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Show Outdoor Wisdom Christmas shopping for the outdoorsman-woman? I'm going to avoid the usual temptation to suggest gifts. Let me just point out some of the easier things to select, whether you happened happen-ed to be a fishing-hunting-camping enthusiast yourself. First, avoid such things as tapered leaders and fly patterns unless you know precisely what he prefers. Anglers are fussy about such matters, and ji st any old leader or artificial won't do. If in doubt, buy a landing net, creel (many fishermen like a wicker basket for stream fishing, tackle box for the boat, and a canvas creel for backpacking), wool socks, or basics. Of course, speciality shops can make other suggestions with books, art pieces, fly 0 fishing vests et al. Camping items for the entire family are popular: food chests, coolers, water or hot beverage jugs, camp stoves, backpacker stoves, tents, sleeping bags. I've personally picked up some of my best camping equipment by perusing a Coleman Co. catalogue. Thes'e can excite even the youngsters, especially espec-ially if it implies an overnight outing promise, a gift of time with the kids. I can't think of any better present for any family. This is the time of year to pour over maps and make plans for next summer, too. Fow a few dollars you can obtain maps from the U.S. Geological Survey, Forest Service, or other public agency, planning strategy to some lake or natural area. Even a simple road map can also offer hours of fun for everyone. Consider a subscription to . in outdoor magazine for the usband, brother, father, or ne woman in your life. You ( an get the address from that i lagazine now on the news-i news-i mds. For the hunter, a major gift might be a pair of binoculars. That present will also thrill a football or sports fan. I'd make them at least 7-power. In addition, there are caps and gloves, coats, thermals, all types of warm clothing. For bowmen, visit an archery shop and talk to the experts themselves. There are many new itms on the market in this realm, and you want to avail yourself of the latest. In the higher price categories, cate-gories, you may want to change the winter doldrums with a pair of either alpine (regular) or lighter crosscountry cross-country skis. Poles, boots, bindings, may need replacement. replace-ment. The snowmobile has also changed the winter doldrums for some into a time of high adventure, and farmers-ranchers or those with outdoor work have come to use them as replacement for ole Dobbin. How about getting someone some-one started ice skating? Make sure of a snug fit. If you want to hike around this winter, try snow shoes! That plus a camera can start someone on a whole new outlook on life. Add a backpack or at least day pack, and you can remain in condition until resuming the summertime activities. In the world of books, new ones out are Dave Hall's "Hiker's Guide to Utah," the "Fishes of Utah" available avail-able from the Division of Wildlife Resources, and more on almost any subject. Mel Davis at Wasatch Publishers has a vast array of guide books, including such titles as "Cache Trails," the "High Uinta Trails," etc. You might also consider something parents often overlook for their boys: a handbook outlining steps to Eagle Scout, BSA. These are often carried by Penny's and other department stores, along with the official uniforms uni-forms and equipment. These ideas might help add variety to the usual tie or handkerchief Christmas. You could even experience as much joy in purchasing them as the recipient come December 25. |