Nature's nighttime symphony plays this fall in Pennsylvania
For hunters and anglers, crickets and katydids add to the allure of this time of year.
A Natural Perspective by Mark Nale
It's time to end discrimination against bait fishing
Common sense and current scientific studies demonstrate that there is no place for fly-fishing-only or artificials-only regulations.
Bird dog field trials – yet another way to enjoy the outdoors
It was interesting to watch bird dogs, professional trainers and dog owners competing at a recent field trial in Petersburg, Pa.
Always much-anticipated trout opener again delivers
The writer, his daughter and son-in-law enjoy trout, birds, fellowship and the pleasant weather on the opening day of trout season.
Voluntary permits: The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission's 'Nothing for Something Program'
Offering a nice patch, button or even a bumper sticker to those who purchase voluntary permits would help to advertise the sluggish program.
Why and when do whitetail bucks shed their antlers?
A chance antler find causes this blogger to investigate the variables affecting antler drop.
In Pennsylvania, CWD is a statewide problem that needs statewide action
Elected officials' disconnect and a less-than-adequate job of public relations by the Pennsylvania Game Commission spells CWD woes.
Much can be learned during a winter hike in the forest
Exercise is one benefit, but there are so many more.
The evolution of a white-tailed deer stand
Blogger reflects on the history of deer-hunting treestands at one productive location on his hunting property.
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources sets a bad example
The spraying of roadside ditches with herbicide in a state park causes blogger to wonder – what were they thinking?
Best trout fishing of the year? You gotta' be kidding
Pennsylvania's above-average rainfall translates into good September trout fishing.
Jewelweed: a natural remedy for poison ivy, stinging nettles
The ability to recognize "touch-me-not" and use its medicinal powers could help rescue a late summer or early fall fishing or hunting trip.
Who should control trout stream classification and fishing regulations in Pennsylvania?
It will be interesting to see how this management decision plays out and the rationale that the commissioners use to arrive at their decision. The implications are much broader than one 3.8-mile section of Penns Creek.
How paddlers, anglers can coexist on same waterway
Users of a shared stream need to have understanding, consideration and good manners to ensure that everyone has a good day on the water.
Plan a Pennsylvania native brook trout adventure
Interactive map can be your guide to many pleasurable days astream.
Late May a time of transition in the Pennsylvania outdoors
Writer shares reflections about the natural changes that occur this time of year in the state.
Fun on Pennsylvania's trout opener
Even though Pennsylvania regulations allow you to fish year-round on many streams, I still look forward to the opening day of trout season. Although now it should be more appropriately called the opening day of stocked trout season. Pennsylvania has…
Wildlife rehabilitators save one animal at a time in Pennsylvania
Eagle releases highlight rehabilitators' mission.
Just how big are Pennsylvania coyotes?
Contrary to common rumors about 60-pound and even 70-pound coyotes, in Pennsylvania, coyotes rarely weigh over 50 pounds.
Great Backyard Bird Count a fun, worthy mid-winter activity
Watching birds for as little as 15 minutes could add to the scientific base of knowledge.
Pennsylvania Game Commission's officer name-change is a step in the wrong direction
Field officers with a diverse set of duties need a better name than the antiquated and single-focused term "game warden.”
Rising to the challenge posed by anti-hunting comments and questions
Be prepared to counter anti-hunting comments on social media. The future of hunting depends on it.
In Pennsylvania, changes at elk-check station disappointing
From a public relations perspective, the commission clearly lost points with its “customers” — the hunters and guides.
Pennsylvania's other migrating butterfly — the painted lady
Migrating painted lady butterflies are at their highest numbers in many years.
About This Blog
Mark Nale grew up in rural Bedford County, where he caught his first trout at age 6 and started accompanying his father rabbit hunting by age 10. His interest in outdoor sports and nature influenced his decision to earn BS and M.Ed degrees in biology education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. A member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association, Mark’s articles and photographs have appeared in local, state, and national publications. Married with three grown children, Mark now hunts, fishes, and writes from his home in the wilds of Centre County.
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