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| Courtesy Syracuse.com |
What they are in store for...
If only I lived closer to Syracuse...
May 25, 2012
Fracking? Enter Jack Donaghy
Yeah...the big guns are being brought out against hydrofracking on Saturday, June 2nd. Look out gas companies, here comes Jack.
What they are in store for...
If only I lived closer to Syracuse...
What they are in store for...
If only I lived closer to Syracuse...
May 24, 2012
The #odbloglove Proposition
No, I'm not talking about the new Odblo Gloves from Glacier Glove...
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| Odblo Gloves??? |
I received blog love back in the day from a fellow blogger, so I only feel it's right to return the favor now, especially since Troutrageous! has gained a somewhat delusional dedicated following.
While blog-on-blog promotion is great, I noticed on Twitter yesterday that the blog love hashtag (or #bloglove) is a very underutilized term within tweets. Do a search, I dare ya - you'll get a few results, but nothing along the lines of #FF, #RT, or even #fishchat. I started using it for a few posts yesterday and the response from the bloggers that originally wrote those posts was great. Yeah, they were overwhelmed by the power of the blog love.
So what I'd like to propose...the next time you're on Twitter and want to re-tweet a blog post from someone...go ahead and add the "outdoor blog love" hashtag (#odbloglove) to the end of the tweet. Unfortunately, the much shorter #ODBL is already taken by foreigners.
For those of you slow on the uptake I'm tossing an od to the front of bloglove to make this unique to our outdoor demographic. Hunting, fishing, camping, it's all good...
See, any lazy bobo can just hit the RT button and send a tweet along; this actually takes a little initiative, and will make finding good blogger-recommended outdoor content even easier.
Or don't...and suck worse than you do already.
May 23, 2012
Wednesday Nibbles - The First One Since February Edition
Hey look what's back...Wednesday Nibbles. Yeah, the sh*t show that just won't go away is back once again, just like scabies on a hippie. So what are we...we?...I mean what am I going to talk about today? Probably nothing worth noting, but I missed writing these things, so here we go anyway...
So what's the deal with Michigan? Has that damn state become the fly fishing epicenter of the universe or something? Seems like every blog I read...and probably a few I don't...are all raving about Michigan fly fishing. Fontinalis Rising, Pile Cast, TFM, Fishingpoet, The Freshwater Fly, just to name a few. Steelhead, trout, carp, bass. It's like nuts or something.
In 2013 I think a trip to Michigan in is order, because like Wisconsin, I've got Mitten Envy. Anybody want to go with? Buckeyes need not apply.
Speaking of Buckeyes, remember that short bus that took you to school back in the day? Yeah, I know you do. Well evidently fire trucks come in the same size. Hey Small Fly Funk...what is this...a size 26?
For those of you that don't know, friend of this blog Owl Jones (okay, we have a weird bromance...we're like a trailer park version of Tom Chandler and Singlebarbed) has started a popper business called ZazzyPop. If you're reading this, you probably already know about this venture, but I thought I'd plug (get it...plug?) two things he's got going on. Why? I guess because it's good karma and these one of a kind bad boys are handcrafted in the U.S.A.
First off, through the end of this month, which is May...and only a few days away...ZazzyPop is running a "Buy 3 Get 1 Free" deal. I mean that's a pretty good offer if you ask me. What's free these days?
Also, a good reason why you should definitely consider taking advantage of the offer is because ZazzyPop is also holding a 2012 "Big Fish" contest where all you have to do is send in a pic of a big fish caught on a ZazzyPop and you can win a free custom fly rod from Misfit Rods as well as a barrel full of ZazzyPops. What? Yeah, I'm not lying. More contest info can be found HERE. You can't win if you don't play, so get some ZazzyPops and get on the water!
Ummm...do you like to dance? These folks evidently do...and no, there is no truth to the rumor that this is behind the scenes footage at last year's Tenkara Summit. Although with enough Sapporo sake bombs, I'm certain Dr. Ishigaki and Daniel-San can make this look tame.
Totally random thought...anyone else excited about the sequel to Anchorman?
Finally, time for some blog love. Yeah...with a three month Nibbles hiatus I'm horny as a two headed rhinoceros...and need to give out all kind of virtual hugs and kisses and other unwanted advances.
First on the list is Fly Hook Chronicles a blog written by "Fish4Life" but also known as "flyfishing84" on Instagram...or Steven Carr. It's a blog with a lot of pictures, a lot of fish, and just interesting to look at from time to time. Check it.
The second bit of blog love is actually just re-establishing the locale of a blog that's been highlighted in this space before. What was once "Average Outdoors" is now post identity crisis and is now going by "The Eastern Fly." This blog is currently in it's tenkara phase, which I can appreciate, but if that's not your thing, don't get lost in that. There's a lot of other content on here that's worth checking out too.
So what's the deal with Michigan? Has that damn state become the fly fishing epicenter of the universe or something? Seems like every blog I read...and probably a few I don't...are all raving about Michigan fly fishing. Fontinalis Rising, Pile Cast, TFM, Fishingpoet, The Freshwater Fly, just to name a few. Steelhead, trout, carp, bass. It's like nuts or something.
In 2013 I think a trip to Michigan in is order, because like Wisconsin, I've got Mitten Envy. Anybody want to go with? Buckeyes need not apply.
Speaking of Buckeyes, remember that short bus that took you to school back in the day? Yeah, I know you do. Well evidently fire trucks come in the same size. Hey Small Fly Funk...what is this...a size 26?
For those of you that don't know, friend of this blog Owl Jones (okay, we have a weird bromance...we're like a trailer park version of Tom Chandler and Singlebarbed) has started a popper business called ZazzyPop. If you're reading this, you probably already know about this venture, but I thought I'd plug (get it...plug?) two things he's got going on. Why? I guess because it's good karma and these one of a kind bad boys are handcrafted in the U.S.A.
First off, through the end of this month, which is May...and only a few days away...ZazzyPop is running a "Buy 3 Get 1 Free" deal. I mean that's a pretty good offer if you ask me. What's free these days?
Also, a good reason why you should definitely consider taking advantage of the offer is because ZazzyPop is also holding a 2012 "Big Fish" contest where all you have to do is send in a pic of a big fish caught on a ZazzyPop and you can win a free custom fly rod from Misfit Rods as well as a barrel full of ZazzyPops. What? Yeah, I'm not lying. More contest info can be found HERE. You can't win if you don't play, so get some ZazzyPops and get on the water!
Ummm...do you like to dance? These folks evidently do...and no, there is no truth to the rumor that this is behind the scenes footage at last year's Tenkara Summit. Although with enough Sapporo sake bombs, I'm certain Dr. Ishigaki and Daniel-San can make this look tame.
Totally random thought...anyone else excited about the sequel to Anchorman?
Finally, time for some blog love. Yeah...with a three month Nibbles hiatus I'm horny as a two headed rhinoceros...and need to give out all kind of virtual hugs and kisses and other unwanted advances.
First on the list is Fly Hook Chronicles a blog written by "Fish4Life" but also known as "flyfishing84" on Instagram...or Steven Carr. It's a blog with a lot of pictures, a lot of fish, and just interesting to look at from time to time. Check it.
 |
| Fly Hook Chronicles Ink |
The second bit of blog love is actually just re-establishing the locale of a blog that's been highlighted in this space before. What was once "Average Outdoors" is now post identity crisis and is now going by "The Eastern Fly." This blog is currently in it's tenkara phase, which I can appreciate, but if that's not your thing, don't get lost in that. There's a lot of other content on here that's worth checking out too.
May 22, 2012
Gear Review - Revo Bearing Polarized Sunglasses
A while ago...like almost 3 months ago...a gentleman representing Revo offered me a pair of sunglasses to review. Why? Because I've got a bit of a past in doing such eyewear reviews such as THIS, THIS, and THIS...and even THIS. However, a mix of cloudy weather and poor circumstances have largely kept these off my noggin, unable to provide the desired review...so I'm sure he just thought I took the goodies and ran.
Fortunately, these sunglasses recently hitched a ride to the Smokies to participate in the Owl Jones/Troutrageous EPIC fishing trip and got a bit of a workout, especially on Days 2 and 3. So being a man of my word, here's that review Mr. Revo Dude, albeit a bit overdue.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The first thing I noticed when I opened the box is that these sunglasses are pretty solidly put together. The frames and lenses are pretty much all fancy plastic, but it isn't cheap plastic in any way. (I'm certain to be corrected by the manufacturer that the frames are nylon and the lenses polycarbonate...whatever...like I said...plastic). As a matter of fact, the frames are actually "eco-friendly" according to the Revo website, so you can feel good about wearing them as you scarf down your tofu and granola parfait:
ON THE WATER
I have to admit, these lenses are pretty damn good...and that's really the most important thing, right? They might be the best of the batch from the sunglasses I've reviewed to date. The technical mumbo jumbo to describe these polycarbonate "Serilium" lenses makes forfantastic propaganda a good read...also lifted from the Revo website:
ANYTHING TO BITCH ABOUT?
You know, not really. The glasses are light, the lenses work good, the frames are largish so they block out more than their share of light. I alsointentionally threw dropped them on rocks a few times and they didn't break. What else do you need? Oh, I guess they won't get you a beer if you're thirsty, but that's what trained squirrels are for. Duh.
WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER GOODIES?
Actually, other than the sunglasses, there weren't any. With all of the other sunglasses I've reviewed, they usually came in retail packaging with either a hard or soft sided case, a lens cloth, and some sort of leash-type thing to keep them around your neck when not on your eyes. I was kinda surprised, as I'm not sure if it was just because I received a review sample or something, but my sunglasses came caseless, only in a plain white drawstring pouch, that I suppose doubles as a cleaning cloth. Not a big deal...but I obviously can't review or comment on those components (should they exist when purchased at retail).
TO CONCLUDE...
If you want a pair of sunglasses, you should at least consider these, especially if you can't find the pair that Macho Man used to wear. I won't tell you they are a "must have" simply because they're pricey ($189 MSRP) and I know not everyone wants to drop almost 2 bills on sunglasses. Heck, I've reviewed 4 different pair of polarized sunglasses all at different price points and I wouldn't say any were "bad."
What I will say is that unless you're an total doof and lose your Revos in the stream and let them float away, these Bearings are well built and perform well, so you should definitely get a solid return on your investment over time. Sleep well knowing you won't be wasting your hundred and eighty nine bucks...even if buying 47 bags of Cool Ranch Doritos could be interpreted by some as a better $189 purchase...but when is that not the case?
DISCLAIMER:
The Revo Bearing sunglasses tested in this product review were provided to me at no cost, but hold a retail value of $189 per the manufacturer's website. I currently hold no association with Revo whatsoever, and probably would not until they get one of their squirrel henchmen to bring me a cold PBR and a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos. As with all independent gear reviews at Troutrageous!, I try my best to keep my reviews honest and unbiased. If something is good, it deserves applause; if it sucks, I'll let you know that too. It ain't in my interest to steer you wrong, so why waste the time in doing so?
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| Revo Bearing Sunglasses - Black Ink/Graphite |
Fortunately, these sunglasses recently hitched a ride to the Smokies to participate in the Owl Jones/Troutrageous EPIC fishing trip and got a bit of a workout, especially on Days 2 and 3. So being a man of my word, here's that review Mr. Revo Dude, albeit a bit overdue.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The first thing I noticed when I opened the box is that these sunglasses are pretty solidly put together. The frames and lenses are pretty much all fancy plastic, but it isn't cheap plastic in any way. (I'm certain to be corrected by the manufacturer that the frames are nylon and the lenses polycarbonate...whatever...like I said...plastic). As a matter of fact, the frames are actually "eco-friendly" according to the Revo website, so you can feel good about wearing them as you scarf down your tofu and granola parfait:
Eco-Use is a nylon frame material made in part from the seed of the castor bean plant. Not only is this material sustainable and more environmentally friendly, it is also exceptionally light and flexible. It’s the perfect complement to the superior optical performance of our Revo High Contrast Polarized lenses.Other than that, the spring loaded hinges provide light tension and smoothly move how they are supposed to, there are some softish rubber nose pads to keep the glasses in place high on your nose, and they feel nice and light on your head. Good deal...I'm diggin' them so far...
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| They even make a mossy rock look dapper |
ON THE WATER
I have to admit, these lenses are pretty damn good...and that's really the most important thing, right? They might be the best of the batch from the sunglasses I've reviewed to date. The technical mumbo jumbo to describe these polycarbonate "Serilium" lenses makes for
High Contrast Polarization™: Polarization like you’ve never experienced before.What does that mean? Well put on the sunglasses and it's magical...like a unicorn barfing a box of Lucky Charms...freakin' rainbows and and four leaf clovers everywhere. Well, not really, but they do cut glare and even help you track extremely tiny micro-fish like this one as they rise to your dry fly from over 25 feet away. I know the day I spot my first Sasquatch, I'll be wearing these Revos.
Revo High Contrast Polarized lenses provide visual acuity on surfaces like open water and snow where sunlight can be harsh and reflection can distort vision. These lenses selectively filter the color bands that we are most sensitive to allowing the natural spectrum of color to come through vividly and clearly. The result is sharp color contrast and crystal clear vision. See the world that you’ve been missing.
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| Look at the handsome sunglass-wearing ass holding the tiny fish |
ANYTHING TO BITCH ABOUT?
You know, not really. The glasses are light, the lenses work good, the frames are largish so they block out more than their share of light. I also
 |
| Just make sure not to teach them to drink the beer. |
WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER GOODIES?
Actually, other than the sunglasses, there weren't any. With all of the other sunglasses I've reviewed, they usually came in retail packaging with either a hard or soft sided case, a lens cloth, and some sort of leash-type thing to keep them around your neck when not on your eyes. I was kinda surprised, as I'm not sure if it was just because I received a review sample or something, but my sunglasses came caseless, only in a plain white drawstring pouch, that I suppose doubles as a cleaning cloth. Not a big deal...but I obviously can't review or comment on those components (should they exist when purchased at retail).
TO CONCLUDE...
If you want a pair of sunglasses, you should at least consider these, especially if you can't find the pair that Macho Man used to wear. I won't tell you they are a "must have" simply because they're pricey ($189 MSRP) and I know not everyone wants to drop almost 2 bills on sunglasses. Heck, I've reviewed 4 different pair of polarized sunglasses all at different price points and I wouldn't say any were "bad."
What I will say is that unless you're an total doof and lose your Revos in the stream and let them float away, these Bearings are well built and perform well, so you should definitely get a solid return on your investment over time. Sleep well knowing you won't be wasting your hundred and eighty nine bucks...even if buying 47 bags of Cool Ranch Doritos could be interpreted by some as a better $189 purchase...but when is that not the case?
DISCLAIMER:
The Revo Bearing sunglasses tested in this product review were provided to me at no cost, but hold a retail value of $189 per the manufacturer's website. I currently hold no association with Revo whatsoever, and probably would not until they get one of their squirrel henchmen to bring me a cold PBR and a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos. As with all independent gear reviews at Troutrageous!, I try my best to keep my reviews honest and unbiased. If something is good, it deserves applause; if it sucks, I'll let you know that too. It ain't in my interest to steer you wrong, so why waste the time in doing so?
May 21, 2012
Back Behind The Wheel
It's been a few days since the last post around here...and Russell Westbrook's shirt has received far too much play. Unfortunately, last week's slowdown in blog posting was not due to an extended fishing weekend, but rather a weekend of work (with admittedly a little play) down in Charlotte, North Carolina.
This is just a post to get back in the groove a bit and set the table for a full week's worth of fishing-ish posts. So what's in store for Troutrageous! readers leading into Memorial Day weekend? How about a few overdue product reviews, perhaps some bad Photoshop, and yes, the return of Wednesday Nibbles. Sound good? Well, you know I don't really care what you think anyway.
Oh, and for those of you that don't do Instagram or Twitter and haven't been following along there, here are a few pictures of last weekend. No rainbow trout, but lots of brightly colored cars.
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| Ric Flair appearance at Walmart...and I was a few days early...crap! |
This is just a post to get back in the groove a bit and set the table for a full week's worth of fishing-ish posts. So what's in store for Troutrageous! readers leading into Memorial Day weekend? How about a few overdue product reviews, perhaps some bad Photoshop, and yes, the return of Wednesday Nibbles. Sound good? Well, you know I don't really care what you think anyway.
Oh, and for those of you that don't do Instagram or Twitter and haven't been following along there, here are a few pictures of last weekend. No rainbow trout, but lots of brightly colored cars.
May 16, 2012
The Look Of A Winner
Being born & raised in the Philadelphia area, the 76ers are my favorite basketball team. As such, I'm rooting for them pretty avidly in this year's NBA Playoffs...but if/when they get bounced, my interests will immediately turn toward Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder, for no other reason than shirts like this in post game press conferences...
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| Zazzy Pop? |
Want one for your summer BBQ? Only $115 (ouch!) from the home of the alligator polo, Lacoste. Or then again, try on an equally awesome shirt for size at a slightly lower price...
May 15, 2012
Oh, The Agony!
Yeah, time to fill out some paperwork thanks to an end of day in-stream stumble down in North Carolina. Will this be considered abuse of warranty due to my own clumsiness? Guess I'll find out. At least I'm not lying by saying it just snapped hauling in a lunker mid-fight.
Say what you will about tenkara, but a least getting a replacement section only costs about $7 and can be acquired without sending in your whole rod + $$$ + a TPS report.
Appears the CGR will be inserted into the rotation for the time being...
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