Tag: New York

3 Top Fresh Water Fishing Destinations in the U.S.

 

fishingTable Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri

Known as being one of the best bass lakes in the United States, it is no surprise that many amateur fishing lovers hail from all corners of the country to visit Table Rock Lake.

Since the water is clear most of the year smaller natural baits work best. Along with using live bait, plastic worms have also proved to be most effective during the catch.

If you are a kayak fisherman you will need one of the higher quality fish finders because the water can be discolored and it can sometimes be very difficult to determine the water’s depth. Keep a lookout for objects or vegetation on the lake’s floor, as this generally where the bass tend to gather.

Kentucky Lake, Kentucky/Tennessee

The largest man made lake on the eastern side of the Mississippi, Kentucky Lake runs North to South along the Western tip of Kentucky and nearly the entire western border of Tennessee.

Interestingly enough, this man made lake contains every species of freshwater fish which is one of the many reasons it is such a desirable destination for fishing lovers.

Kobuk River, Alaska

The Kobuk River is famous for containing a variety of fish which we don’t see in the lower 48 and you can only access this river by a small airplane. Kobuk river is famous for sheefish, arctic grayling, lake trout, arctic char, chum salmon and northern pike.

The sheefish is the most common fish species in the area and it has a similar taste and size to halibut. Since they grow quite large, you would need a larger rig to catch.Since Sheefish are aggressive fighters and feed on smaller fish, use a 2-3 inch line to catch them.

While these are top three areas for freshwater fishing, there are so many other places to visit that have an abundance of aquatic wildlife.

The Best Hikes on the Appalachian Trail

Springer Mountain, Georgia
This hiking trail that is around 75 miles in length and generally lasts for eight days is located at the southern end of the Appalachian Trail in northern Georgia. Starting from the northern portion of Georgia to Georgia and ending in the southern depths of North Carolina, the most mesmerizing part of this trail is the shady, oak valleys that are completely breathtaking. Since this journey is often fairly longer, hikers agree that the best time to explore this trail is during the milder spring climate instead of the hot, humid summer.

Anthony’s Nose, New York 2.2 miles round-trip

Contrary to what many hikers believe, the Appalachian Trail’s lowest point is actually where it crosses the Hudson River. Although many people are aware of this, the climb up to Anthony’s Nose is actually quite difficult, even for the fittest outdoor explorers. A short trail but fairly intensive, it does take some physical practice to prepare for this steep climb.

Delaware River, New Jersey/Pennsylvania 15.9 miles one-way (two days)

If you happen to make the special trip out to the Delaware Water Gap, be sure to visit The Kittatinny Ridge towers which offer incredible views of the tri-state area. Dip your toes into Sunfish Pond, the southernmost glacial lake on the A.T. Also, it is also very convenient to take a side trip to Mt. Tammany, where you can also see beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains in the area.

Avid hikers and sometimes photographers make the trip out to Mt. Tammany during the early spring (to see the pale green leaves) or mid-autumn to see the bright, vibrant leaves for miles at a time.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee (four days)

As the country’s most visited national park, this is a classic trip in the South that is an essential adventure for many outdoor adventurers all over the country. Reservations are required for shelters and campsites, and weekdays are generally less crowded. Hiking paths take visitors through ridges and streams, incredible vistas, icy bodies of water and a climb to the highest point on the trail at Clingman’s Dome, which is over six-thousand feet.

The hike up to Clingman’s Dome is quite impressive for everyone ranging from Trails are steeper, longer, and higher here than in Shenandoah National Park. Surprisingly enough, this trail that goes through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can experience rainstorms, snowstorms and hail storms in the spring.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 100 miles (ten days)

Unlike the other trails, the hike to Shenandoah National Park is definitely geared towards outdoor explorers that have worked up to an extensive physical excursion. In other words, this hike is in no way designed for the weak-hearted.

Although this is one of the longest journeys on the Appalachian trail, it is actually not the most physically draining or intensive. The length of the trail presents hikers and other visitors stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, along with the Shenandoah Valley, if you are keen on exploring some more.

 

 

Quechee Balloon Festival

The Count Down Until The Next  Quechee Balloon Festival.

322 Days

Once again the Quechee Hot Air Balloon, Craft and Music Festival hits the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire with over 20 hot air balloons floating everywhere. The festival includes music, entertainment for all ages, and over 60 craft artisans and commercial vendors. Children activities include train rides, a bounce house and more! Check out the beer and wine garden as well for the adults attending!

Balloon Rides are available to purchase starting April 2016! Book now with a local pilot, click here for more information!
 
Amanda Starbuck Amanda Starbuck

Best Fishing Destinations around New York City

New York City isn’t exactly synonymous with fishing. However, there are abundant options for fishing in and around the city if you know where to look.
adirondacksAdirondacks

Upstate New York is home to some of the best fly-fishing streams in the country. If you are looking to catch some trout, please take some time to visit this area that is just a two-hour drive to the northwest of the city. The winters are quite harsh, and generally are not great for fishing, unless you are a fan of ice fishing. However, late spring through fall provide great weather and the ability to fish this stunning wilderness. One of the best parts of the Adirondacks is the opportunity to go to the remote lakes, rivers, and ponds. It’s a great backcountry experience, and it is likely that you will not be disturbed by another fisherman.

In NYC

Perhaps you desperately want to go fishing, but your busy life prevents you from travelling to outside the city. Have no worries. There is a myriad of places at which you can fish right here in New York City. The majority of people are shocked that you can catch fish in and around New York given its urban nature. According to the State Department of Environmental Conversation, more than 300 different species of fish can be found in the city’s waterways. Fishermen in the city swear that the fishing is just as good in NYC as it is all around the planet. The season usually lasts from March to December. If you’re wondering exactly where to fish in the city, please visit the Parks Department Website. Some of the highlights include Prospect Park Lake in Brooklyn and East 96th Street in Manhattan.

Long Island

Long Water is generally considered to be a premier spot for saltwater fishing. In the surrounding waters, you can fish for striped bass, tuna, marlins, sharks, bluefish, blackfish, and more. But, it is also home to great fly-fishing opportunities as it boasts more than 400 lakes and 50 kilometers of streams.