26-Apr-2017, 04:20 PM (This post was last modified: 29-Apr-2017, 02:37 PM by Drone0fPrey.)
First off, I am still a bit fresh when it comes to flying a hobby grade racing/acro quad. But I am experienced in finding those "secret spots" we all wish to find.
Being raised in a family who appreciates nature, I grew up fishing, hunting, camping and hiking. Back then Dad and I would go hiking for miles, just for fun and hopes of finding that secret spot along the river for fishing or through the woods scouting for deer and safe shooting lines.
Nowadays with all the technology around the world, literally, in the palm of our hands, we can take things even further while saving time and resources. Not to take away from actually getting outside and exploring on our own two feet! But to aid in the search.
I'd like to start this thread as a place to share our strategies for finding those perfect flying spots we all dream about. Don't lie, you know you've had them
What apps or maps do you use?
Tips for country and city dwellers?
Permissions and trespassing concerns.
As well as Country specific rules/regulations.
Edit: Don't forget to check surrounding areas for NFZs and TFRs (thanks Oscar )
Personally I am a country boy with Google Earth
For public places I like to start by doing a search for parks, trails, camping ect. near the area Im in or plan to go. From there I use Google Earth to get a feel for the landscape and if there are any areas worth taking a look at in person. Then I like to wear out the kiddos on a good hike (like father, like son ) We even bring the ground RCs often for this I found a set of soccerfields on the edge of town surrounded by forest and hidden from the roads view that nobody ever visits until games or practice. Perfect for MY practice (hidden fields dvr coming soon )
As for private property. My hunting experience helps me here. You absolutely must have permission to hunt someone elses land. Why would it be any different for flying a quad. This is where you brush up on your people skills Put a smile on your face and just ask. Introduce yourself and explain what you would like to do in a polite and friendly manner. When hunting it also helps to ensure the person you are licensed and practice safe shooting procedures. Again not much different with hobby flying, (if in USA like myself) offer them your FAA registration number and explain you practice "safe flying" (safe for people not necessarily the quad itself ) I have even found that just offering to see the aerial footage entices people Once you do get permission at a place, be sure to let the owner know WHENEVER you will be or plan to be flying.
In conclusion, go exploring! Get outside! Take a different way to work or class. If you have time, turn down a road you've never been and get off the beaten path. Flying spot or not, you're now a 21st century explorer!
Hope this helps. Everyone should have their "perfect" spot!
And please share your own personal strategies and tips for finding that spot.
Being raised in a family who appreciates nature, I grew up fishing, hunting, camping and hiking. Back then Dad and I would go hiking for miles, just for fun and hopes of finding that secret spot along the river for fishing or through the woods scouting for deer and safe shooting lines.
Nowadays with all the technology around the world, literally, in the palm of our hands, we can take things even further while saving time and resources. Not to take away from actually getting outside and exploring on our own two feet! But to aid in the search.
I'd like to start this thread as a place to share our strategies for finding those perfect flying spots we all dream about. Don't lie, you know you've had them
What apps or maps do you use?
Tips for country and city dwellers?
Permissions and trespassing concerns.
As well as Country specific rules/regulations.
Edit: Don't forget to check surrounding areas for NFZs and TFRs (thanks Oscar )
Personally I am a country boy with Google Earth
For public places I like to start by doing a search for parks, trails, camping ect. near the area Im in or plan to go. From there I use Google Earth to get a feel for the landscape and if there are any areas worth taking a look at in person. Then I like to wear out the kiddos on a good hike (like father, like son ) We even bring the ground RCs often for this I found a set of soccerfields on the edge of town surrounded by forest and hidden from the roads view that nobody ever visits until games or practice. Perfect for MY practice (hidden fields dvr coming soon )
As for private property. My hunting experience helps me here. You absolutely must have permission to hunt someone elses land. Why would it be any different for flying a quad. This is where you brush up on your people skills Put a smile on your face and just ask. Introduce yourself and explain what you would like to do in a polite and friendly manner. When hunting it also helps to ensure the person you are licensed and practice safe shooting procedures. Again not much different with hobby flying, (if in USA like myself) offer them your FAA registration number and explain you practice "safe flying" (safe for people not necessarily the quad itself ) I have even found that just offering to see the aerial footage entices people Once you do get permission at a place, be sure to let the owner know WHENEVER you will be or plan to be flying.
In conclusion, go exploring! Get outside! Take a different way to work or class. If you have time, turn down a road you've never been and get off the beaten path. Flying spot or not, you're now a 21st century explorer!
Hope this helps. Everyone should have their "perfect" spot!
And please share your own personal strategies and tips for finding that spot.