MODERATION.  A cooldown settles over the region as recent warm temps give way to a cooler stretch, in the low 80s.  We cover what the recent rains have meant in terms of the drought and wildlife recruitment along with some changes on the conservation organization front and get a few tips for new smallie baits in today’s Outdoors Roundup.

Featured Photo:  A northern leopard frog cools off in the creekwater. Simonson Photo.

 
WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today:  Sun 7/26 – Pleasant – Hi 80, Lo 60, Wind N@13, G23
Tomorrow:  Mon 7/27 – Similar – Hi 80, Lo 58, Wind NW@10, G20

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):

Sunrise           Sunset
6:16AM           9:22PM

Moonrise         Moonset          Overhead     Underfoot
1:22PM           12:25AM         7:12PM            6:47AM
Moon Phase:  Waxing Crescent (27% Full)

EDGE HOUR:  6:00-7:00 AM.  Sunrise with moon underfoot and light winds will help start the day off with a bite in our Edge Hour.
DAY RATING:

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP:

POCKETS.  The newest UNL drought monitor shows pockets of solid improvement in the state over the western two thirds, but an area in south central ND remains parched. With solid rainfall during the last three weeks, cover and conditions have improved most everywhere, fostering solid upland chick growth in early reports.

UNITY.  The Quality Deer Management Association and National Deer Alliance will be merging into one organization in the near future in hopes of presenting a more unified approach to conservation and hunting issues for all deer hunters.  More information on the move can be found at QDMA.com.

BAITS FOR BITES.  BASS Pro John Crews shares his top three smallmouth baits for summertime bronzebacks.  Soft plastics, prop baits and the Ned rig lead the list in this great video from Bassmaster.