Six years ago, a retired police officer and construction company owner saw the need to help children from low-income families stay off the street and give their lives fulfillment. He chose to do so through fishing.

“All the kids benefit from activities like this. You know, it gives them something to look forward to,” said Captain Rich Brochu in a MSNBC report. “Obviously, we want to give them a choice in life and hopefully do something better with their life.”

Brochu and his crew of 8 to 18 year old kids were the spotlight of MSNBC’s “Making A Difference”, a segment on the extraordinary positive things taking place around the United States led by ordinary people.

The after-school fishing program (Florida Fishing Academy) teaches children about a healthy lifestyle, not only enriched by spending time out on the water, but also warns against drugs, alcohol and crime. Kids learn life lessons and fishing after school, then go out on the water to learn about conservation while fishing for shark, swordfish, deep-sea fishing and drift fishing.

Find out more and hear about it from the kids themselves in the video below.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - MSNBC Highlights Fishing as a Way to Get Kids Off the Street

Every year the U.S. Army’s Sniper School at Fort Benning, GA, hosts the International Sniper Competition, inviting the best snipers from around the world to compete. This mentally and physically taxing competition challenges the participants’ precision, endurance, stalking and observational skills. These intense events are revealed in this action packed film, available immediately for purchase through Amazon, eBay and other retailers.

SNIPER COMP takes audiences alongside elite sniper teams from around the world as they embark on the most demanding test of a sniper’s skills imaginable — The International Sniper Competition. The competition showcases thirty-two teams from the Army, Army National Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force, Special Forces, SWAT and three foreign countries that will compete in eighteen events and combat simulations over the course of seven days that will test every skill they have.

Profits from SNIPER COMP are donated to the following non-profits: The US Army Sniper Association (www.armysniper.org) and the USMC Scout/Sniper Association (www.usmcscoutsniper.org.) This production was created in the effort to raise money for deployed forces and honor fallen soldiers.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Legion Productions Releases New DVD, SNIPER COMP

The Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) is pleased to announce the release of the second Breeding Bird Atlas for the state of Michigan. KNC coordinated the fieldwork and data collection which occurred between 2002 and 2008. More than 800 volunteers contributed to the project by making observations and confirming species throughout Michigan. The Michigan Breeding Birds Atlas (MBBA II) is available online at www.mibirdatlas.org. If you are interested in the birds in your backyard or in detailed background analysis and maps depicting where different species occur, nearly 250 species are covered in this searchable/printable Web publication. The first Michigan Breeding Bird Atlas (MBBA I), also led by KNC and completed in 1988, is also on the site. The MBBA I, a printed publication, published in 1991, has been digitized for viewing and/or download.

Michigan is one of the few states to produce a second breeding bird atlas, the purpose of which is to

• Document the current distribution of Michigan’s breeding birds
• Document changes in distribution since Michigan Breeding Bird Atlas I
• Identify Important Bird Areas of high conservation value
• Provide data to agencies for incorporation into their habitat and conservation plans
• Increase the public’s expertise and involvement in birding

Additional sections on bird conservation issues and updated natural communities maps are on the site.

Natural resource professionals can use the information to assist them in making management decisions and anyone interested in learning more about birds, nature, conservation, and the environment will benefit from the accounts found in the Atlas.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Kalamazoo Nature Center Releases Michigan Breeding Bird Atlas II

American Tactical Imports is now the proud distributor of Drago Gear tactical equipment.

ATI is pleased to distribute Drago Gear. This equipment is everything you need in a tactical situation–it’s tough and reliable but with a polished finish giving you total edge when you need it most.

Drago Gear products have Tough etched into their DNA. Engineered to exacting specifications, each piece of Drago equipment is built to last longer, look better, and exceed expectations in terms of performance, strength, and functionality to give you the best value available.

Drago offers the following tactical equipment:

•  Backpacks: Drago Backpacks are designed to allow the wearer to comfortably carry and efficiently access their gear while on the go. Manufactured for maximum durability, Drago backpacks will outlast the toughest jobs and keep equipment protected from the harshest environments, time and time again.
• Handcuffs: Drago Handcuffs are durable, secure and professional grade. They feature a double-lock system and are available in black, nickel or stainless steel.
• Tactical Gun Cases: Drago Tactical Weapon Cases are designed to optimally secure and protect long guns, and come equipped with multiple storage areas to efficiently organize ammunition and accessories.
• Side Packs: Side packs enable operatives to travel lighter and longer than is possible with traditional backpacks, while still allowing access to the equipment and documents they need, when they need them. Drago side packs offer an uncommon level of versatility and maneuverability that is simply not possible when using other tactical equipment.
• Tactical Pens: Drago Tactical Pens represent a unique combination – they are at once fine writing instruments and formidable weapons of protection. Featuring attractive designs and premium ink cartridges, one quick, well-placed thrust of a Drago Tactical Pen can generate enough stopping power to bring down even the most violent aggressor.
• Batons: The skillful use of a Drago baton can bring a dangerous adversary under control in seconds. Regardless of which weapon is appropriate for the particular situation – either the Drago PR24 or the Drago expandable baton – these tools can defuse most threatening adversaries quickly and decisively.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - American Tactical Imports Distributes Drago Gear

New tactical, covert and high performance products are featured in the spring/summer catalog from 5.11 Tactical that will be available in March 2012.

In addition to cargo pants, polos and desert boots, these tactical products were previewed at Shot Show 2012 and promise to be the top new choices of law enforcement, public safety and fire/EMS. Increase your performance with gear that is made by 5.11 Tactical and trusted by professionals.

Screen Ops Gloves

Patrol, Duty, and Tactical Gloves with specially constructed fingertips enable efficient and precise operation of capacitive resistance touch screen devices with all five fingertips. Compatible with products from cell phones to iPads, the patented Tactical Touch seamless fingertip construction assures superior dexterity, fit and comfort. The technology enables the wearer to operate touch screens with all five fingers while retaining the protection of their gloves. Three styles to choose from: The Patrol and Duty Gloves are constructed with seamless sheepskin palms, perfect for pat-downs, weapons handling, driving, or other tasks. The Tactical Gloves are made with seamless goatskin on the palm and fingers, with perforated leather padding over the knuckles and American made Kevlar fabric for added protection in tactical environments.

All Hazards Prime Pack and Ammo Mule

Foreseeing the need for “at ready” equipment and gear, 5.11 Tactical has partnered with Multiple-Assault Counter Terrorism Action Capability (MACTAC) instructors to develop the All Hazards Prime Back Pack and Ammo Mule. Built on the concept of their popular RUSH series backpacks, the All Hazards Prime features an internal laptop case, internal tablet sleeve, a hydration (or armor) compartment, front admin panel and a large‘shove-it’ area. The main internal compartment will accept 2 fully loaded 5.11 All Hazards Ammo Mules for a total of 20 AR magazines. The front organizer unzips a full 180 degrees for full access to internal mesh pouches. A fleece-lined and padded pocket provides protection for eyewear.

Double Duty Knives

5.11 introduces two Double Duty Knives, both 9.7” total length, containing two locking blades made of AUS8 stainless steel with 3.7”combo edge main blades. The Double Duty Karambit Blade provides a secondary black oxide Karambit blade with FRN scales. The Double Duty Responder Knife is outfitted with a secondary serrated safety seat belt blade with orange FRN scales and rubber overmolding for exceptional wet or dry control.

Side Pick Spearpoint Knife

Value, durability and versatility. Constructed of high quality AUS8 blade steel with fiberglass reinforced nylon scales, this 3.5” blade knife provides versatile carry options for ultimate accessibility. Contoured and textured grip offers optimum control of this rugged performance tool.

ATAC and TPT Mid and Full-Size Torches

A leader in illumination, 5.11 introduces five new high performance tactical and duty torches. Available May 2012, the ATAC Tactical Torches with top quality Cree LEDs and Lithium Ion rechargeable systems provide extended run times; low, high, and strobe modes and exceptional light output. The TPT family of torches includes two models with NiMH rechargeable and alkaline back-up battery systems and the value-priced (2) CR123A polymer tactical torch. All TPT models have high impact molded body, three light modes with tight hot spot with Large Corona beam.

Covert Casual

Updated design and performance proven, a short sleeve covert casual shirt now in expanded fabrics, styles and colors with 39 shirts to choose from – no one will suspect that this shirt was designed for undercover operatives. Generous length and RAPIDrawÔ center placket with mock buttons conceal your holstered sidearm yet makes it accessible when you need it.

Breaching Tools

The fastest, easiest and most complete breaching system on the market. 5.11’s Breaching Tool System launches with the MiniRam, the compact MultiPry, the MultiSledge, the full-sized MultiBreacher and the unique MultiDoor that allows training for different types of outward and inward opening doors with mechanical and hydraulic tools. An entirely new method of breaching, realized by the team from Swedish Entry Tools, allows public safety personnel to breach inward and outward opening security doors with speed whilst minimizing exposure.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - 5.11 Tactical Unveils New Tactical Gear for Spring and Summer 2012

Public land is a great resource, but unfortunately not everyone that uses public land is as courteous as they should be and unless you leave the night before your hunt you are not going to get “the spot” that you want. Here are a couple of hints to make you next public land hunt that much more successful.

Tip #1

Get off the beaten path, it’s a beaten path because people use it. Unless you want to be hunting with someone you didn’t want to hunt with, you need to make an effort to go your own way. You don’t need to be in the same place everyone else is in. When the shooting starts the ducks have to go somewhere. Try and find and little pot hole or bend of a creek that offers protection for the ducks, this is what they’re looking for. Staying away from the crowds is nicer too because then you don’t have to worry about shooting at birds that may or may not be decoying your spread. Some of the best hunting we have found on public land is on a small little ditch almost a mile off the beaten path; it has never failed us yet.

Tip #2

Don’t use what everyone else is using, If people are using MOJOs and ten dozen decoys, try something different, try using 6-12 decoys and no MOJOs and vice versa. What you have to remember is that when ducks see the same thing day in and day out and then they get shot at they are going to start to avoid these areas, if you are using something different they are not going to be decoy shy, giving you a better opportunity to bag your limit. Something to add a little motion to your spread that is light and easy to use is Quiver Magnets, throw 2-3 in your spread and let them work.

Tip #3

Be mobile, don’t commit yourself to one spot and be ready to move in the blink of an eye. If birds are not working your spread or you are watching birds fly in a different direction, try and get to where they are going. If you can’t get to where they are going, try and get somewhere between where they’re coming from and where they are going. One tip to being more mobile is instead of carrying everything in a pit bag with one shoulder strap put everything in a back pack with two shoulder straps, this makes it a lot easier to carry things in and farther without being a burden on your shoulders.

Tip #4

Scout! I know this is the most obvious but if you get out pre-season and find different spots, you will be more prepared for those mornings when you can’t hunt the spot you wanted to. I recommend that you carry a GPS and a notebook and something to write with, in your notebook keep track of how you got there, the location of the spot, whether you saw birds or not, what you might need to bring in to help with decoying birds or hiding yourself, what kind of cover is around the spot to hide in, how long it took you to get there and what wind direction works best for this location. Most importantly keep track of whether the location holds water year round or just when it is a wet year, there is nothing worse than walking to a new spot to find out that it’s dried up.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Hints for Hunting Ducks on High-Pressure Public Land

Body Glove’s film, 8-Bit is showing at the 9^th annual San Francisco Ocean Film Festival. The festival kicks off on March 8^th at the Aquarium of the Bay and runs through March 11^th.

8-Bit, originally created for submission in the Transworld Surf Imaginarium contest, received first place overall honors from our surf peers. The idea for the film came from Body Glove team rider Cheyne Magnusson, and the rest of team immediately jumped on board with the Mario Brothers inspired idea.  8-Bit was also selected to screen at the X-Dance Film Festival in Salt Lake City and the DigiDay Video Awards in New York City.

The San Francisco Ocean Film Festival is hosting an Opening Night reception at the Aquarium of the Bay on Thursday, March 8^th. Films will be shown in Theater 39 right next to the Aquarium until Sunday, March 11^th. 8-Bit will be shown on Friday, March 9^th with film editor Scott Smith in attendance.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Body Glove’s Short Film 8-Bit Screening at the 9th Annual San Francisco Ocean Film Festival

The wild turkey has phenomenal eyesight making it one of the most difficult creatures to hunt. In fact, nothing more than a hunter’s eye movement can alert a gobbler to a fully camouflaged hunter’s presence. For that reason, facial camouflage is essential to a successful turkey hunt. The Stealth Vision Hat by North Mountain Supplies, provides you with the full facial concealment you need.

When you’re setup on the ground waiting for that gobbler to show up, the Stealth Vision hat is a must. This hat’s ingenious design allows you to get closer to the turkeys you are hunting, so you can make that perfect shot. The hat’s breathable mesh bill allows you to camouflage your entire upper face and eyes. You can disguise yourself by simply tilting your head down and looking up through the mesh bill. Turkeys will no longer spook simply because of the blink of an eye, and you will no longer be troubled with a facemask.

Owner and Inventor of Stealth Vision Hats, Jerry Scott, says it is “the ultimate hunting hat when it comes to the ability to enhance your chances of coming home successful. This is a product that we stand behind 100% and will replace free of charge for any defect in material or workmanship you might find in it.”

This turkey season stack the odds in your favor with the Stealth Vision Hat from North Mountain Supplies. For more information visit them online at
www.stealthvisionhats.com.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Increase Your Turkey-Hunting Success With a Stealth Vision Hat

FLW, the world’s leading tournament-fishing organization, announced today that Fatheadz Eyewear will join the sponsorship lineup for the 2012 season. Fatheadz Eyewear is the leading eyewear maker catering to men and women with all sizes of heads.

“The quality products that Fatheadz Eyewear manufactures give anglers even more options in performance eyewear with a design based on comfort,” said Fatheadz Eyewear pro Jacob Wheeler of Indianapolis, Ind. “Quality eyewear is necessary equipment for anglers of all skill levels, and when you’re on a boat all day the comfort of your eyewear becomes a factor. That’s where Fatheadz Eyewear excels.”

Fatheadz Eyewear will receive exposure across all of FLW’s platforms, including its tournaments and Expos, multiple websites, FLW Bass Fishing and FLW Walleye Fishing magazines and the “FLW” television show on NBC Sports Network. “FLW” is broadcast Sundays in high-definition (HD) to more than 559 million households worldwide, making it the most widely distributed weekly outdoors-sports television show in the world.

“Fatheadz Eyewear is proud and excited to form this partnership with FLW,” said Rico Elmore, Fatheadz Eyewear CEO. “To be associated with the top tournament anglers in the world is an honor. This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our line of eyewear to a significant new audience.”

Fatheadz Eyewear is celebrating its eighth year in the industry, providing high-quality eyewear for oversized heads. Their variety of designs includes The Law, The Don, Flash, and The Jack. They have recently expanded and are now offering Fatheadz clothing and apparel. For more information, visit Fatheadz.com or look for Fatheadz Eyewear on Twitter and Facebook.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - FLW Adds Fatheadz Eyewear to 2012 Sponsor Lineup

While you are lying in your bed at night, dedicated teams of biologists are sleeping in tents so they can wake up at the crack of dawn to help protect our state’s bald eagles.

“For more than 30 years, the state’s unique nestwatch program has been an integral component of Arizona bald eagle management,” says Kenneth Jacobson, head of the Arizona Game and Fish Department Bald Eagle Management Program. “Nestwatchers have helped save the lives of over 60 eagle nestlings since the program began in 1978. Their contributions certainly have helped Arizona’s bald eagle population grow.”

This year’s nestwatchers began their four-month tour of duty in early February. They will watch 13 breeding areas, most along the Salt and Verde rivers in national forests, on Native American lands, and in Maricopa County parks. The contractors will observe from dawn to dusk, collecting data about the eagles’ behavior, educating the public, and notifying rescuers of any life-threatening situations for the birds.

The nationally-recognized nestwatch program began as a weekend volunteer effort by the U.S. Forest Service and Maricopa Audubon to help ensure the continued success of bald eagle breeding. Now 26 government, private agencies and tribes are involved with the program to monitor bald eagle breeding areas that are under heavy pressure from human recreational activities.

In Arizona, the bald eagle population has grown from 11 breeding pairs to more than 60. Last year, bald eagles set three new records: 79 eggs laid, 55 breeding areas were occupied and 56 nestlings fledged.

The department’s bald eagle conservation program is supported by the Heritage Fund, a 20-year-old voter initiative that provides funding for wildlife conservation and education from Arizona lottery dollars.

For more information on Arizona’s bald eagles, visit www.azgfd.gov/baldeagle.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Nestwatchers Help Arizona’s Bald Eagle Population Grow