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Cast & Blast at Pocono Manor

  • By
  • July 5, 2017
Pocono Manor Sports

Learn new skills at Pocono Manor

 

Trap Shooting and Fishing

 

When you meet Mike Possinger, you’ll understand why the Pocono Manor Resort & Spa  “Cast & Blast” package is so much fun.

Mike Possinger, Manor Sports’ Director, Pocono Manor Resort & Spa, teaches guests to trap shoot. All lessons are centered on gun safety.

Pocono Manor Resort & Spa’s consummate manager of Manor Sports delights in introducing folks to trap shooting and fishing. They happen to be two of Possinger’s specialties, but the package can be tailored to beginners or more experienced folks who want to fine-tune their skills.

Cast & Blast is one of an assortment of “Stay & Play” packages available at Pocono Manor, a historic inn located in Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania.

According to Possinger, the original plan was to offer Cast & Blast as a Father’s Day promotion but his idea soon evolved into an all-day event that’s perfect for families, couples, and groups.

“It took off,” Possinger said. “The opportunity is right here. You’re going to shoot right here and go a half-mile away and fish in another.”

Creating moments that result in smiles and laughter are among his goals and this year marks the first time Pocono Manor formally marketed this “Stay & Play” package to guests and non-guests. Overnight lodging, breakfast, three hours of fishing, and an Intro to Trapshooting rates start at $199 per night. A resort fee and tax are not included and reservations are required.

Pocono Manor Packages
I learned the essentials of trap shooting during my recent stay at Pocono Manor. Photo by Mike Possinger. 

Here’s what Kelly Shannon, Pocono Mountains Visitor Bureau PR and social media manager said via email about Pocono Manor’s contributions to the Pocono Mountains’ tourism industry.

“Pocono Manor Resort & Spa is a huge draw to visitors, positively contributing to the tourism in the Pocono Mountains. With so many catered packages and onsite activities like fishing, horseback riding, archery, biking, seasonal events, and in the winter even horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and ice skating, Pocono Manor has so much to offer for all tastes. The resort’s renowned golf course and its serene spa provide even more entertainment to guests. With so much to do, we find visitors returning to indulge in their other activities season-to-season.”

I recently sampled the trap shooting and fly fishing package during a two-day assignment sponsored by Pocono Manor Resort & Spa. Cast & Blast includes about an hour of trap shooting and two to three hours of fishing, but experienced anglers who want to spend more time on the water can fish at the on-site streams for hours.

Possinger is certified through the National Rifle Association (NRA) for shotgun and pistol handling and will devote as much time as needed to be sure participants are comfortable handling a gun. He provides full instruction, covering topics such as gun safety and proper ways to hold, aim and shoot and he’ll tailor a package to meet the needs of families, small groups or corporate clients. Prices will vary, depending on how much casting and blasting you want to do.

“It’s one of those things you don’t experience every day of your life in your own backyard, so we try to make everyone comfortable. People want to learn how to handle a gun,” Possinger said. 

Participants must be 12 years and older to participate in that particular package, but Possinger said he’ll be happy to “dream up all sorts of games and activities that will keep everyone happy.”

“If that’s all it takes to make them (people) smile, why not do it? I’ve been at Pocono Manor for a long time and I want you to have fun. I’m the ‘bartender” or ‘beauty salon’ out here.”

Possinger joined the Manor in the mid-1970s as a snow-maker when the manor’s ski program was in operation. Following college and years in politics, Possinger learned the Manor Sports director’s position was available.That was 12 years ago.

“I don’t complain about getting up in the morning and going to work. I go and it’s one of those things that happens when you find a once-in-a-lifetime job.”

Since then, he has catered to guests, including countless individuals with special needs and circumstances.

“Years ago, a guest (a lady) had a bucket list. She was terminally ill and in a wheelchair. I built a tripod and made it so I could set it across her wheelchair. I made a holder that set on her wheelchair and she could turn the tripod and just pull the trigger. She told me, ‘I can’t believe I’m doing this. Situations like that are very special to me.”

I spent my second day at Pocono Manor fly fishing in a stream on the property, along pristine “catch and release” water. The on-site stream is only available to registered Pocono Manor guests. A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone who plans to take fish from the property.

Pocono Manor Sports
Anglers will find stocked and native trout in streams located on Pocono Manor’s property.

On July 20, 2017, Erin Caulfield, a Pocono Manor spokesperson announced Pocono Manor Resort & Spa has received certification from the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA), the largest clay target shooting organization in the world. She also noted the resort has installed five state-of-the-art Pat-Trap machines.

Pocono Manor Resort & Spa is now the only resort in the Pocono region with the ability to host ATA-member only sanctioned registered shoots.

Caufield said Pocono Manor will host its second registered shoot on September 30, 2017. Participants are eligible for discounted overnight rates.

Save the date

 

Spend Oct. 14 outdoors at Pocono Manor’s Family Field Day with Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitters. The day’s activities will include Instruction in shooting .22 rifles, airsoft rifles, shotguns, compound bows and crossbows, fishing, fly-fishing demos, children’s games, and a barbecue menu.  Visit https://www.PoconoManor.com/Events for more information.

You can reach out to Possinger and find additional Cast & Blast information at poconomanor.com/manor-sports. 

To learn more about Pocono Manor, see my companion story joanmatsuitravelwriter.com/inn-pocono-manor-splendor. 

Manor Sports is open Mon. to Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.


 

 

 

 

 

 

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Fly-Fishing Gear

  • By
  • April 22, 2017
  • Sticky
Orvis Fly Fishing 101 classes free

Shop Great Deals on Orvis Products

Durable Fishing Gear Made to Last

Buy your fly-fishing gear from Orvis and with the proper care, you won’t need to replace your gear for years to come. Fall and winter are the perfect times to prepare for next year’s opening day now. Stock up on the equipment, supplies, and clothing you need now so you’re ready for your first day on the water. Chances are you spent more time fishing this year than ever before as COVID wreaked havoc on the world and caused travel bans. Maybe your favorite fishing store was forced to close during the stay-at-home order and you made do with the supplies you had on hand.

As an Orvis affiliate, I know their products are manufactured with quality craftsmanship and built to last. The Orvis Company affiliate program allows me to endorse products I use and trust. Check out Orvis’ America’s Oldest Mail-Order Outfitter

Orvis is the longest continually-operating fly-fishing business. This international, multi-channel retailer offers a wide assortment of products and services that range from men’s and women’s sportswear to gifts, home furnishings, luggage, travel accessories, pet items, and gear and technical apparel used for wing shooting and sporting clays.

Hats off to Orvis founder, Charles F. Orvis for his foresight. He founded the company in Manchester, VT in 1856.

Orvis

Orvis Embraces Conservation Efforts

I understand and appreciate the great strides conservationists make every day. Orvis remains at the top of the ongoing efforts to clean up our waterways and protect them from future contamination.

During my media trip to Orvis’ flagship store and factory in Manchester, VT, I received personalized training in all-things fly-fishing related with an emphasis on conservation efforts. 

Shop the online clearance room for holiday gifts and items you can use to stay warm and dry while you fish.

Orvis

Build Your Foundation

Learn to Fly Fish with the Orvis Pros (or find an instructor near you)

Find a fly-fishing class at your local Orvis retail store or sign up for classes offered by other organizations like Trout Unlimited or your state’s fish and boat commission. That is to say, learn proper casting techniques so you can fully appreciate my new hobby and catch fish. After that, get out on the water and practice, practice, practice!

Giving Back

Orvis donates five percent of pre-tax profits every year to protect nature, support communities, and advance canine health and well-being. Proceeds are estimated to be $14 million in more than 25 years.

Get Outdoors and Challenge Yourself

Learn Something New EVERY DAY

Fly fishing is a sport that takes years to master through continuous trial and error. The more time you devote to education and practice, the more likely you’ll grow your skills. Devote time to practice and learning about trout and other species’ habits. That means hours and hours of casting and time on the water until you’re in sync with your equipment.

Recreation Therapy! Venture outdoors.

Each hour you spend fishing, walking your dog, and hiking positively impacts your overall mental and physical health. Strive for 60 or more minutes per day of your own personal free time.

As a result, the more you engage in outdoor activities, the less likely you’ll worry or stress. Think of outdoor recreation as a therapy session for whatever ails you.

Meanwhile, practice responsible fishing and conservation and adhere to rules and regulations in place to protect fish and their natural habitats.

A Personal Note – Share Your Love!

Fly-fishing gear is a perfect gift for family and friends. Loved ones are more likely to join you if they have the equipment. Find the balance between work and play and pass that along to someone you love.

A few years ago, I bought my youngest an Encounter rod and reel combo. He wasn’t overly enthusiastic about learning to fish but it’s my pleasure to share my love for the outdoors. Consequently, we occasionally get out on the water together. 

The Orvis factory tour was a treat. We saw firsthand how fly-fishing gear is made.
During my Orvis factory tour, an employee works diligently to put the finishing touches on fly rods.
Take a break and browse the selection of merchandise. Need fishing clothes? Use this coupon to get 20% off a Drirelease T-Shirt.

I purchased my first Orvis Clearwater fly rod and reel combo in 2012 and it travels with me everywhere I go. Who knows when you’ll get the bug to fish?

Outstanding Warranty

Face the fact we all damage our fly-fishing equipment at some point. My first break happened when I tripped on a rock while fishing in the Delaware River. Fly rods and reels can also be damaged from improper use. The Orvis guarantee is incredible. You can read more about warranties here or contact your local Orvis retail store

Fly-Fishing Gear includes the most popular flies to use.
Do you know the most popular flies? Certified instructors give detailed information during Orvis Fly-Fishing 101 classes

Resources’ Wrap-Up

Learn fly fishing basics at a free Orvis Fly Fishing 101 course and locate a store near you by following this link. http://www.orvis.com/s/free-fly-fishing-lessons/8249?dir_id=22592&group_id=27370&cat_id=50215 

You’re also one step closer to catching a trophy trout, bass or panfish when you fish with the pros. Check out Orvis’ fly fishing and hosted trips. http://www.orvis.com/s/orvis-group-trips/9672?dir_id=22592&group_id=22958&cat_id=14007

Check out other Orvis’ products and services. They run the gamut from fly fishing to outdoor gear. Use the Orvis Coupon to buy yourself or your fishing partner a gift! Save 25% on the Women’s Marled Sweater Fleece Zip-Front Vest

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Waders? Are you petite or tall? Do you have a difficult time finding waders that fit? Check out Orvis’ Ready to Start Your Fly-Fishing Adventures?

Read a related story. Salmon River Fly-Fishing.

Prepare for your fishing adventure with Orvis Wading Boots


DISCLOSURE:

The links on this page are affiliate links. I  earn a small commission if you make a purchase but at no additional cost to you. I trust Orvis’ products and link to their products based on their helpful and useful nature.  

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