Savory Sunday's - #16

Mom's Roast Turkey:



Recipe from: Simply Recipes

Preparation time: About 5 hours.

Ingredients

• 1 turkey, approx. 15 lbs.*
• Juice of a lemon
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or melted butter
• 1/2 yellow onion, peeled and quartered
• Tops and bottoms of a bunch of celery
• 2 carrots
• Parsley
• Sprigs of fresh rosemary, thyme

* Need help figuring out how big a turkey to get? Butterball has a turkey calculator that helps you figure out just how many pounds you need. In general, plan for:

12-15 lb turkey for 10-12 people
15-18 lb turkey for 14-16 people
18-22 lb turkey for 20-22 people

Method

1 To start, if the turkey has been refrigerated, bring it to room temperature before cooking. Keep it in its plastic wrapping until you are ready to cook it. While in the refrigerator, and or while you are bringing it to room temp, have the bird resting in a pan, so that if the plastic covering leaks for any reason, you are confining the juices to the pan. If you get a frozen turkey, you will need to defrost it in the refrigerator for several days first. Allow approximately 5 hours of defrosting for every pound. So, if you have a 15 pound turkey, it will take about 75 hours to defrost it in the refrigerator, or around 3 days.

Handle a raw turkey with the same amount of caution as when you handle raw chicken - use a separate cutting board and utensils to avoid contaminating other foods. Wash you hands with soap before touching anything else in the kitchen. Use paper towels to clean up.

Remove the neck and giblets (heart, gizzard, liver). Use the heart and gizzard for making stock for the stuffing. The neck can be cooked along side the turkey or saved for turkey soup.

Note that if your turkey comes with a plastic piece holding the legs together, check the instructions on the turkey's package. Most likely you do not need to remove those plastic ties for cooking (unless you plan to cook your turkey at a very high temperature). If you remove the plastic ties, you will need to use kitchen string to tie the legs together.

2 Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

3 Wash out the turkey with water. Pull out any remaining feather stubs in the turkey skin. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Lather the inside of the cavity with the juice of half a lemon. Take a small handful of salt and rub all over the inside of the turkey.

4 In this method of cooking a turkey, we don't make the stuffing in the turkey because doing so adds too much to the cooking time. For flavor, put in inside the turkey a half a yellow onion, peeled and quartered, a bunch of parsley, a couple of carrots, and some tops and bottoms of celery. You may need to cap the body cavity with some aluminum foil so that the stuffing doesn't easily fall out. Close up the turkey cavity with either string (not nylon string!) or metal skewers. Make sure that the turkey's legs are tied together, held close to the body, and tie a string around the turkey body to hold the wings in close.

The neck cavity can be stuffed with parsley and tied closed with thin skewers and string.

5 Rub either melted butter or olive oil all over the outside of the turkey. Sprinkle salt generously all over the outside of the turkey (or have had it soaking in salt-water brine before starting this process). Sprinkle pepper over the turkey.

6 Place turkey BREAST DOWN on the bottom of a rack over a sturdy roasting pan big enough to catch all the drippings. This is the main difference between the way mom makes turkey and everyone else. Cooking the turkey breast down means the skin over the breast will not get so brown. However, all of the juices from the cooking turkey will fall down into the breast while cooking. And the resulting bird will have the most succulent turkey breast imaginable.

Add several sprigs of fresh (if possible) thyme and rosemary to the outside of the turkey.

7 Chop up the turkey giblets (gizzard, heart). Put into a small saucepan, cover with water, add salt. Bring to simmer for an hour or so to help make stock for the stuffing (see stuffing recipe).

8 Put the turkey in the oven. Check the cooking directions on the turkey packaging. Gourmet turkeys often don't take as long to cook. With the turkeys mom gets, she recommends cooking time of about 15 minutes for every pound. For the 15 lb turkey, start the cooking at 400 F for the first 1/2 hour. Then reduce the heat to 350 F for the next 2 hours. Then reduce the heat further to 225 F for the next hour to hour and a half.

If you want the breast to be browned as well, you can turn over the bird for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, at an oven temp of 300°F. (Oven must be at least 250°F for browning to occur.) Note that if you do this, you will have a higher risk of overcooking the turkey breast. We never worry about browning the breast.

Start taking temperature readings with a meat thermometer, inserted deep into the thickest part of the turkey breast and thigh, a half hour before the turkey should be done. The dark meat in the thigh should be about 175°F. The white meat in the breast should be 160°F to 165°F. If you don't have a meat thermometer, spear the breast with a knife. The turkey juices should be clear, not pink.

9 Once you remove the turkey from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Turn the turkey breast side up to carve it.

Turkey Season comes to an End

Well it finally has come to an end. Spring Turkey season here in Connecticut is officially over.

I did manage to get out a few times but unfortunately was not able to fill a tag. It is all good though because I was at least able to get out. I had a few gobblers talking to me which I thought was cool.

I did manage to get three deer on video which was very awesome and plan to share just as soon as I have time to get it on the computer.

I tend to look at turkey hunting the same as I do deer hunting or even fishing and that is just being out there and seeing and/or hearing them is worth it and if I fill a tag than I just consider that a bonus.

I will take what I have learned this season and apply it to next season when it comes around. So for now what I will do between regular work and side jobs and a bit of trout fishing is prepare for the best season of all and you know what that is "Deer Season".

Trout Fishing Bait - What works for Me

I thought I would briefly mention what I prefer to use when I go trout fishing. There isn't to many times that I go home empty handed, at least so far.

When I started it was always night crawlers, I would go out down by the garden at night when I lived on the farm. The grass was lush and very green next to all the home grown veggies. I would sneak around with a flashlight and scoop them up as quickly as I could before they disappeared in the ground. It was a lot of fun but, I used to get bitten up something fierce by the skeeters.

The next day I would head out and find a nice slow rolling stream and put half a night crawler on the hook. Cast it out and let the current take it down a ways. The other place I would like to go when I was growing up was Shenipsic Lake. That lake is half in the town of Ellington and the other half is in the town of Tolland. If you found the right spot you could sitting on the bank and cast out for some nice rainbows.

Then some how I came across The Rooster Tail Spinner. I picked up a few different colors and started to experiment. I have never had that much luck in big lakes with them but small ponds and definately streams/rivers are a for sure place to use them.



These three spinners have become my favorites. The White, The Black, The Rainbow they all have proven very successful for me in a steady soft rolling stream. Preferably in the morning with a bit of sunshine. They are not that expensive, the range anywhere from $3.00 - $5.00 depending on where you shop. I feel it is a fair price for something that works although let me give a word of caution.

If there are low lying branches, high enough that you can't reach but low enough that the spinner can touch they will grab on tight and not let go. At that point it is safer to cut the line and put another spinner on than try and grab it and get all wet in the process, not that I am talking from experience mind you.

I do need to mention The Meal Worm. That I am told works very well on trout.

I have used them a couple of times in the past with no luck what so ever. Granted I have only tried them a couple times but, I'm like a old dog that you can't teach new tricks to. I will stay with the nightcrawkers and rooster tail spinners.

Can you help Someone in Need?

I read this post on a blog I follow by Larry Ralph called "Hunting Reviews". It seems one of his friends/hunting buddy has a son Malakai that is very sick. Larry has been posting updates on the little boys progress which is quite scary to say the least.

Of course as you can imagine the hospital bills are starting to roll in and the family financially is not doing all that well. Larry had asked if we could help spread the word and/or at least say a prier or two.

If you are so inclined to donate whatever amount you can spare to help with the hospital bills I am sure they would greatly appreciate. You can see and read about the progress of the Cruse kids by clicking on the link.

Coyotes are detrimental to whitetail deer population

This article I found was interesting. I personally don't see a lot of coyotes where I am but I will say that I have seen them and heard them. I wanted to see what you all thought about this so after reading please leave a comment on your thoughts.

By Steve Rogers — Into the Outdoors from The Morris Daily Herald.com

As I was perusing the pages of the latest issue of Field and Stream magazine, one article caught my attention. It was entitled “The Other Deer Hunters.” In a nutshell it provided the reader with new research stating how truly detrimental coyotes are to a whitetail population. Being an avid whitetail hunter, I was naturally intrigued.

Most folks realize the coyotes are opportunistic predators that surely kill whitetail deer. I, like many thousands of others assumed that the total percentage of deer that coyotes eliminated from the herd was small and most likely insignificant.

The research that is documented in that article paints a much different picture though. It goes so far as to say that nearly 80% of whitetail fawn deaths are due to coyote predation. That is truly a staggering number when put into perspective. The researchers were able to tag 60 newborn fawns. Of those 60, 44 died within 2 months of birth — 35 of those deaths are believed to have been the direct result of coyotes.

The article goes on to state that with coyote populations on the rise in nearly every part of the U.S., this could present a major management problem for whitetail enthusiasts. A couple of possible management strategies include hunting these predators, not removing as many does from the herd and provide more suitable birthing habitat on your property.

Read complete article:

A Look at what Could Be - get's Bigger

I have a updated picture I wanted to share of those birds that Tyler has been keeping tabs on. Sorry to say there is only 3 chicks and not 4, one didn't make it through the egg.

This has been very good to watch and I think Tyler has gotten something out of it along the way.

Nature at it's finest I think. While I was taking this picture mom was in the driveway squaking at me and once I quickly walked away she stood on the fence just outside of where the nest was and wouldn't leave for the longest time.

Legendary Whitetail - You be the Judge!

This deer has got my vote................



Deergear.com presents a Legendary Whitetails DVD clip. In this clip you get to hear the story behind the Larry Raveling Buck. It scores 282 NON TYPICAL. This Legendary Whitetail is a Monster Buck.

Tuesday's Tip's & Technique's - #39

I was doing a little research on turkey hunting and realized that I actually had gobblers coming to me quite a few times but could never figure out why they never committed and came all the way in. I figured that maybe I was calling to much and maybe that is part of it but this tip explains another reason that might has happened.

When Turkey's go Silent:

What to do when a wild turkey gobbler suddenly goes silent? He's been gobbling like crazy, and then shuts down. Calling expert Chris Parrish has the solution.

This pro staffer from Knight & Hale game keeps calling, very quietly, to convince the gobbler that the hen is still there. Most importantly, he stays in place instead of moving around.

He says, "I guarantee you that one of two things has happened. He either has hens or a predator of some sort has come in there and spooked him. Or, even worse, you've let your buddy know where you're hunting and he came in there and spooked him."

He continues, "Just give it a little time to start with. Sometimes, the hen will come in and he'll breed her and then he'll start back gobbling again. Give it a little time and relax a little bit. Don't go push him."

"Don't move too quick, that's the biggest mistake we all are prone to make. We end up spooking the bird that's coming towards us."

Tip is from My Outdoor TV.com

The Winner has been Picked

I would like to say Congratulation to the winner of Whitetail Woods first ever Giveaway. I also want to say thanks for everyone who participated, it was very much appreciated.

Tipper from "The Blind Pick and the Acorn" blog has won the Drury Outdoors 20th. Anniversary Platinum Edition DVD set that was so graciously donated by Matt Drury of "Drury Outdoors". Please do enjoy your prizes and you can claim them by sending me your full name and mailing address to whitetail.woods@yahoo.com and I will send to you.

What does Memorial Day mean to you

What is the true definition of Memorial Day? I looked it up on Wikipedia and this is what I found. Other than the fact that we get a day off from work or school I really don't think a lot of people really knows what it means.

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (on May 25 in 2009). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the civil war), it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action.

I searched and searched to find a picture that describes how I felt about Memorial Day and I think this says it for me.

“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.”

-- General George Patton--

Savory Sunday's - #15

Bake Mushrooms & Stuffed Trout

Ingredients

• 3 tbsps. butter
• 3 tbsps, olive oil
• 6 cups sliced mushrooms
• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion
• 1 large celery stalk, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp. minced fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp. minced fresh thyme
• 4 whole trout (about 12 ounces each), cleaned, boned
• 2 tbsps. fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Melt 3 tablespoons butter with oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, celery, parsley and thyme; cook until mushrooms brown and all liquid evaporates, stirring frequently, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Season filling to taste with salt and pepper, set aside to cool.

Preheat oven to 350¡F. Butter large baking sheet. Drizzle lemon juice inside fish, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Fill cavity with mushroom mixture, dividing equally. Place stuffed fish on prepared sheet. Brush outside of fish with melted butter.

Bake until cooked through, about 30 minutes. Transfer to platter, garnish with lemon wedges.

This recipe came from: www.fishingworks.com.

CT. DEP gives advice about Wild Animals in the Spring

I thought this would be of interest and a friendly reminder about our local wildlife during the spring season.

DEP Gives Advice On Young
Wild Animals In Spring

If You Care, Leave It There

Spring and summer are a busy time, not only for people, but for animals, too. Many animals are setting up territories, building nests, or finding den sites to give birth and raise their young. Now that people are more active and spending more time outdoors, the chances are greater that someone may come across a young bird or mammal that may appear to be orphaned or injured.

In situations where young animals are found, it is important to realize that the animal may not need your help and the adult is probably nearby watching and will not return until the ‘intruder’ leaves. Many animals leave their young alone for long periods of time.

DEER

This is especially true with female deer (does) and their fawns. Does only feed their fawns three or four times a day for about 15 minutes each time. A young fawn found alone is probably not abandoned. For the first several days after birth, fawns instinctively freeze and will lie motionless when approached. "It is best not to touch the fawn, but rather leave it alone for at least 24 hours to determine whether the adult is still returning for feedings," suggests Howard Kilpatrick, a wildlife biologist with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

BIRDS

Many people find young birds hopping around the yard in June and July. Most of these birds are old enough to leave the nest, but are still not efficient fliers. If you find a fully feathered, young bird that is unable to fly, it is best to leave it where it was found. The adults are probably still coming around to feed the young bird, which should be capable of flying within a few days. If you find nestlings that appear not to have feathers, look for a nest. If a nest is in a nearby tree, try to place the nestlings back into the nest. If the nest has fallen on the ground, make a new nest with a wicker basket and some loose grasses and hang the basket with the nestlings in it in a nearby tree or shrub. The adults will not be scared away by your smell if you touched the young bird because most birds have a poorly developed sense of smell. The adults usually will continue to feed their chirping nestlings if they can find them.

INJURED ANIMALS

If you do find an animal that is definitely injured or orphaned, remember to:

• Avoid direct contact;
• Keep the animal away from pets and children;
• Use heavy gloves to transfer the animal to a cardboard box or escape-proof container;
• Try to keep the animal in a warm, quiet place;
• Contact an authorized wildlife rehabilitator.

WILD ANIMALS AS PETS

It is illegal to keep wild animals as pets. Raising wildlife for successful return to the wild requires considerable knowledge of appropriate feeding formulas, countless hours of care, and appropriate outdoor caging, in addition to the required state and federal permits. Improper care results in underweight and undernourished animals or animals that are not releasable because they have become too accustomed to being around people.

"Keep in mind that although it may seem natural to want to provide young, distressed mammals with assistance, caring for them may actually do more harm than good," said Laurie Fortin, a wildlife biologist for the DEP Wildlife Division. Direct contact may result in exposure to rabies or other diseases carried by wildlife. Be aware that even a young animal can carry and transfer the rabies virus in its saliva. Handling a potential rabies carrier, such as a baby raccoon, without proper precautions may require that the animal be euthanized for rabies testing.

There are approximately 230 volunteer wildlife rehabilitators with the appropriate skills, training, and state authorization to temporarily care for sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife. To obtain the names of wildlife rehabilitators in your area, contact your local nature center; the DEP Wildlife Division, at (860) 424-3011 (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM); the DEP Emergency Dispatch Center, at (860) 424-3333 (after hours or on weekends); or check the DEP’s website at www.ct.gov/dep. Individuals interested in learning more about becoming a wildlife rehabilitator should contact Laurie Fortin of the Wildlife Division, at (860) 424-3963 or laurie.fortin@ct.gov.

Answer to the Question, Why do I Deer hunt?

I was reading a post recently from Arthur at "Simply Outdoors" titled "Hunting: The Emotional Experience, Why I put myself through it". What Arthur had to say I think describes a lot about me so I felt it would make a good post to give you a view so to speak of what is in my head on this subject.

I never grew up with hunting around me. The closest my dad ever came to hunting was shooting rabbits in the garden from the back window of our kitchen. As the years went along I always had a way with animals and loved nature very much. That is probably why I shocked a few people when I told them I was going to start hunting deer. I sure proved them wrong because it is the only thing in life like a hobby that I ever stuck with.

Back in 1990 for no reason that I can remember I came home from work and told Heidi that I wanted to try bowhunting for deer. She looked at me like I was out of my mind and asked why. I told her I didn't know why but I wanted to try it. So, I went to K-Mart at the time and put a bow on lay-a-way. I was on my way and after paying it off I picked it up and stopped at this archery place on the way home.

I talked to the guy and told him what I was doing and he made me up a half dozen arrows and gave me a couple of free lessons. I practiced all that summer and come September of 1990 I was ready to head out. Of course I went through the bowhunting safety course and got the necessary license and permits.

That first year and actually that first day I was sitting in this treestand I had bought and caught two deer run by me at what seemed like mach speed and what really amazed me was there was NO SOUND at all. It was like they were running on air. I thought that was the most beautifulest thing I had ever witnessed and from that point on I was hooked. That was 19 seasons ago.

For me being out in the outdoors deer hunting is where I feel the most at peace. I can go hunting and not see one deer but when I go home I feel relaxed and cleared of the days thoughts and experiences. Just sitting there watching the squirrels and chip,unks gather nuts or geese that fly overhead or a lone owl that lands in the tree next to me or watching a hawk swoop down and pickup a mouse for dinner or the nip of the autumn air making my nose run and not to mention watching a red fox or a fischer run by only to stop quick to glance up at me is so gratifying that I sometimes can't explain.

I have to completey agree witth Arthur when he said it is easier to convey what I want to say in writing or on my blog, if I try to talk to people I get tough tied and end up sounding like a idiot.

The adrenalin that I and others go through when we harvest a deer is sometimes beyond words. It is something that most would have to experience for themselves to completely understand why we brave the elements and why we sit for hours on end and why I would go out hunting in 30 degree weather when I have Bronchial Pneumonia and the doctor is telling me to go into the hospital. I used to do that but now that I am older and wiser I stay home when I'm sick but I do drive my wife Heidi nuts because I can't go. Even getting bit by ticks one to many times and ending up with "Degenerative Bone Loss and Tissue Damage" as well as the Arthritis that goes with it.

Even with age and health issues I expect to be deer hunting up to the point I can't lift a gun anymore. I'm about as passionate and obsessed as I think one man can be. Like I tell everyone, just being out there and seeing deer is worth it to me and if I fill a tag than I just consider that a bonus.

No Turkey but plenty of Deer

Tuesday morning I went out turkey hunting. It was a beautiful morning with a unseasonably nip in the air. Immediately I starting to hear 2 to 3 tom's gobbling so I starting to try and get them to come to the calling.

I was able to get a couple to answer but again they would not come in. I had even started out closer to where they usually are but, still no luck. I know they are there and I know they do answer from time to time. I'm not sure if I am doing something wrong being that it is only my second season turkey hunting or maybe it's just a bunch of tough turkey's that are not going to make it easy.

Anyway I decided to try and relocate closer to the last gobble I heard. I started to head down the ridge when I spotted a couple of deer. I have to say this is partly why I started turkey hunting because I can keep tabs on the deer in the area. This is where it get's real cool.

I laid my shotgun down and took my backpack off and took the cam corder out and started stalking. Keep in mind that I have always hated still/stalk hunting but, I wanted to try and get closer so I could get them on film. I stalked about 80 yards and suddenly I realized they were heading toward me so I crouched behind a tree. The wind was in my face so I prepared to turn the camera on.

I started to film and before I knew it the first deer was about 20 feet from me before they started to catch my scent. The whole time I was telling myself (I have always wanted to get deer on film and it's finally happening, holy !@#$ ). As I was filming these deer I also realized that there was 3 and not 2. After a while I started to get a low battery signal than poof it shut down. Fortunately I got quite a bit on film.

As soon as I can figure out how to get it on the computer I will share with you all. It really was an awesome experience to have deer come that close to me when I wasn't even hunting them.

New look for Leupold's Rogue Binocular Line

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Patrick Mundy Leupold & Stevens, Inc. Ph: 503-526-1467 pmundy@leupold.com

BEAVERTON, OR- Knowing that many hunters prefer the look of a traditional binocular, Leupold introduces its newest line of binoculars, the Rogue Series. The binoculars have the traditional look of a Porro prism design with modern features for enhanced optical performance.

Rogue binoculars feature fully multi-coated lenses, giving users a vivid, crisp image. The Porro prism design delivers a rich, three-dimensional image that is stereoscopically balanced. And with a locking mechanism conveniently located on the center focus dial, users can be sure the image will stay in focus.

"The Rogue's traditional design allows for a well-balanced, comfortable grip," said Mike Slack, Leupold's marketing communications manager. "Hunters will love that they can use the Rogue for extended periods of time without feeling like they spent the day at the gym."

Rogue is available in 8x42mm and 10x50mm models with either black or Mossy Oak® Break-Up® armor coatings. Waterproof and nitrogen filled, the binoculars can withstand the harshest weather conditions. Every Rogue binocular is protected by Leupold's Green Ring™ Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Leupold & Stevens, Inc., the most prominent American owned and operated optics company, employs more than 650 people in its state-of-the-art Beaverton, Ore., facility where rugged, dependable, high-performance Golden Ring® sports optics are designed, machined and assembled. Leupold is a fifth-generation, family-owned company whose products are sold worldwide to hunters, wildlife observers, competitive shooters, law enforcement officers and special operations military personnel. The product line includes rifle, handgun and spotting scopes, binoculars, rangefinders, flashlights, mounting systems, and optical tools and accessories. For more information on Leupold products, visit www.leupold.com.

Leupold produces official licensed products of Mossy Oak/ Haas Outdoors Inc. Haas Outdoors Inc. is headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, Mossy Oak Interactive, LLC, Nativ Nurseries and Mossy Oak Properties.

###

IT'S NOT A PASSION. IT'S AN OBSESSION

Tuesday's Tip's & Technique's - #38

What goes in must come out:

photo by: Virginia State-Wide Litter Awareness Campaign

This is more like a tip than a technique I think but, in either case is a very important thing to remember and teach to others.

To many time I go out in the woods for hikes,scouting etc. and I find garbage that is left behind from other people whether they are hunters or just the general public. This really get's me humming if you know what I mean.

Let's face it we all have at some point littered, I won't lie I have done it myself in the past. The thing is I realized what I was doing was wrong and stopped. just because the woods are not a home to us they are still homes to the wildlife that live in them.

What goes in we you or I must come out with you or I. We were taught very early in our lives to clean up after ourselves and just because we are older and supposedly wiser does not mean we have to stop.

Giveaway - Drury Outdoors 20th. Anniversary Platinum series Dvd's

I have wanted to do something like this for quite some time. I have entered a few before, it's fun and you get to meet others who also try their luck. Jody over at The Hunters Wife blog helped me with a couple questions I had about doing it so I just wanted to say Thank You.

I am sure some of you know that I speak highly of "Drury Outdoors" and it is for a few reason but the main reason is they produce the best dang video's on the market, hands down in my opinion.

Awhile back on my old blog and recently on my new and better blog I had posted a interview I did with Terry Drury and let me say he was as pleasant and down to earth over the phone as he is in the video's.

I also recently posted about their 20th. Anniversary Platinum Series Dvd's that they are putting out. That I am happy to say is the prize I am able to giveaway. I spoke to Matt Drury via email about my request and he stated that he would be happy to donate this very new and very hot dvd series for Whitetail Woods first ever Giveaway. You can't imagine how excited I was to get that email reply from him.

To take part in this Giveaway all you need to be is a registered user for Whitetail Woods which is nothing more than being able to leave comments. That is where answer comes in. I would like you all who want to sign up for this giveaway to answer a simple question and leave it in the comment section of this post.

The Giveaway will be open to participants for 1 week starting on Monday May 18, 2009 and ending on Sunday May 24, 2009 @ midnight. I will be using Random.org to calculate the winner so it will be fair and I will post the said winner on Monday May 25th which is Memorial day.

The Question:

What is your most favorite thing to do in the outdoors?

( deer hunting, fishing, hiking, turkey hunting, canoeing, photography, bird watching, etc. )

Please post your answer in the comment section of this post and Good Luck.

Baiting For Springtime Trout

This is springtime and it is fishing season so I thought I would pass along some helpful tips to catch what is my favorite Trout.

Offering tasty baits, whether manmade or natural, is the way to lure hungry trout released from the hatchery.

By Gary Diamond - GameandFishmag.com

Fly-fishing and trout go together like hotdogs and baseball, yet during the early season, conditions may not be favorable for any form of artificial offering. Granted, it's a lot of fun watching a wily trout rise beneath a dry fly, and the anticipation of awaiting the strike is almost beyond description. Conversely, it is equally frustrating to watch a trophy trout cruise within range of a perfectly presented nymph then completely ignore your offering.

There's one thing, however, that's rarely ignored: bait. Most trout, especially those fresh from the hatchery, rarely forego the opportunity to dine on an easy meal.

SALMON EGGS

Salmon eggs are a highly productive trout bait, especially on opening day. They're the right size and shape, and in many instances, they are saturated with flavored oils for added enticement. Cheese-flavored eggs seem to be the most popular.

Salmon eggs come in a variety of colors. While red and yellow seem to top the list with fishermen, many anglers have switched to the new fluorescent colors, claiming that they're more productive during the season's first few days. And, for some unexplained reason, trout tend to be more attracted to various shades of red over many of the brighter colors.

The popularity of salmon eggs has always been quite high among early-season trout anglers, so high that hook manufacturers went to the trouble to design hooks specifically for use with salmon eggs. They are available in various sizes ranging from No. 8 to No. 14. These hooks have extremely short shanks and come in both turned-up and turned-down eye styles. When properly rigged, the hook can easily be concealed entirely within a single salmon egg. Consequently, the only thing the rainbow, brookie or brown actually sees, even in clear water, is the egg itself.

CHEESE

What do you do when your local tackle shop is sold out of salmon eggs? Make a quick stop at the corner convenience store. Most are open 24 hours a day, and they all sell cheese.

Most soft cheese products make great trout baits, particularly when you're targeting trout that are fresh from the hatchery. Cheese oils rapidly disperse with the currents, often luring hungry trout from incredible distances. Additionally, soft cheese can readily be formed around a salmon egg hook and molded into pellet-shaped morsels. When all other forms of bait fail, a small glob of cheese may save the day.

MARSHMALLOWS

The first person to use marshmallows for bait was either very creative or totally frustrated. Whatever the case may have been, it worked. Yes, those tiny cocktail marshmallows have saved the day for many trout anglers, especially during the season's first few days. While marshmallows don't resemble any form of trout food, hatchery or natural, they do emit sufficient odor to attract various species of fish. In fact, some anglers complain that they are too effective.

Marshmallows can be cut or torn into smaller pieces, then easily formed to cover a salmon egg hook. However, because they have a relatively high air content, marshmallows have the tendency to float. Therefore, a small piece of split shot, preferably BB size must be added to the line about 12 to 18 inches above the hook. This will place the bait close to the bottom. Be sure not to add more weight than necessary to hold bottom, while still allowing the bait to drift naturally. Add too much weight and you'll spend most of your time trying to dislodge the split shot from snags.

CORN

While fresh corn, yellow or white, doesn't seem to work well at all, canned, whole-kernel, yellow corn makes a great trout bait. Some believe this is because fine-ground grains are one of the main components in fish pellets, one of which may be corn. The list of ingredients on the side of the fish pellet can does not specify which types of grains are used, but corn seems to top the list of most commercially prepared fish and animal foods. If this is indeed the case, there's a good argument for the use of corn for trout bait, particularly during the early days of the season.

Again, the bait should completely cover the hook. Depending on the hook's size, this may require two or possibly three kernels. Fortunately, corn has a slight negative buoyancy, therefore, only one or two split shot may be required to maintain the proper depth. If the stream or river currents are somewhat fast, more weight may be required to maintain the correct depth.

Read complete story:

Savory Sunday's - #14

All American Turkey Stuffing

All-American Turkey Stuffing ingredients list:

3 cups of dried bread cubes.
4 oz of crumbled sausage, cooked.
¾ cup of diced red apple.
½ cup of chopped onion.
½ cup of chopped walnuts.
½ teaspoon of rubbed sage.
1 teaspoon of rosemary leaves, crushed.
¾ cup of water.
1/3 cups of butter or margarine.

Instructions for All-American Turkey Stuffing:

Combine the bread, sausage, diced red apple, chopped onion, chopped walnuts and seasonings.

Heat the water and butter or margarine until the butter melts.

Toss with bread.

Spoon into a 2 quart casserole dish.

Cover and bake alongside turkey during the last 45 minutes of roasting time.

Serve with sliced turkey.

A look at what Could Be - Continued:

I wanted to share the newest pictures of our nest with the Robin egg's in it. Ever since Tyler had found the nest he has been keeping close tabs on it's progress.





It is pretty cool to watch mom or dad fly back and forth at feeding time. We are trying to be carful not to get to close when the parents are near by.

Guest Post - Tanning your Deer Hide

Thanks to my friend Albert over at "Rasch Outdoor Chronicles" I have the pleasure of posting another guest post, I hope you enjoy.

Ok folks,

Image Credit: Joezaremba
Here is another worthwhile project for the outdoorsman. There are a ton of links out there for brain tanning hides. All it takes is some brains. Obviously, you have to save the deer brains for this operation not your own. I mean you have to have some brains to follow the directions... But the process itself is reasonably easy, but there is a bit of work involved. The nice thing is that there are no harsh chemicals used, no poisons, and it is about as "Green" as you can get!

A good resource is Brain Tan. If my memory is correct, it started as a "this is how you do it" site and evolved into a supplier of gear and equipment for do-it-yourself tanning. Regardless they have many tutorials on skinning, preparing, and tanning hides. Their tutorial page is here at their Articles and Tutorials Articles and Tutorials page.

To begin with you need to treat the hide with care. Skinning for pelts requires a slightly more refined method, and a bit of care in the process. Jim Miller has an excellent set of instructions at BrainTan called Tan Your Pelts with Nature’s Tools. He covers everything from skinning to smoking the hide.

(I want to caveat his instruction by saying that the use of raccoon brains can be dangerous. If you have taken the animal yourself, are fairly certain that it is not rabid, and are going to take reasonable precautions like wearing gloves, then go ahead. This warning only applies to animals that commonly carry rabies.)

As I mentioned, the process requires a bit of work, but you can practically stop at any point and come back to it later.

I also found this PDF from the New Mexico State University Tanning Deer Hides
and Small Fur Skins. It covers several methods including the chemical ones.

Native Tech also offers an alternative method of brain tanning. The link Updated Version of Brain Tanning will take you to that version. It is basically the same as Jim's but it throws a couple of twists into it; well worth the read.

Now that you have read a few different versions, remember that when I did it 35 years ago (Holy Smokes...) I used a kitchen knife that looked like an over long buffalo skinner, an old porous brick, a two by four that I rounded for a flashing beam, a pickle bucket, and my mother's blender, (She still has no clue I used it!) And I didn't smoke it either. With those simple tools I made a hair on hide throw that she kept for at least 20 years.

I want to thank Rick once again for allowing me to do a little guest post on Whitetail Woods. I certainly enjoyed the opportunity and look forward to doing it again!

Best Regards and Happy Hunting!
Albert A Rasch
The Hunt Continues...

Deer Hides with the Hair on.

Photo from: Spirit Connections.com

I have for the longest time wanted to get a deer hide tanned with the fur on and some day I will, I think it would make a beautiful wall hanging.

The funny thing is is that last night I called home from work at suppertime and talked to Tyler like I always do to find out how his day at school was and we for some reason got on the subject of deer hides.

Is that spooky or what. He out of the blue with no for thought that I know of asked me if the next time I harvest a deer if he could have the pelt as a deer rug for his room.

I never did figure out where this all came from but I thought it was kinda nice and liked the idea that he felt the same about this as I did. I hadn't even said anything about it either.

I have looked into having a hide tanned with the fur on and it isn't as expensive as you might think. It can range any where from $90 to $120 depending on the size and if you want the tail on or not.

I do plan to have one done that is for sure and now it seems I will have to have two done. A wall hanger for me and rug for Tyler.

School Field Trip to a Science & Nature Museum

Tuesday Heidi and Tyler went on what was a very awesome field trip, I'm only sorry I didn't go. The place they went to was "The Ecotarium" in Worcester Massachusetts. It's a museum of science and nature and a great place to learn all sorts of things and be able to do it hands on.

The EcoTarium is a unique indoor-outdoor museum in Worcester, MA. Set in an urban oasis, the EcoTarium offers a chance to walk through the treetops, take a thrilling multimedia journey through the galaxy at a digital planetarium, meet wildlife, stroll nature trails, ride a narrow-gauge railroad, and get hands-on with family-friendly exhibits.

I know Tyler had a awesome time and Heidi took some real nice pictures. Here are two I am quite fond of.

This male Eagle along with it's life mate were sorry to say injured after being shot. They will no longer be able to survive on their own in the wild but, fortunately they are thriving here at the Ecotarium.

You can't see it in this picture but he is standing guard over the nest.






Here is the female getting ready to sit back on the nest which happens to have a few eggs in it.

Heidi explained to me that what she was doing was turning the eggs and then sitting back down on them. I thought that would have been cool to see.

I plan on making this a day trip for the summer. They had also Red-Tailed Hawks, foxes, porcupines, owls, bears and even turtles and huge frogs.


Here is Tyler enjoying a relaxing time after lunch while waiting for others to finish.

Giveaway - Coming Soon!

I think it is safe to mention that Whitetail Woods will be having it's first ever Giveaway soon. I have wanted to do this for quite some time and it looks like it will finally happen.

I don't want to say to much but just a teaser if you will. It has to do with two brothers who in my own opinion produce the very best hunting shows on the market today.


So if you would like to take a chance at no cost to you then check back soon for details. I hope this has sparked some interest and please be sure to spread the word. Being it's my first giveaway I hope to have an awesome turnout of contestants.

First Turkey Hunt of the Season

Yesterday I finally made it out to do some spring turkey hunting. The weather has been so terrible last week that I sure wasn't going out in it. Keep in mind that I only got a couple hours of restless sleep so I only stayed out half as long as I usually do.

I got to my favorite piece of state land and it appeared that I was the only one, at least at this end of it. I grabbed my gear and headed out. First thing I did before I sat down is took another quick look around me with the headlamp light I had and to my surprise I caught a couple of deer trying to sneak around and behind me. That was very cool but, I didn't want to spook them so I turned my light off and listened to them casually meander off.

I think it was around 5 AM when the songbirds started to sing and off in the distance I heard a couple faint gobbles, I'm guessing they were still on the roost. I starting to call them and before you know it I had them answering. At one point it sounded like 3 seperate gobbler's that were answering back. For a good half hour I kept working them trying to get them to come in and a couple times I thought it was working. Sorry to say they never appeared, I don't know what happened. I think maybe I got a bit carried away with the calling, your guess is as good as mine.

I never did tag one but being able to talk back and forth with them and have them come a little closer gave me hope for another day. My next trip out I think I am heading for the opposite ridge where I believe they came from yesterday morning.

On the way home I was passing this corn field that had not been tilled yet and was lucky enough to see a gobbler out in the middle strutting his stuff for a loan hen. I was even more lucky to get it on my cam corder (future video post, I hope) which was also pretty cool. As I continued down the road I caught 3 more turkey's walking through someone's back yard.

Pretty ironic don't you think. I am out hunting them and don't see any but on the way home driving down the road I spot a total of 5, go figure. I sure hope I can stay out longer the next time which I hope will be tomarrow. That all depends on how work goes tonight, most days I'm lucky to finish a 8 hour shift and make it home without nodding off.

Tuesday's Tip's & Technique's - #37

Know your limitations:

This one is really quite simple but easily forgotten and that is knowing your limitations on physical exertion in the field. I realized this this morning while turkey hunting. I know I have mentioned a few things before about Lyme disease and what it has done to me and I except the fact that I can't do what I used to do, at least in excess. Although, I tend to forget until I do to much and pay for it later.

Being in the outdoors I'm sure is on a lot of our minds because that is what we do. I just want to remind most of us that it does take a certain amount of stress on our bodies depending on what we are actually doing. Just because you feel alright does not mean much these days so I would suggest at the very least getting a yearly physical.

I for one have learned for the most part what I can do and what I need to becareful of when I do it. So basically my tip of the day would be to be in the best shape that you possibly can be in so the outdoors can energize you instead of slow you down.

Drury Outdoors 20th Year Platinum Edition DVDs

I subscribed to Drury Outdoors awhile back and I received a email today about them releasing a 20th. anniversary dvd's. I thought you would be interested.

For 20 years, Mark and Terry Drury have been flagship innovators in the world of outdoor TV production, and the May 12th release of Whitetail Madness 12, Dream Season 12 and Volume 9 of the 100% Wild Fair Chase series, will serve as the ultimate celebration of the ground-breaking style and deer hunting tactics that have kept Drury Outdoors on top for two decades. All together, it's over 7 ½-hours of giant whitetail kills and encounters, with more inches of antler and more reasons to watch than ever before.

Whitetail Madness 12 catalogs a year of big-buck fanaticism from shed hunting in March to the blowing snow of the late muzzleloader season. Of the 18 kills by bow, gun and muzzleloader, 7 score over an astounding 160". Dream Season 12 continues Team Drury's redefinition of the American dream - sharing the hunt with family. Bonds are reinforced and plenty of huge bucks hit the turf in this year's edition. Here's Your Sign, Volume 9 in the 100% Wild Fair Chase series is a how-to on closing the deal using deer sign full of heart-thumping big-deer waylays.

"Twenty years ago, Terry and I set out to capture the heart and soul of our sport in a way that's never been done. It started with a motto 'Our Videos Are Different,' and we've remained dedicated to on-screen innovation ever since. How can we make this more relevant to our audience? What do American deer hunters want to see? We're positive our Platinum Anniversary whitetail titles are more than they could've asked for," said Mark Drury.

The three new 20th Year Platinum Edition DVDs hit shelves everywhere May 12th to commemorate Drury Outdoors' platinum anniversary. If you're a deer hunter, you'll agree it was worth the two decades' wait.

###

If you'd like more information about the 20th Year Anniversary Platinum series or the individual DVD's featured in this release, please contact Matthew Drury at 636.447.3612 or mattdrury@druryoutdoors.com.

Savory Sunday's - #13

Grilled Deer Burgers

• 1 pound ground venison
• 1 pound fatty ground beef
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1 whole egg
• 2 tablespoons of finely chopped red onion
• 1 tablespoon of finely chopped green pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Combine all of the ingredients, mixing will. Form into patties and grill over medium high heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature of the venison burgers reaches 160F.

Try this. A couple of minutes before removing the burgers from the grill, put slices of smoky provolone cheese on top. Then slap 'em into the hamburger buns and enjoy!

Have plenty of fixings on hand for the burgers...sliced onions, dill pickles, lettuce, ketchup and mustard, jalapeno slices. And some cold ice tea to wash it all down.

Happy Mother's Day!

I just wanted to take a minute to say Happy Mother's Day to all you mom's and mom's to be.

I sincerely hope you all have a great day.

Today we are going to my brothers for a cookout and we are bringing one of these for all the mom's.

I didn't want to leave the mom's and mom's to be in the blogoshere empty handed so here is a visual rose w/baby's breath for all of you from Heidi and I here at "Whitetail Woods".

Time to look out for Spotted Fawns

It is that time of year we need to start looking for Fawns. If you come across one while out in the field you need to back away and leave. Don't try to touch or interact, mom will not be to far away and could possibly abandon it if you leave human scent.

If your driving you need to be prepared to stop. A small fawn can do almost as much body damage to your vehicle ass a full grown deer.

Q: Do Whitetail Fawns smell at Birth?

A: Fawns are born completely odorless for the first few days of life. The doe relocates away from the fawn only returning for nursing. This prevents predators from detecting the fawn's scent and the location of the fawn.

Whitetail fawns are born from April through July. At birth, whitetail fawns usually weighs between 4 and 8 pounds. The first 48 hours of life are crucial to the fawn's survival. A poorly nourished momma doe reduces a fawn's chances of survival. Fawns surviving their first week of life have a good chance of joining the deer herd. In the first few weeks of a fawn's life, the doe will determine the location the fawn will stay. At birth, fawns have a orangish-brown coat and are covered in white spots. The spots provide camouflage helping the fawn to blend-in with the surrounding environment. These spots will fade away in the fall when the first winter coat of fur is grown.

Like most adult deer, fawns remain motionless when danger is near. Fawns and adult deer will often go unnoticed by predators by staying still. If you come across a fawn in the wild, please do not touch it. The doe is nearby and will often abandon a fawn if human odor is present on the fawn.

Q: How long do Whitetail Fawns keep their Spot?

A: At birth whitetail fawns have silky, reddish coats dappled with white spots. Fawns molt out of their spots and are weened by September/October. Their coats become grayish and lose their spots completely by their first winter.

Runaways from deer farm face death sentence from state wildlife officials

I can certainly see the state's concerns in this matter but it seems to be that they might be jumping ahead of themselves on this issue. What do you all think?

John Horton - Plain Dealer Reporter

Huntsburg Township- Joe Byler overlooked the open gate at his Geauga County farm. His animals didn't.

Seven trophy whitetailed deer being raised by Byler meandered out of their suddenly not-so-fenced-in pen on April 26. It may prove to be a fatal escape. State wildlife officials intend to shoot and kill any runaways that Byler fails to round up within the next few days.

Three remained on the lam as of Monday afternoon. Byler managed to recapture the other big money bucks last week with the help of friends.

"All we need is more time," Byler said.

He won't get much.

The concern is chronic wasting disease entering Ohio, said Dan Kramer, a state wildlife management supervisor in Northeast Ohio. The neurological disorder afflicting deer and elk has been detected among captive and wild herds in 14 states, including West Virginia.

Byler's wayward deer need to be checked for the disease since they may be mixing with wild deer, Kramer said. An animal must be killed to be tested.

"We'll err on the side of caution," Kramer said.

That's overkill, Byler said.

The three bucks still out roaming were born and raised on Byler's Clay Street farm, and have never left Ohio. Byler said he can't remember the last time he imported a deer from out of state to add to the small herd at Tare Creek Whitetails.

"My deer are not diseased, no, they're not," Byler said. "It's just an excuse for them."

Byler said he stands to lose a minimum of $42,000 - the amount another breeder previously agreed to pay for two of the escaped deer - if the state kills the animals. "That's a big hit for a little farm," said Byler, who owns 22 deer.

Read the complete story:

Blog Spotlight - Deer Passion

Well, it's that time again. It has been a month and it's time for me to place anther blog I follow into the Blog Spotlight.

The Deer Passion blog is actually one of the first blogs I believe if memory serves me right that swapped links with me in the beginning and has periodically stopped by to show continued support, this post is the least that I can do.

In all honestly Kansas has been one of those places that I have always wanted to hunt for whitetails but especially now with the economy and my budget being the way it is I will have to be satisfied with my home state. But if any of you can afford to go I would definately go.

I think this explains Deer Passion without any second thought, and it's in her own words.

I'm a small town girl from central Kansas. I love life and everything that it has to offer. One of my main passions in life is the preservation and continuation of an outdoors lifestyle, including hunting, fishing, conservation, and everything related.

She also includes a "Quote of the Week" which is very nice. It is something that caught my attention in the beginning. So please show your continued support and stop by to say hello.

Opening Day of CT's Spring Turkey Season

The 2009 Spring Turkey Season in Connecticut is officially underway.

Sad to say I didn't make it out. I had to pull double duty at work last night and on top of that it was raining pretty good went I got home at 1:00 AM this morning so I opted to stay in bed. But, no worries I have like a total of 22 days that I can hunt so I am sure I'll be out there.

Here is some basic info if your interested,

Spring Turkey Seasons

License & Permits: Firearms hunting license or Small Game and Deer Archery Permit and a spring turkey permit. You may obtain only one type of spring turkey permit (either state land, private land or free landowner).
Hunting Hours: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 12 noon.
Legal Firearms: Shotguns, 20 gauge or larger, with #4, 5, 6, or 7 1/2 shot. Shotguns must not be capable of holding more than 3 shells.
Legal Bows: For the purposes of hunting deer and turkey, legal bows and arrows include long, recurved, and compound bows with a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds. An arrowhead must have at least two blades and must be at least 7/8 inch wide at its widest point. Arrowheads that are designed to open on impact are legal provided they meet the above requirement. Mechanical string release devices are permitted. Projectiles coated with any drug, poison or tranquilizing substance are prohibited.
Special Conditions:

Possession of a Firearm - Possession of a firearm while archery hunting is prohibited.
State Land Hunting - See Public Hunting Areas for a listing of areas open for Spring Turkey hunting with a state land permit.
Tagging and Reporting - New regulations pending (more info).
Private Land Permission - Signed written consent of the landowner on official forms for the current season must be carried while hunting.
Decoys - Decoys may be used, but live decoys are prohibited.
Mandatory Hunter Survey Card - New regulations pending (more info).
Junior Hunter Training Day - Saturday May 2 (more info)

Turkey Hunting Topic/Season	Current Regulations	Proposed Regulations
Tagging a Turkey	Punch out and remove circles on the tag which indicate the month and day the turkey was killed. Write your hunting license number in the appropriate space and then sign the tag. Immediately attach the tag to the bird. The tag must remain on the turkey until it is cut up for consumption.	Immediately upon killing a turkey, complete and sign a Kill Tag and keep it with the carcass at all times. The Kill Tag must remain with the turkey until it is cut up for consumption.
	Current Regulations	Proposed Regulations
Spring Turkey Season	Tagging and Reporting - birds must be tagged immediately upon kill. The Kill Report Card which comes with the permit must be completed and mailed within 24 hours of harvesting a turkey.	Tagging and Reporting - Immediately upon killing a turkey, fill out and sign a Kill Tag and keep it with the carcass at all times. Each turkey killed must be reported within 24 hours via the internet or by calling a toll-free number.

Tuesday's Tip's & Technique's - #36

Videotaping while hunting:

This year I am going to try and take my camcorder along with me. I have a few reasons why which I will explain.


1. It would make for an interesting post if i was to include short video's.

2. I could use them to study deer movement/reaction for future hunts.

3. I could also use it for reporting violations.

4. I could maybe make my own How-To video's which has been a thought.

There are a number of reasons, to many to list if you think of it. This camcorder you see is one I bought off a friend awhile back and really only used it a couple times. You can actually hold it in the palm of your hand (maybe that is why it is also called a palmcorder) so it is not that big. It can easily fit in a backpack.

It carries a small tape cartridge that looks like a mini vhs tape. Their not that expensive and their good for at least 30 minutes. I bought a three pack at CVS Pharmacy for just under $9.00.

I haven't figured out how to transfer the tape over to video yet but I will.

You never know what you can catch on film, you just might surprise yourself.

A Look at what Could Be!

Just thought I would share my definition of Spring.

This picture was taken from a nest in the bush right out in front of my house. The Robins use it every year.

Oak Creek antler poachers caught on tape

I don't believe that this happens much in my neck of the woods here in the northeast but everything I have read points out West way. It sounds like it can be a real problem but, modern technology can really be a asset.

By Scott Sandsberry, Yakima Herald-Republic

NACHES -- Outlaw shed hunters can no longer depend on the dark of night.

From now on, the night will have eyes.

Armed with the kind of high-tech surveillance equipment usually associated with international espionage or cinematic whimsy, the managers at Oak Creek Wildlife Area and other state-managed lands are in a game of "gotcha" with trespassers looking for shed antlers.

And they're getting them, too -- on film, with time and date on every frame.

"I've got photos of violators -- hikers, ATVers, Jeepers, going by our hidden cameras," said Oak Creek manager John McGowan, who was able to use an extensive network of hidden cameras during the closure this year.

The $11,000 network of night-vision, motion-detecting cameras was provided this spring by Eyes in the Woods, an Olympia-based watchdog organization supporting the state wildlife department in catching or dissuading poachers and other law-breakers on wildlife land. And it wasn't long after the cameras were installed that they began producing dividends.

"Less than 24 hours later, here's somebody walking right by the camera, shed strapped to his back," McGowan said.

The problem -- with the exception of one four-wheeler whose license plate was captured clearly on film -- is in identifying the individuals captured on film.

"What we want is for the local community to go, 'Hey, these are the guys who are stealing from us,' " McGowan said.

For years, a steady stream of antler-antsy scofflaws have ignored the March-April closure instituted at Oak Creek and several other wildlife areas to prevent disturbance to wintering elk around the various feeding stations.

"It's a statewide problem," said Tony Wells, land access director for Eyes in the Woods. "It's happening more and more as time goes on. The reason we're doing it is for the conservation side of the issue -- (the shed hunters) are stressing the animals at the point when they're at the weakest point in their cycle."

Read the complete story:

Savory Sunday's - #12

Trout on the Grill



Fresh trout

Butter

Seasoning salt

Lemon


Coat both outer sides of trout with flour then fill cavity of trout with seasoning salt and butter. Then place on a sheet of aluminum foil and lightly wrap closed. Place on a hot grill for 5 to 7 minutes on each side.

Serve with your favorite vegetable and/or corn on the cob.

Pre-Checking my Gear for Turkey Season

Being Saturday and there is only 4 more days to the turkey season opener I figured I would take today and go over what I plan to use so I know when Wednesday morning comes I can feel confident enough where I can sit, relax and enjoy that time in the woods.

Now I had bought a ground blind to help conceal me (I think that was part of my problem last season) but, I have to admit I bought it probably a month ago and haven't even taken it out of the box. So today it comes out and I get a system down on how it operates. If it hides my movements which has always been a problem even while deer hunting that it should be worth the time and money.

I also have to admit that I bought a Thermacel to keep the skeeters away (last year I spent more time swatting nats than keeping still) but, again I have even taken it out of the box. So today is the day I am going to make sure I know how that operates.

For me I like to check and recheck because if I am going to spend what little time I have in my pursuit of what makes me happy than I need to do it with equipment that is going to work for me when I need it. I put a lot of time into my outdoor/hunting activities and try to get the most out of it. I hope to pass a lot of what I know to my son Tyler who already loves the outdoors and like shed hunting. I plan to take him fishing hopefully tomarrow morning if the weather is good but, that is another post.

Here is my Pre-check List:

• setup ground blind, make sure it operate properly
• load and turn on thermacel to make sure it operates properly
• load backpack
  

1. slate call
2. box call
3. first-aid kit
4. water jug
5. hunting knife
6. binoculars
7. ammunition
8. cell phone
9. turkey tags
10. camera
11. gloves
12. facemask

• load and charge cam corder (I am going to try and use it this year)
• make sure headlamp has fresh batteries

This was a basic check list and one that I am sure has more to it if I forgot anything. That will at least give you an idea.