A 32-year-old schoolteacher was running along an isolated road when something attacked her. The woman’s body was found in a pool of blood by some locals on snowmobiles. The cause of death has yet to be determined, but the local villagers have already assigned the blame to pack of extremely bold wolves. Wolf tracks were found around the body, and people spotted the animals. The town has been on edge while a group of hunters has been roaming the woods the past few days looking for the animals. The state medical examiner concluded, following an autopsy Thursday morning, that the cause of death was “multiple injuries due to animal mauling.” Based on interviews with biologists and villagers in Chignik Lake, troopers concluded wolves were the animals most likely responsible, troopers spokeswoman Megan Peters said in a statement. 

This is a very sad tragedy and likely won’t be the last time this happens.  Although this is very rare with only two documented cases in North America we are seeing an ever increasing wolf population near towns and national parks.  If you are going into areas where there are known wolves, bears or lions one has to be prepared and use caution. 

After posting the question ” Should we have reintroduced the Gray Wolf into Idaho and Yellowstone” we received a number of great comments that we wanted to share.  This important issue is making front page news and on the cover of  National Geographic and Field & Stream. 

http://www.bullsandbeavers.com/2010/02/26/should-we-have-reintroduced-the-gray-wolf-into-idaho-and-yellowstone/

1. Cory Glauner says:
   March 3, 2010 at 2:36 pm  (Edit)

   I don’t have a problem with wolves. Wolves are cool. Too many wolves are NOT cool. Just like people.

   Now that we have them, we need to control them, and the amount of control needs to be determined by scientific data, not politics and emotions.

2. admin2 says:
   March 3, 2010 at 4:10 pm  (Edit)

   Thanks Cory,

   I am with you on this one. Wolves are an incredible predator and complete the natural balance. Now that they are here to stay they need to be managed.

3. Jim Crowley says:
   March 5, 2010 at 2:50 pm  (Edit)

   I think a reintroduction would be good. There are always benefits to a predator/prey relationship. The wolfs are a strong pack animal and that could help control populations of other animals. They are also a challenging hunt that could in time bring additional revenue into a state. Hunting will control the wolf population and in the future there could be continued benefits fom a well run plan. I am hunting wolf for my first time later this year in Ontario where it is now allowed because of the over popultion of wolf’s.

4. Marc Reindell says:
   March 5, 2010 at 3:40 pm  (Edit)

   I think that the reintroduction of the wolf to the areas that once had great numbers of them overall is a good thing. Having said that, because of the impact they can have on livestock populations as well as natural herds of game animals, I believe that they now have to be managed just as most or all species of wildlife are now managed.

   Trying to keep a stable and sustainable population of wolves will be a constant work in progress but will be necessary to try to maintain a balance of Elk, Deer and other prey animals that wolves hunt, kill and eat. I also believe that ranchers should still have the ability to kill a wolf if found to be killing his livestock.

   I believe that proper wildlife management can keep a balance that wolves, prey, hunters, ranchers and wildlife lovers in general can all learn to live with.

5. Brent says:
   March 5, 2010 at 3:42 pm  (Edit)

   The overall answer in my opinion is NO. The plan was to introduce a specie of Wolf not common to the area but with clear management in mind. We already had wolves in Idaho, I heard and saw then several times. Keeping in the mind the original goals and then looking at what happened gives us a better understanding of the problem.

   The federal government was not equiped to monitor and track the wolf success in the remote areas and clearly were not willing to admit this failure. The states, especially Idaho, petitioned the fed’s for many years to work with the states and get the wolves into proper management policy before playing catch up when it comes to depredation.

   At this point Idaho has 150 known breeding pairs/packs; that is a pair that successfuly bred and raised pups to 1 year of age. For each known pack it is estimated there is at least 1 unknown pack. There is on average 5 wolves per pack. So far this year alone I have seen 6 packs without collars and COLLARs are the only way they know about the wolves from a scientific base. Therefore, all 150 packs have a collared wolf in the pack. The number of wolves in the state are much closer to 2000 then 1000 and the depredation is amazing.

   Now that wolves have been incorporated into our outdoor experience I have capitalized on it and so have many others. I spent a great deal of time chasing these incredible predators all over the mountains; I have watched and video’d them many times and am in awe of their abilities. I also watched herds of elk be run ragged, tongues hanging out, skin and bone, and nervous. I feel for them as they attempt to beat mothers natures wrath of winter and have to also attempt to survive this onslaught. Wolves tend to run the elk in an attempt to injure and wear them down. It is sad, but part of the process. As a lover of elk hunting it is haunting to see the success of the wolf when killing elk. In the area I hunt and guide I see a lot of kill sites and elk tend to be scattered which makes it difficult for them to breed during the rut. It is not an ideal situation.

   The fact is that the wolf is here and we need good policy to manage them. Hunters really have not had much success and will not either due to the way the wolf hunts; mostly during night. They are quite difficult to hunt, even if evidence of their presence is all around you. They are smart, adaptive, cunning, and cover a lot of territory in a small amount of time. On one hand it is a good revenue generator for our state but on the other hand it depletes elk pop and hunter success on elk; that depletes revenue because fewer non-residents want to come here and compete with the wolf.

6. Chris Johnsrud says:
   March 5, 2010 at 3:55 pm  (Edit)

   The wolf restoration in the Rocky Mountains was a poorly concieved project from the beginning. The Bush administration was correct in returning authority to individual states in deciding what management practices would be best. The emotional outcry of uneducated people demanding that the wolf be protected at all costs is just another chapter in the book of animal rights advocates illogical concepts. The devastation upon the deer and elk herds, not to mention livestock, due to the reintroduction of the wolf will take years to overcome if it can be done at all.
   I for one enjoy going to Yellowstone and seeing wild animals in their natural habitat. Keep the wolves in Yellowstone, if they come out, hunt the hell out of them as we do with the Elk and Bison that leave the sanctuary.

7. J. Greco says:
   March 5, 2010 at 4:39 pm  (Edit)

   First I don’t think there was anything wrong with introducing the Wolf back into the ecosystem. However once established there should be no reason NOT to have a legal hunting season on them. Like anything however it won’t be Pro Wolf groups or Anti Wolf groups that influence the future of the wolf, it will come down to dollars. When revenue from hunting license sales start affecting state budgets and they will, when revenue from tax dollars start to disappear from gear sales, tourism, lodging and all the small niche businesses that give the states and the feds a cut from their guiding business whether it be hunting, photography, t-shirt sales whatever, Washington will notice and the will be no more protection for the Wolf on a Federal level. More than likely when this happens it will be to late for the prey species that the Wolf is diminishing. They won’t be wiped out but their numbers will be drastically reduced.
   The Wolf is a symbol of the wilderness, and it has every right to roam the valleys and mountains but not under Federal protection, not at the expense of breeding unchecked and decimating other prey species. Somewhere I saw it posted, Shoot, Shovel and Shut up that”s what the approach will be until special interest groups and law makers realize that you can’t protect a predator at the top of the food chain because eventually that predator is going to run out of food.

8. Rebecca says:
   March 5, 2010 at 7:27 pm  (Edit)

   Honestly, I thought it was a terrible idea in the 90’s and on this day as I give my two cents, the only thing good I can say is thankfully they have FINALLY allowed some resemblence of management over the wolves.

   I am a hunter, so rather then scientific evidence, I have only what I’ve seen as a serious decline in the elk and deer population over the years. I’ve had wolves come into our camps and harrass horses and chase one big surly mule who broke his rope for an entire morning before the big boy finally made it back to us exhausted, a bit battered, but safe, and I’ve had friends who have lost hunting hounds to wolves.

   Although people, many of which simply find a wolf a pretty picture on their cozy blanket or weaved into a dreamcatcher but aren’t actually out there engaged, in the ‘wild’, cry and call foul on a hunting season for wolves, my understanding is that now, as the wolves are hunted, they will be able to teach their young pups caution to humans and occupied areas. The wolves need to feel a sense of fear, for their safety and ours.

   Just a few quick thoughts from my side of the Idaho fence~

9. Ben G. says:
   March 5, 2010 at 9:56 pm  (Edit)

   I think the reintroduction of the wolves into Idaho and yellow stone was wonderful. It’s also great for the ecosystem to have a natural preditor back in the mix. It can get a bit sticky when these wolves attack live stock even more so when their numbers are very low. At this point the numbers are very high and I don’t see any problem with managing the numbers.

   Here in Minnesota we have some 2000+ wolves and the state was going to open a season, but the environmentalists blocked the new season. Currently there is some debate here that the high wolf numbers are affecting the deer population. I may even take it a bit further and say they are affecting our greatly declining Moose population. Who knows I’m not the one out there doing the research.

   On the other hand why aren’t wolves doing as well in Wisconsin? I don’t know, but they have almost twice the deer population as Minnesota. So maybe the Wolves aren’t affecting the deer population as much as we think, maybe it’s just all the snow and cold we’ve had in the past few winters killing off the deer.(darn global warming) Or maybe the wolves are killing more fawns?

   I also agree that new hunting seasons could generate a lot of revenue for these states. Right now isn’t every one looking for more cash? BIG MONEY MAKER DON”T MISS OUT!

   All that said Open a season!

10. Ricky John Ruzzamenti says:
    March 7, 2010 at 10:43 am  (Edit)

    I think the reintroduction was a good idea if the science data said so,im not in charge of the count,and i trust the experts. If i had it my way it would be as simple as this (1)the feds putt up a bounty (100 dollar reward)that way the rancher & hunter’s are happy. And (2)Let the wildlife biologist sort it out and keep some wild wolfs for the Zoos so the liberal city slikers and enviromenalist can view them and be happy.LOL what i really want to say is shoot all the wolf ,coyote,and cats on site,that will take care of those preditors i hate those animals.But i cant so i wont. Im serious those predators suck big time but killing them all is not the answer they need qwotas and managment. Freekin Humans suck too,shit were all in trouble. LOL happy joy joy its like religion & politics i hate to talk about it because it always ends up in a abstract conversation,im sorry if you dont like my comment,im just a redneck surf bum from so cal.Peace out!!

11. silverwolf says:
    March 9, 2010 at 6:02 pm  (Edit)

    Let them return. It will help the balance of nature. As long as humans stay out.

12. Brian says:
    March 10, 2010 at 12:09 am  (Edit)

    I don’t live out West and didn’t pay much attention to the initial reintroduction. Without knowing the science and/or reasoning behind it, I can’t really say whether the reintroduction was a good idea. However, since the wolves are here, I do feel strongly that they need to be managed. They’re no different than any other species that is managed. Gone are the days of simply allowing animals to flourish or perish on their own. When there was ample land and food supplies that was the way of nature. Now, thanks to our widespread development and our interference, animals don’t have the luxury of existing the way they once did.

    Plenty of animals are hunted that are not necessarily eaten. Wolves, like other top predators, have no natural enemies. The country today cannot sustain a huge wolf population as it did when the wild was really wild. Without some management on our part, I fear an expanding wolf population would lead to huge problems as they come into more and more contact with humans and our “things” – pets, livestock, etc.

    I have no idea what an appropriate number is nor do I know how much the wolf population would grow if left unchecked. Obviously, there have already been issues in the areas the wolves currently inhabit. I don’t think, though, that a species can be brought back into an area and then simply left to grow without some management. And I’m not a wolf hater by any means. I think they’re majestic animals that do have a place in our ecosystem, but humans have screwed things up too much at this point not to have management in place.

13. Michelle says:
    March 10, 2010 at 1:00 pm  (Edit)

    They shouldn’t have been reintroduced to states that don’t honor and respect them. Let them come to more educated states like Minnesota, we love wolves!

14. Sherry Ann Taylor says:
    March 13, 2010 at 12:03 pm  (Edit)

    Wovles are astounding. Their cunningness and stealthy teamwork is intriguing. Their vocalizations are a source of awe inspired moments and films of them have caused me to feel a tugging in my heart while reaching for a tissue a time or two.

    We are all being brainwashed…either for a cause or against it. It all depends who you choose to listen to. Is it the person or organization within the confindes of a dwelling surrounded by many people and other structures whose main interaction with the marauder is through edited documentaries and writings that should be heard the loudest? Or is it the person who is interacting with the land and the animals in it who has been forced to become a neighbor with a killer?

    If it were true that these animals could understand where their boundaries lie or that they would comply with the written rules it would be one viable arguement. The truth is the this predator kills not only for the sustanance for themselves and their offspring but also as a thrill. Documentation shows many times the frenzy occurs for sport and does not pertain only to a list of specifed menu items. So many times the victim is held at the nose by one killer and while another eats choice parts out of them while they are still living. This can be a gruelling and lengthy process for the attacked. Many are found mangled, disfigured and still alive. That is heartwreching.

    I live where the buffalo, cattle, horses, sheep, deer, antelope, and coyotes roam. I have not seen a wolf stray into my backyard but I am not very far from Yellowstone so it could happen.

    Animals need to be controlled so they do not outgrow their prey base. When they do venture and they always do, it would be nice to be able to protect what is ours.

    To sum it up, if they end up in my backyard stalking my kids and their Corgi…..I would like to be able to eliminate the problem.

Salmon Fishing
While fishing in Alaska, your experienced guide exposes you to a variety of fishing opportunities and methods. Salmon fishing typically involves trolling using down-riggers, however, lead weights or deep divers are often employed to reach fish just below the surface. In Alaska, we troll with herring and artificial lures- we have a full arsenal of tools and tactics. Whatever it takes to make ‘em bite!

Sometimes, mooching or even jigging will be the method of the day for catching salmon. Typically, we use light trolling or level wind reels coupled with long (10’6) medium weight rods or, for even more excitement, salt water fly reels.

Nothing compares to the fight of a big king salmon on fly gear and light line! Be prepared for a 30 to 45 minute battle. When fish are actively feeding on the surface, casting with light tackle can be an exciting alternative. We use only high quality light tackle to keep the SPORT in your sport fishing!

Halibut Fishing
Jigging for Halibut has proven so successful we seldom do anything else. We don’t use 5 pounds of lead, a winch and a broom stick to fish like most places in Alaska. Whenever possible, we fish shallow water for these pacific monsters making the fight even more exhilarating!

When jigging, we use comparatively “light” halibut gear, but for the real “sport fishing enthusiast” we use “ultra light weight” 10-20 lb class bait casting and spinning gear. Our guides do their best to stay on the “cutting” edge of angling techniques. Our favorite method for bottom fishing incorporates the use of high quality metal butterfly and knife jigs, coupled with highly responsive light weight jigging rods and no stretch micro fiber lines. Using this system will give you the “fight of your life”, even with 20 to 30 lb fish. Occasionally we land fish in excess of 100 lbs on these light rigs. A – line class world record- fishing experience!

Today’s Universal Fly Fishing Tip is one that most anglers know, but few actually follow through on. After a day or a week or fishing, make sure you dry out your gear well.

Gear that gets stored wet gets nasty. Waders stink, rod socks mildew, flies rust and backing turns black. When you’re done with your fishing session, make sure you get all your gear dry.

That means…

• Hang up your waders inside out so any sweaty condensation dries out. Go to the extra effort of pulling your stocking feet inside out – they’ll get really nasty otherwise.
• Take your rod socks of of their tubes and unroll them.
• Hang up your raincoat and take everything out of its pockets.
• Set out your wading boots.
• Open up your fly boxes. If you’ve got a bunch of matted down flies all crammed in there together (say with marabou or bunny fur), spread them out.
• Take the covers off your reels.
• Unzip the pockets on boat bags, hip packs, etc.
• Open up any waterproof cases (like that Pelican case for your camera) that might have gotten a tiny bit of moisture in them – those cases keep water in as well as they keep it out.
• Do your laundry right now, you slob

by Deneki Outdoors

This is our weekly point, counter point post on various Sportsmen issues from both sides. 

In 1971, an unprecedented public outcry moved Congress to unanimously pass the Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act, granting federal protection to America’s wild horses and burros as “living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West.

Today there are thousands of wild mustangs that run wild through out the west. The roundup is part of the Bureau of Land Management’s overall strategy to remove thousands of mustangs from public lands across the West to protect wild horse herds and the rangelands that support them. The bureau estimates about half of the nearly 37,000 wild mustangs live in Nevada, with others concentrated in Arizona, California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming.

The BLM roundups wild horses every year by using helicopters to herd the horses into pens and holding areas.  The BlM states that:

• It is necessary to manage the number of wild horses so they don’t impact the land they roam on.
• The carrying capacity is limited and the number of mustangs exceeds the lands ability to maintain the herd.
• If the mustangs aren’t managed and the numbers kept in check then they risk starving and a slow death.
• Too many horses impact the range land and vegetation for other wild animals as well as cattle that share the land.

For me this issue hits close to home.  I live in Central Idaho and we have wild horses right here in my back yard near Challis Idaho.  Last year they did a round up and several horses were killed.  The wild mustang has been here a long time and we need to find a better way to ensure there is a blance for all our wildlife.  I beleive some things need to managed in order that we have balance but the wild horse and rounds ups I am not a fan of here in Idaho.

Chris Burget

On the other side of the issue are groups that oppose the practice of rounding up wild horses with helicopters and call for the ban of all roundups.

• The Wild Mustang is an iconic symbol and should be left to roam freely.
• The BLM’s practice of using helicopter to round the horses up causes serious injury and death to many horses each year.
• The BLM’s wild horse program cost about $50 million this year and is expected to rise to at least $85 million by 2012 if the program is not changed, which comes from tax payers dollars

Lori Mcnee

 http://www.bullsandbeavers.com/2010/01/16/wild-horses/

http://rtfitch.wordpress.com/2010/02/26/california-senator-quizzes-salazar-on-his-deadly-wild-horse-fiasco/

These are two sides of the issue.  We want to hear from you on whether you feel the BLM  should round up wild horses.  Share your experience and or encounters with the wild mustang.  Whatever your experience is we want to hear both sides.

This is going to be our weekly point, counter point post on various Sportsmen issues from both sides. 

The first issue that we are discussing and looking for our readers feedback is on the Gray wolf.  Do you feel the Gray Wolf should have been reintrduced in Idaho and Montana?  If you had asked me back in 1995 when we reintroduced the wolf my answer would have been no. I live amongst the ranchers and felt that there was a reason they were removed in the first place and we should leave it alone and not open pandoras box.

Fast forward to today and my answer would change for several reasons.  Now that the wolf is here and has been removed form the endangered species we need wolf management in order to keep the numbers in check.  Many people feel that there should be no management and that the only reason we want to keep the numbers in check is so we can hunt the elk and deer. 

• There is some logic to that and if  you look at the ecomic benefit of hunting and fees to our state each year then yes I say we need to keep this predator in check. 
•  We know that each year the wolf numbers continue to grow despite our first hunting season on the wolf.  The wolf predation and cost to ranchers livestock continues to climb despite efforts to minimize conflicts.  
• Farmers and ranchers have a right to protect their livestock and as hunters we have a right to protect our elk, deer and moose so that there is a balance for all. 
• Today we have over a 1,000 wolves in Idaho and Montana and they have been removed from the Endangered Species List.

Chris Burget

On the other side of the issue are various groups that oppose hunting and management of the Wolf. 

• Hunters just want more deer and elk to hunt. 
• The wolf is a key stone species that benefits the environment by keeping elk herds in check.
• The reintroduction of the Wolf has had a positive impact on vegetation especially aspen trees and willows by keeping the herds on the move.
• If you don’t eat the animal you take then you should not kill it.
• How can you cull a Wolf that so closely resembles your dog.

Lori McNee

These are two sides of the issue.  We want to hear from you on whether you feel the wolf should have been reintroduced.  Share your expierence and or encounters with the wolf.  Have you seen one in the wild or have you lost a guard dog or livestock to one.  Have you been to Yellowstone and heard the howl of the Gray Wolf.  Whatever your expierence is we want to hear both sides.

  http://www.bullsandbeavers.com/2010/01/17/the-call-of-the-grey-wolf/ 

In lots of trout fishing situations, you don’t need a drag system that’s capable of stopping a locomotive. There, we said it!

Slapping a mega-reel on a lightweight trout rod isn’t going to result in an outfit that’s well-balanced. And really, you don’t need all that technology most of the time.

If you’re targeting trout that are less than gigantic, the drag on your reel really needs to do two things well.

• Engage easily and allow line to peel off the reel smoothly, protecting light tippets.
• Keep your reel from backlashing on a fast run.

For small- to moderate-sized trout and lightweight rods, one of the reels that we think you should check out is the Sage Click.

Here’s why we like Sage Click reels.

• They’re lightweight.
• They’re really simple and the clicker drag is super smooth.
• They retain one really important element of modern reel design – a very large arbor. This allows for fast line pickup and less memory when your line and leader come off the reel.

We fished the Sage Click III with a 7 foot 4 weight on some tiny water in Southern Chile last week, and we loved it. The outfit balanced great and the drag did an excellent job, even on some fish that were quite a bit bigger than expected. Nothing wrong with that.

by Deneki Outdoors

The Kazakhs of Mongolia train their eagles to hunt and here the bird of prey is often considered a family member. The Berkutchi is a falconer who hunts with the Golden Eagle. The training of this bird was seen as difficult and even perilous even by the experienced Synchy. the bird is never a slave of its owner, only a partner in hunting.

From ancient times, berkutchi-falconers in the nomadic herder societies had the role of preserving and stocking furs. The high social status of the berkutchi and his family was conditioned by the climate, as warm strong and durable clothing for the people during the winter seasons was a vital necessity. Best-suited for this were the pelts of wolves and foxes.

Apart from hunting, berkutchi can give spiritual support to pregnant women, who experience or may experience difficulties in childbirth. Through the owner of the bird, which in the imagination of Asian peoples is a symbol of well-being and power. According to folk wisdom, a berkutchi is the indisputable authority in the sphere of childbirth or of renewing fertility. In the cultures of many nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples of Asia, it is said that a berkutchi, regardless of age, can make pregnant a woman who for a long time had not had children.

Wyoming is on the verge of passing two key pieces of gun rights legislation.

HB-95, The Wyoming Firearms Freedom Act, and HB-113 “Alaska-style” permit-less concealed carry, are facing an up-or-down vote before the Wyoming State House of Representatives.

On Tuesday, National Association for Gun Rights Director of Operations Luke O’Dell was on hand to testify before the Wyoming State House Judiciary Committee on behalf of both HB-95, the Wyoming Firearms Freedom Act, and the HB-113, “Alaska-style” permit less carry.

You may be asking yourself, “Why do I care, I don’t live in Wyoming?”

It’s simple: The higher the bar is set, the more pro-gun pieces of legislation pass across the country, the stronger the gun rights movement gets.

Passage of permit-less “Alaska-style” concealed carry in Wyoming would be a huge step forward toward true firearms freedom. Only in Alaska and Vermont can law-abiding citizens carry concealed firearms for their own protection without getting Big Brother’s approval. Should Wyoming join their ranks, the right-to-carry will have taken a major step forward.

Additionally, Wyoming’s Firearms Freedom Act was written with much stronger language than similar legislation in other states. Wyoming’s bill included penalties for state law enforcement enforcing Federal laws which contradict Wyoming state law.

I’m happy to say that Wyoming Gun Owners, a partner of ours, has been leading the charge for both pieces of legislation.

Now it’s our turn to help out.

If you live in Wyoming, or know someone who does, please have them contact their Wyoming legislator and tell them to vote “Yes” on HB-95 and HB-113.

You can find contact information for Wyoming State Legislators here.

If you’re not from Wyoming, go ahead and drop them a line anyways. Tell them that you support their efforts to advance freedom in Wyoming.

For Liberty,
Dudley Brown
Executive Director
National Association for Gun Rights

*Help fight gun control. Donate to the National Association for Gun Rights!

donate

The E-Z Open knife was invented and field tested by professional hunter Rick Young. The E-Z Open Metolius is 9” long and made from 440A Stainless Steel with a firmly embedded composite ball for guiding the blade between the animal skin and muscle structure.

By cutting from the inside outward in long continuous cuts, the tool ensures clean cuts and eliminates problems with opening the entrails during field dressing. Here are my thoughts:

Ease of Use:
Super easy to use. ‘Nuf said.

Functionality:
The knife performed exactly as it was supposed to. The ball on the end, although it looks kind of goofy, keeps the blade from getting into the guts and opened up the badger just like a zipper. Mutch better than traditional hook knives.

Is it Practical?
It is practical for most situations, although I don’t believe that I would keep one in my day pack if I was on a strenuous hunt such as archery elk. In that case it would be an extra knife and not a neccesity. That isn’t to say that I wouldn’t keep it in my truck though. If I was hunting on a stand, I would definately take it along.

Will My Buddies Make Fun of Me?
They might at first, because like I said before, it kind of looks weird with that ball on the end. Once they use it though, the jokes will be over.

TOTAL SCORE:
If you’re in the market for a good knife, check out: www.rickyoungoutdoors.com.

This year Simms came out with ‘version 2′ of their hooded softshell, and it’s called the Guide Windstopper Jacket.

Here’s what we like about the Guide Windstopper Jacket.

* It’s a little warmer than the Softshell Hoody. In some areas of the jacket, the softshell material has been replaced by Windstopper fleece – which makes for more warmth and comfort, if a little less water repellancy.
* It’s got 4 pockets that are easily accessible when you’re fishing. To us that’s a good, but not excessive number.
* The hood kicks butt. It’s removable, although we probably won’t ever remove it. It’s cut great, it’s really comfortable, and the stretchy non-adjustable shock cord seems to work just about perfectly, especially when you’re wearing a baseball hat.

At $249.95, this thing ain’t cheap. But you know what? We live in a part of the world where it rains so much that moss removal applies to our beards as well as our lawns, and we still wear softshells like this one more than our Gore-Tex. A high quality softshell is going to treat you right, and we like this one an awful lot.

Columbia may not be the brand of choice for the hardcore hunters out there, but for someone looking to get some decent gear for a reasonable price, Columbia is right up your ally. For you skiers out there, Columbia makes some of the best jackets and pants available, in many styles and colors.

Columbia Sportswear can be found in almost any sporting goods store across the country. So not only is it great gear at decent prices, it is also very easily accessible. How can you beat that?

Petzl Zipka Specifications
The Petzl Zipka weighs 2.07 oz (59 g) with 3xAAA batteries. It is a 3-LED headlamp with batteries in the lamp housing (front). The headband is a spring-loaded retractable cord.

Usability
The Petzl Zipka does not have a pivoting head but I have found the natural angle of the lamp to be correct for most tasks, and some adjustment is possible by changing the location of the headlamp housing on the forehead.

The Zipka-Tikka headlamp line has always been assumed to be a short range task light. However, with fresh batteries (which last a long time), the Petzl Zipka is bright enough to illuminate a large area over a short distance and is even appropriate for off-trail navigation.

Weaknesses
The Petzl Zipka’s primary weakness is the difficulty in changing batteries in cold conditions. Its single mode of brightness may be perceived by some to be a disadvantge, but Petzl offers the Zipka Plus for those who want the advanced circuitry of a multi-mode headlamp.

Strengths
The Petzl Zipka is an outstanding performer. I have always been impressed with its beam quality, brightness, and compact form factor. Further, its cold-conditions performance is surprising, considering that it uses alkaline AAA batteries (which currently have no Lithium option). For its weight, it’s hard to find a headlamp that is as simple to operate, or is a better all-around performer.

Daniel Swarovski started his Austrian Precision Crystal cutting company in 1895 with the motto “Constantly improving what is good.” And they are good glass. That’s a fact. I’ve had many different brands and models of binoculars over the years as a guide and had always wanted a pair of Swarovski’s, but it just wasn’t in the budget. A few years ago while guiding, one of my hunters gave his Sworovski 8×30 SLC’s to me as a tip. I was estatic to say the least.

At the time, I thought I wanted 10×42’s but after using my “eight’s” for several seasons now and comparing them to friends’ “ten’s” I have to say that I have come to prefer them for several reasons. They are compact, light weight, offer reasonable performance in evening and early morning light, and they do not have so much magnification that a sharp image is difficult to achieve when they are handheld. With 8×32 binos, a really good depth of field is achievable with the focus set to around 150 yards, ranging from that distance to several miles in sharp focus. When the glass is set like this, for hunting purposes, one rarely needs to touch the focus adjustment at all.

Swarovski’s current binocular flagship series, the roofprism EL model have been around for several years now and if I was in the market for new binos, that would be what I’d choose, although they are NOT cheap.

Specs:

• Exit pupil diameter, 4mm.
• Eye relief, 15mm.
• The field of view, 420 feet @ 1000yds
• Close focus, 6.1 feet.
• Diopter adjustment, +/- 3.
• The twilight factor, 16.
• Length, 5.4 inch
• Width, 4.5 inch
• Tube diameter, 2.4 inch
• Weight, 610 grams or 21.5 ounces
• Body material, magnesium alloy with a textured green rubber armor coating
• Waterproof to 13 feet
• Warrantee, 30 years

Improvements:
Features include twist up eyecups, Swarobright phase coated prisms, plus a new patented lens multi-coating that renders true colour fidelity. This is rather an important move for Swarovski, as the Habicht line (and the earlier SLC roof prism models) had lens surface coatings that rendered a rather warmer image than the true colors of the object being viewed.

Swarovski have put much thought into the ergonomics of the EL series and reduced quite a bit of weight (compared to their SLC range) by designing an open bridge that offers a good solid grip at all times. Swarovski make much of the fact that the ELs can be used one handed, but of course to a certain extent doing this negates the purpose of buying top line glass, because it is nearly impossible to hold any optical device steady with one hand. Nevertheless, due to their extremely intelligent design, these binos can in fact be held in many comfortable positions, courtesy of the open bridge and the tactile rubber armoring.

There are comfortable thumb depressions strategically placed under each barrel that enhance the handling of the binos. Further, the neckstrap is wide and distributes the weight well so the glasses can be carried around the neck all day without discomfort.

The objective lenses are set back sufficiently to afford good protection from the elements in general usage and have they have a hard rubber surround from the body armouring.

The eyecups are fully adjustable in any position and provide a full view for eyeglass wearers through the large diameter eyepieces; they are also removable for cleaning.

I did like the method of setting the diopter, which is incorporated into the large, finely grooved focus wheel. First, focus the binos for the left eye, (as is normal), then pull the focus wheel rearwards for about four millimetres, close your left eye and rotate the wheel until the image through the right barrel comes sharp. Push the focus wheel forward to lock the setting. There is a graduated scale on the wheel for the + – three diopter setting range. This method of setting is simple, fast and impossible to inadvertently move out of adjustment.

Some reviewers have criticized the EL series as being geared too low in the focusing wheel, others like it. I find the slower gearing excellent, the image comes into sharp focus very smoothly and easily, compared to the high gearing on my Minox 8×32 roof prisms. With these it is very easy to over-shoot the sharp focus point, which then involves a bit of back and forth readjustment of the wheel to sharpen the image.

Entirely practical front and rear caps come with these binos, they are easy to unlatch to view through and simple to click back into place. These are the first objective lens covers that I would leave in place and actually use should I ever own a pair of Els.

Well, it’s official. We’re headed to South Africa. I think every red-blooded American male has dreamed of going to Africa, and We’re not any different. We’re excited to say the least. Our trip is in May and guess what? We need some people to go with me. Wanna go?

What we’ve done is work with one of our South African PH’s to secure three good blocks of time and some GREAT prices. You could do the whole trip for about the same price as a good whitetail hunt here in the states. It’s cheap!

But, there’s a catch…yeah, there’s always a catch. You have to be willing to let us film your hunt for our upcoming show. That’s not too much to ask, is it? If you agree to let us film you hunting, not only will you get a deal on one of the great packages below, but we’ll throw in an Impala and Blesbuck for FREE! So what do you think?

1. Rifle Hunt – Five Animals
   – 7 day hunt for a group 8 hunters
   – May 6-12
   – 5 animal hunt *Kudu, Gemsbuck, Springbuck, Mountain Reedbuck, Steenbuck
   – These animals can be substituted for animals of the same price on price list
   – $4,750 *all inclusive hunt (excluding air and tip)
2. Archery Hunt – Five Animals
   – 10 day hunt for a group 6 hunters
   – May 13-22
   – 5 animal hunt *Blue Wildebeest, Warthog, Kudu, Springbuck, Impala
   – These animals can be substituted for animals of the same price on price list
   – $6,000 *all inclusive hunt (excluding air and tip)
3. Archery/Rifle Combo Hunt – Five Animals
   – 7 day hunt for a group 6 hunters
   – May 23-30
   – 5 animal hunt *Kudu, Gemsbuck, Springbuck, Mountain Reedbuck, Steenbuck
   – These animals can be substituted for animals of the same price on price list
   – $5,000 *all inclusive hunt (excluding air and tip)

In 2010 Bulls & Beavers will be discussing important issues from the wolf reintroduction, wild horses, BLM, health of our rivers, hunting rights, second amendment, salmon, conservation and getting our youth both boys and girls into the outdoors.  Every state has issues that affect the outdoor sportsmen and we want to hear from you. 

In California they have banned mountian lion hunting, New Jersey we are seeing hunting rights attacked on all sides.  We understand that these are sensitive issues for some and most of us are passionate about the way we feel.  Here at Bulls & Beavers we want to build a community where people can agree to disagree in a respectful way. Robust dialogue is healthy so don’t be afraid to express your views. 

Here are a few posts that we have written over the last year on several of these important issues.

The Call of the Grey Wolf

Encounters

The Ancient Art of Hunting and Preserving its Sacred Traditions

Hunting & Fishing is a Multi-Billion Dollar Corporation

Wild Horses

Do You Stand Out? Why Outdoorsmen & Women Should use Social Media for 2010

Hunting Ain’t just for Rednecks

For the Ages

Bulls & Beavers Tags along with Boulder Creek Outfitters for a Hunt of a Lifetime

Im a BullEAVER

B&B meets up with Ted Nugent. Music, Views and the Spirit of the Wild.

Garmin’s newest line of trail handheld GPS systems is the X-Series. The X-Series units are made for high performance and durability. These units give improved satellite reception in heavy tree cover or in deep canyons. One of the neatest features of the X-Series units is the SD memory card capabilities. This allows you to go to a retailer (Cabela’s for example) and purchase a SD card that is preloaded with detailed information on the specific place where you are hunting or hiking (trails, topography, etc). These features make the Garmin X-series a dream for any outdoorsman.

The nice thing about Coast Del Mar glasses is that you don’t have to sacrifice style for performance. Costa Del Mar offers many frame style and sizes to fit and look great on anyone and all glasses come with their top of the line polarized lenses. Not only can you get top quality performance with Costa Del Mar glasses, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get them. The majority of Costa Del Mar’s glasses can be purchased for between $100-$200.

Nicholas Coleman was born in Provo, Utah, the son of artist Michael Coleman. Brought up in an artistic environment, Coleman has been painting and drawing for as long as he can remember. He has traveled extensively, painting studies and taking photographs for later works. His travels have taken him across North America, through Africa, and Europe. Coleman lived and worked in Brazil for two years. Coleman finds inspiration through his travels, and the hunting and fishing he does along the way, as well as in history, art museums and other artists. These include his father Michael Coleman, Bruno Liljefors, Wilhelm Kuhnert, Carl Rungius,Thomas Moran, Albert Bierstadt, and Frank Tenney Johnson. (The list could go on and on.)Coleman uses a traditional academic approach in his painting, using gouache and oil. However, he doesn’t like to label his style as “realism,” as there is a certain amount of spontaneity and a slight impressionistic feel to his paintings. Coleman endeavors to create a connection between his paintings and the observer by invoking a mood that the viewer can walk into.He plans to continue working hard at what he loves; his father told him, “you are only as good as your last painting,” so Coleman continually strives to improve his abilities. Never one to miss an opportunity, he also wants to improve his etching and sculpting skills.

Visit Nicholas Coleman’s Website

Under Armour first made a name for itself by introducing it’s form-fitting, moisture-wicking apparel to athletes, to be worn under uniforms. Since then, the company has continued to evolve, branching out to meet the needs of new and unique customer bases, one of them being hunters.

Under Armour has since come out with an entire line of apparel for hunters. While everything Under Armour makes is very high quality, their best products hands down are their base layers. This was what the company was built around and once you try it, you will know why. They offer several thicknesses of base layer, but their “Cold Gear” is the most popular. Under Armour Cold Gear will keep you warm and dry in almost any condition.

One of the most fun and exciting summer adventures for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors is white water rafting. Whitewater rafting not only offers a thrill that can fill the need of almost any adrenaline junky, it also offers you a chance to connect with nature in some of the most beautiful spots on the planet.

Here are a few of some of the highest rated rafting spots in the United States:

The Grand Canyon- Not only do you get to look up in every direction at one of, if not THE most amazing sites in the world, but you also get to take on class 4 and 5 rapids while doing it. You can raft for a single day, or take up to a 7 day trip and see the entire 280 miles of the canyon.

North Country Rivers- For those of you looking for a whitewater adventure on the east coast, the North Country Rivers in Maine is the destination for you. This area offers three world class rivers that offer a little something for anyone seeking adventure and fun.

Middle Fork of the Salmon River- Located in central Idaho, the Salmon river offers scenic views mixed with some great rapids. It is not the wildest river out there, but it offers a challenge and is a great intro to whitewater rafting. This stretch of river is highly recommended for family trips.

Gauley River- Located in West Virginia, the Gauley River is your best option on the east coast for wild and highly technical rapids. Not the longest stretch of river that you will find, but one day that this pace will be sure to give you your fill of adrenaline.

Snake River- The stretch of the Snake River that runs through Northwest Wyoming not only offers class 3 and 4 rapids, but it takes you through some of the most beautiful country in the United States. On this trip, you will have the opportunity to see the backcountry of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Stacey Huston has been working on her site/blog for over a year now, and has asked her husband “Hawk” to join her with his fantastic writing skills. Together they hope to share a little of their world, and their passion for all things wild with each and every one of you.

Visit Stacey’s Website

Through direct involvement and partnerships with other conservation organizations, SCI contributes to dozens of projects in the United States and Canada every year. Earlier this year, Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Mossy Oak joined forces to help ensure healthy white-tail deer populations throughout North America. They have provided funding for white-tailed deer research at the University of Georgia and the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study.

The project will investigate reasons for expansion of epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses (EHDV) and bluetongue viruses (BTV), better define the impacts of these viruses on deer populations, and then develop recommendations to control and curtail spread of the diseases if possible. The research findings will be shared with the hunting public and wildlife professionals to better maintain healthy white-tailed deer populations throughout North America.

On the West Coast, SCI’s efforts also contributed to the successful vote by the California Fish and Game Commission against extending the current lead ammunition ban for big game hunting to the hunting of small game and upland birds in so-called condor “range.” SCI filed comments that agreed with the finding of the California Fish and Game Department that the extension of the ban was not supported by the science.

The participation of Safari Club International (SCI) in a federal lawsuit has helped ensure that hunters in Idaho and Montana can continue hunting wolves under state seasons. The Montana federal court denied a preliminary injunction requested by Defenders of Wildlife and other plaintiffs who sued to stop the hunting season, and to challenge the delisting of Idaho and Montana’s wolves.

SCI was also instrumental in successfully challenging the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s ban on the import of polar bears from Canada. When the FWS listed the polar bear as threatened in May 2008, it also determined that imports of polar bear legally hunted from approved populations in Canada would no longer be allowed, as they had been for the previous 12 years. In June, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia rebuffed the FWS’s attempt to have SCI’s lawsuit dismissed without full briefing on the merits.

Another key research project funded by SCI involves the decline of woodland caribou in northern Quebec and Labrador. The caribou herds are vital to the local Inuit and Cree Indians who hunt them for subsistence, but also rely on income generated from guiding and outfitting hunters. Early indications have shown that loss of habitat and predation by black bears are two crucial factors that need to be addressed in order to preserve this resource and hunting opportunity.

These are just a few examples of the conservation efforts in North America that are made possible through the generous support of its Convention exhibitors, donors, advertisers, members and corporate sponsors. For more information on these and other conservation projects in North America, visit the SCI web site at www.safariclub.org.

SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 190 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Despite Idaho’s first Wolf hunt with about two months left to go in the season the wolf packs have been increasing.  Close to a 150 wolves have been killed to date and half of the states’s hunting zones have been closed.  For the full story go to the Idaho Mountain Express. 

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http://www.mtexpress.com/index2.php?ID=2005129941&var_Year=2010&var_Month=02&var_Day=05

Idaho Mountain Express, Jon Duval: jduval@mtexpress.com

Learn the Basics of Turkey Hunting and Calling

It’s just about that time of year. I dusted off the turkey calls last night and thought a post on turkey calling may be in order. Wild turkey calling takes time and effort to learn, and knowing the basics of wild turkey vocalizations is crucial to being able to use different calls successfully. Wild turkeys make at least eight different calls, as well as several subtypes of calls that are season specific. You don’t need to know them all, just the major ones which are:

Cluck:
The cluck consists of one or more short, staccato notes. The plain cluck, many times, includes two or three single note clucks. It’s generally used by one bird to get the attention of another. It’s a good call to reasure an approaching gobbler that a hen is waiting for him.

Yelp:
The yelp is a basic turkey sound. It is often delivered in a series of single note vocalizations and can have different meanings depending on how the hen uses it.

Kee Kee Run:
The kee kee is the lost call of young turkeys and variations made by adult birds. It’s often associated with fall hunting, but can be used successfully in the spring. This is what it sounds like. A variation of the call, the kee kee run is merely a kee kee with a yelp.

Purr:
Purring is a soft, rolling call turkeys make when content. It can usually be heard by feeding birds. This is not a loud call, but is good for reassuring turkeys as they get in close to your position.

Cutt:
A series of fast, loud, erratic single notes is referred to as cutting. It’s a modified cluck and is a distinct abrupt call with a somewhat questioning nature. It can be heard at a great distance and is often used by a single turkey looking for companionship.

How to call Turkeys:
For successful turkey calling, you should use use multiple calls. The first step would be to start with a locator call, which are used to simulate loud noises or other animals that gobblers will respond to such as owls or crows. Use short locater calls and listen for a response. Once you feel that you have found a proper location with turkeys in your range, then it’s time to use your vocalization calls.

You should start off using your vocalization calls more quietly and then gradually increase volume. A soft “cluck”, “yelp”, or “purr” are good initial calls to use. This way you won’t scare off any nearby turkeys that you can’t see with a loud call. If you hear responses from a gobbler you have to be patient as many times they won’t close in on you right away. Wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before responding to a gobbler’s call. Be sure to keep trying to call a slow moving gobbler for at least an hour before you give up.

If you hear hens, you should respond to their calls with the same number of calls and the same vocalization. For instance, if you hear a hen cluck 5 times, you should respond with 5 clucks. This will encourage her to come towards your location. This will also help to lure gobblers that are in the vicinity of the hen. There is no secret to calling turkeys. Each turkey will respond to your calls in its own unique way. Turkey calling is an art that takes time and experience to master, so get out there and have some fun!

I get asked all the time what type of .22 parents should get their kids, so I did a little research and here you go. For my kids’ first gun, we went with a cheap bb gun. Nothing fancy, just something so they could learn the mechanics of loading, cocking, aiming and firing. It didn’t take my son long and he wanted to “graduate”, so we looked at air rifles first, but then decided on a .22 rifle (I almost went with a .17, but that was more for me, so I restrained myself).

I already have 3 or 4 .22’s around the house, but they were all too long for my son and not the right gun for him. So here are some good choices for your kids.

Basically, there are a few different kinds of rifle available for the new shooter: the single-shot bolt action, the bolt action repeater, the lever action repeater, the pump-action repeater, and the the semi-auto repeater.

I’m a fan of single-shot bolt action rifles for first-time shooters, because shooting them requires several steps for loading, time to think about each shot, and the whole process is suitable for teaching. For smaller-statured kids, there’s probably no better than Keystone Arms’ Crickett, which comes in several kid-pleasing colors:

Keystone Arms’ Crickett comes in several kid-pleasing colors

The little Cricketts are just over two feet in total length, weigh pretty much nothing, and are excellent “starter” rifles.

If you’d like something a little more classy, then the Savage Cub is a pretty little thing:

The Savage Cub is a pretty little thing

…the Marlin 915Y isn’t a bad choice either:

The Marlin915 aint bad either.

If your kids are older, and close to adult size, you may want to look at the Stevens Favorite:

Try the Stevens Favorite for older kids

If the budget’s an issue, which it is for me, then a cheaper option is the H&R Sportster:

The H&R’s 5lb weight makes it a natural for kids.

When it comes to affordable bolt-action repeating rifles, my pick is the Marlin 981T. It holds 14 rounds, the action is smooth, and the trigger is good.

A very accurate rifle

For about the same money, you could look at the Savage Mk II series (the only budget .22 rifle available left-hand):

The Savage also has the excellent “Accu-Trigger”, and has a removable 10-round magazine

Lever-action repeating rifles, are more expensive than both the above types. Probably the most common is the Marlin 39A:

the action of the “39” has had the longest uninterrupted production run (since 1891) of any rifle type in existence

Speaking of old-timers, one of the oldest names in rifles is “Henry”, and the Henry Repeating Arms Company makes a very pretty (but quite spendy) lever-action .22 rifle, the Golden Boy:

A good lookin’ gun, but I’m not sure it’s a great choice for kids.

When I was a kid, I had a pump-action repeater, but sadly, the market for them is not big—and I can’t understand why because pump-action .22 rifles are a blast (pardon the pun) to shoot. Winchester no longer makes their ancient Model 62, and even Taurus’s faithful copy, also called Model 62, seems to be getting hard to find. Here’s the Taurus 62R:

Pump action .22s are my favorites

Henry also makes a pump-action rifle, and it has a cool looking octagonal barrel, but it’s more expensive.

If you want to know, I’d get a Henry Octagon in a heartbeat.

And finally, there’s the Remington Mod 572 Fieldmaster.

This is what I had as a kid. I loved this gun.

Now, the only category left is the semi-auto repeater. In my humble opinion, these aren’t the right choice for a kids first gun, so I’m not going to list my picks here. I hope this helps, and I know I’m probably going to get some argument from you. Let me know what you think.

As an artist, there is a tremendous feeling of satisfaction that comes from capturing that special moment in paint. In a world filled with chaos, I hope my art brings something peaceful and comforting to the viewer. I strive to evoke a sense of mystery, beauty and drama.

Visit Lori McNee’s Website

by Deneki Outdoors

Pretty cool, actually. Photo: Cameron Miller

True, not many anglers head to Alaska specifically to target pink salmon. That’s OK though – we still think they’re pretty awesome fish. Here’s why.

1. Every other year there are billions of them. OK, not billions, but on even-numbered years on the Kanektok, our pink numbers are very, very large.
2. They eat poppers. Find ‘em where they’re fresh, and they’re more than happy to eat surface flies, and surface flies for salmon are cool.
3. They’re a ton of fun on a 6 weight. It may not be a big-game experience, but fishing a lighter-weight rod can be a nice break when you’ve spent most of your week pulling on the big boys.
4. They make a great shore lunch. Pinks don’t keep well in your freezer over the winter, but on the bank of the river, just minutes from swimming, they’re awfully delicious.
5. They’re great for kids. We love hosting family groups, and pinks are ‘friends of the family’! Easy to hook and fun to fight, but not too heavy or powerful…perfect.
6. Their metamorphosis is pretty amazing. All salmon change physically when they enter fresh water, but a pink’s Jekyll and Hyde transition from silver and slender to pink, toothy and humpbacked is just a neat natural thing to witness.

This year we saw many positive signs from the 2010 SHOT Show at the industry’s annual trade show — the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show –

The show’s return to Las Vegas sparked a rise in attendance over the previous year, with buyers packing exhibit booths to review products and then placing orders on the latest shooting, hunting and outdoor gear. Overall attendance was 58,444.

SHOT Show Thrives in Las Vegas http://goo.gl/fb/xmO7

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish

ATTENTION HUNTERS: APPLY BY FEB. 3 FOR ORYX, WMA BEAR, SPECIAL TURKEY AND POPULATION REDUCTION HUNTS

SANTA FE — Wednesday, Feb. 3, is the deadline to apply for New Mexico 2010-2011 oryx licenses, bear Wildlife Management Area permits, population reduction hunts and special spring turkey permits. Online applications must be made before 5 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline day. Paper applications must be delivered or postmarked on or before the deadline day.

To be eligible for the drawing, all hunters must obtain a Customer ID Number — online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us or by visiting a Department office in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Raton, Las Cruces or Roswell. Customer ID Numbers are free and are required whether applications are made online or on paper applications.

Online applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing the deadline because of forgotten passwords or other computer-related issues at the last minute. Late applications will not be accepted. Drawing results will be available March 10 on the Department Web site, www.wildlife.state.nm.us, or in person at Department of Game and Fish offices. Results will be available by telephone March 25.

The Department expects to receive more than 18,000 applications for approximately 3,000 licenses and permits. About 16,000 of those applications will be for 2,215 available oryx licenses.

Hunters who held deer permits or elk licenses for the 2009-2010 season must have reported their harvest results before applying. Hunters who fail to report their 2009-2010 harvest results — successful or not — will have their 2010-2011 applications rejected. Harvest reports can be submitted online at www.newmexico-hunt.com or by calling toll-free (888) 248-6866.

For more information about big-game hunting in New Mexico, please consult the 2010-2011 Big Game & Trapper Rules and Information Booklet, available at all license vendors, Department offices, and online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Information also is available by calling (505) 476-8000.

“Hunting,” the Old Man said when my noise slacked off, “is the noblest sport yet devised by the hand of man. There were mighty hunters in the Bible, and all the caves where the cave men lived are full of carvings of assorted game the head of the house drug home. If you hunt to eat, or hunt for sport for something fine, something that will make you proud, and make you remember every single detail of the day you found him and shot him, that is good too.
“But if there’s one thing I despise it’s a killer, some blood-crazy idiot that just goes around bam-bamming at everything he sees. A man who takes pleasure in death just for death’s sake is rotten somewhere inside, and you’ll find him doing things later in life that’ll prove it.”

The Old Man and The Boy, by Robert Ruark:

Today, many people think of hunters as stone cold killers that don’t care about anything  but the kill.   There are  a few hunters like in every walk of life  that can give us a bad name.  The true hunter is respectful of others and of their property and has great respect for his prey, and will never, ever shoot when he doesn’t reasonably expect to kill cleanly. 

From the begging of time man has been hunting animals and painting their stories on cave walls to canvass to temple stone pillars.  I have always been amazed that we can look back in time and at the different animals early man hunted for survival along with the different methods and weapons.  There is so much we can learn from our history that has been passed down in the form of art. From the cave man days of survival up to the Egyptian times and our own Native American Indians,  man has been showing us many important lessons through art and passed down traditions.

 Toussenel said: “Hunting is the first and oldest ancient art.  Most scenes on the walls of the caves left for us by the Paleolithic men depict scenes of hunting wild animals. Hunting has always been present in art and culture, from poetry to painting.  Whether born and raised in the country or city. We are all descended from those cavemen and posses the hunters instinct. We hunt to live, we live to hunt.

Paleolithic men depict scenes of hunting wild animals

The Pharaohs depicted hunting scenes

Native American Indians hunting on horseback

 Native American Indians painted their hunts

 For me the biggest lesson and the one that needs to be passed down is the honor and respect for all animals.  It is not about the kill but about the hunt. Yes, I love back strap and every year I wait with anticipation of an early fall to put my skills to the test against natures most intelligent animals.  I think back to how our native American Indians respected their land and the animals they hunted.

  Traditions in the US are stronger than ever.  Just look at our holidays like the 4^thof July and Christmas. Hunting traditions, are also passed down but by fewer and fewer hunters.  These traditions vary depending on where you live and are just as important to our culture.

• The Germans honored the Stag by placing a twig in it’s mouth
• The Native Americans paused and gave thanks to the quarry for sharing it’s life so that they could feed their families.
• Ancient Greeks believed hunting was discovered by the gods
• Aristotle said that the hunt is just and natural, by means of which man claims what belongs to him but he must prove skill and knowledge for that.

 All over the country our hunting rights are being attacked.  From the banning of Mountain Lion hunts in California to the Black Bear in New Jersey.  Our hunting traditions and gun rights continue to be threatened due to high dollar campaigns from certain groups and  politicians. 

It is through time honored traditions of respect, that in the end will ensure and preserve the Ancient Art of Hunting.

Chris Burget - Bulls & Beavers LLC,  Copyright 2010

Bulls & Beavers’  “Best of the Best” award recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

 Jason Nash Communications & Events Manager for ATK Ammunition Systems receives the B&B “Best of the Best” award at the 2010 SHOT Show. Federal Premium ammunition offers some of the most technologically advanced sporting rifle ammunition available.

Bulls & Beavers  “Best of the Best” award recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

Leland Nichols Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing recieves the B&B “Best of the Best” award at the 2010 SHOT Show. 

Smith & Wesson is one of the world’s most recognizable brands, and for good reason. Since their doors first opened the focus has been on design and manufacturing innovative solutions that are unparalleled in the field of personal safety and protection. Almost every major law enforcement and military agency in the world has used Smith & Wesson products, and to this day, most police departments in the United States depend on their firearms and accessories.

“Best of the Best” Browning

Bulls & Beavers’ recognition of companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

Leland Nichols Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing

Bulls & Beavers recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

David Allen President & CEO of RMEF receives the B&B “Best of the Best” award at the 2010 SHOT Show.  RMEF’s 150,000 members whose support has protected and enhanced millions of acres of North American wildlife habitat. Hundreds of thousands of these acres offered extremely limited public access or were completely off-limits to the public. They are now open for all to hunt, fish and otherwise enjoy. We employ more than 150 people and boast more than 10,000 volunteers working through 550 chapters across the United States

Bulls & Beavers’ “Best of the Best” award recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

Justin Doucette Director, Product Marketing receives the B&B  “Best of the Best” award at the 2010 SHOT Show.

Magellan iphone product review

Bulls & Beavers “Best of the Best” award recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

This year we recognized the Outdoor Channel for it’s quality content.  Todd Merkow President of Digital Media for the Outdoor Channel  recieved the B&B “Best of the Best” award.

 The Outdoor Channel Founded by outdoorsmen for outdoorsmen, features quality programming designed to educate and entertain sportsmen of all skill levels. The channel promotes the traditional outdoor activities that are a vital part of our national heritage including fishing, hunting and shooting sports. The programs are designed to appeal to “traditional sportsmen” of all ages with a focus on activities that the entire family can enjoy in the great outdoors.

Bulls & Beavers’ “Best of the Best” recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

 Paul Thompson Media Relations & Trade Show Manager for Browning is presented with the B&B “Best of the Best” award.  Browning Arms Company has drawn a bead on the firearms market for more than 125 years. The company traces its roots to the late 19th Century, when John Moses Browning established his firearms factory in Utah. Mr. Browning, who earned many patents for his gunsmithing inventions, developed designs that were manufactured by Winchester, Colt, and Fabrique Nationale.

Bulls & Beavers’ ”Best of the Best” award recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

Tom Richardson Vice President , Sales is presented with the B&B’s “Best of theBest” award.  

Mag Instrument is dedicated to the highest standards of integrity. Each Mag Instrument flashlight represents a culmination of more than 20 years of research, development and continuous state-of-the-art refinement in every precision feature. Mag Instrument is proud to be a U.S.A. Manufacturer.

Product review on the MAglite’s XL 100

Bulls & Beavers’ recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

B&B presents Kevin Sloan President Sika Gear with our “Best of the Best” award for camo clothing. Sitka gear utilizes only the most advanced fabrics and construction technologies, Sitka designs gear that is engineered to work together as complete systems, excelling in performance, function, and protection. 

Bulls & Beavers’ “Best of the Best” award recognizes companies, organizations, products, and individuals who we believe demonstrate superior quality, service, or achievement supporting the pursuits of the outdoor sportsman.

Bulls & Beavers recognized Swarovski Optiks and presented Albert Wannenmacher CEO and Johannes Davoras Member of the Executive Board Marketing & Sales. 

Swarovski Z7 rifle scope product review

For those who don’t know Ted Nugent,  he  is a rock icon.  I grew up listening to Ted in the early 80’s and seeing him live in concert for the first time  was a real treat.  A friend of mine is good friends with Ted and arranged for a meeting with him prior to the show back stage not to mention front row seats.  The night started off  being picked up in a H2 hummer limo for the ride up to the Canyon Club north of LA.  Several local firefighters joined us for the concert. 

 Ted Nugent as much as he is known as a muscian is also know as a passionate voice for the outdoor sportsman and support of our true hereos.  He is intense on stage with limitless energy and yes he is 60.  From watching him up close you would not know he just had a knee surgery.  What I like about Ted is he says what’s on his mind.  You may not agree with him and maybe be offended by him. Oh well.  Ted talks about issues that all sportsman should be concerned about.  He makes it clear where he stands on issues like the 2nd amendment and in California the mountain lion controvery.  If you have not heard Ted speak on issues, do not form and opinion utill you hear his message.  Ted is articulate and passionate as he describes his view on the 2nd amendment in this interview.  (Ted’s Interview/ 2nd amend)

 At the concert last night Ted recogized our heros that were there from law enforcement, fire fighters and all branches of the military, Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines.  He starts off with the national anthem and ends with it as the Americn Flag is displayed on stage with him.  Also, on stage were of course 14 black M-16 rifles. 

As hunters and outdoorsmen we all need to be concerned with issues that attack both our 2nd amendment and our right to hunt.  We talk about sustainablity in our environment, there is no better resource than the deer, elk and other animals we hunt.  Hunting brings in big dollars as well through liscensing fees etc and allows us to manage our game animals.  

 After meeting Ted and listening to him in concert I am bigger BULLeaver than ever in his message and views on our right to bear arms and hunt. 

Thanks,

Chris Burget

Knife companies say it’s a tool. Tool companies say it’s a gadget.  Leatherman stands for quality and their products are used in both everyday life  as well as military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters.  Also ideal in the field or at your hunting cabin.

Skeletool (pictured at left in silver) is made for the rugged adventurers by stripping it down.  This new cyber look is designed for those  who count every ounce and still need the reliability and strength of a Leatherman.

Leatherman MUT

(Pictured at right in black) is the Leatherman  MUT.   In addition to its standard functions, the Leatherman MUT was designed for the following maintenance on the compononents of the M16/AR15 family of rifles.

Key Features:

• Needlenose Pliers are the centerpiece of any Leatherman.
• Stainless Steel hardwired cutters
• Replaceable Carbon Scraper
• Firearm Disassembly Punch
• Bolt Override Tool
• Cutting Hook

Great product to carry on every fishing trip,  hunting trip or on your next outdoor adventure.

They call this a show stopper and could stop just  about anything. For over 40 Years, LAR Manufacturing has been engineering and producing the highest quality firearms and accessories to Law Enforcement, Military, FFL Dealers, and Consumers. 

“Best of the Best”

Swarovski was founded 60 years ago, and has been committed to developing and producing  long-range sports optics with the highest precision and optical luminosity. Thee products developed by Swarovski have always taken their cue from the practical challenges which we as a hunter our faced with. At the same the protection of tradition in hunting is just as important to Swarovski as the technical enhancement of their rifle scopes.

With a passion for experiencing nature in all its intensity and our vision of imparting to you an understanding of the pleasure to be gained from observing and of the fascination for that which is hidden and beautiful, we invite you to visit our product worlds conceived and designed for your individual requirements.

All over the world, enthusiastic hunters, nature observers and birdwatchers, and those people who wish to make their travel and leisure activities unforgettable by gaining an individual perspective through high-quality long-range optics, place their trust in the long tradition and uncompromising quality of equipment by SWAROVSKI OPTIK.

For more information contact: www.swarovskioptik.us

The Stealth Cams are the most reliable scounting cameras on the market.  This product allows the hunter to be in the field months before opening day arrives.  The Stealth Cam has been tested in all weather conditions, every habitat scenario including the industry’s first High Definition Scouting IDVR (Infared Digital Video Recorder). For more information contact.  www.stealthcam.net

The Sure Strike Laser Bullet turns any real pistol or rifle into a laser emitting training simulation. Load the laser cartridge into the chamber and begin firing away at virtual scenes displayed on screen for your training and practice pleasure. The system is intended for military and law enforcement training but who doesn’t like lasers, especially when they’re attached to a gun?

When it comes to archery, you won’t be too successful unless you can properly aim. This is where Truglo comes in. Their Carbon XS archery sight is made of carbon-composite so it’s light weight and solid. It features fiber optic pins that illuminate with the push of a button and a glow in the dark shooter’s ring. It’s fully adjustable and includes a reversible bracket for greater vertical adjustability.  The sight comes in black and camo, so that you won’t be spotted when taking your aim. See www.truglo.com

First of all, who doesn’t love knives?  At the 2010 SHOT Show there is no shortage of sharp things.  The Metolius, Metolius Caper and the Metolius E-Z open all feature fixed blades.  It’s strong glass filled, Nylon handle fits comfortably and securely in your hands thanks to their Tachide TM overmold.  The E-Z open knife has a safety ball at the end of the blade that prevents puncturing.  For more information contact http://www.gerbertools.com/

The Remington Nitro Mag could be the most durable shotgun on the planet.  This armor clad -warrior is equipped to handle the most extreme conditions on the planet.  The exclusive Armorlokt  TM process seals the receiver and barrel in a vault of weather -impervious synthetic armor that’s both completely rust proof and touph as nails.  In addition, this gun features an extremely rugged synthetic stock and for-end are ergonomically contoured to offer a positive grip and comfortable handling.  For more information contact.  http://www.remington.com/

Arguably the most recognizable name in flashlights the world over, Maglite is known for quality, reliability and innovation. Debuted here at the 2010 SHOT show, the XL100 brings features never before seen in portable lighting devices. Their “Advanced Flashlight User Interface” utilizes motion to control everything from adjusting the brightness with the twist of your wrist to dimming when set down. The LED powered light produces a hefty 83 lumens and fits easily in the palm of your hand. Like the rest of their products this was built completely in the USA from the ground up. For more info see Maglite.

For everyone who is tired of using regular old Google maps on their iPhone for directions, there is now an alternative that offers turn by turn directions from a company who knows a few things about GPS navigation.  Magellan’s RoadMate software is available on the iTunes app store for $79.99. It virtually transforms your iPhone into a legitimate GPS device. If you want to take it one step further you can opt for the Premium Car Kit which sets up the phone for car use. The kit adds an extra GPS antenna for increased sensitivity and signal strength. The kit also acts as a fully functional iPod dock with an audio out and Bluetooth functionality. It retails for $129.99. See www.Magellan.com

Developed for law enforcement, this system places a micro camera above your ear and records video straight to a Linux based, weatherproof LCD touchscreen. The video is recorded at 720×480 resolution and the whole system is self contained and impressively compact. The intent is to capture more accurate video records during an officer’s encounters, and to allow for greater accountability when required. The system includes an online, cloud based, media management program that provides realtime access and analytics for the uploaded videos. Total price, including software subscription is $5,700 per officer. See www.Taser.com

ESS High Adrenaline Sunglasses bring protection to your eyes.  These products are designed to take on the most hostile and unforgiving environments on the planet.  ESS products feature cutting- edge technologies and patented innovations to ensure peak performance and uncompromising eye safety.  These glasses are stylish and bullet proof at point blank range.  What can be better than looking good and wearing bullet proof shades. See www.esseyepro.com

With all the new bows on the market two in particular stand out as top performers. We pit the Mathews z7 against the Hoyt Maxxis 31 in a head to head shoot off. Watch the video to see the results of the fierce battle.

You see it in almost every big and small budget fiction film. It signifies our popular misconception of how guns work, and their intended purpose to repel and foil enemies and evil villains alike. It is the knockdown. Could it be that movies exaggerate the way a gun hinders an attacker? Say it isn’t so. Maybe what we see on the silver screen is more a result of dramatic effect rather than actual fact. What is knockdown power, and why will it never match up to the likes of Rambo and the Terminator? Watch the video and see Wayne Clayton explain how it works in real life.

Many know Mathews for creating extremely smooth, fast and reliable bows, but how does the z7 really hold up with the experts? Wayne Clayton from High Desert Sports discusses the build and benefits of Mathews’ archery hotrod.

If you are ever lucky enough to get the opportunity to shoot an AK 47 or a M4 fully auto rifle with a qualified instructor I highly recommend it.  It is something I won’t forget as we shot at a local firing range. The most important thing is safety. These guns are powerful  and will destroy anything they hit.  The smell of gun powder and the shear power of the weapons makes you respect what our military and law enforcement officers deal with on a regular basis.

Safety tips when shooting firearms.

• Always wear protective eyewear
• Hearing protection is a must

1. Treat every weapon as if it were loaded.
2. Never point a weapon at anything you don’t intend to destroy.
3. Be aware of your target and what is behind it.
4. Never put your finger on the trigger until you have acquired the target and ready to shoot.

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The other night I went to the movie AVATAR with an open mind. However, I did not expect to be moved by the movie and its meaningful message and analogies that we sportsmen and woman can relate to with respect for wildlife and conservation. Aside from the obvious correlation to the movie Dances with Wolves or Titanic. For me, I walked away from AVATAR in awe after over two hours of the most visually stunning movie I have seen in some time if not ever. 3D in an IMAX theatre was a treat. Definitely an action packed event worth watching on the big screen. The dialogue and story might not live up to the visual effects for some and for others it won’t matter.

Avatar takes place on the alien world of Pandora where the Resources Development Administration (RDA) a quasi non-governmental corporation has been drilling and mining for unobtainium, a highly sought-after mineral found only on the planet. To Parker Selfridge (Giovanni Ribisi), the head of operations on the planet, the natives, called the Nav’vi, are interfering more and more with the highly lucrative mining efforts. Because of the hostilities, gung ho marines have been brought in to help quell the violence. Except they are not merely there to keep the peace, the armed forces stationed on Pandora are there to uproot the natives so that a large mineral deposit, located under the home of the Nav’vi, can be extracted. James Cameron’s message here is one you can conclude on your own.

Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a paraplegic Marine wounded in a battle on Earth, arrives on Pandora to replace his scientist brother who had been killed before he finished his avatar project on the planet. Avatars are basically test-tube Nav’vi fused with human DNA used for gathering specimens from the planet. The program is run by Dr. Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver). The avatars are mindless and are controlled via telekinesis from human operators at the RDA base camp. Jake was hired to control his brother’s avatar since they have similar DNA. However, thanks to Jake’s background as a one tough Marine, he is quickly recruited by the head of security, Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang) to relay information to him and his squad so they can exploit the tribe’s weaknesses if a war is engaged. Jake is on board.

Yet when Jake’s avatar is separated from the group during a routine science expedition, he is saved from a quick death by Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), the daughter of the tribes’ rulers. After some initial skepticism, Jake is invited to learn the ways of the tribe. His increasing closeness and eventual love for Neytiri makes Jake go native just like Dances with Wolves and second guess, not only his personal intentions, but that of the corporation.

The Na’vi survive on this planet by knowing it well as did our own Native American Indians, living in harmony with nature, and being wise about the creatures they share with. Like them, they tame another species to carry them around–not horses, but flying dragon-like creatures.

The obvious left approach with liberal environmental issues, anti –militarism and corporate abuses will give the conservatives no problem in tearing this movie up but for us outdoor enthusiast and avid sportsman there is true meaning in many of James Camroon messages.

The opening scene when Jake is saved by Nevitri from the alien looking wolf pack was very powerful and the unnecessary loss of life message hit a chord with me. Don’t get me wrong, if I was confronted by a predator or a human intent on doing me harm I would have no problem pulling out my S&W 357 to save me or my family. The point in the movie was with Jake stepping into something without knowing the consequences of his actions that is where the problem lies. It is like going to a zoo, hoping the fence and ending up in the bear enclosure and someone has to shoot the bear to save your life.

The environmental issues come down to our efforts for all sportsman as it relates to conservation. The beauty of the movie was in the amazing special effects and one only needs to go to Yellowstone National park, Yosemite or the Grand Canyon to see the same beauty with our own eyes and the creatures that inhabit those areas. Our Pandora. The loss of habitat happens daily right here in our backyards and all over America and by donating to such groups as the RMEF or Ducks Unlimited or the Nature Conservancy we can truly make a difference. Sportsman are the first line of defense and by buying hunting and fishing license we play a huge part in protecting our wildlife and environment as well as protecting our national heritage and the right to bear arms. As an avid archer I took great pleasure in watching the skill of the Nav’yi as they were able to move through their forest, the respect for life after taking the life of an animal, the bond they had with there dragons and mutant horses and especially with the skill of the bow and arrow and the accuracy and lethality of this primal weapon. The predator and prey relationship has been around since the beginning of time and as we look into the future we can see it will always be apart of us. I can’t wait to go back and watch the movie again.

Bulls & Beaver LLC 2009 Copyright
Chris Burget

The second the bear charged, I raised my bow to full draw. I saw, in an instant, the long silver tipped guard hairs and broad forehead and knew that this was a grizzly. At fifteen feet, the bruin slid to a stop and pounded the ground with a huge forepaw, sending a spray of forest debris across my legs and torso as it let out a deep rumbling growl. As suddenly as it began, it was over. He retreated back into the forest, while I let down my shaking arrow from the bow. My heart still racing and feeling a little dizzy, I sat upon the cool earth and collected my frazzled nerves. “This is getting old”, I thought to myself, “really getting old!”

Dark timber to most folks seems a place foreboding and full of dangers. For me, these places are the perfect haunt, big elk get big by staying in this rough country and the hunter who braves the wildest country, has the best chance of harvesting one of those old warriors. The only real danger in these places is the possibility of an encounter with the king of the forest, the wild grizzly bear. In recent years, their numbers have increased dramatically. Where I once saw the occasional track, now an encounter with a bear is imminent. Last time I hunted on the North Fork of the Shoshone River, I encountered eleven bears in a six-day period. Two of those encounters were close calls with one bluff charge, bears protecting their food source (white pine nuts). During the September bow season the bears are dangerous, they forage the high slopes in search of red squirrel caches. The squirrels bury thousands of white pine cones in preparation for the long winter, and the bears dig up the huge mounds and feed on the bounty the squirrels have provided. You would have to see the actual digging to believe it, the woods look like a bulldozer went through from all the digging, and the bears spend the day lying around in the forest, sleeping near these caches. For the unsuspecting bow hunter, stalking with the wind in his face and moving very slowly, these bears are a real danger. They are storing fat reserves for winter and are very protective of their food. A two hundred pound man with a knife and bow is no match for a large carnivore weighing as much as 1000 pounds. Most bears run for cover when encountering a human, but at this time of year they more often growl and charge toward the threat. Let me tell you, even knowing most charges are bluff or false charges, the sight will still wilt even the most seasoned of outdoorsmen into a mass of shaking fear. Their growl is so sudden and fierce that your initial reaction is to flee. Never run! If you do this will trigger a predatory response, the bear will give chase and the result will be sudden and decisive.

I am not knocking the grizzly, quite the contrary; I like the fact that the wild ecosystem is intact and relish the chance to meet up with these old warriors. I am not Treadwell. The fact is that there are too many bears with little or no fear of humans sharing the wild backcountry with me. I cannot take my family into the wilderness without fear of the inevitable bear encounter. Furthermore, if I was forced to kill a bear to protect others, or myself the bear has already been given immediate protection from any wrongdoing. In any court of law, I would have to explain to a group of individuals that have never even seen a bear in the wild, why I killed a protected species. If they thought I had wrongfully killed this bear, my status as an honorable and ethical hunter would be slandered, and my right to hunt and fish could be taken away for my lifetime. This kind of ridiculous behavior by the Game and Fish is not at all the bears fault, nor the hunter who values the high lonesome places. The fault lies in the political agendas keeping the bear protected, as well as the sportsmen not speaking out so that those who are enacting these laws can hear our voice. Unless the mighty grizzly’s population is controlled in our wilderness areas, we stand a very real chance of loosing our rights, even the right to use the wilderness ourselves. I have seen the closure of trailheads to honest hard working tax paying citizens, and cringe at the possibility of what the future may hold for the majestic Grizzly and for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts. I would never shoot a grizzly unless it was a last resort and do not believe that bear spray is a deterrent on a bear who has a family member down or is protecting it’s cubs. I have used pepper spray on a female bear with cubs, she could have killed me. Luckily, I was in a tree when she began her assault. The spray did not deter that bear in any way shape of form. She thought I was a threat and she was determined to have at me no matter the cost to her delicate senses. I would not try to deter anyone from enjoying the wilderness. Most of the year, in most places, there is no real danger if you keep a clean, bear proof camp and be vigilant. For any hunter who hopes to hunt the Absaroka wilderness or Bridger Teton wilderness in September here in Wyoming, I would suggest you think twice before venturing out there with your family or loved ones. The danger is real!

Although I think all bears are beautiful and believe they have every right to live free and prosper, if one tries to eat me there will be a battle, and may the best warrior win. The fact is that the largest carnivore in North America left unmanaged will continue to have conflict with humans, and in the end, the bear always looses. If you value the grizzly and your right to use the wilderness areas please remember to vote for a management plan concerning the mighty king of the forest, their future, and ours depends on it.

(B&B)- Mike “Hawk” Huston is contributing editor for Bulls & Beavers LLC
www.journeywithredhawk.blogspot.com/

The call of the grey wolf reverberating off the canyon walls deep in the high country, adds a sense of wildness and majesty to one’s surroundings. For me, the mournful calls are reminiscent of an ancient time when long ago hunters walked the land, armed with primitive weaponry and survival skills which far surpassed our own. I still stalk the wild places armed with a stick bow and handmade arrows, but the call of the wolf holds a much different meaning for me than for the long ago hunter gatherers. In our modern world, the so-called wild Wyoming wolf is handled by humans in it’s lifetime, through study and scientific evaluation, more than my pet dog. My family and I made a pilgrimage into Yellowstone National Park this spring, in the hope of spotting a wolf pack in the early spring snow, and maybe getting some photographs. We were truly lucky to spot the pack feeding on a recent kill, an elk they took down the night before. We watched as these super predators surrounded a second elk and watched in anticipation as they moved in for the kill. For some reason they suddenly quit the attack and moved off in pursuit of some other prey. The reason I brought this up is I felt compelled to let people know what was happening on the sidelines concerning the so-called wild wolves of Yellowstone.

Several vehicles lined the roadway, various spotting scopes and long-range cameras follow every move of the pack across the frozen terrain. Among the watchers, conversation drifts between the raw beauty of wolf number eight and how well wolf number three is doing after last weeks encounter. Wolf number seven seems healthy despite the wound received on the tenth of September last fall, somehow wolf number eleven has hurt her foot and number one the alpha male of the druid pack looks sad… you get my point. These wolves are followed everywhere by animal rights activists who with a seemingly unlimited amount of resources at their disposal keep a constant vigil over the packs and document the lives of these WILD wolves religiously. Let us take this story to the other side of the mountains along the Absaroka front, a rancher and his daughter ride through the sagebrush-covered hills below a timbered slope. For over a hundred years, this honest and hard working family has raised cattle and pastured the cows and calves in these meadows. On the wind the stench of death permeates the summer morning, their horses are restless as they approach the now rotting carcass. “This is getting old.” the rancher replies to his daughter as they dismount and examine the kill, blowflies and summer heat have decomposed the calf’s carcass quickly. Wolf tracks are everywhere and the half-eaten carcass leaves no question to the trained eye as to the demise of the calf. Dozens of cattle have fallen prey to the wolves this summer, last winter near here his son lost a good cattle dog when the pack came down while he was cutting firewood and boldly killed the dog and went on their way. Countless man-hours have been spent riding, driving and walking the summer pastures in search of wolf kills, hoping to find them in time to allow the proper authorities to decide if wolves killed the cattle or if something else contributed to their demise. On the other end of the spectrum, if a wolf comes up missing the choppers are in the air immediately, the wildlife warriors are summoned and an unlimited amount of resources becomes available to determine the reason for the disappearance. The battle lines have been drawn and are perfectly clear, the wolf lovers want the wolf to be protected and unharmed, the ranchers want to be able to raise their herds unmolested, and the outdoorsmen and hunters want to ensure a future for their sport through proper game management. The wolf is such a good predator that their impact upon the elk herds has far surpassed the projected numbers, and their own numbers have increases at such a rate that without some sort of intervention the long term impact in Wyoming’s elk herds will be disastrous.

(B&B)- Mike “Hawk” Huston is contributing editor for Bulls & Beavers LLC
www.journeywithredhawk.blogspot.com/

Snow flies from under the pony’s unshod hooves. With each stride the warrior can feel the raw power of his favorite warhorse beneath him. Far behind the mustang and his rider, dozens of U.S. Cavalry are strung out in a ragged line. For hours the larger horses have pursued the pair over broken country. Hour after hour the smaller mustang has gained ground against the longer legged animals. At a glance, his shorter legs and powerful build do not announce speed, however ,decades of living in this country have hardened and refined the wild mustang to a razors edge concerning survival and stamina. Near the top of the Wind River pass Lame Eagle slows his horse to a slow walk, and finally to a stop. They are now several miles above the plateau and the desperately pursuing cavalry. Dismounting, he caresses his trusty steed and offers up a war song to the animal for his bravery and strength. The horse, sensing his master’s affection, nuzzles Lame Eagle and standing in this high place looks down upon the inferior horses who have tried once again in vain to catch him in his own country. After a short rest, the rider remounts, they disappear over the ridge and begin an easy trot toward the high country and home, confident that they will have no problem losing the soldiers in the timbered slopes ahead.

Captain Smith slows his tired gelding to a stop. Every man and horse in his regiment is either tired or nearly broken. For the life of him, he cannot figure how the savages and their wild horses can consistently outrun and outmaneuver his highly trained and conditioned men and military stock. For ten years, he has chased, tracked, and pursued the savages, and never once has he caught a lone warrior… even on open ground. Maybe instead of shooting the Indian ponies at every opportunity the army should consider commissioning the wild stock and using them for troop movement. Never! He and his regiment would be the laughing stock of the western army. Civilized men riding wild beasts. He shakes his head, looking through his looking glass, he watches the savage disappear over a far ridge. He decides that “this” chase has come to an end. Indian ponies must truly be the devils spawn, he thinks to himself. No mortal steed could possibly keep up such a pace.

    Today, the wild mustang is still wild and free upon the western plains and mountains; but who can say for how much longer. Their habitat is under attack by those wishing to use the land to graze cattle, sheep, as well as those hoping to open the wild horse habitat for oil exploration. Often times the majestic wild mustang is viewed as vermin by those wishing to profit from their home range. I do not begrudge the rancher for needing graze for their cattle, nor the oilfields for drilling American oil. The media would like everyone to believe that the horses are in need of a drastic decrease because of overpopulation. The truth is, their home range is being taken away so quickly and loss of food sources on crucial winter range to overgrazing is causing the wild mustang to have to fight for survival within their own designated habitat. Millions of acres are open to cattle grazing across the American west on federal, state and BLM lands, and now most of the wild Mustang habitat is being shared with grazing operations. This practice of “Give the wild horse whatever is left” is ridiculous. Just because the wild mustang cannot pay for grazing rights, they are facing destruction and have been slaughtered by the thousands to ensure their numbers stay down. We must not let the wild mustang fall prey to greed, we will lose them forever. The rancher is not to blame, he is just trying to make a living. The oil companies are not to blame, they are just creating jobs in a jobless market. The blame needs to be placed on the greed and irresponsible choices made by our Federal government. The BLM and state agencies who decide what gets left for the wild horses need to be vigilant of their position as stewards of the land and protectors of the wild mustang. Quit selling grazing rights on wild horse range!  This is just my opinion, I don’t believe any wild creature should be cast aside for the betterment of any type of industry. Save the wild mustang before it is too late.. Their habitat is being taken away, and nothing is being done to stop it, except killing the wild horses,(vermin) because they are too many. I hope we can find a way to live with the wild horses instead of trying to move them aside and pretending that the problem will just go away.. Voice your opinion, contact your local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office and ask for info on adopting one of the many horses who are already in captivity.

(B&B)- Mike “Hawk” Huston is contributing editor for Bulls & Beavers LLC
www.journeywithredhawk.blogspot.com/

When I hear people criticize hunting and fishing, while at the same time watch them order a steak at a local restaurant or order fancy labeled meats at the local grocery store, my thoughts are confirmed.

Hunting and fishing means so much to so many people that it is hard to define. It is even harder to explain to people who have never hunted and fished or never really understand its importance. Hunting and fishing is both a lifestyle and a tradition. It’s more than the morning mist, the thrill of a pursuit, the use of one’s forest knowledge. It’s primal and modern. It is raw cunning passed down from wood-wise veterans steeped in skill and interpretation of smallest details.

Hunting and fishing is more than anything, an opportunity to bond, to teach and to share. In an age of disconnected families and divorce, who could argue then with the value of a father teaching his son or daughter the respectful ways to hunt and fish with integrity and purpose, as well as proper use and care of a firearm, fly rod and cleaning one’s own catch.

Idaho’s 259,000 hunters and anglers are among the most prominent and influential of all demographic groups, spending more than $598 million a year on hunting and fishing, according to a recent report. In Idaho, spending by hunters and anglers directly supports 11,500 jobs, which puts $324 million worth of paychecks into the pockets of working residents around the state. Spending by local sportsman in pursuit of these outdoor activities generates $70 million in state and local taxes. These latest figures show that season after season hunters and anglers are the driving force in the economy from big business to rural towns through both booms and recessions.

When spending by hunters and anglers is compared to that by other sectors, their impact on the state’s economy becomes more tangible. Sportsman support more jobs in Idaho than Micron Technology, one of the state’s largest employers: 11,500 jobs versus 10,000. Idaho sportsman outnumber the populations of Boise and Pocatello: 259,000 versus 246,533.

On a national level 34 million sportsmen age 16 and older spent more than 76 billion in 2006, supporting 1.6 million jobs. If a single corporation grossed as much as hunters and anglers spend. It would be among America’s 20 largest, ahead of Target, Costco and AT&T. The economic stimulus of hunting and fishing equals and astounding 1.6 million a day being pumped into the state’s economy.

Spending by sportsman benefits not only manufactures of hunting and fishing related products, but everything from local mom and pop businesses to wildlife conservation. Because most hunting and fishing takes place in rural areas, much of the spending benefits less affluent parts of the state. When sportsman spending is thought in business terms and compared to other sectors of the economy, it is quite remarkable. From small rural towns scattered across our country’s landscape to the bottom line of fortune 500 companies located in major cities, taking away hunting and fishing removes the equivalent of a multi-billion dollar corporation.

As I sit here and think about my personal life as a hunter, angler and entrepreneur, my thoughts revolve around both the passionate side of hunting, fishing and the business side. Socially, culturally, and economically, hunting and fishing is part of who we are and contains all the good ingredients of what we need to be in the future.

B&B copyright 2009

“People using social networks will grow from 14 million in 2007 to 600 million
in 2012.” 

In the field hunters and anglers do our best not to be seen. We wear camouflage to conceal ourselves. But in the real world of  fast paced business and cutting edge change, outdoorsmen and women cannot hide in the shadows…Let’s face it, we all need to rethink the importance of social media and the benefits of this powerful tool. This is particularly important for us outdoor sportsmen and women as we try to connect with others who share our similar interests. 

Whether it’s hunting, fishing, camping, bird watching or just those who enjoy the great outdoors we all need to work together to help each other in this competitive market place. Hunters are a dying breed (no pun intended) as our numbers continue to shrink. But now, there are effective ways to pass on our valued traditions through our blogs and websites.

So what is social media?

• Social media marketing is the process of promoting your site or business through social media channels like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. 
• It is a powerful strategy that will get you links, attention and massive amounts of traffic.
• The key is having a target audience and communicating with a message that connects with your audience through quality content. 

 Why should the outdoors-man or woman use social media? 

• The outdoor market is large and fragmented.
• This fragmented market offers opportunities for us niche bloggers to communicate and offer value to our readers.
• There is no other low-cost promotional method out there that will easily give you large numbers of visitors, some of whom may come back to your website again and again. 
• Twitter and Facebook seem to be the most popular sites that allow you to gain followers and influence your target audience.
• If you are selling products/services or just publishing content for ad revenue, social media marketing is a potent method that will make your site profitable over time. 
• When it comes to the outdoor sportsmen we our a large an influential group that has not tapped into the power of social media.

Interesting Outdoor Industry Statistics:

• On a national level 34 million sportsmen age 16 and older spent more than 76 billion in 2006,    supporting 1.6 million jobs.
• If a single corporation grossed as much as hunters and anglers spend. It would be among    America’s 20 largest, ahead of Target, Costco and AT&T.
• Outdoors enthusiasts contributed more than $56 Billion to the U.S. economy through hunting & fishing supplies alone.
• More than the combined revenues of Microsoft, Ebay and Yahoo.
•  If they were a nation they would rank 57 out of 181 countries.
• Spending by sportsman benefits not only manufactures of hunting and fishing related products, but everything from local mom and pop businesses to wildlife conservation.

Those who ignore the value of social media usually fall into three categories:

1. Those who don’t know much or anything about social media,
2. Those who are interested but don’t know how to use it
3. Those who don’t believe in the value that a social media strategy can bring to any site or business. 
   • This is particularly true for the outdoor sportsmen.
   • Currently on Twitter there are 429 registered users under hunting and 1,259 under fishing. 
   • On Facebook there are 7,400 registered names under hunting with Hunting having 88,000 fans and fishing having registered over 2,000 and Fishing have over 153,000 fans.
   • Although these numbers are encouraging there is still room to grow and take advantage of the social media outlets that we have available.

90% of businesses in 2009 failed to gain significant value from social media (Community Marketing Blog). Despite November’s 2009 statistics of YouTube’s 6.75 billion streams (Nielsen Wire) and Facebook’s 2.6 billion visits (Compete.com) many businesses are floundering with inexperienced practitioners and poor guidance for effective social media marketing.

Content =Connection = Commerce

I hope you enjoyed this post and please comment or share your story how social media has helped you and your brand.

Thanks and be sure to get outdoors in 2010 and pursue your passion -

Chris Burget, Bulls & Beavers

 Most people see Rednecks as people who hunt and kill any animals, drive big trucks and carry big guns in the back of their trucks while drinking a beer.  Rednecks do exist and for the most part are hard working flag honoring outdoor folks that respect wildlife and would turn a poacher in if given the opportunity.  Most people will tell they are proud to be a Redneck and wouldn’t have it any other way.

 More and more hunters today both men and woman are involved with wildlife conservation as well land conservation and look nothing like the sterotypical name of the term Redneck.  These hunters support many great causes that benefit our lands and wildlife and donate more dollars than any other group.  License fees are the largest portion of the sportsman’s contributions that contribute to the state fish and game departments presently furnishing them with more than 1.1 Billion dollars a year.

Hunting means so much to so many people that it is hard to define. It is even harder to explain to people who have never hunted or never really understand its importance. Hunting is both a lifestyle and a tradition. It’s more than the morning mist, the thrill of a pursuit, the use of one’s forest knowledge. It’s primal and modern. It is raw cunning passed down from wood-wise veterans steeped in skill and interpretation of smallest details.

Hunting is more than anything, an opportunity to bond, to teach and to share. In an age of disconnected families and divorce, who could argue then with the value of a father teaching his son or daughter the respectful ways to hunt with integrity and purpose, as well as proper use and care of a firearm and cleaning one’s own catch.

On a national level 34 million sportsmen age 16 and older spent more than 76 billion in 2006, supporting 1.6 million jobs. If a single corporation grossed as much as hunters and anglers spend. It would be among America’s 20 largest, ahead of Target, Costco and AT&T. The economic stimulus of hunting and fishing equals and astounding 1.6 million a day being pumped into the state’s economy

Spending by sportsman benefits not only manufactures of hunting and fishing related products, but everything from local mom and pop businesses to wildlife conservation. Because most hunting and fishing takes place in rural areas, much of the spending benefits less affluent parts of the state. When sportsman spending is thought in business terms and compared to other sectors of the economy, it is quite remarkable. From small rural towns scattered across our country’s landscape to the bottom line of fortune 500 companies located in major cities, taking away hunting and fishing removes the equivalent of a multi-billion dollar corporation.

Rocky Mountains 1854…Elk move through the dense fog at timberline, the hunter sees them briefly as they ghost toward his concealed position. Near the back of the herd, a cow staggers along slowly and painfully. The broken shaft of an arrow sticking out from her shoulder tells the hunter he has finally found her. Nearly four days ago he shot this cow elk near the great river. The shot went high and failed to penetrate the body cavity, resulting in a painful wound. For days, he has trailed the herd and tried in vain to get close enough to make a killing shot. The creator blessed the hunter with thick fog this morning allowing for a careful stalk which has put him in position along the herds travel route. Several elk pass by before the wounded cow finally presents a good quartering shot; the hunter draws his strong bow and releases the feathered shaft in one fluid movement. Like lightning across the summer sky, the arrow strikes swiftly. The already weakened cow falls to the earth almost immediately and lies still as the fog begins to recede. What should have been an easy task of harvesting meat for his people became a four-day test of his skills as a hunter, his dedication to his prey and his unwavering decision to always stay the course no matter where the trail may lead. Arms raised toward the sky he prays to the creator and gives thanks for his good fortune. He also asks the one above to see the elk’s spirit safely to the place where elk go, and lays down some tobacco and sage to honor the life he has taken which will in return sustain life for him and his family… The sun suddenly peaks through the rapidly dying fog, illuminating the crystalline world of white in bright splendor. He smiles with the realization that his prayers have been heard, as an eagle cries from somewhere in the bright morning sky…

Today in our modern world of gadgetry, and better, stronger, more diverse gear and equipment. It becomes hard to imagine that hunter’s still hunt the wild places with this kind of honor, integrity and perseverance as the hunter in my story. However, the truth of the matter is without hunters in our modern world there would in all likelihood be little or no game left for anyone to enjoy. Modern encroachment on what was once wildlife habitat and the constant threat to the remaining habitats, dictates that we as stewards of the wild places must keep the numbers in check. There is simply not enough land left out there for most wildlife to prosper in huge numbers as they once did. Left unmanaged most species soon overpopulate their home range and begin outward expansion. Once this happens, human conflict becomes eminent, and usually the wildlife suffers greatly from disease and starvation. However, through constant and well-regulated management, hunters will, and have, allowed species to remain in strong numbers without being subjected to overpopulation and disease inside of their designated ranges. Conservation is nothing new to the hunter. Since the early days of conservation with men like Theodore Roosevelt and John Muir; hunters have been at the forefront of nearly every wildlife conservation effort. From the national parks to wildlife refuges and wetlands, hunters have put their money where their mouth is. Their blood, sweat and hard work have enhanced thousands of acres, bettering the habitats for future generations of hunters and their prey. Too often hunters are portrayed as vicious killers with no care for wildlife or their future. This kind of ignorance is why we as hunters must take a stand; we must let the world know that we are the first line of defense for the wild places and all the creatures who share these places with us. Groups like Pheasants Forever, Trout Unlimited, The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and The Foundation for North American Wild Sheep, just to name a few, make it possible for future generations to enjoy the wild creatures and their habitat is ensured by our sportsmen’s dollars. Without sportsmen and women supporting wildlife conservation most all species would be in peril. I call upon my fellow outdoorsmen to ensure a future for our sport and for the heritage passed down through the ages. We are under attack at every front by those who preach salvation for our wild places and the creatures with which we share this great planet. Somehow, the true saviors and stewards of the forest have become targeted as the evil doers because we harvest animals instead of allowing the natural selection of disease starvation and overpopulation to decimate the herds. Brothers and sisters, we must be vigilant of our position as predators, and stay the course as wilderness warriors in order to achieve our ultimate goal. Protection of our wildlife, their habitats and our heritage. Most importantly, we must not allow the so-called defenders of wildlife and environmental activists the opportunity to destroy all we have worked to build. If they cannot work in tandem with we sportsmen in our efforts, then we must work that much harder to ensure that the circle of life remains, instead of drawing lines in the sand. ~Hawk

(B&B)- Mike “Hawk” Huston is contributing editor for Bulls & Beavers LLC
www.journeywithredhawk.blogspot.com/

http://highcountryarcher.blogspot.com/
(A Collection of Mike’s stories)

Dave is an investor in Bulls & Beavers and also owns KHS&S contractors. KHS&S is one of the nation’s largest specialty contractors and is the nation’s leading theme contractor. Both Dave and his brother Mike are friends of mine from high school and it was great to spend quality time with them sharing old stories and hunting together.

Leaving Ketchum, Idaho on the 9th, I decided to take a shortcut through Stanley past the majestic Sawtooth Mountain range and over to Lowman, then North through McCall and into Grangeville. The drive was beautiful and fall was definitely in the air.

We all met at the Grangeville airport and headed out from there in three large SUVs. The drive to camp was an experience as we traveled up a steep dirt road through some very rugged country. We arrived at camp around 4:30 in the afternoon and met the staff. Tim Craig, the owner of Boulder Creek Outfitters, has been in business for over 25 years and has put together a first class operation with a staff that is both dedicated and experienced. His operation leases 55,000 prime acres that is home to large herds of Elk, Mule deer, White Tail deer, Black Bear and Mountain Lions.

Having two weeks earlier taken a nice bull elk with my bow, I was content to simply ride along and share in the camaraderie of being with the others elk hunting. I had several opportunities for a White Tail deer, but passed on two small crab claws.

The first day of the hunt was cold and the weather got colder as the week went on. Every morning we woke at 3:45am and were out by 5:00am. The food was great. Breakfast was always my favorite with eggs, bacon biscuits and gravy, French toast etc. We packed a lunch each day and often would not return to camp until after dark.

As for accommodations, they were far better than I expected. I would classify them as far superior to your typical back country camp. Hot shower, Satellite TV and heated sleeping areas with comfortable beds made for an incredible hunt post hunt retreat that I would recommend to anyone.

Opening day we had two animals down. By the end of my trip we had eight elk, seven deer, and one bear in camp with three days of hunting still to complete.

Now it’s fair to say that hunting is sometimes a misunderstood activity. It’s also reasonable to comment that many people don’t realize what hunting means to not only this outfitter, but to the State of Idaho and the many small rural towns across the state and country.

When I hear people criticize hunting, while at the same time watch them order a steak at a local restaurant or order fancy labeled meats at the local grocery store, my thoughts are confirmed.

Hunting means so much to so many people that it is hard to define. It is even harder to explain to people who have never hunted or never really understand its importance. Hunting is both a lifestyle and a tradition. It’s more than the morning mist, the thrill of a pursuit, the use of one’s forest knowledge. It’s primal and modern. It is raw cunning passed down from wood-wise veterans steeped in skill and interpretation of smallest details.

Hunting is more than anything, an opportunity to bond, to teach and to share. In an age of disconnected families and divorce, who could argue then with the value of a father teaching his son or daughter the respectful ways to hunt with integrity and purpose, as well as proper use and care of a firearm and cleaning one’s own catch.

Idaho’s 259,000 hunters and anglers are among the most prominent and influential of all demographic groups, spending more than $598 million a year on hunting and fishing, according to a recent report. In Idaho, spending by hunters and anglers directly supports 11,500 jobs, which puts $324 million worth of paychecks into the pockets of working residents around the state. Spending by local sportsman in pursuit of these outdoor activities generates $70 million in state and local taxes. These latest figures show that season after season hunters and anglers are the driving force in the economy from big business to rural towns through both booms and recessions.

When spending by hunters and anglers is compared to that by other sectors, their impact on the state’s economy becomes more tangible. Sportsman support more jobs in Idaho than Micron Technology, one of the state’s largest employers: 11,500 jobs versus 10,000. Idaho sportsman outnumber the populations of Boise and Pocatello: 259,000 versus 246,533.

On a national level 34 million sportsmen age 16 and older spent more than 76 billion in 2006, supporting 1.6 million jobs. If a single corporation grossed as much as hunters and anglers spend. It would be among America’s 20 largest, ahead of Target, Costco and AT&T. The economic stimulus of hunting and fishing equals and astounding 1.6 million a day being pumped into the state’s economy.

Spending by sportsman benefits not only manufactures of hunting and fishing related products, but everything from local mom and pop businesses to wildlife conservation. Because most hunting and fishing takes place in rural areas, much of the spending benefits less affluent parts of the state. When sportsman spending is thought in business terms and compared to other sectors of the economy, it is quite remarkable. From small rural towns scattered across our country’s landscape to the bottom line of fortune 500 companies located in major cities, taking away hunting and fishing removes the equivalent of a multi-billion dollar corporation.

As I sit here and think about my personal life as a hunter and entrepreneur, my thoughts revolve around both the passionate side of hunting, and the business side. Socially, culturally, and economically, hunting is part of who we are and contains all the good ingredients of what we need to be in the future.

This last week spent with both new and old friends only deepens my bonds to the life and lifestyle I love. Dave’s and Mikes friendship and Tim’s expertise and hospitality made this last week so memorable.

Because of our group’s overwhelmingly positive impression of the week, I am proud to provide a Bulls & Beavers, “Best of the Best” award to Boulder Creek Outfitters. If anyone is thinking of booking a trip please be sure to visit our website and check out this outfitter. This was my 4th guided hunt over the last ten years and it far exceeded my expectations.

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The Dallas International Boat Show 2010 will take place at Market Hall in Dallas, Texas February 05th through February 14th, 2010.  The winter Dallas Boat Show features all of the new and exciting water crafts for 2010. Boating enthusiasts will be able to see the latest in fishing boats, house boats, pontoon boats, sailboats and luxury yachts all under one roof.  More than 60 exhibitors will be on hand with all of their water toys as well as wind surfing and wake boarding equipment.  The hours of the Dallas International Boat Show 2010 are 3PM-9PM on Friday’s February 5th and 12th, 10AM-10PM on Saturday’s February 6th and 13th and 10AM-6PM on Sunday’s February 7th and 14th.  The Dallas Boat Show will be closed on Monday and Tuesday February 8th and 9th.  Admission is $10 per adult, $4 for children ages 2-13, and under 2 yrs of age free of charge.  Visit the Dallas International Boat Show website www.DallasBoatShow.net for a $1 off admission discount coupon.  The Dock Party will be held on Wednesday Febrary 10th, 2010 from 6PM-10PM.  Admission to this VIP party is $50 per person and features live entertainment, food as well as wine and cocktails.  A silent auction will be held.  The Dock Party benefits the Wounded Warrior Project.  Dallas Market Hall is located at 2200 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas Texas 75207.

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Dallas International Boat Show 2010, Dallas Texas

 In today’s world of building  brands we are all looking for a target audience to market to.  When I first started @bullsandbeavers  www.bullsandbeavers.com.  I was solely focused on finding like minded people that had a passion for hunting and fishing.  As time went on I noticed a pattern of people that both followed me and retweeted and to my surprise a majority of my followers were woman and surprisingly the retweets came from people that didn’t hunt or fish. 

Now I know some of you will say only to follow or be followed by people that share your same interest. To that, I would say you are really limiting yourself as to quality people and their target of influence.  In March of 2009 I launched B&B with  1 follower and quickly grew to close to 19,000 followers in less than a year. 

 Like in the real world some would say opposites attract. There are plenty of examples when it comes to relationships.   There are some couples that have big differences like a Democrat who marries a Republican or a vegetarian who ends up with a hunter.   At the end of the day you might not agree with each other but at least you can walk away with a better appreciation and or understating of your differences.  Of course, there are some out there that no matter what you say or do that there is no way you can even discuss some topics like the right to bear arms or hunting and those are the people I simply don’t even try to debate with.

  I recently read a post from @lorimcneeartist  www.lorimcnee.com that happens to be one of B&B’s “Best of the Best” artists. The post was on opposites attract in painting art  http://bit.ly/6iJxym and that inspired me to write this.  Lori has fast become the #2 most influential blogger on twitter for artist not to mention one of the premier wildlife and plein air painter in the country. Her secret is great content. Inspirational quotes, diverse audience and passion for what she does.

 Here are several tips I suggest when trying to grow your brand and audience.

1.  Don’t limit your followers.  This simple means that if someone follows you and they may not fall exactly into your niche follow them back.
2. Don’t,  not follow someone just because they have only a few followers.  Some of the best people and tweeters are the little guys. So don’t over look them.
3. Find guest bloggers.  I have used

• @USAGhostwriter who is able to write on controversial topics like wolf control, hunting etc without offending most and actually win over people through his writing style.  I have also used
• @hookandhunttv for other stories like the second amendment which has been very popular and allows people to express their opinions in a civil matter.
•  @Dayne Shuda is another one of guest bloggers who writes on the hunting industry and has a large following.  
•  @lorimcneeartist for both her content but more importantly her quotes.  Find quotes that appeal to a mass audience and you will see how often people retweet and appreciate good quotes.

When responding to someone who disagrees I say

“Seek first to understand then be understood.” Steven Covey, 7 Habits.

 For a great post on building your brand I recommend you read this article

    http://www.finearttips.com/?p=1809

 Here is a sample my of favorite quotes

1.  “True friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget.” —Amanda Kunkle
2.  “Life is short, Live where you love and love what you do.” #quoteC Burget
3.  The best things in life are not things. They are expierences with friends, family & the outdoors” CBurget #quote
4.  Well-behaved women seldom make history ~ Laurel Thatcher Ulrich #quote
5.  Dogs’ lives are too short. Their only fault, really. ~Agnes Sligh Turnbull
6.  “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.” ~ proverb
7. “I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me & 90% how I react to it.” ~Charles Swindoll #quote
8. “The Golden Rule of Tweeter. Tweet others the way you want to be tweeted” L Mcnee

Content =Communication= Commerce

I leave with this.  The goal  to build ing followers is through quality content and quality tweets.  Don’t be afraid to step outside the box and engage people that are in other fields than yours.  I hope you enjoyed this.

Thanks,

Chris burget

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If you’re looking for something to do this icy weekend, you might want to check out the Texas Fishing, Hunting, and Outdoors Show.  The show, which is a great family event, runs from Jan 7 – 10, offers free seminars on two different stages, celebrity autographs, tips from pros, door prizes, and product samples…not to mention an “interactive hunting habitat” created by the Texans Archiry Club.  The hunting and fishing areas have been separated to give outdoors sports people a chance to explore what the products that they like most.  There’s also a section dedicated just for the kids from Radio Disney called the Kids Cove.  In the kids section there’s a catfish tank, games, and plenty of activities.

The Texas Fishing, Hunting, and Outdoors show will be at the Arlington Convention Center.

Showtimes are:
Thursday: 2-8 PM
Friday: 10-8 PM
Saturday: 10-8 PM
Sunday: 10-5 PM

Ticket prices run $10 for adults, children 6 – 12 $3, and 5 and under are free. Visit the official website for a $1 off coupon on the price of admission.

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Texas Fishing, Hunting, and Outdoors Show January 2010

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San Angelo State Park, adjacent to the city of San Angelo, Texas, is a large park of 7,677 acres sitting on the shores of the O.C. Fisher Reservoir.  This parcel of West Texas range land became a state park in 1995.  San Angelo State Park offers several unique activities and experiences for the visitor.  Most of the land that makes up the park will remain undeveloped, in part protecting archeological findings dating back some 18,000 years which includes Indian rock art and ancient animal tracks.  Check with the park for a tour schedule to visit the Permian animal tracks and Indian petroglyphs.  Part of the Official State Longhorn Herd makes it’s home here.  Also in residence is a bison herd.  Inquire for tour times to view the Bison and Longhorn herds.  50 species of mammals are known at the park including prairie dog towns, and you may visit a bird watching station to spot any of the 350 species of birds that frequent the park.  There are 50 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking trails and equestrian trails, 20 miles for backpackers as well as developed campsites with water and electricity.  There is boating on the lake, boat ramps available and a fishing platform and dock being developed.

San Angelo State Park may be entered from a South or North Entrance.  We drove in through the South Entrance, closest to the city of San Angelo for a day trip.  The ranger at the entrance gate was very friendly and quite informative explaining all of the features of the park.  Sadly, as we explored the camping loops on the south side of the park, we found them in need of maintenance, the bathrooms in general were in desperate need of cleaning and in a state of general disrepair.  Camping fees range from $8 for a primitive backpacking site to $18 per night for a developed site with water and electric.   Be aware that little to no shade exists at any of the campsites, not a good thing in the hot Texas summers.  I would recommend this park for day use but would hesitate to make it an overnight camping destination.  A park entrance fee of $3 per person for ages 13 and up applies or an annual Texas State Parks Pass is accepted in lieu of the entrance fee.  From the city of San Angelo, Texas access the south entrance to the park by way of U.S. Hwy 67 south to FM 2288.  San Angelo State Park may be found on the web at sasp@tpwd.state.tx.us 325-949-8935

tags

San Angelo State Park Texas, camping San Angelo State Park, Official Texas Longhorn Herd, bison herd West Texas, bird watching West Texas, prairie dog towns Texas State Parks, hiking trails Texas, primitive camping Texas, Indian petroglyphs Texas

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The winter 2010 Dallas RV and Camping Show will be held at Dallas Market Hall in the Dallas Market Center beginning on Thursday February 25th running through Sunday February 28th, 2010.  Mark your calendar and save those dates!  More information on admission prices and where to get discount coupons will be posted when available.  The Dallas Market Hall is located at 200 Stemmons Freeway in Dallas, Texas.

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Believe it or not we had more snow flying in Dallas for most of the afternoon of Tuesday, December 29th, 2009.  Just five days after our Christmas Eve storm the white stuff blanketed the area again.  The flakes were heavy and wet.  About an inch stuck to the ground before it all turned to rain.  It wasn’t a “New England type storm” as was the rare Christmas Eve storm, but it has been a winter weather week to remember here in Dallas, Texas,

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It started as just a regular black bear hunt and it became an obsession.
I was guiding bear hunters in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains and a group of hunters from Wisconsin had sent us some trail cameras. We had six well-established baits spread over our hunting area and they were already getting hit hard even though it was only late April. I was excited to get the cameras out and early the next morning I made the rounds to see if we had any pictures. I was hoping for three or four. We had eighty. Hmmm… Who woulda guessed? One of our bears looked like a monster. It wasn’t a great picture and at first glance, isn’t very impressive until the next day when we noticed that he had been about 20 yards beyond the barrel and the tracks…. oh the tracks.

Our first glimpse of Toad

As the weeks went on we got pictures of him visiting most of our baits and we confirmed it… he was huge. We called him “Toad” and he was the type of bear you dream about. Not only was he big, but he was a deep chocolate color to boot. Our Wisconsin hunters were ecstatic. Not only because of Toad, but we had a nice blonde bear spotted for them as well.

This is Blondie and he was on the hit list too

So, our hunters showed up in mid-May and for five days they passed up bear after bear in their quest for Toad and Blondie, neither of whom showed up for the party. Hunters came and left all season and our two stars never made a showing, although they did continue to pose for our cameras. On the last day of the season we didn’t have any hunters so I hunted Toad’s favorite bait and he did come in, but it was after shooting hours. I sat in the stand watching him in the moonlight for a long time… drooling. The next two seasons were more of the same and he began to become a legend. Our hunters all left with nice bears, but not THE bear.

Toad standing in front of the bait barrel

A big bear will look long and short. That’s a big bear.

In 2007 we purchased a new hunting area in the Frank Church Wilderness and I knew that my chance to get this great bear was coming to an end, so I set our with a vengeance and hunted hard. I only put out one bait, but it was in a better area with thicker cover and much harder to get to. I figured that this would give him fewer choices and I hoped that he would feel more comfortable in the thicker cover and come in during the shooting hours. I hunted hard and I passed on a bunch of nice bears. Big ones, blonde ones, chocolate ones, red ones and even one that I called “frosted chocolate”.

I’d like to say that it ended with a hero shot of me and my bow and a big bear named Toad… but it didn’t. It did end with a BANG! though.

You’re probably asking yourself, “I thought this was about Blazing Saddles“, well, here it comes: Our bear hunting truck was an old piece of crap Toyota and it was on it’s last leg. On my final trip in to hunt Toad I was 20-some miles from the lodge when I smelled something burning. I was on an old logging road with overhanging brush, so I didn’t want to stop and burn down the whole forest, so I pushed on hoping to get to a spring that crossed the “road” a few miles below. Before long, the cab was full of smoke, my head was out the window and there were flames coming out of the passenger side floorboard. I was flying, desperate to make the spring. As I skidded around the last corner I tried to slow down, but the brakes lines had burned through I guess… uh oh. The only option I had was to run into a big willow growing out of the spring. That put a stop to things real quick.

I bailed out and tried fruitlessly to put the fire out, but soon realized that it was just too big, so all I could do was salvage what I could, back off, take pictures and try to put out any forest fire that might start. The smoke was incredible, the flames were huge and the tires blowing (I think it was the tires) were surprisingly loud. It didn’t take long for that old pickup to burn to the ground.

That old Toyota burned to the ground. It was impressive.

I’m surprised the firefighters didn’t show up

Once the fire was out, I put on my backpack and started a long walk back to the lodge. I didn’t take the roads so it was only about 15 miles as the crow flies, but it still took most of the day. I flew out the next morning to start a new adventure. My quest for Toad the monster black bear was over.

Last spring a friend of mine who hunts the same area showed me a picture of a huge chocolate bear at one of his baits. The legend continues… and since I’m not outfitting anymore, I just might re-kindle my obsession.

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Fort Worth Texas is hosting the winter RV Show at the Fort Worth Convention Center from January 7, 2010 thru January 10, 2010.  Come and check out everything from a pop-up camper to a Class A Motor Home.  Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (age 55 and up), $3 for children ages 6-12 years.  Under 6 years of age are free.  There is a $3 discount  print-out coupon available in the Fort Worth  Star Telegram  newspaper valid for discounts on Saturday and Sunday only.  There is also a $1 discount coupon to use for any day.  You may print it out on the website fortworthrvshow.com.  (discount coupon cannot be applied to child admission price.)  Admission is half price on Thursday the 7th of January, 2010 and Friday the 8th of January 2010.  The Fort Worth Convention Center is located at 1201 Houston St.  Fort Worth, Texas  76102  817-570-2222

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RV Show Fort Worth Texas 2009

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Wyoming man pleads guilty to shooting bald eagle

It’s called Big D New Year’s Eve 2010.  One of the most spectacular New Year’s Eve parties in the country will be held at Victory Park, Dallas Texas beginning at 6PM on Thursday December 31st, 2009.  At 7PM The Dallas Stars will be inside the American Airlines Center playing the Anaheim Ducks, while outside on the Chevy Music Stage the bands will start to kick the party in to action.

New Year's Eve Celebration

Join in the countdown to The New Year as you watch the Old Year tick away on the mega screens and get ready for the fireworks show at midnight  WFAA will broadcast live from Victory Park beginning at 11PM until 1230AM.  You will need a wristband to go to the party.  They are free and available in advance at various Dallas/Fort Worth Tom Thumb locations and at the American Airlines Center Box Office.  A limited number of wrist bands will be available on a first come first serve basis at the gate on the night of the event.  Arrive early for one of these.  Food and drink, including alcohol, will be available for sale at the party.  You may not bring your own.  Dart will run light rail service until 1AM for all you party goers.  This is the recommended mode of transportation as parking in the area will be limited.

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Big D New Year’s Eve 2010, Dallas Texas

Let me start by saying that we have not stayed at this RV Park.  I am writing about it because they have a different, unique concept for RV’ers looking for a longer stay and I thought this might be of interest to some of you.  First, the basics.  The Camel Stop RV Park offers 40 large, wide pull-thrus with free wi-fi but no cable TV.  The  rate is $20 or $22 per night,  varying for 30 or 50 amp service.  The weekly rate is $100-$110 and the monthly rate $325-$350 including all utilities.  Now for the unique.  You may lease one of 3 RV Ports or one of 8 RV Villas by the month.  The RV Ports consist of a covered garage area for your RV, a covered area for your tow vehicle, a 12X20 ft storage room and a 12X12 covered patio.  The monthly rate is $500 with all bills paid.  The villas consist of an RV Port, a garage, a storage room and a 900 square foot apartment which includes appliances.  The monthly rate for the villa is $800.  We drove by this park  in November of 2009 on our way home to the Dallas/Fort Worth area from a stay in Junction  The park looks clean, lots of grassy areas and trees that will eventually provide needed shade in the hot Texas summers.  The Camel Stop RV Park is located on 20 acres just off US 377 between Stephenville and Dublin, Texas.  (Dublin is home to the original Dr. Pepper)  It is approximately 75 miles from Fort Worth, Texas and 100 miles from Dallas, Texas.  Camel Stop RV Park, 16824 South US 377, Dublin Texas 76446.  254-445-3889.  camelstoprvpark.com

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Camel Stop RV Park, Dublin Texas

It is the day after Christmas, December 26th, 2009 and all of the snow from our Christmas Eve 2009 winter storm is gone.  Yesterday afternoon the temperatures did go into the 50’s, barely, but with the sun that took care of the remaining evidence that we did indeed have a White Christmas here in North Texas for the first time since 1924.  As my friend Steven at My Life Outdoors commented, we don’t get snow in Texas very often so when we do it’s a big deal.

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The Day after Christmas, December 26th 2009

The snow stuck overnight and it is indeed a White Chistmas in Dallas, Texas on December 25th, 2009.  Official records show that we have not had a White Christmas in Dallas since December 25th, 1926, 83 years ago.  So for most of us this is probably a once in a lifetime event!  We have about 2 inches on the ground, however to the north and west they had half a foot or more with blizzard like conditions last night creating snow drifts of up to 5 feet.  Our two Great Pyrenees dogs have been playing in the back yard all  morning and you can tell they think this is about the best thing that ever happened in their world.  Merry Christmas everyone!

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White Christmas Day 2009, Dallas Texas

It is snowing in Dallas, Texas on Christmas Eve, 2009.  The chances of having a White Christmas in the Dallas, Texas area on any given year is less than 5 % so that makes this year special for sure.  In our suburb of Irving, Texas the precipitation started as rain around 11AM, changed to a light snow mist and then turned to snow at approximately 12 noon.  We are under a winter storm warning until 6PM and expect accumulation of 1-2 inches.  It is cold with an expected high today of only 44 degrees and a low of 30 degrees.  A wind advisory has been posted through 9PM this evening adding to our winter Christmas snowstorm in North Texas.  The skies will clear later this evening with overnight temperatures dipping into the 20’s.  As of early afternoon on Christmas Eve, December 24th, 2009 there is not enough snow on the ground in our neighborhood to build a snowman but maybe later.  Bundle up, build a fire in the fireplace, sip a hot drink and enjoy this year’s White Christmas in Dallas, Texas.

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A White Christmas in Dallas Texas, 2009

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Hunters take Wis. officials to task over poor hunt

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Hunters lose privileges for 10 years

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Experts criticize Wis. DNR on CWD

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Md. firearm hunters kill nearly 45,000 deer

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Illinois hunters complete muzzleloader deer season

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NH offers ice fishing classes

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Michigan files Supreme Court suit over Asian carp

We spotted a coyote right off the road on the north side of Cedar Hill State Park at about 11AM on Sunday, December 20th, 2009.  As we slowed and then stopped our truck to observe him, he just became still at the edge of the underbrush and stared back.  He was a good size and healthy looking.  Come out for a drive around the park roads with the family and see if you can spot coyotes or maybe even a bobcat in the park.  Cedar Hill State Park is in Cedar Hill, Texas right outside of Dallas, Texas.  If you do not have a Texas State Parks Pass a small admission charge to enter the park applies.

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Coyotes in Cedar Hill State Park, Cedar Hill Texas

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A Warning To Outdoor Users About Echinococcus, From Worms

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MI DNR: Internet speculation on St. Martin deer case overblown

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Migrating whooping crane fatally shot in W. Indiana

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Hunters will reduce Wind Cave elk herd

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SD hunting, fishing licenses go on sale

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NJ township eyes leasing some land to hunters

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Youths from Saco, Glasgow convicted of poaching

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Mountain Lion Shot Near Marengo, Iowa

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More CWD cases found in S.D. wildlife

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Mo. angler reels in state-record brown trout

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Nearly 99,500 deer harvested in Illinois

All of these mule deer bucks were taken with one of our Outfitter Partners on the 2009 August archery hunt in Arizona.

33 inches wide and scores 200 P&Y as a clean 4 point typical buck

Giant 31 inch wide, 8×9 non-typical monster AZ mule deer scoring 220 P&Y

Impressive

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Citations issued in Lake Michigan island ‘deer pole’ case

Skepticism. That word describes how I felt about this product when I got it in the mail. A fishing hook that you don’t tie onto your line? You just wrap your line around it a few times? Yeah, right. You’ve gotta be kidding. Well, I have to admit it… I was wrong. These things are cool!

My family and I took these hooks and spent the summer fishing. From trout in the kids pond to sturgeon, these hooks fit the bill. Here’s my review:

Ease of Use:
Couldn’t get any easier. Now, I’ve got to say that I’m not going to introduce my kids to these hooks until they know how to tie “real” knots. There’s really no practical reason for this, but I just want my kids to know how to tie the knots. Maybe it’s that “old dog, new trick” thing.

Functionality:
Couldn’t get any more functional.

Are They Practical?
For sure. Not much else to say.

Will My Buddies Make Fun of Me?
I have a few friends who might make fun of me for not tying my own knots… but I don’t care.

TOTAL SCORE:
www.easy2hookusa.com

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Or maybe it will be the cause of my death. Many more pics here.

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Before I die

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Cougar spotted in Champlin, MN

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Suffolk nontypical one of New York’s best

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Fond du Lac resident’s 30-point buck a new record

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Elk poacher loses hunting privileges for 5 years

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Utah shortens 2010 general deer hunting season

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Fishermen netting for Asian carp in Ill. channel

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Mich. AG says he’ll sue to protect lakes from carp

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8th mountain lion killed in western ND

Holiday Gift List   

              Bulls & Beavers “Best of the Best” 2009                 

It’s that time of the year when we are all looking to find that special gift for our family, friends and loved ones. We’ve put together the best new hunting, fishing and outdoors-related gifts for the 2009-10 holiday season. 

• Gift Card to Cabela’s: My personal favorite. If you have not been to a Cabela’s lately just picture stepping into a theme park like Disneyland but for the outdoor sportsman.  They should charge for admission.  www.cabelas.com
• Subscription to a great magazine: 
  1. Outdoor Life Magazine: Can’t go wrong with this! www.outdoorlife.com
  2. Field and Stream Magazine: A must have for all seasons.
• Snowshoes: Every outdoor enthusiast needs a pair when they venture out in the snow county. It’s that time of the year to break out your snow shoes.  Here is your best bet. crescentmoonsnowshoes.com
• Art, Music, Photography: Get in touch with your wild side.  Check out our artists on Bulls and Beavers  for your wildlife art, music and photos. 
  1. An original Oil Painting: by fine artist, Lori McNee.  My personal favorite painting is, “High Country Cattle”. Purchase now and save 20% on the price.

  

  2. Fine Art Photography: by professional wildlife photographer, Stacey Huston.  Some of the best wildlife photos around.  

  

  3. Music: Talented and beautiful Native American singer. Great music! Check out her CD!!!!

• A New Shotgun:  The Browning Maxus Stalker. Duck season is here and with a name like ’stalker’ you can’t go wrong with.     
•  A GPS: The Garmin GPS. Choose from their many Global Positioning Satellites, but be prepared and don’t get lost.  Another ‘must have product’ for any outdoor or back-country enthusiast!
• A New Bow: Matthews Bows. Proven and reliable in the field. I took my first bull elk with this bow…

The Dallas Heritage Village is a unique look into Christmas’s past of Dallas Texas.  The Dallas Heritage Village brings you back to the holidays from the 1840’s right up through 1910 with festively decorated homes of the time period, costumed living history characters roaming the grounds as well as old fashioned carriage rides.  A Main Street Stage features dancers, choirs and entertainers as carolers stroll the grounds.  The Candlelight Events take place on Saturday December 12th and Sunday December 13th 2009 from 3PM until 9PM.  Admission is $10 for adults, $6 for children 4-12 years of age and $8 for seniors.  Receive a $2 per ticket discount by ordering your tickets in advance on-line.  Onsite self parking is $5 per car.  Carriage rides are $4 per person, per ride.  An all you can eat holiday buffet is available for $12.95 adults, $10 for seniors and $7.50 for kids 8 years of age and younger.  On Thursday, December 10th 2009 a special day for seniors will take place from 10AM-2PM.  Admission to the seniors day is $5 or $12.95 if you wish to pre-order a boxed lunch to enjoy that day.  Parking is free of charge on seniors day.

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Dallas Heritage Village, Dallas Texas

A small (approximately 30 pounds) female bobcat was sighted at Cedar Hill State Park in Cedar Hill, Texas on Saturday December 5th, 2009.  It was running in the marina area and knew exactly how to conceal itself underneath the marina building.  Animal control with assistance of park staff tranquilized the animal and captured it for re-location to the Fort Worth Nature Preserve in Fort Worth, Texas.

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Bobcat in Cedar Hill State Park, Cedar Hill Texas

Santa Claus is in his village at the Dallas Galleria from November 21st 2009 thru December 24th, 2009.  Look for him on Level 2 near Saks Fifth Avenue every day during shopping hours.  If he is not in the village head over to the Galleria’s Ice Skating Rink.  If it is on a Saturday in December 2009 (the 5th, the 12th or the 19th of December) at 5PM he will be on the ice performing back flips.  This is the only place to see Santa Missle Toes in action.  As you enjoy the skating show feast your eyes on the majestic Christmas Tree rising over the ice skating rink.  This Christmas Tree, the country’s tallest indoor Christmas Tree, will enthrall young and old.

The Dallas Galleria is located at 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas Texas 75240  972-702-7100

tags

Christmas at the Dallas Galleria, Santa Missle Toes ice skating performances, free family Christmas event Dallas Texas

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Christmas at the Dallas Galleria, Dallas Texas

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Calling Elk Bow Close

A friend of mine, best selling author and fellow hunter Marc Warnkerecently got into an online tussle with an anti-hunter about wolves. They sent him an article from a blog which included all of the “facts” on wolves and how they keep forests nutrient-rich. Neither Marc nor I are wolf haters, but we are realists. Here is Marc’s well thought out reply:

Thanks for the thought and I know your intent was to educate me and I appreciate that. I found this [article] interesting, yet not without obvious bias. I’ve personally witnessed different results, multiple times. But it’s all good. My main concern would be that we participate intelligently in the “predatory” cycle along with the wolves. People, hunters, and wolves are not the enemy or inherently bad. For some reason there is an agenda to slam one or the other to meet an agenda based on feelings. This is a logical issue. We all have a right to the resources, wolves and people alike. Population control and balance is the issue at hand, as it concerns prey and predictor species. Humans are the ones who are responsible for population control and people must claim our God given right to harvest wild game. This issue is not at all about the wolves. It’s about someone’s “pet species,” and the eventual agenda to replace our role as population controllers by eliminating hunting. Who is protecting the Idaho elk herds that are down as much as 90% in some areas. If humans did that, we would be put in jail. Please don’t take offense to this. I am very, very fearful of having my sons rights to hunt with me, taken away.

That is the agenda behind the “science.” If you think I’m exaggerating or a kook willing to entertain conspiracy theory please ask me the story sometime about the biologist I hired to tour me through the rain forest of N. Australia. He laid out the whole agenda because he didn’t know who he was speaking to. He thought I was friendly to the idea of gun ownership bans and making hunting illegal. He was very globally connected and said the agenda behind the wolf was to replace humans with a large predator for population control. When I asked him about the “predator pit” that will show up for the next several hundred years he said it was just a “cost of doing business.” A predator pit happens when a large predator is introduced into an environment and they eat all the prey species and boom in population. As the predator booms, the food (prey species) runs out and the predator dies off. In short, there are huge population swings that take hundreds of years to stabilize. My son will be attempting to learn to hunt during one of the lowest of lows of this population swing and for that I am resentful of someone’s pet project that was truly unessential.

~ Marc Warnke

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Geocaching.com zeroes in on DARPA Challenge

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Alaska to refund nearly $70M in fishing fees

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Wyoming anglers get rewards, restrictions for walleye

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Wildlife officials extend python hunt program

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Wis. DNR: Hunters killed 29 percent fewer deer

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Shepherd man denies illegally killing deer and elk

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Large fish kill in eastern Wisconsin

 In this day and age people are still caught up with the notion that bigger is better, size matters, how much do you have, was it a trophy, how much did it weigh and how big was the rack.  I can tell you for me, personally taking my first Bull elk with my bow was the most rewarding hunt having overcome personal challenges (total knee replacement), and spending quality time in the field, sharing it with good friends and family.  All creatures are trophies and when you take a life of an animal there is no score in my book accept a personal satisfaction of matching your skills in the woods with one of god’s finest creatures.  So far, I have had the pleasure of sharing Elk pasta, Elk salami and Elk burgers with many of my friends and when asked was it a trophy I simply say, it was the trophy of a lifetime not because of the rack but because of the experiences shared.

 Hunting is not about the kill and has never been for me.  It is about spending time in the woods and getting back to nature.  After 12 years pursuing my passion of chasing elk with my bow I was able to harvest a beautiful Bull elk that in my book was a trophy and a hunt of a lifetime. 

Chris Burget -Bulls & Beavers LLC

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Black bear hunting proposed for Panhandle

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N.M. Game Commission considers earlier hunt application

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Mont. deer, elk season ends with higher numbers

The homeowners in the northwest Arlington subdivision of Interlochen participate in a healthy competition every year decorating their homes with extravagant Christmas light displays and holiday exhibits. The neighborhood streets are open to the public.  You are welcome to join the lines of cars snaking past the houses to view the beautiful holiday lights for free.  This year the lights will enthrall spectators from December 19th thru December 31st, 2009.  The route to view the lights traditionally begins at Randol Mill at Westwood, west of Cooper Street.  For more information, call the Arlington City Manager’s Office at 817-459-6100  .  NOTE: The route this year will move in the opposite direction. Visitors will now enter Interlochen off Westwood Drive and will make a left on Crowley Road and follow the signs around the neighborhood, going through Porto Bello Court at the end of the tour, then exiting on to Westwood.  Due to the immense popularity of this neighborhood, plan to spend a few hours on this tour.

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Interlochen Lights Display, Arlington Texas

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Was record Cannon Falls 8-pointer shot with gun?

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Police arrest 6 in poaching, theft case

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2 plead guilty in 2008 caribou killing case

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Hunters struggling to fill deer tags in S.D.

4 Hunting Days /1st Class accommodation/ 100% Guarantee/ 1 Spanish Ibex
All included 3.600 €

Due to a cancellation of a few clients, [our outfitter] has 3 permits to hunt Spanish Ibex with a discount of 40% in “la sierra de Filabres”, in the South of Spain.

The normal price of this hunt is: 5.300 €
BOOK IT NOW, ONLY 3 PERMITS

DAILY RATE INCLUDE:
·Meeting at airport and gun clearance
·Full board accommodation first class
·Guide-Interpreter during the hunt
·All ground transportation in Spain
·First preparation of the trophies
·All drinks
·Service of a translator that will accompany the time needs it

NOT INCLUDED:
·Observer: 230 € / Day
·Hunting license
·Insurance
·Documentation
·VAT
·Tips
·Extras of personal nature
·Rifle hire
·Specially requested imported food and drinks
·Cost of telephone calls
·Taxidermy processes and shipping charges.
·Flight tickets

For the observer non hunter: we have the option of tourism and shopping in the cities with a personalized guided that will show the interesting sites of our cities

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Ill. hunter gets 25-point buck with Google’s help

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Deer hunter success affected by late corn harvest

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Online hunting licenses surge in W.Va.

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1 dead, 1 shot in dispute over bear hunting in Pa.

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Wis. hunters take 100,000 deer on opening weekend

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Deer harvest dips 3 pct during Neb. firearm season

I wanted to take a second to write a quick review about the Muck Boots I got from Hanks Clothing. I ordered the Muck Woody Max Cold Conditions Hunting Boot, and from the first time I put them on I knew that they were going to become my “old reliable” pair of boots. They were durable, good looking and best of all, they fit and were comfortable. They’re not going to work for chasing elk around, but for pretty much everything else I can’t think of a better “fit”. I’ve had slip on boots before and they were great for quick chores around the house, but not much else. That’s not the case with my new Muck Boots. They’re good for both work and play. I do wish I had gotten them 1/2 size smaller though because there was a tiny bit of slip. That would be my only advice for somebody buying a pair. I solved that problem be just wearing an extra pair of thin socks. No big deal and I usually wear two pairs anyway for just that reason.

The first chance I got to wear them was on a recent pheasant hunting trip to South Dakota. I was surprised at how comfortable they were when I wore them all day. I was hunting with Dave Olsen from Pheasant Phun and I noticed he was wearing a pair of Muck Boots as well. I asked him about them and he gave me a rave review and told me that he had been hunting in his pair for four years and they’re still going strong.

Here in Idaho, my favorite place to pheasant hunt is a cattail slough below my house. This place is thick, muddy, nasty and tough on boots. The biggest problem is the muck. It just sucks the boots right off of your feet. I thought that Muck Boots would be the same way, especially since they are slip-ons, but I was wrong. I’ve tromped all through that swamp all season and my socks come home white every time. The pheasants sure aren’t happy about it though.

I’m looking forward to wearing them goose hunting this winter. I’ve always struggled with the right kind of boot for hunting in the fields. I have a good pair of leather boots that keep my feet warm, but they’re not the best in the mud and slop. I think my Muck Boots are going to be just what the doctor ordered for goose hunting. Warm and dry.

I don’t do a lot of tree-stand hunting, I’m mostly a spot-and-stalk type of guy, but I think that this is what most people would use them for and I’m sure that they would be great for that. As soon as I get a chance to try that out, I’ll let you know. In the mean time, all I know is that I’m going to have a lot of fun trying to wear them out.

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More than 4 million lights will dazzle you this Christmas Season on a 2 mile drive through Lynn Creek Park near Dallas, Texas.  A City of Grand Prairie event, this light extravaganza begins on Thanksgiving night 2009 and lasts through December 31st, 2009.  The entrance fee is $15 per car Monday through Thursday and $20 per car on Friday and Saturday and includes up to 8 people per vehicle.  Limos, shuttle vans and commercial busses can expect to pay higher entrance fees.  Mid-way through your drive you will come upon the Holiday Village.  You may stop here for the Holiday Magic Light Show and a Walk Through the Forest of Lights.  The Holiday Magic Light Show is a 10 minute show in a theatre setting.  Admission to the Holiday Magic Light Show or the Walk Through Forest  is $3 per adult and $2 per child.  A combination ticket for both attractions is $5 per adult and $3 per child.  Allow 45 minutes for the drive through the park during the week with light traffic.  Allow 1 1/2 hours if you include a stop at the Holiday Village.  Allow a full extra hour if you are touring the park on the weekends.  The Prairie Lights are on display at Lynn Creek Park, 5700 Lake Ridge Parkway, Grand Prairie Texas.  75052  Prairie Lights.org

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Prairie Lights, Grand Prairie Texas

More than 40 vintage locomotives travel across America on more than 2,500 feet of track at the NorthPark Center in Dallas, Texas this Christmas season.  The magical journey chugs by the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Rushmore, winds it’s way through the center of America including Dallas, Texas and on to the Statue of Liberty and Washington D.C. including the White House.  The Trains At NorthPark exhibit runs from November 21st, 2009 through January 3rd, 2010.  It is located at the NorthPark Center, 8687 North Central Expressway in Dallas, Texas on the 1st floor between Dillard’s and Macy’s.  The Trains at NorthPark is open from 10AM-9PM every day  but Sunday when they are open from 12Noon-6PM.  They are closed on Christmas Day.  On Christmas Eve they will close at 4PM and on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day they will close at 6PM.  Admission to The Trains at NorthPark is $6 for adults and $3 for children 2 thru 12 years as well as seniors 65 years of age and older.  Pick up a discount coupon good for $1 off the price of a regular admission at your local Tom Thumb Store.  Proceeds from The Trains at NorthPark benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.

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The Trains At NorthPark, Dallas Texas

Prince of Wales Island, the third largest island in the United States, is the crown jewel of Southwest Alaska. Black bear grow to epic proportions. This is awe-inspiring gorgeous country. A temperate rain forest, this part of Alaska receives over 220 inches of rain annually. This is a land of snow covered peaks, emerald green cedar and spruce forests, dense vegetation and endless muskeg bogs. Fresh chrome colored salmon and steelhead crowd the many rivers crisscrossing the land. The numbers of Sitka Blacktail deer boggle the mind. There are no Brown bear on the island, so with no competition and an endless source of grasses, berries, and protein the Black bear here are numerous, and big. In fact, on POW the largest Black bear grow to rival Grizzly bear from the lower 48.

Extensive logging has created an incredible Eden for wildlife. Deer and bear numbers have soared in the wake of timber harvest. Something to make clear (no pun intended): a clear cut is anything but clear. The trees are cut anywhere from 5 to 15 feet above the ground and the slash left lying where it fell. The ground is fertile, and trees grow like weeds. What looks like an easily traversed clear cut is in reality a dense, tangled, impossibly impenetrable jungle of stumps and slash jammed with thick-as-grass 8’-15’ tall spruce and cedar.

A rifle would definitely make this easier, but that’s not the point. I was here to bow hunt for a trophy black bear, and nothing less would do. And I was here alone, hunting without a guide or hunting partner. There’s deep satisfaction to be found at the intersection between common sense and skillfully flinging razor tipped death sticks.

The hunt to this point had been a personal journey full of introspection and lessons in the humility that comes to one who hunts with a bow. Bow hunting is clearly not about killing. It is not easy. The distances must be intimately close, sometimes uncomfortable so. There is a bond that develops from understanding your prey. As an alpha predator, bears demand and deserve your respect. Not only can they quickly turn the tables to maim or kill, but they are wary to the point of seeming to possess a sixth sense to compliment their extraordinary sense of smell. They say that a bear has a sense of smell 800 times more acute than a human, and that they can not only smell your scent on the trail, but can tell how many days since you were there. A worthy quarry, with one swipe of its paw even a small 150 pound bear has the