Americana Outdoors E-Magazine - July 2018 Edition

JULY 2018

2019 SIDE-BY-SIDE LINE UP ANNOUNCED

LIVESCOPE™ MAKES ITS DEBUT

RANGER 2260 BAY BOAT

JULY 2018 - 16TH EDITION I n this issue ...

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Garmin Panoptix Livescope™ Great Americana Outdoors Giveaway Gone Fishing with Bass Pro Shops

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Thompson/Center Arms Launches T/CR22 Rifle Yamaha Unveils New 2019 Side-By-Side Lineup 2018 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s Recap Bethel University wins Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia The Ranger Boats 2260 Bay Boat Bradley Smoker Recipe: Smoked Venison Sausage Garmin Xero™ Bow Sight is Now Available! Performance Center® Introduces T/C® Long Range Rifle

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Tools & Tackle Gill Race Bag

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ATTENTION

This is an interactive E-Magazine. Readers will be able to click links and logos which will direct them to company websites, products, and play videos.

STAFF: EDITOR IN CHIEF: Wade Middleton CONTENT LAYOUT: Shelley Giesecke GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Adam Elmhorst

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR As the hot days of summer are well upon us – we’re in triple digits in Texas…current temp outside is 102° as I type (inside with AC, thankfully!) -- and we’re trying to stay cool as we get a little fishing in. We had a fun-filled Spring with turkey hunting and hosting the first Yamaha Turkey Bass Smash at our camp….some of the funniest episodes, so be sure to watch them! The month of May is always one of the busiest and also a favorite time here – this year was our 13th BoatUS Colle- giate Bass Fishing Championship! A huge Congrats goes out to Bethel University for their wins…Carter McNeil and Cole Floyd took the 2018 National Champion Title, and thus absolutely securing the prestigious title of Cabela’s School of the Year Winners for Bethel University! While we’re on the water, we’ve been left in awe of tech- nology and Garmin with their release of the new Panoptix LiveScope™ . It’s unbelievable and you will be amazed with us when you see LiveScope™ in action later in this issue. Americana Outdoors is having a blast giving away prizes to our fans! If you haven’t checked it out yet, be sure to see all the products given away in June, and the four trips of a lifetime from which the Grand Prize winner will get to choose! We’re headed to ICAST in July and will be back with a special edition featuring all the new products we find! Until then, get out on the water….and take a kid fishing!

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Garmin International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ:GRMN), today announced Panoptix Live- Scope™ – a live scanning sonar that gives anglers higher resolution and easier-to-interpret images of structure, bait and fish swimming below and around the boat than ever before. Garmin’s revolutionary Panoptix™ all-seeing sonar technology was the first to deliver live sonar images in real-time – forwards, backwards, sideways and below the boat – even while stationary. Now, thanks to the active scanning capabilities of Panoptix LiveScope, anglers can see images and movement so clear and precise that it’s even possible to distinguish between species of fish. See LiveScope in action here . “We took scanning sonar and made it Panoptix,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global con- sumer sales. “By combining two game-changing innovations – scanning sonar and live sonar – Panop- tix LiveScope delivers the best of both technologies and there’s nothing out there even close to it. Once you’ve seen fish in this level of detail in a live, real-time image on your chartplotter, all other sonar is history – literally.” Like other Garmin Panoptix transducers, LiveScope features two modes in one transducer –LiveScope Down and LiveScope Forward – and can be installed on a trolling motor or the transom (recommended only for LiveScope Forward). Depending on the angler’s fishing preferences and techniques, LiveScope can easily be adjusted to change views. Simply point the LiveScope transducer down to see direct- ly below the boat, or forward to see around the boat. Either view provides incredibly sharp, real-time scanning sonar images up to 200 feet down or away from the boat, even when the boat is stationary. LiveScope is also equipped with an attitude heading reference system (AHRS) that constantly adjusts sonar beams to compensate for boat motion, so even in rough conditions, anglers will still see a steady sonar image.

Panoptix LiveScope is being introduced in con- junction with a global 360-degree advertising campaign called “Sons of Fishes 2” that features Garmin-sponsored professional anglers Jason Christie, two-time BASS Elite Series champi- on, and Bill Dance, bass fishing’s elder states- man and ambassador. The Sons of Fishes sequel includes television, print, digital and social media executions that show a rival fishing club, The Bad Basses, attempting to claim the Sons of Fishes’ spot on the water and coveted LiveScope technol- ogy for themselves. To find out which fishing club prevails, check out the full commercial here. The Panoptix LiveScope scanning sonar system includes a compact GLS 10 sonar black box with an LVS32 transducer and a simple plug-and- play Garmin Marine Network connector for easy installation and integration with a compatible Garmin chartplotter. A trolling motor barrel and shaft mounting kit and a transom mounting kit are also included. Panoptix LiveScope is compat- ible with Garmin’s GPSMAP® 8400/8600 multi- function displays, GPSMAP 7400/7600, GPSMAP 10X2/12X2, GPSMAP 10X2/12X2xsv Touch and GPSMAP 7X2/9X2 series chartplotters, and the ECHOMAP™ Plus 7Xcv/7Xsv/9Xsv chartplotter/ sonar combo series. Available now, the Panoptix LiveScope system has a suggested retail price of $1,499.99. For more in- formation, videos and images, visit www.garmin. com/panoptix.

Watch the Sons of Fishes in the new Garmin LiveScope™ Television Commercial

LiveScope Down mode allows you to see live, easy-to-in- terpret scanning sonar images of structure and swimming fish in incredible detail below your boat —up to 200’ — even while your boat is stationary.

v

“All other sonar is history – literally.” Dan Bartel Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales

LiveScope Forward mode is an excellent tool for scouting and fishing out ahead of your cast. You’re looking at live, highly detailed and easy-to-interpret scanning sonar im- ages of structure and fish swimming all around your boat — up to 200’ — even while your boat is stationary.

READY TO WIN A TRIP OF A LIFETIME?!

Enter below through October 26th. All entries are eligible to win daily prizes (through June), as well as monthly prizes, and the Grand Prize of a bucket list trip!

You only need to enter once. If you are selected as daily prize winner (announced on Facebook), you are still eligible for the Monthly Prizes and Grand PrizE.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

JUNE DAILY WINNERS (as of 6.27.18)

June 25th Donald Mahr - Conquest Scents EverCalm Liquid Scent June 26th Steve Schroeder - Bass Fishing Prize Pack June 27th Nathan Howard - Fishing/Hunting Prize Pack June 28th Scott Thatcher - Fishing Prize Pack June 29th Glen Miller - Cabela’s and T/C Arms Apparel June 30th Daniel Rouse - Conquest Scents Rutting Prize Pack

June 1st David Dove - $25 Bass Pro Shops / Cabela’s Gift Card June 2nd Terry Pierce - Bass Fishing Prize Box June 3rd Kent Mills - Cabela’s Prize Package June 4th Stacy Giacosa-Bauer - Saltwater Fishing Prize Pack June 5th Travis Palmer - Yamaha Marine Hat June 6th Joseph Duhon - Yamaha Outdoors hat June 7th Corey Swaditch - Thompson/Center Camo Hat June 8th Steven Gobble - Thompson/Center Jacket June 9th Rick Steen - TenPoint Cross Shirt and Hat June 10th Kenneth Norris - Sawyer Mini Water Filter June 11th Spencer Hand - Cabela’s Camo Hat June 12th Tony Barile - Bradley Smoker Hat June 13th Sean Bentley - Bass Fishing Prize Pack June 14th Charles Frest - Stealth Cam PXP24NG June 15th Brian Heldbridle - Cabela’s Shirt and Hat June 16th Randall Beauchamp - Abu Garcia Veritas Fishing Rod June 17th John Wigal - Saltwater Fishing Prize Pack June 18th Jeff Gorr - Cyclops LED Spotlight June 19th Dereak Webb - Cabela’s Prize Pack June 20th David Ridings - Engel Coolers Tumbler June 21st Terry Grahn - Bass Fishing Prize Pack June 22nd Harry Pleer - Yamaha Shirt and Cabela’s Hat June 23rd Ronny Knapp - Cabela’s Spinnerbait & SPRO MC Stick June 24th Roger MacPhail - Walker’s Ultimate Power Muff Quads

Noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris is challenging families everywhere to put down their digital devices and head outside to discover the joys of fishing this summer. Morris, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s are donating more than 50,000 rods and reels to not-for-profit partners that help kids from all backgrounds connect to the great outdoors to kick off Gone Fishing. The nationwide movement is part of an annual call-to-action that aims to introduce the sport to mil- lions of kids. Activities include donations, nonprofit partnerships and a variety of free in-store activities at all Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s locations across North America on June 9-10 and 16-17. “In a world where kids are increasingly surrounded by screens and digital distractions, it’s more import- ant than ever to help them discover the joy of fishing,” said Bob Ziehmer, Bass Pro Shops Senior Direc- tor of Conservation. Today’s donations underscore our commitment to inspiring the next generation of conservationists, sportsmen and women, and we hope everyone joins us for our free Gone Fishing events in stores this summer.” NATIONAL DONATION DAY Gone Fishing kicked off with a national donation day on Thursday, June 7, with Morris, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s donating more than 50,000 rods and reels to nonprofit organizations that connect kids to the outdoors and help get more kids outside. Customers brought in gently used rods and reels this spring in exchange for discounts on new gear; each piece is refurbished to ensure they are fish-ready for kids. With Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s joining forces, this year marks the largest donation in the event’s history. In the last five years, Bass Pro has donated more than 300,000 items to youth-focused nonprofit organizations including Boys and Girls Club and Boy Scouts of America.

To share memories from the great outdoors, anglers of all ages are encouraged to join the movement by posting a fish selfie to social media using the hashtag #gonefishing, challenging friends to post their catches and pledging to take someone fishing this summer. Participants are also encouraged to do- nate to Teach a Child to Fish. Founded by former professional football player Kendall Newson, Teach a Child to Fish is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing underprivileged, disabled and less fortunate children the opportunity to enjoy nature through fishing, outdoor activities and educational programs. A CONSERVATION LEADER Gone Fishing is one of the many ways Johnny Morris guides Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s to inspire everyone to enjoy, love and conserve the great outdoors. The premier outdoor and conservation com- pany is a leader in protecting wildlife and habitat, and connecting new audiences to the outdoors. Last September, Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium opened at the Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri. A gift to the sportsmen and women of America from Johnny Morris, Wonders of Wildlife was recently voted America’s Best Aquarium and America’s Number One Best New Attraction by readers of USA Today. Larger than the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, the not-for-profit attraction is the world’s grandest tribute to the conservation move- ment and the adventurers, explorers, outdoorsmen and conservationists who helped discover, develop and preserve the nation we love. Even though the event may have ended, the pledge still remains. Take a kid fishing this sum- mer and don’t forget to use the hashtag #GoneFishing! For more information about Gone Fishing, visit basspro.com/gonefishing or cabelas.com/gonefishing.

PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY Spanning 350,000 square feet and more than 1.5 miles of trails, Wonders of Wildlife takes you on a journey through immersive habitats that entertain and educate while sharing the story of America’s most significant conservationists throughout history and today! Share the wonder of nature through an inspirational journey around the world celebrating people who hunt, fish and act as stewards of the land and water. Dive in to a world-class aquarium adventure featuring 1.5 million gallons of freshwater and saltwater habitats teeming with 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, am- phibians and birds. Fully immersive wildlife galleries transport you to the wildest places on earth in an exciting and educational trip showcasing the history of the conservation move- ment. GET YOUR TICKETS NOW CLICK HERE !

Thompson/Center Arms recently announced that it has introduced a new semi-automatic rimfire rifle: the Thompson/Center T/CR22 rifle. Expertly crafted for hunters, plinkers, and first-time shooters alike, the new T/CR22 rifle integrates a variety of high-end features into an innovative rimfire package. “Thompson/Center has a long, storied history of innovation in firearms, from muz- zleloaders to bolt-action rifles. When we decided it was time to develop our next rimfire rifle, we wanted to be sure to continue that trend. The new T/CR22 rifle incorporates up- graded features right out of the box from its enhanced materials, to its ergonomics, to its compatibility with aftermarket components. We’ve taken the opportunity to contemporize a classic through advancements in design, and we are confident that our customers will appreciate the features in the new T/CR22 rifle.” - Danielle Sanville BRAND MANAGER - THOMPSON/CENTER Thompson/Center Arms Launches New T/CR22 Rifle

Additional T/CR22 Features Include: Last shot bolt hold open when using factory magazine Easy-to-use push button safety Oversized bolt handle for easy manipulation Fully machined 6061 aluminum receiver Fully machined stainless steel bolt 17” button-rifled barrel, 1:15” twist rate Molded-in sling swivel studs Slots in forend to accept M-LOK® accessories

The Thompson/Center T/CR22 rifle delivers out- of-the-box performance through a feature set that appeals to hunters and avid firearms owners. The new T/CR22 rifle includes a green fiber op- tic front sight and adjustable rear peep sight for quick target acquisition, while the built-in picatin- ny-style rail allows for the mounting of an optic for precision shooting at longer ranges. The rifle fea- tures a light, crisp trigger pull, button-rifled barrel, and a threaded muzzle that allows for the use of a suppressor or other muzzle device. The T/CR22 rifle is compatible with most aftermarket 10/22® accessories, and it’s modular design features a rugged, lightweight Magpul® co-branded OD green composite stock for quick handling.

Yamaha Unveils NEW 2019 Side-By-Side Lineup

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, introduces its new line- up of Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles, providing supe- rior Capability, Comfort and Confidence to deliver ProvenOff-Roadperformance inavarietyof terrain. Yamaha’s 2019 lineup is highlighted by the all-new Wolverine X2™. Following last year’s launch of the four-seat Wolverine X4™, the Wolverine X2 leads the way in tight, techni- cal terrain in a compact, nimble chassis as the ultimate two-seat trail-exploring vehicle. Also new for 2019 is the enhanced YXZ1000R™ / Sport Shift (SS), redesigned to deliver added com- fort and confidence for those ultimate high-per- formance off-road adventures anywhere in the country. Yamaha’s SxS lineup also includes the hard- working Viking and Viking VI utility vehicles with three- and six-seat cabins, 600-pound dump bed, and powerful 1,500-pound towing capacity. “From trail-exploring recreational vehicles, to hard working ranch hands, and the ultimate pure-sport machine, Yamaha’s 2019 Side-by-Side lineup is designed to meet – and exceed – the needs and

demands of the diverse and continually grow- ing community of off-road enthusiasts across the country,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha’s vice president of ATV / SxS group operations.

All-New 2019 Wolverine X2: Ultimate Trail-Exploring Machine The all-new Yamaha Wolverine X2 combines Proven Off-Road capability and confidence-in- spiring performance with Real World comfort in a compact, nimble chassis making it the ultimate trail-exploring vehicle in tight, technical terrain. Its versatile and work-ready Real World Tough design features a comfortable two-person cab configura- tion, along with a newly designed 600-pound-rated

dump bed with an automotive-style one-hand op- erated tailgate, and impressive 2,000-pound tow- ing capacity. No matter the adventure, both driver and passenger will enjoy the comfortable, quiet ride, which welcomes conversations at any RPM range thanks to the smooth, vibration-free power of the vehicle’s new 847-cc twin cylinder engine. Yamaha’s driver-centric Real World Tech features include a new ultra-reliable and durable Ultramat- ic® continuously variable transmission (CVT), en- hanced to accommodate more than 60 pounds- foot of torque, as well as Yamaha’s dependable, driver-controlled On-Command® four-wheel drive (4WD) system, and the industry’s foremost Electric Power Steering (EPS). Available immediately, the all-new Wolverine X2 in Graphite starts at $12,699 (MSRP). The Wolver- ine X2 R-Spec with KYB piggyback shocks, hard suntop, overfenders, and cast aluminum wheels is available in both Ridge Red and Alpine White color schemes at a $14,499 (MSRP). For hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, the camouflage mod- el is available in an all-new Realtree Edge pattern for $14,949 (MSRP). Donning painted bodywork, color-matched interior and other full-feature up- grades, the Wolverine X2 R-Spec Special Edition (SE) models are available in Tactical Black and Backcountry Blue at $15,299 (MSRP). “Yamaha tests all of its Side-by-Sides in real world scenarios ensuring the best combination of com- fort, capability and confidence-inspiring perfor- mance to ensure off-road enthusiasts will truly REALize their Adventure.” Mike Martinez -Yamaha’s vice president of ATV / SxS group operations 2019 Wolverine X4: An Unmatched Family Adventure Vehicle The 2019 Wolverine X4 delivers superior handling, especially on tight, technical trails, combined with legendary Real World Tough Yamaha durability and reliability.

The Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE transmission uses its own cooling intake to maintain proper temperatures, an over- sized belt to handle the torque of the large motor, and Yamaha’s unique sprag clutch to maintain constant belt tension—the end result is a drivetrain built for years of trou- ble-free service that leaves the competition in the dust.

The Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE offers a balance of work- ready functionality, refined comfort and trail-proven capa- bility that makes Yamaha the ultimate outdoor adventure partner.

With four high-backed seats, each with shoulder bolsters and automotive-style three-point seat belts, the Wolverine X4 provides a comfortable perch for everyone on board, even with four adults. More importantly, the Wolverine X4 offers plenty of foot room, including in the rear seats, which are mounted slightly higher than the front row for stadium-style seating and enhanced visibility for all. Mul- tiple cup holders, high-traction floorboards and adjustable driver seat and steering column round out the amenities.

Smooth, ultra-quiet power comes from a 847-cc twin cylinder engine while a compact, nimble chas- sis cradles the most versatile cab in its class with industry-exclusive stowaway full-size rear seats for expanded cargo capacity when needed. Ultra-smooth power delivery is offered up via Yamaha Chip Controlled-Throttle (YCC-T® ), a drive-by- wire system providing precise throttle control. Throttle response is further maximized by an innovative ‘high-response’ servomotor for ultra-fast throttle application, 12-hole fuel-injectors, and a high-volume airbox with two-stage air filtration. The Wolverine X4 also comes standard with a new Speed Manage- ment System, which limits the vehicle to a top speed of 25 MPH by simply turning a (removable) key, making it ideal for work sites and other specialized operating conditions. In addition to comfortably seating up to four adventure-seeking adults, the Wolverine X4 features an exclusive storage system with folding and sliding rear seats, expanding the versatility of the cargo bed area capable of carrying up to 600 pounds. Furthering its Capability and versatility, the Wolverine X4 is rated for a full 2,000 pounds of towing via a two-inch receiver hitch. Yamaha Real World Tech driver-centric features include On-Command 4WD, reliable Ultramatic CVT and industry-leading, speed-sensitive EPS. Advanced self-leveling rear shocks provide a plush ride, as well as help maintain optimized ground clearance based on the terrain and cargo. Built for all weather situations, the Wolverine X4 is also the only four-seat SxS to feature a true full hard cab option available direct from the manufacturer. Thanks to spiral- and helical-cut drivetrain gearing, its rubber-mounted and counterbalanced engine, and a variety of noise- and vibration-reducing features, the Wolverine X4 is one of the smoothest and quietest SxS vehicles ever built. All combined, the Yamaha Wolverine X4 is the most off-road Capable, Comfortable and Confidence inspiring four-seat trail exploring SxS. All Wolverine X4 models include overfenders and cast aluminum wheels. Standard color options in- clude Ridge Red (MSRP $16,449) and Realtree Edge (MSRP $16,899). Donning painted bodywork, col- or-matched interior and shock springs, Special Edition models are available in Backcountry Blue and Bolt Blue Metallic (MSRP $17,249).

Ridge Red

Realtree Edge

Backcountry Blue (Special Edition)

Viking and Viking VI: Hardworking, Dependable Farm and Ranch Hand Viking SxS models are well-appointed with Yamaha’s Real World Tech features including an Ultramatic fully auto- matic transmission providing the industry’s most dura- ble CVT transmission and natural-feeling engine braking, On-Command 2WD/4WD with full differential-lock, and EPS. Further benefits include a powerful 686-cc single cylinder engine, 11.8-inches of ground clearance, large diameter front and rear wheel disc brakes, and a large 9.7-gallon fuel tank for long rides or all-day work.

2019 Viking

The Viking’s comfortable three- or six-seat cab features automotive-style two-stage door latches, pass- through bucket seating, padded passenger handholds, dedicated angled floorboard foot positioning, and more. A reinforced rear steel cargo bed incorporates mounting points on the bed rails and a rubber cargo bed mat to reduce sound and vibration. Large enough for a fully-loaded pallet, the assisted dump bed can pack up to 600 pounds of equipment and supplies while retaining its supple ride and off-road capability. The standard two-inch receiver hitch is rated to pull 1,500 pounds – with or without a full load in the cargo bed. All three-seat Viking models come with a hard suntop. For colors, the standard Viking is available with- out EPS in Green (MSRP $11,999), with EPS in Green and Red (MSRP $12,999), as well as Realtree Edge (MSRP $13,899) with cast aluminum wheels. Added Viking variations with EPS include a Special Edition (MSRP $13,999) in Backcountry Blue with cast aluminum wheels and overfenders, and a Ranch Edi- tion (MSRP $14,199) in Metallic Sand with overfenders, center rearview mirror, hard suntop, under-seat storage, cast aluminum wheels, comfort-grip steering wheel, color-matched seats, and unique Ranch Edition badging.

Color options for standard Viking VI models include Green (MSRP $13,999) and Realtree Edge with alumi- num wheels (MSRP $14,899). The Viking VI Ranch Edi- tion (MSRP $15,599) includes a color-matched interior and soft suntop, under-seat storage, cast aluminum wheels, comfort-grip steering wheel, overfenders, cen- ter rearview mirror, rear bed grab bar, heavy duty front brush guard, and Ranch Edition badging. All Yamaha SxS vehicles are assembled with pride at Yamaha’s state-of-the art facility in Newnan, Georgia, and designed, engineered and tested in the Real World to deliver the durability, reliability and superior build quality off-road enthusiasts have come to expect from Yamaha. REALize Your Adventure and view addition- al details and specifications on Yamaha’s complete lineup of Proven Off-Road vehicles online at YamahaOutdoors.com, or by visiting your local Yamaha dealer.

2019 Viking VI

2019 Viking VI Ranch Edition EPS

BETHEL ANGLERS CLAIM CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE BY KYLE CURRY

330 of college fishing’s best anglers took to Pick- wick Lake with hopes of taking home the title, and only two competitors left with the championship trophy. Carter McNeil and Cole Floyd of Bethel Uni- versity are the winners of the 2018 BoatUS Colle- giate Bass Fishing Championship. Bringing 25.12 pounds to the scales on Day 2, McNeil and Floyd bested the field by more than six pounds with a two day total of 47.75 pounds. The Day 1 leaders entered the final day of tourna- ment competition with a slim lead over second place. Leading by 0.03 pounds, their margin of er- ror was small. “We knew we had to bust them. We knew we had some guys on our tail,” says Floyd. By 7:45 am their nerves began to settle. McNeil and Floyd had a limit weighing 11 pounds in the box

within the first hour and a half of tournament com- petition. From there on out, the pair went to work upgrad- ing their limit. Fishing multiple offshore spots, the Bethel anglers knew it was paramount to manage their fish, “We had several different schools of fish, and we went in with a gameplan. We’re going to take our best so many and we’re going to rotate them,” recounts McNeil. Working a variety of baits including crankbaits, soft plastics, and a jigging spoon, at around 8:15 am they culled up significantly. The team landed one fish weighing four and a half pounds, and an- other weighing six pounds. Those two fish catch- es boosted their bag well up over 19 pounds at the

time. “I think we managed our time right on it, and hit it at the necessary times. Just rotating them schools and jumping back and forth really paid off for us today,” said McNeil. Good decision making paid off to the tune of 25.12 pounds and a championship title for Carter Mc- Neil and Cole Floyd. With little to no experience on Pickwick Lake entering the event, Floyd is over- joyed with today’s result, “Just going out there and catching the winning bag on the place, it made it really special.” His fishing partner Carter McNeil is also overcome by their achievement, “It feels awe- some, this is what every college kid dreams of. We really focused, and grinded through practice and the tournament. We are fortunate and blessed to come up with some fish that got us this champi- onship.” BRYAN COLLEGE JUMPS FIVE SPOTS TO CLAIM SECOND. Finishing in second place when the scales closed was the Bryan College team of Nathan Bell and Cole Sands. Having fished this event before, Bell is pleased with how his boat finished, “I think my highest finish in this tournament has been a 94th. It’s kind of been my jinx in my college fishing ca- reer. We’re super thankful to come in second. It’s a big deal.” Entering today outside of the top five, sitting in seventh place, they were nearly four pounds out of first place. Our crew caught up with them mid-morning and the Bryan College pairing was working on a good bag. An early afternoon cull had Nathan think- ing they might have a shot at the title, “We got a big bite right there at the end that was able to cull us up about three and a half pounds. We were thinking, man we might have a shot but we didn’t know those guys were going to blast them.” At the end of the day, finishing second overall in a field made up of the nation’s best is still a major

Cole Floyd casts out a large spoon on Day 2 of the BOA- TUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s.

Cole Sands (right) boat flips a fish that unfortunately won’t help their cause.

Nathan Bell (left) Cole Sands (right) finished 2nd and walked away with $3,000 worth of contingencies as well as the prizes Bryan College won finishing 5th overall in the Cabela’s School of the Year Race presented by Abu Garcia.

accomplishment. The second member of the tandem, Cole Sands , understands the magnitude of this moment for his team, ” We’re ecstatic and extremely blessed to have this finish.” UNA HAS NO COMPLAINTS TAKING THIRD Rounding out the top three for the BoatUS Colle- giate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s is a pair of anglers from the University of North Alabama. Triston Crowder and Lake Blas- ingame weighed in 18.10 pounds to finish with a two day total of 40.70 pounds. The pair of local anglers entered today just 0.03 pounds outside of first place. Of the field entering today, they had the smallest margin to make up in order to claim first place. Although they would have liked to win, Crowder has no complaints about finishing in third, “I’ll lose to Nathan and Cole from Bryan, and I’ll lose to Cole and Carter from Bethel. They’re re- ally good fishermen. It just don’t bother me that they beat me.” Last year, the UNA team of Sloan Pennington and Hunter McCarty won this very tournament. There has never been a school repeat back to back as champion in this event, and these two entered to- day looking to capitalize on the opportunity. “We definitely wanted to win. Not only to keep the tro- phy here in Florence, but just because it’s been a dream of both of ours for a long time,” said Blas- ingame. Once the weights were finalized, Crowder and Blasingame fell shy of accomplishing their dream and making history, but they are pleased with their third place showing.

Triston Crowder of UNA picks up his trolling motor to head to their primary spot after making a quick stop in the morning of Day 2.

Lake Blasingame (left) and Triston Crowder (right) go home with $2,500 worth of contingencies along with a Cabela’s Gear Package.

To view the complete standings, click here .

University of North Alabama pose with their winnings as they take 2nd Place in the Race for the Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia.

BETHEL UNIVERSITY EARNS CABELA’S SCHOOL OF THE YEAR PRESENTED BY ABU GARCIA

Winning a single event and having your name in the headlines is the goal of every angler who has ever held a rod and reel in their hands. To sustain that type of success for a full season, is a dream come true. The true pinnacle of the sport, the Ca- bela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia is what each and every school is competing for starting at the beginning of the season. The Association of Collegiate Anglers manages the multifaceted Cabela’s School of the Year pre- sented by Abu Garcia. The program has been built to reward and recognize teams that compete on the water in numerous national level trails. De- signed to truly crown a school of the year champi- on based on performance, the winner of this title has earned the opportunity to be called the best of the best. The winner of the 2018 Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia is Bethel University. Run- ning away with the title in a dominating fashion, Bethel University proved they are the best of the best for the 2017-2018 school year. “The Lord has blessed us. We’ve been able to recruit throughout

the year some really great student anglers. These guys work hard all year long. Not just when they’re on the water, but both when they’re off the water and on the water. It’s just a blessing to get to come to these tournaments and do well,” says coach Garry Mason. The journey to the top began around this time last year, and culminated with a great performance at the 2018 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s.

Evan Owrey and Kristopher Queen pose for a photo with their fish that gave them a 11th Place finish in the 2017 BOATUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s.

To earn a year long title like the Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia, it takes a true team effort. Coach Mason says the team has had their sites set on this title since the fall, “We sat down with our guys at the first of fall, when they got there, and we said ok guys we’re setting our sites on school of the year. To me, this is the most prestigious award that any college team or program can win.” Through- out a full school year, a variety of circumstances can occur that cause people to miss tournaments, boat problems can occur, and even weather can play a factor. For a team to pull out the title, everything must go right with a little bit of luck mixed in. Bethel University’s team produced for them from top to bottom for the full year. “We’ve stayed consistent and we’ve done it with a lot of anglers, not just one or two. So our program is really deep and we’ve got a lot of really good anglers,” says Coach Mason.

At the first ACA event of the year, the Texas Lunker Challenge presented by Mossy Oak Elements, Bethel University began their charge for first place overall. Dax Ewart and Tyler Black were the top two finishers for Bethel University in this big bass format event. Ewart finished 10th place overall with 6.01 pounds, and Black claimed 20th with 4.60 pounds. Their efforts at Sam Rayburn Res- ervoir earned the school a total of 860 points. Bethel University left southeast Texas with the lead in the Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia, and the team never looked back. In Kentucky at the Cabela’s Collegiate Big Bass Bash presented by Berkley, Bethel added to their lead even more. This stop offered another opportunity for double points, and the hometown team capitalized on this chance. Brian Pahl weighed in a 9.22 pound fish to win Day One Session Four, and took the overall top spot for the event. Fellow teammate Ricky Harris also brought in a fish over the seven pound mark. Weighing in with 7.42 pounds, Harris claimed fifth place overall. Up to this point in the season, this was by far the most impressive performance by any one team in a given event. Bethel University left Paris, TN with 980 more points to go towards their yearly total. At this point, their lead stretched to more than 600 points over the nearest competitor. Bethel University’s success was not secluded to just ACA events. Fishing other major national trails, teams representing Bethel fin- ished in the top five at seven of the 12 other tournaments they fished. At the championship events for both FLW and B.A.S.S col- lege tournament series, Bethel teams finished third and second respectively. Of the seven top five finishes, the school managed to win one of those events. At Lake Seminole back in February, Cole Floyd and Carter McNeil won an FLW Southeastern Regional. As the year progressed, Bethel’s dominance became aparent as all

Dax Ewart holds up his 6.01 pound fish and walked away with 10th Place at the 2018 Texas Lunker Challenge present- ed by Mossy Oak Elements.

Brian Pahl stands tall with his 9.22 bass to win the 2018 Cabela’s Big Bass Bash presented by Berkley.

signs pointed towards Florence, AL and the 2018 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship pre- sented by Cabela’s, where a SOY champion would be crowned. Entering the final ACA tournament to count towards this year’s SOY race, Bethel University just need- ed not to zero as a team to claim the top spot. At the BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s, Bethel continued their dominant run. Juniors Cole Floyd and Carter McNeil won the entire event with a two day total of 47.75 pounds. After the scales closed, Bethel took both first and third place in the championship to salt away the SOY title. Coach Garry Mason acknowledges his team’s efforts and hard work, “We’ve stayed consistent and we’ve done it with a lot of anglers, not just one or two. So our program is really deep and we’ve got a lot of really good anglers. To set our sites on it, take it and win it, it means the world to all of us. Our team has what’s done it, our guys have worked really hard.”

Carter McNeil (left) and Cole Floyd (right) smile big along with their winning fish to be crowned champions of the 2018 BOATUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Cabela’s Just as soon as one year comes to an end, another begins. Members of the Bethel University fishing team immediately left Florence, AL to make their way to the next tournament on their schedule. The chase to be the best school in the sport never stops. Following the trophy ceremony at the champion- ship, Coach Mason and staff have already turned their focus to the 2018-2019 season in hopes of re- peating this accomplishment, “We’re going after this just as hard as we can go after it again next year.” Once the first tournament is in the books, the new standings will be released for the Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. To see the complete standings for the 2017-2018 Cabela’s School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia click here .

2260 BAY

The 2260 Bay Ranger® is ready for daylong trips inside and outside the bay with a 49-gallon fuel tank, a bow that’s designed to keep you dry in heavy chop, and an angler-friendly layout that lets you be as efficient on the water as possible. Performance isn’t an afterthought in the 2260; with a maximum horsepower rating of 200, you can burn up the flats to the next hot bite. Rear jump seats, ample storage and Ranger build quality make the 2260 a formidable and comfortable shallow- water companion. Order now or learn more by clicking here.

HIGH-PERFORMING HULL DESIGNED FOR SHALLOW WATER STEALTH

STORAGE-HEAVY INTERIOR DESIGN

PULTRUDED FIBERGLASS REINFORCED TRANSOM

WELCOME TO THE NEW CLASS OF EXTREME OFFSHORE POWER. TheYamahaV8 XTOOffshore™ is smarter, more pow- erful and more efficient than anything you’ve seen offshore. With groundbreaking design that allows for dockside serviceability and industry-first tech- nology such as an electric steering system, it’s keep- ing yacht-class craft in the water, and moving them more reliably and efficiently than ever before.

Watch the video here.

Smoked VENISON SAUSAGE BY ANGEL MIDDLETON

INGREDIENTS: Venison Sasuage Links Stuffings of your choice (cheese,bacon, etc) Hot Dog Buns or Tortillas DIRECTIONS: If desired, cut a small slice in each venison sausage length wise to place your slice of cheese or other stuffings.

Watch the Recipe Video by clicking the PLAY Button Icon.

Set your Bradley Smoker to 250°F

Place prepared venison sausage in your Bradley Smoker for roughly 2 hours.

Take smoked venison sausage out of Bradley Smoker and place in a hotdog bun or tortilla and add the topppings of your choice.

ENJOY!

GARMIN XERO BOW SIGHT NOW AVAILABLE! LASER RANGE FINDER

No more guessing about yardages in between pins. Xero A1 and A1i bow sights instantly provide the precise angle-compensated distance to game up to 100 yards away or up to 300 yards on reflective targets, at rest or full draw. LED PINS The beauty of using bright LED pins is that you can clearly see them over your target, unobstructed by physical pins. Xero A1 utilizes red LEDs while A1i gives you the option to use red or green LEDs. MULTIPLE ARROW PROFILES Xero A1i allows you to save pin settings for various bow configurations. Save settings for various draw weights, arrow weights and tips. Easily change be- tween fast arrows for 3-D and heavier arrows for hunting. SHOT DYNAMICS The Xero A1i bow sight includes additional infor- mation that can help improve archer performance. View data such as bow level at release, bow impulse duration and more.

Painstakingly engineered to withstand the world’s most grueling hunting conditions. For up-close looks from afar, rely on the brilliance and precision of Cabela’s Instinct™ optics. Premium glass and lens coatings optimize light transmission for the best possible low-light clarity.

CABELA’S INSTINCT™ EURO HD BINOCULARS

CABELA’S INSTINCT™ EURO RIFLESCOPES

Click the PLAY BUTTON above to watch the Cabela’s Instinct™ Line of Optics be used in a real life hunting situation in an Episode of the Yamaha Whitetail Diaries. ***Click the photo of the optic you want to learn more about*** t

CABELA’S INSTINCT™ EURO HD SPOTTING SCOPES

PERFORMANCE CENTER® INTRODUCES T/C® LONG RANGE RIFLE IN MULTIPLE CALIBERS, CONFIGURATIONS

Performance Center and Thompson/Center Arms™ announced the launch of a new bolt-ac- tion, chassis-style rifle – the Performance Cen- ter T/C Long Range Rifle (LRR). Co-developed by Performance Center and Thompson/Center Arms for extreme long range shooting, the Per- formance Center T/C Long Range Rifle is built on an aluminum chassis stock and is available in popular long range shooting calibers: .243 Win- chester, .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor. The new Per- formance Center T/C Long Range Rifle will be on display at Thompson/Center and Performance Center Booths (Booth #8555) during the NRA An- nual Meetings and Exhibits on May 4-6 in Dallas, Texas. Tony Miele, General Manager of Performance Center, said, “With the growing popularity of long range, precision shooting, we wanted to en- sure our customers had an option available from the Performance Center. We’ve teamed up with Thompson/Center to design the new Long Range Rifle, and are excited to combine Thompson/ Center’s bolt-action expertise with innovation that has become the hallmark of the Performance Center brand. ”

Chambered in .243 Win., .308 Win., and 6.5 Creedmoor, the new Performance Center T/C Long Range Rifle also includes a 20 MOA picat- inny-style rail and 5R rifled, fluted barrel for en- hanced accuracy. The new Performance Center T/C Long Range Rifle is built for the precision shooter, featuring an adjustable cheek piece and butt plate for a custom fit and built-in Magpul® M-LOK® slots for quick, easy mounting of acces- sories. The rifle features a threaded barrel with muzzle brake, and a Performance Center trigger that’s adjustable from 2.5 to 3.5 pounds for pre- cise tuning. Available in both a Black and Flat Dark Earth (FDE) finish, the new Performance Center T/C Long Range Rifle includes a one year limited warranty and lifetime service plan, ships with one 10-round detachable magazine, a Caldwell® Pic Rail XLA Fixed Bipod®, and soft case. The Performance Center T/C Long Range Rifle is priced at an MSRP of $1,211 in all calibers and configurations. To learn more about the Performance Center T/C Long Range Rifle, please click here .

Be “Mess Free” with Hunting Made Easy’s Face Paint. A long lasting non-glare face paint kit. The small compact unit that packs easily and is ready on demand.

CABELA’S GUIDEWEAR® MEN’S BOARD SHORTS WITH 4MOST REPEL™ • Coated in our 4MOST REPEL durable water-repellent finish • UPF rating of 50 • Fitted waist, drawstring and hook-and-loop closure • Zip-close cargo pocket has quick draining holes

cabelas.com

PURINA ANTLERMAX® WITH CLIMATE GUARD® SUPPLEMENT

Purina’s exclusive Climate Guard™ deer feed supple- ment helps support weight gain and body condition by encouraging feeding during heat stress events.

It’s formulated to provide antioxidants to support deer during climatic stress, like hot weather. It’s comprised of high quality ingredients that support rumen function, gut health and optimal nutrient utilization and supports digestibility of starch in the small intestine. purinamills.com

WOLVERINE STORAGE COVER Constructed of black ClimaShield Plus, all-weather fabric, this custom fit storage cover secures to the unit with elas- tic around the perimeter of the bottom edge. Helps protect your investment from the elements during storage. Fea- tures the Wolverine logo on front.

SEE WHAT YOU’VE BEEN MISSING

SHOOTING SYSTEMS

LITEWAVE® COMPSIGHT® BEAD REPLACEMENT FRONT SIGHT

The HIVIZ CompSight has become the standard for competitive shotgun shooters and is the choice of na- tional and Olympic champions. Utilizing a low-profile steel base, LiteWave CompSight offers all the advantag- es of the light gathering technology of LiteWave com- bined with the unsurpassed durability that the “wave” exoskeleton provides. Includes multiple diameters of LitePipes in green, red, and white along with a LitePipe storage/changing key.

hivizsights.com

SPEED THRILLS. ACCURACY KILLS. WELCOME TO THE NXT GENERATION .

GARMIN INREACH MINI inReach Mini is your go-to connection for maintaining off-the-grid con- tact. It’s our palm-sized satellite communicator for adventures where size and weight matter. inReach Mini lets you send and receive text messages, track and share your journey and, if necessary, trigger an SOS alert to contact the GEOS 24/7 emergency response team. With inReach connectivity, your family and friends will know they can stay in touch globally. garmin.com

ROPE HEARING ENHANCER A neck worn hearing enhancement that has a flexible rubber cord. Includes 3 sizes of foam tips for various shapes and sizes. Some Features Include: Sound Activated Compression High / Low compression mode Powered by Rechargeable Li-Ion battery Continuous Working Hours: 15 hours High Gain Omni directional microphones for clear sound enhancement

gsmoutdoors.com

A “QUICK” READ ON MINERAL BLOCKS

Click the button above to watch a short video the Quick Draw® Deer Block’s story of how it came to be and how to deploy it.

Designed to attract deer with its irresistible scent & flavorings. Designed in a 20 lb block, it attracts big bucks and helps keep deer coming back. It can also be used to supplement poor quality forage or habitat. Studies on the Quick Draw® Deer Block at- tractant show strong consumption, driven by a pro- prietary flavoring agent not found in any other deer block. Quick Draw® Deer Block is highly palatable with the irresistible scent and flavorings keeps the deer coming back to the area where you have deployed it. If you’re in an area where poor forage is all around, this will be a great supplemental feeding source of nutrients that your deer need!

www.purinamills.com

RACE TEAM BAG When the weather’s against you and the elements make everything un- predictable, one mistake can cost the race. But, in the right kit, anything is possible. Protect your Race kit against water and spray with our large capacity Race Team Bag. Durable, practical and 100% waterproof. Learn more here .

TURKEY BASS SMASH

STREAM THE FULL EPISODES

SPECIAL ICAST EDITION COMING SOON!

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SHOOTING SYSTEMS