Friday, October 30, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.-Whether they work individually or as part of a group, volunteers are essential to conservation today-even more so tomorrow.

That's the consensus of conservation professionals who predict that fish, wildlife and habitat, as well as the future of America's sporting traditions, will depend more and more on devoted souls whose only paycheck is the personal reward of preserving traditional values and passing on a cherished way of life.

Volunteerism spans from teaching a neighbor kid to cast at a nearby pond to serving on a board that directs policy for international wildlife habitat initiatives.

A conservation organization can be an effective channel for many volunteer passions.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:09 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, October 30, 2009

The adventure started Wednesday October 21, 2009. My dad, sister and I woke up that morning around 4:30 to finish packing our clothes and hunting gear into our truck. There was excitement in the room as my dad said "ok let's get in the truck and go" we said goodbye to Mom and she wished us luck. We climbed into the truck and headed to our friends house, Wayne to meet up with him because he would be joining us on the Maryland hunt also. We got to his house around 7:30 and he loaded up his truck and I jumped in with him and we hit the road with our GPS's set for Bridgetown Manor Henderson, Maryland.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:47 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, October 29, 2009

This November and December, 14 wounded warriors will enjoy excellent deer hunting in Alabama thanks to the Semper Fi Community Task Force and outdoor companies such as Alpen Optics. Alpen Optics, which has developed top quality binoculars, spotting scopes, rifle scopes and accessories, will show their appreciation for these heroes by donating waterproof monoculars to each hunter. "The small, but bright monoculars are ideal for spotting game and are lightweight and easy to carry," said Vickie Gardner, Alpen Optics' vice president of stuff. In addition, Alpen has provided hats, key chain lights and more for the gift bags that will be presented to the Marines and soldiers participating in the hunts. Hunters will be guided by expert deer guides on premier private property. In addition, they will use blinds designed for those with special needs. "We want these very special heroes to know how much their fellow citizens appreciate what they have done for their country and to know we have not forgotten them," said J. Wayne Fears, outdoor writer and Wounded Warrior planning committee member. "There is a peace to be found when hunting with good friends, and we hope to help these wounded warriors find that peace, and the healing that comes with being in the outdoors."

To learn more about Alpen Optics visit their website at www.alpenoutdoor.com or www.alpenoptics.com , or by calling 877-987-8370.

For more information about the Wounded Warrior Project, visit their website at http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 07:23 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.-New grants from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will fund conservation and education projects in eight Michigan counties, and swell total RMEF support for the state's Pigeon River Habitat Initiative to more than $190,000.

The 2009 RMEF grants will affect Cheboygan, Delta, Montmorency, Muskegon, Oakland, Otsego, Ottawa and Presque Isle counties.

"Our volunteers in Michigan devoted themselves to the 2008 fundraisers that made these grants possible. This is where Elk Foundation banquets, auctions and other events transform into on-the-ground conservation work, and it's part of the payday for all of our supporters who are passionate about giving something back to the outdoors," said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO.

RMEF has been a major supporter of the Pigeon River Habitat Initiative in each of the past four years and in 2003. Contributions have helped secure conservation easements, develop forest stewardship management plans, provide technical assistance for landowners, offer cost-share programs to help with wildlife plantings, and more.

Collectively, these efforts have impacted hundreds of acres for elk and other wildlife.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:01 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn.˜Fall is a time of year parents and their children enjoy doing things together˜attending soccer matches, carving scary jack-o'-lanterns, raking leaves (OK, maybe that one's not so much fun) and gathering around the table for Thanksgiving dinner. It's also a great time of year to introduce a young person to hunting.

Hunting seasons are open across the country. From deer to upland birds, waterfowl, wild turkey, squirrel and rabbits, hunters have their choice of game to pursue. When the time is right for an adult mentor to introduce a youth to hunting, the National Shooting Sports Foundation's STEP OUTSIDE program helps make that introduction fun.

You can start by sending your son or daughter an electronic postcard with a colorful photo of the game animal or hunting scene of your choice. This helps youth visualize the experience, and it's a nice surprise when the e-postcard pops up in their inbox.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

I love supporting hard working Americans and Mike at Best Cresting is just such an American.  Mike has been cresting arrows for himself and friends for the last several years and started his own business to pursue his passions of archery.  I met Mike on Facebook and took a look at his work.  His arrows are exceptional and beautifully done.

I don't shoot competitively at the current time and to be honest I have never even shot a competitive archery course in my whole life.  I have shot a couple of good targets and most of my shooting is into the block or while out hunting.  Practice and shooting grouse and squirrels had really taken its toll on the last 3 dozen arrows that I had purchased over the last several years.  When I collected my gear for Manitoba, I had a total of 9 arrows and they were from 3 different manufacturers.

It was time to upgrade so i called Mike, bought a dozen arrows and gave him free reign to produce a dozen arrows for me and to come up with any design he felt would work.  My only stipulation was that I wanted 2 white vanes and a pink vane.  I was thinking Hot Pink for visibility and a color we do not really see much in nature...Well, I got Girly Pink!  It absolutely was not Mike's fault, I had never said Hot Pink and never even thought twice...

Either way, the arrows rock, the cresting is beautiful and I could not be happier...We put a small helical on these arrows and holy cow do they shoot straight.  If your looking for some new arrows and you would like something that matches your set up, give Mike a call, his work is exceptional.

Bestcresting Arrow Cresting

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:59 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Boise, Idaho - Safari Club International's Treasure Valley Chapter is set to receive a piece of hunting history as the Idaho Fish & Game Commission authorized the award of two Gray Wolf conservation tags commemorating the first public wolf hunt in state history.

Ten commemorative tags, bearing serial numbers 1 through 10, which will allow hunters to harvest one wolf, are being used to help promote gray wolf conservation and management in the state. The tags will be auctioned or raffled by six different conservation organizations with the proceeds going towards continued wolf conservation and management efforts based on sound-science in the state to help ensure that that hunters in Idaho can continue hunting wolves under state regulated seasons.

Winners of the tags will receive a tag for hunting and a framed commemorative tag from Idaho Fish and Game. Winners must also be eligible to hunt in Idaho and have a 2009 resident or non-resident Idaho hunting license.

"We commend the Idaho Fish and Game Commission for giving Safari Club International's Treasure Valley Chapter the opportunity to contribute to Idaho's important conservation effort," said Jack Lupien, Treasure Valley Chapter President. "We know that Idaho's hunting and conservation community will be excited about future seasons for years to come."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:36 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Before I give my evaluation, I must start with two important background facts…
First, my husband, Don, calls me the ‘princess and the pea’ with my feet and comfort issues, so I had high expectations and apprehensions for these ‘ordered’ boots. I am a try on before I buy kind of person.

Second, I started this evaluation with an ‘attitude.’ 
Like many major hunting and outdoor businesses, Wolverine caters to men.  My husband had pages and page of all types of boots to choose from.  We picked a perfect pair, and he knew it as soon as he slipped them on his feet.  For me, I had a choice of one pair in women’s.  I got the Ridgeline model w05639 , I was looking for comfort, something durable yet soft-sided for major walking.  I’ve been through too many other shoes and boots, and uncomfortable hunting trips, so I know how important this is.Now they don’t have the features of my husband’s boots (and his look really cool too), but my feet, with good hiking socks, are VERY comfortable in my Wolverines.  I had no toe problems, no ball of feet problems.  The ankles, however, were a bit of a challenge.  I tried lacing the boots tight, I tried lacing them loose.  They rubbed, chaffed, and caused bruising.  Before the trip, I tried to break them in on 2 ½ mile walks.  Some days were great, some good, and some not.  It was a very inconsistent feel on the ankles, but the feet were great.

The real test, what I got them for, was hunting.  They were great.  We slopped through water on the way to bear blinds (for my husbands’ bear), sat in tree stands and ground tent blinds for 8 hours at a time.  My feet were dry, warm, comfortable, and when we had to track the bear at dusk into the night, I was thankful for that ankle support as we stumbled around rocks and stumps.

Bottom line - I’d get them again.  They are very comfortable; the cut outs for the Achilles heal in the back help a lot.  They are much better than my older work boots that I was using for hunting.  I give them a B+, because I’m holding out that some day, women can have the camo type boots that men can get.

Ginny Powell

HuntingLife ProStaffer 

Wolverine Boots

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:31 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

I’ve developed my own new motto for Hunter’s Specialties, No Scent Left Behind.  These guys are amazing.  They seem to have thought of everything, especially in their Scent-A-Way scent elimination kit.  When I opened the box, I was surprised and delighted at all they had packed into one neat little package.

I’m so excited, I’m not sure where to start.  Do I start with the Scent-A-Way Laundry Detergent or the Body Soap and Shampoo?  Well, I’ll start with the detergent because you’ll want your hunting clothes scent-free when you put them on after showering with the Scent-A-Way soap and shampoo.

The laundry detergent is a color-safe, ultra-concentrated formula that eliminates odor, but doesn’t fade out your camo clothing.  Once the scent elimination detergent is used, H.S. has included in the kit a Scent-Safe Storage Bag.  The storage bag is about 36” by 28”, so it’ll easily store your de-scented hunting clothes.  It’s designed with a ziplock top to ensure your gear remains scent-free.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:13 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 26, 2009

In today's hunting world, it is easy to get caught up in the "new and improved" equipment that will get you that big buck of the lifetime. Sure all of this stuff is great, and chances are if you use it correctly, it will be to your advantage in the woods. A few specific items that have taken over the industry are scent control clothing and accessories.

It is a well-known fact that deer, along with most of the big game animals that hunters target every year, have an outstanding sense of smell. Take the whitetail deer for example; an animal of prey by nature's law, the deer has evolved an arsenal of abilities and behaviors to avoid predators. Deer have the ability to pick up the slightest movement, they can hear what seems to be dead silence, and they can pinpoint a sounds location with the flick of an ear. The deer's most impressive weapon by far is its nose. The deer's nose has about 40 times more receptors than does a human olfactory system. Researchers also believe that deer are approximately 4,000 times as sensitive to odors than people are. Taking those facts into consideration, it is no wonder why you see scent elimination supplies filling up the isles at your local outdoor store.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:10 PM | 6 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 26, 2009

MISSOULA, Montana-Elk and other wildlife in the nation's breadbasket will benefit from $31,343 in new grants from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. The grants will help fund conservation and education initiatives in Kansas, Nebraska and Oklahoma.

Grant amounts are based on RMEF fundraisers held in the respective states.

"Elk Foundation volunteers drove the 2008 banquets, auctions and other fundraising events that made these grants possible. This is where their work begins to transform into on-the-ground conservation benefits, and it's part of the payday for our supporters who are passionate about giving something back to the outdoors," said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO.

RMEF grants will help fund the following projects, listed by state:

Kansas-Received RMEF 2009 grants totaling $15,250. Projects include reducing depredation on private land by managing about 200 forage plots covering 750 acres for elk and other wildlife at Fort Riley military reservation in Riley County; enhancing riparian habitat by treating noxious weeds and planting cottonwood, willow and native shrubs on 777 acres at Cimarron National Grasslands in Morton County; and sponsoring Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshops statewide, Big Brothers Big Sisters Pass It On Outdoor Mentors programs statewide, and Ninnescah Valley Archery Club youth education programs in Pratt County. RMEF partners include the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and other conservation groups.

Nebraska-Received RMEF 2009 grants totaling $8,075. Projects include developing methodology for aerial elk surveys in the western panhandle of Nebraska including Dawes and Box Butte counties; and funding two scholarships for wildlife conservation students at Chadron State College. RMEF partners include the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Oklahoma-Received RMEF 2009 grants totaling $8,018. Projects include creating forage openings for elk, rejuvenating water impoundments and maintaining firebreaks at Spavinaw Wildlife Management Area in Delaware and Mayes counties; and enhancing forage for elk and other wildlife by prescribe burning 8,195 acres at Pushmataha Wildlife Management Area in Pushmataha County. RMEF partners include the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and other conservation groups.

Since 1984 in these three states, the Elk Foundation and its partners have completed 155 conservation and education projects with a value of more than $9.8 million.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 02:45 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 26, 2009

I've always been told all knowledge is good. As hunters we must continuously filter, store, and decipher information to make the best choices for our hunts. This season has been one of frustration for me due to personal matters that have limited my scouting and hunting time to near zero. On opening weekend, unable to hunt myself, I was able to steal an hour to share in the success of my fellow bow hunters at our local deer butchering station. One thing I heard really stuck in mind. Joe was saying how he had rattled a 140 class under his stand last evening. Unfortunately the buck never presented anything but a frontal shot, and Joe was ethical enough to pass, always a hard decision on a buck of that caliber. What struck me as strange was I have never seen much success with the horns prior to pre rut time in early November. A little bit of intel to store in my brain.

I was finally able to find a few hours on Thursday morning for a little bow hunting. Not having the scouting I usually have under my belt by now, I choose a stand I have much success in years gone by. I never carry my horns this early in the season, but had thrown my Primos rattle bag in my carry bag based on Joe's tale of the giant buck. A still and warm dawn gradually unfolded around me. As perfect as it seemed, deer movement was non-existent. Figuring I had nothing to lose, I beat and rolled the rattle bag around in my hands for a good 30 seconds or so. I had barely switched the bag for my bow, when I saw a set of deer legs headed in my direction at a very quick pace. A nice 8 point buck was headed toward my tree with his head down like a bird dog on a running pheasant. At less than ten yards my Matthews Drenalin sent an arrow though both his lungs and he went down on the spot. Had I not picked up that little piece of information from Joe, I would never have even though of rattling that early in the season. Thanks Joe!

Rattling has accounted for the two biggest bucks of my life and certainly is hands down my favorite way to hunt whitetails. There is no bigger adrenalin rush then to have a big buck charge into the horns. For every hard charging buck though, there are two that sneak in quietly, and size of the buck seems to have little to with the aggression of their response. This was the first buck I have ever called in with any sort of artificial horns (bag), always believing nothing could match the sound of the real things.
Another little bit of intel. Here are a few of the lessons I have learned calling over the past 20 years of rattling success. Wind is everything. How hard it's blowing and which direction will determine your success or failure more than any other factor. Still mornings tend to have the highest attraction rate, followed by mid day. I have had very little success with evening stands and the studies from Texas bear this out. Blind rattling has produced far more bucks for me than rattling at cruising bucks off in the distance. When I see a buck out of range I grunt and sometimes use a doe bleat can with great success. Always expect the responding buck to try to get downwind of your position so try to pick a stand that can exploit this. I don't believe you can rattle too loud, and I always bang the horns for all I'm worth. Again the studies from Texas bear this out. Lastly, the Texas study showed that you will only see about a third of the bucks that respond, and that number plummets if you rattle from the ground instead of a tree.

I urge you all to try this exciting method of deer calling. Many are skeptical, but it works everywhere bucks are found, just not every time. Keep at it and you will experience the thrill of an aggressive buck coming to pick a fight with you. Good hunting.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 02:39 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 26, 2009

When I was younger I was always interested in rifles and hunting. I  was interested in it from the day I shot my first rifle, it was a .223 Remington up at our cabin with my great grandfather. My great grandfather has always been proud of my shooting because as the years progressed I started to get better than him my grand father and my mother.

My first hunt ever was with my mother at one of her friends ranch.  We got out in the field and she shot a doe. Ever since then my dream has been that I would become a pro hunter or guide and be able to travel around the world or the country hunting new game that I have never shot before.

I shot my very first deer when I was twelve years old with my grand father and my mom, it was a nice typical 3x2, after that my interest with rifles started not becoming a challenge to me. I wanted a bigger challenge, bigger than just shooting something from hundreds of yards away I wanted to get closer than that.  So that is how I got into bow hunting, it just seemed like more fun and a bigger challenge. 

I bought a Martin bow that was a forty pound bow  so I could not really go out for an elk or any thing.  I bought it  from a sporting good store in our town I got better and better over the year shooting at their range non stop almost every day just to get better. That hunting season I shot my first deer with my bow it was a Mulley doe at about 28 yards. The doe that I shot yesterday was my seventh animal.

I have had more fun bow hunting than I have ever in my life. This year has to be my most favorite year for hunting ever, even though the general season has not even started yet. This year I wanted to try some thing new and try hunting out of a tree stand it was my first year ever to do it. I have hunted out of ground blinds and all sort of stuff also have had not too bad of luck on spot and stalking animals.  When I was13 I shot a 5x6 mule deer the spot and stalk way. That was the biggest buck I have shot yet, Pope and Young score was 138 3/8.  When I was 14 I shot a 4x5 mule deer. 

This year I started out the season really lucky I went out the opening day of archery season and started to head out to my stand and there were deer already sitting in the hay field so I thought I should just back out of there and not scare them out. I returned to my stand the next afternoon.  I got set up in my stand, got my bow ready and everything.  About a half an hour later I started to have deer moving into the hay field.  I passed up about ten does because I did not want to just shoot some thing the first hour I was there and spook them out of the field, so I waited about another hour and watched some deer cross the river coming towards the field that I was hunting in.

Then I couldn’t here them any more so I started to watch some other deer.  The deer were really spooky all day long. I was watching these deer start to go out of range then I hear something move from the bushes to the side of me. I started to watch it pretty good,  I took my eyes off it for about a minute to watch another place and when I looked back to were I heard the noise and there was a beautiful 4x4 whitetail buck all in velvet chasing a doe.   I used my range finder and he was at about 32 yards,  I placed my pin right on the kill zone and released my arrow. I hit him perfect, he did not run more than twenty yards and dropped over dead.  The reason I am telling you about almost all of my hunts I have been on is because to me every time I get a chance to go out it is way too much fun just being out in the wilderness.     

But my favorite hunt of all time had to be the hunt I went on yesterday with a kid that I have known since he was a baby. His family took care of me last while my mom was in the hospital with cancer. He had been asking me if we could go hunting some time soon, so yesterday I thought it would be a good day to take him out. We first went up to a spot that one of my friends shot a doe. We got up there and it was a crappy day out  because it was about to snow and it was really windy.  But to me it was just fun because I got spend some time with him. He kept telling me I hope you shoot some thing, so I decided to go to one of my friends ranches out in the valley where the chances were better.  On the way out to the ranch we were looking up in this field off the road watching elk, it made his day to see some elk. We got to the ranch and got out of the truck watching some deer.  I asked if he wanted to go after them, of course he wanted to.  We got all of our stuff on and I sprayed him down with some scent killer, he did the same to me. The deer were just on the other side of the ranches junk yard so I had him walk with me.  These deer had no idea that we were there.  I told him to walk close to me so it would not scare them off as easy as if they saw two of use. I spotted the deer and we started to stalk them just a little closer. I went around a large bush with him, and showed him which one I was going to shoot. 

I used the range finder and she was at 51 yards.  I took the shot and hit her perfect right in the kill zone.  She ran about 80 yards and dropped dead.  The look on Ty's face was worth shooting the deer in so many ways. We walked over to where I shot him trying to find my arrow. When we got to the animal he was stoked to be out there hunting.  He helped me gut it out and before we started to drag her we had to do something that I have done with all of my animals.  We took two fingers dipped in blood and wiped it on his face and he wiped it on my face to say thank you to the deer that gave her life for us.   He helped me drag the deer to my truck.  After that I took some pics of him and the deer. He was really proud of that and so was I.  

That had to be favorite hunt of all time just to be out there with him and enjoying the hunt with him.

Editors Note: From time to time we are going to be adding stories from aspiring writers and Pro Staff.  We hope you will enjoy the enthusiasm and excitement these hunters share for their passions!!!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 02:08 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 26, 2009

Elkhorn Outfitters devoted it's 4th week of October to hunting with the youth. Hosted by Jim Zumbo and the Outdoor Channel, these kids were required to write an essay to Elkhorn based on what hunting means to them and their families. Upon review, Dick and Cheryl Dodds (Owners of Elkhorn) invited 8 of the essay contestants to come hunt over 100,000 acres near Craig Colorado on Management tags, ranging from Antelope to Elk.

My excitement to be apart of this week was unmeasurable; partly because I was a youth hunter during the same youth week at Elkhorn 10 years ago and now was apart of the same week except on the other side of the fence as a guide. I knew how cool of an experience I had sharing my first big game hunt with my father and now had a chance to be with and share that same experience with two youth hunters and their fathers!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:59 AM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Archery is one of the oldest shooting sports, yet it ranks high in participation among both genders and youth. More and more women each year are joining the archery shooter statistics. Before you go out and buy a bow, the following should help to make your purchase a success for you at the range or in the bow stand.

As with most shooting and hunting equipment, proper fit is one of the most important aspects. Before purchasing a bow, you should get measured for length of pull and draw weight. Many companies have bows available for women and youth that are more compact for smaller stature and a lighter draw weight.

You don't want too light of a draw weight if you're going to use the bow for hunting, because the lighter the draw weight, the less kinetic energy in the released arrow and the less impact on your target. On the other hand, you don't want the draw weight set so high that you can't get the bowstring pulled back. Bows are designed that the draw weight can be adjusted up or down. It's a good idea to start at a lower weight. Practice several days at the lower weight then adjust the weight up in five-pound increments over the next few weeks to a weight that you can comfortably pull back.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:09 AM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Bow hunting in eastern Oregon is one of my favorite seasons, brisk mornings' warm afternoons and still plenty of daylight to satisfy even the most regimented of schedules.

The phone rings late one night, its Denny he hasn't gotten an Elk yet and the last weekend is upon us. I agree that I will go with him and help him by calling the elk so he can get one. 6 am rolls around I'm outside sipping on hot coffee in the early morning chill watching the Dew on the grass dry... Waiting...

7 am nothing.. I called Denny just to make sure he woke up. Who wouldn't! Its Bow season! He's on the way had battery problems. Coffee is gone, most of the morning dew is dried up already and I am thinking NO WAY are we going to get in the Elk! They will be bedded down already...UGH! This is a waste of time I can be doing so much more than running around looking for sleeping elk!

But after all we were friends. That's what friends do... Help each other especially in a small town.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:42 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

EDGEFIELD, S.C. - The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) announced Monday that respected wildlife biologist Donnie Buckland has joined the Federation's conservation department as Director of Upland Programs.

"We are thrilled to welcome Donnie to the NWTF family," said George Thornton, NWTF CEO. "His valuable experience and leadership will be an asset to our conservation staff and will have an immediate impact on our wildlife and land management programs."

Buckland joins the NWTF after a long career as a biologist with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, senior field representative with the National Rifle Association, and most recently, as senior vice president of Quail Unlimited.

"The NWTF's many great accomplishments benefit not only turkeys, but many species of wildlife," said Buckland. "I see this as a great opportunity to join a team that has a passion for wild turkey management that matches mine for quail and the upland habitat that both species require. I am eager to help the NWTF continue to have a positive impact on quail, turkeys and other wildlife, and the Federation has proven they have the resources and hard-working people to benefit wildlife populations, habitat, and both the hunters and non-hunters who enjoy North America's natural resources."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:39 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Saint Paul, Minnesota -- Tech Mix, Inc., makers of energy recovery and performance products for sporting dogs, have joined Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever's wildlife habitat conservation efforts as a new sponsor. For each Tech Mix product sold bearing the PF/QF logos, including K9 Restart™ Energy Bars, K9 Restart™ Chewables, K9 Restart™ Natu-Joint and K9 Performance Tabs™,Tech Mix will make a donation to support Pheasants Forever's conservation work.

"Sporting dogs need instant energy and the proper hydration to be their best," said Mike Nelson, President of Tech Mix, Inc., "But they also need wild spaces to do what they do. It's exciting to develop this relationship with Pheasants Forever and all its loyal supporters who value their dogs not only as companions but working partners in the field."

"Sporting dogs help create and keep conservationists, as evidenced by the 70 percent of Pheasants Forever members that are dog owners," said Joe Duggan, Pheasants Forever Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Relations, "Keeping that companion happy and healthy is a must, and we're proud to call Tech Mix, Inc. partners in conservation."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:33 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

The omission of a regulation that has been in place for decades in this year's digest has caused some hunters and trappers to wonder whether they still are required to display their licenses in the middle of the back as has been done for many, many years. "Yes, it still needs to be displayed," Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe answered.

Roe noted that the Game Commission is supporting House Bill 460, sponsored by Rep. Neil Goodman (D-Schuylkill), which proposes to remove the statutory requirement that licenses be displayed, and thereby allow hunters to place their hunting license in their wallet with other ID.

When the agency was drafting the digest this spring, Roe said it was believed that the HB 460 would be enacted before the start of the license year on July 1. So, to avoid potentially conflicting information, a decision was made to modify the wording about the requirement that licenses must be displayed.

"License buyers do need to remember that the digest is not the 'Game & Wildlife Code' or its attendant regulations, and should not be considered final on legal interpretation," Roe said. "In printing the digest, the agency simply summarizes the more important and frequently misunderstood hunting and trapping regulations."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:53 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 19, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—More than $23,000 in hunting guns, bows and gear will be raffled at five 2010 consumer sports shows in the Ultimate Elk Hunter’s Raffle presented by International Sportsmen’s Expositions (ISE) and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Raffle monies will be used for RMEF habitat projects in the respective ISE show states.

In 2009, RMEF passed 5.6 million acres of habitat conserved or enhanced, and over a half-million acres opened or secured for public access.

Five prizes valued at $4,500 total will be raffled at each 2010 ISE show, including:

1. •    Denver, Colo.—Jan. 7-10
2. •    San Mateo, Calif.—Jan. 14-17
3. •    Sacramento, Calif.—Jan. 21-24
4. •    Phoenix, Ariz.—Feb. 26-28
5. •    Salt Lake City, Utah—March 18-21

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:17 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 19, 2009

HuntWiser

I have been thinking and looking at my notes from our Moose & Bear hunt this past September 2009.

My wife was lucky enough to draw a hard-to-get Moose tag in New Brunswick Canada this year. I went along to hunt Bear with my bow. Certainly a win-win situation for all.

I personally thought about a product like this years ago. I get hundreds of ideas like them while sitting in a tree stand or a ground blind for days on end. And I'm sure we all could undo the world's problems while our minds wonder in the beautiful silence of the woods.

Like most, we never follow through. So when I saw this ad for Huntwiser. I immediately called our great guru of Huntinglife and asked him to follow up a conversation I had with the owner. Kevin had gotten back to me in a few days and I was told a case was on its way, and it was a go. I was very excited about this product because of my previous visions of taking a pill of some kind and becoming invisible to our prey's most powerful tool, its nose.

I notified our outfitter that we were going to test this product and I needed total cooperation from him or anyone out with us. He e-mailed me back with total assurance and I'm sure he had thoughts of "what kind of client have I gotten myself this time!"

We arrived at our destination of True North Outfitters in New Brunswick Ca. with owner Kory Leslie waiting for us right on time. On our first day we sighted in my bow, which made the trip in perfect shape, and went to the rifle range to get my wife, Ginny's rifle sighted in. Again all was well.

That afternoon we/I were to go out and sit in a tree stand for the first time. So this is when we had to bring out the HuntWiser to show and explain it to Kory and Benji, his friend/helper/tracker and every title one can give someone... OH, and great roadside cook.

They agreed to try it. We all did our normal scent protection of changing our protected clothing out of the truck and before going into sit. We also sprayed down with scent eliminator and had already started after lunch taking our "candy." After the first minute of HuntWiser in our mouth we all came up with the same thought... This stuff tastes just like the hard candy our Grandmothers always had on the tables for all us kids when we visited them. It's like a hard candy that has a grape, berry kind of nice taste.

On our first evening on a stand with Grandma's candy in our mouths we had bear as close as 3 feet. We had a young one scamper up our tree underneath us. Even the big ones never knew we were there. The wind changed 2 or 3 times and they never caught our scent.

Time for a down and dirty evaluation...

The biggest problem with Huntwiser is we almost ran out of the stuff. We all used it all the time, the owner, guides and ourselves. Did we have bears around us??? All the time! Did I shoot my bear 15 yards from a tent blind? Absolutely!

Along with normal scent control this product makes more sense then wearing scent controlled underwear. We were never winded, never even looked at. And at times we could have choked on it because the bears were so close.

Is the product as good as it says? I can't answer that because I'm not a scientist, but what I can say for sure. There are at least five believers that won't go hunting without it.

Just think for a few seconds about it.... Grab that quick salami with pickle and mustard sandwich, fast cup of coffee, some chocolate cookies at a lunch break. Then spray down each other and NOT doing anything for your breath? I'm hooked.

You should try it. But remember the one thing I told you to watch out for... running out. So make sure you get enough...

OH!!! I forgot about the Moose Hunt. The rut was not on and only a few road hunters had gotten some spikes and cows. So we can't give an evaluation of how it would have worked getting close to a moose. But that's hunting.

And for my beautiful bear I shot a 15 yards' with my bow...it's already at the taxidermist.

Don Rickards ( eldondo, worlds 2nd greatest )
Hunting Life Pro Staffer

www.Huntwiser.com

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:14 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Saint Paul, Minn. - October 15, 2009 - Recently, high ranking officials at the U.S. Department of Agriculture spoke at public forums in support of the Conservation Reserve Program's (CRP) wildlife benefits and the need to protect the program's legacy. While the verbal support for CRP may signal that hunter's messages are being heard within the halls of USDA, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever says now is not the time to rest easy. Just last month, USDA announced that one of their policy options under consideration is to drop CRP enrollment to 24 million acres nationwide.

On Monday, October 5th, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack joined South Dakota Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin in Bath, South Dakota for a Rural Issues Forum. At that event, the Secretary commented on the need for CRP to be at the program's 32 million acre cap. He also suggested it was time for a reallocation of available acres to meet the demands of CRP practices like the very popular new State Acres For wildlife Enhancement (Conservation Practice 38), which reached its 50,000-acreage allotment in South Dakota many months ago.

On Wednesday, October 7th, Farm Service Agency Administrator Jonathan Coppess testified before the U.S. House Agriculture Sub-Committee during a hearing on conservation programs. Pheasants Forever's Vice President of Government Affairs Dave Nomsen was in attendance for that hearing.

"Administrator Coppess reiterated Secretary Vilsack's comments from South Dakota that USDA intends to keep CRP at, or nearly fully-subscribed at, 32 million acres. He also noted that SAFE and CREP sign-ups may be valuable tools toward that goal," reported Nomsen. "I was also pleased to hear that a general CRP sign-up may be available next year. With 3 million acres expiring on September 30th of this year and another 5 million acres expiring next year, it was welcome news in support of conservationist's favorite program."

The USDA's Farm Service Agency has asked the public for comments on CRP. That comment period is quickly coming to a close next Monday, October 19th. If you haven't participated in this important process as yet, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever have some simple suggestions for what to communicate by sending an email to CRPcomments@tecinc.com.

· Request USDA implement CRP at its maximum acreage of 32 million acres, and that USDA request additional authority for an expanded CRP of at least 40 million acres from Congress
· Call for a new CRP General Signup
· Call for new authority for Continuous CRP programs such as CRP SAFE and CRP Upland Bird Habitat Buffers
· Ask that all Continuous CRP including CRP SAFE and CRP Upland Bird Habitat Buffers, be made available to all expiring contract holders

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:48 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, October 18, 2009

After five hunting trips this season and well over 30 hours already in the stand together tonight my best friend and cameraman connected with a big doe. Finally, we got our first deer of the season as we traded high fives in the tree stand and tried to wipe the silly grins off our faces. Now the work began!!!!

My best friend Caleb and I started out this evening and just as we had four times before except it was usually cold and raining. At 43 degrees, we were defiantly feeling deer season in our bones. At around 5:30pm we both scrambled out of the truck because we were running very late and ran to the tree stand. After settling in and catching our breath, we settled in for a long afternoon so we thought.

As we sat there whispering and joking around a doe was quietly sneaking up behind us. At 6:00pm, Caleb and I both froze like ice in the artic. That little doe had snuck right up on us and now we where caught off guard. As that moment passed, panic set in and the hunter instinct took over in both our minds. Caleb grabbed for the phone as I kept and eye on the deer and talked him through what to do.

Then all of a sudden, the doe seen Caleb and jumped into the bushes a few yards away. Caleb then came to full draw and as the doe decided whether to run or stay Caleb kept hold at full draw and to me it seemed like at least a minute and a half. Then the doe stepped out, and the silent click of Caleb's release echoed as a sonic boom, and the doe fell immediately down.

It was a perfect shot but the doe made an awful noise and began kicking and flopping around. Caleb looked at me and I looked at him and we both were like "Oh man what do we do." Caleb then hurried down the latter and shot two more arrows into the doe before she expired. After a couple of astonished gazes, he then returned to the tree to figure out what just happened. We sat there for about another hour and just replayed the shot and everything that had happened.

We slipped and fell all the way back to the truck, which was about 900 yards away. We did not call my dad just because the fact we really wanted to surprise him. Therefore, we loaded up the deer laughed for no reason and headed home.

It just goes to show that no matter the conditions no matter the circumstances perseverance pays off. Also, on a day like to day Caleb and I still feel like there was a little divine intervention and we thanked God for more successful day in the field.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:46 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, October 18, 2009

WASHINGTON - As hunting seasons across the country begin to open, clean water is again on the forefront of sportsmen's minds. An investigation into the effectiveness of the Clean Water Act by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee attracted praise from sportsmen's groups including Ducks Unlimited, the Izaak Walton League of America, the National Wildlife Federation, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Trout Unlimited. More than 20 million acres of wetlands and thousands of miles of streams are at risk for pollution and destruction because the Clean Water Act may no longer protect them.

"Clean water is the biggest issue for sportsmen, especially in this time of year when waterfowl and other game seasons are opening," said Dr. Scott Yaich, director of conservation programs for Ducks Unlimited. "With more than 20 million acres of wetlands at risk, not having clean water is a threat for waterfowlers gearing up for the season."

Clean Water Act protections were severely weakened in the wake of two Supreme Court cases that radically scaled back the types of waters covered by the law. These decisions directly threaten public health. For example, streams that do not flow year-round are especially at risk of losing protection. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that more than 117 million Americans receive their drinking water from public systems supplied by these streams.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:45 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Boelus, Neb. - October 15, 2009 - A group of Howard County residents have formed the nation's newest chapter of Quail Forever (QF). The group, called the Central Nebraska Chapter of QF, plans to improve area habitat as they help the local population of bobwhite quail continue its rapid growth.

"Considering the tough times bobwhite quail are having due to habitat losses across much of the U.S., all of us in central Nebraska are pretty fortunate to have the growing quail numbers we've seen in the last decade. This chapter wants to make sure those bird numbers continue to improve and this is our way of giving back," said George Burgess, the new chapter's president, a Boelus resident, and a lifelong hunter. "Our chapter is also focused on making sure opportunities continue to exist for young hunters interested in taking up our outdoor traditions."

"Howard County is actually surrounded by Pheasants Forever chapters that have spent the last two decades doing tremendous projects for wildlife habitat," explained Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever's Regional Field Representative Scott Smathers. "There was a void in Howard County and these individuals saw the opportunity to join forces with fellow PF folks and help improve the land for quail at the same time."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:42 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, October 18, 2009

 Decaturville, Tenn. - October 13, 2009 - Two western Tennessee shooting preserve owners have joined forces to create the state's newest chapter of Quail Forever <http://www.quailforever.org/> (QF). Jerry Lynn Phillips, owner of Turnbo Creek Shooting Preserve <http://www.turnbocreek.com/> and Barry Stinnett, owner of Lakeview Shooting Preserve, volunteered their free time to organize the new Tennessee River Quail & Dove Chapter of QF.
 
"People want to bring quail back, but they don't know how. Through Quail Forever, we're able to provide that missing habitat expertise that's been lacking," explained Tim Caughran, QF regional wildlife biologist. "The leaders in this new chapter have an interest in bringing quail back, as well as a desire to foster the passion for quail hunting that will grow the next generation of quail hunters."
 
QF's unique financial model also appealed to the new chapter's volunteer leaders. QF applies the successful Pheasants Forever model of empowering local chapters with the responsibility to determine how 100% of their locally raised conservation funds will be spent. As a result, grassroots chapter volunteers are able to see the fruits of their efforts locally, while belonging to a larger national organization with a voice on federal and state conservation policy.  Quail Forever and Pheasants Forever are the only national conservation organizations that operate through this truly grassroots structure.
 
In addition to Phillips serving as the new chapter's president, Stinnett has been elected treasurer, and Jeremy Vavouris has been elected youth & education chair. The new Tennessee River Quail & Dove QF Chapter plans to hold a quail hunt and banquet on Saturday, October 31st beginning at 1PM. The public is invited to attend. For more information about the event and the new Tennessee River Quail & Dove QF Chapter, please contact Phillips at (731)549-7568 or Stinnett at (731)206-0113.  
 
Tennessee is home to four QF chapters. For more information on Quail Forever in Tennessee, to start a chapter or join one of the states existing chapters, contact QF at (866)457-8245 or via email at contact@quailforever.org.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:38 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, October 18, 2009

It was September 26 and it was cold and rainy. It was officially the first day ever dedicated to youth deer hunting in Virginia. Every kid and especially parents looked forward to this day and it had finally come.

We decided and made plans for Hunters Helping Kids to take two kids hunting, while I was to go hunting with Dr. MacCarty on his property, who is one of the Hunters Helping Kids committee members. Deciding and finalizing our plans, we prepared for a great day of hunting.

We woke that morning at 5:00am and got ready to head out to the blind. We grabbed our gear and left, driving to Pittsylvania County to hunt. When we arrived, it was just becoming light enough to barely see without a flashlight. We walked to the blind and settled, waiting for any sign of deer.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:25 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, October 16, 2009

I received these pictures and the explanation below today. Not sure of the authenticity .

This bull was killed in the Yukon on 9-25. Elk were put in there in 1958 from Yellowstone Park. This was the first year they have been hunted. They drew for 15 permits.The hunter is Al Klassen. He's been a sheep guide in the Yukon and Northwest Territories and has personally guided over 100 Dall Ram kills. Preliminary gross score... 451 5/8

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:28 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, October 16, 2009

Wolverine® 12 Point Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots for Men.

Wolverine Boot evaluation:
HuntingLife Pro Staffer Don Rickards

I'm a boot freak, yep! Now the world knows it. I'm not hiding it any more.

One of the benefits of being a Pro Staffer with The HuntingLife.com is we get to test things from time to time. There has been a "few dump them in the trash can and don't waste your money on" things, but mostly there are good things. And once in a while there comes along a great thing. And that Great thing this time was a pair of Wolverine Boots.

As I said I am a boot freak so it's going to have to do and feel really good to retire the few "Ol Betsey Boots" I have.

The Wolverines arrived by UPS and when I opened them up the love affair started. Camo all around, and when I turned them over I was even more excited. No big mud clumber cleats. Nice rounded honey comb looking sole. We all know how much mud and thingems get in the soles of our boots getting in and out of out trucks or worse yet, walk in the house for a second because you forgot something.

Nope, we're looking good so far... I'm smiling. But I've been tricked before by those pretty first impressions. I'm not even going to ask her her name or buy her a drink. I'm just going to ask her to dance.

I sat down, she was easy to unlace. Slipped my foot in and wiggled my toes, so far so good. I laced them back up and stood up. I almost said the "L' word. But I've been there before. So I held off, walked around a bit with a grin on my face and said to them "ok let's see how you do outside".

We did our outside chores and even went on a deer stand scouting trip. By now I was in the middle of the woods talking to my new loves. Thank God no one was around.

We finished our chores and playing and now would be the final test. Could I go in and out of the house without leaving a trace?

We have a heavy door mat and with just the 2 or 3 manly do as your told wipes I went in, got something and returned to the garage. No one would know... no clumps of dirt no wet leaves, nothing.

I know from past experiences in going places like Africa and such you MUST have a great pair of broke-in boots for your trips or the whole trip could be ruined. I wore them the next day and put them away for my hunting trip over a month away. That's how sure I was of my LOVES named "New Betsy's".

When we arrived at our camp in Canada I wore them almost every day except the few days we were warned that we were to go into deep marsh and we would need our knee boots.

So for walking, for sitting in the blind or wet grasses and mud, these Boots are for you...

I'm keeping them, and using them too...You'll love them as much as I do.

www.wolverine.com

Don Rickards
Pro Staffer Huntinglife.com

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 07:48 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Bottineau, N.D. - October 13, 2009 - Residents from Bottineau County, North Dakota have formed the newest chapter of Pheasants Forever (PF). The group's first fundraising banquet will be held on Thursday, October 29th at the Bottineau Armory with the chapter's leaders focused on using those dollars to improve local habitat for pheasants.

"Being only 10 miles south of the Canadian border, our birds face tough winters. Through Pheasants Forever's model, our banquet dollars stay under our control for habitat projects to create winter cover for the birds here in Bottineau County," explained Ryan Getzlaff, the chapter's president and Bottineau resident.

PF is the only national conservation organization that empowers local chapters with the responsibility to determine how 100 percent of their locally raised conservation funds will be spent. This local control allows members to see the fruits of their chapter efforts in their own communities, while belonging to a national organization with a voice on federal conservation policy in Washington D.C.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:07 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Washington, DC - Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus House Co-Chair, Rep. Dan Boren introduced H.R. 3749, the Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act, late Wednesday in conjunction with the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation 20th Anniversary Banquet and Auction.

H.R. 3749 would direct the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management to utilize the "multi-use" mandates in their agencies' respective land management plans to promote sportsmen and sportswomen's access to forest and public lands, enhancing the ability of Federal land managers to provide, promote, and plan for recreational uses that balance the needs and interests of all outdoor enthusiasts.

"I introduced this legislation to preserve the heritage of hunting, fishing and shooting on our Federal public lands. Numerous reports in recent years have demonstrated what sportsmen already know; access to public lands is being closed or constrained due to increased development along boundary lines," said Rep. Boren.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:47 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Washington, D.C. --Safari Club International (SCI) and the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsman's Clubs Inc. (Federation) filed suit yesterday in New Jersey to force action on black bear management.

Despite the best efforts of the state's Fish and Game Council (Council), New Jersey's Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has refused to approve a new comprehensive black bear management policy (Black Bear Policy) that includes hunting as a management strategy. Under New Jersey law, without a policy in place, the State cannot hold a black bear hunt. The Commissioner's inaction has lead to a drastic increase in bear incidents state-wide since the last bear hunt in 2005.

SCI President Larry Rudolph said, "A well regulated hunt is essential for the sound and responsible management of black bear in New Jersey and for the safety of the general public. The goal of our lawsuit is simply to put legal pressure on the Commissioner and the Council to take the necessary action to adopt a Black Bear Policy. Forcing action on a policy will allow the Council -- the people entrusted under New Jersey law to manage wildlife -- to decide whether a hunt is both the appropriate means of managing the state's bear population and a valued recreational experience."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:44 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.-Which areas of North America have produced the most Boone and Crockett trophies so far in the new millennium?

With appearances in nine categories of big game species and subspecies, Alaska is tops and easily guessed. Longtime trophy mainstays such as Colorado for mule deer and Montana for bighorn sheep also remain at their lofty spots. But even the most discerning hunter might be surprised at other states on the list.

Illinois, for example, is out to a big jump on record-class whitetail deer. Utah is the new pistol-hot destination for monster elk. Nevada has emerged as No. 1 for desert sheep and, amazingly, also makes the list for trophy mountain goats.

"Boone and Crockett records have always been a classic indicator of habitat quality and on-the-ground performance of conservation and management programs. The states and provinces on this list are the best of the best right now," said Eldon Buckner, chairman of the Boone and Crockett Club's Records of North American Big Game Committee. "We congratulate these respective wildlife agencies and hold up their work as a model for conservation and game management in the 21st Century."

Here are the top 3 trophy producing areas, by type. The number in parentheses is actual entries into Boone and Crockett records (typical and non-typical combined, where applicable) since 2000.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:42 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.-Flu is on everyone's mind this autumn. So for hunters who start feeling lousy upon arrival in elk camp, the diagnosis may seem obvious. But, like skiers and mountain climbers, elk hunters at high elevations also are prone to altitude sickness with symptoms that look and feel like the flu-headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, coughing, shortness of breath and trouble sleeping.

Ways to prevent the flu are well publicized, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is offering the following tips for avoiding altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness is caused by thin air at high elevations. Your body must work harder to maintain normal oxygen levels in the blood. Breathing and pulse rates increase. Still, the lack of oxygen can knock a hunter down especially if they go too hard too soon.

"Most of us live at a much lower elevation than elk do. That alone puts many hunters at a disadvantage even before they begin their first stalk," said Cameron Hanes, a fitness and bowhunting authority as well as TV show host and columnist for RMEF.

Hanes says most sufferers adapt to high altitude by the fourth day. The following tips can help you make better use of your first three days in elk country.

• When you arrive in high country, avoid physical exertion for the first 24 hours. This can be tough when you've been looking forward to the hunt all year, so if you can't or won't take a full day to adjust, be smart. Don't go full bore right out of the gate.

• Hunt high, sleep low. At elevations above 5,000 feet, try to gain no more than 2,000 feet per day. You can hunt higher as long as you go back down 2,000 feet to sleep.

• Ascend very slowly past 8,000 feet. Acclimatize yourself. Acclimatization helps cells get along on a smaller oxygen budget. By gaining altitude slowly, your body will adjust gradually with few if any symptoms of altitude sickness.

• If traveling by air to a hunt above 8,000 feet, try to incorporate a layover of one to two days at an intermediate altitude.

• Drink water copiously and constantly.

• Avoid alcohol for the first few days. Alcohol dehydrates you and drinking at high altitudes amplifies its affect.

• Consume a high-carbohydrate diet. Lots of granola bars, trail mix, etc.

• The prescription drug acetazolamide (Diamox) can be helpful as a preventive treatment but always consult with your doctor first.

• Fitness at sea level doesn't guarantee an easier time when you're at 10,000 feet, but being in good shape makes it more likely that your lungs can cope with the challenges of the high life.

If these tips don't work, and if your symptoms persist even at lower altitudes, you may indeed have the flu.

Hanes serves RMEF as host of "Elk Chronicles" on Outdoor Channel and as a columnist for "Bugle" magazine. His second book, "Backcountry Bowhunting, A Guide to the Wild Side," is currently in its fifth printing and is available at www.cameronhanes.com .

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.6 million acres-a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:30 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn. -- The National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry, applauded the introduction of legislation, the Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act (HR 3749), to greatly enhance the ability of federal land managers to provide, promote and plan for recreational uses that balance the needs and interests of all outdoor enthusiasts.

The bill, introduced by U.S. Reps. Dan Boren (D-Okla.) and Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), requires that all federal public land planners evaluate the effects that management initiatives have on outdoors activities and provide a clear analysis of how proposed actions would affect these traditional users of federal public lands.

"This legislation is key to ensuring that our hunting and shooting heritage continues to endure, even amidst continued threats from anti-hunting and anti-gun special interest groups, on federal lands," said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane.

The bill specifically directs the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management to utilize the multi-use mandates in their agencies' respective land-management plans to promote sportsmen and sportswomen's access to forest and public lands.

The bill would further provide federal land managers with the authority to designate specific areas for recreational shooting.

"The firearms industry thanks Congressmen Boren and Ryan for their continued support of sportsmen and women in the United States," concluded Keane.

About NSSF
The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen's organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:54 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn. -- With hunting season unfolding like the colors of autumn, the National Shooting Sports Foundation encourages five actions hunters can take during this time of fair chase and harvest.

"We ask hunters to consider these thoughtful actions during this beautiful time of year when we enjoy the companionship of family and friends in the outdoors and the riches that nature provides for us," said Steve Sanetti, president of NSSF. "Each one of these actions reaffirms the value of hunting on a personal level and reminds us of our obligations toward wildlife and our fellow hunters."

Put healthful fare locally acquired on your table

Although it may appear to be a current movement, living an eco-friendly lifestyle is not new to hunters, who have always relied on renewable resources to provide nutritious food for their families -- food locally acquired and unfettered by hormones or processed feed. As NSSF President Steve Sanetti has pointed out in a national column, "Eighty-four percent of us hunt exclusively in our home states. Only 5 percent never hunt locally. Compared with consumers of U.S. supermarket food which routinely travels as much as 2,500 miles from source to table, we are model locavores."

Take a youth hunting

Nearly 300,000 apprentice hunting licenses have been put to use thanks to legislation passed in 29 states that allows a youngster to try hunting with a licensed adult mentor. Youth who are introduced to supervised hunting at an early age tend to stick with it, while children introduced in their mid-teens are often diverted by video games and organized sports. Check your state hunting regulations to see if the opportunity exists to take a youth hunting.

Be a good conservationist

Learn about the critical role hunters have played in protecting wildlife and wild places. Join a conservation organization that helps protect the species of your choice. With interest in wildlife and habitat heightened by Ken Burns' "National Parks: America's Best Idea" series, now is a good time to explain to youngsters how as hunters they are part of a community that helped save the white-tailed deer, wild turkey and Rocky Mountain elk. Teach them how they can carry on the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt and Aldo Leopold. A good place to start is NSSF's booklet, The Hunter and Conservation and the video, Unendangered Species.

Be an ethical sportsman

Practice and teach the rules of fair chase, and report violators of written laws and regulations. Lawbreakers hurt the image of responsible hunters. Unwritten rules also exist among hunters that must be followed, such as agreeing not to take an excessively long shot, using inadequate equipment and preparing properly for the hunt. Those who violate these unwritten rules should be corrected. Learn more from NSSF's brochure, "The Ethical Hunter." Consider reading "Beyond Fair Chase" by Jim Posewitz. Your state fish and wildlife agency (find them at www.huntandshoot.org) or the International Hunter Education Association (www.ihea..org) can assist with hunter education courses.

Practice safe gun handling at home and in the field

Hunting season is always a good time to take stock of how safely your firearms are stored in the home. Proper storage of firearms, with ammunition stored separately, can help prevent firearms accidents, particularly among children. Learn the basics of safe gun handling by reading the NSSF brochure "Firearm Safety Depends on You" or by watching the video of the same title either on DVD or online atwww.nssf.org. Learn about safe storage of firearms in the home at www.projectchildsafe.org.

About NSSF

The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen's organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org .

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:52 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. - West Virginia deer hunters gain more than a freezer filled with an ample amount of venison (deer meat) after each hunting season. Those concerned with healthier choices in their diet have gained a supply of low-fat meat compared to beef.

"Venison is a healthful source of protein and many West Virginia families supplement their diet with nutritious venison harvested in the Mountain State ," noted Curtis Taylor, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). "Venison has fewer calories and nearly five times less fat than the equivalent serving of beef."

After the harvest, hunters can ensure their selected venison cuts will be the best quality and flavor if they take a few simple steps in caring for their game. Meat should not be exposed to excessive heat and moisture and should be cooled as quickly as possible to avoid spoilage.

Hunters are not the only West Virginians who benefit from deer harvested in the state. Over the past 17 years, the DNR has sponsored the Hunters Helping the Hungry Program (HHH). Since its inception in 1992, hunter-donated venison has provided more than 925,000 meals for needy West Virginia families.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:50 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Here is a link to the Barnes Bullets October Newsletter!

Barnes Bullets

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:07 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

NEW ULM, Minn. – For those young people — the vast majority of America’s youth — who have never walked the woods during an early morning hunt, spotted the tracks of a white-tailed deer or heard the calls of a wild turkey, there is a hands-on, educational program known as Explore Bowhunting set to introduce outdoor experiences like these.

The curriculum will reach students early next year thanks in part to $267,000 recently awarded to the Archery Trade Association (ATA) by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies’ Multi-State Grant program.

 “We think natural history and animal behavior can be taught through hunting, which is what Explore Bowhunting is all about,” Jay McAninch, ATA CEO/president said. “We’re pleased that our friends in the state agencies have seen fit to support this joint effort and, because this is a true partnership, we plan to provide two to three times the amount of this grant to see that we accomplish our joint mission.”

As a next step for kids who complete introductory archery programs — any curriculum that primarily focuses on target archery  — Explore Bowhunting was developed so existing educational and recreation channels could adopt the program, make it their own and build on this success.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 03:56 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.-Elk and other wildlife on the parched Arizona landscape now have six new, reliable watering sources thanks to a landmark pipeline project spearheaded by the Arizona Game and Fish Department and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The partly buried 1∏-inch pipe, 12 miles long, delivers useable wastewater from the City of Tusayan to areas south of the Grand Canyon-Arizona's famous Unit 9 hunting area.

As part of this project, seven stand-alone water catchments also were built in the area.

The Elk Foundation expended $348,000 on this project using contributions from donors, proceeds from Arizona hunting permit raffles and grants from RMEF banquets and other fundraisers across the state. The Arizona Game and Fish Department provided $520,000. Other groups supported the project with volunteer labor and in-kind services.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:48 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Captain Jeff Coats and the Ducks, Dogs and Decoys team has put together 3 complete volumes of some of the best waterfowl action in the country and I have spent the last 7 days with these DVDs running on my television as a  complete distraction as I have been trying to get some work done here at the office.  These are some of the best filmed, most beautiful and well done DVD's in the hunting genre that I have come across and I learned a ton.

As a completely novice waterfowl hunter myself, I have been in the market for quality DVD's that can inspire me to get out there on the water and take up some waterfowl hunting on days where I am not chasing big game animals around the country.  A majority of the works that I came across were DVD's that showed some fantastic hunting but I did not feel that I walked away learning anything about the traditions of waterfowl, the decoys, the dogs, the calling or the set ups.  Jeff has made sure that in these DVD's we are all going to learn something about the passion he has for waterfowl as well as the equipment and the animals that go into great waterfowl hunting.

In their newest release Ducks, Dogs and Decoys "Coast to Coast" you get a 3 DVD set of action from the right coast to the left coast, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, from the Atlantic Flyway to the Pacific Flyway, traveling with the D3 TV Pitcrew as they hunt waterfowl all across America. With over 25 hunts combining big geese, little geese, puddle ducks, divers, seaducks and swans. They also visit museums, legendary carvers, call makers and Jeff's own carving shack carving some gunning decoys for the season. With over 7 hours of action packed sequences you really cannot go wrong running out and purchasing this great DVD set as well as their two older versions covering some of the same kinds of great waterfowl action, history, calls, dogs and decoys.

www.ducksdogsanddecoys.com

www.pitbosswaterfowl.com

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:40 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 5, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn.-A letter signed by members of the U.S. House of Representatives' Second Amendment Task Force raising important questions about the National Park Service's intent to ban the use of traditional ammunition in parks that allow hunting has been sent to Department of Interior Secretary Ken Salazar. The letter, which follows a similar message sent to Salazar by U.S. senators last week, was applauded by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry.

A bipartisan working group dedicated to defending the Second Amendment rights of American citizens, the task force wrote that "the rationale for such a ban is not based on sound scientific analysis and it would greatly restrict the ability of sportsmen to engage in hunting and fishing activities in the national parks that permit those activities."

The National Park Service continues to pursue a ban on traditional ammunition that it announced earlier in the year would apply to park personnel involved with culling sick and wounded animals, and indicated it would consider widening the ban to all hunters. The firearms industry, sportsmen's groups and multiple conservation organizations criticized the ban in a press release, calling it "arbitrary, over-reactive and not based on science."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:47 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 5, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn.-With the U.S. Supreme Court slated to hear arguments tomorrow in the United States v. Stevens, No. 08-769, the National Shooting Sports Foundation encourages the court to support the First Amendment rights of all media to show images of hunting and fishing.

The case centers around a 1999 federal statute used to prosecute a Virginia man on animal cruelty-related charges that because it is so broadly written could similarly be used to prosecute anyone who publishes images of hunting or to prosecute retailers for stocking and selling books, DVDs or art depicting hunting scenes.

"The National Shooting Sports Foundation and its over 4,500 member companies oppose animal cruelty, which is illegal in every state, and stress that hunting scenes are not representative of criminal behavior. Hunting is a legitimate, licensed activity, and responsible hunters respect the animals they pursue and utilize," said Steve Sanetti, president of NSSF. "Such images assist novices with basic hunting and field dressing techniques and provide education about wildlife conservation and safe and ethical hunting."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:38 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 5, 2009

WASHINGTON D.C. – Dr. William Moritz from Safari Club International (SCI) testified in support of polar bear conservation and research before the House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife.   At issue is H.R. 1054, Congressman Don Young’s (R-AK) legislation to allow the importation of approximately 42 polar bears that already have been legally hunted in Canada. Before the May 15, 2008 listing of the polar bear as threatened, U.S. citizens could obtain import permits for polar bears hunted from six approved populations -- those which the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has found to have a sound and sustainable harvest program. Relying on both science and sound wildlife management principles, SCI explained that allowing these imports would not affect the polar bear populations, but would generate over $40,000 for polar bear research.
 
Congressman Young’s bill would amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act to specifically allow the import of polar bears that had been hunted from approved populations prior to the listing of the species under the Endangered Species Act. The decision by the FWS banning imports deprived numerous individuals of the full value of their rightful property.  The bears currently sit in cold storage in Canada.  H.R. 1054 would help rectify this unfortunate situation for the 40-plus hunters affected by the import ban.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:53 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, October 5, 2009

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH), a ministry that provides nutritious venison to the hungry through food banks and local feeding programs now has three participating coordinators in Central Ohio. FHFH helps hunters return to their heritage as food-providers by transforming deer - renewable resources- into meals for the hungry.

Hunters in Central Ohio can contact the following coordinators to arrange deer donations:

Champaign County:
Brian Suttles 937-205-4152 cell
feathersnhorns@yahoo.com

Delaware, Morrow, Franklin, & Licking Counties:
Justin Ross 740-817-2643 home
justin2ross@yahoo.com

Fairfield & Licking Counties:

Jeff Fornshell 740-407-8247cell 740-862-0760 home

loanman43105@yahoo.com

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:50 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, October 1, 2009

The Anderson County Middle School, in Lawrenceburg, KY, recently raised nearly $5,000 selling raffle tickets for a chance on a Matthew's Outback Compound Bow and a pair of Leupold Binoculars. Coaches, parents, and students worked on selling the tickets from late June until the community Burgoo Festival in late September where the winners were drawn.

The team's fund raising effort, along with the generosity of the school, has allowed the team to pay the entry fees and rooms at the Disney World Parks and Resort where the NASP World Championship will be held from October 8-11, 2009.

The team and coaches would like to thank all supporters and donators for their efforts in the success of this fantastic journey. Keep your eye on the target and on the Anderson County Middle School Archery Team!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:57 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Last night, New York state released its draft supplemental generic environmental impact statement (DSGEIS) for gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. This 800-plus page document, once finalized, will provide the regulatory framework for how the gas industry must operate when drilling in the Marcellus Shale in New York state.

"To date, New York state's approach been both cautionary and proactive," said Elizabeth Maclin, TU's Vice President for Eastern Conservation. "Unlike other states in the Marcellus Shale region, New York has not jumped the gun on gas drilling and has required a thorough regulatory analysis prior to allowing any gas company to drill in the state. Trout Unlimited and its New York Council commend the state for this," Maclin said.

"Drilling for gas in the Marcellus Shale is one of the most-if not the most-significant issues to impact New York's native and wild trout fisheries in decades as well as local drinking water supplies. It is critical that it be done in a way that protects these resources for future generations of sportsmen," said Ron Urban, TU's New York Council Chair, of Port Ewen, N.Y.

"As with any regulations, careful analysis is required to determine exactly how strong the protections will be for New York's expansive resources," said Maclin. "Trout Unlimited and its 7,500 New York members look forward to carefully reviewing and commenting on the state's draft report."

New York state is providing 60 days for the public to comment on its plan to move forward with drilling in the Marcellus Shale. Trout Unlimited asks Governor David Paterson and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis to extend the comment period to at least 90 days in order to allow the public a thorough review of the document.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:47 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, October 1, 2009

WASHINGTON - At its second annual Capital Conservation Honors, held last night near the group's headquarters in Washington, D.C., the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership recognized the achievements of some of the sportsmen-conservation world's brightest stars and launched a fundraising effort honoring the legacy of former TRCP chairman and co-founder Jim Range. The two-year campaign for the TRCP Jim Range Conservation Fund begins with $150,000 in contributions already in hand and has a fundraising goal of $2 million.

The gala event featured a keynote address by Douglas Brinkley, professor of history at Rice University and best-selling author of The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America. Congressman John D. Dingell of Michigan was awarded the TRCP's Sportsman's Champion Award for his leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives on legislation to protect our nation's waters and wetlands and to provide funding for fish and wildlife adaptation strategies in climate change legislation. Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops and a lifelong conservationist who has donated more than $70 million to conservation and education groups, was presented with the TRCP's Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award. Lead sponsors of the Sept. 30 event included Bass Pro Shops, Beretta, Frontiers Travel and Orvis.

"The TRCP's Capital Conservation Honors recognizes the best of the past, present and future of conservation in America," said George Cooper, TRCP president and CEO. "Reflecting on the lives of giants such as Theodore Roosevelt, John Dingell, Johnny Morris and Jim Range showcases the great achievements that sportsmen have made in the name of conservation - yet also lights a path forward by illustrating how much remains to be done to assure the future of our shared natural resources and our great sporting traditions."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:20 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Pheasants Forever and Northland Ford are teaming up to conserve wildlife habitat. The Northland Ford Dealer group, made up of 245 Ford Dealers in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin, has donated a 2010 Ford F-150 XLT to be raffled off by Pheasants Forever. Tickets for the raffle are available through local Pheasants Forever chapters in the Northland Ford region, and all proceeds raised will be kept by each chapter for use in their local wildlife habitat efforts.

Raffle tickets for the 2010 Ford F-150 XLT and other prizes – including firearms - will be sold at Pheasants Forever chapter events in the Northland Ford region, including 2009-2010 Pheasants Forever banquets. To find the chapter and event nearest you, visit www.PheasantsForever.org or call toll free at 1-877-773-2070. The grand prize drawing for the truck will occur in June of 2010.

"The Northland Ford dealers are pleased to again be a partner with Pheasants Forever and help preserve and enhance wildlife habitat," said Steve Johnson, Chairman of the Northland Ford Dealers Advertising Board of Directors, "It's an outstanding grassroots group that Ford and its dealers are proud to support."

"Pheasants Forever operates under a unique organizational model, and it's because of great partnerships like Northland Ford that we are able to be successful at improving local habitat," said Joe Duggan, PF's Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Relations, "In these times, people want to see that their donations are put to the best possible use. This raffle with Northland Ford works because it stands behind Pheasants Forever's mission and local fundraising model. This Northland Ford raffle will raise thousands of dollars for local habitat efforts – efforts that will be seen by local hunters and outdoor enthusiasts for years to come."

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are non-profit conservation organizations dedicated to the protection and enhancement of pheasant, quail, and other wildlife populations in North America through habitat improvement, land management, public awareness, and education. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever have more than 125,000 members in 750 local chapters across the continent.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:11 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST