Southern Traditions Outdoors | May-June 2014

Complimentary Copy May - June 2014
REELFOOT BLUEGILL
QUAIL RESTORATION
COOKING WILD GAME
GIANT PICKWICK CATS
GET READY FOR DEER SEASON
www.southerntraditionsoutdoors.com
Please tell our advertisers you saw their ad in southern traditions outdoors magazine!

Herman Jenkins
motors
of Union City, tennessee
WE ARE
PROFESSIONAL
GRADE!
HERmAN JENkINS mOtORS
2030 W. REELFOOt AvE - UNION CIty, tN
WWW.JENkINSmOtORSUNIONCIty.COm
731.885.2811
2014 GMC DENALI 4-WHEEL DRIVE CREWCAB
2 SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | MAY - JUNE 2014 MAY - JUNE 2014 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS 3

MAY - JUNE 2014 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS 54 SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | MAY - JUNE 2014
BONUS EDITION
8 EXTRA PAGES
Advertising Information:
Southern Traditions Outdoors | Rob Somerville
(731) 446-8052 stomag1@gmail.com
DISCLAIMER - Neither the authors nor Southern Traditions Outdoors
Magazine LLC assume any responsibility or liability for any actions
by readers who utilize any information contained within. Readers
are advised that the use of any and all information contained within
Southern Traditions Outdoors is at their own risk.
On the Cover
This awesome photo shows a gobbler attacking a hunter’s decoy set up, during the month of May.
Photo courtesy of the NWTF
Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine Mission Statement:
Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine vows to put forth a publication to
promote the outdoors lifestyle in a positive manner. We will strive to encourage
veteran and novice outdoorsmen, women, kids, and the physically challenged
to participate in the outdoors in a safe and ethical manner. Our publication will
bring positive attention to the wondrous beauty of the world of Nature in the
mid-south.
Garry Mason
Walter Wilkerson
Terry Wilkerson
Steve McCadams
Kelley Powers
Shawn Todd
Eddie Brunswick
Larry Self
John Sloan
Richard Simms
John Meacham
Buck Gardner
Scott Marcin
Ed Lankford
Drew Brooks
John Latham
John Roberts
Field Staff Editors
Owners - Eddie Anderson
Rob Somerville
Kevin Griffith
Stacey Lemons
Publisher - Eddie Anderson
Editor - Rob Somerville
Magazine Design - Kalli Lipke
Advertising Sales
Rob Somerville - Managing
Partner
Distribution
Johnathan Anderson
Mike Robinson
Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine, LLC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PG................... ARTICLE........................................................... AUTHOR
6...........................Reelfoot Lake Bluegill.........................................................Steve McCadams
12..........................Tennesee Quail Restoration...............................................Paul E. Moore
18..........................American Farmer................................................................Rob Somerville
22..........................Fyrne Lake - The Saga Continues......................................Kevin Griffith
28..........................Kids and Coons..................................................................Shawn Todd
34..........................Business Spotlight..............................................................STO
38..........................TWRA News.......................................................................TWRA
41..........................Giant Catfish of Pickwick Lake...........................................Rob Somerville
42..........................Cooking on the Wild Side...................................................Rob Somerville
48..........................Summer Slabs at Kentucky Lake.......................................Steve McCadams
50..........................Kid’s Korner........................................................................STO
52..........................Trophy Room......................................................................STO
Now is the time to get ready for deer season!
Spring is in the air and before too long we will be experiencing the
“dog days” of summer. Then, before we know it, deer season is right around
the corner. Many hunters get cabin fever right about now, because unless
they chase coyote, there are no open hunting seasons in our area. What is a
camo-clad warrior to do?
How about taking this time to get ready for deer season?
There are many things you can do right now that will make the upcom-
ing deer season be more successful for you than ever before. Here are just
a few:
Be prepared:
• Make sure that your deer stands are in good shape. If you use
climbers, check that all of the safety features are not damaged and
that moving parts are oiled to avoid squeaking.
• If you hunt from ladder-type or homemade stands, make sure
that your stand endured the harsh elements of winter. Repair or
replace them if they did not. Trim your shooting lanes now, to get
deer used to any changes in their home range long before season.
Relocate old stands or put up any new ones for the same reason.
Remove any limbs or fallen trees from the access trails to your
deer stands.
• Practice, practice, practice!
I cannot emphasize enough the time hunters should spend in the
field with their weapons of choice, making sure they can make an
accurate and clean harvest of their prey. You never want to have
that trophy buck lined up, only to make an errant shot, due to lack
of practice.
Bring the deer to you and monitor their activity:
• Go on the internet and search for “PVC deer gravity feeders.”
These moveable “whitetail buffets” can be inexpensive to build
and are easy to relocate, as well. They are made out of 6” PVC
pipe. You bungee cord them to a tree, resting them on a tree root.
They can be filled with feed corn, capped to keep out rain and
painted camo to blend in. Gravity does the rest, as when deer eat
the corn piled at the bottom, the corn level slowly feeds down. Most feeders will hold twenty five pounds of corn, so
they are good to go for at least a week before refilling.
• Use Trail cameras. These digital cameras will scout your deer property for you, while leaving little to no human
scent. You simply strap the camera to a tree, turn it on, return a week later and pull the card. Then you plug the card
into a computer and enjoy the images that will tell you the size, quality and quantity of deer in your herd … all from
the comforts of home. The cameras are motion activated and come with a flash, so you’ll even catch those monster
bucks that are mostly nocturnal.
I hope all of you “horn hunters” enjoyed these tips. Have a great summer and always remember that our kids are our
most precious natural resource. They are our future!
See ya,
-Rob Somerville
From the Desk of the Editor
PVC deer gravity feeders are moveable
“whitetail buffets” that can be inexpensive
to build and are easy to relocate as desired.
- STO File Photo

orcupine quill floats, disap-
pearing beneath Reelfoot Lake’s
bald cypress tree’s overhang-
ing limbs, made time stand still.
Shady sides of the big rooted
canopies were hideouts for the
bronze bombers that cut di-does in
the placid water, slicing the moss
and lilies with my braided line and
clear monofilament leader.
In my youth there were many
encounters with bedding bluegill;
with sculling paddles, cane poles
and the unique sound and ride of
a Calhoun family-built Reelfoot
Lake boat. The put-put rides and
stump jumping from submerged
obstacles was as much a part of
the fishing trip as the fish them-
selves.
Briggs and Stratton engines
pushing the wooden vessels had
a distinct sound. Sometimes I fall
back in time and dream of outings
where the lawnmower-sounding
lake boat rental took me, old met-
al ice boxes with bottle openers on
the side, block ice, and a lard stand
full of roaches to my favorite fish-
ing hole.
From the likes of Harry Miller’s
and Hamilton’s docks is where
the fishing expedition usually be-
gan. Every spot at Reelfoot lookedDisappearing bobbers from hungry bluegill are a great way to intro-
duce kids to the sport of fishing. - Photo by Steve McCadams
REELFOOT LAKE
BLUEGILLbringing back memories of my youth
By Steve McCadams
P
FISHING PACKAGES
All package prices are per person plus tax - MINIMUM of 2 PEOPLE
Non-prime season-packages: - 2 Days / 2 Nights -- $139.00 - 3 Days / 3 Nights -- $179.00
Prime Season (March 14 - May 24):
3 day / 3 night Fishing package price (check-in on Thursday): $239.00
4 day / 4 night Fishing package price (check-in on Sunday): $239.00
7 day / 7 night Fishing package price: $478.00
Guides are available (minimum 2 people per guide)
Packages include lodging, continental breakfast, boat,
motor, bait, gas, and ice.
$75.00 deposit per person required
(DEPOSIT IS NON-REFUNDABLE)
FIVE STAR RATING FROM STO MAGAZINE!
Hwy. 22 & 1685 Lake Drive
Just Outside
Samburg, TN city limits.
(731) 538-9800
info@acornpointlodge.com
www.acornpointlodge.com
continued on page 8
Fyrne Lake - 2500 Acre Private Natural Park
Lake Pavilion Lake Aerial
Fishing Memberships
Weddings - Special Events
Corporate Meetings - Retreats
www.fyrnelake.com

memorable, as all sorts of wildlife
creatures were observed here in
Tennessee’s answer to the Ever-
glades. Spooking big fish, hiding
around huge bonnets was always
a shock to both the fish and the
fishermen, as big splashes set the
stage for what lay ahead.
I was lucky to have a dad that
took me fishing and taught me the
do’s and don’ts. Boy, were those
outings special. While it has been
more than 50 years since my first
fishing trip to Reelfoot, I can still
recall the fun and excitement.
Having a big dragonfly light
on my quill seemed to bring good
luck, or so I thought. We called
‘em “snake doctors” and this
aquatic wonderland usually had
a few cottonmouths sunning on a
log or cypress knot. I remember
those too!
Dad told me not to mess around
with the snakes. He only had to
tell me once!
Nostalgia takes over when
warm days descend and word of
bluegill on the bed dominates the
fishing reports.
Each year, I target bedding blue-
gill and shellcracker here on my
home waters of Kentucky Lake,
where some dandies can be caught
in big numbers. I do it from the
comfort of a nice bass boat, but
I often fall back in time to those
little wooden back-breaking seats
and low-riding, stump jumping
boats at Reelfoot.
Times and tackle have changed,
but one thing never goes out of
style, and that’s catching bluegill.
They still look the same as those
fishy, but the
finicky fish had
a way of choos-
ing specific ar-
eas for reasons
known only to
them. I learned a
few of these hot
spots and knew
history repeated
itself every year
when the fish
went on the bed.
Spawning time
for bluegill was,
and still is, one
of fishing’s finest
hours.
My health
seems to im-
prove each year,
in the late spring
and early sum-
mer, when these
feisty panfish set
up housekeeping
and turn territo-
rial. There’s just
something about
bobbers fading
away before the
fight. Tugs of war
with hidden war-
riors protecting
their homestead
and battling like
bull elk in a jeal-
ous rage.
When these
olive drab power
rangers turn up
the heat each
spring you can be
young again in
the presence
of a hot bluegill
and shellcracker bed. Makes no
difference if you’re 8 years-old or
approaching 88; all anglers return
to their youth when the bluegill
are biting.
Catching bream, a southern
term coined to refer to bluegill, or
perhaps their hefty cousins known
biologically as redear sunfish but
labeled shellcracker by our south-
ern delegation, never goes out of
style.
Where else can an inexperi-
enced youngster and a veteran
angler compete on the same level
playing field? The power of the
panfish knows no boundaries.
Bream fishermen’s tackle and
techniques of yesteryear have
been replaced by modern technol-
ogy. It seems the old Indian Head
boat paddles used to silently scull
up to secret spots have lost out to
electric trolling motors. The art of
maneuvering the boat with paddle
in one hand and cane pole in the
other exists only in faded photo-
graphs, filed deep in distant mem-
ories.
Light-action graphite rods are
the norm, often armed with ultra-
light spinning reels, loud colored
slip bobbers and loaded for bear
with crickets, meal worms, red
wigglers or some such larva imi-
tation. The old black roach caught
with mesh wire traps at feed mills,
or at water meter holes in the yard
beneath metal covers and milk
barns, is a bait unknown to most
modern day fishermen.
Through the jungle of lily pads
and flooded cypress, up to an area
known as Tri-Bar, is where my
dad took me to search for hid-
den treasures. The ride alone was
Hefty catches of bulky bluegill and redear sunfish, better known as
shellcrackers, will tip your taste buds and provide fond memories
whether your 8 years old or 80 years old!
- Photo by Steve McCadams
AT BEAUTIFUL REELFOOT LAKE!
Camping, Boat Dock, Rental Unit, Licenses,
Bait, Tackle, Camping Supplies, Cold Drinks, Ice and
much more!
We Carry everything you need to make your stay here
a wonderful and unforgettable visit!
2275 St. Route 21 E. - Tiptonville, TN 38079
(731)253-7809Big bluegills like this one sure bring smiles to small faces.
- Photo by Rob Somerville
The ride alone was memorable, as all sorts of wildlife creatures were observed here in Tennessee’s answer to the Everglades ... Reelfoot Lake.
- STO File Photo
continued on next page
While you’re huting or fishing on Reelfoot
Lake, stop by and see Johanna and her crew
for a quick, delicious meal.
Or, beat the heat with our
“World Famous” ice cream.
Dine-in or eat outside on our Patio!!
Home Owned and operated
731-253-6311
HWY 78 - Tiptonville
Less than 5 min from Reelfoot Lake
“Something Different”
OPEN
EVERY
DAY!

QUALITY INN
OF PARIS, TENNESSEE
AT KENTUCKY LAKE
Preferred Lodging for Sportsmen!
1510 East Wood Street - Paris, TN 38242, (731) 642-2838
http://www.qualityinn.com/hotel-paris-tennessee-TN677
Reserve rooms on our website for special discount!
Leigh Anne Walker 731-589-4555
It’s well worth the work to help your Family .....
because Family Matters most to those of us at
TENNESSEE REALTY
Call, click or visit us at our NEW LOCATION at 575 Mall Blvd.
In The Village Shopping Center (Behind Walmart)
731-285-4555
www.dyersburgtn.com
WELL TRUSTED!
WELL ESTABLISHED!
WELL THOUGHT OF!
WELL CONNECTED!
days of the past, as the males take
on a handsome dark color, cour-
tesy of hormonal changes during
spawning phases. The females
sport a light yellow color, which
clearly distinguishes them from
the bull males.
You can capitalize on their hab-
its today just like folks did eons
ago. The fish still head to shal-
low water and fan out craters in
the substrate, where a little gravel
and mud mix together. Sometimes
it’s just a mud bottom, but the big
males congregate and pretty much
run off the little fish once spawn-
ing gets underway.
That’s why finding a good bed-
ding area likely offers some hefty
size fish. Most veteran anglers
toss the females back and choose
to box only the males.
It doesn’t take a huge tackle box
to get things going. Arm yourself
with some long shank size #6 bait
keeper style hooks in the bronze,
light-wire variety. A few split-
shots in the #4 size range will help
get you going, whether you use a
casting style slip bobber, a fixed
mounted Carlyle style or round
spring loaded plastic type.
You’ll want to keep some long-
nose pliers handy for both rigging
and hook removal when the hun-
gry fish swallow the whole mor-
sel. Putting your fish on ice works
best, as it preserves the flavor of
the meat and makes filleting much
easier too.
Now is the time to head out
to these waterways. Bluegill are
spawning in the shallow farm
ponds of Tennessee and also on
the big waters of both Reelfoot
and Kentucky Lakes.
Take some youngsters too and
help make memories together.
Odds are that the fish will do their
part if you show up and do yours.
Don’t be surprise if one of these
days you find yourself growing old
and yearning for youthful fishing
trips. The fountain of youth never
lived up to its claim, but you can
be young again if only for a day,
when you drop anchor, battle the
bluegill and let the world go by!
Editor’s Note: Steve McCadams
is a professional guide and out-
door writer from Paris, Tennes-
see. You can reach him at
stevemc@charter.net.
REELFOOT LAKE BLUEGILL
Racks -n- Reels Hunting Expo in Paris, TN will provide a vast array of
hunting and fishing vendors that bring unique products which will benefit
outdoor enthusiasts. The venue is conveniently located only minutes from
LBL and Paris Landing, at the Quality Inn
Convention Center in Paris, Tennessee!
The three day event will be held Aug. 22nd thru 24th and it will also
feature a Big Buck Contest, Expert Seminar Speakers, a Fishing Pond and
Concessions.
Entry is only $10 ages 16 & up, $5 ages 7-15 and FREE ages 6 & under.
A weekend pass can be purchased for only $20.
RACKS-n-REELS
HUNTING-n-FISHING
EXPO
FINALLY ... A MAJOR OUTDOOR EXPO
AT KENTUCKY LAKE!
For more information conatct Dan Cooper – Show Promoter
731-707-3916 dan@cooperhunting
www.racks-n-reels.com

here is still a dedicated
contingent of quail hunters
in Tennessee, but without ques-
tion, the numbers of hunters and
bobwhites has declined dramati-
cally over the past few decades.
The trend is not just in Tennessee.
Throughout most all of the tradi-
tional core range of the bobwhite
quail, bird numbers have been on
the decline for quite some time.
Fortunately, there is now a coop-
erative effort being made across
this core range to help curb this
downward spiral.
There are lots of contributing
factors to the decline in quail
numbers such as certain farm-
ing practices, land use methods,
and predation. However, biolo-
gists and quail researchers are
unified in the belief that the most
significant reason for the decline
is loss of suitable habitat. It has
been proven in recent years that if
abundant quality habitat is created
in areas where quail exist, there is
a rapid positive response in bird
numbers. Unfortunately, creating
that habitat is the greatest chal-
lenge faced by the quail restora-
tion movement.
Roger Applegate, Wildlife Pop-
ulation Biologist for the Tennes-
see Wildlife Resources Agency
(TWRA), is dedicated to doing
By Paul E. Moore
T
whatever is possible to improve
quail habitat and numbers, but ad-
mittedly, it is a frustrating uphill
battle. Changing decades of habi-
tat loss and bad land management
practices is no easy task. It is an
even harder task to convince peo-
ple set in their ways that there is a
better way of doing things.
Regarding the population de-
cline Applegate said, “The major
reasons have been regrowth and
maturation of forest with the co-
inciding loss of early successional
(old field) habitat, intensification
of farming practices including
cleaner fields, and extensive use
of pesticides. There is some in-
dication that the steady increase
in production of soybeans in the
state has some relationship with
the decline, but it is hard to put a
finger on. But, most importantly,
is the continued fragmentation of
suitable quail habitat into smaller
and smaller acreages so that good
habitat is no longer continuous
across the Tennessee landscape.
Where good quail habitat occurs;
it is in isolation of other patches of
good habitat so that quail cannot
repopulate when numbers decline
on a particular area. A quail popu-
lation must be relatively continu-
ous across a landscape in order to
thrive. They really require large
blocks of habitat rather than small
fragments.”
The loss of these continuous
blocks of quality quail habitat has
had huge impacts on quail num-
bers and hunter success in har-
vesting these birds across much
of the country and is easily seen
here in the Volunteer State. Apple-
gate added, “Back in the day, you
could hunt from sunrise to sunset
without ever leaving quail habi-
tat, as long as you had access to
the land. You did not need dogs
to be a successful quail hunter,
because they were so abundant.
These birds were truly native wild
quail.”
One of the best things to hap-
pen to quail restoration across the
country is the formation of the
National Bobwhite Conservation
Initiative (NBCI). The NBCI is a
collective effort, bringing togeth-
er wildlife agencies from 25 states
across the core range of the bob-
white and partnering with other
organizations to create a unified
effort at restoring habitat and na-
tive grasslands. Bobwhite quail
are the main focus of this effort,
but there are many other benefits
to restoring or creating quality
grasslands and habitat. Various
bird species, rabbits and other
ground dwelling critters all ben-
efit from habitat restoration.
Another vitally import aspect
to restoring quality grasslands is
increasing the number of pollina-
tors.
Applegate said, “Tennessee
Wildlife Resources Agency was
one of the founding members of
the NBCI and played key roles
in development of this plan, in-
cluding funding support. It has
also led the charge for incorpo-
rating various necessary changes
in the NBCI that address Tennes-
see’s specific needs. Because the
NBCI covers such a huge part of
the U. S., it is difficult for all pos-
sible conditions to be addressed
without a great deal of continual
change to the plan. For example,
the NBCI started out addressing
only agricultural land, but with
the realization that agricultural
land is not the best possible place
to secure good quail populations;
the NBCI has incorporated man-
agement of quail in non-agricul-
tural landscapes into its model.
There is still room for the NBCI
to grow and to change as we learn
Tennessee Quail
Restoration
The effort to increase quail numbers requires a unified strategy, hard work and funding. - Photo courtesy of John Brunjes.
WILKERSON’S
TAXIDERMY
PHONE (731)286-0853 • 1529 MORGAN RD., DYERSBURG
WILKERSON’S
TAXIDERMY
EVERY MOUNT IS A
TROPHY
Trust a State, National & World Award
Winning Taxidermists!
Don’t trust
just anyone.
WALTER & TERRY WILKERSON
“Quality Work at a
Reasonable Price”
Member T.T.A. & N.T.A.

3895 HWY 51 S. - DYERSBURG, TN 731-285-0310
CLAYTONHOMESOFDYERSBURG.COM
NEW & USED HOMES!
HUNDREDS OF FLOOR PLANS!
JUST LIKE PHIL & KAY’S!
DUCK DYNASTY UNITS!
more about what works or does
not work, but it will take time and
sweat equity.”
The TWRA has also partnered
with other groups to work on
quail restoration over the years,
but most notably, Applegate said
was the former Quail Unlimited
and the present Quail Forever. He
added, “There have also been ac-
tivities sponsored by the National
Wild Turkey Federation and many
other similar organizations. Pub-
lic entities such as the U. S. Forest
Service, Tennessee Valley Author-
ity, Army Corps of Engineers, U.
S. Army and Air Force, Tennessee
Division of Forestry, and Tennes-
see Department of Environment
and Conservation, among others
have been very important. Com-
mercial timber companies and
mining companies have played
roles at various times.”
As mentioned, getting away
from decades-old practices that do
not make significant differences is
tough. Practices such as breaking
up good habitat by planting shrub
hedges and the planting of food
plots instead of managing the old
field early successional habitat
that quail need are no longer pro-
moted. Instead, the NBCI encour-
ages what is known as focus ar-
eas. In Tennessee, Applegate and
the TWRA are working within a
strategy known as focus and an-
chor.
The biologist explained, “The
way this works is that you select
anchor areas that may still have
quail and that are large enough, so
that those quail populations can
be built up by careful maintenance
of habitat and restrictive hunting.
Then as quail
populations
build up, you
make use of
various USDA
Farm Bill pro-
grams, to try
to incorporate
quail habitat
on surround-
ing lands, so
that the build-
ing quail pop-
ulation can
expand into
this area. An-
chor areas in
this model are
mostly going
to be publicly
owned lands
such as TWRA
wildlife man-
agement areas.
The reasoning
for this is that
TWRA and
some other
public land
holders can
make a perma-
nent commit-
ment to man-
aging quail on
these lands.
The surround-
ing area, which
we call a fo-
cus area, can
be any type
of ownership
where fund-
ing can be se-
cured to assist
with manage-
Lankford Taxidermy
3070 Thompson School Rd.
Huntingdon, Tennessee - 38344
Phone {731} 986-3351
Specializing in
Fish Mountings and Birds
- 50 Years Experience -
20% off and bass over 6 lbs.
caught from Gibson County Lake
or Carroll Lakes!
There is still a dedicated contingent of quail hunters in Tennessee, but without question, the numbers of hunters and bobwhites have
declined dramatically over the past few decades. - Photo courtesy of John Brunjes
Quality habitat such as this savanna at the Catoosa Wildlife Manage-
ment Area is vital to quail, rabbits, birds, pollinators and many more
wildlife species. - Photo by Paul Moore

ment. What is most important in
this model is that the anchor will
always hold populations of wild
quail, whereas economic pres-
sures may dictate whether or not
quail habitat will be maintained
on the focus area.”
Applegate said, “There are no
silver bullets or quick fixes that
will bring back quail to Tennes-
see in large numbers. We need the
ability to restore old field habitat
in sufficiently large blocks, to sus-
tain long term populations, where
sources of quail already occur. We
need conservative hunting sea-
sons; the emphasis is on the root
of the word ‘conservation.’ We
need to be careful with releases
of domestic quail into areas where
we wish to restore wild quail pop-
ulations in order to assure they
can survive. We do not need to
micromanage quail with planting
of food plots, and other expensive
techniques. We need the ability
to carefully measure hunting and
quail populations. We need a pro-
gram of quail research that will al-
low us to answer important ques-
tions in restoring quail. Finally, we
need as many partners as we can
get that understand the biological
realities of what it takes and that
will work with us to achieve that
goal. None of these is easy or fast
to attain.”
Certainly the challenges are
many, but progress and success
are not out of reach. It will take
understanding, agreement and a
willingness to embrace change.
Most importantly, it will take
funding and a lot of hard work,
or what Applegate referred to as
sweat equity. The task is not one
to be left just to
the TWRA, but
each of us must
get involved
and play a part.
Editor’s Note:
To learn more
about quail res-
toration, visit
the NBCI web-
site at www.
bringbackbob-
whites.org.
There are many contributing factors to the decline in quail numbers such as certain farm-
ing practices, land use methods and predation. - Photo courtesy of Obie Williams.
COLEMAN’S
DISCOUNT
HOME FURNISHINGS
AREA’S ONLY DISTRIBUTOR
OF DUCK COMMANDER
FURNITURE!
3594 HWY 51 S.
DYERSBURG, TN
731-285-6682
524 E Reelfoot Ave - Union City, TN - 38261
(731) 885-8150 www.terrypetty.com
CHEVROLET
TERRY PETTY CHEVROLET
2013
SILVERADO
3500 HD LTZ
4X4
GUN WORKS, INC.
Hwy. 51 South • 1412 W. Reelfoot Avenue • Union City, TN 38261
(Across from Wal-Mart)
Visit Us
www.dixiegunworks.com
731-885-0700
Information
800-238-6785
Orders
Visit our Showroom and the Old Car Museum • Open 8-5 Mon.-Fri. & 8-12 Sat.
Order the Dixie Gun Works Parts & Supplies catalog - Only $ 5.00
WORLD’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTOR
OF ANTIQUE & REPLICA BLACKPOWDER FIREARMS & ACCESSORIES
Complete Line of Civil War Firearms, Supplies & Accoutrements
Indian War Firearms & Leather Goods
Cowboy Action Firearms, Clothing, Holsters & Belts
A Complete Line of Living History Necessities & Accessories
Over 1,000 Original Antique Firearms for Sale
Plus a Huge Selection of Books

What Do America’s Farmers Grow?
By Rob Somerville
Do you know what America’s farmers grow? You
may think you know the answer but they do so much
more than grow crops and raise animals.
For example, did you know America’s farmers grow
23 million American jobs? That’s right; the Ameri-
can agriculture industry supports 23 million U.S.
jobs, making them the largest employer in the nation.
America’s farmers also grow the economy with a
trade surplus of 34 billion dollars – that’s more than
any other U.S. industry.
Not only do they grow the crops that feed, clothe,
and fuel us but they do it all on less land. Since the
introduction of pesticides, farmers have been able to
produce bigger crops on less land, increasing crop
productivity anywhere between 20 and 50 percent. In
2005, herbicides increased the value of U.S. agri-
cultural productivity by $26 billion. In fact, just to
equal the amount of food grown today, farmers from
50 years ago would need their fields to cover every
square inch of the U.S.
Some Food for Thought
Did you know America’s farmers support 24 mil-
lion jobs? Or that U.S. farmers supply 41.56% of the
world’s corn? How about that one acre of soybeans
can create 82,368 crayons?
America’s farmers produce many products for not
only the U.S., but also the world.
Yep, America’s Farmers grow a lot more than just
crops.
America’s farmers grow America!
BRADLEY SEED
COMPANY
THE MID-SOUTH’S DISTRIBUTOR FOR BECK’S HYBRID SEEDS
Beck’s Hybrids is the largest family-owned, retail seed company in the United
States, serving farmers in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, southern Michigan, western
Kentucky and Tennessee. Beck’s understands what farmers need, because we’re
farmers, too.
As the largest family-owned seed company, Beck’s has access to the best genetics
and trait technologies from suppliers worldwide. In fact, Beck’s strives to provide
all customers with the tools they need to succeed on their farm.
Our Mission
To provide our customers with the best in seed quality, field performance, and service.
Our Commitment
To honor God, by maintaining our relationships with integrity and honesty in all we do.
Experience the Difference.
Plant Beck's.™
1415 LEXIE COBB RD - DYERSBURG, TN - 38059
JEFF BRADLEY: 731-259-2715 OR RYAN BRADLEY: 731-377-4885
www.beckshybrids.com

20 SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | MAY - JUNE 2014
Complete Line of New & Used Farm Equipment!
Byron Medlin
Office: 573-333-0663
Email: bmedlin@donmedlinco.com
www.donmedlinco.com
1197 State Hwy D
Caruthersville, MO - 63830
We also offer Soil Sampling (Grid/Spot)
and of course ... all your seed, fertilizer and Ag chemicals needs!
CONSOLIDATED AGRI PRODUCTS
35 Harrington Rd - Ridgely, TN 38080
(731) 264-5440
RIO Shotgun Shells
Val6 Heaters
G&H Decoys
Dakota Decoys
Louisana Grills
YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR THE FARM, HOME
& THE GREAT OUTDOORS!
GIBSON
FARMERS
CO-OP
CHECK OUT OUR CO-OP OUTDOORS
SPORTSMAN’S CATALOGUE ON-LINE AT
www.ourcoop.com
BIG BOY JUNCTION
731-285-0202
DYERSBURG
731-285-7161
NEWBERN
731-627-2525
TRENTON
731-855-1891
MILAN
731-787-6618
DYER
731-665-6161
CHECK OUT THE HUGE &
UNIQUE GIFT SHOP IN OUR
TRENTON LOCATION!
VISIT US FOR ALL YOUR
FOOD PLOT SEEDS & NEEDS!
MID-SOUTH FARMER’S
“Focused on Your Success”
Brownsville, TN
1295 Boyd Ave.
731-772-9432
Jackson, TN
77 Ragland Drive
731-668-3070
Somerville, TN
17520 US Hwy 64
901-465-3655
Ashland, MS
16840 Boundary Dr
662-224-8933
Bolivar, TN
14840 Hwy 18 S.
731-658-3931
Alamo, TN
359 W. Main
731-696-5527
Selmer, TN
335 Tennessee Ave
731-645-5156
Tupelo, MS
1279 Rd 681
662-205-4024
www.ourcoop.com
For All Your Crop Needs!
OUR EXPERIENCED STAFF IS HERE TO FILL YOUR EVERY
NEED & WE HAVE THE ROOM TO DO JUST THAT!
DYERSBURG ELEVATOR COMPANY
300 PRESSLER RD - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-287-7272
MAY - JUNE 2014 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS 21

In 2004 we “bought” the farm
(Fyrne Lake Farms, just outside of
Dyersburg) and two years later we
completed our home. My wife,
Diana, was happy and I was ec-
static! Now there was a place Di-
ana, Andrew (our 2 year-old at the
time) and I could stay at when we
came up from our home in Flor-
ida. There was even extra room
for guests! What else could we
have possibly needed in paradise?
Well…themoretimeIspentonthe
farm the more projects and con-
cerns were being added to my to-
do list. Erosion here, kudzu there,
a lake and its fish in need of man-
agement, a tree down across the
driveway, fields to mow, trails in
need of clearing, trespassers tear-
ing down fences… the list didn’t
stop (and it still doesn’t). At first
it was overwhelming! However,
the accumulating challenges with
our new property started to excite
me. We were creating something
special here at Fyrne Lake and the
process of its creation and its care
touched the same place deep with-
in me that became excited about
building and running my own
business 30 years before.
At that point in my life, I was
still managing the day to day
operations of Depco Pump, my
company in Florida. With the
challenges accumulating in Ten-
nessee, I was getting excited about
changing careers. I could never
leave my baby (Depco) 100%, but
I just knew there must be a way to
have my cake and eat it too. So,
I started plans to move forward
my training of a general manager
to take over the day to day opera-
tions of Depco. That would allow
me more time in Tennessee to cre-
ate our dream at Fyrne Lake.
By now our dream was growing
(Diana would say it was Kevin’s
dream, not hers). I wanted Fyrne
Lake to become a gathering place
of our family and friends for gen-
erations to come. To do that, it
would need to develop income
sources from the property to make
it self-sustaining. I also wanted it
to remain a pristine and natural
place, with minimum develop-
ment and controlled access. The
vision that kept coming to me was
of a national park. That was it! I
now had a picture of our vision!
My business training started to
kick in and I knew that if I was se-
rious about this dream, I needed to
create a vision and mission state-
ment for Fyrne Lake. Here they
are:
Vision Statement
Fyrne Lake is a pristine, self-
sustaining private park that we
share with family, friends and the
community.
Mission Statement
We will maintain the land and lake
to the standards of a national park.
We will develop income sources
that do not violate our vision and
will enable the property to remain
family owned for generations.
Over and over again I have
proved to myself the value of hav-
ing clear vision and mission state-
ments. They have been crucial
to my success. These statements
function together to guide every
decision and motivate each ac-
tion having both helped me build
Depco from a small operation,
consisting of myself and a couple
part-timers, to the successful na-
tional pump distributor it is today.
To me, one of the most surprising
effects of having a vision and mis-
sion statement is what they STOP
from happening. You see, in busi-
ness and in life we encounter op-
portunities every day. Many we
never visualize, some we recog-
nize and a few we might accept.
The challenge is to recognize
opportunities when they come
and wisely decide which ones to
pursue and which ones to ignore.
Knowing when to say “NO” is as
vital as when to say “YES.” You
need to verify whether an opportu-
nity moves you toward your goal
and is in alignment with (doesn’t
violate) your vision and mission.
Saying “YES” when you should
have said “NO” will squander
your time and resources while
possibly moving you further away
from your goal.
I’ve had plenty of opportunities
presented to me concerning Fyrne
Wildlife abounds on the farm. Here’s a picture of a coyote pup and young fawn. - Photos courtesy of Fyrne Lake
Fyrne Lake Farms
The Saga Continues
By Kevin Griffith
Fyrne Lake shares its property with the Boy Scouts. This picture shows a few of the scouts at their campsite on May 18th, 2013.
- Photo courtesy of Fyrne Lake
TATUM’S PLUMBING SERVICE
• NEW & OLD CONSTRUCTION
• COMMERCIAL
• RESIDENTIAL
• WATER HEATERS
• GAS LINES
• LEAKY FAUCETS
• INSURED
ALDIE TATUM 731-676-5686
Wholesale Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC Distributor
Residential - Industrial - Commercial
400 A Hwy 51 Bypass N - Dyersburg, TN - 38024
1-888-221-9046 or 731-285-9046
www.dyersburgwinnelson.com

Lake including developing it into
a subdivision, cutting the timber,
selling a few hundred acres on the
lake for a training/classroom facil-
ity or just selling it all at a hand-
some profit. If I didn’t have a clear
vision for Fyrne Lake, I may have
been tempted. But since I did, it
was easy to say no. All that being
said, there were many things I was
eager to say yes to and plan for.
Our vision talks about the prop-
erty being a pristine park. Those
words alone paint a picture in my
head of a peaceful lake, surround-
ed by thick forests and teeming
with wildlife. “Self-sustaining”
adds another dimension to the vi-
sion by requiring the goal of de-
veloping income sources that will
“sustain” the property for genera-
tions. However, these self-sus-
taining income sources shouldn’t
violate the “private” part of the vi-
sion by causing us to lose person-
al control over its access or over
commercializing or developing
the property. There’s also another
component that could disqualify
potential income sources. They
could violate the vision of Fyrne
Lake being “pristine” meaning we
need to avoid income sources that
might contaminate the lake’s food
chain, damage forest habitat, cre-
ate erosion issues or overuse/wear
the property in anyway. So, mov-
ing forward, I needed to be very
selective about the income sourc-
es I would consider.
The vision also calls for sharing
the property with family, friends
the community. This was the easy
part, or so we thought. Shared ex-
cessively and we could start dam-
aging the pristine nature of the
property or lose
the private “our
home” aspect of
the farm. Luck-
ily, we eventu-
ally discovered
the power of
saying “no”
was occasion-
ally required to
protect our farm
and family time.
Every day on
the farm has
brought a new
adventure, chal-
lenge or oppor-
tunity. Added
together, we
have years of
choices, guided
by Fyrne Lake’s
vision and mis-
sion statements,
for the alloca-
tion of our time,
talent and re-
sources. There
is a lifetime
of work yet to
do. However,
I can take sat-
isfaction that
we have made
great progress
in creating the
dream that is
Fyrne Lake.
Save today. Start something big tomorrow
with your New Kubota Disc Mower!
$0Down,
0%Financing up to
60Months*
A.P.R.
© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2014
*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of new Kubota BX, B, L, M, TLB and ZP, DM, RA and TE Hay Tools equipment
is available to qualified purchasers from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory through 3/31/2014. Example: A 60-month monthly installment
repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer
documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Inclusion of
ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available for Rental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R.
and low-rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.,
3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 3/31/2014. See us for details on these
and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information.
First Choice Farm &
Lawn
1412 Stad Ave.
Union City,TN 38261
(731) 885-1315
First Choice Farm &
Lawn
305 Hwy 51 S
Dyersburg,TN 38024
731-882-1855
TENNESSEE ARMS LLC.WE BELIEVE IN THE RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS!
916 South Main Ave - Dyersburg, Tn 38024
731-334-5106 dave@tac-llc.com www.tnarmsco.com
TENNESSEE ARMS LLC
AR-15 CRUSADER BOLT SYSTEM
It’s a Military Spec bolt that we have
had coated in a proprietary coating,
requires no oil and will clean up with
water and a toothbrush. There is a video
of it online.
$190.00
TENNESSEE ARMS LLC
AR-15 POLYMER RECEIVER
No more gumming, powder build-up or corrosion!
Available in Black, Sand Tan, OD Green, Army
Foliage, Pink and Grass Grey.
Black - $45.00, Colors - $55.00
DEALER INQUIRES WELCOME!
CHRIS YOUNG FOR
DYER COUNTY MAYOR!
• FAMILY VALUES!
• CHRISTIAN BELIEF!
• HONESTY!
• EXPERIENCE!
• BETTER EDUCATION!
• MORE JOBS!
• ECONOMIC GROWTH!
• COMMUNITY PRIDE!
• PRESERVING OUR OUTDOOR HERITAGE!
• RESPECT FOR THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY!
A VOTE FOR CHRIS YOUNG
IS A VOTE FOR:
FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE!

Visit our Jackson, TN office, located at 2690 Bells Highway - Jackson, TN - (731) 660-4072
Since 2003, Best-One of Jackson has provided outstanding tire sales and service along with exceptional mechanical work
to customers in Jackson, Brownsville and Milan, Tennessee. We provide passenger, commercial and agricultural tires to the
West Tennessee area through honest and courteous service. We also have trained professionals who can perform a variety of
auto repairs to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
www.bestoneofjackson.com
LICENSED CONTRACTOR
Lynn brooks drew brooks
731-445-3722 731-445-1208
• new home construction
• additions/remodeling/repair
• insurance specialists
• least cost roofing
• plumbing
• floor support
If you want to work with a financially
stable company that will deliver
construction projects on-time and
within budget, then I highly recommend
renovation plus construction
- rob somerville
www.rpccpnstruction.com
Licensed General Contractors
Value Engineering / Constructability Analysis
• Over 30 years experience - since 1981
• Scope Includes
• New Construction (Home or
• Additions/Garages/Attic and Basement Build
• Outs/Sunrooms
• Renovations (partial or full-house makeovers)
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Construction Management
• Maintenance Contracts
• Repairs/Improvements
• Disaster Recovery
• Insurance Claim Specialists
• Repair – Rebuild - Total Restoration
• HVAC
• Electrical
• Interior Trim (crown molding, tile, cabinets, etc…)
• Painting (Interior and Exterior)
• Energy Improvements
delivers projects on-time and within budget, then work with
Renovation Plus Construction. - Rob Somerville
6401 Hwy 51 Bypass E. - Dyersburg, TN - 38024
731.445.3722 www.rpcconstruction.com
Aztec Pest Control of Dyersburg, Tennessee provides quality
pest control services throughout Northwest Tennessee and
Southeast Missouri. Locally owned and operated, with over
twenty years of combined experience within the pest control
industry we’re sure to provide you with quality service you can
depend on. We offer 24 hour emergency service and all our
work is guaranteed to your satisfaction. Call today for your
free estimate!
Providing quality services to residential, commercial and
also industrial clients throughout the area!
• Pest Removal – Bed bugs, termites, roaches, ants, brown
recluse spiders, and more.
• Pest Control – Pest control insulation, keep your home more
energy efficient and save!
• Products – We offer many environment friendly products
such as Termidor, Altriset, Cy-kick, and more.
Service plans available, call for more information.
Bill Browser - 731-445-2846
402 W Market St - Dyersburg, TN 38024
Phone: 731-288-6001
CHARTER #4412 - MO. LIC. # C17699
D.R.’s Auto Repair
& SERVICE CENTER
When I am in need of vehicle repairs, or
servicing, I always go see my good friend Daniel,
who owns D.R. Auto Repair & Service Center
in Kenton, Tennessee. - Rob Somerville
WE NOW CARRY A FULL LINE OF
AC/DELCO MARINE BATTERIES!
BRAKES - TUNE-UPS
ELECTRICAL REPAIRS AND INSPECTION
ALL MAJOR AND MINOR MECHANICAL
REPAIRS - TIRE ROTATIONS-
HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS.
530 N. Poplar - Kenton, TN.
731-749-5333

like the school, but I am not doing
very well in Bible studies.”
I told him that if those grades did
not go up there will be no more
hunting for him, and his grandpa
agreed. Rusty and Dalton got to
the dogs first and acknowledged to
me that the coon was in a hole, but
before we could handle the dogs,
my dog - Heidi dug the coon out
of the hole and the fight was on.
Now I know PETA may not like
this situation, but let one of them
get between a 75 lb. Walker Coon
Hound that is mad and about a 10
lb. male coon that is even mad-
der, and see what they do. All we
could do was watch and finally,
after about 30 minutes, the fight
was over and we loaded the coon
in our game bag and went back to
the truck. About two weeks later
I asked Rusty about Dalton and
he said, “His
grades are
up and when
I asked him
why, and if
was it because
of what Shawn
said or leav-
ing that Xbox
alone?” Dal-
ton replied, “It
was both and
anytime you or
Shawn want to
go coon hunt-
ing this Xbox
will be put
away and I am
going with ei-
ther one of you
to the woods.”
I looked at
Rusty and said,
“Can you believe that a kid these
days was wanting to go to the
woods and hunt, instead of sitting
on the couch and playing a video
game? Miracles do happen.”
That really made this old coon
hunter proud to hear these words
coming from a young kid. Hunt-
ing over technology, who would
have ever thought it? Winning
over one kid at a time to the out-
doors; that is the key. Hey, Rome
wasn’t built in a day, but after this
hunting trip I now think that may-
be there is hope in this crazy world
after all. Like I have said in my
articles before, we need to get the
young people in the woods. Just
ask and you might be surprised
at the answer. On closing this ar-
ticle I would like to congratulate
Corey Jeffries and Chad Smith for
placing fourth in Batesville, Mis-
sissippi at the UKC Winter Clas-
sic with their Black and Tan Dual
Champion “Muddy River Ice”.
Great job, fellows.
Until next time, I hope everything
is great, in everybody’s life, and
I’ll see you at the tree.
ello, to all you fine readers
of STO. I hope the weather this
early spring has not gotten you
down. As you all know, spring
is here and the hunting seasons
are closed, except for turkey and
squirrel. I hope everyone gets
their game bags filled. Hunting
season for coon closed Feb 15th,
but training season is open all
year, except where it is noted in
your trapping and hunting guides.
All you readers of STO know
that I try to get young people out
in the world of hunting. I am in
agreement with the people that say
“The youth of today are our future
and without them we will have no
future.” Also, you readers know I
can be somewhat pessimistic, but
things may be looking up for this
old coon hunter. Why, you ask?
The following is a ray of hope in a
world where the kids are growing
up too fast and too in sync with
technologies of today.
This story started a few
years ago with my brother, Rusty
Blalock and his grandson, Dal-
ton Noles. Dalton started hunt-
ing with us when he was around
seven and has been going ever
since then. In December of 2013,
Rusty and I took Dalton on a hunt
at local spot. The weather that
night was great, kind of warm and
not too windy. As we got every-
thing ready, Dalton (who is now
12 tears-old) said, “Paw, I want to
haul the coons and shoot them out
of the trees.” Rusty said with a lit-
tle snicker and a gleam of pride in
his eyes, “Sure Dal-
ton, if you want to.”
I realized what
Rusty was plan-
ning so I didn’t say a
word. I knew this can
either make or break
a young hunter by
hauling a game bag
full of coon through
the bottoms for a
few hours. In fact, it
may even break an
experienced hunter
as well. We released
the hounds and they
were off, and within
30 minutes we treed,
found the coon and
shot it out. The coon
weighed about 15 lbs. and Dal-
ton shot it out (one shot and it fell
out dead). I thought to myself that
this little devil can shoot even bet-
ter than me or his granddad. We
were all thrilled. We packed him
up with the coon and off we went.
Luckily, we were not far from the
truck and he hauled the heavy
coon, never once complaining
on the walk back. We went down
the road and released the hounds
again. Once more the hounds
treed. We got out and located the
coon. Dalton, once again with
one shot, shoots the coon out. We
figured that it was not bad for an
hour long hunt and decided to call
it a night and go again some other
time.
Fast forward to January 14th
.
I called Rusty to see if he and
Dalton wanted to go again and
sure enough they did. We loaded
up and got to the spot where we
decided to hunt and released the
hounds. As they tore through the
night, Dalton said once again. “I
will haul the coons and I want to
shoot them.” We said, “Okay big
boy, you can.”
About that time we heard Heidi
strike and run deep off in the bot-
toms. We stopped to listen and I
told Rusty that it sounded like the
coon was in a ground hole and
Rusty agreed. As we were walk-
ing to the dogs I started asking
Dalton about school (Christ Clas-
sicalAcademy) how he likes it and
about his grades. He answered, “I
Kids and CoonsBy Shawn Todd
H
All we could do was watch and finally, after about 30 minutes,
the fight was over and we loaded the coon in our game bag
and went back to the truck. - STO File Photo
Can you believe that a kid these days was wanting to
go to the woods hunting, instead of playing a video
game? Miracles do happen. - STO File Photo

www.triplettirepros.com
270 US Hwy 51 Bypass South
Dyersburg, TN 38024
731-287-0333
Mon-Fri: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
2845 East Wood Street
Paris, TN 38242
731-642-0313
Mon-Fri: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
450 US Hwy 51 Bypass East
Dyersburg, TN 38024
731-285-8323
Mon-Fri: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat: 8:00 am - Noon
$6 OFF
Lube, Oil & Filter Service
With this coupon. Expires 6/30/14.
6 MONTHS, NO INTEREST FINANCING AVAILABLE
JUST A FEW REASONS TO BUY FROM TTT TIRE PROS!
TripleT_Mag_7.12x4.38_04.16.14_Layout 1 4/15/14 2:03 PM Page 1
ROBERTS-GIBSON, INC.
&
P & J PETROLEUM
DYERSBURG OFFICE - CONTACT LARRY OR TIM GIBSON AT: 731-285-4941
UNION CITY OFFICE - CONTACT DEVON GREGSON AT: 731-885-1747
GREENFIELD OFFICE - CONTACT:
SHEA MIX AT: 731-676-4242 OR JAMIE BARNER AT: 731-514-3065
Servicing farmers,
construction,
and
commercial accounts
in all of West Tennessee
and parts of
Missouri, Kentucky
&
Mississippi!
ALTHOUGH WE
OCCASIONALLY
HIT A BUMP IN
THE ROAD, WE
STILL REMAIN
NUMBER ONE IN
CUSTOMER
SERVICE!
OWNER: STEVE SARTIN
1990 ST. JOHN AVE - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-286-4401 CELL: 731-445-8383
QUALITY OUTDOOR PRODUCTS
CARPORTS
STARTING AT $495.00
SARTIN’S
AUTO SALES
“IF WE DON’T HAVE IT - WE’LL TRY TO FIND IT”
Advertise in
Contact Rob Somerville
731-446-8052

NORTHWEST TENNESSEE
TOURISM
• HUNT
• FISH
• BOAT
• GOLF
• SWIM
• HIKE
• CAMP
• LODGING
• FINE FOOD
Northwest Tennessee... A Great Place to Be!
We can fulfill
your entire
family’s vacation
dreams!
NORTHWEST TENNESSEE
TOURISM
731-593-0171
kentuckylaketourism.com
reelfootlakeoutdoors.com
3
Hunter Newbill’s first name describes him just right. He is a
dedicated outdoorsman, who is very involved with introducing
today’s youth, safely and ethically, into the outdoor lifestyle.
He is a perfect choice for sportsmen or farmers that are
shopping for a home, hunting land, farm acreage, or
recreational property.
Eddie Anderson - Co-owner STO Magazine
Hunter Newbill
Broker - GRI - CRS - ABR
2455 Lake Rd. - Suite 8 - Dyersburg, TN.
{Off.} 731-285-5505 {Cell} 731-445-9998
hunter@dyersburg.com
www.dyersburg.com
Professional
Real Estate
Group
Specializing in all types of
property, including hunting
ground, wildlife management
areas, game hunting leases, farm
property, and more.
Please contact me for all your real
estate needs.
HYDRAULICS,
BEARINGS
SUPPLIES, TOOLS
& PARTS
FOR HOME,
FARM & FLEET
WE NOW CARRY
HUNTING EQUIPMENT!
Jackson
982 Lower Brownsville Rd.
Jackson, TN.
38301
731-427-7725
Humboldt
Hwy. 70A-79 By-Pass
Humboldt, TN
38343
731-784-1761
Jackson
Handy Home Center
330 South Royal Street
Jackson, TN 38301
731-423-0115
Union City
1501 South First St.
Union City, TN
38261
731-885-5063
Dyersburg
121 South King Ave. - Dyersburg, TN - 38024
731-285-1543
www.hcisupply.com
OCTOBER -NOVEMBER 2013 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS 33
Union City Ford
wEST TENNESSEE’S 4X4 HEADQUARTERS!
2014
FORD 250
SUPER CHIEF
2022 West Reelfoot Avenue - Union City, TN 38261
(731) 885-8833
www.fordlincoln.com
TAYLOR AUTOMOTIVE
MEET YOUR 2014 CHEVY TRUCK LINE-UP!
11989 Hwy 22 East in Martin, Tennessee.
(888) 251-4751
www.taylorautomotive.net.
2014 CHEVY
SILVERADO!
470 US Highway 51 Byp W.
Dyersburg, TN - 38024
731-285-8747
CHARLES M. AGEE JR.
Attorney at Law
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE - PERSONAL INJURY
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY
CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS
VEHICULAR ACCIDENTS
NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE
CRIMINAL OFFENSES & MORE .....

FIRST CITIZENS NATIONAL BANK
For 125 years, people in Dyersburg, Dyer County and the
surrounding areas have depended on the strength and stability
of First Citizens National Bank. Today, they are still the friendly
faces that help guide you, your family, and your business to a
bright financial future. First Citizens offers a variety of services
including: Checking Accounts, Commercial Loans, Mortgage Loans, Savings
Accounts, Online and Mobile Banking, Investments, Retirement Accounts, plus
much more.
First Citizens National Bank is headquartered in Dyersburg, with locations
throughout the state of Tennessee.
They have financial centers in Union City, Troy, Newbern, Ripley, Munford
Atoka, Martin, Millington, Bartlett, Arlington, Oakland, Collierville, & Franklin.
A new Jackson, Tennessee office is now under construction and is expected to
open in 2014. Upon completion of a current merger with Southern Heritage in
Cleveland, Tennessee, First Citizens will be a full service community bank with
24 locations and approximately $1.5 billion in assets.
For more information about First Citizens National Bank, please visit www.
FirstCNB.com.
The folks that work there are very professional, but they are also the perfect
example of Southern Hospitality. I know this for a fact, because it is where STO
Magazine does its banking.
- Rob Somerville
GIBSON FARMER’S CO-OP
FOR FARM, HOME & THE GREAT OUTDOORS!
Your local Gibson Farmer’s
Co-op is your one-stop shop
for farm, home, your lawn and
garden and the great outdoors!
For farmers, they carry shelled
corn and feed for cattle, swine,
horses and poultry, minerals
for cattle and horses, seed for
forage, fescue, turf grass, rye
grass, soybeans, corn and wheat. They also carry the top of the line in agricultural seeds like Asgrow, Dekalb, Croplan, Pioneer,
Stine, Progeny, Northup King, FFR, Mycogen and many more.
For both farmers and homeowners they carry all types of bulk and bag fertilizer, and all your lawn and garden needs up to and
including vegetable seeds.
Hunters love the convenient location of the co-ops, as many carry ammo, hunting blinds, deer minerals & attractants, as well
as Trophy Rock, UnderArmour, Muck Boots, and Drake Outdoor products. You can even get a mixture of various seeds for an
ultimate wildlife foodplot under their expert advice.
In West Tennessee, Gibson Farmer’s Co-op stores are located in Dyersburg {731-285-7161}, Trenton {731-855-1891}, Big Boy
Junction {731-285-0202}, Dyer {731-665-6161}, Newbern {731-627-2525} and Milan {731-787-6618}.
STO Magazine highly recommends this business!
- Rob Somerville
About Dyersburg State:
Dyersburg State Community College (DSCC) was founded in 1969 by
the State Board of Education as the second community college in West
Tennessee.
Today, Dyersburg State provides higher education to thousands of
students throughout three locations: including the Dyersburg campus,
the Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County and the Gibson County Center
in Trenton. These convenient locations help serve the communities of
Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Lake, Lauderdale, Obion and Tipton counties.
Approximately 3,400 total students attend Dyersburg State Community
College.
Under the leadership of President Karen Bowyer, Dyersburg State has
become a major resource for workforce development and training for region-
al business and industry. Offering courses in the arts and sciences, business
and technology, and nursing and allied health, Dyersburg State is a compre-
hensive community college that provides traditional and non-traditional
students with high-quality career programs and courses designed to enable
them to obtain their associate degree for professional career opportunities or
to easily transfer to a four-year college through the Tennessee Transfer Path-
ways (TTP) program. Instruction is delivered through traditional, online
and interactive television classes.
Dyersburg State also offers a very successful Dual/Joint Enrollment
program to eligible high school juniors and seniors who wish to get a jump
start on college. The college also provides Learning Support and continuing education courses at each campus. Enriching the
culture of West Tennessee through its performing and fine arts programs, Dyersburg State hosts a variety of music concerts and
recitals, theatrical productions, art exhibits and an annual Literary and Visual Arts Celebration.
On a personal note, I actually attended Dyersburg State at their Trenton Campus, as a forty year-old father of two, taking
Business Management courses. I found their curriculum to be comfortable, informative and very educational.
- Rob Somerville
Bad Bob’s LLC is an authorized Traeger dealer. They
carry various models of smokers, including the portable
PTG, the popular Lil’ Texas Elite, the polished Traeger
Deluxe, up to trailer-mounted commercial grills.
They use all natural wood pellets as fuel, which they
carry in ten different flavors, including classics like
Hickory, Pecan and Mesquite, as well as Sugar Maple
and various fruit woods like Apple and Cherry. These
grills sport easy operation to complement the natural
wood smoke and even cooking by convection air flow.
Each grill has digital and computer controlled
thermostats that remove all of the guesswork from
maintaining your optimal cooking temperatures, so
your birds come out juicy and your ribs come out
tender. These cookers are perfect for slow smoking a
Boston butt, a mouthwatering pork loin, or even wild
game. Cooking on a Traeger wood pellet burning grill
combines a fuel price cheaper than charcoal with the convenience of cooking with gas.
They also offer grilling tools, accessories, and seasonings, including BadBob’s signature line of rubs and sauces. Cooking
schools are offered periodically through the year to teach you the finer points of grilling as well, for your home barbeque or
the competition circuit. They often have special deals on these grills, along with manufacturer’s rebates to help take a load off
of your pocketbook. Feel free to call and find out more, or drop by in person to see them yourself in their showroom.
Bad Bob’s LLC is located at 2005 St. John Ave. in Dyersburg, Tennessee. You can call them at 731-286-5256 or visit them
online at www.badbobs.net. - Rob Somerville
BAD BOB’S LLC
TRAEGER - HANDCRAFTED
PELLET GRILLS

LAKE ROAD
BP - AMOCO
OWNER:
BART GILLON
A Full Service Station!
Tires, Propane {LP Gas}, Brake Service,
Starters, Alternators ....
and all Types of Mechanical Repairs!
Quality Service and Reasonable Rates!
WE NOW CARRY
THE ALL NEW
DUCK
COMMANDER
“WAKE MAKER”
DECOY SYSTEMS!
520 Lake Road
Dyersburg TN. 38024
1-731-286-2999
All New
RTV X Series!
Introducing the next generation of North America’s top-selling diesel utility vehicle
for 10 years running. Rugged, truck-inspired styling. Powerful Kubota diesel engines.
And more hardworking features and options than ever before.
www.kubota.com
Optional equipment may be shown.
©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2013
First Choice
Farm &
Lawn
1412 Stad Ave.
Union City,TN
38261
(731) 885-1315
First Choice
Farm &
Lawn
305 Hwy 51 S
Dyersburg,TN
38024
731-882-1855
FARM-HOME-RECREATION-HUNTING
213 W. Court St. - Dyersburg,TN. - 38024
731-285-5201 - www.ygafco.com
LET US FURNISH YOUR ...
HUNTING LODGE OR CABIN!
BENTLEY’S
AUTO REPAIR
OIL CHANGES - BRAKES - NEW TIRES
COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS - BATTERIES
SHOCKS - STRUTS - BEARINGS - LUBE
TRANSMISSION SERVICE & REPAIR
ENGINE REPLACEMENT & REPAIR
TUNE-UPS - CUSTOM WHEELS & RIMS
RADIATORS - WATER PUMPS
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
BELTS & HOSES - FLAT TIRE REPAIR
FREE ESTIMATES - GUARANTEED WORK
... AND MUCH MORE!
A Christian Business With Old-School Values!
Now open & conveniently located near downtown Dyersburg!
109 S. KING AVE.
DYERSBURG, TN
731-334-5692
MOTOTRBO™ Linked Capacity Plus
If you need to communicate to a large field force across a wide area with a scalable,
easy-to-use system, then Linked Capacity Plus is your cost-effective solution.
Leveraging advanced repeater software, it is available in both single-site and
wide-area configurations.
Whether crews need to talk to each other in the field or back at the office or they
need to use data applications such as text messaging, location tracking or work
order tickets, Linked Capacity Plus makes their work safer and their work day more
productive.
WEST TENNESSEE
COMMUNICATIONS
1295 HWY 51 S BYPASS
DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-286-6275
WWW.WETEC.COM
PERFECT FOR:
FARMING, CONSTRUCTION,
INDUSTRIAL USE AND MORE!

that the agency has received an
aquatic nuisance species grant for
$24,286. Real Estate Division Chief
Tim Churchill announced that the
agency had received a Federal grant
for $417,000 to purchase 205 acres
in Hickman County. The TFWC
approved both budget expansions.
Registration is underway for
the Fifth Annual Wounded Soldier
Open Bass Tournament to be held
at Paris Landing on Kentucky Lake,
Saturday, May 17th.
The tournament format will be
a 3-fish limit with a guaranteed first
prize of $2,000.
The cost of the tournament
is $110 per boat (two anglers
maximum). Entrants who register
by the end of the day on May 1 will
receive a free T-shirt
The tournament benefits
the Wounded Soldier Program
and the Tennessee Wildlife
Resources Foundation. The
Tennessee Wildlife Resources
Agency serves as one of the sponsors
of the event. The tournament is
presented by Smyrna Ready Mix.
To register for the event or
for more information, go to the
Foundation website at www.twrf.net
or contact Todd Spann (615) 642-
6670 or spannbldr@aol.com; Mitzi
Spann (615) 587-3392 or Bill Terry
at (615) 878-5099.
KENTUCKY LAKE WOUNDED
SOLDIER OPEN BASS TOUR-
NAMENT SCHEDULED FOR
MAY 17
Registration is underway for
the Fifth Annual Wounded Soldier
Open Bass Tournament to be held
at Paris Landing on Kentucky Lake,
Saturday, May 17th. The tournament
format will be a 3-fish limit with
a guaranteed first prize of $2,000.
The cost of the tournament is $110
per boat (two anglers maximum).
Entrants who register by the end of
the day on May 1st will receive a free
T-shirt.
The tournament benefits the
Wounded Soldier Program and
the Tennessee Wildlife Resources
Foundation. The Tennessee Wildlife
Resources Agency serves as one
of the sponsors of the event. The
tournament is presented by Smyrna
Ready Mix.
To register for the event or
for more information, go to the
Foundation website at www.twrf.net
or contact Todd Spann (615) 642-
6670 or spannbldr@aol.com; Mitzi
Spann (615) 587-3392 or Bill
Terry at (615) 878-5099.
For more information on these
or other TWRA news, go to
www.tnwildlife.org.
TWRA’s Strategic Plan Meets
Commission’s Approval
The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife
Commission approved the Tennessee
Wildlife Resources Agency’s
proposed strategic plan among its
agenda items at their March meeting.
Commission members received
a copy of the TWRA’s new strategic
plan last February. TWRA Executive
Director Ed Carter gave a brief
presentation on the plan. The new
plan, to be unveiled in 2014, is
unlike any previous strategic plan
implemented by the agency.
In the past, due to the depletion
of wildlife resources, throughout the
early parts of the 20th century, the
agency focused mainly on species
restoration and protection. The
agency followed the North American
Model of Wildlife Conservation that
identifies wildlife as a public trust
belonging to all the people. The
agency has successfully restored
many species that were once
considered rare or non-existent in the
state.
The strategic plan identifies
four core areas in which the agency
strives to provide these services,
while still protecting our natural
resources. The areas are Wildlife
Management, Outdoor Recreation,
Law Enforcement, and Information
and Education.
The plan, approved unanimously
by the commission, will begin to be
implemented immediately.
In other business, new statewide
Waterfowl Coordinator Joe Benedict
was introduced to the TFWC,
and reported on the recently-held
technical meeting of the Mississippi
Flyway Council held in Nashville.
The TWRA supported a
recommendationforanewtealseason
for northern states and proposed
increasing the daily bag limit to six
birds and for more teal-only days
during the September wood duck and
teal season. A teal assessment study
completed in 2013 indicates that teal
are under-harvested. Final decisions
on these recommendations will be
made by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service in August.
Benedict said a U.S. Senate
bill was introduced to increase the
Federal duck stamp from $15 to $25
to maintain buying power. However,
no companion bill was introduced in
the U.S. House of Representatives,
which indicates that the bill is
unlikely to pass this year.
TWRA will ask to sell federal
duck stamps via point of sale vendors
this fall. Currently, this is a pilot
project with eight states participating.
This will provide convenience for
hunters to purchase a stamp and
receive them by mail.
Brant Miller, TWRA staff
forester, gave a report to the
commission regarding the
announcement of the agency
receiving theArbor Day Foundation’s
2014 Forest Lands Leadership
Award. The award is in recognition
for the TWRA’s bottomland
hardwood forest restoration program
in West Tennessee. The award is
given annually to an individual or
organization from across the nation
whose outstanding work provides
leadership in advancing sustainable
forestry efforts on public forest land.
The TWRA will officially receive the
award next month in Nebraska City,
Nebraska.
Rusty Rust, a professional bass
angler, made a presentation on
Florida bass and fishing tournaments
held in Tennessee.
Bobby Wilson, TWRA
Fisheries Division Chief, announced
TWRA NEWSFrom the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency
Reach over 45,000 middle to
upper-middle class income earners
by advertising with us now.
Contact Rob Somerville for more information.
731-446-8052
stomag1@gmail.com
LAMBERT
SECURITY
• BURGLAR ALARMS
• FIRE ALARMS
• COMMERCIAL
• RESIDENTIAL
• SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEMS
• FREE ESTIMATES
• FREE ALARM SYSTEM
1900 UPPER FINLEY RD - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
1-888-496-SAFE OR 731-285-SAFE
JEFF LAMBERT: CELL: 931-2810
MENTION THIS
AD FOR FREE
MONITORING
OFFER!

Let your
smart phone
be your key
to the great
outdoors!
Available now at
the App Store and
Google Play
Locate a WMAFishing reports
Buy your license
Stocking schedules
Renew boat
registration
Sunrise, sunset
tables
Check in big game
Wildlife viewing locations
Watchable wildlife
Find a boat ramp
Three Generations of Mitchells take First Place!
Near record Big Fish of the Pickwick Event!
This past April, the Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail
hit the waters of the Pickwick/Wilson Lakes at Sheffield,
Alabama. In the event, over 65 of the top anglers from 11
different states were competing not only for the cash and
prizes, but the opportunity to qualify for the 2014 Cabela’s
King Kat East and West Championship. This year’s West
Championship will be held September 19th & 20th, 2014
on the Mississippi and Rock Rivers at Quad Cities, Iowa.
The East Championship will be held October 3rd & 4th,
2014 on Lake Wateree at Camden, South Carolina. Be sure
to check out their website at: www.kingkatusa.com. It’s
a site with new and exciting information on their events
along with special information on catfishing for catfish
anglers everywhere. - Rob Somerville
MONSTER CAT FROM PICKWICK LAKE!
It tipped the scales at 86.98 pounds. Displaying the trophy
catch are Jackson, Michael and Sammy Mitchell of Albertville,
Alabama.
Photo: King Kat
LOAN & JEWELRY
DIAMONDS
&
COINS!
NEED CASH?
COME AND SEE US!
FAST & CONFIDENTIAL!
HUGE INVENTORY OF
USED GUNS!
GLOCK DEALERSHIP!
MON-FRI: 8:30 AM TO 5:30 PM
SATURDAY: 8:30 AM TO 3:30 PM
OAKS SHOPPING CENTER
2455 LAKE RD - DYERSBURG, TN
731-286-0445 731-286-2274
ACTION

All of my friends love to hunt and fish, but even more than enjoying these outdoor
adventures, they love to eat. Today, we will look at some unique and delicious wild
game recipes. Fish and wild game are some of the healthiest foods you can eat. They are
one hundred percent pure and natural and not injected with growth promoting steroids. Wild
game is high in protein and low in fats and carbohydrates. The most important factor in preparing a delicious
meal of fish or game is the care you take in the field or on the water, after catching or harvesting them. It is
important to immediately dress and cool the fish or animal, rinse it thoroughly and immediately refrigerate
or freeze it. Hope you enjoy these unique recipes. If you have a favorite of your own, you can email me at
stomag1@gmail.com. Now, roll up your sleeves, pull up to the table and enjoy!
Monterey Jack cheese
Toothpicks (soak in water) Duck breasts
Hot Pan Sausage
Italian
Dressing
Bacon
Jalapeno
peppers
Cajun spices
Onion
Sponsored by Sponsored by
Cajun Duck Breasts
INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: Pound out the duck
breasts with a meat cleaver. Roll the sausage
into a small sized hot dog shape and place in
the middle of the breasts. Add a slice of onion
and a whole jalapeno and fold the breast over.
Wrap bacon around breast and secure with
toothpicks. Sprinkle generously with Cajun
spices and marinate in Italian dressing for 24
hours. Grill on the pit until done. Place foil over
the breasts while grilling. Add cheese before
removing from grill. These are great and the
sausage adds flavor, plus prevents the breasts
from drying out.
8 bone venison racks,
trimmed and cut into double
chops
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 TBSP olive oil
8 peppercorns, crushed
several sprigs fresh thyme
3 ounce port wine
Venison Rib Delight with Sweet Potatoe Puree and Vegetables
RIB INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: Combine ingredients and massage into venison. Marinate overnight or
for several hours. Bring to room temperature before cooking. Cook in stove at 350 degrees for
twenty minutes. Do not overcook.
3 sweet potatoes, baked for 45 minutes
3 TB butter
Salt and pepper
SWEET POTATOE PUREE INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: Peel potatoes and put through a food mill with salt, pepper and butter.
Set aside and keep warm.
VEGETABLES INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: In separate pans, add
Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and carrots. Add
to each a pinch of salt, pepper, sugar, 2 TBSP
of water, and a little butter. Cook until glazed
for about 10 minutes. You may need to add
a little more water if it evaporates before the
vegetables are tender.
8 Brussels sprouts, halved
2 parsnips, peeled and cut
into 3 inch by 1/2 inch pieces
2 carrots, peeled and cut into
3 inch by 1/2 inch pieces
2 TBSP butter
Salt and pepper
Pinch of sugar
Water

Sponsored by
1 pound crappie fillets
2 TBSP vegetable oil
1 & 1/2 cups celery, cut
diagonally
1 green bell pepper, cut into
1/4-inch strips
1/4 cup green onions,
chopped
1/2 cup fresh mushrooms,
sliced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 chicken bouillon cubes
1 and 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup soy sauce
Stir-Fry Crappie
INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: Dissolve chicken bouillon cubes in water. Heat oil in heavy skillet. Cut
fillets into 1 and 1/2 inch strips. Sauté the fish and vegetables for 3 minutes. Add cornstarch,
garlic powder, soy sauce and bouillon.
Bring to a boil for 3 minutes, until thickened and hot.
2 squirrels (6 quail or 2
pheasants can be substituted)
Flour
Oil
Two onions, sliced
1 can condensed milk
Poultry seasoning
Salt
Pepper
Smothered Squirrel
INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: Quarter game and dust with flour and brown lightly in small amount of
oil. Transfer to Dutch oven and lay onion slices over the top of each piece of game. Mix milk and
seasonings together and pour over the game. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until tender.
Zesty Italian Dressing (bottle)
1 can of Jalapeno Peppers
(pickled)
Salt
Worchestshire Sauce
(3/4 cup)
Bacon
25-30 strips of cut venison –
cut in 1” by 5” strips
Deer Poppers
INGREDIENTS:
Cooking Instructions: Soak meat overnight in salt water to remove blood. Cut the peppers in
half - long ways. Wrap the 1/2 pepper in deer strip, and then wrap with bacon. Push toothpick
all the way through the center to keep everything together. Mix Worchestire sauce and Zesty
Italian dressing together in a bowl. Marinade meat all night in fridge. Grill the next day for 3 to 5
minutes per side. Do not over cook.
Serving Suggestions: Serve like hors devoirs. Make sure grill is hot and don’t overcook
venison or it will dry out.
Sponsored by

THE MID-SOUTH’S EXPERTS IN THE MOST MODERN
AND AFFORDABLE SECURITY MONITORING SYSTEMS!
■ Instant & convenient data backup using CD/DVD or USB drive
■ Intuitive Mouse Operation
■ Exclusive backup data player
■ Free Dynamic DNS
■ Built-in Pan/Tilt/Zoom/Focus camera protocols over 30 models.
■ Automatic Video Input and Video loss detection
■ Multiple Client Software and web-viewer for PC
■ NTP (Network Time Protocol)
■ Free Dynamic DNS
PROTECT YOUR HOME, PROPERTY, FARM OR BUSINESS!
WEST TENNESSEE COMMUNICATIONS
1295 HWY 51 S BYPASS - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-286-6275
WWW.WETEC.COM
WE SUPPORT THE
DYER CO. SHERIFF
FARM WATCH!
YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICAL SUPPLY EXPERTS FOR:
FARM - INDUSTRY - UTILTIES - COMMERCIAL - RESIDENTIAL
Our unique background of providing electrical supplies and
equipment to rural America has positioned Cape Electric as a
leading distributor to local, regional, and national customers.
Cape Electric also understands the people side of doing business.
Talk with anyone on our team and we think you’ll agree.
Our business model is simple:
The customer is our universe and we use our resources to satisfy the customer.
339 HIGHWAY 51 BYPASS - DYERSBURG, TN 38024
731-286-0477
WWW.CAPEELECTRIC.COM
West Tennesse’s Most Modern and Enviromentally Friendly Body Shops!
CARSTAR five-year nationwide and limited lifetime warranty, 24/7 Accident
Assistance, Free Estmates, Bonded & Insured, Licensed by most major
insurance companies!
Two Convenient Locations in West Tennessee:
432 N Trenton Street - Rutherford - 731-665-6186
2340 Upper Finley Rd. - Dyersburg - 731-882-1971
www.carstar.com/russoms
NEW & USED TIRES!
FLATS FIXED!
MECHANIC ON DUTY!
“OUR GOAL IS TO DO OUR CUSTOMERS RIGHT”
BEST PRICES & CUSTOMER SERVICE IN TOWN!
OWNER: BOBBY ATCHISON
1580 FORREST ST - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-334-9707
DYERSBURG
SECURITY STORAGE
SPRING
CLEANING
STORAGE
SPECIALS!
NEW OWNER!
NEW MANAGEMENT!
DYERSBURG
Visit Dyer County,Tennessee
ASportsman’s Paradise!
Located just 1/2 hour, from beautiful Reelfoot Lake, Dyer
County has something for everyone. From the finest motels,
restaurants, shopping malls, and bars ... we welcome all
sportsmen that are hunting or fishing at the “Quake Lake.”
There is nowhere else for miles that can offer
hunting and fishing licenses, sporting goods,
cost-efficient - yet clean and comfortable
lodging, and a cold beer or cocktail.
Our restaurants can tempt you with every-
thing from a “Black Angus” ribeye steak - to
fast food. The best feature of all, which Dyer
County has to offer, is that you will always
enjoy your visit with us, in a safe and
friendly atmosphere.
So, what are you waiting for?
As far as area ratings go ...
You can’t score higher than Dyer!
www.dyerchamber.com

rappie don’t just dry up and
disappear after spring spawning
takes place. Neither should you
and your fellow anglers.
After a cold and windy spring
I’m reminded just how much
I love the great, early summer
crappie fishing here on Kentucky
Lake. Stability of lake levels cou-
pled with predictable weather pat-
terns, help anglers land con-
sistent stringers, as fishing
patterns hold up from week
to week.
Crazy cold fronts that ar-
rive overnight, blown in by
gale force north winds can
really upset the apple cart,
but odds of drastic weather
changes are slim this time of
year.
It seems that so many
fishermen overlook and un-
derrate the early summer bite
that has been proven to be
consistent for years. The li-
on’s share of crappie anglers
here in Tennessee, and really
all across the nation, fall un-
der the umbrella of “spring
only” slab seekers.
While it’s true that spring
fever always stimulates a
high level of enthusiasm among
the ranks of crappie fishermen,
especially when the dogwoods
bloom and fish blitz toward shal-
low water, it doesn’t necessarily
mean that’s the only season crap-
pie bite.
Once the crappie spawn here
on Kentucky Lake, they slowly
transition back toward deeper wa-
ter, where summer venues await
them. However, between the hot
summer hideouts and the post-
spawn phase, crappie stage in
midrange depths and congregate
around structure in the 10 to 14
foot depths.
The fish find a comfort zone
in between their shallow spawn-
ing hot spots and the deep, main
lake drop-offs where the dog days
of summer will find them in the
months ahead.
For the last several years I’ve
logged some consistent catches of
hefty fish throughout the period
of late May, June and early July,
from these midrange hideouts. In
fact, some of my best catches have
occurred during the early summer
period and throughout the fine fall
months of September, October
and early November.
There are just so many vari-
ables to deal with during the late
winter and early spring. Those
variables don’t throw curves to
anglers in the early summer phase
and that’s why crappie caught in
one depth range or area of the
lake will likely stay put for
anglers returning the follow-
ing week.
Popular techniques to use
are vertical jig or live min-
now presentations, around
submerged cover in the form
of manmade fish attractors,
such as brushpiles and stake-
beds. Trolling crankbaits is
another strategy that works
well this time of year.
Earlier in the year, crappie
often suspend and scatter,
but as surface temperatures
warm into the upper 70’s and
low 80’s it seems the fish take
on a more structure oriented
mood. They relate closely to
the cover and possess a vora-
cious appetite too.
Perhaps the fish relate
closely to the structure for
shade, or because schools of
shad have now migrated back to
these midrange depths. The crap-
pie love to hold tight and ambush
their prey and structure in mid-
range depths.
I usually rely on a 1/16th or
1/8th ounce jig, armed with a
tube skirt or sometimes a hair
body. Popular color choices can
vary from chartreuse variations
to some motor oil, or clear skirts
sporting glitter.
Tipping a jig with a minnow,
or a Berkley’s Power Bait in the
form of white or chartreuse nib-
bles, seems to entice strikes even
more.
Using monofilament line in the
six to eight pound range works
well. Moving up to ten pound
test line is okay too and may help
bend snagged hooks free and help
get your jigs back.
Tight-lining the bait of your
choice can be done on long spin-
ning rods, or on two-piece graph-
ite rods, in the nine to eleven foot
lengths. These long poles work
well with light duty reels, so depth
can be easily adjusted.
Light strikes can be detected
easily on these sensitive rods and
watching the line and your rod’s
tip is important.
Sometimes, just tight-lining a
minnow will pay dividends too.
The crappie are the ultimate judge
when it comes to your decision
to use live bait or a certain color
choice of tube skirts. Keep a buf-
fet of colors available in your
tackle box and don’t be too stub-
born to experiment.
Even if you don’t have your
own fish attractors buried in the
lake, there’s enough natural cover
still left along the shallow flats
and upper edges of main lake
drop-offs to harbor fish. Pay close
attention to your sonar screen and
key in on areas where both struc-
ture and baitfish activity are found
in close proximity.
Keeping structure marking
buoys handy is another tip to help
you conquer these
early summer pat-
terns for consistent
crappie catches.
Once you find
submerged struc-
ture, you’ll need to
pinpoint the spot
and stay on it with
your trolling mo-
tor. Tossing a buoy
marker out will help
you stay in the right
place, as winds can
easily push you
away, causing you
to lose the location
where buried trea-
sure troves of fish
await you.
Most crappie
fishermen on Ken-
tucky Lake got beat
up this past spring
by the stubborn
winds and uninvit-
ed cold fronts. As
a result, catch rates
were down for a lot
of anglers, who bat-
tled the weather and
lost the war.
If you were the
victim of a crazy
spring, and haven’t
quite met your
quota for catching
crappie, then give
this early summer
gig with a jig a try.
You just might find
that you too have
overlooked this fine
fishing time!
Editor’s note: Steve McCad-
ams is a professional guide and
outdoor writer from Paris, TN.
He can be reached at
stevemc@charter.net.
Nice catches like this can be taken in midrange depths once
spawning is over, as the crappie slowly transition toward sum-
mer patterns. - Photo by Steve McCadams
The author displays one of several early-summer, slab crap-
pie he has taken on Kentucky Lake, during his 39-year career.
- Photo by Steve McCadams
Summer Slabs at Kentucky Lake
By Steve McCadams
C
Slabs still have to eat during late spring and early sum-
mer, long after spawning time. Late May and throughout
the month of June are prime crappie months that are
overlooked by many anglers. - Photo by Steve McCadams

WHO’S YOUR BABY?
DRAW A LINE CONNECTING THE
BABY ANIMAL TO IT’S NAME!
EAGLET
PUP
CUB
GOSLING
DUCKLING
KIT
OWLET
FAWN
POULT
CALF
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
ANSWERS:
1. - BABY BEAR - CUB, 2. - BABY FOX - KIT, 3. - BABY MOOSE - CALF, 4. - BABY MALLARD DUCK - DUCKLING
5. - BABY EAGLE - EAGLET, 6. - BABY DEER - FAWN, 7. - BABY TURKEY - POULT
8. - BABY GOOSE - GOSLING, 9. BABY COYOTE - PUP, 10. - BABY OWL - OWLET.
OD.
.4410
that’s good
tional Bank
passion to
e and fan-
onsistently
y banks in
f, in person
2/7/14 5:26 PM
SPONSORED
BY
Calling all youngsters who
want to catch fish and win prizes
at the same time!
The 15th Annual Steve McC-
adams “Casting For a Cure” Kid’s
Fishing Rodeo returns to Carroll
Lake on Saturday, June 7th for a
fun-filled morning, where even
little fish bring on big smiles.
Girls and boys, ages 15 and
under, are invited to participate in
the FREE event, which will ben-
efit the American Cancer Society.
Each year, McCadams teams up
with the Tennessee Wildlife Re-
sources Agency and the big event
is fast approaching.
More than 3,900 kids from
five different states have been in-
troduced to the great sport of fish-
ing since the rodeo’s conception.
Special plaques and bicycles
will be awarded to kids catching
the most and the biggest fish in
four separate age brackets. The
age brackets will be 5 and under,
6-9, 11-12, and 13-15 years of age.
“Returning to my hometown
and hosting this rodeo is my fa-
vorite fishing day each year,” said
McCadams, nationally known
outdoorsman who lends his name
to the event. “Thanks to the help of
the TWRA and lots of volunteers
and donations, the festivity will
build some self-esteem in these
future fishermen, as they fight fish
and cancer at
the same time.”
“With the help of
donors, who open their
hearts and pocketbooks
each year, we send every
youngster home with a
prize and fond memo-
ries. I know we’ve made
a positive impression
on these kids over the
years and in so doing
we helped fight cancer
at the same time,” con-
tinued McCadams, who
grew up fishing Carroll
Lake and participated
in rodeos there in days
gone by.
Participants are
asked to arrive early and
check-in at the registra-
tion tent, where each
contestant will receive a
bag of goodies. Onsite registration
will be from 7 to 9 a.m. with the
actual competition taking place
from 9 to 11 a.m. {except for the
youngest age bracket of 5 and un-
der, who will just fish for one hour
and weigh in at 10 a.m.}.
Loaner rods will be available,
courtesy of the TWRA, so every
kid will have a chance to fish.
However, kids are encouraged to
bring their own bait and tackle.
Concessions will be available,
courtesy of the McKenzie Relay
for Life teams.
“It’s a great opportunity for
kids to learn about the great
sport of fishing, while sharing
some time with their family and
friends,” said McCadams, himself
a cancer survivor. “I wanted to do
something to help fight this ter-
rible disease that affects so many
people. It’s especially sad to see
young kids stricken with cancer,
but with events like these we can
give them hope, as we work to-
gether to find a cure.”
The event will coincide with
National Fishing Week across
America and June 7th is also Free
Fishing Day in Tennessee.
Carroll Lake is located one
mile east of McKenzie, Tennessee
and five miles west of Hunting-
don, on U.S. Highway 22. For
additional information, log on to
www.stevemccadams.com or call
731-642-0360.
To support the event, or per-
haps honor someone special, send
your tax deductible donation to:
Steve McCadams “Casting For A
Cure” Kids Fishing Rodeo, 655
Anderson Drive, Paris, TN 38242.
Steve McCadams “Casting for a Cure” Kid’s Fishing Rodeo
14th Annual Event Puts Big Smiles on Small Faces
The 15th Annual Steve McCadams “Casting for a Cure” Kid’s Fishing Rodeo returns to
Carroll Lake on Saturday, June 7th for a fun-filled morning, where even catching little
fish brings on big smiles. - Photo provided by Steve McCadams
Every child that participates in this free day of fishing is a winner. The top “fisherkids” with the biggest
and most fish caught in several age categories, will be awarded special prizes, such as plaques and
even bicycles. - Photo provided by Steve McCadams
WHO’S YOUR BABY?
DRAW A LINE CONNECTING THE
BABY ANIMAL TO IT’S NAME!
EAGLET
PUP
CUB
GOSLING
DUCKLING
KIT
OWLET
FAWN
POULT
CALF
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
ANSWERS:
1. - BABY BEAR - CUB, 2. - BABY FOX - KIT, 3. - BABY MOOSE - CALF, 4. - BABY MALLARD DUCK - DUCKLING
5. - BABY EAGLE - EAGLET, 6. - BABY DEER - FAWN, 7. - BABY TURKEY - POULT
8. - BABY GOOSE - GOSLING, 9. BABY COYOTE - PUP, 10. - BABY OWL - OWLET.
GOOD.
www.FirstCNB.com 285.4410
Good never goes out of style. And that’s good
news because at First Citizens National Bank
we’re really good at putting our passion to
action, providing you with a unique and fan-
tastic experience. It’s why we’re consistently
ranked among the top community banks in
the country. Come see for yourself, in person
or online.
0160_FCNB_Brand_8.125x10.25_BusManAd-2_Southern Tradition.indd 1 2/7/14 5:26 PM
SPONSORED
BY

This is Bo Rider of Union City,
Tennessee with his hog taken at
Working Man’s Bow Ranch in
Dangerfield, Texas on 4/19/14.
Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s
Taxidermy
Robert Jackson shot this nice
gobbler in Wayne County,
just south of Collinwood,
Tennessee this year.
Hawkins Wolcott {14 years old} and
son of our good buddy, Stuart Wolcott,
shot this awesome longbeard on April
12th, 2014 In Hickman County,
Tennessee.
Photo submitted by Primm Springs
Wildlife Company
Autry Sartin shot this gobbler in
Lenox, Tennessee on March 22nd,
2014. It sported a 10 inch beard and
had 1.25 inch spurs.
Photo courtesy of Sartin Motors.
Cooper Adams {nine
years-old} is proudly
posing with his first
gobbler ever, which he
shot this year! - Photo
courtesy of Outerlimit
Powersports.
Burton Colvett is shown here with
this nice buck, which was his first
ever and that he shot in Carroll
County, Tennessee. - Photo courtesy
of Lankford Taxidermy
David Hunter of Dyersburg,
Taxidermy
Donna Hunter and her two hogs
taken at taken at Working Man’s
Bow Ranch in Dangerfield, Texas
on 4/18/14. - Photo courtesy of
Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
David Hunter of Dyersburg,
Taxidermy
Quade Gentry shot this gobbler during
the juvenile weekend with his dad on
the Mississippi River. It weighed 18
lbs., had a 7 and 3/4 inch beard and
1/2 inch spurs.
Photo submitted by Levi Gentry.
Robert “Doc” Jackson
caught this nice - 5lb.
smallmouth bass on a
live shiner.

1-800-FUN-HERE (1-800-386-4373) 662-423-0051
www.tishomingofunhere.org info@tishomingo.org
2014 special events at two of america’s best state parks
iuka & tishomingo, mississippi
tishomingo state park
662-438-6914
www.mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/ms-state-
parks/tishomingo.aspx
jan. 1. second annual first day
hike
jan. 11-12. 14th annual ice bowl
disc golf tournament
march 8-9. 17th annual
spring disc golf tournament
april 12. 36th annual long/lee
ole tyme music festival
may 10. second annual native
american customs & traditions
june 1. second annual national
trails day less litter more
beauty hike
oct. 11-12. 17th annual fall
classic disc golf tournament
oct. 16. 28th annual fall fling
for the young at heart
j. p. coleman state park
662-423-6515
www.mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/ms-state-
parks/jp-coleman.aspx
feb. 1. aba fishing tournament
feb. 15. bfl fishing tournament
feb. 22. aba fishing tournament
march 8. aba fishing tournament
march 15. bass weekend fishing tour.
april 5. aba fishing tournament
may 3. bass weekend fishing tournament
may 10. aba fishing tournament
june 14. bass weekend fishing tour.
august 8-9. bass weekend fishing tour.
august 14. dulcimer festival
september 13-14. bfl fishing tournament
Main Office
420 Hwy 51 ByPass W
Dyersburg, Tennessee 38024
Phone: 731-285-3021
Dyer Co. Memorial Gardens
2455 St. John Ave
Dyersburg, Tennessee 38024
Phone: 731-285-3021
Ridgely Chapel
515 Headdon Dr
Ridgely, Tennessee 38080
Phone: 731-264-5845
Tiptonville Chapel
405 Church St
Tiptonville, Tennessee 38079
Phone: 731-253-7252
Locally owned and operated since 1970
www.dyersburgfuneralhome.net
CENTURY EQUIPMENT COMPANY
855 HWY 51 BYPASS N - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-285-2875 Century@ecsis.net
LOCALLY OWNED BY DONNA HILLIARD
MON THRU FRI: 9AM TO 6PM
SAT: 9AM TO 5 PM
IN GREEN VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER
628 HWY 51 BYPASS W
DYERSBURG, TN 731-287-1446
www.mysunflowerhealth.com
GRASS FED BEEF!
LOCAL MILK, EGGS, HONEY!
LARGEST SELECTION OF BULK SPICES
IN WEST TENNESSEE!
BY THE PINCH OR BY THE POUND!
TODD’S CAFE
SERVING DYERSBURG
FOR 37 YEARS!
DINE IN OR CARRY OUT!
Monday - Thursday: 4:30 am to 8:00 pm
Friday - Saturday: Open 24 Hours
Sunday: Open until 2:00 pm
216 E. Court St. - Dyersburg - TN 38024
731-285-9954
NORTH DELTA SOIL SOLUTIONS INC.
The Precision Farming Experts
Services include
Cutting Edge Variable Rate Technologies.
2.5, 5.0 & 10 Acre Grid Sampling Technique
Maintenance Applications To 2 Year Builds
Fertility Needs Based On What The Producer
Wants, What The Plant Needs And Economics.
Variable Rate Seeding
Soil Fertility Background.
Soil Chemistry
Paste Testing
We’ll save you money and increase your yield!
Brennan Booker, Soil Fertility Specialist
731-487-0968
P.O. Box 266 Dyersburg, TN 38025
We’ll save you money & increase your yield!
Jason Hamlin
731-571-5076
MIKE COLEMAN COMPANY
ELECTRICAL
HEATING
AIR CONDITIONING
SHEET METAL
PLUMBING
3594 HWY 51 SOUTH
DYERSBURG, TN - 38024
731-676-2184
A/C QUALITY COMFORT
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
• NEW INSTALLATION
• SERVICE ON ALL BRANDS
• RESIDENTIAL
• COMMERCIAL
• DUCT WORK
• BONDED & INSURED
TRENT HORTON
731-676-6595
FREE
ESTIMATES!

We’re here for
GOOD.
www.FirstCNB.com 285.4410
Good never goes out of style. And that’s good
news because at First Citizens National Bank
we’re really good at putting our passion to
action, providing you with a unique and fan-
tastic experience. It’s why we’re consistently
ranked among the top community banks in
the country. Come see for yourself, in person
or online.

Southern Traditions Outdoors | May-June 2014

Recomendados

Recomendados

Mais conteúdo relacionado

Mais procurados

Mais procurados (20)

Destaque

Destaque (8)

Semelhante a Southern Traditions Outdoors | May-June 2014

Semelhante a Southern Traditions Outdoors | May-June 2014 (13)

Mais de Kalli Collective

Mais de Kalli Collective (14)

Último

Último (20)

Southern Traditions Outdoors | May-June 2014