisible wall of protection.

Another frequently asked question is “Is the repellent safe?”

In a nutshell, ThermaCELLs are pretty safe for humans and pets. The blue pads are treated with a repellent called Allethrin which is a reproduction of a repellent that naturally occurs in chrysanthemum flowers. But the appliance is a lot more convenient then carrying a basket of flowers everywhere you go.

And the third most asked question is “Does it really work?”

Yes it does. It is one of the best defences against mosquitoes, black flies, and no-see-ums.

The actual appliances are very simple to use. Just put the butane cartridge in the unit and place a treated blue pad in the slot then follow the steps to turn it on You will see an orange light in the little circle at the top which means it is working. You may also see a little puff of smoke, that is totally normal. When you are done with it turn it off until you need it.

Each appliance comes with one unit which gives you up to 12 hours of mosquito and biting insect protection. We carry refills in single units or economy 4 unit packs. We also carry a couple accessories like the clip on light, holster and extra butane cartridges to give you the most use out of your ThermaCELL.

If you happen to be coming to the Vaughan store this weekend we will be having a seminar on ThermCELL appliances. It will be held at one pm both days at the mosquito Defense focus area in the main aisle near the grill deck. If you aren’t able to come to the senimar then stop by the camping area and speak to one of the camping team associates for more information.

Now that I have given you the run down on mosquito defence, I hope that helps you make the best decision for you needs. After all, summer should be filled with watermelon, icy drinks, tubing, gazing at the stars, roasting hotdogs over a fire, laughter, fun and creating the best memories that can be squished in.

Have a Wonderful and Safe Summer J

Melanie

Team Lead

Camping Department

Bass Pro Shops

Vaughan ON

Easy Chicken Stock- By Omi

3 ½ LB Chicken cut up

2-3 medium carrots- cut lengthwise

1 Medium Onion- Cut in half, skin on

1-2 Celery Ribs

1 Leek- Optional, cut, washed- cut lengthwise

1 Bay Leaf

1 Tsp Peppercorns

3 Quarts Water

• Combine above ingredients into a large stockpot.
• Bring to a boil- lower heat to simmer for 3 ½ hours
• Skim off foam that rises
• Strain soup through a fine sieve, discard the vegetables
• Skin chicken- save and use for chicken salad or any other recipes
• Omi  would freeze small containers about 1 cup portions for later use
• Chill soup first then put in freezer for portions

Easy Vegetable Stock- By Omi

2 Large onions- chopped

2 large leeks- washed and chopped

3 celery ribs- chopped

2 large carrots- chopped

1 ¾ lbs celery root- peeled and diced

½ cup shallots- chopped

3 ½ quarts water

1 cup fresh parsley- chopped

2 Bay leaves

2 TBSP black peppercorns

• In large stockpot bring vegetables and water to a simmer, skin foam from surface
• Add parsley, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Simmer gently about 3 hours, until soup is reduced to 6 cups, add more water if needed.
• Strain stock through a fine sieve
• Cool overnight then freeze into portions

CLASSIFIED INFORMATION: BUGS ON A MISSION

Timmy the Tick: Timmy the Tick reporting to you live from a secret headquarters at the insect jamboree. Her under deep covers under the night sky, we will get all of the pertinent information regarding products destined to destroy our insect colonies. During my recon missions I have uncovered information about the insect protective gear that humans are planning on using against us.

The first product, to be weary of are Rynoskins Insect Protection shirts, pants, hoods, gloves and socks. This product is a nylon/spandex fabric that provides 99.9% chemical free protection against biting insects. This product is form fitting to body, machine washable, comes in sizes S-2XL in shirt and pants, while the hood, gloves and socks are one size fits most. It comes in a variety of colours and patterns, like Mossy Oak Break Up, Real Tree Xtra Green, Black, Green and Tan to adapt to your environment.

The Rynoskins can be used as pajamas in hot climate weather environments where there are a large quantity of bug infestation. This is a serious threat to us all as this insect protective clothing provides resistance to black flies, chiggers, sand fleas, gnats and ticks. I found this item and information while buzzing around in the store from the associates in the camo department at Bass Pro Shops.

Check out this link:

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigation?storeId=10151&catalogId=10051&langId=-1&searchTerm=rynoskins

I am now handing the microphone over to Bart the Blackfly who is currently live on location in the camo department at Bass Pro Shops to report his findings on the Quagga mosquito clothing line.

Bart the Blackfly: Thanks Timmy. Well folks, the new Quagga mosquito clothing line is scent and chemical free protection which goes over your clothes. It is a lightweight mesh construction, machine washable and quick dries. BE AWARE!!! This clothing can be worn for hunting, fishing, hiking, camping and many outdoor activities. It is easily packable and doesn’t take up a lot of room in the human’s backpacks. In other words, you know never know they can be well prepared with this line of defense hidden in their backpacks. It comes in Olive Green and it comes in a long sleeve t-shirt, full net shirt, pant and 2 types of head nets; one with a neck cover and one without a neck cover.

Check this out:

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigation?storeId=10151&catalogId=10051&langId=-1&searchTerm=Quagga+Mosquito

This is Bart the Blackfly signing off, back to you Timmy.

Timmy the Tick: Thanks a lot for that useful information Bart! Next up, Sandy the Sand Flea will be reporting to you regarding the Bug Bushlite jacket and pants.

Sandy the Sand Flea: Reporting for duty! I am currently in the camping department at Bass Pro Shops and I have found some VERY interesting information. The Bug Bushlite jacket and pants are a black nylon lightweight mesh material, which comes in a carrying bag the size of your wallet. The jacket has an extra large hood and it has draw cord wrists for added protection against bugs. The pants have a drawstring waist and cuffs. It is also black nylon lightweight mesh material. This product is light weight packable, easy to carry, compact and easy to throw over your clothes.

There something her that’s making me really nauseous… Back to you Timmy!

Timmy the Tick: Can we get some medics on the site!? Now here’s Cathy the Chigger reporting just outside of Bass Pro Shops… Luckily you got out of the camping department just in time! Are you ok?

Cathy the Chigger: Yes, thank you Timmy. The medics are now with Sandy. They have opened a package of Thermacells inside the department causing Sandy to feel a little light headed… I flew towards the doors as soon as I could and out the sliding doors I went when a customer left. While I was there… I heard the associates talking about this Thermacell product. It is a handheld mosquito repellent, there are 3 different colours/patterns available; Olive, Realtree AP and Camo. It also comes in a form of a functional lantern, which looks esthetically pleasing for you outdoor nirvana. It has a 15 foot of radius protection, it uses butane cartridges and a mosquito pad. (Pads need to be replaced when the pad turns white or when our friends feast on you!) Also available is a holster and swivel light attachment for your use. It is a scent free product, which explains why Sandy suddenly got sick! This product is used for many outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, sporting events or just relaxing in your backyard.

That’s it for me Timmy, I got to get out of here!!! Back to you.

Timmy the Tick: Just as an aside the camping department offers musk oil, deet spray or patches, coils, Ben’s insect repellent, the fly shooter (be careful when around kids when using this) and the executioner (adult use only). Also, after we have been successful at feasting on your flesh, they have kids’ and original after bite pens for some relief available in the department.

Now that we have uncovered the human’s secret weapons against us, we can be more diligent in selecting our targets. Be on the look out, for any of the products mentioned above and be careful while you’re out there!

This is Timmy the Tick signing off, enjoy the rest of the Bug Jamboree!

SUMMER BBQ ESSENTIALS

– How to make your backyard BBQ a trendy, sizzling success…

My husband and I love to have company over, we love hosting parties and get-togethers, especially in the summer time. For my husband, this only means… BBQ season! I certainly encourage and support “the King of the Grill” mentality that my husband gets himself into. He just loves the grill and the smoker. This is great for me because I get awesome food, less cooking and more time for me to kick my feet up in the backyard after a long day. But our old fashioned, out dated and aged grill’s days are numbered. So we’ve decided to look at our options and start looking at replacements. I figured this would be a great time for me to learn a thing or two about what the essentials are for barbecuing.

I walked over to the camping department and asked my colleague, Melanie for some product knowledge and advice. She helped me narrow it down to two of the newest and trendiest grills that we currently carry in our store. The Smoke Canyon Trio Grill and the Brinkmann Smoke’N Grill. Melanie mentioned that the latest and greatest feature and benefit on the new grills is that they are multi purpose, which is great so that we are able to enjoy more time outside!

The Brinkmann Smoke’N Grill at $629.99 CAD has nearly 700 square inches of cooking surface; 554 square inches of primary cooking surface and 140 square inches of secondary cooking surface, integrated rotisserie and smoker, easy-to-use electronic ignition, five 10,000 BTU stainless steel burners, a 12,000 BTU side burner, a 10,000 BTU back burner, a 6,000 BTU smoker burner and get this, primarily fueled by propane it can be easily adapted to natural gas with a conversion kit. This grill is not your ordinary backyard grill; it’s a backyard kitchen in itself. This grill can do it all! It is ideal for hosting parties and get-togethers, whether it’s date night that’s turned into steak night or enjoying the sun in the backyard while smoking a brisket with a few buddies. It’s got heavy-duty porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates and wire warming rack, a griddle topper, bottle opener, a towel/tool bar and smooth rolling casters for easy moving! The box is pretty big so you need to keep that in mind for pick up.

The Smoke Canyon Trio Grill at $459.99 CAD has a barrel shaped charcoal grill, a barrel shaped propane grill and a side fryer. It’s got over 1,700 square inches of cooking space, a 12,000 BTU side burner and 30,000 stainless steel BTU burners.

The sider fryer at 12,000 BTU, with a 6.5 quart aluminum pot with a strainer basket and soft touch handle is perfect for deep frying or boiling a wide variety of foods.

The barrel shaped charcoal grill has a 20 burger capacity, 360 square inches of cooking space, cast iron grates, fuel access door, a gear shifter style adjustable charcoal tray/grate lifter and front loading for charcoal or wood. It also has a fully removable ash pan.

The barrel shaped gas/propane grill also has a 20 burger capacity, 360 square inches of cooking space and porcelain coated cast iron cooking grates.

There are oversized analog temperature gauges on gas and charcoal units to monitor the temperatures with lids closed. In addition to this feature these is also a convenient side storage to help organize your event.

This grill is also awesome for having a neighbourhood cook out, like the Brinkmann Smoke’N Grill it is a multipurpose grill. It is definitely not an ordinary grill. What buddies of yours wouldn’t be happy with some deep fried grub, burgers and steaks and some grill smoked meat? This item is also pretty big so make sure you keep that in mind for pick up as well.

Now my husband and I have some thinking to do… So I get to go home with the information, sit down with him and let him pick which one he would be comfortable with. After all, grilling and smoking is his thing.

While I was in the camping department I also asked Melanie for some help on some essential accessories that a person who barbecues or is starting to barbecue should have… She listed a bunch of things like: cleaning brushes, sets and individual tools, grill covers to take care of your investment, assorted grill baskets, kabob sets (including the flexible kabob skewer set), jalapeno rack, rib rack, thermometers, smoker boxes, wok, the sittin’ chicken, grids for times when you need more solid coverage, a variety of sauces, lots of rubs and an assortment of injectable marinades (some brands we carry are Cajun Injector, Butterball and Tony Chachere’s).

Melanie says:

“We carry a great selection of grills from charcoal to propane in a range of sizes to suit different needs from camping to tailgating to big parties. The brands we carry are Horizon, Weber, Char Griller, Char Broil, Brinkman, Browning, Coleman, Lodge and Smoke Canyon.

One of the best things about summer is eating outside, and nothing says summer eating like a good grill. Whether it is traditional (hamburgers, hotdogs, sausages, steak and chicken drumsticks) or more fancy (salmon steaks, kabobs, smoked pork for a nice pulled pork sandwich), grilling is a great way to make a delicious lunch or dinner while avoiding the sweltering hot kitchen.

Whether you want to use a charcoal or propane grill, we have you covered with different models to accommodate a variety of budgets and grilling needs.”

I hope that this has given you, our blog readers as much information as it’s given me. If you have any questions or concerns, please comment, call or email us, better yet come visit our store and one of our camping associates will be glad to help you.

I would like to thank Melanie in camping for all the help! You were awesome!!!

Till next time,

Sweet Pea.

With spring right around the corner and the fishing classic underway lots of fishermen/women are stocking up on all the great deals on the basics for fishing. One thing that is a must for some fishing styles is waders.

Before working at Bass Pro Shops I honestly did not know these existed so here is a complete beginners guide on waders.

Why the need for waders:

People not only use waders for fishing but also for putting in/taking out docks,  hunting, photography, and environmental research. For every activity and experience level there is a perfect wader out there for you. Since the Fishing Classic Sale is the perfect time to get your feet wet (not literally haha) with your new hobby.

First off there are 2 types of waders each with their pros and cons:

Stocking foot – These waders have neoprene socks attached to the waders so you can customize the boot you choose to wear (either felt or rubber). One of the main questions I get about these waders is will your foot get wet since they have no boot attached. The answer is no! Neoprene is  completely waterproof. To keep yourself completely protected from rocks and tears it is good practice to wear some sort of shoe while wearing stocking foot waders. These waders are used more in fishing.

A great starter summer wader is: http://www.basspro.com/White-River-Fly-Shop-Classic-ChestHigh-StockingFoot-Breathable-Waders-for-Men/product/11100605012317/

Boot foot – These waders have their own rubber boots attached to the wader completely allowing for a one-stop shop when it comes to waders. A majority of these waders are used for more general purposes. Many of the boots have added insulation to keep feet warm even in the coldest of water.

Great for almost everything:

http://www.basspro.com/RedHead-BoneDry-Hobbs-Creek-Chest-Waders-for-Men-Lug-Sole/product/10455/

Great for hunting:

http://www.basspro.com/RedHead-Classic-Series-II-Neoprene-BootFoot-Waders-for-Men-Ladies-or-Youth-Camo/product/103648/

The debate between boot or stocking foot is completely up to you but if you still can’t decide stop by the footwear department and one of our associates will give you a complete wader 101 and help find the wader perfect for you and your activity.

FOOTWEAR 101: LAURA

Hello Fly Fishermen/Women,

As we begin a new and exciting year, a new fly fishing season is approaching! Now is the time to clean/stretch/grease lines, clean and lightly oil the reels and check the rods for damage. After this operation, for all those who are fly tiers, this is the time to stock up the fly boxes.

Here is list of my faves for Trout and Steelhead…

The most used fly in all of North America and around the world is the venerable wooly bugger. Tied in all sizes and dozens of colors, this fly will catch anything anywhere!! For Steelies, Glow Bugs and Sucker Spawn are a must in the fly box; there are literally tons of Steelhead patterns out there!!!
A lot of Spey flies are now used just by replacing the regular hackle on a pattern with a Schlappen /Heron imitation hackle, and the flies become "Spey Flies". Here are a few pattern that I tie: Black Bear Green/Orange/red Butt, Freight Train, Polar Shrimp, Rainbow Smelt, Magog Smelt.

Any of the nymphs listed below will do a great job on Steelies...

Nymphs are an important arsenal in the fly box. The early black or brown stonefly, the green rock caddis worm/caddis larva , pheasant tails nymphs tied with different thorax colors: chartreuse, orange , and peacock can be deadly. The hare's ears nymph, the Zug Bug and the Prince nymph are my "go to" flies. Tied in different sizes, these flies will most of the time produce fish. I also like the March brown nymph and when tied with Maxima Chameleon mono as ribbing it can represent small brown stoneflies. For soft hackle, I use the peacock and black, peacock and grizzly, partridge and olive, march brown, blue winged olive, just to name a few.

For wets I like to use: the Light and Dark Cahill , Hornberg , Professor, Quill Gordon, Grizzly King, Royal Coachman. I also tie a version of the adams in wet fly by changing the wing hackle tips to barred teal flank feather. In addition, I add a gold rib, the speckle trout seem to like it!!!!!!

Now for the dry flies: so many choices!!
The number #1 fly everyone should carry is the Elk Hair Caddis in: olive, tan, beige, black and med brown with and/or without hackle if you want the fly to ride low on the surface film. Blue winged olives, Adams, Mosquito, Light Cahill, Grey Fox , March Brown, Green Drake just to name a few.

Marabou/regular Muddler Minnows in white, olive, black and natural color work anywhere and anytime!!!
Size #6 to #14 for Trout
Size #2 to #12 for Bass and Panfish

I fish mostly minnow imitation streamers; not many attractors: Black nose dace, Emerald shiner, Magog smelt, Golden shiner, Nine three, rainbow smelt and the Balou special.

I wish you a Great 2013 season with good times and great memories!

Tight lines my friends!!!


Gerry

With the new year and a new season approaching for the fly fishermen/women, it is time to check the equipment! Everything from clean lines, oiled reels, and checking rods for cracked or loose guides. If you are a fly tier, this is the time to reload your boxes with your favorite patterns.

Here are a few of my favorite patterns that I use:

For steelies...

Early black or brown stonefly nymphs, pheasant tail nymph, green rock worm also called green caddis larva, peacock and black soft hackle, and glo bugs in variety of colours and sizes. Sucker spawn is really good also and is easy to tie if you are a newbie to flytying.

For trout flies...

I use the same nymphs and a few others. In dry flies, my go to flies are: the elk hair caddis, blue winged olive, the indispensable Adams the mosquito, and march brown. This fly when tying the nymph pattern will imitate really well a small brown stonefly nymphd; just use maxima chameleon mono for the the ribbing.

Hope the season brings great memories to all!

Tight lines!

Gerry

Water Purifiers

To find out the theme of today’s blog, you must answer these riddles five…ready, set, ponder!

What runs all day but never gets tired?

What kind of bank doesn’t need money?

What lives in the winter, dies in the summer and grows with it’s root upward?

What holds water but is full of holes?

A cloud was my mother, the wind is my father, my son is the cool stream, and my daughter is the fruit of the land. A rainbow is my bed, the earth my final resting place, and I'm the torment of man.

If you have been stumped or just aren’t into riddles, I’ve got the answers below.

A tap

A river bank

An icicle

A sponge

Rain

If you guessed today’s theme was water, you are right! We need water to survive, like all living things, whether animal, fish or plant.

According to the Ministry of the Environment Ontario “

Water covers more than two-thirds of the earth’s surface and yet only a small percentage is freshwater for drinking. In fact, if the world’s entire water supply was 100 litres, then only one teaspoon of it is fresh drinking water.”

Water is one of our most abundance and yet precious resources in the world. It’s everywhere but it isn’t always safe to drink. Even in Canada where we have some of the most clear, beautiful lakes and rivers in the world there can be viruses and bacteria in them that will make us sick. Now before you panic, you need to remember that most of our water is safe to drink, but you always want to have some caution with any unfamiliar water sources, for your health and the health of your loved ones. E.Coli, Campylobacter,Giardia Lamblia (Beaver Fever) and Cryptosporidium have been documented in some Ontario waters.

You may be familiar with the water quality of the lake your cottage is on, or the river where you do fly fishing, but what about a lake you are visiting for the first time? What about in an emergency, natural disaster relief or a trip overseas to places where the water may harbour bacteria and viruses that will make you very sick. The easiest way to overcome these concerns is to use a water filtration system.

There are different types of water filtration systems available at our Bass Pro Shops (Vaughan, Ontario location) to accommodate different budgets and needs. I will start off with the tablets then go into the systems.

Potable Aqua Drinking Water Germicidal Tablets and Potable Aqua Drinking Water Germicidal Tablets with PH Plus

For short term or emergency use, these tablets are portable and easy to use. It wipes out bacteria and protozoa and viruses to purify the water. One small bottle contains enough tablets to purify 24 to 52.8 litres (25 to 50 quarts) of water. Since it contains iodine, it will have a slight taste to it. That is where the PH Plus comes in. The PH balancer will remove the iodine taste and colour.

Katadyn Brand

My Bottle

This personal bottle holds 680 grams (24 oz) of water. Each cartridge can filter up to 98.4 litres (26 gallons) of water. The cartridge removes viruses and bacteria while the cyst filter removes Giardia and cryptosporidium. The carbon filter improves taste, eliminates odours and reduces chemicals. The cartridge and filters are removable so you can use it just like a regular water bottle for daily use.

Vario Microfilter

The pump style Vario processes almost 2 litres (2 quarts) per minute which is great when you are thirsty. It removes waterborne bacteria and cysts while reducing chemicals, odour and toxins. If the water is dirty you can use the ceramic pre-filter for longer filter life or the ''faster flow'' mode to utilize the pleated glass-fibre filter under normal conditions.

The ceramic pre-filter can process 401.2 litres (106 gallons) while the glass-fibre can process 2006.2 (530 gallons) of water.

You can either attach the Vario to some water bottles (it has a threaded mouth) or use the hose if you use hydration bladders.

MSR Brand

Sweet Water Purifier System

The iodine free pump style Sweet Water processes 1.25 litres a minute. It inactivates 99.9% of waterborne viruses, bacteria and common protozoa based on a filter and chlorine based solution system. It has threads that can be attached to most water bottles as well as having a hose for hydration bladders.

MiniWorks EX Purifier System

This pump system removes bacteria and protozoa. It processes 1 litre of water a minute. This system can inactivate waterborne bacteria and common protozoa. The carbon filter can unpleasant taste and odour. Just like the Sweet Water system, it has threads that can attach the unit to most water bottles and a hose for hydration bladders.

MIOX Purifier System

This little system is perfect for a backpack pocket or emergency kit. It deactivates viruses, bacteria and protozoan cysts Giardia and Cryptosporidium in clean or dirty water without pumping. It provides a lifetime of water purifying with the replacement of salt and batteries after 200 litres of treatment (a light alerts you to the need of salt and/or batteries). You can treat .5, 1, 2 or 4 litres at a time.

Life Straw

I saved this one for last for a reason. The life straw is the reason for today’s topic, a request by our General Manager Shawn Hewitt. We have not carried the Life Straw for very long but it is a very popular product due to it’s price, size and weight.

This lightweight straw has a 5 year shelf life and is easy to use, just put it in a water source and drink. It is supplied to government and aid groups around the world. A portion of domestic sales supports donations overseas.

It removes 99.999% of bacteria and 99% of common protozoa.

For more information come check out our water purifiers and speak to one of our knowledgeable associates in the camping department.

Have a great day!

Melanie

Camping Department

Bass Pro Shops

Vaughan, ON

http://potableaqua.com/

http://www.katadyn.com

http://cascadedesigns.com/msr/water-treatment-and-hydration/category

http://www.vestergaard-frandsen.com/lifestraw

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigation?storeId=10151&catalogId=10051&langId=-1&searchTerm=water+purifier

http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/environment/en/residents/water/index.htm

Have sweaty and stinky feet ..?

Doesn't matter how big or small you are ..

There's no discrimination in that domain ..

Sweaty feet are a bummer and can shorten your event due to cold, dampness and untimely discomfort ..

I am the Sock Kween @ Bass Pro in Vaughan ..

(I kid you not ..)

Our signature Red Head Lifetime Socks are worth the warmth they provide ..

Wicks sweaty moisture away from your skin and keeps you warm and dry ..

I have re newed my faith in Wool, Merino Wool to be exact ..

We have two different thicknesses to appease the fussy sweater ..

I myself wear the thinner version all day, indoors @ work in my steel toe boots ..

The Lifetime sock cushions my old and tired heel, keeping me dry, ALL DAY ..

Where have I been .. Cotton only aggravated my condition .. Little did I know ..

And on cold Canadian days, the thicker version of the Lifetime Sock toasts my toes ..

So I can shovel all the snow our unforgiving winter dares to spew at me ..

Our Bass Pro signature Lifetime sock is 88% Wool, our highest wool content sock ..

@ $14.99 and $13.99, these Merino wool socks will change your paradigm on Wool ..

Soft and highly functional, I have converted the most sceptical of Canadian cotton enthusiasts ..

For more information see the link below...

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigation?storeId=10151&catalogId=10051&langId=-1&searchTerm=lifetime+socks

Be that as it may ..

Don't take my wordy words for it ..

Try a pair ..

And then you too, will wonder where the heck you've been ..

Probably suffering quietly like the Canadian idioms, we are ..

No need to suffer any longer ..

Be warm and move forward with certainty ..

Out, damned Sweat! Out, I say!

Until our next encounter may all your toes be yours ..

The Sock Kween ..

(Not too fancy, Nancy ..)

Szechuan Shrimp

Serves 4

• 1lb Shrimp ( Peeled and Deveined)
• 1 Tbsp Ketchup
• 1 Tbsp Chili Sauce
• 1 Tbsp Sherry Wine
• 1 Tbsp Sugar
• ½ Tsp Salt
• ¼ Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 1 Tbsp Cornstarch
• 2 Tsp Canola Oil
• 4 Green Onions- Chopped on a diagonal
• 2 Tbsp minced ginger root
• 2 Tsp minced garlic

(Serve over plain rice)

• In a small bowl mix ketchup, chili sauce, sherry wine, soy sauce, sugar, salt, red pepper flakes
• Pour oil into wok or frying pan before heating and wipe around the pan.
• Heat oil, add green onions, ginger root, garlic, stir fry a few seconds, the add shrimp.
• Stir constantly- for about 2 minutes until shrimp turns pink. Add small amounts of water if food starts to stick to pan.
• Stir sauce in small bowl, add to wok, stir constantly until thickened.
• Once thickened serve with rice and enjoy!

Citrus Rub from Carol

Makes one cup

• ¼ cup dried lemon zest
• ¼ cup dried lime zest
• ¼ cup dried orange zest
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp seasoned pepper
• Combine all ingredients in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid
• Store in dark cupboard away from heat. Will keep up for 3 months
• Use on fish, poultry, roasted or grilled vegetables.

Seasoning Salt

• 5 Tbsp Salt
• 2 Tsp Celery Salt
• 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Tsp Onion Powder
• 1Tsp Dried, crushed sage leaves
• 1 Tsp Pepper
• ½ tsp Dried crushed oregano leaves
• Combine together- seal in an airtight jar.

Maple Pecan Pie

•  
• 1- 9inch unbaked pie shell
• 3 eggs- beaten
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• ½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp melted butter or margarine
• 1tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 ¼ cup pecan Halves or pieces

• Place rack in lowest position in oven, preheat oven to 350

• In a large bowl combine all ingredients (except pie shell). Pout ingredients into pie shell.

• Bake pie shell 35-40 minutes or until golden cool. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

• Refrigerate leftovers

Morning’s Fresh Apple Muffins

12 Muffins

• 2 Tbsp soft margarine
• 2 Tbsp sugar replacement
• 1 Egg beaten
• 1 ¼ cup flour
• ¼ Tsb salt
• 2 Tsp baking powder
• 6 Tbsp skim milk
• 1 Small Apple, (peeled, cored chopped)

• Cream margarine and sugar replacement, add egg; stir in remaining ingredients

• Spoon into greased muffin tins, fill about 2/3 full.

• Bake at 400 for about 25 minutes until done.

Victorian Iced Tea

10- 1 cup servings

• 4 individual tea bags
• 4 cups boiling water
• 1 can frozen cranberry-raspberry juice concentrate- thawed
• 4 cups cold water
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint- garnish *Optional*
• Place tea bags in teapot, add boiling water. Cover and steep for 5 minutes. Remove and discard tea bags.
• Refrigerate tea in a covered container
• Just before serving, combine cranberry-raspberry concentrate in cold water in a 2 ½ quart pitcher, stir in a tea.
• Serve in glasses with ice cubes and garnish with mint. Enjoy!

Moose Munch

1 pkg (12oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 Tsp Crisco vegetable shortening

1 box crunch and much plain old caramel corn

• Line cookie sheet with parchment paper-set aside
• In microwave bowl add chocolate chips and Crisco, microwave until chips look shinny. Remove and stir until melted
• Quickly stir in popcorn. Spread onto prepared cookie sheet.
• Cool completely and break into pieces.

Spinach Cucumber Salad

8oz spinach torn into bite size pieces

2 medium cucumbers thinly sliced

½ cup vegetable oil

2 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp vinegar

2 tsp vinegar

2 tsp soy sauce

½ tsp dry mustard

¼ tsp garlic powder

• Put spinach and cucumbers in a tightly closed plastic bag- refrigerate up to 24 hours. Mix remaining ingredients in a tightly covered jar and refrigerate.
• Before serving shake the dressing and toss with spinach and cucumbers

Cranberry Fudge

4 cups granulated sugar

¼ cup unsalted butter

2/3 cup milk

1 tbsp golden corn syrup

1 can (7oz) full cream condensed milk

¾ cup fresh cranberries

• Mix sugar butter milk and corn syrup in heavy saucepan and slowly bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Add condensed milk and return to a boil for 20 minutes, while continuing to stir, until a small amount dropped into very cold water sets hard (about 250 degrees)
• Removed from heat and stir in cranberries. Spread into well greased filled roll pan and cut into squares before fudge hardens. When completely cooled store in an airtight container.