GET IT STARTED.  We’re already eyeing up the weekend and thinking fishing as temperatures dip down a bit.  Speaking of eyes, the National Walleye Trail kicks off today in South Dakota.  We’ve got more on that, how not to lose a jumping fish and another friendly deer reminder in our Outdoors Roundup.

Featured Photo:  GO FOR IT!  A gopher finds some a dandelion seed snack. Simonson Photo.

WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today: Thu 5/28 – Getting Gusty – Hi 70, Lo 50, Wind NW@18, G30
Tomorrow: Fri 5/29 – Calm & Cooler – Hi 68, Lo 44, Wind N@6

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):

Sunrise        Sunset
5:54AM        9:26PM

Moonrise         Moonset        Overhead      Underfoot
11:22AM         1:59AM           7:04PM            6:37AM

 
Moon Phase:  Waxing Crescent (32% Full)

EDGE HOUR:  6:00-7:00AM.  The day’s lightest winds, sunrise and moon underfoot combine to kick off the day with your Edge Hour.

DAY RATING:

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP:

FISH ON!  The start of the National Walleye Trail tournament series, delayed from earlier this spring, will kick off on Lake Francis Case in Chamberlain, S.D. today, and run through Friday.  More information on the series and the event can be found at nationalwalleyetour.com.

FISH OFF.  Fish are most likely to get off the line when they take to the air, but preparing for the acrobatics of jumping fish like bass, pike and muskies helps keep them under control and keep the hook in place.  To help prevent losing fish on a jump, lower the rod – a tactic called “bowing” – and then quickly tighten up any slack on the splashdown and resume the fight.  This prevents line stretch and yo-yoing which lets fish loose.

SIGN UP.  Did you know the ND firearms season deer lottery application deadline is June 3?  Of course you did, you read this blog daily!  Good.  Just making sure.  Have an awesome day and may the big game gods smile upon your digital submission this summer.