TARBORO — I think Merry FISH-mas is an appropriate greeting for my Tight Lines readers. I mean no religious disrespect by saying that, but our weekly communication and rapport revolves around the wonderful world of fishing, so I hope it’s OK to wish you a Merry FISH-mas.
Need a last minute gift idea for the outdoors-woman on your shopping list? N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission to the rescue.
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has a great gift idea for women on your Christmas shopping list, by way of the “Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” program.
Give a gift card that covers registration for the weekend workshop on April 13-15, 2012, at the Eastern 4-H Conference Center in Columbia, N.C. The workshop includes expert instruction in activities ranging from fishing and target shooting to outdoor cooking and bird watching.
Cost is $225 per person and will cover her choice of four outdoor skill sessions, all program materials and use of equipment, plus meals and lodging. Amenities at the Eastern 4-H Conference Center include climate-controlled living quarters, private showers and dining hall. The 250-acre facility boasts a spectacular view of Albemarle Sound and access to nearby woodlands, meadows, pocosin forests, wetlands and tributaries.
“It’s a beautiful setting — perfect for learning these outdoor skills,” said BB Gillen, the Wildlife Commission’s outdoor skills coordinator. “The boardwalks, nature trails and boat docks provide easy access to the surrounding natural areas.”
Order your gift card online, or by phone by December 23, and you’ll receive a printable certificate via e-mail by December 24.
For more information, contact Gillen at 919-218-3638, or online at bb.gillen@ncwildlife.org.
It doesn’t take a Rhodes Scholar to figure this one out, boys. If the little lady becomes more outdoor oriented, you might have a new fishing buddy raring to go. I can just picture it now: He says to her, “You want to go fishing, AGAIN? We just went yesterday!” Hey dude! It sure beats yard-work, or pushing a buggy at Wal-Mart. Take that lady fishing!
Hotspot of the Week - Speckled Trout continue to thrill local anglers. Hundred-plus days are not uncommon, although most fish are small and under the 14-inch minimum. That’s still tons of fun action, any way you look at it.
Robert Underwood was bass fishing last week with a tried-and-true bait, the Cuda Hulla, when he caught a nice keeper spec. His first ever on that lure. Local experts tell me that the Cuda Hulla can catch just about any fish out there. Sounds like I need to get a few for the tackle box from Tackle Joe’s. Can you say stocking stuffer, boys and girls?
Pastor Gary Bateman is a little busy this time of year, but says he already thinking and getting excited about the upcoming shad season. A man after my own heart. Gary and his brother, Richard, have had to cancel several recent planned outings because of inclement weather. Those Bateman brothers are fish magnets, so watch out fish, when these guys get back on the water.
Josh Abrams is an interesting local young man that does a good job scouting and fishing the Tar River. He knows the river well, and approaches his angling seriously and scientifically. Lately, he reports catching some nice Crappie, vertical jigging in about 10-feet of water. Also, Josh is becoming an accomplished, skilled fly fisherman, and is currently interviewing out west, and in Alaska, for some professional guide job opportunities. Sounds great, Josh! Keep us in the loop.
Rick’s Soapbox - From us, at Tight Lines, to all of you, a very Merry Christmas and a fish-catching, healthy Happy New Year. I am taking Christmas week off, so the next Tight Lines will appear on Friday, January 6, 2012. Doesn’t that sound strange and futuristic, 2012?
Tim Cook Defends Apple's Tax Accounting
AP Photograher: 'It Was a Miracle' They Got Out
Raw: Crews Search for Survivors of Okla. Tornado
Raw: Tearful Reunion After Okla. Tornado
OKC Hospital Describes Treating Tornado Wounded
Obama Pledges Urgent Aid for Tornado Victims
Raw: Massive Funnel Clouds in Oklahoma
