OUTDOOR BRIEFS

IT'S THE SEASON

Give an annual license to outdoors fan

While wrapping up their holiday shopping this year, Nevadans looking for those last minute gifts may want to consider the gift that gives of the outdoors and to the outdoors at the same time. This gift gives to the outdoors by providing funding necessary for Nevada's wildlife and fisheries management programs. It gives of the outdoors by providing the opportunity for recipients to go fishing or hunting in the Silver State. The gift is an annual fishing or hunting license.

"These are even good gifts for people who care about Nevada's wildlife, but who choose not to fish or hunt. This is the means for them to make an investment in the future of our wildlife resources. Of course, for those who do fish and hunt, the license is a terrific gift idea," said Martin Olson, hunter education coordinator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

The person whose name will appear on the license has to complete the actual purchase, so one way to give a fishing, hunting or combination hunting-fishing license is to provide the recipient with a gift card to their favorite sporting goods store. Another option is to simply give them the financial means to do so.

Information on licenses, stamps and associated fees can be found online at www.ndow.org or by calling one of the NDOW offices in Elko, Henderson, Las Vegas or Reno.

MANY CONSIDERATIONS

Keep things in mind when giving firearm

For many outdoor enthusiasts, a popular holiday gift is a new rifle or shotgun. And though buying a firearm may seem a simple endeavor, there are a few things shoppers should keep in mind before laying down their hard-earned cash.

A good place to start is with a list of possible uses for that new firearm.

"It's always a good idea to consider just how the intended recipient might use the rifle or shotgun," said Doug Nielsen, a Conservation Educator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife. "Will it be used for hunting, target shooting or both? Is the intended recipient a collector?"

If hunting will be the firearm's primary use, you certainly must consider the type of game animals the recipient will probably hunt with it. Other considerations include the experience and comfort level of the shooter. Their physical size and strength also should be taken into account when selecting a firearm. The same is true for any physical limitations.

"One of the most common mistakes experienced shooters make is giving an entry-level shooter too much gun. This can lead to frustration on the new shooter's part, because they can have difficultly shooting the firearm accurately and even develop a fear of the gun," said Nielsen.

A person's experience with firearms is among the most crucial factors to consider. A good way to determine what the recipient knows about shooting is to take them to a shooting range that offers rental equipment. They will be able to try different calibers and models while getting a feel of what fits best.

Once you have chosen the right caliber and size for the shooter, it is time to start researching different firearms dealers. Price, convenience and dependability should be considered when searching for a place to buy. Some dealers will offer a beginner class, but oftentimes the beginning shooter is more comfortable in a one-on-one situation.

Shotguns for upland game and migratory bird hunting are a bit easier to decide upon. Selecting the proper gauge size for an individual can be as simple as starting small and moving upward. Most modern shotguns come with a variety of chokes that can be adjusted or changed out so the shooter can match the shot pattern to the intended target. There are also youth versions of shotguns that have a shorter stock to fit a young person or small adult comfortably. And for young hunters or first time shooters, a course in hunter education makes for an excellent start, covering ethics and firearm handling.