Few things in fishing are more exciting than watching a muskie suddenly appear like a great white shark stalking your surface lure. It’s even more heart-stopping when the monster opens its mouth and engulfs it. Unfortunately, many muskie anglers are of the mistaken belief that, while thrilling to use, topwater lures are low-percentage options and highly situational.

Not so, says renowned Ottawa River muskie guide John Anderson, legendary muskie guru Dick Pearson, and Lake of the Woods muskie stalker Darcy Cox. There’s almost never a time, nor a situation, when the trio won’t throw a surface bait. It’s why they’re topwater trendsetters.

“If an angler only threw surface baits, they would catch fewer fish, but they would be much bigger,” says Anderson, who owns the Ottawa River Muskie Factory. Pearson, on the other hand, has seen it all during his time on the water, pioneering muskie tactics through the heydays of the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. He attributes much of today’s topwater skepticism to times past, when lure selection was limited and hooking percentage poor.

“Many in my era tried it, but quit,” Pearson says. “I can remember having multiple blow-ups and losing fish after fish on early versions of the Mud Puppy and Arbogast Muskie Jitterbug. Today, however, I haven’t found a surface bait I don’t like. The variety is amazing.”

Cox, ironically, fell head over heels for surface lures, taking the fast lane to the top of the water column after reading an article penned by Pearson in In-Fisherman magazine. “It opened my eyes as to how versatile topwater lures can be for muskies,” says Cox, whose Tank Industry Guide Service has a waiting list of guests. “I was throwing Globes in 2-foot waves and using prop baits and walk-the-dog-style surface lures in sunny conditions, which is counter to what we’re taught. I think the word is getting out now, as more muskie anglers are discovering how deadly surface baits can be.”

THE ULTIMATE EDGE

“My transition to taking muskies on topwater was gradual,” recalls Pearson, who’s also an avid hunter. “I began looking at muskies the same way I look at whitetail deer — as creatures of edges. That’s when the importance of the surface became more apparent. I regard it now as the ultimate edge. The place where two worlds collide. The place where oxygen, temperature, wind, sound, and visibility have their greatest variations and consequences.

“There were eureka moments, as well,” he says. “The first evening I ever threw a Top Raider, for instance, I boated four nice fish. Another time, in the 1980s, I threw the first Jackpots in rollers on Lac Seul and boated five big muskies in one day.” While Anderson, Pearson, and Cox won’t hesitate to present a surface bait around any piece of structure or cover, or in any weather or water conditions, they concede that they’ve isolated a range of locations and conditions where the lures excel.

“Project Noble Beast is my bible,” Anderson says, referring to Sean Landsman’s groundbreaking telemetry research on the Ottawa River. “It showed how devoted muskies are throughout the season to specific shallow structures like rocky shoals and dense weedbeds. When you understand how dedicated the fish are to specific locations, you realize why you need to enter waypoints on every spot you raise a big fish.

“You can make a living casting topwaters at sunset. I use them in the morning, as well, but the evening is universally more productive, especially in July and August. Throwing topwaters at sunset in mid-summer is a great big-fish strategy,” he says.

Spotting shallow cover, especially associated with vegetation, also persuades Cox to drop whatever rod he’s holding and quickly grab one rigged with a topwater lure. “I’ve found that surface baits work well on sunny, warm days immediately following a cold front,” he says. “I often find muskies in as little as 6 inches of water during the warm-up. They don’t want to go out deep to chase food.

“The first couple of weeks after the muskie season opens is a great time to use topwaters. Fish are shallow, soaking up the heat, so a topwater is the perfect lure to use where the fish feel most comfortable.” Pearson agrees. “In summer, calm, warm mornings and evenings are best around shallow structures with submergent vegetation and reeds,” he says.

“But topwaters are often my bait of choice on Opening Day, as well. Warming water is much better, in my opinion, than cooling water.”

GOOD VIBRATIONS

Listen to Anderson, Pearson, and Cox talk about topwaters and you frequently hear about noise, vibration, and water displacement. “Part of the collision factor I mentioned earlier,” Pearson says, “are noise and visual disturbance. It’s like an escaping mouse triggering a cat. Sound is very important. You’re tickling their lateral lines with good vibrations.

“The deep pop produced by a Fat Bastard in the wind may be key one time, while a light pop, or as I like to say, the pitter-patter of little feet, works better another time. In a walk-the-dog-style bait, a Jackpot may work, but then the whoosh of a Weagle outfishes it. Similarly, I’ve seen times when tinkling a flaptail is unbeatable and then, for no reason, the waddling plop-plop of a Creeper shines. You have to think about the different sound options and vary them regularly.”

While Cox also pays attention to the different sounds surface baits make, he’s even more fixated on their vibrations, likening the pulse patterns to the big double-bladed bucktails that have taken the muskie world by storm. “The bigger the vibration radius, the more muskies you can call in with a surface bait,” Cox says. “That’s why #10 bucktails changed the game. Nothing matches their ‘call radius.’ It’s the same with topwater baits.

“Sometimes, however, a call radius isn’t required. If you’re casting to a spot where you know a muskie is positioned, the silent treatment may entice a fish that’s wary of the unnatural clatter from rattles. That’s why I tend to throw noisy topwaters when I’m searching for muskies, switching to quieter surface baits when I return to a fish I raised earlier, or when working high-percentage water.”

Anderson, on the other hand, believes that fish in general, and muskies in particular, pattern sound more easily than they do sight. And he’s convinced it extends beyond the timbre or tone of your lure, to include things like your electric trolling motor and sonar.

“I was involved in a sturgeon tagging study on the St. Lawrence River, and we couldn’t approach a tagged fish when the water pump was running,” Anderson says. “It wasn’t noisy, but it had a distinct resonance that the biologist in charge of the study said the fish had learned to identify. As soon as we turned off the pump, we could drive right up to them.”

After being involved in that project and studying how muskies react to various surface sounds, Anderson is convinced that they’ve become conditioned to avoid many popular lures. “I’m throwing much bigger surface lures these days,” he says. “Lures like the Big Mama, Dirdy B, and Twisted Sis’tr offer a larger visual profile, but beyond that, they make a different noise and throw more water. The Top Raider is a great lure, but most muskies have seen and heard it so many times I’m certain they’ve learned to avoid it.”

FAST & ERRATIC OR SLOW & STRAIGHT?

This also applies to walker-style lures. Anderson says you typically raise more fish with lures that sashay back and forth erratically, but you put more in the boat with baits that run straight ahead. “Muskies don’t miss topwater lures by mistake,” he says. “It’s never an accident. So, if you’re seeing fish, or having them boil on your bait, it’s because you’re doing something they don’t want you to do. Usually it’s the speed of your retrieve.

“Most muskie anglers have two retrieve speeds: fast and really fast. I have so many people in the boat with me each season that I get to study them carefully. It has taught me that retrieving surface baits slowly is essential most of the time. I typically crawl them along, retrieving them ever slower, certainly slower than other lure types.”

While Cox differs slightly from Anderson in his fondness for walk-the-dog style topwaters, he agrees that a lingering retrieve is almost always better than a rapid one. “Walk-the-dog-style topwaters are slow-moving lures,” Cox says. “You want to make them act wounded. They’re in the right position above the fishes’ heads so they can see them from different depths and directions. A lazy muskie can cruise up, slowly make the decision to eat, then attack with minimal effort and a high chance of success.”

GO FIGURE

No lure is perfect, and while surface baits come with little baggage, they’re not without warts. The biggest is when you spot a muskie trailing your lure. Surface lures are the most difficult to work at the side of the boat when you’re trying to entice a reluctant fish to bite.

“If I spot a muskie following my surface bait, I try to duck down and hide,” Pearson says. “I change the retrieve speed if time permits. I also move my rod tip and try to change the lure’s direction. But usually you’re faced with two choices: Either stop the lure in its tracks, or take it under and go into a figure-eight or circle.

“Stopping works, although most muskie anglers are hesitant to try it. I have film of me catching a 50-inch fish after stopping a walk-the-dog style topwater. You can see the fish rise up slowly and take it down like a bobber. If I go into a figure-eight, however, I almost always pull the topwater under, hoping that I can continue its action and in doing so, create a trail of bubbles.”

TOPWATER ACES UP THEIR SLEEVES

Being smitten with surface baits means Anderson, Pearson, and Cox have their fair share of aces up their sleeves. Pearson, for example, likes walker-style lures over deep water whenever he spots suspended balls of bait, especially ciscoes, in the upper part of the water column. And he won’t hesitate to fish these lures in rollers when a storm is approaching.

Anderson, however, rarely leads with a surface bait, typically starting each day with muskie-size jerkbait, glidebait, softbait, or bladebait. “But if I can’t seal the deal, I use a surface lure,” he says. “They’re the best clean-up bait you can tie on.”

Cox likes to fish the most unlikely spots, a foot or less of clear water, at the most dubious time, mid-day, under bright sun. “On opening day last year, I was sight-fishing on a sandflat in one foot of water when I spotted a gorgeous muskie,” he says. “My guest made a cast and the wake was Godzilla-like. The strike on the figure-eight was classic, and the ensuing fight a masterpiece. The fish measured 51.5 inches and we watched the whole show, from start to finish, on a flat-calm, blue-sky, sunny day. You have to love throwing surface baits for muskies.”

*In-Fisherman Field Editor Gord Pyzer is a former Ontario natural resource manager and National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame inductee. He lives in Kenora, Ontario.

Are you tired of suffering from hearing loss after a day at the shooting range or while working in a loud environment? Hearing protection is crucial to prevent permanent damage to your ears. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

Two popular brands in the hearing protection industry are AXIL and Walkers. Both offer a range of products that cater to different needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll compare the features and benefits of AXIL and Walker’s hearing protection to help you decide which brand to choose.

So, whether you’re a hunter, shooter, or work in a noisy environment, read on to find out which brand offers the best hearing protection for you.

Walker’s vs AXIL Hearing Protection

Walker’s and Axil are both well-regarded brands in the field of hearing protection, each with its own set of unique strengths, product offerings, and user experiences, making them some of the best ear protectors for shooting on the market today.

AXIL Hearing Protection Brand

AXIL, a merger of SportEAR and Harris Hearing Group, has a history of over 60 years, specializing in the design and production of hearing protection devices. The family-owned company offers FDA-cleared products designed and engineered in the United States, focusing on enhancing and protecting hearing abilities.

AXIL’s strengths lie in its range of products, including earbuds, earmuffs, and earplugs, their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer-oriented features such as an online clinic-based hearing test, a 1-year warranty, and free shipping on orders over $50.

Walker’s Hearing Protection Brand

On the other hand, Walker’s specializes in hearing protection with various products tailored to different needs.

Their strengths lie in the excellent amplification of voices their products offer, the comfortable user experience, and the provision of different types of amplification. However, some products can be uncomfortable for extended wear.

We are going to look at one comparable set of earmuffs and Bluetooth shooting earplugs from each brand; the comparisons are;

• Axil Trackr vs Walker’s Razor Slim
• Walker’s Silencer BT 2.0 vs Axil GS Extreme

When evaluating these hearing protection devices, we examined the effectiveness of noise reduction, sound amplification, comfort, and durability. For AXIL and Walker’s, customers also value device features such as Bluetooth connectivity and volume control, battery life, and the ability to withstand different environmental conditions. A similar brand to Axil and Walker’s is Pro Ears; read our comparison.

Axil Trackr vs Walker Razor Earmuffs

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)

When comparing the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR), the Axil Trackr Earmuffs outperform the Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs. The standard Axil Trackr Earmuffs model has an NRR of 25 dB, which indicates that it can reduce ambient noise by up to 25 dB. On the other hand, the Trackr BLU model goes even further with an NRR of 27 dB, thereby providing a higher level of noise reduction.

The Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs have an NRR of 23 dB. While this is a commendable rating, it falls slightly short of the noise reduction the Axil Trackr Earmuffs offers. However, this difference could be meaningful, especially in environments with high noise levels.

Noise Cancellation and Sound Reproduction

The Axil Trackr and Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs have advanced sound technologies. The Axil Trackr Earmuffs utilize sound-activated compression technology with a rapid reaction time, allowing the earmuffs to reduce loud noises instantly. They also have two directional microphones and high-fidelity speakers for clear, natural sound reproduction.

On the other hand, Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs uses active noise cancellation technology that selectively filters out harmful noise like gunfire while enabling clear communication. Furthermore, the omnidirectional microphones and speakers enhance the perception of sound direction, which can be a significant advantage in some situations.

Check out how Walker’s compares to Howard Leight in noise cancellation.

Design

In terms of design, the Axil Trackr Earmuffs feature a compact and slimline construction that is lightweight and portable. This model also includes a comfortable headband with a sturdy metal wire frame. Moreover, the earmuffs are sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor usage and in various weather conditions.

Contrastingly, the Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs are characterized by their well-built and durable design. These earmuffs feature thin ear cups to minimize the bulkiness and an adjustable headband for a personalized fit. Furthermore, they are designed with comfortable ear padding to enhance the user’s comfort during prolonged usage.

Comfort

For comfort, the Axil Trackr Earmuffs have been highly praised. Their slimline design ensures minimal pressure on the ears, which is crucial for users needing to wear the earmuffs for extended periods. Furthermore, the adjustable headband and cushioned ear pads contribute to the overall comfort.

While the Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs are also designed with comfort in mind, the over-ear design may not be ideal for all users. For example, some shooters might find them too large or bulky, although the adjustable headband and comfortable ear padding are appreciated features.

Extra Features

The Axil Trackr Earmuffs are packed with several extra features. One standout feature is the audio input jack, which allows users to connect an external audio device. Additionally, these earmuffs have separate volume controls for hearing amplification and Bluetooth audio, providing a more customizable experience for the user.

Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs also offer additional features like an audio jack for connecting external devices. Furthermore, they provide adjustable volume settings through a conveniently placed volume knob, allowing users to adjust the sound level easily and quickly.

Bluetooth

The Trackr BLU model from Axil leaps the wireless technology department by offering Bluetooth connectivity. This feature facilitates audio playback and hands-free communication, allowing users to stay connected even in noisy environments.

As the latest product line, Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs has a model with Bluetooth capabilities. Before this, the lack of wireless connectivity might have limited the versatility and convenience, but now they are easily compared to the Axil Trackr BLU model. Now, they are both great Bluetooth ear muffs for mowing.

AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 vs Walkers Silencer Earplugs

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) and Noise Cancellation

The Walker’s Silencer Earbuds have a respectable noise reduction rating (NRR) of 25dB for the first model and 23dB for the rechargeable second model. They provide significant protection from harmful noise levels, vital for settings with loud, sudden noises, such as shooting ranges. In contrast, AXIL’s GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds demonstrate an impressive NRR of 29dB, reflecting a higher level of noise attenuation compared to the Walker’s Silencer.

As for noise cancellation, both Walker’s Silencer and AXIL’s GS Extreme 2.0 implement an active approach. Walker’s Silencer offers multiple audio modes to suit the ambient environment, and the AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 uses sound compression technology for noise cancellation. However, despite both being effective in noise cancellation capabilities, the AXIL GS Extreme 2.0’s higher NRR could indicate better overall noise protection.

Sound Reproduction

Sound reproduction is crucial in hearing protection earbuds, particularly for those hard of hearing. The Walker’s Silencer earbuds utilize omnidirectional microphones, providing excellent sound reproduction and allowing users to hear ambient sounds clearly. On the other hand, AXIL’s GS Extreme 2.0 also offers audio enhancement features, aiding those with hearing difficulties.

Both products provide the option to amplify quieter sounds while protecting against louder, potentially harmful noises. However, while both models are praised for their sound reproduction capabilities, personal preference will likely play a significant role in choosing one.

Design and Comfort

Design and comfort significantly impact the usability of earbuds. Walker’s Silencer earbuds are praised for their comfort and customizable fit, and they come with different foam tip sizes for added convenience. These earbuds are lightweight and accompanied by a durable charging case. Similarly, the AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds also offer different earplug sizes and styles, ensuring a comfortable fit for various users. In addition, they have Sportfit ear hooks for improved retention and a compact size that adds to portability and comfort.

Each product has taken steps to ensure comfort and a good fit. However, some users might find wires on the AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds bothersome, even though it aids in keeping them together and reduces the chance of loss. Others might prefer the completely wireless design of the Walker’s Silencer earbuds.

Extra Features and Bluetooth Capability

Both earbuds offer additional features to enhance user experience. The Walker’s Silencer earbuds have a Bluetooth variant, Silencer BT, offering voice prompts and four distinct sound profiles. In addition, their application provides a customizable user interface, though some users have reported issues with it. The AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 also provides Bluetooth connectivity, volume controls, and audio enhancement features. However, some users have mentioned a slight hissing sound and sensitivity to user voice as potential drawbacks.

Overall, both the Walker’s Silencer earbuds and the AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds offer many features, ensuring user needs are met. However, personal preference and specific requirements might dictate the choice between the two, given the slight differences in characteristics and user experience.

AXIL XCOR vs Walker’s Disrupter

The Axil XCOR and Walker’s Disruptor earbuds both serve as advanced hearing protection devices with additional features for an enhanced auditory experience, but they differ in several key aspects.

The Axil XCOR offers a Single Number Rating (SNR) of 29 dB, with the ability to vary between 19-29 dB depending on the ear tip used. It features Digital Hearing Protection that compresses noises over 85dB, such as gunfire, to protect hearing while allowing ambient sounds to be heard. The XCOR also supports Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls, touch control, USB-C charging, and boasts a water and dust-resistant design. Battery life ranges up to 12 hours for Hear Control only, 6 hours for Bluetooth Audio only, and 4 hours for both.

Walker’s Disruptor, on the other hand, has a 24dB noise reduction rating and includes features such as Bluetooth, a rechargeable USB-C case, and a comprehensive set of listening modes. It offers Forward Focus Mode to prioritize sounds in front of the user, 360° Directional Sound with four microphones for true spatial awareness, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for reducing background noise, and Rapid Impulse Cancellation for immediate reaction to harmful noise levels. The Disruptor also pairs with a smartphone app for customizable settings.

In summary, while both products aim to provide hearing protection and enhancement, the Axil XCOR focuses on tactical use with a higher SNR and robust design, whereas Walker’s Disruptor emphasizes situational awareness and customizable sound experiences through its app and various listening modes.

AXIL vs Walker: Which is Better?

After a comprehensive comparison of the two most popular earmuff and earplug models from AXIL and Walker’s, it becomes apparent that both brands deliver high-quality, effective products tailored toward meeting diverse user needs. In addition, both companies have showcased their expertise in providing noise protection, sound reproduction, comfort, and extra features. Another notable comparison is Walkers vs Peltor hearing protection.

AXIL’s GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds and Tracker earmuffs provide impressive noise reduction ratings and sound reproduction, aiding hearing protection and enhancement. In addition, their Bluetooth capabilities, customizable fit, and additional features like volume controls speak volumes about AXIL’s dedication to providing a comprehensive hearing protection solution.

On the other hand, Walker’s Silencer earbuds and Razor earmuffs offer a slightly lower noise reduction rating but excellent sound reproduction and noise cancellation capabilities. Their commitment to comfort is seen in their customizable fit and design choices. The Silencer BT model offers four distinct sound profiles and Bluetooth connectivity for convenience. Walker also has Game Ears hearing aids.

Choosing between AXIL and Walker’s depends on your needs and personal preferences. For example, if the highest level of noise reduction is a priority, AXIL might be the better choice. However, if a completely wireless design and a more comprehensive range of sound profiles are more important to you, Walker’s could be a better fit.

In conclusion, AXIL and Walker’s produce reliable, high-quality hearing protection. It’s recommended to try both brands, evaluate them based on your personal needs, and then make an informed decision. Each brand has unique strengths and areas of specialization, providing diverse options for those seeking superior hearing protection.

How to Choose the Best Ham Radio Base Station – Buyers Guide

Getting a good ham radio base station goes beyond searching for the top ones on the market. While that’s a great place to start, there are still other important factors to consider.From power output and receiver sensitivity to antenna options and digital enhancements, here’s what you should look out for when purchasing the best ham radio base station.

1. Power Output and Receiver Sensitivity

Make sure your ham radio base station has adequate power output and receiver sensitivity to ensure that you get good reception no matter the conditions. The power output should be between 5 -100 watts, and receiver sensitivity should range from 0.2-1 microvolt.

2. Antenna Options

It’s important to consider the type of antenna your ham radio base station is compatible with as antenna options will determine how well your radio performs. Look for the one with a wide frequency range and good gain value to ensure that you get the best performance from your radio.

3. Digital Enhancements

The latest ham radio base stations come with digital enhancements such as automatic notch filters, dual receivers, and noise blanking capabilities to improve user experience. Look for radio with these features for better performance.

4. Price

Compare the prices of different ham radio base stations to ensure that you get the one that fits your budget without compromising on features, performance, or build quality. Getting the best ham radio base station does not mean that you have to pay the most money and get the most expensive one.You are sure to find a great choice within options ranging from low-cost entry-level radios, that cost little money, to more expensive advanced models, so take your time to decide which one suits your needs best rather than have the price factor drive it.

5. Modes and frequency coverage

This is an important feature, as it determines if the radio meets your requirements in terms of band management. Most modern-day radios have multiple capabilities that allow you to transmit on different frequencies and modes.

6. Band and frequency

Ham radio base stations come in a range of frequencies. A single-band radio means it features one option, mostly the two-meter band on 144-148MHz. Double ones are the most common in the market, and they feature both the 2-meter band and 70 cm band. Others feature three or four frequencies.

7. Ease of operation

When buying your first ham radio base station, you want one that is user-friendly and has a short learning curve to navigate and learn how to use it.Evaluate how complex the controls are. Is it something you can learn through a user manual, or do you need some practice before acquiring your own? As a beginner, you can go for a basic radio and learn your way around it before investing in a complex option.

8. Sound clarity

Ensure you get a ham radio base station that has a clear signal and noise cancellation ability. When using a ham radio either receiving or transmitting, you don’t want distortion or signal interference as it could affect how you pass or receive information.

Some radios have an automatic inbuilt antenna that can shift across frequencies, while some need a manual one fixed within proximity. This can potentially affect its sound clarity if you are not able to fix it well, so do your research before purchasing.

9. Software

Preferably, get a radio that comes with the program software cable in the beginning. Some of the best ham radio base stations come with free software, while for others, you have to get it from a third party at a cost.

Check whether your preferred option software must be plugged into a computer to function or manually programmed, which is more applicable to experienced users.

Evaluate whether you need LAN access or not for your chosen radio software to run. For instance, some radios require a laptop to run the software through a LAN connection.

10. Accessories

Most ham radio base stations come in packages that include accessories such as headsets, microphones, and power supplies. Consider additional accessories you may need before making your purchase so that you can be sure all your requirements are met from the start.

So, you have some snapping turtles in your pond and want to get rid of them, huh? Well, you’ve come to the right palace!

In this article we will be exploring why you should get the snapping turtles out of your pond, and what the best and most humane way to do this is.

Keep on reading to find out why these snappy little guys need to go, how you can minimize the risk to yourself, and also to them…

Why would you want to get rid of snapping turtles?

Snapping turtles, as cute as they may look, are actually pretty dangerous! They can enter your garden pond or water feature easily from any neighboring stretches of water. If you live near a river or lake, for example, they could easily make their way to your nice, quiet pond.

The reason they are so dangerous is because of the type of animal they are. They are carnivorous animals which means that they will not think twice about snapping up your ornamental fish.

They have also been known to eat baby ducks, geese, and other waterbirds. So, needless to say, it is best to get rid of them! However, this can be easier said than done, especially since they also carry a huge risk towards humans too.

The bite of a snapping turtle is extremely painful and can cause really serious damage. They are also known to carry the infection known as salmonella, putting you at risk of infection from their bite.

With this in mind, the way you approach these creatures needs to be well planned and executed carefully. Follow our tips to find out how to get rid of snapping turtles.

Check the Regulations in the Local Area

Before you do anything, it is very important that you check the rules and regulations for the area in which you reside. The reason for this is because many local authorities have certain ways of dealing with animals that are a danger.

The authorities will help you in the best ways to trap them, as well as letting you know where you can release them back into the wild. Some locations, for example, may be off-limits due to the carnivorous nature of these animals.

As well as this, some animals may be protected by certain authorities. Your local authority will be able to advise you on how to deal with the snapping turtles, and may even come out to deal with them for you!

Choose Your Humane Trap

Notice the word ‘humane’! This is very important! We have already stated this but we think it is important to remind you again that whilst they are undesirable characters in your pond, they are just animals trying to do the best they can to survive.

The traps that you get to get rid of these turtles should be live traps, meaning that they can be caught with no harm done to them. Usually, you can choose from either floating or non floating traps.

Either is fine but just ensure the non floating trap is positioned on solid ground so the snapping turtle has access to oxygen or else they will drown. Choosing either of these traps will make it far easier to transport them to safety and will minimize the risk of you getting hurt, too.

Choose Your Bait for the Trap

Choosing the right type of bait for your snapping turtle trap is essential. You will need to lure them into the trap, and so you need to choose something that will be attractive to them. Remember, snapping turtles are carnivores!

So, for this reason, you should seek out bait that will appeal to them such as meat or fish. They prefer meat with very strong scents! This allows them to track the bait better. This also means that even if the bait gets wet, the scent will remain strong and will be able to be easily identified by your snapping turtles.

With this in mind, we recommend that you should choose strong-smelling fish, beef, liver, and other animal organs such as kidney. These all have strong scents that not even water could lessen.

Set Up Your Snapping Turtle Trap

Now that you have chosen your trap and bait for the trap, you can set it all up together. It is super important that any bait you use is placed deep enough inside the trap to allow the snapping turtle to get fully inside it. Place the trap in a shallow area, as this is where the turtle is most likely to hunt for food.

If your trap is non floating then you will need to place it so that part of it is out of the water. As such, it will need to be on a bank or partly on the shore.

If you do not do this then the turtle will be trapped without oxygen and will drown.

This should be avoided at all costs since the snapping turtle does not need to be killed in order to get rid of it. It is very important that you deal with your snapping turtle infestation humanely.

Relocate Your Snapping Turtle

When you have finally got your snapping turtles inside the trap, now is the time to relocate them.

As annoying as they are, and as detrimental as they can be to your pond, they are just innocent animals. They are acting on their natural instincts and deserve to be able to live a good life.

You should take them to a safe water source, approved by the local authorities to relocate them. Alternatively, you could ask for advice from the local authorities or even ask them to do this part for you.

You should take extreme care when handling a snapping turtle since their bite is dangerous, and can cause lots of pain and damage. They also have very sharp claws which can easily tear through your skin. Always wear gloves to protect yourself around them.

A lot of people tell me they’re interested in switching their traditional grass lawn over to a clover lawn. Now, a clover lawn could mean you are intentionally adding clover to your lawn, or it could mean you are planting only clover. Usually the people I encounter are considering a lawn made up entirely of clover — no other plants… a monoculture.

When you search Google Images for lawn alternatives you are sure to find some beautiful eye candy showing gorgeous, perfectly uniform lawns made up entirely of microclover, a cultivar of white clover bred to grow to a very short height. The human eye seems to be really attracted to simple, clean, and manicured. They like patterns and uniformity. I’m all for minimalism and simplicity, but nature often is not a fan. Nature wants diversity, chaos, checks and balances.

I think most people find appeal in a clover lawn because it doesn’t need to be mowed. It also would possibly need less watering and fertilizing (though that doesn’t need to be done in a grass lawn either). These points appear at first glance to equate to fewer resources — great! They might also be attracted to the fact that clover simply is not grass, so it’s counter-culture (also wonderful).

But while I applaud anyone looking into lawn alternatives, this particular approach has some major problems.

1. It’s still a monoculture.

Monocultures, cultivation of a single plant in a given area, are difficult to maintain, especially in medium moisture environments where clover thrives. You will be battling weeds if you want to maintain a clover-only lawn. Monocultures are also risky, because you’re putting all your eggs in one basket (or is it “seeds in one packet”?). If your clover fails, there are no other plants there to cover the soil and you’ll need to start all over again attempting to establish something in exposed soil.

2. Grass will show up.

Unless you consistently use a grass-specific herbicide, grass will grow in your clover lawn. If you are trying to maintain a clover monoculture, this means you will either have to spray or pull the grass. Pulling grass, especially in an area the size of a lawn, would be exhaustive or in some cases outright impossible. If you don’t spray or pull the grass, you will need to mow the grass to avoid fines if you live in a city (most cities have ordinances limiting grass/weed heights). All of these options directly contradict many of the reasons most people are looking into a clover lawn.

3. It has less foot traffic tolerance.

Clover isn’t quite as tolerant of foot traffic as grass. For example, if I were to go outside and practice Taekwondo forms in the lawn, and I picked a spot that was more clover than grass, the repetitive spinning and pivoting would completely tear up the delicate clover stems and leaves. In comparison, grass can withstand much more abuse. I can practice for an hour in the same spot on grass, and it’ll just be flattened and spring back to full force within a day or two.

4. It’s less aggressive.

Clover is simply less aggressive than grass in spreading and growing. When you are trying to grow a lawn, this quality is highly desired. That’s why grass is used in high foot traffic areas. It’s a tough plant, but it also grows and spreads like crazy, so even if the plant is harmed, it just rapidly clones and reseeds and all is good again.

5. It dies back in the winter.

Clover also dies back in the winter and needs to grow back from the roots in the spring. So there will be a period of time where there is no ground cover. And what do you get when you mix zero plant cover with spring rain? Yes, mud. With grass, the plant above the soil stays intact but goes dormant. Then it springs back to life in the spring. Even before it’s green, it’s still there, covering the soil in a thick mat and preventing erosion and mud pits.

6. It’s resource intensive.

A clover monoculture lawn will be just as hard to maintain as a grass monoculture lawn. It may require herbicides or hours and hours of labor pulling grass and weeds. And it may need to be watered in times of drought. Plus, if you currently have a grass lawn, you will need to kill or remove the current living plants to sow the clover seeds. Then you will need keep everyone off, water consistently, and battle a major onslaught of weeds who will flock to your exposed soil until the clover is established.

My opinion

What I foresee for people who try to convert to a clover lawn is that they will eventually give up the battle against the grass and start mowing it. What they will end up with is a grass lawn with clover — which is great because clover is a very useful and beneficial additive to lawns (it fixes nitrogen), along with other great plants that tolerate mowing and foot traffic. But, it would have been a lot easier, cheaper, and less painful, to have just started off adding some clover seed into their grass lawns.

The bottom line: If you need a lawn (find out here) use grass, but also allow biodiversity so it’s less boring, cheaper, easier to maintain, and better for the local ecology. Plants that show up in your lawn and stay there, are plants that want to grow in those conditions. As long as they are not considered invasive species let them grow! All plants have evolved to be here because they serve a purpose in their ecosystems. Nature has handed them to you as a gift. Learn what each plant is — most weeds also have human uses, too. They might be edible or medicinal or useful as cut flowers. They might also help fertilize and/or aerate your lawn and give food to wildlife. When you open your heart and your lawn to a variety of plants, amazing things happen.

Introduced in 1959, the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR) is the quintessential ranch rifle round. The “.22 Mag,” as it’s less colloquially coined, delivers external and terminal ballistics sufficient to rid the pasture, woodlot and garden of marauding varmints, pests and predators out to 150 yards. When a quality rifle is placed in the hands of accomplished marksmen, that distance can be stretched a bit further. Despite the .22 Magnum’s uptick in external ballistics over the .22 Long Rifle (22 LR), perceived recoil is virtually nonexistent, making it ideal for multi-day prairie dog and ground squirrel shoots. Shooter fatigue with the cartridge is purely fictional.

Further endearing the .22 WMR to homeowners with neighbors is its reduced report; unless ultra-long volleys are commonplace, it’s unlikely that the sound will burden either the nearby residents or livestock within earshot. Ammunition is surprisingly affordable and diverse, too. In fact, 50-round boxes of ammunition in wide-ranging configurations range from $10.99 to $17.99 at MidwayUSA. Given such an assortment—the abovementioned retailer lists 26 different loads on its website—and price range, how do you know what to select? That’s the intent of this article—to provide an unbiased perspective.

In the subsequent paragraphs, I describe the particulars of six current .22 WMR hunting loads, as well as each load’s performance with regard to accuracy from a bench rest at 100 yards (five consecutive, five-shot groups), velocity and terminal performance at 50 yards in modeling clay. Velocities were recorded using a Competition Electronics ProChrono Digital 15 feet from the 20 ½-inch barrel of the test rifle, a Henry Repeating Arms Lever Action Octagon Frontier topped with a Bushnell Banner 3-9X40 riflescope. Bear in mind that as a lever-action rifle, the Henry was incapable of illustrating functionality of the ammunition in a semi-automatic, .22 WMR-chambered arm, and inherent accuracy shouldn’t be judged solely based on results from a single rifle, either. Lastly, I noted the advantages and drawbacks associated with each load. Here are my discoveries.

1. CCI Maxi-Mag .22 WMR 40-Grain Total Metal JacketParticulars: Featuring a full metal jacket, 40-grain bullet propelled to 1875 fps—for 312 ft.-lbs. of energy—this load was designed primarily for plinking and perforating paper; however, it’d nicely pull double-duty for those who want neutralize varmints or even dispatch porkers. Concerning the latter, from the field reports that I’ve read it’s the cat’s meow for exterminating feral hogs—to each their own. MSRP: $11.79 per 50-rnd. box; midwayusa.com.

Test: Across a Competition Electronics ProChrono Digital chronograph at 15 feet, the load averaged 1768 fps. Concerning accuracy, the flat-point, no-lead-exposed bullets proved to be near the top of the heap. In fact, for five consecutive, five-shot groups, it averaged 1.11-inch. The single smallest group measured 0.78-inch. As for its performance in the modeling clay, forget everything that you know about TMJ bullets—it doesn’t apply here. This bullet expands violently; weighing 33.4 grains, the recovered bullet measured an impressive 0.702-inch in diameter. Still, penetration was fairly deep.

Advantages: Eye-opening terminal ballistics, accurate, low cost, no-lead-exposed bullet.

Drawbacks: Looking for a non-expanding bullet to minimize pelt damage? This isn’t it.

2. Federal Premium V-Shok 30-Grain Speer TNTParticulars: This devastating round employs Speer’s appropriately named “TNT” bullet; pairing a lead core and thin jacket in a cavernous, hollow-point configuration maximizes expansion while simultaneously reducing penetration—perfect for stopping critters on the spot and reducing the risk of ricochet. Enhancing the external and terminal ballistics of the 30-grain bullet, its speedy 2200 fps velocity resulting in 322 ft.-lbs. of energy at the muzzle. MSRP: $12.99 per 50-rnd. box; midwayusa.com.

Test: Despite the test rifle’s 20½-inch barrel, this load achieved 2147 fps—only 53 fps less than the velocity achievable from a full 24-inch barrel. Accuracy with this round was respectable, averaging 1.39 inches for the 25 shots. Terminal performance in the modeling clay could be summed up with one word: devastating. The bullet created an immense yet relatively shallow cavity and completely fragmented. It’s little wonder why so many hunters report instantaneous kills on game upward the size of coyote.

Advantages: Shocking terminal performance, good accuracy, reasonable cost, reduced risk of ricochet.

Drawbacks: Want deep penetration? Look elsewhere.

3.CCI TNT Green .22 WMR 30-Grain Lead-Free Hollow PointParticulars: This is one of the few lead-free options in .22 WMR. It features a California compliant, 30-grain hollow-point bullet propelled to 2050 fps. Energy is 280 ft.-lbs. MSRP: $15.99 per 50-rnd. box; midwayusa.com.

Test: Taking into account its lightweight, 30-grain bullet, the recorded velocity of 1960 fps revealed that this is no speedster. That has little effect on its terminal performance, though. In fact, the projectile created a sizeable and surprisingly deep wound channel in which it fully fragmented, leaving the once-compressed core material strewn about. With such expansion characteristics, ricochets would be highly unlikely. The load’s strong showing with regard to terminal performance was somewhat offset by its accuracy potential; in the Henry it averaged 1.95 inches, which is large for extended-range work on smallish species.

Advantages: Lead-free (California compliant), good terminal ballistics.

Drawbacks: Pricey, lackluster accuracy.

4. Hornady 30-Grain V-MaxParticulars: The unabashed long-range option of this assemblage, this load employs Hornady’s 30-grain, polymer-tipped V-Max bullet propelled to 2200 fps, making it ideal for stretching the distance on wary varmints and predators. In addition to increasing the ballistic coefficient (BC) for improved external ballistics, the tip ensures explosive expansion even at the reduced velocities at distance. Recovery distances will be short—if the animals move at all. Energy is 322 ft.-lbs. As an aside, this bullet has a lead core, therefore it’s not California compliant for hunting; however, Hornady manufactures a lead-free option in its 25-grain NTX load. MSRP: $11.69 per 50-rnd. box; midwayusa.com.

Test: Averaging 2166 fps, the Hornady 30-grain V-Max load was the fastest of the group. It was also the most accurate; in fact, the average for five consecutive, five-shot groups was a remarkable 0.94-inch. The single smallest group measured a diminutive 0.21-inch. Between its speed and accuracy, this is the go-to round for stretching the distance. True to its lineage, the 30-grain V-Max bullet proved to be extremely explosive in the modeling clay; only a few shards of the jacket and core and the tip were recovered.

Advantages: Extremely accurate, fast, excellent terminal performance, reduced risk of ricochet, low cost.

Drawbacks: None

5. CCI .22 Mag GamePoint 40-grain Jacketed Soft PointParticulars: Unique in this grouping, the GamePoint load—marketed as a small-game load—features a 40-grain, jacketed, soft-point bullet, which is designed for controlled expansion and deep penetration. Said characteristics will endear it to pursuers of larger, tougher predators, such as coyotes. Propelled to 1875 fps, the bullet produces 312 ft.-lbs. of energy at the muzzle. MSRP: $12.99 per 50-rnd. box; academy.com.

Test: At 1915 fps, the Competition Electronics chronograph revealed that this load was slightly faster than the published velocity. Accuracy wise, the load did good but not great; for 25 shots it averaged 1.65-inch. What stands out about this load is its terminal performance. Constructed more like a big-game bullet than one for varmints, the recovered bullet weighed 39.9 grains—virtually 100 percent weight retention. Moreover, the bullet, which measured 0.545-inch in diameter, created a large wound cavity and penetrated deep. For coyotes and other large nuisance species within the .22 Magnum’s realm, there’s none better.

Advantages: Deep-penetrating, high-weight-retention bullet (perfect for larger animals within the cartridge’s capabilities), descent accuracy, moderate cost.

Drawbacks: More likely to ricochet than the more fragile bullets.

6. CCI Maxi-Mag .22 WMR 40-Gr. Jacket Hollow PointParticulars: Ah, yes, the omnipresent Maxi-Mag .22 WMR load; perhaps none is as so persuasive. The 40-grain, copper-plated-lead, hollow-point bullet is pushed to 1875 fps, for 312 ft.-lbs. of energy. Designed for small game and varmints—think utilitarian—the projectile offers controlled expansion for deep(ish) penetration. Because of its terminal performance, though, only with headshots should it be utilized on edible game. MSRP: $11.79 per 50-rnd. box; midwayusa.com.

Test: This load clocked 1759 fps from the Henry’s abbreviated barrel. Concerning accuracy, at 1.90-inch for it left much to be desired; you’ll struggle to make consistent hits on small species at the 22 WMR’s farthest reaches. The load offered a useful blend of terminal ballistics. Only the GamePoint and TMJ loads out-penetrated the Maxi-Mag 40-grain JHP bullet, and the cavity it produced was sizable. Given the recovered projectile expanded to 0.438-inch in diameter and weighed 17.5 grains, a sizeable portion of the bullet pierced deep while the washed off material would naturally serve to damage vital organs and structures.

Advantages: Utilitarian bullet design, low cost

Drawbacks: Unimpressive accuracy

The .22 WMR is a top-notch cartridge for eliminating nuisance animals at ranges out to 150 yards. However, its maximum potential is unlocked only through load selection. Here you’ve been introduced to six options among the many in the marketplace. One of them will help you extract the most from your “.22 Mag.”