PAKMULE - The Rollout of 3 New Products

I am a huge fan of of our PAKMULE and PAKMULE Ridgeline, which we use all the time on our 4Runner, Element and golf cart, and if you've read T.F.M. for any amount of time you likely have already read the gear reviews HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.  Photographs often pop up on my Instagram too.  The PAKMULE has given us so much more room when packing for trips and always having a cooler (or two) accessible is handy as well.  

 

Over the past couple of weeks, PAKMULE has rolled out three new products to further enhance your overbuilt cargo carrier that are all worth a look.  The Decking would have come in handy yesterday as Finn and I were moving dirt and brush from our spring landscaping clean up project to the burn pile.

PAKMULE TAIL LIGHT

PAKMULE DECKING

PAKMULE STIRRUP

Considering a PAKMULE for your summer adventures?  I'm more than happy to answer questions or talk to you more about my experience for the past several years using ours a ton. 

Expensive?  Yes.  Worth it.  Undoubtedly, yes.  I'd file this under "Buy Once, Cry Once" and rock on.

All PAKMULE products are "Made in the USA", there's free shipping with orders over $150, and use code "FLYFISHING" for a free set of MULESTRAPS with your order.

PAKMULE - Three More Days to Save

If asked what piece of gear that has changed the way that we travel most, the PAKMULE would undoubtably top the list.  It has fundamentally changed how we plan and pack for trips, and both our ORIGINAL and RIDGELINE makes for additional space for gear, keeps items we need most accessible back the back of the vehicle, and gives us a "work station" of sorts for tailgate meals.

As with a lot of things right now, the costs of manufacturing and freight is necessitating a price increase on an already premium product and if you've been considering pulling the trigger on a PAKMULE, the time is now as this coming week the price will bump up.

You can circle back to a few T.F.M. where the PAKMULE has been highlighted HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.  You can find more links with PAKMULE info by searching in the "Search T.F.M." box in the bottom right corner of the page.

From PAKMULE...  "We've always been a company that prides ourselves on building lifelong products, built by American workers, in safe and fair work conditions. As a result, our products are never put on sale. Simply put, we offer you the best damn carriers at the best damn prices we can.  Period. 

Although the prices of our ORIGINAL, RIDGELINE, and SWAYBACK are increasing due to the increasing costs of materials and freight, what won't change is the strength, durability, design, and the proud fact that our Carriers are 100% made in Texas.

Starting September 7, 2021, our price of all carriers will increase by $150."

Remember...  Buy Once.  Cry Once. 

If you've been considering a PAKMULE, now is the time to place that order.  

Remember to use code "FLYFISHING" for a set of 6' MULEStraps.

GEAR REVIEW - 10 Tools for Quarantine

How many weeks have we been in quarantine of some sort?  I've lost track but I do know that I've spent a lot of the Sundays, along with a few week days off, in the woods that surround our home laying down dead trees, taking load after load of brush and vines to the burn pile and waking up the next morning sore in places that I'm not usually sore.  Am I getting old?  I'm starting to feel that way. 

As I was wrapping up woods work last Sunday in the rain, I went over a mental list of the gear that's made a difference with these outdoor projects and then snapped a quick photo with the essentials laid out on the PAKMULE for a quick gear review to share.  Here's the breakdown in alphabetical order...

BUG-Z EYE MESH GOGGLES
I'm not sure where I first saw these since I can't find a company website anywhere but I ordered a pair of these goggles from Amazon five or six years ago and they are always nearby my chainsaw.  I also keep them handy when I edge or trim as well.  The steel mesh lenses won't fog like other protective goggles and I find them comfortable to wear.

Now all that said, you're going to look silly in them as they live up to the name "Bug-z Eye".  Your kids will laugh and you'll have two perfectly protected eyes to see their amusement.

Amazon seems like the best place to pick up a pair for yourself.

GERBER CENTER-DRIVE MULTI-TOOL
Over the years I've gotten to play with a lot of different multi-tools from the various makers and the one that I reach for most is the Gerber Center-Drive.  There are a multitude of configurations of tool, bit set and sheath offered in this "Made in USA" multi-tool but they all boil down to a well thought out design with spring loaded pliers that slide out to engage.  The real winner with this tool is the swing arm bit driver.  I keep it in my tool bag and constantly grabbing it to tighten, loosen or take apart something. 

The Gerber Center-Drive is a well thought out multi-tool where everything included is full size and makes sense which is more than I can say for a lot of other similar tools out there.

GIVE'R LIGHTWEIGHT GLOVES
For years I've worn (and worn through) cheapie leather gloves from the hardware store.  The finger tips usually give out first and then it's downhill from there.  Time to break in another pair or maybe consider a better glove.  Enter Give'r gloves...

Some time back I ordered a full set of gloves from Give'r (if I remember correctly they sent a pair to demo and I ordered the two other pairs to complete the set) and have used the Lightweight Gloves for outside work and camp chores, the lined Classic Gloves for cold days and then the 4-Season Gloves for skiing, tubing, sledding and snow play.

After a lot of hours working in the woods the Lightweight Gloves have outlasted any leather glove I've worn before.  When and if these wear out, I'll get another pair.  I think the initials burnt into the glove is a nice touch too.

One note on ordering, I'm usually a medium in gloves and ordered all three of these gloves in size large following their size chart.  I think I'd have a better hand fit in size medium, especially in the Lightweight and Classic gloves and will go that route next go around.

HUSQUVARNA 350 CHAINSAW
Almost twenty years ago my wife's grandmother gifted us a piece of land which is part of a much larger family property (measured in hundreds of acres) where we had our house built.  The first step however was to clear the land and since where our house sits was heavily wooded, I needed a chainsaw.

The Husquvarna 350 was the first of what seems like too many outdoor tool purchases and simply put, it's outlasted them all.  I can't speak for the current line up of Husquvarna chainsaws but this 350 has done a ton of work over the years with hardly a hiccup.  It went to the small engine repair shop this spring for a tune up, I replaced the bar last week and it continues to perform.

Future planning a bit, I'd like to add the Husquvarna 535i XP to the kit for limbing and carrying along on camping trips. Battery powered tools are making huge strides from where they were just a few years ago and having one of these around would be handy for sure.

KICKER BULLFROG BF400 BLUETOOTH SPEAKER
The ability to play music and podcasts are a big part of keeping me going when working outside and instead of headphones (likely turned up too loud) I've opted to use a speaker with the Kicker Bullfrog BF400.  These speakers are outdoor ready, tough and weather-proof.

We have a couple of these speakers and these provide great sound, have connectivity between multiple speakers to increase or extend that sound, feature a built in FM tuner and there's even an app to use on your mobile phone which puts the speaker controls in your hand.

We've had these long enough that I ended up having an issue with one of the BF400's not taking a charge.  A email exchange with the warranty department provided a seamless return and we had a new speaker back in just a few days.

Not sure how long the sale will last but the BF100 and BF400 are on priced right online.   

LANSKY DUAL GRIT PUCK & NATHAN'S HONING OIL
Keeping tools sharp is paramount and to brush up the edge of everything from a shovel to axes to the Woodman's Pal, the Lansky Puck (with a couple drops of oil) is my go-to.  The dual grit puck is easy to use in sharpening your outdoor tools and I'm not sure they ever wear out.  Buy this kit for less than $20 and you'll always have it when you need it. 

MUCK BOOT COMPANY WETLAND
I've written about the Wetland boots several times before (read HERE and HERE) and I'll never not have a pair around.  These boots are comfortable, waterproof and handy for work or play.  When not in the woods, they are great for cool mornings getting in and out of the kayak down at the pond. 

This first pair is starting to show their age and I've patched them in a few spots from thorns tearing up the uppers but they still perform.  It'll be time for a new pair at some point but until then these will keep working.

PAKMULE CARGO CARRIER
We have a hopped up electric golf cart with a truck style bed in the back and by adding the PAKMULE to the hitch it more than doubles the space that I can pile up logs, limbs and brush when making trips to the burn pile.  This means less trips and a ton more capacity.

The PAKMULE has been featured in countless Instagram Stories on my feed but you can also circle back and read past T.F.M. posts HERE, HERE and HERE on how this hitch carrier has changed how we travel and work.

I've owed Kansas at PAKMULE a full review for some time now (It's coming, I promise...) but both the original PAKMULE and the PAKMULE Ridgeline are constantly in use on our 4Runner, Element and golf cart.

If you're interested in purchasing a PAKMULE, let me know with an email.  I believe there is a deal in place for T.F.M. readers that I can pass along before you order.

WOODMAN'S PAL
There are few tools that have the story that the Woodman's Pal does and what's most telling is that a design that was first released in 1941 is largely unchanged almost 80 years later.   The Woodman's Pal is a cutting and chopping tool like none other that I've used.  The design of the Woodman's Pal creates a balanced tool that trims, prunes and chops with ease.  It's almost scary how easy it can be to work through limbs and trees when clearing.

Not too long agao, Woodman's Pal was bought out by a new company and they have made a few enhancements to the product with a ergonomic wood grip and it's housed in a much higher quality leather sheath.  Now included too is a Lansky Sharpening Stone which is a nice touch over the small (kinda useless/not user friendly) stone that was provided before.

One note on sharpening your Woodman's Pal with the Lansky stone or puck, with just a little bit of work it will be scary sharp and it holds it's edge for a long time too.  

Over the years I've gifted the Woodman's Pal to several fly fishing guides as it's perfect to have in the boat for situations on tight woods choked rivers where you need to clear a way through.

Use code "TFM" for $20 off and free shipping of a Woodman's Pal of your own.  This discount is good through Father's Day.

YETI RAMBLER 36 OUNCE BOTTLE
Hours in the woods means that you need to stay hydrated and the largest bottle in the Rambler line up from YETI is my choice.   I fill with ice to begin the day and just refill water as needed.

The Rambler is made of 18/8 stainless steel, available in a mix of DuraCoat colors and currently is offered with the new Chug Cap which I'm a big fan of.

Well, that's my mix of tools used in heavy rotation here.  I'm off today which means I'll likely be in the woods doing more of this all afternoon.


Not into tools and more into fly fishing?  Me too.  Look for "10 for Spring -Warmwater Edition" and "10 for Spring - Trout Edition" coming soon...

PAKMULE - The Hitchin' Post

We are on a long holiday weekend trip down to Isle of Palms and our PAKMULE was loaded down with a YETI Tundra 45 cooler, my bicycle, beach chairs, and more.  We say it often that we just couldn't do these family trips with all the damn gear that we carry without the additional cargo space that the PAKMULE gives us.

However, it's likely that your PAKMULE can't be on your vehicle all the time and the Hitchin' Post was introduced as a way to securely store your cargo carrier.



Ready to buy a PAKMULE of your own?  Use code "flyfishing" for a free set of 6' MULEStraps with your order.

Have any questions about PAKMULE?  I'm happy to answer any questions you have with an email.

Introducing the... PAKMULE SCOUT

Longtime T.F.M. readers should know that we're a big PAKMULE family and our PAKMULE PRO and RIDGELINE PRO have made travel, camping, and work on our property so much easier.  

 

We've paired ours on our 4Runner, Honda Element, "rugged" golf cart, and most recently our Subaru Outback Wilderness.  You can read about our PAKMULE adventures and reviews HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE. 

 

The folks at PAKMULE have added another cargo carrier to the family with the SCOUT and by first looks, I'm impressed.  Made in U.S.A. of 70% recycled aluminum, built-in floor (which would be handy), with rails and lash points throughout.  Weighing in at less than 40 pounds and a capacity of 500 pounds makes this an everyday hauler.  Pricing is still a bit of "Buy Once, Cry Once" at $695, but you get what you pay for and there's no reason to second guess this investment. 

Take a moment and check out this short video for more looks at the SCOUT.



Visit the PAKMULE website to learn more about the SCOUT and if you place an order, use code "FLYFISHING" for a free set of MULESTRAPS. 

PAKMULE - Find Your Perfect Rack

We were early adopters to PAKMULE and the Ridgeline carrier has been locked on our Subaru Outback for months now to get us through summer travels and weekend excursions.  It's the perfect addition to our latest adventure mobile.  You can circle back to a few previous T.F.M. posts where the PAKMULE has been highlighted HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.  We're fans but finding that perfect one for your own car, truck, or SUV is essential.

In this video, PAKMULE founder Kansas Sartin breaks down each model and explains the best fit for each vehicle type.  It'll be my new quick reference to share when I get emails on PAKMULE and which model someone should consider.



Visit the PAKMULE website to check out these rock solid hitch carriers and remember to use code "FLYFISHING" for a free set of MULEstraps with your hitch carrier purchase.

THE ROAD TO 300K - Off Grid in the Chattahoochee N.F.

As our 2004 Honda Element ticks ever closer to the 300,000 mile mark, we've started chronicling the trips, 1,000 miles at a time, with a series of T.F.M. posts.  You can circle back to the first post, though I ended up skipping 291-292,000 miles as the one remarkable thing we did was a weekend run up to Clemson for tailgating and the game.  Now we're jumping back into it with 292-293,000 miles with a weekend camping trip with our daughter and her youth leaders team from church.  This was a small group trip with five teenagers, three adults, two vehicles and admittedly enough camping gear and food to fully stock a small shop.

Our Friday night arrival meant setting up camp under headlight and in the rain.  That rain would only increase through the night and then continue into late Saturday afternoon.  Hadley and her friends could have cared less about the rain and we all readied our tents and hammocks before starting dinner.  I'll mention it again in the "Gear Notes" from this trip, but this was the first time using the Yakima SlimShady Awning and it saved the weekend.

Each teen was responsible for cooking their own meals through the weekend which meant that Melissa and I mapped out our own menu with a couple of surprises to share with everyone and an emergency stash of ramen, just in case.

Saturday morning we were up early to a full on downpour.  We stayed huddled under the awning, quickly boiled a pot of water for press pot coffee and got to making a batch of monkey bread for everyone.  It was kind of a leisure morning and nice to sit in my chair reading for a bit as well.

The morning continued with waves of rain that went from a drizzle to a full on downpour and we loaded everyone into two cars, our Element and a mid-90's 4X4 Chevrolet Suburban, to crawl around the mountain trail roads of the Chattahoochee National Forest for a few hours.  A lot of it was pretty well groomed with a rock or pothole to dodge here or there but we did go through a several mile section that was down from Springer Mountain that was much more rock hopping than we expected but the Element handled it just fine.  The all wheel drive kicked in a few times, we scraped a rock here and there and amazingly did not get stuck.  The Element continues (even in it's old age) to impress.     

We were back to camp in the late afternoon and fortunately the sun had burnt off the rain clouds.  Though it was not a warm day, Hadley and her friends still went "creeking" until almost dark.  They came back soaked, happy and ready to sit around the fire for a couple of hours.  The emergency ramen stash was raided, there were S'mores, stories and laughter and what almost seemed like snow falling (more like sleet) wrapped things up and jumped into sleeping bags for the night. 

GEAR NOTES
Trips like this (wet, cold, rain and off grid) are always a good testing ground for gear and during this trip there was a short list of things that made all the difference.  Here's the ones that stood out and performed with excellence throughout the weekend.

YAKIMA SLIMSHADY AWNING 
I'm not sure how much sense it makes to be kitting out a vehicle with almost 300,000 miles but we recently installed a Yakima awning on the Element and wish I would have done it years ago.  It was super easy to add to the preexisting Yakima round bars, stays secure and out of the way when not in use and super easy to open up when needed.

Once rolled out, it provides 78 inches by 78 inches of cover out of the weather and the rigid framework of the awning keeps the cover taunt at all times with hook and latch straps on each of the sides.

I don't know what we would have done without the SlimShady Awning on this trip as cooking in the rain is absolutely no fun.  We're going to invest in a second one for our (just paid off this week) Toyota 4Runner soon.

THE MUCK BOOT COMPANY WETLAND
I've been wearing Muck Boots for a few years now, bought pairs for our children and my wife, who didn't think she needed a pair, and the entire family swears by them now.  There is just nothing better that I've worn for wet, mud or mess.  They are easy to slip on an off, waterproof and provide some warmth with 5mm neoprene.  I'll never not have a pair around and more or less live in them when outside from fall through spring when working outside.

CAMP CHEF PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR OVEN & EVEREST CAMPING STOVE
I've been using a few different propane camp stoves and hadn't used the Everest Camping Stove for awhile.  I was immediately reminded how impressive this stove is with it's never fail matchless ignite system and a ton of heat that rolls immediately rolls out of the 20,000 BTU burners.

I've had the Professional Outdoor Oven for the past six months or so and this is really changing what is possible to serve for camp meals.  Two 9,000 BTU burners on top and an up to 400 degree oven below give all sorts of options to make your camping trip nothing short of "glamping".

For me there was is a small learning curve when using the oven and so far I've found it true to temperature and it's a good idea to do two things for best results.  First, keep the pan off the back wall of the oven and second, rotate your pan every few minutes.  The heat for the oven comes from the floor and travels up the back wall making for a hotter space and turning whatever is baking on a every five minute rotation has been the ticket to prevent burning or an uneven cook.

EXPED MEGAMAT MATS
After years of using an inflatable camp mattress that was maybe an inch or so in thickness, I broke the piggy bank and bought my wife an Megamat Outfitter LXW last Christmas only to find out later that she really liked the soft to the touch feel of the Megamat 10 LXW.  I wanted to upgrade my camp mattress anyway and preferred the durability of the Outfitter version.  So win win.

We both have Megamat mats now and these are just the most luxurious camp sleeping experience I've ever had with almost four inches of foam goodness with a length and width that is so roomy. 

Don't like sleeping on the ground?  Well, you really can't say that until you've tried the EXPED Megamat.  It'll change your mind for sure. 

PAKMULE RIDGELINE
Though first designed for UTV's, the PAKMULE Ridgeline is the perfect fit for the Element with an 8" rise that creates the space needed for ground clearance and a side to side width that works just right for a small frame SUV.  It's 100% aluminum construction, TIG welding and zero wobble sets the PAKMULE apart of all other hitch baskets.

We've been using both the Ridgeline and Pakmule models on our vehicles for over a year now and they continue to be an essential piece of gear to increase (maybe double) packing capacity while also creating a perfect work space to cook or work off of with a cooler or gear box attached.

PAKMULE has set the bar high for what a hitch basket should be and they are worth every dollar.

P.S.  Kansas from PAKMULE took notes from the Ottolock gear review I did awhile back and now offers the PAKMULE Cinch Lock, which is great insurance that your coolers (and other gear) will stay where they are supposed to be while you're away.

Where are we headed next?  We're sticking close to home for the holidays but who knows where the Element will end up next.

PAKMULE - PAK It Up! Photo Contest

The folks at PAKMULE have kicked off something fun on Instagram that they are dubbing the PAK It Up! Photo Contest.  If you don't have a PAKMULE already, it's time you made the investment.  Ours is irreplaceable for everything outdoors and travel.

 

The rules are easy and all you need to do is post a photograph of your PAKMULE loaded down on Instagram tagging @pakmulegear and use the hashtag #PAKITUPCONTEST

There will be three winners who will walk away with $500, $250, and $150 credit to spend on the PAKMULE website.

The PAK It Up! Photo Contest ends at midnight on Sunday, September 25th.  Visit the website for details.

PAKMULE - Built for the Adventure Ahead

This past week my son and I attended the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition for the day and one of the highlights was meeting Kansas Sartin of PAKMULE.  He's making a great product that is completely changing expectations of what a hitch basket should be and we've been beyond impressed with our PAKMULE and PAKMULE Ridgeline carriers.  It's completely changed how we travel, organize and access our gear, coolers and luggage when on the road but even day to day as well.



Visit the PAKMULE website for more information and look for some additional products being added to the mix soon.  Follow along on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news.

2018 T.F.M. Father's Day Gift Gear Guide

If you're scratching your head on what to get that special father in your life, here's ten (additional links as well) solid gear suggestions to help you along. Maybe not all of these things can get to your doorstep by Sunday, but letting dad know it's on the way will sure to bring a smile and anticipation.

Here we go...

PAKMULE HITCH BASKET
If I've learned anything in traveling with our family of four over the year, it's that we quickly run out of space when packing for a trip.  It seems like every cubic interior inch of our vehicle is stashed with gear and the recent addition of the Pakmule hitch basket is giving us newfound space to ensure everything for the trip makes it along.

The Pakmule is made of 100% aluminum, no problem for one person to place on and off the hitch and is absolutely rock solid with zero wobble.  The tubular design of the basket makes it easy to lash or lock down coolers, gear and containers for the long haul.  The Pakmule sets a new standard in hitch baskets.

P.S. #1 Don't forget the MULEstraps which are U.S.A. made, sold in pairs and offered in 4', 8' and 12' lengths.

P.S. #2 Order Dad a couple OTTOLOCK Cinch Locks too as they work best in keeping items of value attached to the Pakmule.  Check out the T.F.M. review if you haven't already.

CAMP STOVES
When I finally gave up on my aging and malfunctioning dual fuel camp stove, I started messing around with three different stoves which all continue to be excellent in their own ways.

The Camp Chef Everest Camp Stove is the perfect camp two burner and I purchased the Mountain Series Aluminum Griddle which works great with it as well.  Follow up with the T.F.M. review for the full write up.

Of the three camp stoves mentioned in this review, Camp Chef has the longest list of offerings in their Mountain Series to choose from.  The Deluxe Outdoor Oven is on my own wish list for taking camp meals to the next level.

Over the last year the Eureka Spire XL has gotten a lot of T.F.M. love for a couple reasons.  First, it's a big stove and easily handles a ten inch cast iron pan and/or a large square griddle and second, the ability to add the Jetboil Luna Satellite Burner just makes this camp stove win in so many ways.  Follow reviews on the Spire XL as part of "10 For Spring" and the "T.F.M. Holiday Gift Guide".

Now through Father's Day Eureka is offering 25% off everything on their website along with free shipping.  Doing the math, you can get the Spire XL (or the smaller Spire) with the Luna Satellite Burner for the price of either stove not on sale.

The Primus Kinjia Stove is the smallest camp stove in this line up but continues to be a favorite for it's simplicity and well thought out design.  This stove features excellent heat control of it's 7,000 BTU/h burners, removable griddle and angled stainless steel drip tray make after meal clean up easy.  More on the Kinjia Stove as part of "10 For Fall" from a few seasons ago. 

Now through Father's Day, enter PRIMUSDAD20 at checkout for 20% off your order and free shipping.

P.S.  Looking for the perfect cast iron skillet for both camp and home?  Check out the Smithey Ironware.  Use code "DAD" for a free Chain Mail Scrubber with purchase of any skillet.  Past T.F.M. reviews and mentions HERE, HERE and HERE.

MAVEN BINOCULARS
I am working on full length gear reviews of the custom B.1 binoculars that I purchased this spring and C.1 binoculars that I have been demoing lately but the short of it is that whether you're looking at size, the ability to build your own custom or stock binoculars, Maven has you covered. 

As over the top excited as I am about the custom B.1's that I had built, the C.1 binoculars are a solid choice and a great size.  Not too big and yet not a small pair of binoculars either.  The C.1 series are offered in three magnifications of 8X42, 10X42 and 12X42 and priced at from $325 to 375.

Now through Sunday, use code FATHERSDAY-2018 for $50 off the C.1 binoculars and if you order by June 13, Maven will make sure they are at your doorstep by Father's Day at no extra shipping charge.

More on Maven binoculars in the "10 For Spring" from a couple years ago.

FILSON - EVERY FATHER NEEDS SOME IN THEIR LIFE
I've been into Filson for years (actually a couple decades) before Filson was hipster cool.  As a early twenty-something I walked into a fly shop in Grayling, Michigan and bought a Tin Cloth Packer Hat which I wore until it just got too funky from years of sweat and abuse.  I replaced it with another (one size larger) that is still a favorite and wear on cool wet weather days.     

The Filson offerings are ever expanding and the many briefcases (circle back for a future review) and luggage choices always have my attention.  The Heritage Sportsman Bag is a long time favorite which doubles as a toss in everything gear bag or quick pack overnight carry bag.   The mix of Twill and Wax Tin Cloth with Bridle Leather mean this one will be forever lasting.

The Ballistic Nylon Bags are a more recent offering from Filson and feature a lightweight yet highly durable woven nylon which they are using to build everything from briefcases to rolling luggage.  The Duffle Pack (paired with the Travel Pack) is the perfect multi-night carry option for travel and  the ability to carry over the shoulder or with tuck away backpack straps give great choices.  This is the go anywhere and do everything duffle pack that dad needs.

The Ballistic Nylon Field Pack is a new piece that we've been using this spring and Finn has already called it for his school backpack next year.  It's not showing up on the Filson website any longer but you can still find it at your local dealer or online.  

FIREDISC COOKERS
When the FireDisc Deep 36-Inch Tall Portable Cooker arrived, I wasn't sure what we'd try making first.  Fast forward a few months and we've done everything from kettle fries, cut fries, bluegill fillets, rice dishes, saute meats and even camp funnel cakes.  It does it all and has become a favorite outdoor cooker with our family and church youth group on camp outs.

The FireDisc Cookers are offered in either skillet or deep and in two heights.  I like the deep, especially when working with oil, and the tall height so I'm closer to what I am cooking.  The benefit to this cook system is that is breaks down into three parts for ease of packing and travel.  The angled bowl keeps oil and grease in the center while three heat zones allow for several cooking areas of different temperatures from the middle to edges of the 22" inch cooking surface.  Over time a seasoning effect takes place creating a non-stick and added flavor to foods much like your favorite cast iron pan. 

FireDisc Cookers is always running giveaways and specials and it's a good idea to sign up for updates on their website along with following them on Facebook.  Already have one?  Consider joining the FireDisc Cookers Owners Group.

FISHPOND THUNDERHEAD SUBMERSIBLE BACKPACK & DUFFEL

I travel a fair bit and packing my clothes and gear for a week (or longer) for an airplane trip somewhere that may require an over the water transfer has had me thinking that waterproof luggage is the answer.  Heck, I had my entire suitcase drenched from a downpour in a luggage cart sitting on the tarmac a couple years ago so  you don't have been going someplace exotic to end up soaked.  It's not a great way to start a trip and lately have been using the Fishpond Thunderhead Duffel and Backpack with great satisfaction.    

When the Thunderhead Submersible Duffel arrived I wasn't so sure of the size.  At first glance it fell into not being that small but wasn't so sure that it was large enough for most trips.  After a seven day trip to Louisiana and a five day trip to Belize, I'm more than impressed by the capacity for it to hold clothing and gear with some room to spare.  It's deceptively large and waterproof as they come.  It's so far held up great to the abuse of baggage handlers, conveyor belts and checked baggage carousels.  It's gained some "character marks" but still as water tight as ever.

I've only done one trip so far with the Thunderhead Submersible Backpack but it hits all the high points for being rock solid built, completely waterproof with a TIZIP zipper, cavernous cargo space, well thought interior pockets, comfortable pack straps and (serious high points here) removable hip belt.

The Thunderhead Duffel and Backpack are my new one-two punch when traveling home and abroad. 

 WOODY HANDMADE KNIVES

 Several years ago I started a small knife collection and came across Woody Handmade Knives early in my search.  I liked his story, that he was just upstate from where I live and the quality of his work is excellent.  I'm a big fan of the Drury Fillet Knife (see previous posts HERE, HERE and HERE) and last year Frank Bridwell sent a knife that he described as a kind of do all knife perfect for everything from oysters to outside chores. 

Woody Handmade Knives is a neat story (check out the video on how his knives are made) and any father should find a knife of their liking on his website.  There are also options for custom work as well.

YETI HOPPER FLIP 18 & SIDEKICK DRY

I am a big fan of YETI products, along with what they do for and with the fly fishing industry, and have used and covered the Hopper (HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE) soft coolers extensively through the years.  Nothing against the hard coolers, the Hoppers just tend to get used more around here. 

My new favorite (previously the Hopper Flip 12) is the Hopper Flip 18 since it's the perfect size for family day trips or multi-day solo trips and it has the added benefit of being just the right size for stacking a couple hot plate casseroles for church potluck keeping them ready to serve for hours after they came out of the oven. 

A new addition to the YETI line up is the Sidekick Dry which a waterproof gear pocket and the perfect addition to any Hopper soft cooler.  Wallet, mobile phone and anything else is completely safe in this water tight pack. 

SADDLEBACK LEATHER CO. NOTEBOOK HOLDER & VALET TRAY

I've got a good friend that over the last several years has completely nerded out on leather gear of all sorts and I've been fortunate to be gifted two items from the Saddleback Leather Co. that I use every day with first being a small Notebook Holder and then last Christmas, the Valet Tray.

The small Notebook Holder is perfect for work as I'm able to keep a 5"X8" note pad inside with a few other essential placed in the interior pockets.  Offered in four leather color choices, the Notebook Holder features a single piece of leather on the outside and both riveted and sewn for strength and durability.  I've been carrying mine for several years now and the only change in it is that the leather has taken on a darker shade.

The Valet Tray is that one thing that I didn't know that I needed until I had it as it holds my nightly pocket dump keeping everything all in one place.  Also available in four leather color choices with riveted corners, I expect that this will be a piece that will last several forevers.  

GIVE THE GIFT OF GLASS 

No gear guide is complete without a reminder that the "Gift of Glass" is an excellent choice for dad.  Almost ten years ago I started typing on this blog and at that point there was maybe a dozen choices for fiberglass fly rods.  Fast forward to the present and the number is pushing one hundred with everything from pro hobby builders to small shop magicians to most of your favorite fly rod companies all offering something in fiberglass.  It's a grand time to be a fiberglass flyrodder.

Spend some time on the Fiberglass Rod Shops page and if you have any questions, or need suggestions, please feel free to send me an email at thefiberglassmanifesto@gmail.com.

Okay, that's a wrap with ten solid suggestions for Father's Day.  What's dad getting this Sunday?

PAKMULE - Destroying a Cargo Hitch Carrier with a Rock!

What's the over-under on beers involved in the making of the latest Pakmule sturdy testing of their cargo hitch carrier?  My guess is a few more than one...



There are quite a few T.F.M. posts which highlight the Pakmule cargo hitch carriers.  Search "Pakmule" in the search box on the bottom right corner of the page. 

I'm a huge fan of Pakmule and it's certainly a "Buy Once, Cry Once" investment.  Use code "FLYFISHING" for a pair of complimentary MULEstraps with your purchase.

PAKMULE - Introducing the Scout Riser

A quick search on T.F.M. (scroll down to the search box on the right side of the page) will reveal is a long list of links to PAKMULE on all the adventures we've taken over the years with our Pro Original and Pro Ridgeline hitch carriers.  They are an absolute must for our vehicles for travel and in constant use on our hopped up golf cart when we had it as well for chores on our property.  

The PAKMULE family of hitch carriers is growing this week with the addition of the Scout Riser, which is available in a 4" and 7" riser hitch tongues.  The Scout carrier is also available with a straight hitch to help you figure out the best fit for your vehicle or UTV.

Visit the PAKMULE to check it out and get best fit recommendations.  Remember to use code "FLYFISHING" if purchasing online for a free set of 6' MULEstraps.  Every little bit helps with this "Buy Once, Cry Once" purchase.

PAKMULE - Black Friday Sale Turned on Now

It seems like Black Friday sales start earlier and earlier each year but this one from PAKMULE is worth sharing with savings up to 20%.  This is a "Buy Once. Cry Once" purchase for one of their rock solid cargo carriers and even 10% is a nice savi.  

 

A search on T.F.M. will take you to a dozen or more posts where I've reviewed our PAKMULE cargo carriers and I can't imagine road trips without one.  One of the back of our Outback Wilderness has been essential to extend what we can carry on a trip and it's always handy to have our coolers locked down outside for easy access.

If you've been thinking about a PAKMULE, now is the time to get it ordered.  I'm happy to answer any questions about our experience with an email. 

THE ROAD TO 300K - Cheap Thrills on Deep Creek

Friday morning as I was weaving through the mountain valleys on Interstate 40 between Tennessee and North Carolina, our 2004 Honda Element reached another milestone striking 296,000 miles. It's always a good feeling when this happens while on a family adventure day and we were headed to meet friends in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Deep Creek.

Lodging and the groceries keeping a pile of teenagers fed aside, a day spent tubing on Deep Creek is cheap thrills and a stellar way to beat the summer heat. This has become a part of our summer for the past few years and this year we made a weekend out of it, even though I had to leave early to head back home for work on Saturday.

Arrive early and avoid the weekend if possible if Deep Creek is in our summer plans as we kinda had the place to ourselves for the first couple hours of Friday morning but by afternoon the place was packed.  Our daughter went back with her friends on Saturday afternoon and said it felt like bumper cars.  So, pick a weekday and go early to make the most of it.

There are several places that you can rent tubes locally on your way into Deep Creek and a day rental is only $4-6 for each tube.  Oh, and there isn't a park cost to access the parking lot area either.  Cheap and free is always good.

You're going to get your steps in with a little less than a mile hike up the creek path with your tube.  The water feels great once you're in and aside from a handful of rapids where you can get dumped, it's overall a refreshing ride down the creek.

For whatever reason on this summer's trip, half the adults in our group limped away with injuries that ranged from scrapes, bruises, and one dad taking a trip to the ER with a shoulder sprain.   Maybe we're getting old.  I don't know.  I will say that there is usually a little more flow which can certainly affect the ride.  Yeah, I think we'll blame it on that...

By late afternoon it was time to head to our cabin and unwind.  I ended up driving home on Saturday morning with our son and my wife and daughter stayed until Sunday.  It was a fun weekend getaway and we'll likely be back next summer.

GEAR NOTES
This was a quickie trip but still good testing ground for a few items of noteworthy gear.  Here are a few things that made our trip better...

ASTRAL BREWER 2.0 WATER SHOES
I've been wearing a pair of Brewer's for a couple of summers now and in my mind, they are the ultimate water shoe.  Lightweight, quick-drying with a G15 rubber shoe that is super grippy on rocks.  I use them for wet wading, creek play, and anytime I want to keep my feet protected around water.  A water shoe has advantages over a sandal if nothing else to keep rocks from getting underfoot while walking.

JACKERY EXPLORER 500 PORTABLE POWER STATION
I've been looking at the portable power sources for a while now and Jackery was running a $100 off promo (which I think they still are) on the Explorer 500 which seemed like the right time to buy it.  We've used it on several local trips to charge up mobile phones and this was the first time using it to power the Traeger grill.  I ran the grill for about an hour along with charging two iPhones to nearly full battery strength and it was still at 95% charge.  This is going to come in especially handy in the fall on some back to back weekend car camping trips with our family and friends.

HOWLER BROTHERS LOGGERHEAD HOODIE
I'm a total sucker for sun shirts (I have ZERO ability to suntan) and when Howler Brothers recently re-released the Loggerhead shirt as a hoodie, I immediately placed an order. 

The fit, feel and function of these shirts are perfect in every way.  There are four colorways to choose from and remember that you can use code "TFM2020" for a 20% discount on your order.  I'm likely going to order another one this week.

PAKMULE ORIGINAL & RIDGELINE
Since it was likely that I'd be returning home on Saturday due to work obligations, we ended up driving both of our SUV's on this trip, and with a PAKMULE on the back of each, we doubled our space for gear.  We also picked up our children, who had been up in Michigan for a month. from my parents who met us halfway in Tennessee and we needed the extra space for suitcases, gear, and golf clubs.

I've said it several times before but we continue to be impressed with our PAKMULE cargo carriers and having the option of different models to fit different vehicles is a huge advantage in getting the right fit for your vehicle.  These really aren't one size fits all and with three models to choose from, you can get it right.

PAKMULE has set the bar high for what a hitch basket should be and they are worth every dollar.  If you're interested in placing an order and have questions, send me an email.  Otherwise, Let Kansas know that TFM sent you and use online code "flyfishing" for a free set of 6' MULEstraps.

TRAEGER RANGER PELLET GRILL
For over a year now I've been grilling and cooking on a Traeger PRO 575 and more recently on the Ranger and though both deserve a full gear review write up, I can tell you that I continue to be beyond impressed by both.

The Ranger is a great addition to a full-sized grill and allows you to do two things at once for big meals at the house.  The Ranger is also proving to be a great road trip and camp grill and has upped the possibilities of our tailgate kitchen.

If you have questions about Traeger grills let me know and if interested in purchasing one of your own, I usually have some promo codes around for a discount on online orders.

YETI TUNDRA 45 COOLER
It's hard to believe that the Tundra cooler has been around for over ten years now and it without a doubt created a new "premium" category within the cooler space.

Years ago, I used to be able to order YETI coolers with The Fiberglass Manifesto inked into the lid top.  Since I could buy them at wholesale for myself, I ended up with a Tundra 35, Tundra 45, and Tundra 65 figuring that I'd have all the bases covered for our own use.

Fast forward and I can tell you that over the years, our Tundra 45 is the cooler that we use most often.  It's big enough without being too big.  On this trip, we filled one Tundra 45 with our lunch and drinks for the day and kept the second Tundra 45 locked up with Friday night's dinner, Saturday morning breakfast, and Saturday night dinner.

The miles keeping ticking on our Honda Element and it won't be too long before the next "The Road to 300K" post.  You can circle back to past posts in this series HERE, HERE, and HERE.