Tag: #David Zumbaugh

Outdoor Communicators find Art & Open-Air Adventure in Lindsborg, Kansas

Posted on by Dave Barus
  • The unique Swedish heritage of Lindsborg is evident in architecture, cuisine, and traditions. 
  • Hunts for whitetail deer, bison, turkey, and other species are offered at Kansas Trophy Whitetails, near Hudson, KS.
  • Megan Hilbish calling turkeys. Jon Blumb photo

    Year-round hunting and fishing abound with much public land and water. 

  • Birders, hikers, bikers, paddlers and beachgoers will find top-notch fun here.

by David Zumbaugh

The Outdoor Communicators of Kansas discovered Lindsborg as the home base for the spring conference on May 4- 6, 2025. “Välkommen till Lindsborg” is the city motto and welcome us they did! The unique Swedish heritage of the small town, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions, was a delightful surprise. This tight-knit community promotes the art scene with small and large galleries, including the Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery.

Lindsborg hosts several large festivals that celebrate its culture, art, and local businesses. The city’s website and Facebook page provide detailed descriptions of events, along with the dates for planning a visit. OCK was hosted for dinner by Holly Lofton, Director of the Convention and Visitors Bureau, at the wonderful Sundstrom Conference Center (https://www.lindsborgcity.org/visitor-information).

Downtown Lindborg, Kansas. Jon Blumb photo
Jim Richardson, a National Geographic Photographer. Jon Blumb photo

A craft improvement seminar inspired the group to focus on taking enhanced pictures with cell phones. Jim Richardson, a National Geographic photographer, detailed settings on the camera mode on Apple and Android devices to get creative, professional results. He displayed images side by side on a big screen, comparing phone pictures with photos taken with the most expensive cameras. Differences could hardly be noticed! Jim and his wife, Kathy, run the Small World Gallery at 127 North Main Street, which features his work (www.smallworldgallery.net).

The magnificent Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery is worth a visit. Sandzén was born in Sweden in 1871 and studied art in Stockholm. He came to the USA in 1894 to teach at Bethany College in Lindsborg as the principal art instructor. He produced more than 3,000 paintings and 33,000 prints. His works are on display at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City, Missouri; the Brooklyn Museum of Art; the Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe; the Library of Congress; the Chicago Art Institute; the Denver Art Museum; the Philadelphia Museum of Art; and the National Museum of Stockholm.

Art Center Gallery. Jon Blumb photo

Mike Hartung is currently an active artist of Lindsborg known for his provocative and pointed satirical pieces. He creates giant-format paintings, produced in vivid colors with distorted figures to convey not-so-subtle government tributes. No politician, global or local, is safe from his commentary.  Mike has established the Smoky Valley Arts & Folklife Center, a gallery and workshop at 114-1/2 South Main Street. Current exhibition and workshop information can be viewed on their website (www.smokyvalleyartsandfolklifecenter.org).

David Zumbaugh with his turkey. Photo by Cody Waite

The next several days found members fishing in the area waters, such as Kanapolis Lake. Unfortunately, even the liars couldn’t get many fish to the net. Others spent time trying to outsmart wily prairie turkeys, with only one put in the bag (by yours truly, with the help of guide Cody Waite). Calling from a high blind, other hunters observed many turkeys and deer, but were unable to get a close enough shot on a gobbler.

Highlighting the get-together was the lodging and hospitality offered by Stan Christiansen and his Kansas Trophy Whitetails operation, near Hudson, Kansas. Stan himself is an accomplished hunter and fisherman, having numerous world record animals from Africa and around the globe. Hunts for whitetail deer, bison, turkey, and other species are offered. Many Pope and Young, as well as Boone and Crockett-class, deer have been harvested on the lodge property (www.kansas-trophy-whitetails.com).

Central Kansas offers amenities that are attractive to all outdoor enthusiasts. Year-round hunting and fishing opportunities abound with much public land and water to explore.  But birders, hikers, bikers, and paddlers can also find top-notch offers.

Trophy Room at Kansas Trophy Whitetails. David Zumbaugh photo

From birding hotspots like Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge to the miles of mountain bike and hiking trails at Wilson Lake, Kansas is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Kanapolis and Wilson Lakes have great waters for paddleboarders, kayakers, and beachgoers.

Plan a visit to Kansas to satisfy your outdoor passions.

You will be glad you made the trip.

For more information, visit: https://www.lindsborgcity.org/visitor-information; https://ksoutdoors.com/; https://travelkansas.com; www.kansas-trophy-whitetails.com; www.smokyvalleyartsandfolklifecenter.org; www.smallworldgallery.net.

Can Pheasants Be Forever?

Posted on by Dave Barus
  • Pheasants Forever is expanding public upland habitats, empowering grassroots chapters, supporting private landowners, and engaging women and youth hunters. 
  • Learn about Pheasants Forever – their periodicals: Pheasant Journal, the Quail Journal – check them out.
  • At the annual 2025 Pheasant Fest EXPO, more than 23,000 attended. Share the force of support with others!
Kate Ahnstrom, Syren Shotgun Pro, demonstrates proper shotgun fit with youth attendees at the 2025 Kansas Pheasant Fest event. David Gray photo

By David Zumbaugh

Yes! With your help. Pheasants Forever is a U.S.-based non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and enhancement of pheasant, quail, and other wildlife habitats through habitat improvements, public access, education, and advocacy. Founded in 1982 in response to the declining pheasant populations and loss of grassland habitat across the Midwest, PF boasts 480,000 members in 40 states and Canada. PF is a 501(c)(3) tax entity, so it must operate exclusively for charitable, scientific, literary, educational, or other purposes that benefit the public. PF justifiably meets all these criteria.

Pheasants Forever is a grassroots, boots-on-the-ground, volunteer, membership-based organization. Most members are avid upland bird hunters, but landowners interested in improving the natural balance on their properties, conservationists, and wildlife enthusiasts are also proud supporters.

DVM Clairissa Maples with youth raffle winners of Canine Field First Aid Kit at Pheassant Fest 2025. David Gray photo

PF’s impact is tangible and inspiring. With biologists on staff from many states, PF educates rural landowners about federal and state conservation programs and assists them with the application process to improve habitat. PF directly purchases land to permanently protect select acres for upland wildlife while advocating other areas for public hunting. While the measured success is evident in the new public access for nearly 200,000 acres for bird hunting or outdoor recreation, PF has impacted millions of acres of wildlife habitat across the U.S. through restoration, enhancement, and protection projects.

One example is “Corners for Wildlife”. The Kansas Corners for Wildlife Program in NW Kansas offers farmers and ranchers the opportunity to improve financial results and recover wildlife habitat by providing five years of annual rental payments for planting acres with an approved conservation cover mix. Specifically targeted are the corners of center pivot irrigation systems, but other buffer areas, field borders, waterways, and edge ground are also considered. Initiated through a partnership with the Ringneck Classic, the program that brings people together for an annual pheasant hunt to raise funds to benefit the Northwest Kansas Conservation Foundation (NWKCF), promote hunting tourism, and contribute to local economies.

Highlights:

  • Over $600K has been raised to support the program.
  • PF is assisting in facilitating the program, but it is driven by local volunteers (Logan, Thomas, and Sherman Counties in Kansas).
  • Nearly 1000 acres have been enrolled since May 2024, with a goal of 10,000 acres.
  • The goal is to expand from four counties to all of NW Kansas.
The 2026 National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic will be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, at the Minneapolis Convention Center, from February 20-22, 2026. David Gray photo

Pheasants Forever is notably involved in engaging new members in the hunting community through recruitment, retention, and reactivation of previously active bird hunters. The group sponsors many youth hunts and associated state-required hunter safety classes, emphasizing the importance of safety in every hunt. Gun safety is always stressed when in the field, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

If you daydream about past hunts but are short on time to go, the Pheasant Journal is a periodical that can help. With feature articles on how and where to go, you will be enthralled for hours. Pages are filled with dramatic color images of days in the field and a section with photos “from the good old days”, including grandpa, his old shotgun, and his bird dog. If you are shopping for new gear or want to get a feel for the organization, grab a copy to peruse. A companion publication, Quail Journal, is available for those after “Gentleman Bob” (or the five other quail species).

The highlight of the year for the Pheasants Forever organization is a showcase event called Pheasant Fest. Officially called the National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic, this convention-style extravaganza draws thousands of enthusiasts from across the country. Whether you are interested in the latest model of shotgun, new boots, a puppy, or more, this is an event you don’t want to miss. Youngsters get excited and can’t get enough of the dog breeds during the “bird dog parade,” which happens on day one of the convention. There is something for everyone at this gathering, whether it be live music or the plethora of activities for kids; smiles are unanimous. Federal and state conservation agencies are front and center, offering advice on improving your land. Seed companies, along with agricultural implement dealers, are available to deploy plant varieties for bird nutrition and cover crops for winter survival. Speakers across several stages provide advice on topics from dog training to new hunting sites. The 2026 National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic will be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, at the Minneapolis Convention Center, from February 20-22, 2026. 

To learn more, visit www.pheasantsforever.org and www.kansasringneckclassic.com.

 

Mother Nature and Outdoor Media meet at Lake Wilson, Kansas

Posted on by Dave Barus
  • Where hospitality and nature meet hunters and fishers.
  • Where walleye tournaments are common, smallmouth bass reach seven pounds, and bowfishing is fun after dark.
  • Wilson Lake is a favorite with campers, hikers, bikers, hunters, paddlers, and water sports enthusiasts.

By Jonathan Blumb and David Zumbaugh

Secretary Brad Loveless of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks spoke to communicators.

The Outdoor Communicators of Kansas held their spring conference in Wilson, Kansas – the Czech Capital of the state. Local introductions and hospitality were provided at the unforgettable Midland Railroad Hotel. The town of less than 1,000 is strategically located for hunters and fishers. Cheyenne Bottoms Marsh and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge are just South, and Lake Wilson is just to the North. This berg was settled in 1874 by Bohemian immigrants who came to the area to work on the railroad, establishing the town as the Kansas Center of Czech Culture.

This group of media professionals and freelance contributors to sporting publications does more than just have fun on their outings. Their charitable efforts support youth engagement in the outdoors, offer college scholarships, fund hunting licenses for veterans, and contribute to junior shotgun shooting sports. Since 1961, members have encouraged people to embrace outdoor activities and support various goodwill events to facilitate their mission.

Lake conditions were clear with low water levels.

Fishing guide Joe Bragg of Wakefield, Kansas, and local guides Dale Hines of Sylvan Grove and Wayne Loy of Lincoln graciously gave willing fishers a grand tour of the lake. Members Nick Neff and Mike Miller towed their boats along for big fish bragging rights contests. Mother Nature cooperated, offering beautiful, clear blue skies and mild breezes assisting angling endeavors. Some chose to fish off the shore, as Wilson offers many public access sites to reach deep water and big fish – without a boat.

Rods and reels got a workout as most anglers succeeded with walleye, bass, crappie, wipers, and drum brought to the net. While the bite was less than hot, no one complained because they got to fish Lake Wilson! The waters are renowned for giant stripers; some are even hooked through the ice in winter. Walleye tournaments are common, and smallmouth bass reach seven pounds. A bowfishing tournament, sponsored by Knotheads Bait Shop, was held concurrent with the OCK meeting, with participants from six states shooting huge carp and garfish in the backwater coves.

Joe Bragg caught his first Lake Wilson crappie.

This lake is a favorite with campers, hikers, bikers, hunters, paddlers, and water sports enthusiasts. The epic Switchgrass bike trail is a huge draw, which is not suggested for mountain biker beginners. There are several exceptional hiking trails for all levels of mobility. The Rock Town Trail is spectacular, with views of the lake and overhanging cliffs.

Nearby lodging is available in Russell and Lucas. Kansas Parks and Wildlife has cabins available at Wilson State Park. Several RV campgrounds are available. One is within walking distance of the dam spillway, which offers excellent fishing opportunities when the water is flowing.

Some members took a break from piscivorous pursuits to visit area attractions. One cannot visit Russell County without stopping in Lucas to be amazed at the bizarre Garden of Eden, take in the well-stocked art shops, and have a burger at the K-18 Café. Of course, you must pick up some brats at Brant’s Market to take home.

Attendees were treated to another natural outdoor festival. A fish fry was held at a Lake Wilson State Park cabin.

A fish fry was held in the Hell Creek Area of Wilson State Park.

Someone even Bar-B-Queued bobwhite quail procured from a recent pointer field trial for an over-the-top feast!

Of course, practiced lies were sheepishly spoken about the big one that got away and the snake that tried to get in a boat, but all was accepted in fun. As the evening waned, all were rewarded with a magnificent sunset, which decorated the surrounding hills with gorgeous spectral colors.

All photographs are courtesy of Jonathan Blumb. Additional photographs appear at the end of this story.

Resources:

Midland Railroad Hotel, 414 26th St, Wilson, KS; (785) 658-2284; www.midlandrailroadhotel.com

Knotheads Bait Shop, 132 E. Shoreline Rd., Sylvan Grove, KS; (785) 658-2166; 3knotheads@wtciweb.com; www.baitlady.com

Joe Bragg, Fishing Guide, (785) 408-3172; jbraggfishing@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/Slabnabber/

Dale Hines, Fishing Guide, Hines Guide Service; (620) 474-5388; www.hinesguideservice.com

David Zumbaugh and Laska fished from limestone outcroppings west of Minooka-Park

 

Fishing for bass in a shallow cove near the marina.

Outdoor Communicators of Kansas visit Lucas, Kansas – Outdoor Paradise: Fishing, Hunting, Hiking, Biking, and More

Posted on by Dave Barus
Nationally recognized editors, writers, photographers, artists, and bloggers gather ’round the campfire on a visit to Lucas, KS, for their annual conference.

By David Zumbaugh

The Outdoor Communicators of Kansas (OCK) chose Lucas, Kansas, for their fall 2021 conference on Nov. 20-22, 2021. OCK members include nationally recognized editors, writers, photographers, artists, and bloggers focusing on outdoor recreation.

Lyndzee Rhine was a happy duck hunter during a field day near Lucas, KS.

Nearby Wilson Lake is a fishing hotspot where anglers can catch walleye, white bass, striped bass, catfish, drum and even trophy big-mouthed bass. There is ample room to cruise your boat on the gorgeous 9,000 acres of water. If you prefer to patiently sit in a lawn chair and watch the world go by, you will find plenty of scenic places to fish from shore. The full-service marina in the state park is open from Apr. 1st – Nov. 1st. A host of items is offered, including groceries, live bait, fuel, fishing and camping supplies. There are 200 rental boat slips available.

 Surrounding Lake Wilson is more than 8,000 acres of public hunting access. Deer hunting is popular with hilly terrain providing spot and stalk opportunities. Small game hunters can wear out a pair of boots chasing pheasants, quail and even prairie chickens! Wild turkeys, rabbits and squirrels are present as well. Waterfowl hunting can sometimes get frenzied on the reservoir’s upper end and the many coves and backwater wetlands. There are thousands more acres within Russell and adjacent counties of Walk-In-Hunting-Access (WIHA). The WIHA Atlas is available online. 

Abundant camping opportunities exist, including Wilson State Park, Minooka Park, Lucas Park and Sylvan Park. Cabins and camper hookups are available, and reservations are recommended. Several hiking trails attract both hardcore nimrod hikers and the less ambitious. The Cedar Trail in the Otoe area is an easy one-mile loop with a concrete surface. The 25-mile Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail is a national bucket list challenge for cyclists. 

Tommie Berger explains the “Yellow Brick Road.”

Other area attractions include the Post Rock Scenic Byway driving tour, Garden of Eden, Grassroots Art Center, Possumbilities Antique shop and Kansas Originals Market. Lodging is available in Lucas at the Garden View Lodge, Horseshoe Lodge, Cozy Cottage, Lucas RV Park, and Set in Stone Cabins. Many other lodging choices and services can be found in Russell and Wilson, Kansas. 

A short one-hour drive south will reward you with a visit to Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, the largest wetland in the interior of the United States. More than 300 species of birds have been documented in the bottoms, especially important for shorebirds. Whooping cranes are annual visitors, and people travel from around the globe to witness the antics of the whoopers. Some pools are open for waterfowl hunting, so it gets popular on the weekends during duck season. 

OCK members were surprised at Lucas’s variety of services and supplies, such as from the Home Oil Service Convenience store. They were awed and spooked by the eclectic displays at the Garden of Eden! A Bar-B-Que at the Garden View Lodge with meats sourced from Brant’s Market kept everyone’s energy at peak for their hunting efforts. Jason Vanley of Kansas Outdoor Adventures provided guiding services for pheasants and quail. His dogs entertained everyone at the evening social gathering. 

Lucas is located in the heart of the Smokey Hills, and many visitors consider this area the most beautiful in the state. Local businesses graciously offered support for hunting and fishing pursuits, and the Russell County Convention and Visitors Bureau provided generous hospitality to the group. Visit https://lucaskansas.com/visit for more information.

Garden View Lodge (foreground, right) and aerial view of Lucas, KS.