Thomas Burrell

After 25 years as a Conservation Officer and lifetime of hunting and fishing I am now devoting my time to exploring the outdoors and helping others do so through my writings.

Whether you need a blog, printer article, or product reviews let me help you connect you, your customers and the wonders of fin, fur, or feather!

Indiana Gazette Online •

What’s New? Avoid an unpleasant visit by knowing what has changed

One of the keys to a successful season is staying on the right side of the game warden when he pays a visit to your camp. Unfortunately, rules change, and only some hunters successfully learn how those changes impact their time in the field. Let’s look at what has changed since last season to help you avoid an unpleasant surprise when the warden shows.

One of the keys to a successful season is staying on the right side of the game warden when he pays a visit to your camp. Unfortunately, rules c...
Indiana Gazette Online •

What’s New? Avoid an unpleasant visit by knowing what has changed

One of the keys to a successful season is staying on the right side of the game warden when he pays a visit to your camp. Unfortunately, rules change, and only some hunters successfully learn how those changes impact their time in the field. Let’s look at what has changed since last season to help you avoid an unpleasant surprise when the warden shows.

One of the keys to a successful season is staying on the right side of the game warden when he pays a visit to your camp. Unfortunately, rules c...
Indiana Gazette Online •

Worthy Adversary: Cunning turkeys are a challenge to outsmart, especially for beginners

There is good reason for the popularity. Turkeys are cunning, have excellent eyesight and are more challenging to outsmart than most beginners think. In truth, the turkey is often underestimated as an adversary. If you are preparing for your first turkey hunt, you will need all the help you can get to fill your tag. Let us give you some valuable pointers to get you started.

There is good reason for the popularity. Turkeys are cunning, have excellent eyesight and are more challenging to outsmart...
sungazette.com •

Flood warning: Don’t let high water ruin your fishing trip

Flood warning is one of the last things an angler wants to hear before a planned day on the water. Not getting to fish is worse than fishing all day and never catching anything. Any time this happens, I am convinced that missed opportunity would have been the day I caught a PB.

Never high water threatens your fishing. Don’t cancel, change tactics.

Before learning to fish in high water, let’s discuss what you do not want to do. Never risk taking a boat or yourself into flood waters. Navigating...
Police1 •

Tom Burrell

Tom Burrell began his career in maritime enforcement in 1992 when he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, following his service in the USMC Reserves during Desert Storm. He would see service in Key West, (Fla.) Norfolk, Va., and New York City, both afloat and ashore with duties, which ranged from drug and alien interdiction to recreational boating safety. During this time he would serve in a variety of positions including boarding team member, boarding officer, boat crew, coxswain and master helmsm...

How To Fly Fish Lake Wanaka

Although many of these anglers ply their trade in the backwaters, Lake Wanaka also offers excellent opportunities—if you know when, where, and how to fish it.Lake Wanaka is home to three main species of sport fish. Brown trout, rainbow trout, and landlocked Chinook salmon (also known as Quinnat salmon). Each of these species is self-sustaining and, due to an abundance of bait fish in the area, reach world-class sizes.The lake itself is approximately 69.5 square miles (180 square kilometers) and...
timesobserver.com •

Making the most of your PA elk hunt

When I was growing up, Elk was not associated with Pennsylvania. I remember seeing an exhibit at the State Museum and not believing they had ever roamed the Keystone State. Of course, they had, but they were early victims of hungry colonists. However, thanks to the Pa Game Commission’s reintroduction effort, the state enjoys a thriving population and one that can sustain a limited hunting season. Let’s take a minute to discuss making the most of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

GETTING A LICEN...
Gettysburg Connection •

Fishing at Marburg Lake - Gettysburg Connection

Marburg Lake, nestled in the scenic Codorus State Park approximately 30 minutes east of Gettysburg in York County, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. The lake, covering 1,275 acres, is known for its variety of fish species, beautiful surroundings, and ample recreational opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, Marburg Lake offers something for everyone. This article explores the various aspects of fishing at Marburg Lake,...
timesobserver.com •

Fishing while on vaction: exploring new waters

Summer is officially here; for many, that means vacation with the family. Over the years, my family and I have traveled to various vacation destinations, but they have all shared a common bond. No matter where we go, I always have a fishing rod in tow and look for an opportunity to check out the local waters.

I always had a rod close by, and I started while serving in the military. As you can imagine, I had the opportunity to travel to exciting places I would never have visited otherwise. This...
timesobserver.com •

So you think you caught a record fish

By now, many of you have heard about the latest state-record fish, a white perch, caught in the Delaware River that weighed a whopping 2 pounds, 1 ounce. This is a fantastic accomplishment and one that any angler should be proud of, and every time it happens, other anglers start thinking, “What would I do if I caught a state record?” Although the question is more in line with whether they would enjoy local hero status, let me tell you what you need to do to ensure that record fish is accepted as...
timesobserver.com •

Could Sunday hunting become a reality in 2024?

Sunday hunting has been a hot-button topic for as long as most hunters can remember. I bet hunters started arguing about the pros and cons as soon as the first ban occurred over 100 years ago. Despite many attempts to change the law that prohibits widespread Sunday hunting, the efforts have largely fallen short. Could 2024 be the year that all changes?

Since the 19th century, Pennsylvania Game Laws have prohibited Sunday hunting (with exceptions for crows, foxes and coyotes) throughout the stat...
timesobserver.com •

Learning to camp and canoe

There are few things as relaxing as spending your days connecting with nature, and it is extra special when you can do so by canoe.

Drifting quietly down a scenic stream or floating motionless on a mountain lake as a flock of geese glides in. There is nothing in the world like it.

But most people need to limit their canoeing adventures to short-day trips. To truly experience canoeing at its best, combine it with camping. Imagine drifting down the same scenic stream for days and days, spending...
timesobserver.com •

Choosing the correct lure for trout

April is almost upon us, meaning Trout Season is approaching.

With the warmer, longer days we have been experiencing lately, it is hard not to think about fishing. Some time is spent cleaning gear and restocking lures, but selecting the correct lure is more challenging than a non-angler may think. There are hundreds to choose from, and each claims to be the best.

Choosing the correct lure can make or break any fishing trip, and before reviewing a list of my favorites for trout, let’s go over s...
timesobserver.com •

Commission wants to know more about stocking

When you mention “stocking,” most Pennsylvania anglers immediately consider Commission trout stocking. Visions of a white fish truck followed by a caravan of private cars come to mind. But what you may need to learn is plenty of sportsmen’s clubs, nonprofit derby organizers and even private individuals stock thousands of fish each season. The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission wants to know precisely who these people are and what they are doing.

For a long time, Pennsylvania has been in the mi...
timesobserver.com •

Where to fish?

The longer, sunnier days have many anglers itching to go fishing. The problem is that many streams are closed for stocking as the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission prepares for the opening day of trout season. But this doesn’t mean you have to watch reruns of your favorite fishing show, wishing it was you on the water.

It is a common misconception that you cannot fish during the preseason stocking period. Yes, stocked trout streams are closed to fishing of any kind. But there are plenty of ot...
RIFLE BASIX •

The Effects of Bullet Drop on Long-Range Shooting | RIFLE BASIX

What shooter has not dreamed of hitting a far-off, record-breaking shot? For most it will remain a dream. This dream can become reality, but there are some imperative things you need to learn. regarding bullet drop on long-range shooting.
Before discussing long-range shooting, we need to determine what that means. To some shooters, long-range may be anything over a couple hundred yards. A U.S. Marine, who regularly qualified at 500 yards, would have a different interpretation. In other words, it...
RIFLE BASIX •

Benefits of Aftermarket Triggers | RIFLE BASIX

Gun owners love to customize their firearms. Thanks to the almost endless supply of aftermarket parts, the sky is the limit. However, one of the most common upgrades is the trigger. Whether due to fit, performance, or looks, triggers are often one of the first upgrades to a new firearm. But is it worth the investment? What are the benefits of an aftermarket trigger?
One of the biggest advances in firearms was the ability to produce products in mass. Production times were reduced, costs were redu...
RIFLE BASIX •

What is Trigger Discipline? - RIFLE BASIX

Firearm training involves a lot of terminology, and it can be hard to remember which to prioritize. Trigger discipline is one of the terms you must remember and practice every time you pick up a firearm. But what is trigger discipline?
Trigger discipline is a term you will hear repeatedly while practicing in the industry. It does not matter what type of training you take, the firearm involved, or the instructor – every reputable firearms training program will stress the importance of trigger dis...
RIFLE BASIX •

How to Improve Rifle Shooting Accuracy - RIFLE BASIX

Whether you are a hunter, competitive shooter, or plinking cans with your family, the reason you got into shooting is the same – it is fun. But when a shooter experiences an accuracy issue, the fun part of shooting is diminished, and the desire to continue is lost. Let’s look at how to keep shooting fun by showing you how to improve rifle shooting accuracy.
Regardless of why you are shooting a rifle, the key to success is accuracy. But what is accuracy? Is it the ability to hit your target? No,...
Catfish Now •

Catfishing at Santee Cooper

Channel, blue, white and flathead catfish can be caught in Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion in the Santee Cooper lake system.
 
by Thomas J. Burrell
If you’re a catfish angler looking for a new adventure, the Santee Cooper lake system in South Carolina must be at the top of your list. Not only is the area known for its picturesque scenery and family-friendly atmosphere, but it is also one of the best catfish fisheries available.
Let’s look at why the Santee Lake system should be your next destinati...
RIFLE BASIX •

How to Measure Rifle Trigger Pull Weight - RIFLE BASIX

There was a time when the designer and manufacturer determined the trigger pull on a rifle. Most field guns were set with high, almost always over 5-pound, trigger pulls to avoid accidents. Custom guns were usually set much lower, at 4oz ounces to 5 pounds, to allow better accuracy. Any shooter can have a higher or lower trigger-pull thanks to adjustable triggers, depending on their individual shooting style. This only leaves one question “How do you measure the trigger-pull weight?”
Trigger pul...
RIFLE BASIX •

What are the Best Hunting Rifles for Long Range? - RIFLE BASIX

There are three different types of long-range shooting: target, hunting, and tactical. Although some basic requirements and considerations are shared across the board, each has specific requirements.
Target rifles are typically heavier than other types of long-range rifles. The added weight, a longer barrel, and more complex stocks allow for the highest level of precision. They are perfect for hitting sub-MOA x-ring groups off the bench but are generally too unwieldy for field use. Target rifles...
RIFLE BASIX •

The Best Rifle for Deer Hunting - RIFLE BASIX

Are you new to deer hunting? Maybe you’ve been away from the sport for a while and want to get back into it. Either way, the first thing you need to do is select a rifle. But which one is best? Let us help you navigate the seemingly endless options to find the right choice for you.
Deer hunting is an American tradition that may rival baseball as “America’s pastime”. There is no doubt that Americans have been hunting deer since before baseball was even invented. Early settlers relied on venison a...
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timesobserver.com •

Catching the best trophy pictures

Fishing the majestic waters of southwest Florida is about more than catching fish. Yes, that may be what you do during your charter, but what you are really after are the memories.

One of the best ways to capture memories for years to come is by catching your fish twice: once by hook and line, and once with your camera. Here are some tips to help you take pictures worthy of the adventure you are capturing.

1. Let the fish steal the day — I know the crew has been wonderful. The southwest Florid...

How To Fly Fish Lake Wanaka

Although many of these anglers ply their trade in the backwaters, Lake Wanaka also offers excellent opportunities—if you know when, where, and how to fish it.Lake Wanaka is home to three main species of sport fish. Brown trout, rainbow trout, and landlocked Chinook salmon (also known as Quinnat salmon). Each of these species is self-sustaining and, due to an abundance of bait fish in the area, reach world-class sizes.The lake itself is approximately 69.5 square miles (180 square kilometers) and...
timesobserver.com •

Making the most of your PA elk hunt

When I was growing up, Elk was not associated with Pennsylvania. I remember seeing an exhibit at the State Museum and not believing they had ever roamed the Keystone State. Of course, they had, but they were early victims of hungry colonists. However, thanks to the Pa Game Commission’s reintroduction effort, the state enjoys a thriving population and one that can sustain a limited hunting season. Let’s take a minute to discuss making the most of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

GETTING A LICEN...
Gettysburg Connection •

Fishing at Marburg Lake - Gettysburg Connection

Marburg Lake, nestled in the scenic Codorus State Park approximately 30 minutes east of Gettysburg in York County, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. The lake, covering 1,275 acres, is known for its variety of fish species, beautiful surroundings, and ample recreational opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, Marburg Lake offers something for everyone. This article explores the various aspects of fishing at Marburg Lake,...
timesobserver.com •

Fishing while on vaction: exploring new waters

Summer is officially here; for many, that means vacation with the family. Over the years, my family and I have traveled to various vacation destinations, but they have all shared a common bond. No matter where we go, I always have a fishing rod in tow and look for an opportunity to check out the local waters.

I always had a rod close by, and I started while serving in the military. As you can imagine, I had the opportunity to travel to exciting places I would never have visited otherwise. This...
timesobserver.com •

So you think you caught a record fish

By now, many of you have heard about the latest state-record fish, a white perch, caught in the Delaware River that weighed a whopping 2 pounds, 1 ounce. This is a fantastic accomplishment and one that any angler should be proud of, and every time it happens, other anglers start thinking, “What would I do if I caught a state record?” Although the question is more in line with whether they would enjoy local hero status, let me tell you what you need to do to ensure that record fish is accepted as...
timesobserver.com •

Should you buy a boat or a kayak?

No doubt, having the ability to leave the shore behind opens a whole new world of angling opportunities. You are no longer constrained by how far you can cast, whether wading is possible or forced to target only those species calling the shallows their home. But what is the best means of getting off the beach? Should you invest in a traditional boat or opt for a fishing kayak? Let’s look at both and see which option is best for you and your fishing style.

ACCESS TO NEW LOCATIONS

The most signi...
timesobserver.com •

Could Sunday hunting become a reality in 2024?

Sunday hunting has been a hot-button topic for as long as most hunters can remember. I bet hunters started arguing about the pros and cons as soon as the first ban occurred over 100 years ago. Despite many attempts to change the law that prohibits widespread Sunday hunting, the efforts have largely fallen short. Could 2024 be the year that all changes?

Since the 19th century, Pennsylvania Game Laws have prohibited Sunday hunting (with exceptions for crows, foxes and coyotes) throughout the stat...
timesobserver.com •

Learning to camp and canoe

There are few things as relaxing as spending your days connecting with nature, and it is extra special when you can do so by canoe.

Drifting quietly down a scenic stream or floating motionless on a mountain lake as a flock of geese glides in. There is nothing in the world like it.

But most people need to limit their canoeing adventures to short-day trips. To truly experience canoeing at its best, combine it with camping. Imagine drifting down the same scenic stream for days and days, spending...
timesobserver.com •

Choosing the correct lure for trout

April is almost upon us, meaning Trout Season is approaching.

With the warmer, longer days we have been experiencing lately, it is hard not to think about fishing. Some time is spent cleaning gear and restocking lures, but selecting the correct lure is more challenging than a non-angler may think. There are hundreds to choose from, and each claims to be the best.

Choosing the correct lure can make or break any fishing trip, and before reviewing a list of my favorites for trout, let’s go over s...
timesobserver.com •

Commission wants to know more about stocking

When you mention “stocking,” most Pennsylvania anglers immediately consider Commission trout stocking. Visions of a white fish truck followed by a caravan of private cars come to mind. But what you may need to learn is plenty of sportsmen’s clubs, nonprofit derby organizers and even private individuals stock thousands of fish each season. The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission wants to know precisely who these people are and what they are doing.

For a long time, Pennsylvania has been in the mi...
timesobserver.com •

Where to fish?

The longer, sunnier days have many anglers itching to go fishing. The problem is that many streams are closed for stocking as the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission prepares for the opening day of trout season. But this doesn’t mean you have to watch reruns of your favorite fishing show, wishing it was you on the water.

It is a common misconception that you cannot fish during the preseason stocking period. Yes, stocked trout streams are closed to fishing of any kind. But there are plenty of ot...
RIFLE BASIX •

The Effects of Bullet Drop on Long-Range Shooting | RIFLE BASIX

What shooter has not dreamed of hitting a far-off, record-breaking shot? For most it will remain a dream. This dream can become reality, but there are some imperative things you need to learn. regarding bullet drop on long-range shooting.
Before discussing long-range shooting, we need to determine what that means. To some shooters, long-range may be anything over a couple hundred yards. A U.S. Marine, who regularly qualified at 500 yards, would have a different interpretation. In other words, it...
RIFLE BASIX •

Benefits of Aftermarket Triggers | RIFLE BASIX

Gun owners love to customize their firearms. Thanks to the almost endless supply of aftermarket parts, the sky is the limit. However, one of the most common upgrades is the trigger. Whether due to fit, performance, or looks, triggers are often one of the first upgrades to a new firearm. But is it worth the investment? What are the benefits of an aftermarket trigger?
One of the biggest advances in firearms was the ability to produce products in mass. Production times were reduced, costs were redu...
RIFLE BASIX •

What is Trigger Discipline? - RIFLE BASIX

Firearm training involves a lot of terminology, and it can be hard to remember which to prioritize. Trigger discipline is one of the terms you must remember and practice every time you pick up a firearm. But what is trigger discipline?
Trigger discipline is a term you will hear repeatedly while practicing in the industry. It does not matter what type of training you take, the firearm involved, or the instructor – every reputable firearms training program will stress the importance of trigger dis...
RIFLE BASIX •

How to Improve Rifle Shooting Accuracy - RIFLE BASIX

Whether you are a hunter, competitive shooter, or plinking cans with your family, the reason you got into shooting is the same – it is fun. But when a shooter experiences an accuracy issue, the fun part of shooting is diminished, and the desire to continue is lost. Let’s look at how to keep shooting fun by showing you how to improve rifle shooting accuracy.
Regardless of why you are shooting a rifle, the key to success is accuracy. But what is accuracy? Is it the ability to hit your target? No,...
Catfish Now •

Catfishing at Santee Cooper

Channel, blue, white and flathead catfish can be caught in Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion in the Santee Cooper lake system.
 
by Thomas J. Burrell
If you’re a catfish angler looking for a new adventure, the Santee Cooper lake system in South Carolina must be at the top of your list. Not only is the area known for its picturesque scenery and family-friendly atmosphere, but it is also one of the best catfish fisheries available.
Let’s look at why the Santee Lake system should be your next destinati...
RIFLE BASIX •

How to Measure Rifle Trigger Pull Weight - RIFLE BASIX

There was a time when the designer and manufacturer determined the trigger pull on a rifle. Most field guns were set with high, almost always over 5-pound, trigger pulls to avoid accidents. Custom guns were usually set much lower, at 4oz ounces to 5 pounds, to allow better accuracy. Any shooter can have a higher or lower trigger-pull thanks to adjustable triggers, depending on their individual shooting style. This only leaves one question “How do you measure the trigger-pull weight?”
Trigger pul...
RIFLE BASIX •

What are the Best Hunting Rifles for Long Range? - RIFLE BASIX

There are three different types of long-range shooting: target, hunting, and tactical. Although some basic requirements and considerations are shared across the board, each has specific requirements.
Target rifles are typically heavier than other types of long-range rifles. The added weight, a longer barrel, and more complex stocks allow for the highest level of precision. They are perfect for hitting sub-MOA x-ring groups off the bench but are generally too unwieldy for field use. Target rifles...
RIFLE BASIX •

The Best Rifle for Deer Hunting - RIFLE BASIX

Are you new to deer hunting? Maybe you’ve been away from the sport for a while and want to get back into it. Either way, the first thing you need to do is select a rifle. But which one is best? Let us help you navigate the seemingly endless options to find the right choice for you.
Deer hunting is an American tradition that may rival baseball as “America’s pastime”. There is no doubt that Americans have been hunting deer since before baseball was even invented. Early settlers relied on venison a...
Police1 •

Wave of the future: The Wave Glider ASV

We’ve all seen the footage of drone strikes. Over the past 10 years, the nightly news has been littered with the grainy proof that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are valuable and effective tools in the war on terror. But how can UAVs be used in a maritime environment? Can the same technology that allow U.S. forces to track the Taliban in the mountains of Afghanistan help secure our nation’s vast shoreline? That is the very question a Congressional Subcommittee asked at a recent hearing titled “...
Police1 •

Tips for starting a maritime police unit

For the past 17 years I’ve had the opportunity to work with a multitude of local, county, or regional police departments with a wide array of reactions when seeing the “boat cops” arrive on scene. Sometimes there is a curiosity or a belief that my job is somehow better than theirs — I guess because I get to spend the day cruising in my boat and enjoying the sun. I sometimes tend to think of it as sweating my tail off while cooking to about medium-well done, but you’ll learn more about that once...