Lake La Su An and the one that got away
Looking for giant bluegills and aggressive largemouth bass? Former wildlife officer Jim Abrams shares humorous angling tales from northwest Ohio's Lake La Su An Wildlife Area, along with the specific rules, limits, and season dates you need to know before planning your next trip.
Choosing fly fishing over golf did not save me any money
Former wildlife officer Jim Abrams looks back at his decision to skip golf and take up fly fishing instead. Inspired by Bing Crosby, a winter trip to an East Palestine sports shop started a lifelong passion that proved a "simple" rural hobby can still empty your wallet.
Ohio releases 2026 sandhill crane count results
Volunteer observers reported 344 sandhill cranes in Ohio during the 2026 Midwest Crane Count, below last year's count and the three-year average.
Friend or farm foe? Balancing groundhog benefits and damage
Whether you call them groundhogs, woodchucks or whistle-pigs, these critters have a mixed reputation. While their burrows threaten farm pastures and foundations, they also aerate soil and create wildlife habitats. Retired wildlife officer Jim Abrams weighs the pros and cons.
From sonar to apps: Fishing tech at the fingertips
Technology has revolutionized fishing. From advanced sonar fish finders to Ohio's interactive digital tools like the DataOhio Portal and HuntFish OH app, anglers can now use data-driven insights to map out their next successful trip and locate the state's best fishing spots.
The best fishing partners have a wagging tail —and a closed mouth
From learning when to keep his "beak shut" about secret honey holes to mastering the classic fish story, Jim Abrams reflects on a lifetime of angling. Discover why human partners often talk too much, and why a loyal dog makes the ultimate, trustworthy fishing companion.
Leaving the best flies behind
A fly-fishing trip to Michigan's Au Sable River brings humor, lost lures, and a deeper reflection on a late friend. Angler Jim Abrams shares a moving essay on the "best flies" left behind in trees and trout streams, and the holy waters of the Manistee River where memories endure.
Ohio Wildlife Council approves 2026-27 hunting seasons
The Ohio Wildlife Council approved 2026-27 hunting and trapping seasons for white-tailed deer, small game, migratory birds and furbearers.
Predation: Explaining the Big Bad Wolf
From lions and wolves to hawks and deer, predation plays a vital role in wildlife ecology. Outdoors columnist Jim Abrams explores predators, prey and the ever-changing balance of nature.
The thin green line: Remembering the life and legacy of Peggy Park
Retired wildlife officer Jim Abrams honors Margaret "Peggy" Park, an Ohio State grad and trailblazer for women in law enforcement. Explore the story of her tragic sacrifice in the line of duty and how her courage continues to shape wildlife officer training and conservation across the nation.
