Fly fishing in the colder months

Should people set aside their waders and fishing equipment when the colder months set in?  Well, they should if they’re completely spent and done with fishing for the season.  However, if people still want to fish, there’s one really good reason to go on doing so – it can be done.  

Fly fishing can be done successfully in the winter.  However, it needs a bit of an adjustment to bait and reel in the fish.

For instance, people need to know that the cold weather makes fishes more sluggish than usual.  Fishes will try to conserve energy by moving slowly.  Anglers should use heavier flies to reach fishes in deeper waters, where they usually stay during winter.  A high-stick method is also recommended since it lowers drag from the line and increases dead drift.

The timing is also a bit different.  The rest of the year, fishing in the morning is ideal.  However, om the winter, fishes move around more in the afternoon when the sun is out to get more of the heat. 

Finally, streams during the winter time are lower and clearer than the rest of the year.  This means that fishes see the tippet more.  Because of this, anglers should use smaller and lighter tippets.  Sizes 6X or 7X are perfect. 

Dr. Tom Maibenco is a family physician, clinical director, and educator who plays a dynamic role in the community. In his spare time, he enjoys coin collecting, fishing, and exploring the outdoors. For related reads, visit this page.

What you need to know when buying rare coins online

Coin collection is a worthwhile hobby if you have the resources and the time. A coin collector usually buys coins from other collectors, from antique shops, auctions, museums, and other public events. The internet is also a real purchasing platform. However, this is one of the riskier places to buy, especially if you’re in the market for rare coins. Here are some considerations when buying rare coins online. 

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Buying coins online requires utmost care. There is no guaranteed return policy for every seller out there. If you ever get duped into buying a fake, that mistake is on you. So before making any purchase, make sure to check the profile of the seller if you’re buying from third party stores like Ebay or Amazon. 

It’s a good rule of thumb to snub every seller that comes from China or Hong Kong. Even if the seller isn’t from those places, if he or she has warehouses there, avoid transactions. Coins from China are usually counterfeits. 

If you’re buying through online auctions, careful read the item description before making a bid. This should include why the person is selling it, if it includes shipping charges, return policies if any, and payment options. 

Lastly, look for positive feedback from other sellers. Those who try to hide feedback may have a history of shady deals so avoid transacting with these profiles. 

Image source: coinweek.com

Dr. Tom Maibenco is a physician with more than 10,000 hours in family medicine and emergency care experience. He also takes an active role in his community, supporting programs and initiatives geared toward helping the police force and the veterans. For similar reads, visit this blog.

Here Are Some Don’Ts Of Fishing

We’ve heard of what makes a successful first fishing trip or what should be in a beginner’s fishing gear and tackle. But here are some mistakes to avoid in this hobby—take note and you might encounter them one of these days!

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Don’t put off fishing whenever possible Times moves fast and one of the few pieces of sound advice one can get is this: go fishing whenever you can. Don’t think there will be time next week or next summer; just plan and go! It can be done even at the nearest park.

Don’t be pressured to do it in the morning The best time to go is actually early evening, as fish love evenings, particularly after a hot summer day. During the day, one is also prone to wasting hours watching one’s static rod tip, pulling the line back and forth and making sure they’re still working properly. Very early mornings, though, are also a good time to fish.

Don’t miss the point – it’s not just about fishing The hobby goes beyond catching fish. It’s also about appreciating nature’s boundless gifts, sitting in a place to gather one’s self and relax, and to have the satisfaction of spending some quiet time doing what one loves.

Don’t forget crucial fishing gear Always remember to pack that net, as it’s never out of the ordinary to chance upon an extraordinary fish. Do a spot-check of what’s inside the gear. Never forget sun protection through sunscreen or a reliable hat and proper clothing.

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Don’t have it all to yourself Share the love of fishing to others, such as a friend, son or daughter, or a fellow parent or colleague. Grab the golden opportunity to teach it to others if you can.

Dr. Tom Maibenco is a family physician and an advocate of many great causes. When he is not busy with his professional and community work, he enjoys the outdoors, coin collecting, and fishing. Read more tips about his hobbies on this blog.

Fish Gear And Tackle To Get Started With

Summer has arrived, and it’s another fishing season well underway. This pastime does a lot for one’s physical and mental well-being – a great way to unwind after a rough week, or a bout of boredom or lack of motivation. But does your fishing toolbox – your tackle box – contain all the essentials? Here are basic fish gear and tackle to have in that box. 

Image source: Pixabay.com  

Rod and reel: Beginners are recommended to get spin casting reels as they’re easier to cast and can handle fish up to 20 pounds. Longer rods, on the other hand, make for longer casts and better play with fish. 

Fishing line: Opt for durable types such as monofilament. Bigger fish like catfish and walleye are best caught with 10 to 12-pound test or the measure of a line’s strength. Carry an extra line in your tackle box since it’s almost guaranteed that your fishing line will eventually break or get tangled up while you’re on a fishing trip. 

Hooks: Smaller hooks are easier to work with when using live bait, as they more easily get in a fish’s mouth than bigger ones. Circle hooks are also preferable if you’re a beginner. Stock your box with a range of hooks to be ready with a variety of fish. 

Assortment of fishing necessities: Don’t forget to stock up on sinkers, needle-nose pliers, and scissors or clippers to cut line. Baits, bobbers, and scales or fishing rulers are also important. Bring your fishing license, too, although teens and younger ones don’t need one in many states. Wear some sunscreen to avoid burning. 

Image source: Pixabay.com

Dr. Tom Maibenco is a physician who has had more than 10,000 hours in family medicine and emergency care experience. He enjoys a diverse range of hobbies such as coin collecting, exploring the outdoors, and fishing. More on Dr. Maibenco’s work and interests on this page.

What the Purple Heart means and its connection to PTSD

The Purple Heart is bestowed upon U.S. military men and women who served and showed unparalleled loyalty to the country in war. It was the very first military decoration and was initially awarded to three men who had important roles during the American Revolutionary War. Much more recently, the U.S. government gives the Purple Heart to soldiers who have either been wounded or killed while serving the country. 

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Today, the Purple Heart could come to symbolize the pain and suffering soldiers endure during wartime. Many of these soldiers return from war with physical and mental scars. Many develop post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. The Purple Heart signifies the appreciation of the country for their effort and sacrifice. 

However, there is a debate on whether soldiers who’ve returned with PTSD should be awarded the Purple Heart. The argument is that the award itself may be a trigger for all the pain, anger, despair, worry, and all the other negative emotions brought about by war. And this trigger may later lead to worse actions such as violent outbursts toward people in the immediate vicinity or even self-harm.

Trigger or not, the intention behind the creation and existence of the Purple Heart is noble, to say the least. And if it does symbolize pain and suffering for veterans with PTSD, a citation would be enough.

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Dr. Tom Maibenco is a family physician, an active community member, and a supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project. He is also an animal lover and advocate. For similar reads, visit this blog.

The cost: Two awful effects of armed conflict on soldiers

Survivors of wars, skirmishes, and other types of armed conflict never come out the other side the same. They are usually scarred both physically and mentally. This is the case for so many of the people who’ve served the country and its armed forces, as well as the police who’ve fought to protect and serve in the most violent places. 

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Wars and other armed conflicts usually dispense two types of disorders on survivors. Let’s take a look at them. 

PTSD 

Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD is a condition that manifests itself a few months after a traumatic event. There are levels to PTSD with the more severe cases causing the patient to be a serious threat to themselves as well as those around them. There have been several accounts of soldiers becoming extremely violent because of PTSD. Like depression, this order is not a choice and cannot be overcome by will alone. Professional help should be sought after once a person is suspected of having PTSD. 

Shell shock 

Armed conflict is full of loud noises, and this is the basis of shell shock. When people with shell shock go back to their daily routine in peace, loud noises are often enough to trigger an episode. People with the condition often shake uncontrollably and panic whenever loud noises surprise them. 

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Family physician Dr. Tom Maibenco is a philanthropist who helps the men and women who have served the country and are suffering from PTSD. More on Dr. Maibenco’s practice here.

How To Support Local Law Enforcement

There is an abundance of police officers around the country today who are dedicated to serving and protecting their communities. It is only fitting to show support for their noble endeavors and to appreciate the work that they do. Here are some little ways to do this on one’s own. 

Image source: The Odyssey 

Wear blue: Put a blue stripe – or strip of medium blue or royal blue colored or painted tape – on one’s windshield or rear bumper of the vehicle. Blue can also be painted directly there, measuring about half an inch wide and around 6 inches long. There’s also a campaign called Tuesday Blue’s Day where one can show support by wearing blue. 

Communicate with officers: It means a lot to express appreciation for the work they do, for certain exemplary acts, or for their use of the motto Pride, Integrity, and Guts. This helps overcome the derisive acronym “pig” that has often been unfortunately linked to the police force. 

Spread the word: If you have a positive story or experience with law enforcement, take a few minutes of your time to sharing it with loved ones and friends, or to write about it on social media. Don’t be afraid if it’s a story worth telling! 

Be polite and respectful: Respond politely when pulled over, keeping your hands on the car steering wheel until asked to get your license. Move slowly when you get your identification. Be agreeable and apologize when necessary. Be calm in rather tense situations. 

Consider donating: Donate to a police foundation or a local charity aimed at assisting law enforcement. This will also make a positive impact on preventing and reducing crime in communities. 

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Dr. Tom Maibenco is a family physician who has been an avid supporter of the police, donating through the Fraternal Order of Police Program as an associate member of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police. More articles like this here.

The Surprising Health Benefits Of Fishing

One may have started fishing after being influenced by a family member or living in an area that supports such lifestyle. No matter one’s reasons for casting the line and waiting for a nibble, fishing offers serious benefits to one’s health and wellness. Here are some of them. 

Image source: Pixabay.com 

Meditation 

 Fishing is a form of meditation for it allows for a little mind clearing as one focuses on a fixed object (the potential catch) in a calming environment. Meditation offers a number of positive effects, from improving one’s immune system to slowing heart rate by enhancing one’s self-confidence. 

Light exercise 

One can burn calories while fishing, and it’s a fun way to exercise and sustain one’s interest. Also, it doesn’t require coordinating with anyone else – one can fish on their own and spend hours outdoors doing it. 

Stress reduction and management 

In surveys, participants reported that their main motivation isn’t just about their potential catch, but also escaping thick crowds. Fishing can help one reduce and manage stress from daily life. In fact, there are now even charities supporting the benefits of fishing in treating post-traumatic stress disorder. 

Vitamin D 

It may not be sunny outside at all times, but with enough outdoor time and sun exposure, one can up their vitamin D reserves. This nutrient helps regulate the calcium and phosphate in the body, keeps bones and teeth health, and has even been explored in the fight against depression. 

Image source: Pixabay.com

Dr. Tom Maibenco is a family physician who is an advocate of many great causes. When he is not busy with his professional and community work, he enjoys the outdoors and loves to go fishing. For similar reads, visit this site.

The Best Fishing Spots In Illinois

Illinois is at once a fishing hotspot, given the presence of the Great Lakes in the state, as well as ideal inland waters for freshwater fishing. Here are some of the best places in Illinois that should give you that angling high.

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Banner Marsh

Located in the 600-acre Johnson Lake in Peoria County, Banner Marsh is teeming with largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye, among other prized game fish. Anglers can fish both from a boat or at shore. Head to the middle of the Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area to begin your fishing adventure.

Busse Lake

Busse Lake is just 45 minutes from Chicago, located in Cook County. While it’s not a huge lake, with but a little over 20 miles of shoreline, it offers a wide range of catch, from northern pikes and walleyes to largemouth bass, carps, and muskies. This is a good place for those who want to fish but keep close to the city. Fun detours pre- or post-fishing are the Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium.

Kankakee River

Kankakee is actually part of the larger Illinois river, and is one of the best places for freshwater fishing in the state. It offers a wide array of fish, from smallmouth bass and channel catfish to bluegill and the Northern pike. Canoeing is the perfect complement to your fishing. For the kids, there’s the Exploration Station Children’s Museum and the Kankakee Railroad Museum.

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Lake Michigan

Of course, no fishing endeavor in Illinois will be complete without visiting the famed Lake Michigan. Right next to Chicago, it is a great spot to take the family and have them explore the Sears Tower while you go about your angling trip. This is a great lake for fishing salmon, steelhead, and rainbow trout.

Dr. Tom Maibenco is a family physician by profession. During his spare time, he engages in charitable work and loves fishing and the great outdoors. Find more related articles here.

Top Outdoor Destinations Close To Chicago

Spring in Chicago is a great time to visit the great outdoors. Whether you’re a local resident or just there to check out the city surrounds, the places listed below offer a great way to relax and enjoy an outdoor adventure without venturing too far from the big city.

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Dream A Horse, Kettle Moraine

Horseback riding is a scenic and relaxing way to spend your weekend. You can opt for a one-hour or a three-hour adventure through Kettle Moraine and be surrounded by various terrains and sloping passages. Completing your Dream A Horse cowboy adventure is a stop at the local saloon called Eagle.

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours, Lake Geneva

This Lake Geneva tour includes nine miles of hiking and biking through forests and The Hawk’s Nest High Ropes Course. There’s even a zip lining eco-adventure that teaches you about the flora, fauna, and local history as you glide across zip lines and pass sky bridges and spiral staircases.

Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary & Arboretum, Kenosha

This nature reserve offers 40 acres of diverse, stunning landscapes. You can follow the two-mile hiking trail, as well as visit its 12-acre arboretum, a variety of gardens, and the sanctuary’s three historic buildings.

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Lapham Peak State Park, Delafield

Also located in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this park offers 17 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. When in Lapham, don’t forget to visit the 45-foot observation tower nestled at the highest point in Waukesha County.

Family physician Dr. Tom Maibenco is an advocate of many great causes, including helping his community via the Wounded Warrior Project. He enjoys the outdoors when not busy with work. For more on his work and advocacies, go to this website.