This past week, we were introduced to a leader in the world of field sport literature by the name of Jim Stenson.  Having recognized that the future of outdoor literature publications is in online media, he has spearheaded the development of a number of online periodicals dedicated to educating and entertaining the world of field sport enthusiasts.  These include such magazines as The Contemporary Sportsmen, The Contemporary Wingshooter, andBackcast (forthcoming).  In both The Contemporary Sportsmen and The Contemporary Wingshooter, readers can enjoy the familiar page-turning feel of a traditional magazine while also benefiting from the global access of online media.

In one of our favorite articles, “These Are Our Good Old Days,” the author tells of his struggles to scout for grouse and woodcock covers in this increasingly urbanized (and suburbanized) landscape.  After spending most of his life living in the suburbs of Boston, William G. Tapply decided to flee to a small village in New Hampshire.  As he writes, “For once in my life, I wanted to be able to spend the hunting season in the woods, not in the car.”

What makes this article so engaging, though, is not just the story itself, but rather the ways in which Tapply is able to paint such vivid image of “the good old days.”  Describing days of simply walking westerly because “the whole countryside was one big grouse cover,” taking time to sit back and savor the moment, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the outdoors, Tapply makes it easy for the reader to get lost in his world.  When contrasted with today’s ever-quickening pace, it is certainly a welcome respite.

We encourage you to check out the rest of the beautifully-written articles contained in these periodicals.  And should you find yourself wanting to develop your own covers, please do not hesitate to give us a shout!