EYES TO THE SKIES.  While we’re a month off from the first hunting season, you’ll want to watch the weather today, as the NWS has some warnings of severe storms likely for the afternoon and evening, particularly in the eastern two-thirds of North Dakota.  In the meantime we’ve got updates on archery events, good cooking and where to find big summer smallies in our Outdoors Roundup.

Featured Photo:  UNDER THE SURFACE.  The silhouette of a smallmouth bass boiling after being hooked in the shallows. Simonson Photo.

 
WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today: Fri 7/17 – Sultry w. Storms – Hi 94, Lo 61, Wind S@15, G25
Tomorrow: Sat 7/18 – Cooler & Cloudy – Hi 80, Lo 55, Wind NW@11, G22

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):

Sunrise           Sunset
6:06AM           9:31PM

Moonrise         Moonset          Overhead       Underfoot
3:15AM           7:09PM           11:08AM            11:34PM

 
Moon Phase:  Waning Crescent (11% Full)

EDGE HOUR:   10:30-11:30AM.  Moon overhead before the serious storms fire up will be be your best bet today.  Get off the water when you start to see clouds building!

 
DAY RATING:

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP:

VIRTUAL VINO.  Pheasants Forever announces a virtual Wine, Women & Wild Game cooking program with chef Danielle Prewett, celebrating wild game preparation and cooking along with conservation and the importance of habitat in the full-circle locavore lifestyle.  Tickets are $40 and come with a membership to the organization.

SCHEELS SHOOT.  The North Dakota Bowhunters Association has information on the upcoming Scheels 3D Archery Shoot in Minot next weekend.  The two-day event has multiple competitions across a number of age groups for those archers looking to test their skills against the best in the state.

SMALLIE SPACES.  BASS pro Cory Johnston details his favorite features for big bronzebacks on large flows.  From drops to big rocks, the tournament angler shares his insights with Bassmaster.com on how to catch more smallmouth bass.