Outdoor Academy

The Okefenokee Swamp is one of the “Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia.” This 438,000 acre blackwater swamp located in the state’s southeast region is the largest blackwater swamp in the country. Essential to the well-being of several interconnected waterways, endangered species that call the swamp home, and local Georgians alike, the Okefenokee Swamp plays an irreplaceable role within local ecosystems, economies, and Georgian culture. However, the Okefenokee is at risk. A pilot mine, proposed by out-of-state corporation Twin Pines Minerals, LLC, is currently pending approval by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, and could destabilize 6,000 year old hydrological and ecological processes of the Okefenokee. This mine threatens the swamp, its inhabitants, and the people who rely on the swamp and its downstream waterways for their livelihoods. In an effort to save this critical resource from going extinct, a rallying cry resounds from concerned citizens across the globe during the current open comment period before it closes on April 9th, 2024. We spoke with Christopher Watt — concerned South Georgian, environmental policy graduate student, and member of the Okefenokee UNESCO World Heritage Site advisory committee — to understand what’s at stake and why outdoorsmen across the Southeast should take action.

As the snow of winter melts, anticipation builds for the exhilarating outdoor experiences that accompany springtime throughout the United States’ freshwater and saltwater fisheries. Rivers fill with snowmelt, baitfish make their seasonal migration along the coast, insect hatches entice more bites, and new life begins its annual cycle. The swell of biodiversity this season means more trophy fish to catch and more exciting opportunities to hunt. With so many excellent ways to capitalize on what this season has to offer, AnyCreek is here to give you a head start with this list of the hottest fishing and hunting trips for the spring season.

Embark on a journey through diverse cultures and culinary traditions as we delve into the multifaceted world of carp fishing and its significance across the globe. In this series, we’ll be diving into the varying viewpoints surrounding some of the world’s best-known game species. One’s trash is another’s treasure, and here we’ll be looking at how those opinions came to take hold. In this article, discover how carp — revered by some, despised by others — came to gain its fame — or notoriety — in several cultures around the globe.

Embark on a captivating journey into the Florida Keys' waters for an exciting tarpon fishing experience. These magnificent fish, known as the Silver King, promise an adrenaline-filled adventure with their powerful jumps and colossal size. Before you cast your fly into this piscatorial saga, discover the essentials of tarpon behavior, optimal fishing times, and the right gear. This guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of successful tarpon fishing, making every moment on the water a thrilling chapter in your fishing career.

Fly fishing requires not only skill and patience but also the right equipment. Modern fly rods have evolved into sophisticated tools, essential for any angler looking to make the most of their time on the water. These precision instruments are crafted to offer the sensitivity needed to detect subtle takes and the strength to battle the most spirited fish. While these rods have come a long way, where they are today is a testament to innovation and the eternal passion for angling. As you navigate through this guide, you will gain insights into how these top-tier brands shape the experience of anglers around the globe, empowering them with tools forged from tradition, refined by technology, and ready to meet any challenge the water holds.

Picture this: a world where rods and reels weren't just tools, but symbols of innovation, craftsmanship, and undying passion. Join us as we dive into the history of American-made rods and reels, tracing the evolution of this fishing gear from its humble origins to the pinnacle of modern engineering it has become. This journey into history is not just an exploration of the evolution of fishing tackle, but also an understanding of the craftsmanship, innovation, and passion that have defined American angling for centuries.

Night fishing offers a chance to immerse yourself in the nocturnal rhythm of nature, where every movement and sound takes on heightened significance — for predator and prey alike. Whether you're a novice or seasoned angler, venturing into the darkness presents an element of the unknown and a thrilling unpredictability. In this guide, we'll explore the essentials of night fishing, from safety precautions to specialized gear and effective techniques, ensuring an unforgettable and fruitful experience for all.

Achieving an inshore grand slam in recreational fishing is a monumental feat that requires skill, strategy, and a deep understanding of the coastal ecosystems. This guide will walk you through the process of accomplishing this angler's dream, including where to fish, the regions where it's possible, tactics for catching some species involved, and a timeline for a successful day on the water.

Blending tradition with nuance and creativity is no easy task in the world of music. Chris Pandolfi – banjo player and vocalist for the Grammy-winning Bluegrass band The Infamous Stringdusters – sat down with us to talk about the development of an outdoor mindset and the importance of remembering your roots in both Bluegrass and fishing.

Tying a proper knot is one of the fundamental skills of fishing. Among the many fishing knots out there, the Bimini twist is known for its strength and reliability — a must for any angler’s arsenal. We'll uncover the secrets of this beloved knot as we explore its different uses in various fishing techniques like fly fishing in the Florida Keys. By diving deep into the world of the Bimini twist, we'll show you why so many anglers depend on this knot and why you should too.