Ready for Pocket Ranger Trophy Case™? Brett Melillo is!

The wait for Pocket Ranger Trophy Case™ is almost over! In anticipation of our soon-to-be-released photo/video-sharing social networking app, developed exclusively for anglers, hunters, wildlife viewers and avid outdoor enthusiasts, ParksByNature® Network Founder and Program & Development Director, Brett Melillo, is getting a head start on the action.

Brett has already started working toward collecting his first trophies by sinking lines and hooking fish galore while exploring down in Tulum, Mexico.

Welcome to paradise at Casa de las Olas!

Staying at his friend Jimmy’s self-sustaining house, Casa de las Olas (House of Waves)*, nestled on a secluded beach, Brett and his wife Myra joined a deep-sea fishing excursion 50 minutes off the coast of the Riviera Maya. Their goal? Catch their lunch and dinner for their remaining days in Tulum.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served! Except for the sailfish, of course. That’s being mounted!

Day number one was quite a success!

Brett proudly showing off his fresh-caught barracuda and dorado (mahi-mahi).

They reeled in three dorado (mahi-mahi), one barracuda, and finished their streak with a Trophy Case-worthy 86” sailfish.

Check out that sailfish! It's certainly worthy of a trophy.

Check out that sailfish! It certainly deserves a trophy.

When Pocket Ranger Trophy Case™ debuts next month, you’ll be able to view these posts – and more – on Brett’s public profile! To mark this momentous release, Brett will embark from New York City on June 11 with veteran sport fisherman Brad Alcini for a journey down the East Coast. Along the way, he will visit local parks to take in the views, sink a line or two in the freshwater lakes to see if he can hook any small- or largemouth bass, while keeping his eyes peeled for interesting wildlife sightings in his surroundings and overhead. He will wrap up his tour on June 15 aboard the 57’ Sport Fisher, Dream Girl, over the deep waters of North Carolina’s Outer Banks near the Gulf Stream, targeting yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi on a fishing expedition headed by renowned tournament-winner Captain Jason Snead. There’s even a shot of catching a big blue marlin!

What else will Brett be up to on his travels? You’ll be able to follow him as he goes along! Throughout this expedition, he will use the Pocket Ranger Trophy Case™ app to post photos with descriptions of his achievements. In addition to setting his profile to public, Brett will switch on the app’s GPS Geo-tag feature so that you will be able to view and track his progress by viewing his posts on a map. Follow his feed and stay in the loop on his adventures. Let him know what you think by leaving comments. He’ll be sure to find time to reply – in between catching fish and spotting birds, of course!

Can’t wait to follow Brett’s fishing and wildlife tour and get started earning trophies yourself? We’ll of course keep you posted on this exciting release as the date approaches. Stay tuned!

*If you’re planning an eco-friendly trip to Tulum, Casa de las Olas is the place to stay.

Casa de las Olas
[Image: www.casadelasolas.com]

Learn more about their commitment to sustainable tourism at their website.

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Close Range Archery Practice

Contributed by Al Quackenbush, The SoCal Bowhunter

Close range archery practice is something isn’t mentioned much these days. Most times bowhunters will say they have sighted in for 20-80 yards and are very happy with that. What about when that animal surprises you and comes in at 10 yards or maybe even 5 yards? Have you practiced shooting at those ranges? Here are a few tips to be sure you can hit your target at all ranges.

When I was first starting out bowhunting, I had the fortune to shoot at a nice six-point whitetail with a recurve. I was young and had not practiced at close range. At less than five yards I shot right over his back. I aimed to what I thought was a true shot and whiffed. I was heartbroken and deflated. After that, practicing at close range was a must. I stuck with it for many years and then when I moved to California I stopped for a while.

As I began to shoot at longer distances, I slowly forgot about shooting in close. One day at the range, I set up a 3D deer target and got to thinking. What if this deer surprised me closer than 10 yards? Would I be ready? I knew I wouldn’t be, so I tried a few things.

First, I set up a bag target and moved just a few feet away from it. This was to get my body in tune and to erase any target panic I might have. Here’s what you should do – as you are directly in front of the target, draw your bow, close your eyes and when ready squeeze the trigger on your release. This tells you how it should feel and to make sure you don’t punch the trigger. This might take a couple shots to get the cobwebs out and to relax.

Now that you have the target set, you use either the lowest setting for your single-pin sight (like 5 yards) or the setting for 10 yards on your multi-pin sight. Move back to 5 yards and aim for a spot on the bag target. Release an arrow and see how low (or high) you are. Here is where the adjustment comes in. For every archer this will be different, so you will have to take great care in your next steps. You can lower your bow and get the sight pin where you think you need to be and fire off another arrow. Complete this step until you hit the spot you are aiming for.

Once you have the 5 yard sighting completed try some things. Crouch down, sit down, lean in front of a mock ‘tree’ or just make something up for how you think an animal will approach. Practice like this from 5 yards from time to time. This will ensure that when you are faced with a close yardage shot you can make it happen without blinking an eye. Best of luck and shoot straight!

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Nature’s Nuptials: Saying ‘I Do’ The State Park Way

If you’re a nature lover and are intrigued by the great outdoors, how about considering an affordable “destination” wedding, but without the hefty travel expenses? You’ve found the perfect mate. Now consider a state park for the perfect wedding. There are hundreds of parks around the country that offer facilities and packages for this memorable and special occasion. If you’ve never considered a state park for a wedding, here are a few reasons to say “I do” the state park way:

Cost

Image: www.rusticweddingchic.com

When looking at wedding venues, you may not even realize that many state parks have facilities available. What’s great about having a wedding, the state park way, is that much of the costs compared to a traditional wedding can be drastically reduced. Depending on the amount of guests and the location of the wedding, costs can quickly spike with a traditional wedding. A state park wedding venue can be just as beautiful, if not more beautiful than a traditional wedding, and very cost efficient at the same time. Many state parks offer exclusive wedding packages that won’t have your wallet recovering years down the “aisle”. For example, Chippokes State Park in Virginia offers an affordable all inclusive package which covers everything from vehicle parking fees, tent and table use, use of their historic area grounds, and even a wedding ceremony rehearsal.

Another way to save money is with the option to utilize the park for both the wedding ceremony, as well as, the reception site. Let your wedding day flow more effortlessly by canceling out the chaos of lost or late guests. Similar to a traditional hall, many parks also offer wedding reception facilities. Instead of having to spend additional money to bring in portable restrooms or generators, like some outdoor weddings, these amenities are already on site at a state park. And, if your guest list keeps growing and growing, there are parks designed to accommodate even the largest of them all. Consider having a wedding ceremony at Ridley Creek State Park in Pennsylvania, which can accommodate up to 400 guests in its Tennis Yard, specifically tailored for an outdoor wedding.

Great Scenery

Image: www.cord3films.com

There’s something about Mother Nature’s serene landscape that makes an outdoor wedding so beautiful. Since nothing can beat Mother Nature’s natural decoration, little to no additional decoration will be required. If needed, simple flowers can be used to accentuate centerpieces or table arrangements. Depending on the season and the park, the type of flowers can even be picked to be reflective. For an excellent “scenic” option, look into Chimney Rock State Park in North Carolina where couples can tie the knot with 75-mile views of Lake Lure and the historic Hickory Nut Gorge as a backdrop. A scenic background will also make for great photo ops and timeless memories.

Flexibility

Image: www.usparks.about.com

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially since choosing a venue is one of the biggest items to check off your list. If opting for a traditional wedding at a church, it is common to have to work around your ideal wedding date. By choosing a state park wedding venue, this will enable more flexibility. Though it‘s advised to book as far in advance as possible, many parks take reservations as little as two weeks in advance and offer reputable vendors for your planning needs.

Honeymoon…Island State Park

Image: www.cwplanningbio.weebly.com

See, we told you that having your wedding at a state park was a good idea.

There’s even a state park dedicated to making your wedding and honeymoon memorable. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida is a popular destination for lovebirds looking to tie the knot. Enjoy each other’s company while swimming in the warm Gulf beaches, traveling the nature trails or even viewing one of the few remaining pine forests in South Florida. Many state parks also offer resort style packages to fit your wedding needs.

If you or someone you know is getting married, why not suggest one of the many state parks as a venue? There are tons of parks in each state that offer great options, affordable packages, as well as the perfect honeymoon spot. While lodging, wedding parties can even take advantage of a wide range of activities, including hiking, evening bonfires on the beach, swimming in the summer, or historic guided tours. Download the Pocket Ranger app to discover potential state park venues and exciting activities that will make for a truly unique and memorable wedding experience.

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No Child Left Inside: State Parks Host National Kids to Parks Day

A group of kids at last year’s event. [Image: Kidstoparks.org]

Ready, set, play! The National Park Trust (NPT) is kicking off summer with the Third Annual National Kids to Parks Day, this Saturday, May 18. Kids across the nation will have the opportunity to explore some of America’s best state parks.

Organized in part by the NPT, the Kids to Parks Day’s aim is to get children outside to not only enjoy nature, but to encourage staying fit and healthy.

“We want to inspire children to love the outdoors, to choose an active lifestyle, and to be future park stewards,” said Grace Lee, National Park Trust executive director. “We hope parents will take this opportunity to have some fun and enjoy one of our many amazing parks around the country.”

More than 300 cities, towns and parks will host the free, family-friendly event. According to a NPT press release, six governors (from Arkansas, Colorado, Missouri, Mississippi, Texas and Vermont) have issued state proclamations to commemorate National Kids to Parks Day. The release said more than 108,000 people participated in local events in 2012. As of Monday, May 13, nearly 121,000 people have registered for this year’s festivities.

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has even come on board to support the cause. “Our players have a special affinity for public parks and know how important it is for children to enjoy and play outdoors,” said Jason Belser, NFLPA senior director of Player Affairs and Development.”We are proud to join National Park Trust and its impressive list of national partners in promoting National Kids to Parks Day.”

Registration is simple. Visit the website at KidstoParks.org and fill out the short entry form. Below the form, you can see how to participate in your area, school contest information and photos from last year’s event.

“National Kids to Parks Day encourages children across America to get out and play. This simple idea of playing in a park can potentially give millions of kids the reason to get active and get outside just as families prepare for summer,” Lee said. “In one year, participation has tripled with children, families, educators, and elected officials jumping in to support parks and coming together in joyful and active outdoor fun. We want kids to love our parks and be empowered to protect and preserve them!”

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On Top of the World: Top 5 Most Inspiring Mountain Climbers

Although it’s easy to conquer your personal mountain without ever stepping onto an actual peak when you play the Post Grape-Nuts Fit “What’s Your Mountain?” GeoChallenge, there are plenty of adventurers who have made their mark and reached their goals atop real mountain summits. Today we’re celebrating those famous mountain climbers who have inspired us with their towering achievements. The next time you need a bit of inspiration to push you further as you knock obstacles out of your path, keep in mind these awesome adventurers who climbed not just to the top of soaring peaks, but also our list of the five most admirable mountain climbers:

Anna Elizabeth Dickinson

Image: www.commons.wikimedia.org

Even had she never set foot on a mountain, Anna Elizabeth Dickinson would be remembered for her remarkable life. The first woman to ever speak before Congress, Dickinson was once considered the brains of the women’s movement. She somehow found time (in between advocating for women’s suffrage and the abolition of slavery, of course) to scale mountains too. Not only did Dickinson buck convention when she wore trousers to conquer Longs Peak, she is also thought to be the first woman to ever reach the summit of Colorado’s highest summit, 14,433-foot Mount Elbert, way back in 1863.

Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

Image: www.time.com

Years before Neil Armstrong stepped where no person had stepped before, in 1953 Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay did just that when they conquered Mount Everest. Technically speaking, Hillary was the first person to ever reach the top (Norgay was a few steps behind), but for all intents and purposes, this brave duo reached the famous summit together. In fact, the two men always graciously insisted that their accomplishment was the result of teamwork. Also helping the men along on their journey? Post Grape-Nuts! That’s right. In case you missed it in last week’s blog post, Hillary and Norgay took the nutritious snack along for their trek. The next time you power up with Post Grape-Nuts Fit before hitting the parks, know that you’re in good company!

Junko Tabei

Image: www.et.wikipedia.org

Following in the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, in 1975 Junko Tabei became the first woman to conquer Mount Everest. Once she reached the peak, did she pack it in and head home to live a quiet life where she could revel in the glory of her accomplishment? No way! In 1992, Tabei also became the first woman to reach the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. In addition to Everest, this includes Kilimanjaro, Denali, Elbrus, Aconcagua, Puncak Jaya, and Vinson Massif. We hope she found time for a nap in between those treks!

Reinhold Messner

Image: www.forums.watchuseek.com

This famous adventurer climbs mountains like it’s going out of style! Perhaps that explains why he was able to make the first solo climb of Mount Everest – without supplementary oxygen, no less – and become the first person to conquer all 14 “eight-thousanders”, mountain slang for peaks higher than 8,000 meters or 26,000 feet. Did we mention Messner did most of this with four toes (six were amputated after they were frostbitten during a disastrous 1970 Himalayan climb)? In his free time, this avid climber also writes, which he tackles with the same ambition as he does climbing – he has published at least 63 books!

Whether you too hope to one day ascend a mountain, or have other lofty goals in mind, let the achievements of these five climbers inspire you. Of course, the first step on any journey should be fueling up with Post Grape-Nuts Fit cereal. After filling up with a delicious and nutritious bowl, there’s no mountain you won’t be able to conquer!

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Seeing Red: Tips for Catching Redfish from the Kayak

Contributed by Alex Vail, The Flying Kayak

Warmer water temperatures mean that the inshore Redfish bite is soon to be on fire. Reds enter some of the shallowest waters during the warmer months and often, a kayak is the best way to reach them. With the right know how, one can easily catch these amazing inshore fish from the kayak.

One of the most important things to consider when chasing Redfish from the kayak is the tide. Rising and falling tides are not only vital in that they can help trigger feeding, but they also allow access to certain fishable areas for short periods of time. A rising tide will bring bait into the shallows and with the bait, one will find the Reds. Often, areas that are completely exposed during a low tide are the areas to target during high tide. Oyster bars, mud flats, and grasses become submerged and in the kayak, a fisherman can maneuver around these in just a few inches of water. A falling tide is also important to take into consideration when fishing for Reds. Falling water levels suck baitfish out of cover such as oysters and grass. Areas adjacent to strong, outgoing currents are often good places to look for Redfish that are trying to snag an easy meal.

As mentioned before, areas such as oyster bars, mud flats, and grass are ideal places to target for Redfish. In especially shallow areas, look for that unmistakable Redfish tail sticking up out of the water. Tailing Reds indicate that they are feeding and an accurate cast in front of them can almost guarantee a strike. When one isn’t lucky enough to spot them tailing, look for pressure wakes or swirls in the shallows. Often overlooked as mullet, these disturbances on the water can actually be Reds cruising around in search of food. With a kayak, don’t be afraid to paddle up into flooded grass. Reds will enter the grass in search of baitfish and crabs. Pay attention to the nearby grass and look for vegetation. Chances are it’s a Redfish bumping into the stalk below the water.

This red was caught while cruising submerged oyster bars

As far as gear goes, I prefer to use a fast-medium action rod with matching reel and 8-12lb test line. For fly rods, an 8wt with a floating line works great. Weedless jerk shad, gold spoons, spinner baits, and stingray grubs are dynamite for Redfish. Color choice varies depending upon water clarity, but some of my favorites are black and chartreuse. For flies, I generally stick with clouser minnows, or crab/shrimp imitations. One trick that many people overlook is that Redfish aren’t shy about hitting topwater lures. Under the right conditions, and topwater lure can provide some of the most exciting shallow water Redfish action around. Do note, however, that because of their under slung mouth (thanks to being primarily bottom feeders), Redfish have trouble actually hooking themselves on a topwater lure. But sharp hooks and a fair amount of patience can be the ticket to landing these aggressive fish.

Used properly, a kayak can be the ultimate Redfishing platform. Their ability to enter shallower water than powerboats and their incredible stealth make them a valuable tool when chasing Reds. Targeting key areas and throwing the right lures can make a kayak angler successful this summer while fishing the shallows. And don’t forget to play the tides right. Not just for the fishing’s sake either. Even a kayaker can get stuck sometimes!

Paddle strokes through the mud show just how shallow it can get.

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Penn Gems: Three of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Coolest Hiking Destinations

Contributed by Katie Levy, Adventure-Inspired

After living in eastern Pennsylvania for almost six years, I’ve learned that there’s no shortage of options for those of us who love to hike. Whether you’re looking for a weekend backpacking trip, a place to camp and day hike, or just a quick escape, there’s something for everyone in the eastern part of the Keystone state. But when it comes to unique spots to visit, three in particular come to mind right away. If you’re in Pennsylvania and plan to visit any of these destinations, make sure you take the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests version of the Pocket Ranger App with you. You can use it to track your progress along the trail, mark waypoints, and snap and share photos with friends!

Ricketts Glen State Park’s Stunning Waterfalls

What’s better than following a cool, clear stream to a beautiful waterfall during the hot summer months? Following that same stream to over 20 waterfalls! Ricketts Glen State Park, located in Luzerne, Sullivan and Columbia counties, is one of the most beautiful spots to visit any time of year. (Proper gear, including crampons and ice tools, is essential for winter hiking.)The scenic 7.2 mile Falls Trail is a real challenge, but with the promise of 21 named waterfalls ranging in size from 11 feet to 94 feet, it’s well worth the trip. Ricketts Glen is also a fantastic camping and general outdoor recreation destination. If you’re headed there in summer, reserve campsites well in advance; the good ones go quickly.

Hickory Run State Park’s Massive Boulder Field

At just under 16,000 acres, Hickory Run State Park in Carbon County might not be Eastern Pennsylvania’s largest, but it does house one of the Pocono region’s most unique hiking destinations – a giant boulder field. Though the boulder field is accessible by car on Boulder Field Road, hikers can use the 3.5 mile long Boulder Field Trail for a more scenic approach. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll want to leave plenty of time to explore. And with over 40 miles of trails to choose from, the beach at Sand Spring Lake and plenty of campsites, you might find one visit isn’t enough to see all of Hickory Run.

Lackawanna State Forest’s Beautiful 20+ Mile Loop Trail

While searching for the perfect trail for a weekend backpacking trip last year, a good friend mentioned he’d recently completed the lesser known Pinchot Trail near Bear Creek, Pennsylvania. With some elevation gain, expansive forests, beautiful stands of hemlocks and an honest-to-goodness babbling brook, the Pinchot is by far one of the coolest trails I’ve hiked in Pennsylvania. If you’re in superior shape, like my good friend is, the trail can be done in a day. But there are plenty of campsites and things to see for those more interested in taking their time. (The Pocket Ranger app and this video trip report should provide plenty of area knowledge for your trip!)

If you’re familiar with these spots, any tips for first time visitors? What other can’t-miss eastern Pennsylvania hiking spots can you think of?

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Pocket Ranger® Blog

We connect with nature lovers, park goers & outdoor enthusiasts to promote free, state-sanctioned State Park & Wildlife apps.

Ready for Pocket Ranger Trophy Case™? Brett Melillo is!

Close Range Archery Practice

Nature’s Nuptials: Saying ‘I Do’ The State Park Way

No Child Left Inside: State Parks Host National Kids to Parks Day

On Top of the World: Top 5 Most Inspiring Mountain Climbers

Anna Elizabeth Dickinson

Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

Junko Tabei

Reinhold Messner

Seeing Red: Tips for Catching Redfish from the Kayak

Penn Gems: Three of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Coolest Hiking Destinations