Premier 216-Acre High-Fence Wildlife Haven in Winston County, Alabama
Explore a turnkey 216-acre high-fence deer farm and hunting haven in Winston County, AL. Located minutes from Lewis Smith Lake, this spring-fed property features an 8’ perimeter fence, four breeding pens, managed timber, food plots with Redneck blinds, and a stocked 3-acre lake. Exceptional potential for a private trophy sanctuary, commercial outfitter, or breeding operation.
A Free State Family Tradition: Hunting, Heritage, and the Heart of the Outdoors
For Free State Boat Docks owner Justin Hogan, the discipline of the hunt fuels his success on Lewis Smith Lake. This deep dive into Hogan’s lifelong passion for Alabama hunting covers everything from his once-in-a-lifetime piebald buck to his "no-gimmicks" approach to gear. Learn how 40 years of experience in the woods is now being passed to the next generation in Winston County.
The Gift of the Whisperer
From the Great Depression to the modern day, one family has carried a rare and precious gift. Meet Thurman Hollimon, the original "Whisperer" who could calm the wildest dogs and break unrideable horses. Now, his great-grandson, 16-year-old Bryson Hollis of Red Hill Kennels, is carrying the torch, communicating with animals in a way most can only dream of. Read the story of this incredible inherited talent that defies explanation!
The Underdog Fish: How The Slab Lab is Rewriting the Bluegill Story
The bluegill is often dismissed as a "kid’s fish," but Sarah Parvin and her father are using science to turn these humble sunfish into world-class trophies. Welcome to The Slab Lab, their experimental venture that has produced coppernose bluegill specimens exceeding 3 pounds. Get the story behind their obsession, how a perfect storm led to a bluegill renaissance, and why keeping those giant males is bad for the ecosystem.
"44" More Opening Days: A Lifetime of Fall’s First Flights
Heavy rain greeted the opening day of dove season at Owens Crossroads, but Ashton-Brett (Brett) Anderson wasn't about to let a little mud slow her down. She shares her story of hunting with a field full of strangers and how the timeless wisdom from her grandfather armed her with confidence. From Jane Austen fan to avid hunter, read how Brett and her closest friend, Emily, turn every outdoor adventure—with their trusty Boykin Spaniel, Nacho—into a memorable day of laughter and success.
Know Your Market Before You Plant: J. Calvert Farms
J. Calvert Farms in Cullman, Alabama, is more than just a farm; it's a testament to long-term planning and generational wisdom. Follow sixth-generation farmer Jeremy Calvert as he shares his family's journey from a red potato operation to a diverse, multi-dimensional business. Learn the secret to their success: understanding the market, adapting to change, and growing a variety of in-demand products, from strawberries to corn. Read how this family farm thrives by focusing on strategic growth and deep community roots.
A “Reeltime” Bass Recipe
Looking for an easy but delicious way to cook that nice bass you just caught?
We've got the perfect recipe, shared by Jasper-based fishing guide and lure craftsman Richard "Trae" Anderson of Reel Time Anglers. It's a simple, delicious way to use your latest catch—or even frozen fillets—with a unique blend of seasonings and a touch of truffle butter. Whether you serve it with Spanish rice or cheese grits, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Life Lessons at Firefly Farms
Inspired by a wave of fireflies, a couple in North Alabama started a small-scale farm that has grown into a thriving family business selling flowers, vegetables, beef, and poultry, while also serving as a way to educate their children and the community on sustainable living.
Remembering the First Day of Hunting Season
In honor of dove season arriving in North Alabama, Loretta Gillespie, our resident Master Gardener, shares a nostalgic look back at a time when the first day of hunting season felt like an official holiday. This isn't just a story about the hunt; it's a sensory journey into the past, filled with the scent of WD-40 and frying birds, the crisp feel of autumn air, and the deep-rooted rituals that defined a family. From meticulously cleaned shotguns to the bond between a boy and his loyal Irish Setter, Loretta paints a vivid picture of a day steeped in pride and the simple joy of tradition.
Jasper-Based Angler Reels in Success with Custom-Made Lures for Smith Lake and Beyond
Looking to land the catch of a lifetime? Don't leave your success to chance. Discover the custom, handcrafted lures of Jasper-based fishing guide Richard Trae Anderson. A retired U.S. military veteran and owner of Reel Time Anglers, Anderson pours his expertise into every lure, designing them to "match the hatch" and outsmart even the most elusive bass. From classic crankbaits to realistic swimbaits, his creations have become a secret weapon for anglers across the country and are even trusted by professionals in the Bassmaster Elite Series. Learn how these meticulously crafted lures can transform your next fishing trip, whether your fishing in North Alabama or as far away as the Columbian Amazon, a region where Reel Time Anglers now offers guided trips (see Anderson’s peacock bass above).
From New Jersey to North Alabama: A Family's Journey to Their Dream Farm
Moving from New Jersey to rural North Alabama, Dominique and Scott Mason faced the challenge of a lifetime: building their dream farm from the ground up. In this exclusive interview, Dominique shares the family's journey, from the pivotal moment that sparked the move to the surprising realities of first-generation farming. Discover how they've overcome obstacles, embraced the local community, and are working to create a satisfying, self-sufficient life on their own terms.
(Almost) Homemade Blackberry Cobbler
Looking for the perfect treat to satiate your sweet tooth this weekend? Our resident Master Gardener and champion of home cooking, Loretta Gillespie, has you covered with her delightful blackberry cobbler recipe.
Meet Nature's Lawnmowers
A North Alabama hobby farmer is using his herd of 18 Nigerian Dwarf goats to offer a cost-effective, environmentally friendly land-clearing service for development properties and other acreage.