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Archive for July, 2010

Victoria Whale Watching: Magic On The Water

July 31st, 2010

Victoria BC whale watching is the quintessential experience of a trip to the Island. With such a unique opportunity presented to them, visitors shouldn’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whale watching is truly magical; there is nothing like seeing those sleek black and white bodies emerge from the water. What’s more, you are also getting fun excursion trip out on a boat and the opportunity to gaze at the beautiful ocean and coastal scenery.

The best time for sightings of the resident orcas is April through to October. Orca Spirit’s Victoria whale watching tours are three hours in duration running on average twice a day (9am and 1pm), and you can choose to tour in a zodiac or in one of the large, covered boats. The zodiacs zip around the water easily and give you that experience of being right on the water with the wind whipping through your hair, whereas, the covered vessels are all about comfort and luxury. The indoor seating is heated, and the vessel has a liquor license and a spacious on board washroom. The covered boat also has a top deck that fits up to 40 people, which gives you a clear view of the whales and a chance to enjoy the sunshine and sea wind.

There are three pods of resident orca, which are known as the J, K, and L pods, in the areas where Orca Spirit’s vessels travel, the Juan de Fuca and Haro Straits. There are about 100 whales total, which means that in the peak months, you are practically guaranteed a sighting. The high number of whales in the area makes the success rate for sightings about 95%.

Other marine life you might see includes pelagic birds (e.g. cormorants and bald eagles), otters, Harbour and Elephant seals, Dalls and Habour porpoise, and Humpback, Gray, and Minke whales.

Orca Spirit also offers some special/custom group packages: dinner cruises, custom charters, and a combined whale watching - Butchart Gardens excursion where you go whale watching, tour the Gulf Islands, and have the unique chance to access the Gardens by water. It is recommended highly that you stay for dinner and/or the evening fireworks at Butchart Gardens as well. A tour like this is sure to be the highlight of your trip to Victoria!

If you are interested in Victoria BC whale watching, Orca Spirit Adventures gives you the opportunity to go on Victoria whale watching tours in either zodiacs for a sense of adventure or in covered boats for comfort and luxury. If you are planning to visit the Victoria, check out this article on whale watching in the area.




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Casting The Fly Fishing Rod

July 30th, 2010

Fly fishing varies quite a bit from the other forms of fishing.

It’s important that you choose the right fly fishing rod, as this is the piece of equipment that is the most crucial to your success.

With the other forms of fishing, whilst technique is very important, it is a little different in that the more power you can physically put into the cast, the further your bait will go. When taking up fly fishing, this can be a problem.

Casting a fly line is all about technique. With no weights fitted to the line as in other forms of rod fishing, it is all about using the fky fishing rod in the correct manner to get the line to travel through the air.

The first stage of casting a fly line is the “back cast”. It is common for people when first starting to cast the line back and then cast the line forward almost immediately. This often results in the line going nowhere and landing on the ground beside them.

A correct back cast involves stopping the rod in the vertical position, whilst at the same time stopping the line with your free hand. What this does is “load” the rod. In other words, the line, when stopped, will pull the rod backwards. It is vital that one waits a second or so until one can feel the rod has loaded, before moving the rod forward and at the same time releasing the line.

This allows the line to flow freely through the rod rings, the impetus caused by the springing action of the rod. The temptation is to back cast violently and with the rod ending 90 degrees to the ground, then throwing the line forward as in a bait or spin fishing cast.

If the back cast is not done properly and the rod is allowed to travel back further than the vertical, there is then insufficient power stored in the rod for the forward cast, and the result is usually a tangle!

Casting also invloves what is termed “false casting”. This is where several casts are made without the line landing on the water.

The experts suggest that you do not want to use more than three false casts. This is really down to the individual, but putting too much line into the air can result in a loss of control.

Relaxing and casting smoothly, remembering to pause at the top of the back cast are the keys to successful fly line casting.

Zac has been a steady fly fisherman for many years, and loves to pass on tips and techniques. When taking up fly fishing Zac recommends buying fly fishing combos. The great thing about fly fishing combos is that you buy all the main elements, rod, line and reel at a discounted price.

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What To See And Do In The Waters Off The Coast Of British Columbia

July 30th, 2010

The waters around the Queen Charlotte Islands have a reputation for being the best in the world for massive catches of premier salmon, halibut and ling and rock cod. The nutrient-rich waters heavy with schools of baitfish - combined with the prime location of these 150 islands in the salmon migration channel - make for an unbeatable fishing adventure.

To make the expedition truly memorable, hire a BC fishing charter with an experienced captain and crew. These professionals should have a year-round knowledge of the waters and specialize in fishing for salmon and halibut. Not only will the crew work hard to make sure everyone on the boat catches their limit, but they’ll also provide top-of-the-line gear and sound advice regarding bait, tackle and tips for reeling in the top catches. Best of all, after landing that 150-pound halibut, anglers can let the crew clean and prepare their catch for shipping while they relax or prepare to drop another line.

As opposed to going it alone, hiring a charter gives anglers the security of knowing that each vessel within the fleet is compliant with Canadian Coast Guard regulations. These boats are also equipped to provide a comfortable trip to passengers; some have cozy staterooms, a spacious galley and a restroom or two.

Travelers usually fly in from Seattle or Vancouver, BC, a flight of just a couple of hours, and then hop onto a float plane to their island destination. Those longing for a slightly more scenic arrival can take the six-hour ferry ride from Prince Rupert on the mainland to the Queen Charlotte Islands.

The adventure can start with a voyage the night before aboard a sturdy cruiser that carries the party out to the fishing grounds. For charters that are combinations of fishing and lodging, the staff can prepare a hearty dinner at the lodge to get the group energized for an early rise and quick start in the morning.

Between catches, guests should keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales, porpoises and breeching orcas. Other marine life includes sea lions, seals and, of course, bald eagles that scope out fish from high above. When trolling close to shore, don’t be surprised to spot a grizzly wandering the shoreline.

After catching their limit, guests looking for their next adventure can try freshwater fishing, hiking in the lush woods of the island forest, or adding hunting or diving to their sporting agenda.

Anglers who book their next excursion aboard a chartered cruiser will experience comfort, world-class BC fishing and magnificent shoreline and ocean views throughout the duration of their trip. For unlimited beauty, non-stop adventure and a chance to tell terrific - and true - fishing stories afterward, the Queen Charlotte Islands remain an unmatched destination.

Reproduction permitted only when all active hyperlinks are included. 2010 All rights reserved.

Stephen Daniels is an acclaimed NetBiz SEO 2.0 researcher. For a great BC fishing charter around the world-famous Queen Charlotte Islands, he highly recommends North Coast Fishing. Their professional and experienced guides and beachfront lodge accommodations are perfect for your next BC fishing trip.

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Identifying Bowie Knives

July 29th, 2010

A Bowie knife is a specific thing, even though the term is loosely applied to most any large hunting knife. A Bowie knife has distinguishing features that make it very specialized in certain ways and very versatile in others. The principal difference between a Bowie and most hunting knives is that a Bowie was designed to be a dual-purpose device in a specific regard: It was designed both for utility and as an implement of self-defense. The design carries the name of its original carrier, Jim Bowie, a legendary frontiersman and one of the fighters at the Alamo.

Bowie knives always have clipped points. This feature is the end part of the blade where the center of the blade dips below the spine. Though this feature is attractive, it offers far more than looks. In a fight, this narrow portion of the blade is lethal in its ability to penetrate deep into the body with little effort. This creates what is called a false edge along the back of the blade. Some users sharpen this edge. Outside of fighting, however, this modification has little practical usage and may make the knife more dangerous to the user.

Unlike most hunting knives, a Bowie knife has a wide and angled hand guard. This is also principally designed for its utility when fighting. The hand guard can deflect other weapons away from the user’s hands-hands and arms are major targets in knife fights-and also prevents the user’s hand from sliding up the blade if it meets heavy resistance from a thrust. As much as a Bowie is a tool of the frontier, it is also a weapon of war and its namesake owner was legendary for his skill with this particular weapon.

Bowie knives are always single-edged knives. The back of the blade is sometimes altered to provide more utility. On some knives, there are saw portions or a sharpened section along the false edge of the blade clip. These are user customizations, however, and this knife is always a single edged weapon when manufactured to traditional standards. While double-bladed knives may be a bit more deadly, they are very impractical for any kind of work and oftentimes endanger their user when pressed into service for such mundane tasks as cleaning game.

A Bowie knife is generally a very large knife, being anywhere between 6 and 12 inches long. While there are longer models made, they are essentially novelty items. A real Bowie is as precise as it is large and deadly.

Dave is the owner of an online bowie knife and glock grip extension store.

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My Little Island Home In Hawaii

July 29th, 2010

Deep sea fishing is one thing, but when you are sailing out of exotic Kailua Kona or Waikiki Hawaii, fishing species that include mahi mahi, yellowfin and marlin, you are in for some real sport, because fish in the waters off Kailua Kona do not reel in easily. With an abundance of beach rentals that include all the amenities, you will be able to prepare your prize in your own kitchen, cooked to your own liking after your day on the water.

In addition to numerous Hawaii rentals in the area, there are a lot of excellent boat charters with experienced skippers and guides who are more than delighted to take you out to sea to catch the big fish. But while the excellent deep sea fishing may wind up being the high point of your Hawaii vacation, it is not all that the Waikiki area has to offer. Although the beach itself is fairly short, it is one of the most surfer friendly places in the world. The extensive, rolling breaks characteristic of Waikiki make it amazing for longboarding as well as tandem surfing and is particularly suitable for beginners just learning how to ride the waves.

Waikiki has always been a bit exclusive. Before the arrival of Europeans, it was reserved for Hawaiian royalty. In the Polynesian language, waikiki translates as “spouting fresh water” after the streams and springs that once flowed into the surrounding wetlands. Of course, it was not long before Europeans discovered it. The first resort was established in 1893 where one of the first guests to stay there was author Robert Louis Stevenson, author of “Treasure Island” and “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” Today, high rises and and beach vacation rentals surround the beach, so you may have to go a bit further afield if you are looking for more excluded beach rentals.

Romantic getaways are much easier to find on the Big Island around Kailua-Kona but before you head off to that location, you will want to visit some of the scenic and historic parks, reserves and other sites around Waikiki. For example, there is Kapiolani Regional Park, the oldest public park in the Aloha State and home of the Honolulu Zoo and a popular concert venue as well. Military history buffs will enjoy the Fort DeRussy Military Reservation. Although still an active U.S. Army Base, it is open to the public and is the home of the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii.

If you enjoy golf, you will unquestionably want to play a round at the Makaha Resort Golf Club in Waianae. This resort, on the west shore of Oahu less than an hour from Honolulu, offers the best of the New and the Old Hawaii. Only half a mile from the historic 600 year old Kaneaki Heiau Temple, the resort presents a variety of interests aside from golf that range from tennis and aerobics to native Hawaiian cuisine, music and even Polynesian language instruction.

James Harden is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on beach rentals and things to do.

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When Looking For A Fish Finder, Consider Where You Will Be Fishing Most Ofter

July 29th, 2010

There are literally 100s of fish finders to choose from, and you do not want to spend money on one that you will not get your use out of. Fish finders can be mounted to large boats that will be out in deep waters, or smaller boats for lakes and rivers.

It is important to consider how deep the water will be, where you plan on fishing most often. Some of the models can only measure a couple hundred feet. If you are looking for a bigger screen, color, and better resolution, be prepared to pay more.

It is also important to consider how deep the water will be, where you plan on fishing most often. Some of the models can only measure a couple hundred feet. If you are looking for a bigger screen, color, and better resolution, be prepared to pay more.

Generally, higher frequencies gives the best detail, and works best in shallow water and at speed. Target definition is also sharper with these higher frequencies. This is the ability to show two fish as two separate echoes instead of one single mass on the screen. In short, it works well for depths of less than 200 feet and for getting an accurate reading while moving faster.

A higher frequency usually gives the best detail, and will work best in shallow water. Target definition is also sharper with these higher frequencies. This is the ability to show two fish as two separate echoes instead of one single mass on the screen. In short, it works well for depths of less than 200 feet and when you need to get an accurate reading while moving faster.

Looking to find the best deal on Garmin Fishfinder 400C Dual Frequency , then visit us to find the best advice on Garmin Fishfinder 400C Dual Frequency for you.

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North by Northwestern: A Seafaring Family on Deadly Alaskan Waters (Kindle Edition) recently tagged "fishing"

July 29th, 2010
North by Northwestern: A Seafaring Family on Deadly Alaskan Waters

North by Northwestern: A Seafaring Family on Deadly Alaskan Waters (Kindle Edition)
By Mark Sundeen

Buy new: $12.99
Customer Rating: 4.8

Customer tags: 9 99 boycott(7), deadliest catch(4), fishing(3), alaska(3), northwestern(3), memoirs

More info

Fishing News

SOULFISH - A Fly-Fishing Adventure Film

July 29th, 2010

SOULFISH is Fly-Fishing’s greatest adventure. Check it out at www.burlproductions.com

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Enjoy A Family Fishing Holiday At Rainbow Beach

July 28th, 2010

Rainbow Beach is gearing up our top annual events. Billed as one of the best Fishing Competitions you’ll see: people come from all over to have a great family getaway, boys week out or escape from it all to Rainbow Beach.

If you are into Beach fishing, Rock fishing, Fishing in estuaries, or off the reef - Rainbow Beach caters for all. We have over 100km of coastline and with dart, whiting, flathead, bream and taylor caught off our beaches. The charters will be happy to help you find Red Emporer, Sweet Lip, Snapper, Pearl Perch, Parrot and Coral Trout in a day of reef fishing. Mackerel and Kingfish are commonly caught off the rocks at Double Island Point- easily accessed by 4WD.

If you have a boat or plan to hire one, launch off at Carlo Point to the beautiful Tin Can Bay Inlet - a fisherman’s paradise - great for Sand crabs and Muddies. It is also the gateway to the Great Sandy Straits and is protected by Fraser Island.

Open to all ages and gender, the Rainbow Beach Family Fishing Classic is a fishing tournament for those new or experienced at fishing, or people who want to enjoy the experience of watching and joining in all the other activities.

There is so much to do, you don’t even have to fish to enjoy it! Our family enjoys the kids day, the entertainment each night and the fact the event helps raise money for our local school. There is $100,000.00 worth of reasons to enter the event and it is not just the big fish that win, in fact you do not even have to catch one to win the 2010 Grand First Prize.

The competition is run over an eight day period, 23rd - 31st July, 2010, encompassing a full weekend and fishing is permitted from south of Eurong on Fraser Island and north of the Noosa River.

If you love to fish or holiday the categories are Beach, Reef and Big Fish and schedules include special events for kids, ladies and veterans, nightly entertainment, prize draws and even a backyard chef competition. Come and join us!

Stay across the road from the Rainbow Beach Family Fishing Classic entertainment, or contact Rainbow Getaway to book rooms for you and space for your boat for your next fishing holiday. Free reprint avaialable from: Enjoy A Family Fishing Holiday At Rainbow Beach.

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Hawg Quest Coho Salmon Fishing in Alaska with Denny Hannah

July 28th, 2010

Watch Hawg Quest every Sunday morning at 9:30 am Pacific Time, 12:30 pm Eastern time on Fox Sports Net Northwest

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