Shotguns deliver a solid bang! for your buck and are one of the most popular home defense choices today. Shotguns are simple, affordable, and typically extremely reliable. While there are many different types, the classic pump-action is likely the one that comes to mind most often when people hear the word shotgun. The Winchester SXP Defender was often recommended to me over the years. When an opportunity to pick up an SXP came along, I eagerly opened my wallet.

Unboxing

Unboxing the SXP when I got home was a quick process and revealed basic packaging. It came in a branded Winchester cardboard box with a Styrofoam insert to hold the shotgun in place. Aside from the shotgun, there was a lock, manual and plug in case you need to limit your capacity for hunting.

Everything was secured nicely in its own cut out within the Styrofoam that kept it safe in transit. I would’ve liked to see a basic soft case to be included — as a minimum — but it was not a deal breaker.

Winchester SXP Features

“The SXP is exactly what I was looking for and nothing more.” That was the thought that crossed my mind when after unboxing the SPX, shooting it, and reflecting on the experience. I wanted something relatively lightweight, with a shorter barrel for home defense purposes, a total capacity of at least six shells, and the availability of plenty of aftermarket accessories. Check, check, check, and… check.

The chamber and bore are both hard chrome-plated to reduce wear and corrosion. The SPX comes standard with a fixed cylinder choke. For those of you who prefer to run a scope or red dot on your shotgun, the alloy receiver is drilled and tapped to easily add your scope bases. The Winchester SPX features a standard brass bead front sight, drop-out trigger group, and crossbolt safety placed at the front of the trigger guard for easy access.

Specifications

Gauge: 12Capacity: 5+1Action: Pump Overall Length: 38 ½ inchesSights: Bead Front SightChamber: 3 inches (accepts 3-inch and 2 ¾-inch shells)Magazine Type: TubularBarrel Length: 18 inchesWeight: 6 pounds, 8 ounces

Range Thoughts: Handling and Reliability

One of the most enjoyable aspects about this gun was the smoothness of the action. Since it’s inertia-assisted, follow-up shots were quick and simple.

The texture on the stock and ribbing on the forearm were just enough to assist with a secure grip if your hands got wet, without being gritty and uncomfortable. The recoil pad was sufficient, but I would’ve appreciated a little bit more recoil absorption.

Short shooting sessions would not have been an issue, but for testing, I put a lot of rounds through it. With that being said, for hunting scenarios or normal shotgun range time , I think it would be more than adequate.

From a reliability standpoint, I had very few issues. Over the last four range trips, I put a total of 250 rounds downrange at both indoor and outdoor ranges, with temperatures down to the single digits. Out of the 250 rounds used for the test, 100 were various buckshot rounds, 100 were various birdshot rounds, and 50 were slugs.

I wound up experiencing two failures, both of which were failures to eject and near the tail end of the 250. Perhaps it was operator error. I can not say for sure whether I short-stroked the gun, so I hate to blame the gun.

The accuracy was as expected from an 18-inch 12 gauge. For my original accuracy test, I chose to use #4 buckshot, from 15 to 75 feet at 15-foot intervals. Of course, the groupings spaced out after 30 feet as expected. For the most part, within 45 feet, the “intruder” would be getting hit with most, if not all, of the pellets.

Winchester SXP: Final Thoughts

The Winchester SXP Defender is a solid, entry-level 12 gauge shotgun with plenty of after-market accessories to take it to the next level. Given its combination of reliability and affordability, I would recommend at least checking it out, if you are in the market for a new shotgun. I’ve been having a blast, pun intended, shooting the SXP and think you will too.

Have you had the chance to shoot the Winchester SXP Defender? Share your review and experiences in the comment section.

Bio: Ryan Domke is a freelance writer, photographer, and social media consultant with a passion for guns and tactical gear. He works with some of the largest manufacturers in the firearms industry, allowing him the opportunity to continuously learn from and knowledge share with the 2A community.

When he’s not spending time with his family, you’ll likely find him at the range or starting a new DIY project. If you’d like to check out some of his other content, you can find him on Instagram at (@TheGuyGearReview).

In fish and fishing, it’s essential to get updated on the current news and learn a bit about the history and the people. So, why don’t you check your list and find out if yours hit the top list of the world’s most famous and best anglers!

Top #11 Andy Mill

Placing in the eleventh of the most famous anglers that you should know is Andy Mill. He took a variety of careers-broadcasting, writing and is a renowned world-class downhill ski racer. But not only that, but Mill is also a known Tarpon lover. He even has an endearment for it, which he calls “poon.”

Checking up his fishing stats, he’s best and killed fly rod tournaments with more wins than anyone. He is the only angler to have won a Tarpon, Bonefish, and Permit tournament on the fly. Andy Mill has so much love for his first love that he wrote an award-winning book, A Passion for Tarpon.

It’s incredible to fall in love with fishing just because of a string. Yes, you heard it right, a string but no ordinary string because it was by Ernie Schwiebert. Goodman Ernie helped him with his first attempt at casting. The first sight of the string was his love, but the first trout dropped the bomb to make Mill fall for fishing more.

This master and lover of Tarpon grew up in Aspen, Colorado. Mill described it as the place with the greatest mountains in the world. It’s full of ice suitable for skiing, and when summer’s in, it’s the best for fishing that he would even spend his entire summers on the Roaring Fork River chasing fish till dusk.

During his childhood, Andy Mill dreamed of winning at night. He dreamed big, and for that, he spent decades of learning fishing with the best mentors and guides he could find. He spends a lot of time fishing and fishing 40 days a year chasing Tarpons.

Colorado was his playground! So, what do you know, maybe you should play too! Don’t take fishing too hard. You should enjoy it and have fun. That’s what Andy Mill did, and look where it got him now—a five-time Gold Cup winner, which is the biggest fly rod tarpon tournament so that you know.

And just like any other anglers out there, he also failed and lost, but he found the courage and was restless, determined to win. Andy Mill was full of hope. He finds a lot of hope in fishing, and that’s why he loves doing it. He’s like a child hoping for a sunny day, for plenty of fish to be around, and for them to take the bait and take a bite! Andy Mill has that child in him but also has that determination and commitment of a man, and that’s what you should be.

Top #10 Joe Brooks

Next, that landed the tenth spot is Joe Brooks. If you’re a fly fishing fanatic, then you must have known this guy. Well, he’s just the guy who coined the term sportsman, and not only that; he’s just the father of modern fly fishing! He practically pioneered everything in fly fishing, popularized and expanded fly fishing than any other individual.

This man is a star! He appeared and hosted the first outdoor TV series ‘The American Sportsman‘ in the 1960s. Joe brooks also wrote different articles and books about how to start fly fishing and the techniques in fly fishing. He was born into a family of businessmen. He worked and tried, but he was not happy about it.

So Joe brooks pursued his two passions- writing and fishing! Hmm. There’s something fishy going on in here. Andy Mill and Joe Brooks, they’re pretty alike. They’re both known writers and loves fishing so much. Joe Brooks knows what he wants. He listens to what his heart says— he loves fly fishing!

Joe Brooks loved it so much that he shared it with the world by teaching and mentoring, traveling to different places like Argentina and the Everglades, exploring new ways or techniques using a fly in catching new and different fish species that weren’t tried or caught before. And that’s what makes Joe Brooks legendary!

Top #9 Michael Lerner

At number nine, coming in at number nine, is the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) founder Michael Lerner, a researcher and one of the greatest anglers of the early times. Lerner and his wife set out various fishing expeditions to explore and study different types of fish species, even those who haven’t seen the light of day. His works provided knowledge and understanding about the saltwater gamefish and proved to be an essential source for anglers, scholars, biologists, and conservationists. Lerner was also honored in the IGFA’s Hall of Fame and received numerous awards from different international bodies to contribute to the scientific and angler community.

Top #8 Ray Scott

What’s your world’s favorite game fish? It’s the Bass! Bass became famous because of Ray Scott. He influenced many anglers and even people who are not yet inclined to fishing to indulge in bass fishing through his television shows. He is known as the man who changed recreational fishing into a multi-billion dollar industry. He inspired many people at home to fish by letting them feel the joy of fishing while these people were watching TV! Scott was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the IGFA for his works, expanding the modern-day bass angling.

Top #7 David Moore

Now, down to number seven of the most famous is David Moore, a native Oklahoman angler whose name was included in the top 20 best anglers on the planet of the outdoor life. Moore, who was a former Bass angler, found Carp fishing more interesting. He participated at the World Carp Championship in 1999 and 2012 and at the 2009 World Carp Classic held in France. Moore and his fishing partner landed a total weight of 377lbs. 12 oz. at Nature’s Trophies Carp Challenge in 2010!

In 2004 he received a lifetime achievement award from the Carp Anglers Group for his dedication to promoting American Carp angling. He is the co-founder of the American Carp Society who has a mission to change the Carp’s image, and serves as a tournament director for Carp Tournament events.

Top #6 Curt Gowdy

Curtis Edward Gowdy, the only man behind the voice of every major sports event! Gowdy has both passions for announcing and fishing. He’s the famous American sportscaster of NBC Sports and has covered many nationally televised sporting events. He spearheaded the creation of “The American Sportsman,” the first fishing show on television. Curt Gowdy has 22 Halls of Fame from different award-giving bodies in different fields, one of which is the International Fishing Hall of Fame in 1981, IGFA Hall of Fame in 2003 National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in 2005.

Top #5 John Wilson

The best-known angler throughout Europe, John Wilson, takes the number five spot. He’s been an angler for over sixty years, honored and inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010 by the IGFA. In 1986, he started his show “Go Fishing,” which ran for 18 years. Wilson inspired many of his viewers and readers to start and to rekindle their long-lost love for fishing. He was recognized as the sole force behind the revival of sports fishing in the UK and was given a title as the “Greatest Angler of All Time” by Britain’s weekly Angling Times.

Top #4 Mike Iaconelli

You’re almost at the top, and the list is almost over. Mike Iaconelli was born in Philadelphia, is a professional Bass fisherman who won the 2003 Bassmaster Classic. He began fishing at a young age in the Pocono Mountains. He founded the “Top Rod Bassmasters,” a bass fishing club where he started participating in tournaments. In one of his tournaments, the Federation tournament, he broke a record of 19.58 pounds! And it was at the 1999 Bassmaster Classic, he finished in sixth place, Iaconelli received his first major sponsors.

He continued to bag his success, hauled in more than 4,000 pounds of bass, snagged five tournament wins, and finished in the top ten about 44 times! He is still on the top of his career, mastering the art and continuing his pursuit for the win. In 2014, Mike won the Bassmaster Elites at Delaware River and currently hosting “IKE LIVE!” a fishing talk show that features professional anglers in bass fishing and other fishing fanatics.

Top #3 Zane Grey

A one-time holder of over a dozen saltwater records, who is he? He was born on January 31, 1872, author and known for his popular adventure novels The Last of the Plainsmen and Riders of the Purple Sage. Got it? Do you need more clues? How about the first fisherman to drag around 471kg Pacific Blue Marlin? It’s Pearl Zane Grey!

Zane Grey contributed and popularized big-game fishing. He was a writer at the Outdoor Life magazine. He was inducted and received the IGFA’s Hall of Fame for his pursuits and contributions to the recreational fishing world. He mastered the methods to catch the elusive broadbill swordfish. He’s a devoted saltwater angler who spent most of his fishing, earning him to triumph and become a champion in-game fishing!

Top #2 Roland Martin

With over six decades of fishing experience in the water, Roland Martin is one of the most decorated and celebrated fishermen in bass fishing history. He is considered one of the founding fathers of modern bass fishing. Martin was one of the first anglers to introduce and popularize the idea of patterning fish. Like many famous anglers, Martin’s light shines brightly. He has TV shows on NBC, sharing his tricks and tips to young, less experienced anglers and avid viewers. He also has his fair share of fishing success, winning in tournaments, 19 pro tournament wins, almost 100 top 10 finishes, and 20-second place B.A.S.S. finishes. He was also entitled nine times as the B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year!

Top #1 Ernest Hemingway

Guess who’s on the number one list of the world’s most famous and best anglers that you should know. It’s (keep the drum roll going) Ernest Hemingway! So, what’s Hemingway’s secret that put him at the top spot? Maybe it’s Northern Michigan!

Northern Michigan was his Eden. He adopted his father’s outdoor hobbies like hunting, fishing, and camping in the wood and lakes, but it’s his personality and the constant pursuit of adventure that shaped him into the man that he was. He found solace and serenity in the forest or in wading a stream. He was three when he started fishing and ventured into deep-sea fishing in his early 30s. He won every organized fishing tournament. Incredibly, he caught one of the largest Marlins of all times, weighing almost 533kg!

Other than that, he is a Nobel Prize winner. He also received a Pulitzer award and is considered one of the great American 20th century novelists, but did you know that he almost missed his wedding so that he could enjoy fishing in Sturgeon River? Well, it’s a good thing he got his wife hooked up, or else it would be another case of a runaway bride or, in this case, a busy fishing groom!

Farewell to Arms, The Sun Also Rises, and the famous Old Man and the Sea arejust a few of his great works. You can check out these stories and try to read them. They’re full of adventure and fishing from the real-life experiences of the writer himself—his childhood memories, experiences, and his love for the place where he grew up and his passion for fishing. These stories did not only change literature forever, but they also instilled enthusiasm and stirred up curiosity and appreciation for the art of fishing.

You like fishing because you feel solace and connection with nature. You have the right quality of an angler but not yet the quality of the best angler. You know you have it in you. So, if you want to be like these guys, loved by fans, and you want to inspire people, teach them how to fish, entice them to fish, the answer is just simple, learn from the lives of those who were before you.

Like Andy Mill, give in to the child that’s in you- DREAM and HOPE. Like Joe Brooks, you must find your happiness—LISTEN to your heart. Like Michael Lerner, Don’t be afraid to EXPLORE; ENCOURAGE like Ray Scott; EMBRACE CHANGE like David Moore did. BELIEVE in yourself and NEVER QUIT like Iaconelli and the rest of these best anglers. Drive that passion and have FUN!

Poaching in Michigan is a serious offense in Michigan with serious penalties if convicted.

Did you know Michigan has elk? Most people think of these animals as belonging in the Western states or Canada. However, Michigan is home to a population of these beautiful, wild creatures. Michigan is also home to many avid hunters.

Unlike deer, who run rampant throughout the state and suffer from overpopulation, elk are more protected by the law. You could get in big trouble for hunting them without a special license.

Elk hunting licenses are only available by drawing, and there are a limited number available each year. If you don’t get a special permit, that’s it. You will have to try again next year.

Illegal hunting is called poaching, and poaching could cost you your ability to hunt in this state – potentially for the rest of your life.

Elk Poaching in Michigan

Two Michigan men were charged for poaching a cow elk in Wolverine, Michigan in 1998. It was through the DNR poaching hotline that DNR officers investigated Jakob Gagnon and Logan Turbin.

An anonymous tip about the pair led to a search warrant, which led to investigators finding elk meat and cocaine in Gagnon’s residence.

Turbin was charged with assisting Gagnon in processing the elk and illegal possession of elk meat.

Gagnon initially fled the state after authorities searched his home, but turned himself in to law enforcement. He was arraigned August 28, 2020 for taking an elk without a license, possession of stolen property, and cocaine possession.

Penalties for Poaching in Michigan

While Gagnon’s poaching crime was a misdemeanor, his actions attracted law enforcement who went on to find evidence to charge him with a felony crime.

That’s just one way in which breaking hunting laws can backfire on you.

New Deer Hunting Regulations in Michigan

It’s also good to be aware of some of the new bag limits on deer hunting as we get closer to deer hunting season. A mistake or a crime of opportunity could result in a massive fine.

In 2014, Public Act 175 of 2013 went into effect, making it more expensive to break the hunting laws. Rather than a flat $1,000 restitution fee, the fine increases with the number of points on the deer’s antlers, to discourage hunters from taking more trophy bucks than they are legally allowed to bag.

According to Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (Excerpt) Act of 1994:

A Michigan hunter was fined $15,000 for bagging an 18-point buck in 2015. It was his third of the season. Apparently, it was a “crime of opportunity.” He had the right to hunt, and the buck just walked in front of him.

Michigan Poaching Defense Attorney

Poaching may not be one of the top crimes leading to jail time or felonies on your record. However, if it doesn’t lead to those things, it can undoubtedly bleed your wallet dry.

For a hunter, losing your license potentially for 15 years isn’t worth the bagging that one animal. Don’t assume no one will tip-off investigators either.

If you’re facing jail time or hefty fines related to poaching in Michigan, call my office and get us working for you.

Call now

I will always remember telling a hunting story to a non-hunting co-worker a few years back. I was rambling on about the specific details of a deer hunt over the weekend using all the fancy deer hunting lingo. He graciously let me continue.

But when I had finished, he smiled and said, “That’s great; could you repeat that in English?”

I’m not sure if it actually happened, but it feels to me like I stood there with my mouth agape for about 5 minutes before I could muster an intelligent response.

Needless to say, I was a little embarrassed.

It had literally not even occurred to me that the deer hunting slang and hunting terms I had grown so used to would be so foreign to someone who had not hunted before.

As with any community or group, there is always a certain level of technical jargon to understand. But if you’re learning to hunt, there is a ridiculous amount of hunting terminology slang words to wrestle with. Trying to understand someone who uses these deer hunting terms and phrases might seem like you’re trying to test out of a college language requirement (and not doing well, either).

I felt it was about time I write an article to define some of these deer hunting terms for you. Reference it whenever you need to. When you’re done, check out the list of small game hunting terms too.

Common Deer Hunting Terms

Antlers The bony growths on a buck’s head. They’re called racks or horns too, but horns do not fall off; it’s just a misnomer. Deer, elk, and moose have antlers. Bag / daily limit The legal number of animals of a certain species you can kill each day. Bed Where a deer actually lays down, they leave an oval depression in the grass or snow. Larger beds usually belong to bucks. Bedding area A place where deer will rest and sleep during the day; usually this is found in dense thickets or places where they can easily hide. Bleating Does make a whiny bleat noise to communicate with each other and signal they are in estrous. Blowing Often following a “white flag”, deer will snort loudly (i.e., “blow”) to alert other deer about a threat. Broadside The most ethical shot at a deer is when they are standing perpendicular to you so you can see one entire side of their body. A broadside shot to the vitals is a quickly-killed deer. Brow tine The first antler tine nearest to a buck’s head. Browsing Deer are adapted to eat woody shrubs and herbaceous plants quickly by roughly tearing off large chunks and continuing on their walk. Buck A male deer. Busted / spooked When deer or other game smell, see, or hear you, they will get nervous and/or leave the area quickly. Button buck A male fawn deer that only has little bumps for antlers in its first year. These are generally considered legal does because their antlers are less than 3 inches long and can be confused for does in the field. Can call An accessory piece of hunting equipment, this call is typically in the shape or a small can and sounds like a doe bleating, which they use to communicate with other deer. Climber / climbing tree stand A tree stand that wraps around a tree trunk and has a seat section and foot-hold section. You use leverage to climb the tree. Doe A female deer. Estrous When does are ready to mate, they are “in estrous”, much like a dog is “in heat”. Fawn A fawn is a deer that was born the spring of the same calendar year. Can be a newborn with spots or look like a small deer at 6 months old. Feeding area A place where deer will eat during the night, whether that includes a corn field, food plot, young forest, or shrub patch. Field dressing After shooting a deer, you need to remove the entrails quickly so the meat doesn’t spoil. Also called “gutting”. Fork buck / forkhorn A male deer with a forked tine on each side of its head, but no more than 4 points or tines. Funnel A narrow area where topography and/or habitat features cause deer to converge on a single trail. For example, where a forest is pinched by fields on each side. Glassing Using binoculars or a spotting scope to look for wild game from a good vantage point. Grunt tube A tubular deer call that sounds like a buck grunting, which they typically do during the rut. Grunting Bucks make a low-pitched grunt at each other to signal aggression, especially during the breeding season (rut). Gut shot The region of a deer that holds the stomach, intestines, liver, and various other organs. A gut shot is to be avoided as it is likely to slowly kill a deer, but it is extremely difficult to find them. Hang-on tree stand A tree stand base that connects to a tree via a ratchet strap. It also requires separate ladder sections to be attached to the tree so you can access it. Harvest A popular term in wildlife management circles, the act of killing or “taking” an animal. It’s unpopular with many hunters due to the gardening analogy, whereas hunting is the act of taking a life. Horns A permanent bony protrusion from an animal’s head. See the difference from “Antlers” above. Cows, sheep, goats, or antelope have horns. Hunting weapons Generally defines any guns (rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader, or pistol) or bows (bow or crossbow) used to hunt animals. Different from tactical weapons, which are used more for target shooting. Ladder tree stand A tree stand that props up against a tree, using multiple connected ladder sections. License A hunting license should be purchased for each species or type of hunting you do. It is granting you the privilege to hunt. Mast The fruit or nuts of trees, including apples, pears, berries, grapes, acorns, walnuts, etc. Mature A deer is considered mature by most people when it reaches 3 1/2 years old. Nubbin buck See “Button buck” above. Paunch See “Gut shot” above. Pinch point See “Funnel” above. Possession limit The legal number of animals of a certain species you can physically have in your possession (in the freezer, canned, etc.). This may be more than the daily bag limit. Processing The process of skinning, quartering, and cutting all the meat off of a deer carcass. Doing this yourself can be intimidating, but you know exactly how the meat is treated this way too. Quartering (butchering) The act of cutting the “quarters” off of a deer while processing/butchering it. The quarters include all four legs. Quartering (shot) When a deer is slightly facing away from or towards you. Quartering away shots are great for bow hunters or gun hunters, but a quartering to shot should be avoided. Rack See “Antlers” above. Rattling A hunter uses two antlers to make it sound like bucks fighting, which can lure a mature buck into shooting range. Generally more useful in areas with little hunting pressure and lots of mature deer. Rub When a buck rubs its antlers against a tree to mark its territory, strengthen its neck, or remove its velvet, it scrapes the bark away. Commonly found in areas bucks like to hang out. Ruminant Like cows, deer quickly feed on plants while they can, and then lie down to chew their cud. This cud-chewing, combined with their four-chambered stomach, digests the food when they’re in the safety of their bed. Rut / pre-rut / post-rut The rut is when deer enter the peak of their breeding season (i.e., they breed the most). The pre-rut includes the weeks leading up to the rut, while the post-rut includes the weeks after it. Scent drag A piece of rope with a cloth at the end. The cloth is usually sprayed with a deer scent and drug through the woods behind a hunter to make it smell like a deer traveled the same path. Scope Magnifying optics usually mounted to the top of a rifle that allow you to make an accurate long-distance shot at an animal. Scouting The act of investigating a hunting property before you actually hunt it. A scouting trip helps you to find good hunting locations based off of wildlife sign. Scrape A scratched area on the ground (usually about 1-3 feet across) where a buck or doe leaves scent from its hooves and urinates into it to communicate to other deer in the area. Seasons The time allotted to hunt a certain species, usually open for a set number of days. Shed / shed antler As bucks enter late winter, the antlers on their head will fall off so they can start growing new ones in the spring. Shooter Usually used to describe a deer you would kill (one of legal status and to your liking). Sign The evidence left behind from animals, including tracks, trails, beds, rubs, scrapes, etc. Spike buck A male deer with only one tine on each side of its head, forming a spike. Stamp Some wild game species (e.g., waterfowl, pheasants, etc.) may require you to purchase a special additional stamp. The proceeds from these stamps will generally support additional conservation efforts for that species. Still-hunting Walking very slowly through the woods, trying to ambush an animal before they see/hear you. Tag In addition to your hunting license, you will have a field tag. This paper slip will contain basic harvest data about your animal, and serves to validate or fulfill your license. Tines The single bony extensions on an antler. Also called “points”. For example, an 8-pointer would have 8 tines (4 on each antler). Velvet In the spring and summer, velvet is living tissue that covers the development of deer antlers, making it one of the fastest-growing tissue in the world. They usually shed this tissue before hunting season. Venison Meat from a deer is called venison. Vitals The chest cavity of a deer that holds the heart and lungs. A shot with a bow or rifle in the vitals will usually quickly kill a deer and is the most ethical shot. White flag When white-tailed deer retreat, they raise their white tails to show a predator they were spotted. Not a good sign.

Using This List of Hunting Terms

Clear as mud?

As you can see, the deer hunting vocabulary is full of odd hunting terms; some make sense and some just don’t. I hope this hunting terms glossary will help you sort through that confusion.

It’s important to note that the hunting terms listed above really just scratches the surface for deer hunting. Besides that, there are specific bird hunting terms, turkey hunting slang words, and various other hunting phrases. If it’s helpful, I’ll add a list for those someday too.

I didn’t want to overwhelm you with one post!

The next time you hear another hunter talking in hunting slang, I hope you can use this list as a helpful resource to engage in the conversation.

If nothing else, feel free to call them out on it like my co-worker did to me. It will probably open their eyes to start using more inclusive hunting language going forward.

Anything I missed? Send me a quick message with deer hunting terms you’ve heard that boggled your mind.

Having a proper fishing reel for a specific fishing situation can make your fishing experience a whole lot better.

There is a lot of models available on the market, and choosing the right one can be a nightmare, especially for a bit less experienced angler.

Complete fishing beginners usually start their fishing adventures with spinning reels, but at some point, you may want to upgrade a bit, and learn how to use a baitcasting reel.

I wouldn’t recommend you to do so if you have no previous fishing experience, however, if you feel like you can manage, don’t let anyone stop you.

I tested a lot of baitcasting reels and decided to write this guide, to help you narrow down your choices, and choose the best baitcasting reel for beginners.

Also, I will tell you basic info about what to consider when buying a baitcasting reel and answer some common questions, in the following chapters:

9 Best Baitcasting Reels for Beginners

Now when you know what to look for when choosing the best baitcasting reels for beginners, I will make a list of the reels, including basic info about them, and all the pros and cons I have notice when I used them.

All of these have good anti backlashes properties, and will give you a lot of control over the lure and casting.

When you figure out how to use them, you are going to see how much better these are, when compared with spinning reels, when used in the same situations.

Before you move onto the more detailed descriptions, here is a quick overview chart …

#1: KastKing Royale Legend II (GT)

So, the first reel on the best baitcasting reels for beginners list is KastKing Royale Legend II (GT).

First of all, if you are buying on a budget, this reel comes at a great price. Of course, it is not as durable as some more expensive models, but it still has some great features.

Dual, magnetic and centrifugal, braking system controls the backlashes well, and while you are still in a learning process, you won’t have to untangle a huge mess.

The newer model has a greater line capacity, and the reel is quite fast. Anodized aluminum spool and a low-profile design are well made. The reel is strong and performs well, however, I don’t think it will last as long as some other reels.

The reel has 5+1 bearings that ensure smooth operation. Of course, at this price, their quality is not the same as in high-end reels, but it still works very well.

Maximum drag is 8kg/17.6 lbs.

Overall, this is a great and well-made beginner’s baitcasting reel.

#2: PisciFun Torrent

Another great option for beginners is PisciFun Torrent.

It is available in two options. Faster one, with 7.1:1 gear ratio, and slower one, with 5.3:1 gear ratio. Both are very well made.

Drag system is very dependable and the max drag is 8.1kg/18lbs, which is more than enough. The reel is made mostly from aluminum, including the handle, with carbon fiber drag washers, and it has brass drive gear.

There is a useful feature for maintenance on this reel. There is an opening on a side plate that is used for lubricating the reel.

Both options have 5+1 bearings and are really smooth. Line retrieve varies of course, and for the slower model it is 58cm/22.8 inches, while on the faster one it is 76cm/30 inches.

This low-profile baitcasting reel comes at a great price too, costing only a few dollars more than the previously mentioned reel.

Magnetic braking system operates well, although there is a slightly greater chance of backlashes here, than in the previous one. However, there is a 0-10 setting, which is very useful. It is also slightly heavier, and it weighs 0,22kg/8 ounces.

Altogether, it is a very good choice for a beginner.

#3: Abu Garcia Black Max

Abu Garcia is a classic when it comes to baitcasting reels.

I have included two on this list of the best baitcasting reels for beginners. The first one is Abu Garcia Black Max model

This low-profile reel comes with a 6.4:1 gear ratio with 66cm/26inches inches per turn, which positions it in the middle. This is great for beginners, as it can be used in various situations.

Magnetic braking system operates well, and backlashes are not a problem, if you get the settings right. It has 4+1 bearings, and those are very well made. The reel feels very smooth.

Maximum drag is 8.1kg/18lb.

Graphite frame and sideplates make it quite light. The reel weights 0.206kg/7.3 oz, which makes it just slightly harder than the first model on the list, hoverer the difference is small enough not to feel it.

Spool is made from aluminum. Price of this reel is in the same range as the previously mentioned models.

This reel really feels well. Due to the materials used in construction I don’t think it will last as some high-end models, of course, but for a beginner, it is an excellent reel to start. This reel is also a good back-up reel option.

#4: Abu Garcia Silver Max

Baitcasting Reel Abu Garcia Silver Max is another reel made by Abu Garcia (reputable manufacturer). At first sight, this reel has some similar features as the Bmax 3 model.

Gear ratio is the same, 6.4:1, and the main material is graphite, while the spool is aluminum. Breaking system is also magnetic, and operates quite well.

This reel comes with a “rocket clutch” feature, that gives the angler an opportunity to single handedly disengage or engage the spool.

It also has 5+1 bearings, which is one ball bearing more than the Bmax 3. Max drag is 8.1kg/18lb, and line retrieve is 66cm/26inches per turn.

Weight of this reel is 7.4oz, which is unnoticeably higher than the previous.

So, these two may seem the same, so what is the difference?

Well, the difference is that Smax has a rocket clutch which is a great feature for those who flip and pitch often.

For compete beginners, this feature will not be so important, so they can go with the previous model.

#5: KastKing Spartacus I & II

Spartacus is another great KastKing model. This reel exists in 2 versions, where II is a bit more advanced.

Spartacus II is among the faster reels on this list.

It has 7.1:1 gear ratio with 71cm/28 inches per turn. The 7+1 bearings ensure smooth operation. Version I has 11+1 ball bearings.

It is also very light, and weights only0.17kg/ 6oz. This is excellent for loner use and it doesn’t put a lot of pressure on your wrist.

Maximum drag is similar to other reels, and it is 8kg/17.6lbs.

Both Spartacus I and II are low profile, but the II version has it 10% lower.

Magnetic brakes go from 1 to 5 and work really well.

Spool and handle are made from aluminum, which makes them quite sturdy. Unfortunately, it has a few plastic parts too, and the main material is reinforced nylon, which I personally do not like, especially when you combine them with a relatively good spool.

I don’t think it can last very long, however; it comes at a great price. Don’t get me wrong, this is an excellent beginner option.

Spartacus I is also slower, with a gear ratio 6.4:1, with 66cm/26inches per turn if you need a slower reel. Maximum drag is the same, but this one is a bit heavier, and weights 0.2 kg/7.4oz. It also has dual braking system.

#6: KastKing MegaJaws

The first thing that amazed me on this reel is a casting distance. For a baitcaser in this price range, casting abilities are excellent. Line guide is funnel shaped and has very low friction.

It comes in a few different variations, so that you can choose among various gear ratios. Slowest one is 5.4:1, while the fastest is 9.1:1. This range cover almost all fishing techniques. These reels come with a cool feature, and that is different color for every reel speed.

Carbon fiber drag is incredibly smooth, as well as the whole reel, due to 11+1 stainless steel ball bearings. Ball bearings are double shielded to prevent damage and corrosion.

The 17.6 lbs. of drag is more than enough for beginner anglers.

Reel maintenance is also well made and simplified. There are easily accessible reel parts for lubrication.

Magnetic brake system works very well and prevents backlashes. Tension knob is adjusted by simple clicks and offers an outstanding level of control. The reel is lightweight, and it is easy to use it all day long.

It seems quite sturdy and dependable even for rough use.

#7: Shimano SLX

Shimano SLX looks absolutely excellent at first sight, and it really is. It is a bit more expensive than some cheaper models on this list, but it is worth it.

HAGANE body is used, and that is one of the best innovations from Shimano. Brass gears give smoothness and enable excellent cranking power.

This low-profile reel is very compact but despite its lightweight and small size it has incredible line capacity. SLX 150 can hold 150yards of 20 lbs. braided line.

It is available in three different gear ratios, and those are 6.3:1, 7.2:1, and 8.2:1. First two are very versatile and excellent for beginners who are still learning how to handle a baitcaster.

All models have 3+1 ball bearings but those are so well made that they are more than enough to deliver excellent smoothness.

Drag is smooth and dependable, going from 11 to 12 lbs., depending on a specific model.

Casting, reeling in, and handling the reel in general works without any flaws. You can easily cast very light lures without backlashes which is extremely important for beginners.

And one important info, lube this reel before first use.

#8: KastKing Crixus

When you look at this reel it looks similar to Shimano SLX, at least when it comes to color.

Brass pinion gears, as well as the main gear, ensure longevity and you can rest assured that the reel will last for a long time.

It is available in two gear ratios, 6.5:1 and 7.2:1, which is good enough for any beginner. Carbon infused nylon frame was used to reduce weight, and although you may think that plastic components are bad, the truth is, this one is quite good. As a beginner, you don’t need high-end reels for learning purposes.

It has 7+1 ball bearings made of stainless steel and performs very smooth. Aluminum handle and polymer grips work excellent even if the reel is wet, so you will not have slippery handles and problems while reeling in.

Drag is made with 4 carbon discs, and it delivers 17.6 lbs. of drag. Magnetic breaking can be easily adjusted and has 10 different levels of breaking.

This reel comes at an excellent price, and considering all the features, it is one of the best on the market if you are looking for your first baitcaster.

#9: KastKing Rover

And the last among the best baitcasting reels for beginners is another KastKing model, the Rover.

First of all, this reel is available in various versions, from 40 to 80.

Versions 40, 50, and 60 have a gear ratio 5.3:1, version 70 has 4.2:1 and versions 80 and 80 have 3.6:1, which is very slow, but for some users this may be necessary.

Max drags go from 6.8kg/15lbs for smaller models up to 13.6kg/30lbs for larger ones.

Aluminum sideplates and brass gears make it really sturdy. Components are very well made for a reel in this lower price range, and I think that this one can last a long time.

This is a round reel, unlike the rest of those on this list. Smaller sizes have 6+1 ball bearings, while larger ones have 4+1.

These reels are quite powerful, and the drag performs great. Braking system is centrifugal, and it can take a while for a beginner to get used to it, however, when you master it, this reel will fulfill all of your needs.

Due to increased side plates, these reels are a bit heavier than the previous models, however, this is something to expect from a more powerful reel. The smallest one weights 0.32kg/11.6oz, and the largest one weights 0.64kg/22.6oz.

Those who are in a search for a larger and more powerful reel, should consider this option. However, it would be great if you had at least some experience with smaller low-profile models first.

Most Common FAQs about Baitcasting Reels:

Beginners have a lot of questions, and that is understandable. It is better to be well informed before buying a certain product.

Here I am going to answer some of those questions. Some things have already been mentioned, but I will sum it up here, in case you missed it.

What Should I Look for When Buying Baitcasting Reel?

The first thing I always mention when someone is asking about any kind of reel is to buy equipment made by reputable manufacturers.

By doing so, you know exactly what you are getting, even if you buy their low-end product.

You should also know what kind of fish do you want to catch and what lures and baits you will use, and based on that, consider the following features:

Rounded vs. Low profile

Low profile baitcasting reels are more popular, and many beginners choose this type.

It is mostly used for fish species like bass. It is easier to palm and gives you more control when you are casting.

Rounded baitcasting reels can hold more line and they are a common choice of anglers who use heavier lines. These go well with larger baits, but are harder to control.

Material

This is a bit complicated subject, and I will try to explain it in simple words.

You can choose between aluminum and graphite, and depending on it, the price can vary.

As a beginner, you may want to start with the cheaper ones, because the first baitcaster you buy will be used for practice and learning.

Aluminum is sturdier, and can handle rough use. A lot of anglers go for this option. Graphite is lighter but prone to damage. It is also cheaper.

When it comes to spool, they are mostly made from aluminum, however, high-end models use forged aluminum. Spools are frequently drilled to reduce weight.

Line guide can be ceramic, aluminum or titanium. The first ones are the cheapest, while titanium is the most expensive. Quality of course, follows the price.

Gear ratio

When choosing the best gear ratio, think about lures and fishing techniques.

Those using spinnerbaits should go for 7.1:1. Slower presentation usually done with crankbaits requires gear ratio around 5.4:1, which is on a slower side.

Medium option is 6.4:1, and that can be used in numerous situations.

Ball bearings

Quality comes before quantity.

Smaller number of well-made ball bearings is much better than a larger number of poorly done. Of course, if quality is the same, then you should go for a higher number.

Braking system

Backlashes are the biggest problem of baitcasting reels, and that is the reason why beginners avoid using them.

However, the technology is developing, and modern baitcasting reels are constructed in a way to reduce that.

Breaking system is there to slow down the spool while casting. Otherwise, the lure would slow down and the spool would keep turning.

There are different types of braking systems.

Magnetic ones use magnets to slow down the spool. You can make adjustments yourself.

Centrifugal ones use friction. To adjust it, use the pins by pushing them outwards.

Some reels even have two types of braking system. Magnetic one is great for beginners because it does not rely so much on an angler to operate.

Are Baitcasting Reels Good for Beginners?

Well, this depends. Anglers usually start with spincasting or spinning reels, to gain experience, learn different fishing techniques and learn how to handle the equipment.

Of course, at some point, you will “upgrade” to baitcasting reels. Even if you had a lot of experience before, you will still be a beginner when it comes to baitcasting reels.

However, if you know a lot about fishing, you will have just one task, and that is to practice with the reel.

If you have no fishing experience, learning about all the aspects of fishing, together with a baitcasting reel, may not be the best ide, because it is a bit too much. You will be frustrated and ruin the experience. However, if you are willing to take this step, don’t let my opinion stop you, although, I do not recommend it.

What’s the Best Gear Ratio for Baitcasting Reels?

All of the gear ratios have their advantages and disadvantages.

However, very fast and slow reels are made to be used in specific situations.

As a beginner, you should go for a medium speed, around 6.4:1.

Those reels can be used for both slower and faster presentations if you slightly adjust your technique, and can be used in numerous situations.

As a beginner, you should go for a medium option, to explore all the possibilities. Later on, you can always buy slower and faster ones, to use them when necessary.

What Lures Should I Use With Baitcasting Reels?

What lures to use depends on a reel gear ratio, fish species you are trying to catch, reel size and other factors, like your fishing rod too. However, I will give you a brief explanation.

You can use a variety of lures, including swimbaits, cranks, bigger worms, a bit larger jigs, crankbaits and many topwater lures too.

The problem is that if you are using very light lures, you may have some troubles with casting as a beginner. These reels are made to be used with heavier fishing lines and lures too.

For some presentations you will need slower reels, like when using crankbaits. Faster reels work great with jigs.

Medium gear ration enables you to use the majority of lures.

What Type of Rod Should I Use With a Baitcasting Reel?

You can’t combine just any rod with a baitcasting reel. Spinning rods are not an option.

Pair your baitcasting reel with a casting rod.

It has a reel seat made for a baitcaster, above the rod. Line guides are also on the upper side, and when fighting a fish, when the rod bends, force is applied down on the guides. If it was the other way around, like on spinning rods, large and powerful fish could break off the guides.

These rods have sturdier guides, and are made in a way to withstand larger fish, heavier lines and rough use.

For What Fish are Baitcasting Reels Used For?

Baitcasting reels are usually used for heavier and powerful fish species. Of course, you can use smaller models for smaller fish, but handling these reels and rods with light lures and lines is complicated. If you are fishing for species like panfish, use a spinning reel instead.

Baitcasters are mostly used for large catfish, large bass, muskies, Northern pike, salmon, and similar species.

Which Brand is Best in Baitcasting Reels?

As I already mentioned, and as I always say when it comes to any kind of fishing gear, buy from reputable manufacturers.

The rest is up to you and your personal needs. You may prefer one brand over another; however, all of these mentioned are known for their quality product.

Of course, how good a reel will be, depends on a price too. You can’t expect that an entry level, $40 reel, will last as long as a high-end, couple of hundred-dollar worth reel.

I think that many anglers, including me, would agree that Abu Garcia and KastKing makes really great baitcasting reels.

What are the Other Benefits of Baitcasting Reels?

Besides being able to handle large and powerful fish, baitcasters are extremely precise.

When you learn how to use them, you can cast very accurate, due to better control of the line.

You can also control how the lure falls into the water, so that you do not make a big splash and scare off the fish.

You have a better feeling of the line too, and can detect bites more easily. It also offers cranking power needed for lures with high drag.

And of course, casting of heavier lines and rules can be done much better with a baitcaster.

Conclusion

When choosing the best baitcasting reel for beginners, you should be aware of the fact that …

… it will take some time to learn how to use it, and you should choose models from a lower price range, with medium gear ratio, to gain some experience.

All of the reels mentioned here are quite good, and you will not go wrong with them.

Also, keep in mind that low-profile models are easier to use, and although backlashes will happen, it won’t be as bad as it could be with a round baitcaster.

Dual braking system is also a good feature, and you should consider all of this, and the features mentioned in the article, to choose the best reel for your needs.

YAKIMA, Wash. – Hunting Washington’s most prized deer can take significant time and effort, not to mention a little bit of luck.

For 27-year-old Jake Fife, it took 16 years to earn an archery tag for one of Yakima County’s most coveted and restricted units, the location of which he asked not be used in this article. So when his early scouting last summer identified a buck bigger than any he’d ever seen before, bringing it home became a single-minded obsession that defined his daily routine.

“Wake up, go to work, think about the deer, get off work, go see the deer,” Fife recalled. “Think more about the deer. Come home, sleep think about the deer. Dream about the deer.”

Those dreams became haunted by a missed opportunity on the opening day of the season, Sept. 1, but nine days later Fife found the perfect chance for redemption. Countless hours of target practice finally paid off when he took down the buck, two weeks before the season ended.

Fife’s elation and pride from his first archery kill along with a full freezer plus plenty for friends from 175 pounds hanging at the meat locker provided enough rewards, but he would earn much more. The buck’s net score of 229 shattered the previous record of 2033/8 for Washington nontypical mule deer, and it won Best-of-Show in the archery category of the Horn and Antler competition at February’s Central Washington Sportsmen Show.

“It was really special due to the fact that I was able to finally get it down with a bow after a lot of failed attempts on other deer and stuff that I ended up never getting,” Fife said. “I feel pretty spoiled, but at the same time, there was a lot of hard work and disappointment before that happened.”

Hunting in his blood

Fife took his first hunter’s safety course to acquire a license at eight years old, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

He initially applied for the unit where he would eventually find his record-breaking buck as 10-year-old, and Fife gained experience hunting elsewhere with his father, Gary Fife. Longtime hunting partner Trevor Dallman met Fife during their freshman year at Selah High and joined him in collecting virtually all of the many deer mounts now hanging from the wall in his east Selah home.

“We started off pretty young and just kind of going together and before you know it, we just hunted well together and started having good success,” Dallman said. “Mostly deer, elk and waterfowl.”

Fife learned to hunt with rifles and muzzleloaders before finally picking up a bow a little more than three years ago. He worked hard to gain confidence and skill with his Bowtech Carbon Knight, learning how to factor in the wind and hide well enough to creep within range of a potential target. Dallman said the Naches Valley head baseball coach and P.E. teacher has always had the “eagle eye” for finding the biggest game animals, including a memorable one that got away after a close call a couple years ago.

So when Fife sent Dallman a picture of an even more massive buck, Dallman quickly agreed to be a spotter and help out however he could. That meant tagging along whenever possible, and he heard plenty of stories from days when he couldn’t make it out to join his friend.

“He’s just so dedicated, I knew he wasn’t going to go for anything else,” Dallman said. “There was multiple other bucks when he got this one that were, at any other time, ‘wow, that’s a huge buck.’”

As one of two hunters selected in late June for an archery tag on a unit known for old, large bucks, Fife found his ultimate goal after several days of scouting about three weeks before the season opened. He tried to track the buck for about six hours daily on the weekends and two to three during the week, totaling well over 50 hours.

Finding trends proved more difficult than expected as the buck wandered around to different trails, bedding down and drinking water at multiple spots. Fife figured the deer’s tendency to stay in the general area would give him a good chance, though he couldn’t imagine just how soon it would come.

Taking down a “giant”

Fife didn’t sleep much the night before he began his hunt for the buck he referred to as a “giant” in a blog post for Northwest Sportsman magazine last October.

He woke up early and shortly after the sun rose saw a shocking sight — the buck of his dreams all alone. Fife carefully worked his way to within 70 yards of the patch of sage where he believed the deer was resting, only to see it stand up 30 yards away, then bolt upon seeing a disturbance so close.

“He didn’t stop to look back to see what I was,” Fife said. “I watched him go over one ridge and then go over another ridge and then go over another ridge. I was like ‘oh my god’ and then he never came out of that one, a big canyon, so I knew he was around.”

Nerves engulfed Fife even more than before following the close encounter, but he remained patient, waiting for the ideal moment. He saw the buck out in the open and with others over the next few days, including on a couple when the unit was closed, choosing to keep his distance rather than risk another failed stalk.

Finally, on Sunday, Sept. 10, Fife discovered the buck behind a large patch of brush and watched it feed while darkening up its horns by rubbing them on and off for about two and a half hours. He also called Dallman, who went out to spot for his friend as quickly as possible on another beautiful, sunny morning.

“Pretty much I had a perfect view,” Dallman said. “You could drive this road up on this hill and I could see everything.”

He watched as Fife slowly and methodically crept towards the bottom of the draw, eventually taking off his shoes and crawling on hands and knees through cheatgrass and stickers. He eventually settled into a spot about 40 yards away, behind a bush enough to be hidden from the deer, with a slight, steady breeze blowing into his face.

But as Fife partially stood up, awkwardly off-balance, waiting for the deer to stand and turn around, he felt his bow jump a bit and realized he needed a more comfortable position. So he immediately pulled back the string, stepped up and through the bush, then when the buck got up, locked eyes, and stomped his foot down, Fife let his arrow fly.

“It just went right through him, just disappeared,” Fife said. “It happened so fast I was just like — I knew I seen that I hit him but it didn’t make much sound or anything.”

An anxious hour

Doubts about what looked like a perfect shot crept into Fife’s mind after he watched the buck sprint away at full speed, and a phone call to Dallman only confirmed those fears.

From the road, he’d seen the buck tear off through the plain at full speed showing no signs of injury, then eventually slow down before it headed into some bushes and disappeared. Fife couldn’t find any traces of blood — or his arrow — so he decided to wait an hour until about 12:30 p.m. to begin a thorough search.

Dallman directed Fife to the bushes, and there it was, a buck even bigger and more incredible than he’d seen at a distance or in his pictures. Dallman and a game warden who watched the hunt helped Fife back to the truck with his price, which he estimates weighed about 300 pounds.

The success garnered Fife plenty of attention and opportunities to tell his story to fellow hunters, but he insists the high score isn’t really important to him. He’s hoping a full mount will be done by the end of the summer, and he’ll always have some unforgettable memories.

“Not even just to get him, but to be able to hunt a deer of that caliber was pretty cool,” Fife said. “Who knows if it’ll ever happen again? It might not.”

Anyone who’s ever tried Chesapeake Bay Fishing has almost certainly stumbled into a tackle store to grab some lures at one time or another, and struggled to pick which colors to go with. With a million different variations from white to nuclear chicken, picking out which colors to keep stocked in your box is no easy task and there is no magic color that will work in all conditions. So, let’s cover all the basic necessities as well as when each has its place. Regardless of what species you are fishing for, the same rules apply.

First let’s talk about how the time of day and water clarity play a role in color selection. Think of clarity as a spectrum with two main categories: clear and muddy. For clear water, natural patterns will work the best since the fish have the ability to really focus on the bait. Green pumpkin is a good natural color to imitate bluegill and crawfish. White is a good color to imitate shad and bunker. Transparent and ghost patterns also work well in clear water. For muddy water, fluorescent and dark colors stand out the best. Another effective tactic particularly for muddy water is adding contrast by using a different color skirt or dipping the tail of your baits in scented dyes. Using scents such as Pro-Cure or choosing abladed lure that sends out vibrations can also be to your advantage in the muddy water because it can help fish find your lure.

“Match the hatch” is a term you have likely heard before, and it simply means picking a lure that is similar in shape, size, and color to what the fish are feeding on. The best way to figure out what fish are feeding on is to take into account what baitfish and crustaceans live in the body of water you’re fishing, as well as paying close attention to the fish you catch. Sometimes fish will regurgitate their stomach contents when caught, which is an easy indicator of what the fish are eating. You may also notice things like bluegill tails or crawfish antennae sticking out of a fish’s gut. The majority of the time, however, it is just guesswork until you find a pattern.

The basic rule of thumb is to pick colors that best match what’s abundant in the watershed you are fishing. For instance, a pond with lots of bluegill will mean that green pumpkin and bluegill patterns will work best when targeting bass, and a lake with lots of shad will result in white patterns working well. One final note about matching the hatch: the forage fish will shift throughout the seasons as abundance changes.

When fishing in low light conditions and at night, resort to black, blue, and purple because they will be the most visible. (Bonus tip: when fishing in low light conditions use baits that give off lots of vibration and sound to help fish key in on them).

The exception to the previous rules is when trying to trigger a reaction strike from fish on beds or fish protecting fry. When bed fishing for bass or snakehead, you want your bait to aggravate the fish and make it strike out of aggression. The two best patterns for this are bluegill shades, because bluegill often get chased off beds for trying to eat eggs or fry, and solid white baits because they are good for sight fishing when trying to maintain contact with a bed.

When it comes to stocking your tackle box, the best way to make sure you are prepared for any condition is to keep a few simple patterns at all times. For bass and snakehead baits try and keep a more natural pattern like green pumpkin or white and a dark pattern of each of your favorite baits. That is the bare minimum, so feel free to snag any of your personal favorite color schemes as well. For saltwater soft plastics, especially on the Bay, the majority of baitfish can be imitated using white lures. So, try and keep a white pattern for clear and stained water and a chartreuse pattern for green water. For saltwater hard-baits you can keep it simple with a few chrome lures, white, and if you are into night fishing, some black or dark purple.

Finally, always remember that feeding patterns and environmental conditions are constantly changing so although a specific color may work one day, it may not be the ticket a few weeks later. Don’t be afraid to play around with colors until you find something that works.

Bonus Tip: Match the Patch

An easy rule of thumb to remember is to match lure color with water color. Simply look out at a patch of water, and choose accordingly. In clear water, white’s a good pick; in green water, chartreuse works well; in muddy water, root beer is a good option. Match the patch, and you have a solid starting point to work from.

Bonus Tip: Depth Charge

Remember that depth affects lure color, because colors fade as you go deeper into the water column. Reds begin to disappear just a few feet down, take on a whitish hue, and are completely gone at 15 feet. Oranges and yellows disappear next, followed by greens, and then finally blues. So an orange and red plastic with a white skirt may offer great color contrast when you hold it in your hand, but if you’re letting it sink to 20 feet then bouncing bottom, the contrast level is near zero.

-By Ian Rubin

If you’re unsure of the difference between First and Second Focal Plane optics, checkout this podcast to learn more.)

FFP can get you a huge edge in competition, on some hunts, and on the field of battle. It can make you faster at longer distances and give you the ability to transition between targets of varying distance with speed and precision. FFP is freaking awesome. But it’s not always better.

Here are a few reasons to think twice before going FFP, and a few reasons why it might be right for you:

Optics. We love optical quality, so we’ll quickly address this first. When looking at the same scope (same family, same mag range, same everything else) available in SFP or FFP, there will be no discernable difference in optical quality between the SFP and FFP model. None.

Cost. Again, all else similar and only looking at SFP vs FFP in the same scope, the SFP version will always be less expensive. If cost is one of your major concerns, an SFP may be the way to go.

The manufacturing process behind getting the FFP reticle—which is almost always going to be glass-etched—in its position on the front of the erector unit, which sits way down inside the scope, and aligning it properly is far more involved than the process of installing an SFP reticle. A tougher scope to make means a more expensive scope in the end.

Tons of people don’t need it. This is the big one. FFP allows a shooter to engage targets and use all the hashmarks and/or grids of their technical reticle at any magnification. This is primarily useful when you find yourself on the clock in the heat of competition, or perhaps in combat. In these settings, you don’t necessarily have the time to dial your turrets (which would allow you to just shoot using the center crosshair on any magnification) or you don’t have time to make sure you are on a calibrated magnification to use those features, like you would in an SFP scope.

Most people we work with head to the range, sit down—not being timed on a clock or shot at—dial their shot into their turrets, and shoot off the center reticle all day. This is the perfect case for an SFP scope. Should someone want to use their reticle for spotting a friend, they can just dial up their image to the scope’s calibrated magnification level and use the hashmarks in the reticle to call shots. (This is usually the highest magnification, where the reticle and image are at the same scale.)

Many hunters don’t need FFP. There are some cases where FFP may help hunters. For example, when in hilly or mountainous country where you may come over a crest or a ridge to find your quarry suddenly right there in front of you, ready for the taking. You probably don’t have the time to dial a shot or change your magnification, so the FFP scope would allow you to make a quick holdover and execute the shot without any trouble.

That said, FFP has one big flaw for low-light hunters that might be hunting in thick timber or brush: The reticle on the lowest magnification in an FFP scope (which is also the magnification that provides best low-light performance) is often so tiny you can hardly see it. Unless the scope is illuminated, the chances of you picking out that tiny little thing and making a good shot in those conditions are low. Many people prefer the SFP scope because, even when they have it on the lowest magnification, the reticle remains its normal size, more visible in the brush or timber, especially in low light.

Where having an FFP is handy. You can do it, but you’ll likely be frustrated if you head to a PRS match with an SFP scope and try to compete at the level of some of the top competitors. Any other similar situation where you may find yourself executing shots at varying distances and in short order, the FFP riflescope is the way to go. Imagine shooting a target at 100 yards, then finding and engaging a 500-yard target, then an 800-yard target, then back to 300. The person with FFP will choose a magnification—almost never the highest mag, and probably somewhere down in the lower half of the mag range—and just sit there with it, taking full advantage of the larger field of view for finding and transitioning between targets, and engage all the targets quickly without having to touch the mag ring.

They may use the turrets, but they’ll likely use their reticle to hold over, or to make quick follow up shots and corrections after spotting their own misses. Meanwhile, the person with SFP is either dialing all over the place, or cranking their mag ring up to use their reticle, then cranking it back down after engaging the target to zoom out and find the next target…

You can often get the same exact scope more affordably if you just want to shoot at the range and dial your turrets to shoot off the center crosshair. Most casual shooters almost never use FFP to its fullest. Hunters in low light, thick timber, or heavy brush that utilize the lowest mag on their riflescope a lot usually don’t like how tiny the FFP reticle appears when the scope is on the lowest mag and prefer SFP.

But, if you shoot competition, trust your life to your optic, or hunt in the right places, FFP can give you a huge edge.

If you want to take a deep dive into riflescopes to help figure out which one is right for you, check out this podcast covering everything you ever wanted to know about riflescopes.

Looking to learn more about long-range optic selection? Check out this 10-minute talk.

It’s our hope you can learn and laugh along with the expert voices we feature on this blog. We want to be clear that the opinions you see featured here are just that: opinions. The content belongs to the authors and is not necessarily the opinion of Vortex Optics.

To learn more about what you’ve read, please like, follow, and otherwise support our authors.

When it comes to finding the best air rifle for shooting rabbits, there are lots of models available on the market. Here’s a selection of the best, featuring options for both beginners and experienced shooters.

Pellpax Storm X Deluxe Kit

If you consider yourself a novice rabbit shooter, this is the perfect rifle for you.

It’s easy to use and comes with an array of features that are ideal for shooting small pests. These include a muzzle energy of between 11 and 12ft/lb and ornately textured grips for a secure hold. And let’s not forget its good-quality scope.

With rabbits mostly active at dawn or dusk, you need a rifle with a large lens scope for a greater range of vision. That’s why the Storm X Deluxe Kit includes a 3-9×50 scope, which fits the bill for rabbit shooting. It also comes with a screw-on silencer, which comes in handy when you’re trying to avoid spooking other rabbits in the area.

Weihrauch HW77K

This is considered by many to be the best air rifle for shooting rabbits, due to its power and accuracy.

If you’ve been struggling to hit rabbits from a long distance, the Weihrauch HW77K will help you overcome this issue. It’s incredibly accurate and has low recoil, making it a popular choice for pest control and target shooters. The trigger is also extremely precise, giving you extra control of your shot placement.

The Weihrauch HW77K comes in 4 calibres – .177, .20, .22 and .25 calibres. The.22 is widely regarded as the best option for rabbit shooting, as it has a good “smacking power” and is therefore ideal for achieving a clean kill. There are also more pellets available for this calibre, giving you a wider range of options.

Air Arms S410

This is one of the most reliable air rifles on the market. It has a classic style, impressive accuracy and a multi-shot format. As such, it can be used by both experienced and novice rabbit shooters.

The rifle also comes with a 10-shot magazine, meaning you won’t have to worry about buying pellets before you head out on a hunt.

Check out the below review of the Air Arms S410 and watch it in action. As the reviewer says at the end of the video – if you can pick one of these up, you’re onto a winner.

BSA Lightning XL SE Tactical

This rifle is popular among sporting shooters due to its durable, all-weather design. It also has a polymer coating, making it very comfortable to hold and easy to grip. So, if you’re planning on going rabbit hunting in a variety of weather conditions, this is the air rifle for you.

Part of the BSA family, the BSA Lightning XL SE Tactical has a fully adjustable trigger and strong build quality. Another of its standout features is the legendary cold hammer forged barrels that BSA air rifles are famous for. This ensures power, accuracy and a great all-round gun.

Gamo Varmint Stalker Deluxe

There’s very little not to like about the Varmint Stalker Deluxe. At £169, it’s one of the best value air rifles around, and you get a lot for your money.

This gun is both powerful and accurate, which is ideal when you’re targeting a rabbit in the distance. It’s capable of firing .177 calibre pellets with a 1250 feet per second velocity and has a very smooth trigger. What’s more, its custom trigger design makes it highly durable in a wide range of scenarios.

It also has a high-quality black synthetic stock with rubber inserts for better handling, making it a great option for all-round shooting.

Specialist shooting equipment insurance from Ripe Shooting

If you do decide to purchase a new air rifle, you may want to consider specialist insurance to protect it. After all, the last thing you want is to pay huge sums of money if your air rifle is damaged, lost or stolen.

Here at Ripe Shooting, we arrange cover that ensures that your kit is completely protected should the worst happen. Get an instant online quote today.