Have we lost the outdoors...

Now, half a century later, the number of "Hook and Bullet" magazines is waning, giving way to slick specialty publications. These present one of two views. One touts expensive methods for taming the outdoors with ATVs and 150hp bass boats; the other markets "hiking boots" sporting a sole that has "minimal environmental impact", but which would last only a few days on rough ground.

The modern sportsman goes woodsy in a very curious way -- timidly, testing the water with one toe, he keeps to the crowded trails and campgrounds, strives to never deviate from the path, carries a GPS unit at all times, and assumes that because he carries thirty pounds of lightweight gear (and his cellphone), he is prepared for anything. These are the people that Search and Rescue risk their lives for, clawing their way through dark woods and deep snow to bring out hikers who did not have the experience or common sense to adequately prepare for their outing, confident that help was only a cellphone call away.

Was the preceding tirade merely the catharsis of an aging curmudgeon? Yes... and No. It was presented as a prologue to a wish, a wish I have for all who might need a connection with the outdoor life. I sincerely hope that you may try something a little off-the-path. Take out a topo map with your son, daughter, or other fishing buddy, spread it out on the table and then look for the most remote stream or lake. Buy a compass, learn to use it. Get a billy can or a kettle (small), some oatmeal (large flake rolled oats), some tea, some lard, a few knives, decent clothing (wool still works well), a poncho you can use for shelter, rope (parachute cord), plenty of matches and some tinder, and go find that stream. Take reasonable precautions, such as leaving notice with someone where you are going and when you expect to return, but leave the GPS, I-Pod, and cellphone home. Bushwhack it, explore, find your Ultima Thule -- and if it has fish, cut out a square of turf, put it aside, make a fire in the hole, get your billy boiling, and then broil that trout on a stick as you sip your tea. All will be well.

© Reed F. Curry 2006