We here at Big Sky Canvas care about our customers safety while out on the water. Here are a few tips to keep you, your family and friends safe. Always wear a right-sized, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.According to the U.S coast card in 2016 life jackets could've saved the lives of over 80 percent of boating fatality victims. Defend against propeller strikes. Make sure all passengers are accounted for before starting the engine and wear your emergency cut-off switch at all times. Carry safety gear on board. On top of life jackets for all, stock a wide-ranging first-aid kit, a tool kit, a horn or whistle, flares and a fire extinguisher at Don’t boat under the influence (BUI). According to the USCG, alcohol plays a...
Our love of the outdoors can bring us into contact will all sorts of unpleasant organisms, though few are as widespread as the tick. These vampiric arachnids can be found across the globe, and many are responsible for transmitting disease. Ticks have been documented transmitting a wide range of protozoan, bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens to humans, pets, and livestock. And while there are roughly 80 different tick species that can be found in the continental United States (and over 800 found worldwide), there are ten species that really stand out. With tick season right around the corner in most areas, we hope this tick-identification gallery will help you limit your risk and teach you a little more about these complex and creepy creatures....
Choosing a favorite river in Montana is like having to choose your favorite child. However, in this case you have dozens of famous rivers, and maybe hundreds of smaller streams and creeks, which in many ways are as good as or better than their famous bigger siblings. To make a list of the top 10 rivers to fish in Montana, many wonderful waters will be left off the list. So for us to say these are the “top,” we’re simply saying that on any given day, you will be almost guaranteed the experience of a lifetime on one of these ten Montana waters. In no particular order. MISSOURI RIVER The longest river in North America, the Missouri, called The Mo...
Wildlife observation continues to be a highlight of camping trips. From birds to rabbits, reptiles to white-tailed deer, various wildlife species offer an abundant supply of natural entertainment. Observing wildlife in its natural environment can be pleasing in many ways, which normally becomes a highlight of a springtime camping or hiking excursion. Wildlife and human interactions can be a positive experience for both — if common sense, respect and space are kept between animal and observer. If the goal of the outing is to observe wildlife as close as possible, then being aware of a few facts will create less stress for the wild ones. When children are included, and hopefully they are, the experience can be even more rewarding as long...
With of the bear attacks that went on last year, the Big Sky Canvas Team wants all of our customers and their friends and family to be safe while exploring bear country. If you’re fishing, camping or hiking in the woods of North America – predominantly Canada, Alaska, Wyoming Washington, Idaho, the Dakotas or Montana it’s possible you could come across a large bear. We have put together a few recommendations for our hunters and hikers on what to do when on an outdoor pursuit in Bear Country. Make Noise. When entering bear country, you should be sure to make noise to alert them to your presence. Talking, clapping or singing aloud could help remove any doubt about your intentions. Do not...