top of page

Search


You Get What You Need
The tent fly, sleeping bags, and assorted soggy fishing-wear flap restlessly on our makeshift clothesline. Thick-cut bacon sizzles in...

Allen Crater
Jun 11, 202414 min read


Gear Review: Orvis Helios 4 Fly Rod
Overview: The new Orvis Helios 4 rods launched with significant acclaim over the past few months, and all these accolades made Allen and...

Jon Osborn
Jun 10, 20245 min read


Gear Review: Poncho Hidalgo Denim Shirt
Overview: Among my friends and family it's no secret that I love Poncho brand shirts. At last count I had eleven of them hanging in my closet – originals, short sleeves, and my favorite, the flannels. I've been known to preach the gospel of Poncho to anyone who will listen. Not long ago Poncho introduced their Denim line which is available in seven colors and promises a comfortable, worn-in feel with a touch of stretch. I ordered the Hidalgo , which is essentially a faded gr

Allen Crater
May 28, 20243 min read


Gear Review: Simms G3 Stockingfoot Guide Waders
Overview: In the scheme of things I fish a good number of days each year (never as many as I would like, but probably more than many),...

Allen Crater
Mar 18, 20245 min read


Gear Review: Exo Mtn Gear K4 5000 Pack System
Overview: I've been a backpacker for nearly 30 years – hiking trails across the country from New Hampshire's Mount Washington to Oregon's...

Allen Crater
Mar 4, 20248 min read


Authors, Artists, and Makers Volume 15: Sarah Landstrom
It's no secret that I love fly fishing, and possess a particular fondness for art - especially paintings. While my personal taste...

Allen Crater
Feb 26, 20249 min read


One-Pot Ruffed Grouse
Wild game is leaner, wilder, and requires more attention in the field and in the kitchen, but the advantages are always worth the effort....

Jon Osborn
Feb 20, 20242 min read


Hunting Trophy Brown Trout In Marginal Waters
“ OH SHIT!" The words erupt without permission after two quick strips and a metallic flash engulfs my streamer. The rod pulses wildly as...

Allen Crater
Feb 19, 20247 min read


Where I'm From
Slip N-22 sits about halfway down the marina boardwalk. Our white, 37-foot, center-console bobs lazily in its moorings – manila lines...

Allen Crater
Feb 6, 20246 min read


My Pal, Joe
The percolator surges on a worn Coleman camp stove, sending savory streams of mahogany up the stem and into the glass top. Sporadic...

Allen Crater
Jan 19, 20244 min read


Breaking Sticks
For me 2020 began the same way it probably did for many others – with a shiny new gym card. While I’ve never been much for New Year’s...

Allen Crater
Jan 5, 20247 min read


The Table That Dad Built
I've recently found myself traveling deep down a rabbit hole of historic Michigan deer camp images since being introduced to a Facebook...

Allen Crater
Dec 22, 20235 min read


Destination: Papin's Resort
Carved into the timbered shoreline of Lake Huron's Scott's Bay, on the Northwestern side of Michigan's popular Drummond Island, sits Papin's

Allen Crater
Dec 4, 20235 min read


Finish What You Start
It's Saturday. Wet snow slaps the wall tent in sloppy clumps. Somewhere, not far off, thunder peels – meteorological makings of the...

Allen Crater
Nov 29, 202316 min read


Holiday Gift Guide - Hunting
Upland, big game, rifle, bow, or shotgun. Deep in the backcountry mountains, pushing through the popples, or tucked up in a stand along a...

Allen Crater
Nov 8, 202311 min read


Holiday Gift Guide - Fly Fishing
If you have a fly angler on your holiday list, you likely know how gear crazy they are. Well, here are 30 of my favorite gift ideas from...

Allen Crater
Nov 8, 20239 min read


Holiday Gift Guide - Cabin
Inside around the fire while snow falls, or watching the sunrise from the porch with a cup of coffee, there's something special about being at a cabin. If your holiday list includes someone who loves to escape to a retreat in the woods or on the water, here are 26 of my favorite gift ideas for those special getaways – any season, indoors or out. 1. Wingo Lowball Glasses ($24) It’s about time you found your favorite drinkware. This boxed set of glasses is perfect for that adu

Allen Crater
Nov 8, 20237 min read


Holiday Gift Guide - Camping
From long backpacking trips, to car camping, or even day hikes, I've assembled 28 of my favorite gift ideas in a wide range of price...

Allen Crater
Nov 8, 20238 min read


Holiday Gift Guide - Books
If you have someone on your holiday list that enjoys reading, particularly about history, early explorations, Native American culture,...

Allen Crater
Nov 8, 20239 min read


Gear Review: Schnee’s Beartooth 0G Boots
Overview: A common error among bird hunters is neglecting their feet. It’s easy to overemphasize the sexier aspects of the sport, like...

Jon Osborn
Nov 8, 20235 min read


