The Best Camping Hammock

For most people, camping evokes images of trekking into the pristine wilderness and drifting off to sleep with an unobstructed view of the night sky. Camping enables you to get away from the stresses of everyday life and enjoy the great outdoors. It can also be your best option during an end times scenario. Although you need the right equipment for a wilderness survival situation or weekend recreational outing, the freedom and pleasure of camping remains an elusive quest for many because of their unmanageable logistics trail. The Neolite Double Camping Hammock is a versatile piece of gear that enables you to lighten your load because it can serve numerous purposes.

The Neolite Double Camping Hammock

The Neolite Double Camping Hammock is a comfortable, easy to hang piece of equipment that is ideal for camping, backpacking or just relaxing in the backyard or at the beach. The compact, ultra lightweight hammock is made from strong, breathable woven parachute nylon fabric using heavy-duty ripple interlocking stitching. Along with the required hanging ropes, the quick-drying hammock comes packed in an integrated drawstring storage bag so that you have one less item to worry about losing. The bag can double as a convenient place to store small personal items like keys and phones or other gear when relaxing in the hammock.

The go-anywhere, do-it-all hammock sets up in minutes. The ingeniously designed nautical-grade ropes incorporate a series of overhand knots that produce small loops. Wrap the cord around a pole or tree and select the loop that provides the desired length. Once the ropes are in place, use the steel carabiners to click the hammock in position to provide a comfortable relaxing spot for two people. When properly waterproofed, the extra fabric can be slung over a single person to create a cocoon that provides a light barrier against bugs and the weather.

When unfolded, the hammock is 10 feet 6 inches long and 6 feet 6 inches wide. When you are ready to take it down, the hammock easily fits back inside the storage bag. After it is rolled up, the hammock is about the size of a football at 7 inches tall and 5 inches in diameter. Although it weighs only 19 ounces, a Neolite Double Camping Hammock can support up to 400 pounds.

Why Use a Hammock Instead of a Tent

When camping or bugging out, the weight of your equipment is a major consideration. You cannot use what you cannot carry. The gear required for shelter and sleeping often take up the most room in a vehicle or backpack. As a compact versatile sleeping solution, a hammock provides some real advantages while enabling you to sleep almost anywhere.

Multi-purpose, Space Saver

The hammock also eliminates the need for bulky sleeping bags, pads and tents along with the accoutrement required to erect the shelter like poles and stakes. This leaves more room for essentials like food, water and first aid supplies. Hammocks are usually stored in a drawstring pouch that can also be used to store a flashlight or a multi-purpose tool. Although it appears large, the hammock is like most modern tents. It is easily folded and repacked.

Better Sleeping

While tents are commonly used for outdoor sleeping, some find lying on the hard ground unappealing. A good option is a camping hammock, as it provides a sturdy elevated place to sleep. Rocking back and forth suspended above the ground in the supportive fabric eliminates the stiff backs and sore hips that often occur after sleeping on the hard ground. You can enjoy sleeping in the fresh air and wake feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The hammock allows you to see the stars, stand up and walk around if you like without the hassle of unzipping tent flaps or crawling out of a sleeping bag or an enclosed shelter. Sleeping above the ground also keeps you above snakes and other animals that typically wander into campsites.

More Flexibility with Camp Sites

In addition to comfort, hammocks mean that you do not have to spend time searching for an ideal level campsite. Rocky, wet or sloping terrain makes pitching a tent and sleeping on the ground a challenging ordeal. You do not have to make special preparations to the site because the hammock is suspended between two trees roughly 10 feet apart above the surface of the ground. A hammock provides the same comfort every night. Because the ground no longer matters, the hammock is also ideal when stopping for a quick rest or water break. When traveling with kids, it gives them a break after a long hike while you set up the rest of the campsite. Hammocks can double as an emergency blanket or litter as well as a way for hauling gear short distances because you can wrap several items in the hammock if necessary.

Durable, Lightweight and Versatile

Hammocks are generally made from lightweight parachute material that is as strong as it is thin. Rip-stop stitching resists tears and helps prevent any holes that do occur from becoming larger. This is an important feature in a survival scenario. The material also dries quickly. Hammocks are available in single and double sizes. A double provides extra fabric to secure an individual inside the hammock. Sit sideways and the hammock can also be used as a camp chair or outdoor swing for those camping with small children.

The additional fabric can also be used to create a shelter. When equipped with bug netting and a tarp to keep out the wind, rain and pests, the hammock may eliminate the need to carry a tent depending upon local weather conditions. The tarp can also be used to create the same privacy that you enjoy with a tent. A Mylar emergency blanket can be added as an effective way to stay warmer in the hammock during colder temperatures. In a tent, you can lose airflow. The air circulation around the breathable material of the hammock is an effective way to cool down when the temperatures start to climb. Depending upon the weather conditions and other environmental factors, you can bring the accessories that you need and leave the rest at home lightening your load. You can also store them in the bottom of your backpack just in case they are required.

Wrapping Up

While the great outdoors provides a wonderful backdrop for fun and recreation, it may also be the best place to be in a survival situation. In both scenarios, the Neolite Double Camping Hammock is a handy versatile piece of equipment that is easy to carry, store and set up. It can be a lightweight alternative to the traditional methods for shelter and sleeping when camping or engaging in wilderness survival. The strong lightweight hammock can support two people or serve as a mini shelter for a single individual for a full night’s sleep. It is a great way to take an extended break. With the addition of a tarp, bug netting and a blanket, it may effectively replace the requirement to carry a tent, which makes tearing down your campsite easier and quicker. The Neolite Double Camping Hammock is ideal for camping, traveling or relaxing in the backyard. The extremely compact hammock can be used indoors as well as outdoors – check it out at Amazon (lowest price we’ve found).

Source: The Best Camping Hammock by Jacob Mueller via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Tactical Flashlight Personal Defense System

This tactical flashlight can be used as a self defense weapon, and can be carried in plain sight.

This video presentation features SurviTac’s Close Quarter Combatives Technical Advisor, Tim Waid of PTKGO.

A proper tactical light such as the ones used in the video (Nitecore MT26, MH2C), serves as a visual impairment tool, impact tool, force multiplier, and a natural extension for hooking, locking and grappling techniques.

Flashlights can be worn out in the open for easy access legally.  They serve many purposes, mainly to illuminate objects.  However, it can be used to blind an attacker and increase the power of your strike.  This can be a stunning combination for anyone attempting to harm or rob you.

In the daylight it can be used as a light weight, sturdy blunt force object.  And at night, it combines as both a striking tool and a blinding tool.  At the very least, it will shine the way to your house or car so you don’t trip.

Carrying a gun or a blade can kill someone and potentially land you in heavy legal troubles even if you were the victim.  Proper use of a tactical flashlight can temporarily immobilize an attacker allowing you to escape and call the proper authorities.

A flashlight, due to its non lethal nature, can appear non-threatening and its use as a weapon can be easily overlooked by an attacker.  This can put the assailant at a disadvantage.

Remember, being prepared is not just about owning the right tools.  It is understanding how to use those tools and how to act or react in different situations and scenarios.

Source: Tactical Flashlight Personal Defense System by Rick Sunderland via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

2 Minute Tarp Shelter Setup

As an avid survivalist, I am always looking for new ways to be better prepared in case of an emergency. I really like this shelter setup. It’s very easy to setup even for a complete beginner and very practical. It’s easy to unpack and setup and even easier to pack it all in and continue moving.

In this video we can see how Dave builds a tarp shelter in a couple of minutes. This type of shelter has been around for 200-300 years. You can set this up in 2-3 minutes with a bit of practice. An excellent choice when you need to get out of the weather ASAP.

I got some tarp from Amazon from here.

 

Source: 2 Minute Tarp Shelter Setup by Randy Smith via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Finding the Best Survival Knife – Our Top Picks in 2015

A good knife — more specifically a good fixed blade knife — is one of your most important survival tools in your arsenal. We’ve talked about survival knives here on Readytribe earlier, in our article on survival knives,. In this article we’ll look closer at a few models that we’ve tried and tested, and can recommend to our readers.

All of the three knives below are great knives, and you won’t be disappointed if you pick up any of them — but we’ve tried to find a knife for every budget.

First: What makes a knife a great survival knife?

In the article above, we talked about why it’s important to select a full-tang knife. A full tang means that the knife is one solid piece of steel: if you took of the grip part, you would still have a fully functional knife. A half-tang knife will also run the full length of the knife, but the grip will be wider than the handle, making the construction weaker. A full-tang knife is also much stronger and more durable than other knives, but they are typically more expensive. In my opinion, it’s money well spent.

If the handle on a full-tang knife breaks, you can wrap it in Paracord (we’ve shown how you can wrap a skeleton knife in paracord here) or a piece of cloth, and it can still be used.

For survival you want a strong, durable knife that’s a bit on the heavy side. Remember that the uses of a survival knife are extremely diverse, ranging from hunting, throwing, cutting, battoning and carving. It’s also handy for opening cans, making shelter, cutting rope, starting a fire … well, anything you can think of (and then some). Don’t think that this makes a multi-tool the ideal survival knife! A multitool such as a Leatherman or a Swiss Army knife is a smart thing to bring, but all though it’s practical,it isn’t a survival knife!

For me, the ideal length of a survival knife is between 9 and 11 inches. It’s big enough to be used for batoning and chopping, but still small enough to do detailed work like carving or dressing game.

Our top picks for the perfect survival knife

ESEE 6P-B

This is one of my personal favorites, and if you search online, you’ll see that many others think the same. The knife is crafted in high quality carbon steel (1095 Steel Blade w/a Rockwell Hardness of 57 RC) and a good solid grip. The knife is also used by armed forces, law enforcement and special forces worldwide. The Micarta handle gives it a comfortable grip in all conditions. I really have nothing bad to say about this one, and now it seems like Amazon is doing a promotion on it. For the price, you won’t get a better survival knife.

Some quick facts:

• Blade Length of 6.5 Inches.
• Total Weight of 12 Ounces.

Find the best price here

SOG SE38-N Force

Full-tang knife with a minimalist design. Made in AUS8 Stainless Steel. The blade is thick and the knife seems very durable. We’ve talked with guys that have had this knife for years, and it’s just as sharp and good as new. I can’t imagine anything breaking this one!

Some quick facts

• 11 1/4″ overall length
• 6″ blade length

Find the best price here

Tom Brown Tracker T-3

Full-tang knife with a sawback design. The handle is comfortable with black linen Micarta. Crafted in black traction coated ATS-34 stainless steel. More expensive than the two other ones, but if you have the budget, you won’t find a better knife for survival!

Some quick facts:

• 10 5/8″ overall length
• 5 1/2″ blade

Find the best price here

Featured image by Beau Lebens, CC

Source: Finding the Best Survival Knife – Our Top Picks in 2015 by Jeffrey Webb via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Hypothermia Treatment: What To Do In An Emergency

Here at Ready Tribe, we like to try and help you be prepared for all sorts of situations. Treating hypothermia can quickly become an emergency situation so it is important that you know what to do if the situation arises. Remember too that not just people going out in cold weather get hypothermia. In the colder months we need to look after our elderly and very young too, especially if they are not active and spending a lot of time in cold rooms, concerned with not being able to pay their heating bills.

Effects of Temperature On The Body

To make sure our bodies function properly, a body temperature of 97 to 99°F (36 to 37°C) must be maintained. To achieve this, we adapt to different external conditions. If it is cold, we retain heat by wearing warm clothes and we can also create heat by eating high-energy foods. Prolonged exposure to extremes of temperature can severely damage the skin and other body tissues.

What Is Hypothermia?

Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 95° F (35°C), for example, in very cold weather or on expeditions. It is often caused by wearing unsuitable clothing in cold weather or by prolonged immersion in cold water. Elderly people can also get hypothermia if they spend lots of time in a poorly heated room in the cold weather.

The old and very young are the most vunerable as elderly people can be less aware of changes in temperature and young babies do not have a fully developed mechanism for temperature regulation. This means both age groups are easily affected and need extra care.

Signs and Symptoms Of Hypothermia

• The casualty may become unconsciousness.
• The skin may become very cold and pale, and they can’t control their body from shivering.
• They may become clumsy and irritable.
• When talking, speech may become slurred.
• The casualty’s breathing may become slow and their pulse weakened.
• They may show other signs of lethargy.

If You Can Get Your Casualty Indoors

Try to:

• Stop loss of body heat.
• Warm up the casualty.
• Obtain medical aid.

To help with this, you will need to have a supply of dry and warm clothes, warm drinks and high-energy food like chocolate.

1. Get Them Changed Out Of Their Wet Clothing

If a casualty has been brought inside with wet clothing, get them changed into warm and dry clothes as soon as possible to help them warm up.  If thy are young and fit then they can take a bath to warm up. Try to make sure that the water should be a warm 104°F (40°C). If the casualty is elderly or is a young baby, get them warm by wrapping blankets around them so they slowly raise their core body temperature.

2. Put Them In Bed And Give Them Warm Drinks

Make sure you put the casualty into bed and give him or her warm drinks, such as soup, or high-energy foods such as chocolate. Cover their head to provide them additional warmth and then make sure you then seek medical advice and CALL A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY.

For A Casualty Outdoors

Try to:

• Stop the casualties body temperature falling further.
• Make the casualty warmer.
• Get medical assistance.

To help do this, you will need a survival bag, sleeping bag or blanket, warm, dry clothes and warm drinks and high energy food.

1. Make Them Stop And Rest Immediately

Stop what you are doing immediately and rest. You should not try to continue on in the hope that you can find shelter for the casualty. Insulate the casualty with extra clothing or a survival bag to raise their body temperature. If the casualty has wet clothing and you have dry clothing available, make sure they get changed ASAP. If you have other people in your group, send them ahead to get help immediately.

2. Shelter And Insulate The Casualty

Make a shelter for the casualty to protect them from the elements. Ensure they are wrapped up in a survival bag, blanket or a sleeping bag and get them to wear as much additional clothing as possible.

DO NOT use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket to attempt to warm the casualty.

DO NOT give the casualty any alcoholic drinks as this will lower their core temperature further.

3. Give The Casualty A Warm Drink.

Try to give the casualty a warm drink such as milk, tea, cocoa or soup, and some high-energy foods such as chocolate to raise their internal body temperature. Try to reassure and comfort them so that they remain calm and positive and do not begin to panic.

If the casualty loses consciousness, check their breathing and place them in the recovery position or on their side. If necessary, be ready to resuscitate them.

4. Check For Signs Of Frostbite.

Frostbite can happen when parts of the body such as fingers or toes become frozen due to extreme cold.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Frostbite?

• A prickling pain that is followed by a loss of feeling in the affected area.
• Skin that has been affected will become very hard and first turn white, eventually turning blue and then black.

Try to:

• Warm the affected area slowly in order to prevent further damage to the tissue.
• Obtain medical aid as quickly as possible.

You will need a gauze bandage or dressing.

REMEMBER

DO NOT thaw a frostbitten foot if further walking is necessary
DO NOT warm the frostbitten area with a hot water bottle.

Remove tight clothing around the affected area to allow better blood flow. This can include gloves and boots and other items such as rings. You should then warm the affected area slowly (hands in armpits is a good method) and then apply a loose dressing until the colour and feeling comes back.

5. Arrange For The Casualty To Be Transported.

Arrange to get the casualty to hospital using a stretcher. Do not let them walk or leave them alone.

Additional Reading:
How To Survive In Snow And Extreme Cold

Source: Hypothermia Treatment: What To Do In An Emergency by Robert Holder via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Company Develops New Rifle Straight Out of Blade Runner – Near 100% Kill Rate – Gun Control & Animal Rights Activists Are Furious

With what appears to be straight out of a science fiction movie, a company called TrackingPoint has developed what they call the “Precision Guided Firearm” or PGF. Available in three high-caliber semi-automatic rifle models (5.56, 7.62 & .300) and one bolt action rifle model (.338), the PGF boasts accuracy of up to three-quarters of a mile on a target traveling at up to twenty miles per hour.

The PGF uses the same tracking and fire control technology in fighter planes and the company’s website boasts that shooters of any skill can now shoot more accurately than the best shooters that ever lived. Here is a video of a 12 year old girl hitting a target at 1,000 yards with the PGF.

By combining an optical tagging system with a trigger control, the PGF allows the shooter to tag the desired impact point, then while squeezing the trigger, the firing control mechanism that contains three gyroscopes and three accelerometers fires at the precise moment that the target is centered in the crosshairs virtually eliminating operator error.

Additionally, the system constantly maintains a sighted-in rifle with the built-in Barrel Reference System, meaning that the weapon is always sighted-in.

This dynamic firing mechanism allows for jaw-dropping shots made while both the shooter and the target are moving, and with the use of a wearable technology similar to Google Glass called ReconJet and using an application they developed called ShotGlass, shooters can make shots while remaining safely behind some form of cover.

The military applications for this weapon system are obvious, and the US Army has already purchased 16 of the weapons. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has completed its own tests of the FGS and restricted export of the weapon – banning sales to unfriendly nations.

Starting at nearly $7,500 and topping out at over $24k for the longest range model, the PGF will be out of reach for most, but as production increases, prices will likely go down and make this video game-style weapon more within reach for the average hunter, gun enthusiast, or prepper. This video shows how the system works and what it can do. Almost makes it too easy, right?

Source: Company Develops New Rifle Straight Out of Blade Runner – Near 100% Kill Rate – Gun Control & Animal Rights Activists Are Furious by Shane Turner via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

How to Freeze and Preserve Eggs

We’ve previously written about food waste — and how we throw away tons of good edible food every day.

One thing is throwing away bad food, a completely different thing is to throw away good food simply because we buy too much or plan poorly.

In this article we’ll take a look at how you can freeze eggs to preserve them for later use. This is perfect if you buy eggs from farmers in bulk, raise chickens for eggs or use only parts of the eggs for food preparation.

How long does eggs keep?

Eggs that you buy here in the US are washed. This means that the eggs have to be refrigerated (this is not the case with European eggs). If you keep uncooked eggs in the fridge, they typically last about a month after the pack date — or three-four weeks after you pick them up in the store.

Eggs can safely be eaten three weeks beyond the sell date. Eggs, as long as they’re stored properly, will not really spoil, but the texture and the taste will degrade by time.

How to freeze eggs — the 101

How you should freeze eggs depends on which part of the egg you’re freezing, and what you’re going to use them for later.

In a regular freezer, eggs can be stored for up to a year and should be used only in dishes where they will be thoroughly cooked. To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight.

Egg whites

Egg whites can be frozen in a container as they are — no magic.

Yolks

Yolks can be frozen too, but they require a bit of extra work. To prevent them to thicken and “gel”, beat in 1/8th teaspoon of salt or 1 3/4 teaspoons of sugar per 4 egg yolks. Sugar or salt depends on what you’re going to use the yolks for — savory dishes or sweet deserts.

Whole Eggs

Break the eggs open and batter until blended — and then freeze in a container. Simple.

Hard boiled eggs

Hard boiled eggs don’t freeze very well. The yolks can be frozen and used for garnishing or in salads though.

Remove the yolks from the egg and place them in a single layer in a pan. Cover with water one inch above the yolks and bring to just boiling. Removee the pan and let sit for 12 minutes covered. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain, cool and store in a freezer container.

Source: http://www.treehugger.com/green-food/how-freeze-eggs-later.html. Featured image by woodleywonderworks, Flickr CC

Source: How to Freeze and Preserve Eggs by Jeffrey Webb via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Stop Giving Your Money To the 1%

One of the major consequences of the real estate collapse of 2008 was that many hard working people lost all their money.  The thing with money is it doesn’t disappear it just shifts ownership.  And in this case ownership shifted to the 1%.

“Knowing that a trap exists is the first step in avoiding it” – Frank Herbert, Dune

What we saw occur was a huge consolidation.  The companies that had all the money started to buy up weaker competitors, those seen as having little to no value simply vanished.  And while many people needed aid to survive and recover, the cost of this aid has been detrimental to many communities across the country. We are seeing this with Greece.

Greece must accept aid at the cost of public services and utilities, going as far as being pressured to sell off state owned assets such as airports, marinas and railways. And however absurd the notion of selling the Acropolis, it could come to that. In the end, what will the country become if Greece is not actually owned by Greeks?

In reality, it’s all part of economic evolution.  See, everything is cyclical.  Look at all the market crashes in history, and you will see that the economy has eventually come back.  The weak were weeded out, and new ideas were incorporated.  Unfortunately, those who are not prepared for this get hurt.

With all this in mind, take a look around your community. How many businesses are locally owned? Do you make a point of buying locally? Why or why not?

Buying local means you support entrepreneurs and businesses in your community. These people could be your neighbors that think and live the same way you do. They deal with the same issues as you and many times hold the same values as you.

The biggest benefit to buying locally is keeping the money flow within your community. Not giving it to big corporations that don’t have your best interest at heart. You may think that the pennies you save buying a cheap “made in China” product is being frugal, but in reality, you are damaging your own economy.

What can you do?

Politics is one of the most heated topics in our country. People like to take sides and argue back and forth about which way our country should go. And they believe that they can affect this direction by voting for a particular party or politician. While this may or may not be true, the most powerful way to vote in this country is with your hard earned dollar.

For example, would a company continue to spend money manufacturing, shipping and stocking blue widgets made in China if everyone no one wanted to buy them? Probably not.

Investing in your local economy bolsters leadership, a strong sense of community and safety. Soon a strong sense of trust and loyalty will begin to emerge. And hopefully, in time, this will spread to other communities, towns and cities.

For most, I am probably preaching to the choir. And you might be wondering what your measly dollar can do. However, did you know there is a community in Massachusetts doing all of the above and more?

Dubbed a “great economic experiment” by The New York Times, BerkShares are a local currency for the Berkshire region of Massachusetts. Federal currency is exchanged for BerkShares at eight branch offices of three local banks and spent at 400 locally owned participating businesses. The circulation of BerkShares encourages capital to remain within the region, building a greater affinity between the local business community and its citizens. http://www.berkshares.org/

Berkshire County in Massachusetts has taken “buy local” to a whole new level by creating their own currency. The BerkShare is now accepted by some 400 businesses throughout that region. Economics correspondent Paul Solman explores advantages for both consumers and storefronts.

There are actually, more and more communities enacting similar programs in attempts to keep strengthen their own local markets. If you and your community are less dependent on outside products and services, do you think you would be better prepared for the next economic crisis?

Source: Stop Giving Your Money To the 1% by John Thomas via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

How To Survive A Shark Attack – A Six Step Plan For Staying Safe In The Water

Although shark attacks are rare, and the risk is often minimal, they do still occur so here at Ready Tribe, we thought you guys and gals might like a few tips on what you can do to survive being attacked by a shark.

When these great sea beasts do attack it is usually because a shark is looking for non-human prey and/or they have become trapped and subsequently agitated at low tide, possibly between sandbars or inshore of a sandbank.  As there is always a risk, however slight, it is worth taking some minor precautions in order to mitigate that risk.

• Try not to swim too far from the shore
• Try and stay in groups as sharks are less likely to attack a group than an individual
• Stay out of the water during a sharks most active periods i.e. in darkness and twilight
• Never enter the water if you are bleeding from an open wound. Sharks are attracted to blood!
• Do not wear shiny jewelry in the sea as this could resemble fish scales shimmering – prime shark prey
• Get yourself a Shark Shield for additional safety

So what do you do if you see a shark in the water?

Step 1: Staying calm is vital!

Do your best to stay as calm as possible. There are only a small number of species of sharks that will attack humans when not provoked. They are generally bull sharks, tiger sharks, and great whites and it is not likely that you will be in the same vicinity as them! It is more likely that you will come face to face with one of the smaller species of sharks and it is unlikely they will attack you – as long as they do not feel threatened.

Step 2: Try and Swim away as smoothly as possible

If you do come across a shark in the water then you should swim away as quietly as possible.  Creating a commotion by screaming and splashing about may alert the shark to your presence and may also make them feel alarmed which could lead to them attacking you.

Pic: www.world-of-sharks.com

Step 3: Try And Take Cover

If the shark is displaying aggressive behavior and is swimming directly towards you then attempt to take cover against something so that you minimize the parts of your body that can be struck by the shark. If you are in the water with someone else then you may want to go back to back to help increase the chances of survival. If diving, head to the surface whilst remaining in a back to back  formation with your dive buddy.

Step 4: Make Sure You Fight Back!

if you fond that the shark is coming at you then fight back by kicking and punching it.  Aim for its areas of weakness such as its gills, eyes and nose.

Step 5: Make Sure You Help Other People

There is power in numbers so if you can scare the shark off when it is attacking someone else, do so.

Step 6: Don’t Let This Stop You Enjoying  Yourself In The Water

Although there is a risk of shark attack, it is a very minimal one so do not be put off from enjoying yourself in the sea. Below the video is some facts about shark attacks. Remember: your chances of being attacked by a shark are one in 11.5 million – pretty low odds!

Check out these cool Shark Attack facts from National Geographic:

• 93% of shark attacks from 1580 to 2010 worldwide were on males.
• In 2010, North American waters had 42% of all confirmed unprovoked shark attacks worldwide (32 attacks).
• Surfers accounted for 50.8% of all attacks in 2010.
• Swimmers and waders accounted for 38% of all attacks in 2010.
• Snorkelers and divers accounted for 8% of all attacks in 2010.
• Inflatable rafts and inner tubes accounted for 3% of all attacks in 2010.
• 2010 was the most dangerous year for unprovoked shark attacks in a decade, with 79.
• Over the last half-century, there have been more unprovoked shark attacks in Florida (27 out of a total 139) between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. than at any other time of day.
• New Smyrna Beach in Florida is the shark attack capital of the world according to International Shark Attack File. It is estimated that anyone who has swam there has been within 10 feet of a shark.
• September is the month with the most shark attacks in Florida.
• Since 1907, 201 out of 220 great white attacks have occurred when the human was less than 6 feet from the surface.
• You have a 1 in 63 chance of dying from the flu and a 1 in 11 million chance of being killed by a shark during your lifetime.
• Over 17,000 people die from falls each year. That’s a 1 in 218 chance over your lifetime, compared to a 1 in 11 million chance of being killed by a shark.
• In 1996, toilets injured 43,000 Americans a year. Sharks injured 13.
• In 1996, buckets and pails injured almost 11,000 Americans. Sharks injured 13.
• In 1996, 2,600 Americans were injured by room fresheners. Sharks injured 13.
• The U.S. averages just 19 shark attacks each year and one shark attack fatality every two years. Meanwhile, in the coastal states alone, lightning strikes and kills more than 37 people each year.
• Since 1959, Florida has had more shark attacks (603) than lightning fatalities (459).
• Since 1959, California has had more shark attacks (89) than lightning fatalities (30).
• Since 1959, Hawaii has had 97 shark attacks but no lightning fatalities.
• Only five people die from shark attacks yearly, while millions of people die from starvation.
• Since 1905, Natal (where Durban is) has had 89 shark attacks and 27 fatalities.
• For every human killed by a shark, humans kill approximately two million sharks.
• Most shark attacks occur less than 100 feet from the shore, mainly around popular beaches in North America (especially Florida and Hawaii), Australia, and South Africa.
• In 2008, a polar bear jaw was found in a Greenland shark’s stomach.

Source: How To Survive A Shark Attack – A Six Step Plan For Staying Safe In The Water by Robert Holder via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Renewable Energy Tax Credits & Benefits

Now more than ever, consumers are realizing that the use of renewable energy products in the home truly is the future. The primary reason is that the government offers a tax credit in return to buying and installing some products of sustainable energy. These will include energy efficient windows, insulation, roofs, cooling equipments, doors and heating. The clean energy solutions will help improve your home’s energy footprint, whether it is to cool down during the summer season or to distribute heat in the winter. You can receive as much as 30 percent of the overall cost of what you  spent on the home improvements.

Here is a short outline of the maximum allowable credits, the equipment requirements as well as other details that can vary depending on the technology you install.

Solar Electric Property

photo credit: http://pennsyvania.globalsolarcenter.com/

• 30% tax credit of qualified expenditures for solar electric systems that are put in service after the year 2008.
• No maximum credit will be given for the systems that are put in place after year 2008.
• The systems should be placed in service on or after the 1^st of January 2006 and on or before 31^st of December 2016.
• The home being served by the system need not be the principal residence of the taxpayers.

Solar Water Heating Property

photo credit: commons.wikimedia.or

• 30% tax credit on the cost of the system that are put in place after year 2008.
• The systems should be placed in service on or after 1^st of January 2006 and on or before 31^st of December 2016.
• The equipment needs to be certified for performance by the SRCC or Solar Rating Certification Corporation or any comparable entity being endorsed by the state government where the property has been installed.
• At least of the energy that is being used for heating the water of the dwelling should be from solar so that the expenditures of the property can be considered as eligible.
• The renewable energy tax breaks will not apply to the solar water heating property for hot tubs or swimming pools.
• The home being served by the system need not be the principal residence of the taxpayers.

Small Wind Energy Property

photo credit: www.flickr.com

• No maximum credit will be given for the systems that are put in place after year 2008.
• The systems should be placed in service on or after 1^st of January 2006 and on or before 31^st of December 2016.
• The house being served by the system need not be the principal residence of the taxpayers.

Fuel Cell Property

photo credit: fortikur.com

• Maximum credit is $500 for every half kilowatt.
• The systems should be placed in service on or after 1^st of January 2006 and on or before 31^st of December 2016.
• The fuel cell must include a nameplate capacity of a minimum of 0.5 kW of electricity with the use of the electrochemical process and electricity-only generation efficiency more than 30%.
• For joint occupancy, maximum qualifying costs that must be considered by all the occupants to figure out credit is $1,667 for every 0.5 kW. It will not apply to the married couple a file a joint return. The credit which can be claimed by every person is proportional to the costs that he or she has paid.
• The house being served by the system need not be the principal residence of the taxpayers.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

photo credit: www.kensaheatpumps.com

• No maximum credit will be given for the systems that are put in place after year 2008.
• The systems should be placed in service on or after 1^st of January 2006 and on or before 31^st of December 2016.
• The house being served by the system need not be the principal residence of the taxpayers.
• The geothermal heat pump should meet the criteria of the federal Energy Star.

May of these tax credits expire at the end of 2016, but the long term benefits and cost savings still remain.   If you’re looking to “get off the grid” just a little, help the environment and put some money back in your pocket, any of these renewable energy systems are a great investment.

For some other great ideas for improving the efficiency of your home, check out The Homeowner’s Guide to Renewable Energy.

featured image photo credit: arcadiapower.com

Source: Renewable Energy Tax Credits & Benefits by Roger Steele via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

4 Ways To Start a Fire Without Matches

Every prepper knows having an easy fire starting source is a must. Stuff happens, say for some reason you are out of matches. What do you do now? Cancel the whole trip and go back home? No!

Staying for several days without a fire source can be very dangerous.  Everyone should look up these methods of starting a fire without matches. They might get you out of trouble some day.

How to Start a Fire With a Water Bottle

Did you know you could use a water bottle with clear water to start a fire? The water creates a magnifying effect concentrating the light in one point .

How to Start a Fire by Friction

A classic everybody heard about using friction to start a fire, the principle is simple, but you need hard work and determination for it to work.

How to Start a Fire with a Soda Can

Using the power of the sun and a bit of reflexion from the tin can could save your life.

How to Start Fire with Flint & Steel

One of the oldest tricks in the book, just watch out you don’t accidently cut yourself.

Bonus: How to Find Good Tinder

So you now can make fire, but do you got what it takes to keep it alive?

Source: 4 Ways To Start a Fire Without Matches by Randy Smith via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Top Handgun Safes Reviews

Looking for the best handguns safe on the market today? Searching for the best gun safe through hundreds of models can be a daunting task. As gun enthusiasts  ourselves, we encountered the same problems. There are many models with shiny looks with lots of marketing behind them but can they really keep you gun safe?

Don’t Let It Happen
Be Prepared!

We tried compiling a list of the true time tested handgun safes that are already used by hundreds and thousands of people. We aim to keep it simple and short to the point while also giving you a chance to pick the one you think will fit your needs the best.

GunVault SpeedVault SV500

The SpeedVault SV 500 allows a single handgun to be stored securely under a desk, next to a bed or cabinet. It is ideal for personal protection due to its speed of access to the firearm.  Children will have no chance opening it but a determined intruder could brake it with alot of effort.

Features:

• Digital Keypad
• Multiple mounting options
• 18-gauge steel construction
• Backup override key included
• Audio and LED low battery warning

Price:

Check On Amazon

BARSKA Top Opening Biometric Fingerprint Safe

BARSKA has given this handgun safe a very sturdy and solid feel to it. It weights around 21 lbs. There are no bells and whistles on this safe, it does what it needs to and it does it well. It can hold 2-3 pistols lying flat with room for ammo.

Features:

• Top-opening biometric drawer safe
• Fingerprint control can store up to 30 users
• Pre-drilled holes allow safe to be mounted into the floor, a shelf, or counter top
• Two solid steel locking bolts; motorized deadbolt lock
• Protective floor mat, emergency back-up keys, and mounting hardware

Price:

Check On Amazon

GunVault NV200 NanoVault with Key Lock

The Nano vault NV200 feels very sturdy and compact.  Yes, it can be breached but only with a lot of effort and determination.

Features:

• Easy to operate Key Lock System
• 18 Gauge steel construction
• 1.25″ thick memory foam interior
• Compact size allows storage virtually anywhere
• Includes a 1,500 lb tested security cable

Price:

Check On Amazon

Gunvault MV500-STD Microvault

A compact but very heavy duty guns safe. You will have a hard time trying to break it with only hand tools. The so-called “No-Eyes Keypad” is a nice feature which can help you unlock the case in the dark. It’s audio feedback feature can be disabled if you want. The built-in computer blocks access after too many failed attempts.

Features:

• Outside is constructed of heavy-gauge steel.
• Soft foam on the inside protects the pistol.
• High-Strength lock mechanism.
• Precise fittings are virtually impossible to pry open with hand tools.
• Built-in computer blocks access after repeated invalid keypad entries.

Price:

Check On Amazon

Source: Top Handgun Safes Reviews by Randy Smith via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

How To Tie a Square Knot and the Four Times You Should NEVER Use Them

Here at Ready Tribe we like to try and bring you useful information that you can use in everyday life, as well as in a disaster or emergency situation. Today we are talking knots – specifically the square knot. If you want to know how to tie this beauty properly you can find our step by step guide below.

The square knot is one of the most familiar types of knot and is relatively easy to tie. It is often referred to by our British and Australian cousins as a reef knot and is a favorite of scouting groups across the world. It is a flat lying arrangement which can be very useful in situations such as tying bandages etc.

Although this kind of binding is widely used, it should never be used in a critical emergency situation as it can have a tendency to slip and even come unbound when lightly jiggled. It is vital that stronger knots should be utilized in critical situations or when supporting any weight.

What Are Square Knots Good For?

• Tying down reefing and furling sails on a sailboat
• Tying bandages and other first aid situations
• Tying your shoelaces on your favorite hiking boots
• Tying up parcels
• Binding items together i.e. firewood

When Not To Use Them

• Any critical or emergency situation VERY IMPORTANT
• When supporting anything of weight – including yourself or another person!
• When tying ropes of 2 different thicknesses together
• When using nylon or other smooth rope material

How To Make A Square Knot

Step 1. Pass the end of rope held in your right hand (Red rope) over the end in your left hand (Blue rope).

Step 2. Pass the red rope underneath the blue rope.

Step 3. Pass the red end back over the blue end

Step 4. Repeat the process

Step 5. Red end over and then under the blue end.

Step 6. Finally, pull the red end back over the blue and pull tightly.

The finished reef knot should be relatively flat and look symmetrical in shape.

 

Variations

Add an extra half knot for a little bit more security.

The surgeons knot has an extra half turn in the first half that helps to reduce slipping. This is often used for stitching during an operation.

The granny knot is a result of tying the second part in the wrong direction .i.e. Instead of placing the red rope over the blue rope, it is tied underneath. The granny variation is even weaker than its correct cousin so if it isn’t flat and symmetrical then re-tie it.

The thief knot has the ends of both ropes on opposite sides. Legend has it that sailors would use this kind of fastening to see if anyone had tampered with their bundle of belongings. This is an extremely weak variety and is actually more difficult to tie than a normal square knot.

Have you seen our Ready Tribe guide to making a grass rope? Find it here.

Watch The Video For A Full Demonstration

Source: How To Tie a Square Knot and the Four Times You Should NEVER Use Them by Robert Holder via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Friday Freebies – Free Prepper Resources

We’re back this week with another edition of free prepper resources. These ebooks are available for free download from Amazon as of this writing. Go grab them!

Wilderness and Travel Medicine: A Complete Wilderness Medicine and Travel Medicine Handbook (Survival, Escape and Evasion)

A Minimalist Approach to Wilderness Medicine, Travel Medicine, Survival Medicine and Home Remedies

Whether it is first aid, wilderness medicine, travel medicine, survival medicine or home remedies, different scenarios call for different treatments, and Wilderness and Travel Medicine: : A Complete Wilderness Medicine and Travel Medicine Handbook will prepare you for all of them.

Note: Although this book has a minimalist approach, there is A LOT of information covering a VERY wide range of ailments.

 

Prepper’s Survival Handbook: The Ultimate Prepper’s Handbook for Long-Term Survival and Self-Sufficient Living (Practical Preppers)

Would you be able to survive for any length of time without modern amenities? If so, how would you do it? What tools and skills are required and how do you put it all together into a working survival plan? From Hollywood dramatizations to real-life catastrophes that seem to occur on a daily basis, there is no shortage of potential emergencies that could leave society in shambles.

Maybe it’s a blizzard that shuts down roads, supply routes and electricity for a week. Or maybe zombies really do take over the world – leaving a select few humans to rebuild society without modern amenities (just kidding – well, then again…). Whether or not you believe that “World War Z” could happen isn’t the point of this book. Rather, I want to make sure you are prepared for any potential threat should it occur.

 

Wilderness. Alone In The Wild. Outdoor Survival Skills: (survival guide, wilderness survival for dummies, finding your way without map or compass, navigation … pantry, prepper book, Prepping Book 1)

The wilderness is something many people take for granted nowadays. However, at any time, you may find yourself in the wilderness, unable to call for help. What do you need to do in order to survive? How can you find your way out? What should you do if animals attack? Can you use the sky as a map? How do you know what you can or cannot eat?

 

Mason Jar Prepper’s Pantry: How to Use Mason Jars to Store Meals and Prepare for Emergency Situations (Practical Preppers)

Are you already an experienced prepper wanting to increase your knowledge and skill set? Or maybe you have no previous prepping experience but have become concerned with world events to the point that you want to take any steps possible to secure the safety of your family in an uncertain future?
Either way, this book is for you. We are going to discuss one of the most important supplies that you probably haven’t given a whole lot of thought to in the past. Mason jars. Yup, those glass jars we often associate with canning and other preservation techniques. Believe it or not, mason jars have tons of uses in the context of survival and the goal of this book is to cover all of them — well, at least as many as possible.

Whether you want to preserve food for long periods of time, need a unique way to store necessary items or any of the other uses described in the pages to follow, my hope is that you learn just how useful mason jars are when preparing for the worst.

Survival Box Set: 79 Lessons to Live an Independent and Stress Free Life off the Grid + 15 Outstanding House Ideas. 33+ Items You Will Need to Stay Alive … preppers survival guide, survival kits)

BOOK #1: Off Grid Living: 23 Techniques With Step-By-Step Instructions on How to Live Off-the-Grid and Survive in the Wild

BOOK #2: The SHTF Stockpile: 33 Items You Will Need to Stay Alive When Disaster Strikes

BOOK #3: The SHTF Stockpile: Items Every Bug Out Bag Needs for Survival in the Wild

BOOK #4: Living off the Grid: 15 Outstanding House Ideas For Living off the Grid

BOOK #5: Off Grid Living: 23 Tips to Re-Assemble Your Life and Disappear Living off The Grid

BOOK #6: Off Grid Living: 33 Lessons on How to Live an Independent and Stress Free Life off the Grid

Concealed Carry for Beginners: Fundamentals for Every Citizen Carrying a Concealed Weapon for Self-Defense (Prepper’s Self Defense)

It is every person’s duty and obligation to protect the lives of his family and himself. With mass shootings becoming more commonplace in the media, and high risk of danger in the most populated cities across the nation, having the ability to defend yourself is a no-brainer—but understand how to defend yourself legally can be difficult.

In this book, I seek to set the record straight on why carrying a gun on your body at all times isn’t just a right, but a necessity. I’ll show you how concealed carry laws have saved lives, and what lessons can be drawn from those examples.

Acquiring a permit to carry a concealed weapon varies from state to state—I’ll show you the most common obstacles you’ll find in acquiring your permit, as well as take a look at the most forgiving (and most strict) states where carrying a firearm is concerned.

Survival SOS Pantry: Useful Ideas for Keeping Food and Surviving in Immensely Hot Climates (survival guide, survival tips, bug out bag)

Survival SOS Pantry is a book designed to bring the reader new and innovative solutions to the problems of keeping food and sustaining life under extreme heat and the most difficult of circumstances. While there are many books on survival, there are very few such as this one wherein the problems are very specific, and unique to certain geographical influences.

 

The Death Of Money: The Prepper’s Guide To Surviving Economic Collapse, The Loss Of Paper Assets And How To Prepare When Money Is Worthless (Barter,Dollar, … Fiat, Grid) (SHTF Survival Book 2)

Surviving an economic collapse requires that you be prepared. This small guide will enable you to formulate a plan, allowing you to be proactive instead of reactive to a catastrophic financial crisis. In four chapters, you will gain invaluable knowledge and insight into what it takes to ensure you and your family have the tools necessary to survive the devastating impact of the loss of paper assets. Discover the skills you need to withstand the perils of a vulnerable financial system.

 

 

 

Source: Friday Freebies – Free Prepper Resources by Mark Taylor via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

The Drone Papers

Our Take: While we’re not going to pretend to understand the ins and outs of foreign affairs, the fact that once again our Government is saying one thing and doing another just continues to reinforce the need for readiness and vigilance.

THE ASSASSINATION COMPLEX

The Intercept has obtained a cache of secret documents detailing the inner workings of the U.S. military’s assassination program in Afghanistan, Yemen, and Somalia. The documents, provided by a whistleblower, offer an unprecedented glimpse into Obama’s drone wars.

“From his first days as commander in chief, the drone has been President Barack Obama’s weapon of choice, used by the military and the CIA to hunt down and kill the people his administration has deemed — through secretive processes, without indictment or trial — worthy of execution. There has been intense focus on the technology of remote killing, but that often serves as a surrogate for what should be a broader examination of the state’s power over life and death.”

The whistleblower who leaked the drone papers believes the public is entitled to know how people are placed on kill lists and assassinated on orders from the president.

New details about the secret criteria for drone strikes and how the White House approves targets.

The tip of the spear in the Obama administration’s ramped up wars in Somalia and Yemen was a special operations task force called TF 48-4.

A secret Pentagon study highlights the chronic flaws in intelligence used for drone strikes in Yemen and Somalia.

Continue reading Via theintercept.com

SECRET MILITARY DOCUMENTS EXPOSE THE INNER WORKINGS OF OBAMA’S DRONE WARS

Source: The Drone Papers by Paul Stevens via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.

Homemade Catfish Bait – Top 12 Catfish Bait Recipes

I will be the first to freely admit that my fishing bait knowledge starts and stops with the worms I buy at the local bait store.   So when I decided that I wanted to learn more about fishing for catfish I thought I better do some research on the best homemade catfish bait recipes.

Fishing The Internet For The Best Homemade Catfish Bait Recipes

So searching the interwebs far and wide I found these 12 that seem to be the “best” out there.  My requirements were simple when choosing them.

First, is it easy to make?

Second, does the author provide proof it works?

Third, can I get the ingredients pretty much anywhere?

Fourth, is it easy to make?

The first thing I wanted to know was, what kind of bait do I need or should use to have the best chance of success.

What I found was that there is a short list of the best baits:

chicken liver
minnows
grasshoppers
night crawlers
worms
live perch
shad
crawfish
stinky baits
marshmallows
small frogs
cheese
hot dogs
peanut butter

So armed with that I began my search and here are the 12 best homemade catfish bait recipes that I was able to dig up.

Catfish Bait Recipe #1: Father’s Recipe

Here are some of the things you’ll need in regards to how to make your own catfish bait or at least the best homemade catfish bait:

• 1 1/2 c. Livers (Chicken, Deer, Cow, whatever you have)
• 1/4 c. Flour
• 2-3 T. Garlic Salt
• 1 Sardine & 2 T. Sardine Oil (from the can)
• 2 tsp Strawberry Jello
• 1 egg

You should blend the liver until it becomes a liquid, then empty it into a clean PLASTIC peanut butter jar and add the remaining ingredients. Stir well until thick. Cover.

Do NOT open indoors. You should allow the bait to sit for at least forty-eight hours. Remember, the rawer, the better.

I love the above recipe for its simplicity, and the author says that it definitely does its job of catching plenty of catfish.

Catfish Bait Recipe #2: Catfish Melange

1.  Melt 1 pound of cheese (I like to use Velveeta).
2. Chop up 6 or 8 ounces of chicken liver and add it to the melted cheese.
3. Add a spoonful of garlic powder, and mix in 1 can of wet dog food… plus about 12 minnows and some flour.
4. Mix it up in a blender or food processor, put a bit on the end of your hook, and hold on!

Catfish Bait Recipe #3: Catfish Stink Bait Recipe

While it isn’t the best smelling homemade catfish bait out there, it is the most effective.

• 2 Cans Tuna in Oil
• 2 Cans Sardines in Mustard
• ½ lb. Chicken Livers
• 2 Boxes Stuffing Mix
• 1 Bag Stuffing Bread

Mix tuna, sardines and chicken livers in a sealable container. Seal and set outside for a week. Remember to place in a secure, raccoon proof location. A week later, outside, mix in stuffing mix and stuffing bread until a thick dough-like consistency is reached. Be sure to use a utensil you will not need in the future or stick to stir the mixture.

Catfish Bait Recipe #4: Cajun Catfish Bait

1. Mix 1 pound of rotten minnows, ½ cup water, ½ cup parmesan cheese, 1 box of jello (cherry is good), 1/4 cup molasses, 3 tablespoons of onion salt, 3 tablespoons of garlic salt, 1 cup of bread crumbs, and 3 tablespoons of soy sauce… all in a blender!
2. Once it’s mixed, put it in a big bowl.
3. Add flour to it, and work it into a big stinky batch of dough.
4. Grab a small chunk of the stuff, put it on a #4 treble hook, and drop it down for instant catfish strikes.

Catfish Bait Recipe #5: Lye Soap Catfish Bait Recipe

• 2 lb. Lard
• 4.4 oz. Lye (handle with care)
• 7 oz. Water

While outside or in a well-ventilated area, put the water in a glass bowl and slowly pour in the lye, letting it dissolve. The mixture will heat up as the lye reacts to the water. Let cool till the temperature reaches around 85 degrees. Melt lard and bring the temperature to 90 degrees. Slowly pour the dissolved lye into the lard as you continue to stir. Stir the mixture until it reaches the consistency of thick gravy. Pour into ice cube trays and let set for three days. Cubes should set and able to slide a hook through.

You might have reservations about using lye in your homemade catfish bait, however, the author claims that it is very effective.

Catfish Bait Recipe #6: Old Man Liver

1. Blend up about a pound of chicken liver, a half box of corn flakes, a half cup of garlic powder, one-third a cup of parmesan cheese, molasses, and sugar.
2. When it’s mixed, put it in some small dishes…then put whatever you’re not going to use in a freezer. Of course, it works better if “served” to the catfish fresh.
3. Add some flour to thicken enough so it will stay on a hook.

Catfish Bait Recipe #7: Wheaties Catfish Bait Recipe

• 4 Cups Wheaties Cereal
• 1 lb. Hamburger
• ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese
• 1 Tablespoon Garlic
• ¼ Cup Cooking Oil (used works better)
• Water

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl then slowly add water until you reach a doughy consistency.

Catfish Bait Recipe #8: Chicken ‘n’ Beer Baiter

• 3 cups of cornmeal
• 3 cups of flour
• 2 cups of oatmeal
• 1 full can of beer (the older, the better!)
• 12 “ripe” minnows, shad, or small tuna (the more oily the better!)
• 10 ounces of corn syrup
• A bunch of chicken livers, shrimp. cat food, etc… (whatever else you want to add to “spice” things up!)
• 1 big container to hold everything

1. Mix it all together to a consistency like peanut butter. (Add milk or beer to get it to the right consistency.)
2. Seal the container and let it sit for 2-3 weeks outside…it’s all going to rot… BAD. If it thickens up too much, spray with WD-40 and mix it again.

Catfish Bait Recipe #9: Liver Loaf Catfish Bait Recipe

• 2 Cups Chicken Livers
• 1 Loaf of Bread
• ¼ Cup Dark Molasses

Cut the chicken livers into small pieces. Combine molasses and chicken livers into large bowl, adding bread after. Smush together with hands until all ingredients are combined and a formable consistency.

Catfish Bait Recipe #10: “Clean” Catfish Bait

• A few bars of ivory soap
• a half cup of sugar
• a half cup of water
• 2 or 3 plastic ice trays

1. Mix the water and sugar in a small pot and dissolve it.
2. Use a grater to shave some soap into the mixture and heat it all over a low fire. Stir until all the soap is melted.
3. Use a spoon and fill the ice trays with the soapy/sweet mixture.
4. Let the soapy mixture in the ice trays cool for just a few minutes, just until it starts to solidify again. Do NOT let it get too solid, or it will break.
5. Remove the cubes, cut then into smaller bait-size chunks. (remember, don’t let it harden all the way or this will be impossible!)
6. Place the cubes into an air tight container… when ready, put them on single or trable hooks and fish!

Now…if you want to keep things simple just use chunks of Velveeta cheese… or some sort of meaty dog food. Another way is to use chunks of hot dog, put ’em in a jar and cover them with fish oil and minced garlic.

Catfish Bait Recipe #11: Meat and Cheese Catfish Bait Recipe

• 1 lb. Uncooked Ground Meat (beef, turkey, deer, etc.)
• 1 Cup Velveta Cheese or American Cheese Slices
• 1 Tablespoon Garlic (preferably minced)
• Flour

Melt cheese until soft. Combine with meat and garlic and mix until cheese is evenly distributed. Slowly add flour to mixture until you reach a play-dough like consistency. Form into balls. Keeps well in a plastic bag in the freezer.

Catfish Bait Recipe #12: Cream Corn Homemade Catfish Bait Recipe

• 1 Can Cream Corn
• ¼ Cup Leftover Grease (bacon drippings, hamburger grease, etc.)
• 2 Cups Corn Meal
• 1 Cup Oats
• 1 Tablespoon Corn Starch

Mix cream corn and grease. Heat until warm and grease melts. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl. Pour corn and grease mixture into dry ingredients. Mix together well and form balls to your desired size.

Where I found these homemade catfish bait recipes:

LakeFishingTechniques.com
SkilledSurvival.com
TheOkieAngler.com
OldSchoolFishingSecrets.com

Tell me what you think, do you have your own favorite catfish bait you want to share?

 

Source: Homemade Catfish Bait – Top 12 Catfish Bait Recipes by Christopher Koga via Ready Tribe - Don't Just Survive, Thrive!.