Field & Stream: Not Just for Men Anymore

We have been subscribers to Field & Stream for so many years that I have lost count, but it has only been in the last couple of years that I have grabbed the magazine before my husband could get his hands on it. While I love to fish, I never seemed to find the motivation to read one of Jim's sportsman's magazines.

Until one day we were sitting in the car waiting for our daughter to be done with softball practice. I started browsing through the mail, and opened the issue of Field & Stream. From that moment on, I am the first one in the household to read this magazine and I think I actually enjoy it more than Jim does.

Why? Because Field & Stream is educational and informative, but not so technical that a novice would be hopelessly confused. The articles are very well-written, to the point, and make sense. I have not to this date finished reading an article in this magazine and felt like I did not understand what I had read.

Every issue teaches me something new, whether big or little. And I find I am now being drawn to the hunting articles as well as the ones on fishing, since one of these days I just might learn to hunt.

An Example of What Is This Magazine All About

Education. For example, in the May 2007 issue, one of the main articles is entitled "The Total Outdoorsman - Sharpen Your Skills: 50 Things Every Sportsman Should Know." This article was the cover advertisement, and I was immediately intrigued. I turned to the page, and couldn't put the magazine down until I had finished reading the article. The tips included things from Reloading in 3 seconds to going potty in the wilderness properly (no I am not kidding) to making a coffee cup out of a tin can, among a myriad of other things. It is worth purchasing this issue of the magazine just for this article.


Positives

Great articles, excellent information.

Excellent mix of hunting and fishing articles, making Field & Stream a wonderful resource for hunters, fisherpeople, and those who engage in both activities. It is nice to have a well-rounded magazine.

The features are well-done and interesting. Features include Editor's Notes, Cheers & Jeers, First Shot, and A Sportsman's Life.

Variety. Each issue of this magazine contains a wonderful variety of articles, and I have found so many truly educational articles inside each issue that I find Field & Stream to be one of those magazines I keep around for basic reference when I need to look something up. A keeper; nice change from those that I read only to get rid of as quickly as possible.

The writing is tight and efficient. Articles are well-edited and flow smoothly.


Negatives

Only one, and that is the advertisements. A pet peeve of mine I have to admit. I will give credit that the vast majority of ads in this magazine have something to do with hunting or fishing, and only a few really detract from the enjoyment of reading. Most of the ads are tastefully done but there is still occasional confusion as to whether I am starting to read an article feature or an ad.


Final Thoughts

While some of the articles and information may seem too simplistic for the experienced hunter/fisherperson, I find that the magazine is in general well-suited to all levels of experience. I highly recommend this magazine, and I think it is well worth the money.

If you buy Field & Stream at the newsstand or grocery store you will pay a great deal more per issue than if you subscribe. If you are looking for the best deal, a 12 month subscription only costs $10.00 a year and it is worth every penny.

For those who are uncertain, you can check it out at the Field & Stream at wwww.fieldandstream.com. At this site you can experience the articles and subscribe from the website.

Enjoy!