As fall rolls around and students become more secluded to their dorms, it is easy to forget there is more to do in Connecticut than watch the Yankees play the Red Sox.
With a little creativity and some stamina, students can appreciate nature, get off campus, and have some fun before winter. Students have many options including fishing, hunting, and hiking all at their fingertips.
One of the best and most overlooked times of the fishing season is the fall. All different species (such as bluefish and striped bass) have hit their peak size and can be caught from the beach to the boat. Students can go down to Fairfield beach, throw a line, and catch a trophy-sized fish.
One great place to get equipment, and licenses for non-residents, is Compact Fishing Gear Bait ‘ Tackle Shop, (203) 227-4377, 170 Post Rd. West in Westport, Conn. If you want a drier and warmer way to bring home your fish of a lifetime, try booking one of the many party and charter boats available online and in the yellow pages.
If fishing isn’t a hobby of yours, hunting may be. Connecticut is a hotbed for hunting activities. There are numerous state parks, such as Quinnipiac River State Park and Pootatuck State Forest, which allow hunters to find deer, turkey, and all sorts of fowl. However, as in any state, licenses are required not only for the gun, but to be allowed to hunt.
The easy process is just a few clicks away by navigating through the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, http://dep.state.ct.us. Though hunting as a student may be a little difficult, for the avid hunter it’s well worth the effort.
A great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to wake up early or deal with equipment is to take advantage of the great hiking trails in Connecticut. Not only is it a terrific form of exercise, but also a nice way to view the foliage and an excellent weekend activity.
A local park located on Southern Blvd. in Danbury, is the Tarrywile Park and Mansion with over 21 miles of trails. Best of all, it’s free! If you want an adventurous day, try mountain biking at Mianus River Preserve, on Westover Road in Stamford or horseback riding at Bethel and Redding Huntington Park. More thrilling alternatives.
Connecticut is full of opportunities to get out on the weekends. Searching online, through the Yellow Pages, or asking around are great ways to find the perfect outdoor activity. Keep in mind that certain activities do require permits and have restrictions, so have a good time, but do it safely and lawfully!
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