Recent content by RM Anderson

Yes, the hardest part of planting trees is keeping them alive. When we first moved to the country the mortality rate on our new trees was almost 50%. If deer didn't kill a young tree the first or second winter the sun scald would. Fortunately my wife and I are equally stubborn and have picked up...

Here's a small tip that may save some money on your dodger. After spending over a thousand for a Sailrite sewing machine (no regrets) I discovered 3M makes a permanent basting tape that replaces stitches. Expensive as hell but on a small one time project, cost effective. Just be sure to purchase...

Your grandfather sounds like my kind of guy! I don't out how I will get a walker to my duck or turkey blind but I have a few years to figure it out. What a great zest for life your grandfather has!

Thanks for sharing. I was considering an inflatable but am now sufficiently spooked.This story could have ended very differently without your preparedness training. RM

Henry, I did two layers of 6 oz cloth on the bottom of both of my builds just for piece of mind. Dings and scrapes are inevitable but risk of water intrusion was my motivation for an extra layer. That said, I tend to over build; adding quality where it is not needed. For a fraction of the cost...

The political pendulum does seem to swing wildly in recent years. I too am saddened by many of the cuts to truly righteous programs. My wife's job is a prime example. She works for a state administered federally mandated program that helped the elderly move out of nursing homes where they are...

Henry, Ever consider a second layer of glass or dynel on the bottom for extra abrasion resistance followed by Tod's suggestion? RM

The enemy is not Clinton John, Donald Trump, Democrats or Republicans. The enemy is us the voters who voted in politicians who promised the greatest largesse. Few people know that in a few short years every dollar the federal government takes in will be used to pay just the interest on the...

Four for four! My wife and I started this turkey season with four tags and we were able to fill them all. This is actually my wife Heather's Merriam but she refused to pose for a photo because of her hair. Shot was taken right after fly down and headed straight for the decoys. The turkeys in the...

John, I used UHMW wear strips on my Kara Hummer. This is the third year and no problems yet. My biggest concern was the huge temperature swings in MN. In the winter at times -30 F and summer temps can reach 100 F. No separation, buckling or cracking. Would recommend G-Flex for bonding. Richard

Dylan, I contemplated buying a Carstens Mallard as they are made in Minnesota, I believe, but ended up building a Devlin's poleboat instead. I would think it is possible to mount oarlocks for rowing if you have to travel long distances. Though I built a poleboat and carry a pole on board, I find...

Gabe, Sounds like alot of fun! I'm willing to bet there are some knowledgeable members who live close to you who would offer their opinion on the amount of work necessary to restore the boat you are interested in. Personally I would rather build new using modern stitch and glue construction...

Minnesota has early teal. I seem to remember reading in DU magazine that the feds are giving states the option of reducing the length of season or reducing bag limits. I've never hunted early season cause it's usually too damn hot. Richard