3 Simple Ways Texans Can Keep Mosquitoes, Flies, and Bees Away

Out here in West Texas, few things are more peaceful than enjoying a hot cup of coffee during sunrise or kicking back at sunset after a long day. But lately, that peace is being shattered by clouds of mosquitoes, sneaky flies, and even aggressive bees.

I’ve lived through it, just a couple of weeks ago, I got stung three times while helping a friend load a riding lawn mower. It turns out that a beehive was hidden under the trailer. I grabbed my jar of VapoRub and dabbed it on the stings, and within minutes, the pain started to fade. Today? I've got just one little pink mark to show for it.

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I’ve got three go-to methods that are easy, affordable, and 'One-Arm Outdoorsman' approved. They’ve worked for me, and I believe they’ll work for you too.

These Bugs Aren’t Just Annoying, They Can Be Dangerous

While we haven’t had official reports of mosquito-borne illness this year, yet, last year reminded us just how risky it can get. Mosquitoes and other flying insects can carry West Nile, Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya viruses. Just one bite is all it takes.

Read More: The 8 Body Parts West Texans Should Avoid Touching At All Costs

And trust me, I live near what we call a tank out back (that’s West Texas for a small pond), plus the Lake Abilene Spillway waterway runs right next to my house. When the lake overflows or water is released from the dam, it runs through little creeks and ditches, a mosquito paradise. So I’ve had plenty of run-ins with the buzzing battalion.

The funny thing is, just the other night at dinner, Donna was swatting mosquitoes left and right, frustrated and ready to give up on a peaceful meal. That’s when I said, “Trust me, I’ve got this.” I ran to the bedroom, grabbed my trusty jar of Vicks VapoRub, dabbed a little behind both our ears... and those mosquitoes? Gone. Vanished. We never saw them again.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest tricks, rooted in old-school wisdom, that save the day.

One-Armed Outdoorsman Tested. Big Country Approved.

As someone born with one arm, I’ve always believed in staying prepared, Boy Scout style. When I was doing videos for my One-Armed Outdoorsman YouTube channel, I shared these same tricks. The beauty is, they’re easy to use no matter who you are or what you’re up against. And now that the rain’s brought humidity and standing water, the mosquitoes are out in full force.

You don’t need high-dollar gadgets or fancy gear, just mint, a little spray, and a jar of Vicks. Try it yourself. And if you’ve got your own bug-fighting tricks, I’d love to hear them. And as I always like to say at the end of every one of my One-Armed Outdoorsman episodes, and I mean it: "Enjoy the great outdoors and be safe out there!"