The workshop, for women 18 years or older, emphasizes both safety and enjoyment of the outdoors and includes all meals, lodging, instruction, materials and equipment. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. If you go, be sure to bring your necessary camping gear as well as your essential outdoor survival kit.

Becoming an Outdoor-Woman workshop
May 28-30 | Drift Camp Creek, near Lincoln City
“Come join the fun and camaraderie of this charming camp nestled deep in the Coastal Range near Lincoln City while learning the outdoor skills that will help prepare you for a year of exciting new adventures.”
Cost: $130
Contact: Mark Newell, mark.newell@state.or.us

The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office has expanded the search after few clues have been found. Her car was found at the Bonneville Dam trailhead and a credit card receipt with Huether’s name on it was found near Table Mountain. Neither have resulted in finding the lost hiker.

Roughly 50 people have been searching since early Friday morning for the lost hiker. If you have any information that could help find Katherine Huether, please contact the Skamania County Sheriff’s office - (509)427-9490 | scso@co.skamania.wa.us

Be weather-conscious. Keep an eye on weather patterns around the area you plan on fishing. Unexpected rainstorms or cold fronts can turn an otherwise fun fishing trip into a nightmare.

Update your fishing gear. Water levels are often higher in spring due to rain and melting snow, so having a long fishing rod is a good idea. Use natural-looking bait whenever possible. Water clarity often improves during the spring because of the influx of fresh water, so having live or natural-looking bait helps tremendously.

Dress appropriately. Since spring weather is often unpredictable, it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Also, fish can be easily spooked by bright lights and colors. Dressing in drab colors may help you get more nibbles than normal.

Renew your fishing license. Nothing ruins a fine fishing trip like getting a ticket for not having a current license or for catching more than your limit.

Keep these spring fishing tips in mind, and you’re bound to have a fun, successful trip.

Consumers are becoming more savvy about the long-term payoffs of using this sustainable lighting alternative over traditional incandescent bulbs, the article adds. LED light bulbs last longer and use nearly 80 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, benefiting both your household budget and the environment. Learn more about the environmental benefits of LED lighting.

While outfitting your home with LED lights can cost more upfront, it can save you money in the long run. Here are some tips for converting your home lighting to LED bulbs:

• Use LED bulbs indoors in your hanging light fixtures, track lights, and lamps.
• Replace your outdoor floodlights with LED Leflector bulbs.
• Swap out your holiday lights for LED light strings.
• Consider LED accent lighting for your outdoor deck or patio.

“He had fallen several times, knocked himself unconscious at one point and lost his flashlight and cell phone,'’ said Don Taylor, the county’s search and rescue coordinator. “He’s an experienced outdoorsman, but if we hadn’t come on when we did, I’m not sure he would have made it.” (Read full Oregonian news story.)

Although Mahanna was found roughly two miles from his home, he was in dire need of attention and care. This story shows once again that even the most prepared and knowledgeable hunters must do everything they can to protect themselves, including:

• Having a well-stocked survival kit that you can carry easily.
• Carrying flares or other device to mark where you are and get the attention of search and rescue.
• Knowing your hunting destination and sticking to it – don’t wander off your intended route.
• Carrying multiple light sources, if possible, such as a flashlight and a headlamp – see LED lights available at DLK.
• Telling people where you are going and when you plan to return.

One of the easiest ways to turn an everyday backyard into party central is to turn on some fun, colorful LED lights. Durable and long-lasting, LED lights are now being offered in an array of colors and shapes that may be just what you need for your next festive occasion.

The Coast LED Earth Cube is a fun, funky way to light any room. The rainbow micro-LED base illuminates a beautiful globe pattern and is sure to be the talk of the party.

The Coast Montreal Light Tower is another great way to jazz up a room. The two-foot tower features three LED light chips that can be customized to produce a wide range of colors, from yellow to red to purple to blue. The tower also includes a transformer, so it runs off any standard electrical current.

The Coast V24 Light Stick Party Set is a great way to get your friends and guests in on the fun. The set comes with four colored light sticks and includes garden stakes, making backyard set-up a breeze. The lights stand a little over three feet tall and can be seen from up to three miles away.

When it comes to lighting up your barbeque or outdoor party with LEDs, you’re only limited by your imagination— and the length of your extension cord.

While there is speculation over why the sale of hunting licenses increased last year, some people say the recession is a contributing factor. With unemployment rates soaring all over the country, people have more time to go hunting and are more likely to take the less-expensive route of acquiring meat by going out and killing it themselves.

The NSSF’s study looked at the sale of hunting licenses in 11 states, including Oregon, New York, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, Louisiana, Tennessee, Minnesota, Indiana, Texas, and Utah. Nine of the states reported an increase in sales during 2009.

Have you purchased or renewed your hunting license for 2010 yet? Requirements, costs and duration vary from state to state. If you don’t know where to start, check out the “Licenses, Permits and Registrations” page on your state’s website, or ask someone in your local Parks and Recreation department for help.

Many hunting and fishing licenses can also be bought along with hunting gear at local sporting goods and outdoor supply stores. There are often even discount and free licenses available for senior citizens, long-time residents, and those with disabilities. As always, be sure to employ responsible hunting practices.

The new Tonquin Trail, funded in part by federal and state transportation grants and lottery funds, will cost an estimated $9.5 million to build and should take a few years to complete. The trail will open up pedestrian and bike access in Washington and Clackamas counties and, some hope, will encourage more people to use alternative methods of transportation. The Washington County Bicycle Transportation Coalition has put its two cents in, stating that the new trail will hopefully be used for much more than just recreation.

Thinking about getting out on the new trail when it’s complete? Make sure you have proper hiking equipment and dress appropriately for the weather. While the new trail will be paved and will run through populated areas, overexertion and dehydration are common problems wherever you hike or bike.

Make sure you drink plenty of water, and stop to rest at the scenic views along the new Tonquin Trail whenever you get tired. If you take the trail in the evening, bring a flashlight. LED flashlights are durable and have long battery lives, making them perfect for hiking your favorite new trail.

There’s a reason this show is known as The Big One. If you’re hooked on tackle, trophies, travel, or outdoor tech, there’s plenty here to reel you in.

A 35-year regional tradition, this all-in-one sporting show features hunting and fishing displays, interactive virtual outdoor tours using GPS and sonar, and free seminars on outdoor survival, camp cooking, bait rigging, and more. There’s also a trout pond where budding anglers can catch their first fish.

Huntsmen who have been busy this winter hunting season can bring their trophies for scoring in the Head & Horns competition, which attracts more than 300 entries each year. Prizes include Ruger rifles and a Fort Knox Guardian-22 gun safe; the top entries will be displayed throughout the show. You can also see how your trophy stacks up to the five world-record Columbia Blacktail deer that will also be on exhibit.

There’s a fly casting competition for anglers, as well as the chance to meet pro fisherman and guide Jack Glass. Each day is jam-packed with fishing demonstrations and seminars at the warm water demo tank.

A two-day pass costs $16, and you get $1 off for paying with cash. For more on scheduling, pricing and other details—including coupons—check out the Pacific Northwest Sportsmen’s Show website.

1.) Coast Fish Fillet Knife
This simple, sturdy knife features a partially serrated, 8-inch stainless steel blade that is tempered for the sole purpose of filleting. The rubber handle has finger contours to ensure a secure grip, and the knife comes with a handsome blade sheath.

2.) Angler Exchange Blade Fishing Set
This all-purpose stainless steel fishing blade set features a 6-inch filleting blade, 5-inch boning blade, and 4-inch serrated bait-cutting blade. All blades are interchangeable on the non-slip handle and fit inside the complimentary Nylon sheath.

3.) Folding Fishing Tool and 12-Piece Bit Set
This 24-function tool features stainless steel construction, forceps-nose pliers, scissors, crimpers, a wire cutter, and a partially serrated main blade. Each piece in the 12-piece bit set fits perfectly in the tool and comes in a handy storage pouch.

4.) Micro Fishing Flex LED Light
Say goodbye to cleaning fish in the dark. This brilliant LED light offers up to 35 hours of battery life, a high-quality LED beam, crystal reflector tube system, a 2.75 inch flexible neck and a pocket or cap clip.

5.) Fisherman’s Utility Kit
Two of the best fishing tools around in one handy kit. The 6 inch fish pliers crimp weights and sleeves as well as remove slip rings, while the utility shears can be used to cut just about anything. Both tools feature rubberized handles and Nylon pouch.

1.) Coast LED Lenser Lantern
Everyone knows that LED lights make the best emergency lights, and this is the cream of the LED crop. The LED Lenser battery lasts from 80 to 160 hours, provides brilliant white light, and features a dimmer switch and built-in battery level indicator.

2.) Coast P.T.T. Power Chip Torch
If the Lenser Lantern is king of the personal lanterns, then the P.T.T. Torch is king of handheld flash lights. At 7 inches, this reliable torch features a prism reflector system, aluminum casing, high-intensity LED, and runs on only 2 C batteries.

3.) Emergency Car Lenser
This rechargeable LED emergency light is great to have on hand at home as well as in the car. The light charges in your vehicle’s cigarette lighter and features a crystal reflector tube system, a high-quality Nichia LED beam, and a 3.875 inch refracting cone.

4.) Coast Flash Fire
Perhaps you’re predicament is a little more urgent than simply waiting for the power to come back on. You need the Flash Fire, a small, powerful flashing LED light that features Coast’s amazing crystal reflector tube system. You’ll be hard to miss with this high-quality LED by your side.

More on building your home emergency kit

1.) LED Commander ($15.99)
This simple, handy 10-function tool includes a brilliant LED light, scissors, stainless steel blade, screwdriver tips, and other features. Perfect for the casual outdoor enthusiast.

2.) Coast Adventurer ($16.00)
With quite a few more features than the Commander (including hole punch and wire stripper), the Adventurer remains compact and lightweight, perfect for a hiking or camping adventure.

3.) Coast Workman ($23.00)
Made just for outdoor enthusiasts who aren’t afraid of getting their hands dirty, this pocket tool includes traditional features as well as a mini saw and slotted screwdriver tips.

4.) 10-Function Pocket Tool ($14.40)
A sturdier, heartier version of the LED Commander, this tool has a stainless steel handle with rubber inserts, key ring, precision knife blade and LED light. It’s functional, affordable, and tough as nails.

5.) 23-Function Carpenter’s Knife ($20.00)
The mother of all pocket tools, the Carpenter’s Knife includes a removable level, an 8 piece mini bit set, stainless steel tools, rubberized handles, and a removable LED light. There is hardly a job that this pocket tool can’t handle.

Replacement Bulbs
Many companies offer replacement bulbs for your favorite flash light brands, but types of bulbs are they actually offering? When looking into replacement bulbs, consider an LED. LED bulbs provide brilliant light and last a lot longer than traditional bulbs, meaning you’ll be replacing the bulb less often.

Replacement Batteries
Traditional batteries are expensive, short-lived and extremely harmful to the environment. The next time you need replacement batteries, choose rechargeable batteries. Replacement rechargeable batteries are relatively inexpensive and can be used over and over, saving you money.

Replacement Tools and Accessories
Okay, so you’re probably not going to be able to fix the chipped blade on your stainless steel bowie knife, but there are many outdoor tools and accessories that can be replaced. Sheaths, clips, game shears, thermometers, and compasses are only a few of the crucial outdoor accessories you can replace for a discounted price.

Outdoor Lights
LED light fixtures are being used more and more in landscaping and outdoor light designs, and for good reason. The brilliant, low-energy light that LEDs provide is perfect for lighting walkways, pools, porches, and yards. LED flood lights and motion-activated lights also provide great night security.
More on the environmentally-friendly benefits of LED Lights

In-Home Lights
LED lights are being used in desk lamps, track lighting, hanging light fixtures, and colorful light displays. LED light bulbs last up to 30 times longer than regular bulbs. LED bulbs also emit a higher percentage of light, meaning it takes less bulbs to light a room.
More on Home LED Lighting Designs

Emergency Lights
When it comes to emergency lighting, nothing beats an LED. Not only do they provide great illumination and last for years, but they come in all shapes and sizes. From compact flash lights to personal lanterns to hand-held light cannons, LED emergency lights are just what you need if you’re ever left in the dark.
More on LED lights for emergency situations

Discontinued and Overstock Items
Buying discontinued items is a great way to save big bucks on name brands. Discount Lights & Knives offers many great discontinued LED lights and tools at low prices, such as the Coast stainless steel forceps kit ($4), Coast DigiTac 1 LED flashlights ($20), and the Hollywood Moon desk lamp ($45).

Bargain Combo Packs
Buying your tools in combo packs is another great way to save money. Check out the Coast Fisherman’s Utility Kit ($19.20) or the 3-Tool Exchange Blade Cutlery Kit ($20), great combos for low prices. Buying in bulk has never been more fun!

Daily Low Prices
The best way to save money is to find the lowest price on exactly what you want. Whether you’re looking for LED lantern batteries, flashlight bulbs, or a Bowie knife, Discount Lights & Knives can help. With discounts of up to 85% on many name brand items, Discount Lights & Knives will definitely help make your dollar last.

Here are three common resolutions and some suggestions to help you keep them.

Saving money
With tax season around the corner, finances are on everyone’s mind. Save some money this year by replacing your home’s halogen lights with LED bulbs, which can run 20-50 times longer and cost only 30 cents a year to run. Find more cost-cutting tips by reading Saving Money on Energy This Winter.

Getting more exercise
If the treadmill makes you snooze and all those machines at the gym are just too complicated, head outside. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. By spending just a few hours outdoors, you’ll end up getting exercise without even realizing it.

Helping the environment
You can’t save the planet in just one year, but you can make small changes that add up. For example, when you camp this year, make your trip as green as possible by using solar-powered equipment and LED light sources. Discover more environmentally-friendly camping techniques with Green Camping: How to Enjoy the Outdoors Environmentally-Friendly.

1. UFO Light: Not only is this incredibly bright light powerful enough to signal the mother ship, but its UFO-shaped metal casing makes it the perfect accessory for any geek’s keychain.

2. Industrial Power Moon Headlamp: When both hands are needed, a headlamp makes sense for lighting a dark job. With an LED beam, 85 hours of battery life, and adjustable rubber straps that can fit over a helmet, this model is fit for Darth Vader himself.

3. 7-Function Pocket Tool: A good geek knows to be prepared for any situation. This pocket tool has a knife, scissors, and tweezers, as well as screwdrivers for taking things apart and putting them back together.

4. Clip Light: The handy clip on this high-quality LED beam makes it easy to attach to books, shelving, and other surfaces. It’s perfect for reading Tolkien in the dark or fiddling with wires behind a computer.

5. Dino Moppel: The magnetic feet on this high-tech desk lamp allow it to stick to metal surfaces such as filing cabinets or refrigerators, while the flexible neck can be tweaked to direct an LED beam wherever it’s needed, without causing glare on the computer screen.

Between now and December 31, you can recycle your old holiday light strings at the Zoo Store to make room for more environmentally-friendly LED strings, which use only a fraction of the energy of traditional lights and don’t heat up, fade in color or burn out the way conventional bulbs do.

The Oregon Zoo has been using LEDs for its ZooLights displays since 2000. More than half of its 1.25 million lights are now LEDs, which use only about one percent of the power of standard holiday lights and ten percent of the power of mini-lights.

Replacing holiday strings isn’t the only way to become more energy-efficient. LED lights can take the place of other lights around your home, including desk lamps. To find out more about the advantages of LED lighting in the home, read Environmental Benefits of LED Lighting at Home.

Micro Tool Box, $10.
This infinitely useful and utterly portable micro-tool includes a knife blade, saw blade, scissors, an assortment of screwdrivers and three common wrench sizes. It folds down to two-and-a-half inches and comes with a key ring so it’s easy to pack along on a camping, hiking, or hunting adventure.

Super Hunt Entries, $6.
Each year, Idaho offers a lottery in which big-game hunters can win tags to hunt one elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, or moose during any open hunt in the state. Past Super Hunt winners have called it the hunt of a lifetime. More than 30 winners will be chosen during two drawings, the first of which takes place June 15. Entries are $6 for the first and $4 for each additional purchased at the same time. Or for $20 you can try for a Super Hunt Combo tag to hunt all four species.

Folding Saw, $10.
Whether they’re field dressing a kill, improvising a hunting blind, or clearing a campsite, this stainless steel blade with double cut teeth will make the job easier. It comes with a lanyard and rubberized grip.

Zipper Pull with LED, Compass, Thermometer, $9.60.
Keep a loved one from getting lost on the trail with this combination zipper pull.

Keep in mind that hunters who pursue wolves after Dec. 31 will need a 2010 wolf tag and hunting license. For more information on hunting wolves in Idaho, or to find out which state zones are still open, visit the Idaho Fish and Game website.

If you decide to get in on the extra-long season, here are some tips on wolf hunting to ensure success and safety:

• Watch for tracks on roads and trails; wolves regularly traverse them, just like hunters. Wolves will walk single file in each other’s footsteps, so what may appear to be a single wolf could be a pack.
• Pay attention to the behavior of deer and elk. If they are alert, it could mean a wolf is nearby.
• Listen to the way the wolves communicate. A well-timed howl could draw one in.
• Make sure you have a strong, sharp hunting knife with a sturdy blade for field dressing.
• Idaho law requires you to report within 24 hours of harvesting a wolf and to present the hide and skull to a Fish and Game official within five days.
• Do not skin a mangy wolf. Instead, tag it and report the kill to Fish and Game.

Check out this article on Big Game Hunting for more advice about field dressing a large kill.

Whether the holidays have put you in a giving mood or your New Year’s resolution includes helping the community, trail maintenance is a great way for even the most casual outdoor enthusiast to give something back. One way to get involved is to join a volunteer work party.

The Washington Trails Association is looking for volunteers to help maintain hiking trails during several work parties throughout December and January. The goal is to repair tread and improve drainage in certain county, state, and federal parks across Washington. No experience is necessary, as training and tools are provided.

Work parties typically last from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To volunteer for a particular date or location, you’ll need to sign up via the WTA website at least 48 hours in advance. If you do join a work party, make sure you show up prepared with the proper attire:

• Long pants to protect your legs from brush and swinging tools.
• A long-sleeve shirt for arm protection.
• Sturdy boots, such as hiking boots or, preferably, work boots. Tennis shoes don’t offer adequate protection from a dropped rock or heavy tool.
• Gloves to prevent pinched fingers and blistered palms.
• As always when you’re out in the woods, it never hurts to have a good multi-tool on hand, such as the C2795 10 Function Micro Multi-Tool.

For other safety tips while you’re out on the trail, check out these Winter Hiking Precautions.

Everything is ready. The kids are layered up in case they get too hot or too cold. The backpacks have first aid kits and water in them; one of them has picnic food in it. Your friend knows where you and your family are going, all the details, and knows to call 9-1-1 if you are not back by midnight. You even remembered your cell phone this time.

You arrive and everyone is excited to be there–the kids are ready to run all over the place. After slowing them down, one gets his pants snagged on a thick blackberry vine. No problem: you’ll just grab your knife and pull it away. That way you don’t get stuck with thorns and the kid won’t either. But there is just one problem: you forgot your knife. You resort to trying to pull the furious vine away with your hands. That doesn’t work, so you try picking the kid up to see if the vine will fall, which it does, but it ends up getting stuck on you. Everyone but you thinks this is funny.

The family makes it to the picnic destination and you are ready to make sandwiches. The cheese is brought out, but it is not pre-sliced. Without your knife, you have to resort to trying to break little chunks off the cheese, which keep falling out from between the slices of bread that have had mayonnaise spread on to them with your finger. The kids brought marshmallows to roast, so the new adventure is trying to find a stick that is thin enough to use for each of them since you cannot exactly whittle one down to size. You’ll definitely remember to bring your knife next time.

Knives are one of the most important tools one can have if they are going to spend any time outdoors. The ideal knife is one that is made of steel, is versatile, strong, and fits in one’s hand well. Folding knives are a great choice for anyone as they are more compact and have a speed lever so they can be opened quickly. Many folding knives can clip on to a person’s belt so they are easily accessible…if you remember to take it with you.

Below are a few great, versatile knives perfect for the outdoors man or woman on your shopping list this holiday season.

The C22 Z-Frame Folding Knife: A titanium coated 440C stainless steel drop point blade that is 3.5 inches long when closed and includes a belt clip for easy carrying.








The Grandpa Brands Burnt Bone Lockback Folder: A clip point blade stainless steel folding knife with a stag bone handle and brass lining and rivets. This is a beautiful knife, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast’s stocking.

Guys can have as many multi-tools as girls have purses: one for every occasion and instance. One can be kept with SCUBA gear, in the glove box of the car, a toolbox, in a motorcycle’s storage case, with camping gear, etc. The thing that makes this gift so popular and versatile is its practicality and durability. Another bonus is that they are light weight. Carrying all of these individual tools on a hiking trip could really weigh a person down, but a multi-tool provides most of the tools one would need while taking up a minimal amount of space in a backpack. Seriously—who could not use a can opener and mini-saw that is held together with a pair of pliers? With a multi-tool there is no need to search the house or rummage through a tool kit for a screwdriver, flashlight, awl, wire stripper, and wire cutter when they can all be in one place.

Don’t wander around stores in hopes you’ll find the perfect gift for the picky guy in your life. Go with a multi-tool: he’ll thank you for it.

Below are a few great Multi-Tool Options

C2795 10 Function Micro Multi-Tool: This Coast multitool has a dual layer comfort aluminum handle and includes pliers, a wire cutter, a small Phillips screwdriver, springless scissors, a small slotted screwdriver tip, a knife blade, a saw blade, a cap lifter, and wire stripper.
Size: 2.75 inches closed.
Price: $12.00




C5799 Multi-Tool with LED Light: This multi-tool includes an LED light embedded in the handle in addition to pliers, a wire cutter, a main knife blade, a file blade with wire stripper, a flathead screwdriver, an awl, a flathead screwdriver, a can opener with screwdriver tip, a Philips screwdriver, a wire stripper, a saw blade, and scissors. If you buy from LightsAndKnives.com, you will also receive the C2899 LED Micro Pliers for free.
Size: 4 inches
Price: $39.99

• Preparing for a hike does not only mean packing enough granola bars and water, it also means planning on survival. This means knowing where you are going and your route, someone else knows where you will be and when you should be home, knowing the weather forecasted, having a cell phone and/or a personal locator beacon (to use only in emergency situations), being up to date with all your shots, and a survival kit.
• Survival kits should be:
• Small enough to carry
• Water-proof
• Sturdy
• Versatile enough to have different-sized items
• Survival kits should contain at least:
• First aid items: bandages, gauze, surgical tape, wet naps, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, safety pins, tweezers, surgical blade, butterfly sutures, etc.
• Shelter items and a foil/solar blanket
• Water-purifying tablets
• Things to light a fire: matches (waterproof) and/or a lighter
• Signaling items like a mirror, whistle, flare, etc.
• Food and food procurement items: snare wire, fish and snare line, bouillon cubes, etc.
• Compass
• Candle
• Anti-diarrhea and anti-infection medications
• Lip balm
• Knife
• Multi-tool
• Pencil and paper: if you veer from your original route, let rescuers know where you have gone or can be found.
• A list of important phone numbers in case you are lucky enough to have cell service.
• Orange flag tape
• Nylon cord
• Bandana
• Duct tape
• LED flashlight
• Sun block
• Plastic zipper bags to help keep items dry or to hold water

A prepared hiker is a surviving hiker that is not featured on the evening news about how things should have been done. Planning ahead is the most invaluable strategy any outdoor enthusiast can have.

• Know where you are going and what you are doing. What is the geography and environment like? Make plans according to the terrain, weather and equipment. Plan your route and make sure someone back home what these plans are.
• Maximize your warmth. Keep your head covered at all times as not doing so can make you lose 40-45% of your body heat. Keep your neck, wrists, and ankles covered as well.
  Other tips top keep warm, which were adapted from the U.S. Army Survival Manual include:
  ** Keep your clothes clean
  ** Do not get overheated
  ** Layer your clothing and wear them loosely
  ** Keep your clothes dry

• Don’t panic.
• Always think ahead: set up camp early; make sure you have enough firewood. Thinking ahead about little things like this can help things seem a little easier.
• Do not travel in a blizzard or whiteout conditions: it is hard to judge the terrain in these conditions.
• Be careful when crossing ice: lay flat and crawl across instead of walking.
• Do not travel in deep snow if possible. If one does have to travel in deep snow, do not travel over bodies of water that are snow-covered or in areas that look prone to avalanches.
• Do not give up hope.

Surviving in the cold is one of the harder things stranded hikers have ever had to endure. The cold can weaken a person’s ability to think clearly, numbs the body, and is very unpredictable. Using all of the tips you have learned about hiking safety and adapting them to cold weather conditions can be the difference between life and death.

More winter survival tips:

Oregon Live Article
DLK Article: Five Winter Hiking Precautions

• Consider the light: The end of daylight savings means shorter days. Make sure you return from day hikes with plenty of daylight left to start a campfire or set-up camp. Bring a good light source like an LED lantern (we like the Coast LED Lenser TT7105) that has a long battery life and bright light.
• Remember the cool nights: The weather may be mild during the day but the fall nights can get cold. Bring warm clothes to sleep in and consider a warmer sleeping bag.
• Be Prepared for the Unexpected: The fall weather can be unpredictable at times. Make sure to have water-proof gear where possible and pack plenty of extra provisions in your survival kit in case the weather traps you.

More Fall camping trip tips

Coyote attacks are extremely rare, but not unheard of. Experts suspect that the coyotes mistook Taylor for a deer or other prey. Any hiker should be aware if they plan to be hiking in places with a coyote population and take the appropriate precautions. Below are some suggestions to keep yourself safe.

1. Avoid hiking between dusk and dawn as this is when coyotes are the most active.
2. Bring along a hiking survival kit that includes pepper spray or a pocket knife (check out the Coast Colt folding knife) to protect yourself.
3. If camping, don’t leave food or water out which may attract coyotes to come closer.
4. Aggressive coyotes are usually trying to protect their prey or family. Try to scare the coyote by yelling and waving your arms. Throw rocks, sticks or other objects.
5. Do not turn away and run if encountering a coyote

Learn more
Mountain Lion Safety
Grizzly Bear Attacks and Safety
Winter Hiking Precautions

Photo courtesy of the Kirkland Highlands’ Real Estate Buzz

Eugene Area Mushroom Hike
November 8, 2009 | 8:30am – 5:00pm
Naturalist Wendell Wood will guide hikers through 3 to 5 miles of flat, forest areas to discover mushrooms in the wilderness. The location will be determined based on the weather conditions (carpool from Eugene)
Cost: $9:00
Contact: Chandra LeGue, cl@oregonwild.org

Helpful Resources
Hiking in the Northwest
Five Basic Safety Precautions for Winter Hikers
Hiking With Your Dog

While I am sure that the downturn does have some impact on this rising number of hunters, I doubt it means that hunters are out spending a lot of money on expensive gear. While money may be available for a license, pennies are most likely being pinched for any extras. That’s why it is good that there are several hunting knives available today that can get the job done and are priced moderately.

Below are a few of our favorites.

The C927 Stainless Steel Bowie Knife by Coast
14″ full length
Hardwood handle
Brass Guard/Pommel
Priced at $48.00USD

The C602 Stainless Steel Skinning Knife by Coast
8.5″ full length
Hardwood handle
Brushed Stainless Steel Guide/Pommel
Priced at $20.00USD

The C652 Stainless Steel Hunting Blade by Coast
4″ blade
Hardwood handle
Brass accents
Priced at $16.00USD

Regardless, the reporting process is quick and painless and does actually help the sport as a whole if hunters would take the time to do it. Below is what you need to know to report your hunts to the ODFW.

Online:
Go to www.dfw.state.or.us
Click on hunting
Click on Mandatory Reporting OR My Hunter Information

Phone:
(866) 947-6339

You’ll need this information for reporting:

• Hunter/Angler ID number
• Two-digit Wildlife Management Unit number of unit hunted the most
• Number of days hunted
• Number of day shunted in the WMU

Other Resources
A Hunter’s Must-Have Multi-Tool
A Tactical Torch Great for Hunting This Fall