Lansky Deluxe 5 Hone Sharpening System

Lansky Deluxe 5 Hone Sharpening System
By Mike Bell, Sportsmen Portal Field Staff

Cost
$32.49 online

Product features

• Patented, precision-engineered, multi-angle flip-over knife clamp
• Sharpening hones on color-coated, finger-grooved safety holders
• One guide rod for each honing stone
• Specially formulated honing oil
• Extra long knife clamp screws
• Custom molded storage/carrying case to hold all system components
• Complete easy-to-follow multi-lingual instructions

Lansky sharpening angles

• 17 degree – A severe angle recommended for razor blades, X-Acto blades, scalpels or similar tools.  Provides an extremely sharp but delicate edge.
• 20 degree – A commonly used angle for higher quality blades and provides an excellent edge for kitchen cutlery and filet knives
• 25 degree – The recommended angle for most knives that need a durable, sharp edge.  Ideal for hunting and outdoor knives
• 30 degree – An outstanding angle for knives that see the heavy use of cutting cardboard, wire or carpets.  Recommended for heavy duty use.

Personal Assessment of product

Until coming across the Lansky Sharpening System, I was never able to put a sharp durable edge on my knives.  I’ve tried whetstones and though I could put a serviceable edge on my knife, it was never truly sharp.  I had friends, and family who were willing to sharpen my knives for me, but I was always bothered by not being able to do it myself.  I came across the Lansky Sharpening System from a co-worker.  He was telling me about his knife sharpening kit and offered to let me try one of my knives on it.  After receiving the kit and a few instructions from my friend, I gave it a shot.  I took the system home that evening and brought my dull hunting knife to a razor sharp edge on my first try.  This was the first time I was able to get a truly sharp edge on my hunting knife.  I was amazed at how easy this system was to use and purchased a Lansky that night.  After receiving my system in the mail, I had all my hunting knives honed and ready for the upcoming hunting season.  The great thing about this sharpening system is that it takes the “art” out of sharpening knives.  Just put your knife in the clamp, decide what angle you want on your blade, attach the rods to the hones, and use the slots built into the clamp to bring you knife to a razor sharp finish.  Though I already had an idea how to use the sharpening kit, the instructions were thorough and easy to follow.

Product Limitations

There are only a couple of things I could mention as “limitations” when using the Lansky Knife Sharpening Systems.  This system is used by running a hone over the knife as the fixed surface, as compared to running a knife over a whetstone as the fixed surface.  A little more care is needed when using the Lansky Sharpening System. The same friend, who introduced me to this kit, also cut himself bad when the hone slipped off the blade and ran his finger into the knife edge.  This is completely avoidable ,and the system is safe to use, but always use care when dealing with knives.  Also when doing large knives (above 6-7 inches) it is recommended to do ½ of the knife at a time.  When trying to sharpen the whole knife at once, the angle changes too much and the rods might not be long enough.  I have done our chef’s kitchen knife ½ at a time, and though it took a little longer, the end result was great.

Recommendation

The Lansky Sharpening System is easy to use and has brought out razor sharp edges on knives I have never been able to get sharp before.  The process of sharpening my knives before owning the Lansky Sharpening System had been frustrating and often times impossible.  After using this system, I believe this product would work great in any outdoorsmen’s home.

To Those That Wish to Give Back

By Don Ott, Sportsmen Portal Field Staff

I won't be redundant in the thanks to everyone involved with the September 19, 2009 3-D Benefit shoot. But as we know if it weren't for those people that see the good in all people and the importance of God in our daily lives the world we live would be in worse condition.   Without our sponsors and those of you who want to make a difference none of this would of been possible.

The preparation for the day was very time consuming. Once you see the outcome and the day comes to an end you can feel the relief and sensation of a task well done.

Once again there were many firsts as are with the great outdoors we all cherish so much.  New friends, old acquaintances, first time shooters, young and old combating the same passion united as one, and smiles that will last a lifetime.  Being blessed with the presence of Tina Pattison, Hunt of a Lifetime Founder, Arianna Evans one of our Hunt of a Lifetime children. Allowing the unknown person to experience the wow factor.

As I listened to so many people comment about the day and ask how to "Get WIRED".  They are pumped and now hopefully they ARE "WIRED".

To those that weren't able to attend you can still be apart of our wonderful family. Get involved, get "WIRED", and continue your support.  Thank you all for your kindness.

Take time to take a friend, loved one or a first timer and introduce them to our wonderful sport.



Above, Pat Gonsman, United Bow Hunters of PA



Sportsman Portal Field Staff, (from left to right), Don Ott, Teresa Patterson, Kyle Schwabenbauer and Andy Traister with Arianna Evans in the center. Arianna was presented with a plaque made by Joanie Haidel, Joanie's Beard Busting Calls.



Buying raffle tickets for prizes.



The "running deer crew", Jimmy Patterson (Teresa's son) and his good friend Nick Eberhardt.



Rex Fahr (right) Teresa's dad organized the 3-D shoot, and Brenda Martz, President of the Loop Sportsman Club.



Tina Pattison's son, Jaimie and his daughter shooting her bow.



The running deer target group effort



Arianna driving her chariot.



Wendy and Mark Blystone some of our "Wired Fans" from Facebook and My Space came out to join us for the shoot that day.



Rex, Jr. (Teresa's brother) and his wife, Larissa Fahr enjoy the concession.





Thanks to all our sponsors.





Jimmy Young and crew came out to support the cause.



Is he milking that deer???



East Coast Archery Manager talking with John Ott.



The "gut gang"



Tanner enjoying the ride.



Ben Fahr (Teresa's brother) and John Lubert out for the shoot.



Nice Sportsman Portal fan truck!

Cabelas Advanced Angler Pro Series Drift Sock

By Mike Bell, Sportsmen Portal Field Staff





Cost
Drift sock  $19.99 – $44.99

Drift sock Harness $9.99 with purchase of sock

Product features

Fast drying 420 – denier oxford nylon
Weights and floats sewn in for easy opening
Recommended for winds up to 15 mph
Winds over 15 mph… add another drift sock to your setup
Extremely puncture resistant
Drift sock harness with float is $9.99 with purchase of drift sock

Personal Assessment


I have been using the Cabela’s Advanced Angler Pro Series drift sock for a couple years now, and I consider it a must have when drift fishing.  I position myself at the top of the area I want to drift and throw the sock into the water attaching it to a cleat on the boat.  The weights and floats, sewn into the sock allow it to open quickly and position the sock when in the water.  One of my favorite lakes to fish always seems to have a chop and blows up often.  Without the drift sock, fishing this lake would be difficult on most days and impossible on others.  As everyone knows, when drift fishing or trolling, presentation is what puts fish in the boat.  The drift sock greatly increases my odds by slowing my baits down and holding them in front of the fish longer.  I also purchased the harness with the float for $9.99 and found it well worth the price.  Attach the harness to your sock and you have the capability to disconnect the drift sock from your boat should you hook into a big fish and don’t want the sock in the way.   After landing the fish motor back to the float on the harness and recover your sock.  The Cabela’s Drift Sock is definitely a great product and well worth the price if you want controlled drifts in the wind.

Recommendation

The Cabela’s Advanced Angler Pro Series Drift Sock has helped me boat many fish by slowing up my presentation and allowing me the control I otherwise wouldn’t have on a windy day.  The durability and construction of this product is just as impressive as its benefits on the boat.  After two years of use, the Cablea’s drift sock looks as if I just took it out of the box.  Overall, I would consider the Cabela’s drift sock an essential item when tackling choppy waters while drift fishing or trolling.

First Ice & First Timers

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• Shappell DX3000 Ice Shanty


• Fin-bore III 8” Hand Auger


• Schooley’s Spring Bobber Poles


• Coleman Perfectflow Stove


• Medalist Silvermax Silkweight Base Layers


• Medalist Silvermax Max Packable Waterproof Pants


• Medalist Silvermax Stalker Jacket


• Medalist Silvermax Watchman’s Cap


• Lacrosse Alpha Burly Boots

With winter’s somewhat early arrival, it seems like I’ve been waiting a long time for safe ice in these parts of the state.  Thankfully, last week’s deep freeze has provided plenty!  My good friend, Chad,  has been wanting to take his son Skylar out for his first ice fishing trip, and despite the strong winds and driving snow last weekend, we were all too eager to stay home.

Skylar and Chad were all smiles on their first ice fishing trip.

Not wanting to miss a second of the Steelers playoff game that night (and we were glad we didn’t… what a game!), we opted for a short trip to a small private lake near my house.  We came close to getting the truck stuck on the way there, but my stellar driving skills kept us from being stranded.  Once we arrived, the ice was 7-8” thick, with about 18” of snow on top.  Skylar had a hard time maneuvering in the deep snow, but wasn’t about to let that stop him as he excitedly stumbled onto the ice.  After a bit of shoveling, we had the holes drilled and the shanty in place.

Skylar did the catching, Chad did the unhooking.

With the cold temperatures and deep snow, we decided to leave the tip-ups in the bucket and stick to jigging.  After baiting the hooks and explaining the basic workings of a spring bobber pole, we were fishing.  The bite was slow at first, but as the afternoon wore on, the fish began to cooperate.  Skylar was the first to score and hauled a fat bluegill through the ice.  His patented “4 turns off the bottom” technique seemed to do the trick and he had a second gill on the floor before either Chad or I had a nibble.

Skylar and Chad proudly show off their first gills through the ice.

In between fish, Skylar kept us entertained with a variety of questions and comments, including, “Let’s put the waxworms in the fire” and “How come you guys aren’t catching any fish?”
Skylar’s constant taunting prompted us to concentrate a little harder, and we finally redeemed ourselves with a couple of bluegill of our own.  After all, we couldn’t go home until everyone had caught a fish.

Although it wasn’t one of my best days from a numbers standpoint, it was great to introduce some new ice fishermen to the sport.  Nothing beats the enthusiasm that youngsters have during their first experiences afield.  It even reminded me of my first ice fishing trip when I was seven years old.  Of course, that was back when I was still wide-eyed and every trip outside held the promise of a new adventure.   I guess some things never change.  Good luck to all of the hardwater anglers!

Mister Twister Electric Fisherman Fillet Knife

Product Review by Mike Bell, PSP Field Staff

Cost
$20.99 Online

Product Features

• Knife contains:


• Heavy duty gears and bearings


• Extra sharp stainless steel blades 7”


• Quick and convenient blade release


• Safety lock


• High impact motor housing


• Handy recoil cord


• Runs on 110V AC (standard electrical outlet)

Personal Assessment
Recently I went to a local lake and did surprisingly well on crappie, bluegill and even a few nice sized perch.  I was hoping to catch a few fish for a fish fry and ended up keeping about 25 panfish.  I absolutely love to fish and feel there is no better food than beer battered fish with home cut French fries, but one of my least favorite activities is filleting fish.  Since purchasing the Mister Twister Electric Fisherman fillet knife several years back, I’ve cut my time in half getting better fillets with much less waste.  My technique to fillet using the Mister Twister Knife is to lay the fish flat with the backbone facing me: cut just behind the gill to the backbone, turn knife and cut through the ribs along the backbone to the tail, flip and skin the fillet in one motion.  Flip the fish and do the same on the other side.  After doing a couple of fish you can get into a rhythm and before you know it you’ve just finished filleting your last fish.   After finishing I remove the ribcages with any sharp knife, wash the fillet well, and put the fillets into a container for freezing.  To be fair, I’ve only used this knife on panfish, walleye and the occasional trout, but this knife has performed flawlessly without a hint of trouble since I’ve purchased it.  My blades have held up great through the years but if necessary, Mister Twister sells replacement blades (7or 9 inch) should your originals dull.

Product Limitations
There is only one limitation I could come up with when thinking about the uses for this product.  I know I’m stating the obvious, but you need an electrical outlet to use this fillet knife.  There are cordless electric fillet knives out there and I’ve used them, but in my opinion, they are not near as powerful and the battery life on the model I used was poor.  There was no comparison between my Mister Twister knife and this other cordless model I used on a fishing trip to New York.

Recommendation
I would recommend this product to any fishermen, from those who like to take a few home every once in a while, to those who eat their catch on a regular basis.  This knife is inexpensive, durable, and makes a nasty job much easier and quicker to accomplish.  In my honest opinion, Mister Twister makes the best and most powerful electric fillet knife on the market.

Plano SoftSider System (Fishing Tackle Bag)

Product Review by Mike Bell, PSP Field Staff

Cost
$27.99

Product Features

• Large Tackle Bag


• Adjustable Nylon Strap


• Includes four 3700 (large) ProLatch utility boxes


• 3 zippered large pocket

Personal Assessment
Before spring arrived, I was looking for an alternate way to store my fishing tackle.   I had a large plastic tackle box which I lugged around every time I want fishing.  This box was not only heavy but took up way too much room in our boat.  I saw these SoftSider Systems offered by Plano and knew I had to give them a try.  I enjoyed the convenience and portability of these tackle systems the first time I used them.  I have the 3375 SoftSider System and the Guide Series Medium Bag 3336 Tackle system.  I also purchased many of the stowaway plastic boxes which hold everything from spinnerbaits and rubber worms to my crankbaits.  Now instead of lugging all of my tackle with me, I just swap the StowAway boxes in my bag to suit the kind of fishing I’m going to be doing that day.  The straps make the Tackle Systems a breeze to carry and the pockets are perfect for extra tackle such as bobbers, pliers, fishing line, maps or anything you might want to bring along.  To say this product is portable and convenient is an understatement.

Product Limitations
I keep this section in my reviews to give the reader ideas as to what application the product wouldn’t excel at.  I can’t honestly figure any application short of wading on a stream where this product wouldn’t be useful.  The strength of the Softsider is the fact that it is universal.  You can make the bag fit your needs regardless of what type of fishing you are doing.

Recommendation
I would strongly recommend the SoftSider System to anyone who needs a good way to store their fishing tackle.  The product line includes bags and stowaway boxes of all sizes and will suit the needs of any fisherman.  I especially like the ability to throw the strap over my shoulder and carry my tackle hands free.  The StowAway boxes are adjustable and will hold tackle of most any shape and size.  If you are looking for a new and possibly better way to store your fishing tackle, check out the Plano SoftSider Line.

Ice Fishing and the Outdoor Show

The winter months outdoors have been slow for me.  I am now ready for spring and the turkey hunting and fishing that comes with it.  The highlight this last month has been an ice fishing outing on Lake Wilhelm for crappie and bluegill.  I don’t consider myself a hardcore ice fisherman, however, I do enjoy getting out in the dead of winter and possibly catching a few fish.  Though I typically ice fish alone, the area I usually go has no shortage of anglers searching for the winter panfish.  The atmosphere is typically social and friendly.

All the equipment, packed up and ready to go.

My shelter and all the equipment

This entry actually began the day before my trip to the lake.  My first trip of the year on the ice usually involves trying to gather all my equipment scattered from one end of the garage to the other… heater, ice fishing rods, tackle, auger, lantern, ice scoop, fold up chairs, and finally the ice fishing shelter.  After re-spooling my rods, spending a couple hours gathering my equipment, and making sure everything is in working order, I was finally ready to hit the hard water.

The next afternoon I arrived at the lake ready to lay full assault on the panfish.  My spot would be a trench along an island, in the stumps on Lake Wilhelm.  After drilling a couple trial holes to find the right depth (9 – 10 foot), I was settled in, optimistic for an evening of action.  Within the first hour, a couple of gentlemen came to my shanty to chat.  They had been at the lake all day and their report of so far had been that the action was slow.  This didn’t bother me as my best luck on this lake, usually came within the last two hours of the day.  We talked for about ½ hr about hunting and past ice fishing trips.  During that time, I did not have a bite.  As “prime time” rolled around, I had only caught 1 tiny perch.  As day light was fading the bite started, but unfortunately the fish were small and the bites were few.  As the last light faded, I decided to throw the white flag up and call it a day.  The final tally was 5 small bluegill and 2 baby perch.  It was time to break down and make the long trek back to my truck.

As I arrived back at the parking area, I had the chance to talk with three other fishermen out that night.  It turns out they didn’t do very well either, so I checked the trip up as a slow days fishing.  I would love all of my entry’s to contain big fish, bucks and turkeys, but this is not reality in my outdoors.  Any trip outdoors is a rewarding experience and worth sharing.

The interior of my ice shelter

The first time out on the ice is a special day every year.  The experience is different than any other outdoor venture I take part in.  It is a time to slow down, relax, and enjoy the outdoors… anything else (fish) is an added bonus.  Though I didn’t catch many fish, I got the opportunity to get out and enjoy the outdoors when many people are cooped up inside.  Because of this, there is no such thing as a bad day on the ice.

An entry in the 2008 PSP Ice Fishing Contest

The 2nd part of my journal entry involves the opportunity to participate in the Eastern Outdoor Show.  One of the highlights of the show was meeting the people who make this site possible.  I had the opportunity to meet Andy and though I didn’t get a chance to talk to him at length, I can tell you he is very passionate about this site and the outdoors.  I’ve grown up with Jason and enjoy every chance I get to spend time with him.  I had a great time putting faces with many of the names on this site and would like to welcome the new members.  I also had the chance to meet John Bulgrin of Wisconsin Outdoor Adventures (check out the outfitter directory in the forums on this site).  He is a good guy, and it was nice to put a face with the name I’ve heard so much about. If you get a chance, look through the archives on this site and check out the PSP coverage on the Outdoor Show.  As always, good luck in your outdoor ventures and most important, be safe.

The CLAM 5600 Ice Fishing Shelter

Product Review by Mike Bell , PSP Field Staff

Cost
379.95 Online.  This item may be better bought at a local sporting goods store as the weight greatly increases shipping costs

Product features
2 extra wide doors with two way zippers
4 clear vinyl windows with covers
2 mesh side vent windows
2 large storage pockets
4 holes in floor with covers (cutouts for 2 double holes and 2 single holes)
4 2”X6” corner safety reflectors

Specs include
5’X6’ floor size
6’6” center height
Pack size 60”X 32”X9”
76 lbs
Designed to fit 2-3 people

Personal Assessment of product
I started ice fishing when I was in high school (1992).  My equipment included a pair of hunting coveralls, half of a 2 piece fishing pole, a hand auger, a collection of small jigs and molded ants, and a ladle from our kitchen.  After the first couple of trips on the ice, I decided if I wanted to enjoy doing this, I needed an ice fishing shelter, and a way to keep warm and out of the wind.  My first shanty came the following winter, and I was amazed at the setup and how warm I was when inside out of the wind.  This was a two man shelter; but was quite small for me and whoever I was going fishing with at the time.  Though it was a definite upgrade, and came in useful for several years, I decided my knees couldn’t take anymore sitting crouched up on a bucket for hours on end.  I am 6’3” and have the “bigger is better” mentality when it comes to comfort.  After looking at many ice fishing shelters, I decided I would purchase the Clam 5600.  This shelter is amazing to fish out of.  I use two fold up camp style chairs and have plenty of leg and arm room when fishing with a buddy.  The set up is fast and easy using a tubular frame (I can set up mine in less than 2 minutes).  The positives of this shanty are the room, the quality construction, collapsible for easy storage, the easy setup, and the double insulated floor which I believe keeps the inside warmer and more wind tight.  When going out, I usually stuff all my equipment including a hand auger, collapsible lantern, small tackle carrier, folding chairs, ice scoop, and rods into the shanty.  All this leaves me to carry is a heater if I even take it out.  I love the fact that I don’t have to carry anything when heading to and from the area I’m going to fish.

Product Limitations
All ice fishing shelters have pros and cons.  What is perfect for one might not be a viable option for another.  There are two major types of fishing shanties on the market:  The cabin style (Clam 5600) or the flip up style (fish trap Yukon).   The flip up shanties can be fished several different ways.  They can be fished open with seat out, ½ up (for a wind block and ease running to tip ups), or completely closed where as the cabin style 5600 can only be fished 1 way.   The largest limitation I’ve experienced with the Clam 5600 is the sled doesn’t pull particularly well.  To get into my favorite fishing spot on the ice, I have to walk down a fairly steep 100 yard gas line to reach the lake then another 200-300 yards across the ice.  Coming into that spot isn’t bad, but when heading back that sled gives me all I want to pull going up the hill.  Also, when fishing by myself, the Clam with all my equipment packed into it, can be a challenge to lift into the bed of my pickup truck.  Though I have never experienced it, the height of the 5600 can catch a strong wind and possibly blow over or be tossed around when fishing alone.  The final limitation I can think of is the cost.  Though the price tag on this product is a little on the high end, but you get what you pay for in quality and engineering.

Recommendation
My ice fishing trips usually include fishing one or two sets an outing for panfish.  For the fisherman who wants comfort, and room along with a quality long lasting build, I would definitely recommend the Clam 5600.  If you are a fisherman who fishes multiple sets, as well as tipups, there is probably a lighter more convenient design out there for you.  In my opinion, this shanty is a little much for 1 person even though I do use it when fishing alone.  My Clam 5600 has served me well for several years and will do so for many more.  If you are looking for a quality Ice fishing shanty, take a hard look at the Clam/Fish Trap shelters.  Check out both the flip up style as well as the cabin style and see which model suits your personal needs the best.

Family, Friends and PA Outdoors

Hello fellow outdoorsmen.  My name is Michael Bell and I am from northwest Pennsylvania.  I’m looking forward to sharing and putting in writing my experiences in the outdoors this coming year.  My two passions in life are Family and the outdoor sports.  I am a husband and father of one 3 year old boy.

My two favorite outdoor activities are archery hunting and fishing the streams of PA.  That being said, I like anything dealing with the woods and or the water.  Unfortunately in the past, I haven’t kept a journal, but I will share some of my favorite photos from the recent past.  Again these are in no particular order but are some pictures of my favorite hunts and fishing trips.

Currently, I have been practicing with my bow almost daily and doing a little scouting for the upcoming archery season.  Pictured below is the weapon I will be using this season.  It will be the same as the previous two seasons:  a Matthews Switchback (05), Trophy Taker Shaky Hunter rest, G5 sight, Gold Tip Arrows, and a Scott Mongoose release.  The only thing I am going to change this year is that I will be trying the Slick Trick Magnum 4 blade broadheads.

Also I am tying flies to replace the ones I had lost on the tribs last year.  This is where I realize just how many thumbs I have.  Though I am not very fast or good at tying, I do enjoy it and the fish don’t seem to mind the lack of professionalism incorporated in these flies.  It is a great way to spend a few hours and will save you a few bucks in the long run.  Here is a pic of my current selection of steelhead flies, most of the egg patterns are my ties.

To finish up I would like to say I am excited to be able to contribute by writing journal entries on this great web sight.  Thanks to the owners for this opportunity and good luck to everyone on your outdoor ventures.  Until next time, good luck and be safe.
Mike Bell