The gear we use for fishing, hunting, shooting, hiking, camping and more, needs a review — the list of outdoor fun stuff we do is long for many folks. Now is the best time for this fun chore. It’s also the “best time” to meet several people who can make a difference in your outdoor life for the year ahead. Your local gunsmith and your local archery shop are at the top of the list. The reason is simple, they’re not busy right now. They have time to talk and to help you become a better sportsman or sportswoman.

Most archers do not realize when we need a new cable or bowstring or when our bow cams must be re-sync’d. The archery shop pro can tell you a minute if you need anything, and they are eager for your business right now. Last season, I was preparing for the early archery big game season in October when I realized that I was down to three arrows in my supply. I usually only carry three in the quiver, but I shoot 12 arrows when practicing. They are all numbered so that the straightest shooting arrows can be used for actual hunting. While purchasing arrows, the end of the box identifies the straightness of the arrows; this number is usually 0.003 to 0.006 inches, but more expensive arrows are 0.001 inches. The lower the number, the straighter the arrow flies. The point of this mention is that they were out of the arrows I needed when I went to the archery shop.

With my long, lanky arms, I need extra-stiff 30-inch arrows. I waited too long to practice and prepare for the season that was less than two weeks away. Don’t do that. I know better, but I did it anyway. Laziness is catchy.

They ordered the new Gold Tip (brand name) arrows express, which cost me, but I had what was needed to go hunting and be prepared. So, right now is the time to get set for the next big game hunting season. Right now, is when the pro shops that can help us have time to talk and check our hunting gear so we can be ready to start shooting practice.

Think warm when February allows avid anglers to take time to review, repair, lubricate and maintain fishing rods, reels, lines and lures to prepare for the fishing season just ahead. Photo courtesy of Forrest Fisher

The same holds true for your rifle, shotgun, handgun, black powder rifle, walleye trolling rods and reels. Check the fishing lines and check your favorite lures. Do you need new hooks? Do it now. Clean up your firearms and fishing gear during these February days of blowing snow and bone-chilling cold. Unless you are an ice angler or snow machine aficionado, staying inside during our nasty weather periods is much more comfortable, and doing these things is useful. Clean up the fishing reels and firearms. Lubricate them, check for wear, rust, and tighten screws. Please don’t do what I did — don’t wait until it’s too late. Visit your gunsmith and archery shop and say hello right now. Meet these guys to ask questions and get answers when you might need more help later. They will remember you from your winter season business when they had a chance to meet you. Winter is a good time for recovery that will have a positive influence for the next time you go do what you do.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Feb. 21: 3-Spot Archery, fun shoot, open to public, 7 p.m., West Falls Conservation, 55 Bridge St., West Falls.

Feb. 22: Orvis Fly Tying 101, 10 a.m. to noon, at the store, 4545 Transit Road, Amherst. Register at 716-276-7200.

Feb. 22: Fisherman’s Flea market, WNY Walleye, Knights of Columbus, Hamburg, Chris Kempf, 716-400-9258.

Feb. 23: WNY 3-D Archery, league shoot, open to the public, this week at Glen Coe Conservation Club, 9869 Foote Road, Glenwood; $15, kids 12 and under are free. Info: 716-863-7342. NOTE: Send Calendar info or related outdoor news to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com.