Illinois Outfitters

Copper's Creek Outfitters

Located near beautiful Illinois City, in Rock Island and Mercer Counties, Copper's Creek Outfitters offers one of western Illinois' best areas for trophy turkey and monster whitetail. Owners Beau and Tom Carlson provide first-class guided hunts, lodging and great memories to those who want the best out of turkey and deer seasons.

THERE IS A PLACE...

Where the Mississippi River turns south and the rolling timbers of western Illinois are only divided by corn, soybean fields, and of course, the hunger and anticipation of harvesting a trophy whitetail slicing through the crisp fall air.

It is here, in Rock Island and Mercer Counties, that we have lived and farmed for over 50 years. It is also here that several of the country's largest trophy bucks and boss gobblers, which Illinois is known for, call home.

Your "Chance of a lifetime," is our everyday priority. Are you looking for an outfitter to provide you and/or your group with an experience that has not been commercialized, like so many of the rest? Are you tired of "being a number" at the camp? Are you wanting to eliminate regret from your next hunting adventure? If so, then remember...

THERE IS A PLACE...

We can put you in place to take big spurs, long beards and trophy deer. We like to say, "We've been planning for next year's hunt for years," meaning that we put in the work to get the game ready for a long time before we took on any hunters. And now we think that we, the whitetails and the turkey are ready!

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Golden Triangle Whitetail

Experience a quality whitetail hunt in the heart of Illinois' big buck country with Golden Triangle Whitetail. We manage our 13,000 acres of private land with one goal in mind—to put you on the buck of your dreams!

Illinois is home to monster whitetails bucks. And Golden Triangle Whitetail is located in the heart of big buck country—Adams, Brown, and Pike counties—the west-central portion of the state. These countries are known as deer hunting's "Golden Triangle" because they have dominated the Pope & Young and Boone & Crockett listings in recent years. That's why you've read about them in your favorite hunting publications. If you're a serious hunter, you owe it to yourself to experience a hunt in the Land of Lincoln.

We strictly manage each farm for trophy whitetail. We do this in several ways. First, we only buy or lease farms that hold a lot of deer, and have the habitat to produce quality bucks year after year. Second, we don’t start hunting until the third week of October, or the pre-rut phase. No one sets foot on these farms before hand to ensure minimal pressure. Third, we limit the amount of hunters we take on each property, not the amount of bucks we harvest. We do expect our hunters to only harvest a mature 140 + buck. However, we also tell them if it’s the biggest buck you have ever seen, shoot it. Remember, this is not supposed to be only a hunt, but an enjoyable experience. We treat it as both.

Turkey Hunting: An abundant turkey population provides the spring hunter with the utmost challenge. It is not uncommon to see flocks of 20 to 30 at this time of year.

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Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts

Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts is located in the southernmost part of Illinois in the fertile Ohio River Bottoms, also known as the deer capital of Illinois. We offer the ideal environment for harvesting trophy whitetails. The natural make-up of our land coupled with the extensive time and effort put into enhancing our property provides you with the best trophy hunting opportunity.

We have almost 11,000 acres of private land consisting of crop lands, white-oak acorn forests, swamps and sloughs around the old Ohio River bottoms. In addition, a fertile soil has allowed us to produce rich food plots creating a sanctuary for reclusive monster bucks. A multitude of secret food plot mixes are interspersed throughout our properties which serve to maintain and enhance our big buck population. Our area has produced giant bucks scoring up to 208 typical inches and Boone and Crockett, 250-plus inch non-typicals. Only Pope and Young bucks scoring 130" and larger may be taken which allows for optimal maturation of bucks.

In addition to this big buck refuge, our land is scouted thoroughly throughout the year to maximize your chances for a successful hunt. We have up to 300 or more lock on and ladder stand sites ready and in position. Currently we use the top ladder and Loc-on Stands on the market. Over the years our guides have found that close tree steps that hunters can reach and ladder sticks are appreciated by our hunters. We try and position a majority of all stands between 17 and 20 feet in height. Our guides are ready and willing to work for you while you are in. If you see a large animal across a field and ravine we will try and help you move to get on the animal. Our guides are family and friends that have grown up and lived in the area all their lives!

Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts guarantees the work ethic and dedication required to provide you with the hunt of a lifetime. We have a high return rate on past hunters. Our hunters are not only impressed with the bucks on our land but also the extraordinary quality and management of our food plots. Our overall acres and those of high protein food plots continue to amaze our hunters each year.

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Performance Outdoors

Performance Outdoors: Known for the BUCKS, but the GOBBLERS are hot too!! Although West-Central Illinois and Southern Iowa are mostly known for Trophy Whitetail Bucks, we also have some of the best Wild Turkey hunting in the nation. Performance Outdoors offers guided and self-guided turkey hunts on the same farms and quality habitat that has made us the premiere outfitter for Monster Whitetails.

At Performance Outdoors, we hunt a mixture of rolling hills, pastures, crop fields, and river bottoms. These hunts are with all the amenities you would expect from Performance Outdoors. The hunts include: guide (optional), maps and directions to farms, property aerial photos, comfortable lodging and accommodations. All non-residents must apply for turkey tags and this
happens in the beginning of January of each year. Many hunters desire to hunt Illinois and Iowa on the same hunt. We can help you customize a hunt. Quaker Boy has been hunting with us for years. Quaker Boy pro staffer, Bob Wozniak says “The hunting is some of the best in the nation. It’s unbelievable. To date, I have had a 100% success on the client I have brought to Performance Outdoors for Spring Turkey Hunting.” Spring Turkey hunting is also a great time to learn some of the land you could hunt Giant Whitetail on. You might even be lucky enough to bump into a giant whitetail shed.

West-central Illinois is home of world record class Whitetails. Famous bucks, such as the Bryant Buck (304 inches) & the Macomb Monster (293 inches), were shot a stones throw from many of our farms. We hunt the best land of the top producing counties: Fulton and Hancock. Licenses are acquired through a DRAW, but since 1997 we have had nearly 100% success rate. We take away the headache of getting tags yourself, Performance Outdoors will get your tags for you. We offer archery, limited firearm, and combination hunts. Most farms have a minimum buck size of 125” for archery and 140” for gun. Hunters arrive in camp at 3pm the day before the hunt begins and hunt through the last day. Clients depart the next morning by 9am. Hunts are either Smart Scouter, guided (GUIDED CAMP) or semi-guided (DROP CAMP). RUT dates book very early so we advise booking as soon as you have made your decision to hunt with us. Performance Outdoors will also try to accommodate for special scheduling circumstance when possible.

Southern Iowa is well known to any serious Trophy Whitetail Hunter. This area is home the current World Record (Lovstuen Buck, 304 7/8). Performance Outdoors operates in famous zone 5. Tags are by applications and draw only and it usually takes 2 years to get the tag. Iowa works on a preference point system, which means the more points you have the better your chance of getting drawn. Because of this, we recommend purchasing a point the years you do not plan to hunt Iowa. (Not actually applying for tag) Each applicant can purchase one point per year. This sets you in line for the year you want to hunt. Once you have accumulated enough points to get the tag, we will get you applied and scheduled for the hunt. Applications are due in May. Per- formance Outdoors can take the headache out of applying, by booking your hunt in advance.

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Xtreme Management Hunts

Xtreme Management Hunts offers fully-guided and semi-guided trophy whitetail and turkey hunts. We operate in Pike County, Illinois and southeast Iowa -- The midwest's premier trophy whitetail hunting locations.

Firearm hunts and archery hunts are offered on a limited basis to maintain low hunting pressure. Maintaining year round nutrition with various food plots and initiating extensive managment practices ensures our trophy whitetail deer and turkey develop to their full potential. We are now using the same conservation and trophy management techniques that have proven successful on our Illinois deer hunts to enhance the hunting opportunities on our exclusive Iowa trophy hunts as well.

Iowa whitetail hunts provide exposure to similar trophy whitetail deer and turkey. Iowa deer hunts are limited due to the availability of permits from the state so contact us today about these exclusive hunts. We operate our Illinois deer hunts in the northern part of Pike County along the Mississippi river valley. Field crops are plentiful along with hardwood timbers. We plant additional crops of clover, oats, alfalfa and brasicas to maintain nutrition over the entire year. Intensive management is key to our success. We maintain very low whitetail and turkey hunting pressure, offering our hunters a great chance at a successful harvest. Doe harvest is maintained by offering every hunter harvesting a doe a chance at a free hunt. We maintain a strict limit of 140-inch (gross) Boone and Crockett score on our mature bucks. These guidelines enable us to continue offering quality Illinois whitetail trophy hunts. Stands are pre-hung in pre-scouted areas ready to hunt the first day of your hunt. Our hunts usually begin with your arrival on Sunday morning for orientation of your hunting area and stand locations. You can hunt Sunday afternoon through Friday morning and depart on Friday evening.

Iowa deer hunts are available in southeast Iowa on a limited basis. Join us for a great Iowa muzzleloader hunt. Permits are on a draw and very limited; it usually takes a bonus point from the pervious year to draw.

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Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts - Illinois

Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts is located in the southernmost part of Illinois in the fertile Ohio River Bottoms, also known as the deer capital of Illinois. We offer the ideal environment for harvesting trophy whitetails. The natural make-up of our land coupled with the extensive time and effort put into enhancing our property provides you with the best trophy hunting opportunity.

We have almost 11,000 acres of private land consisting of crop lands, white-oak acorn forests, swamps and sloughs around the old Ohio River bottoms. In addition, a fertile soil has allowed us to produce rich food plots creating a sanctuary for reclusive monster bucks. A multitude of secret food plot mixes are interspersed throughout our properties which serve to maintain and enhance our big buck population. Our area has produced giant bucks scoring up to 208 typical inches and Boone and Crockett, 250-plus inch non-typicals. Only Pope and Young bucks scoring 125" and larger may be taken which allows for optimal maturation of bucks.

In addition to this big buck refuge, our land is scouted thoroughly throughout the year to maximize your chances for a successful hunt. We have up to 300 or more lock on and ladder stand sites ready and in position. Currently we use the top ladder and Loc-on Stands on the market. Over the years our guides have found that close tree steps that hunters can reach and ladder sticks are appreciated by our hunters. We try and position a majority of all stands between 17 and 20 feet in height. Our guides are ready and willing to work for you while you are in. If you see a large animal across a field and ravine we will try and help you move to get on the animal. Our guides are family and friends that have grown up and lived in the area all their lives!

Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts guarantees the work ethic and dedication required to provide you with the hunt of a lifetime. We have a high return rate on past hunters. Our hunters are not only impressed with the bucks on our land but also the extraordinary quality and management of our food plots. Our overall acres and those of high protein food plots continue to amaze our hunters each year.

For more information on available dates and price quotes go to the Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts link below.

Illinois Ohio Valley Trophy Hunts

Buffalo County Buck Connection - Wisconsin

Buffalo County Buck Connection is a hunting outfitter that specializes in providing semi-guided hunts for trophy whitetail deer. We also offer spring turkey hunts.

Our hunting property consists of approximately 3,300 acres of privately owned land in the heart of Buffalo County -- Absolutely no high fences; this is a fair chase hunt!

The state of Wisconsin is known as one of the best places to hunt deer in the country and Buffalo County is recognized as one of the best trophy buck regions in the nation. Buffalo County is located in Wisconsin along the upper Mississippi River valley. After many years of Quality Deer Management, it has earned a well deserved reputation for producing trophy whitetail bucks.

During the September through December seasons, we offer semi-guided hunts. You will be hunting wild whitetail deer in their natural habitat on 3,300-plus acres of privately owned land in a Quality Deer Management area, the trophy whitetail heart of Wisconsin known as Buffalo County.

Your hunting package will include the hunt, lodging, all meals, tree stands and the knowledge of experienced hunters and outfitters, Jeff and Dave Peil.

For more information on bowhunting trophy whitetails visit the United Outfitter Association.

Free Manitoba Archery Whitetail Hunt Giveaway

To show our sincere appreciation to the sportsmen and sportswomen who visit and contribute to our Web Site and Talk Forums, Monty McKenzie of Manitoba-based McKenzie Outfitters and the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com have teamed up once again to announce another FREE Hunt Giveaway.

Our registered and contributing Talk Forums members have the chance to win a Fully-Guided, 2010 Manitoba Archery Whitetail Hunt. New and Existing Members are both eligible to win Free Hunt.

One lucky United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com Talk Forum Member will be randomly selected to bow hunt trophy whitetails (including waterfowl and upland bird hunting at no extra charge) during the 2010 Manitoba Archery deer (waterfowl and upland bird) season(s) with Monty McKenzie of McKenzie Outfitters and Steve Peters, founder and President of the United Outfitters Association – FORAHUNT.com.

Registering is simple and easy. You just fill out the registration form and a confirmation E mail is sent to your E mail address -- Be sure to check your junk or bulk mail folder for the confirmation E mail as certain mail programs filter the confirmation E mail. You will then be able to post on our forums.

New Members Register By Clicking Here: Register

Best of Luck!!

United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com Staff

Bowhunting Whitetails: Scout Now, Score Early

The temperatures in summer are hot and humid. Biting bugs swarm. Clothes stick. Sweat beads. Why would bowhunting whitetails be on your mind, you ask? Well, if you’re like me, hunting whitetails with archery gear is a way of life. And, part of my living depends on the discussion of hunting. So, bear with me and before long, you just may find yourself daydreaming of thick-racked bucks and the heart-pounding magic of a crisp fall morning.

The turn of the seasons sparks a desire in many bowhunters to head for the nearest hills in search of the elusive whitetail. As the heat of summer surrenders its stranglehold on the deer woods, whitetail bucks become highly visible creatures. A short drive down any country road during the month of August should produce the sighting of at least one decent set of antlers. The trouble is finding that set of antlers after the bow season opens. Therein lies the dilemma of bowhunting early-season whitetails. Let’s take a look at a few tactics that can increase your chances of scoring.

Low-Impact Scouting

Many hunters make the mistake of tromping blindly through prime whitetail habitat in search of the ultimate stand site. Whitetails are extremely sensitive to human intrusion, making it very difficult to conceal one’s movements. This is especially true of big bucks. If not careful, you will unwittingly announce your future intentions to the resident deer herd. And, once a mature whitetail feels threatened, he will move to a totally different locale or become primarily nocturnal. I don’t have to tell you what that will do to your odds of arrowing such an animal. Then, what’s the answer, you ask?

That’s simple. Get yourself a good set of high-quality binoculars or a spotting scope and do your scouting from a safe distance. Crop fields should be your main focus at this time. Lush rows of alfalfa, soybeans and corn draw deer for miles. But before making a mad dash to the nearest “Back 40,” take heed of a few ground rules. Keep disturbance to a minimum. Set up in a row of trees or along a brushy fence line to screen your silhouette. Also, be sure to keep the wind direction in mind when investigating an area of interest. Always set up with the wind in your face, or downwind, so not to contaminate the area with human scent. A few afternoons spent along a verdant field edge should prove beneficial when pinpointing a location for your stand.

By careful and persistent observation, you will begin to learn the travel behavior of several bucks. Once you have established the daily routine of each buck, you will be able to plan a strategy. Start your reconnaissance by skirting the edges of fields during midday. Look for trails that receive a high amount of traffic if you are interested in tagging smaller deer. A large set of tracks found along a less-noticeable trail normally indicates that a trophy buck is frequenting the area. A sharp eye and a basic sense of deer behavior can lead you to these types of trails. Concentrate your efforts in a location that will afford the best chance of taking the class of animal you desire.

There are other low-impact methods of scouting that can produce results as well. Incorporating topographical maps, aerial photographs and computer-mapping programs into your scouting repertoire can lead you to areas that you otherwise might overlook.

Feeding Trails and Funnels

Setting a stand along a trail linking a bedding area to a crop field or other food source can be deadly in the first few days of the early archery season. In fact, the very first week of the season is usually an opportune time to arrow a cruising animal. During the latter stages of summer and into early fall, big bucks routinely travel between these two areas.

If you are interested in seeing a lot of deer around your stand, find a “funnel.” This is any type of natural or man-made structure that consistently forces deer to move through the same section of woods. The operative word here is “forces.” Deer become susceptible to death by broadhead whenever their movement is restricted to a certain part of the woods. It can be as simple as noticing a missing or broken strand of barbed wire where deer cross a fence from one piece of property to another. Or, it can be a fallen tree that forces movement to one side of the trail or the other.

Man also plays a significant role in the creation of funnels. Development is a common cause of funnel production. A new home, road or drainage ditch are all factors that can alter deer movement in some way or another. Basically, deer are lazy by nature. They will seek out the path of least resistance when traveling through an area. Keying on these habits can spell early-season success.

Here’s the Rub

If you set your sights on a buster buck, it would be in your best interest to locate as many fresh rubs as possible. Only antlered animals make rubs, and usually the bigger the rub, the bigger the deer. No other type of sign is more conclusive that a buck is visiting your stand site than a rub.

Locating fresh rubs isn’t as difficult as you might think. The edges of crop fields are a good bet. Deer that visit a field at night will usually leave a rub on the edge of the woods when exiting the field in the morning. Rubs typically face the direction of travel. The best scenario is finding several rubs along a trail system. Several trees will be clearly marked and will receive similar damage if the same buck is doing the majority of the rubbing. This is a relatively easy way of keeping tabs on an individual buck. Set your stand within 15 to 20 yards of the rub line and on the downwind side of the trail.

Observation Stands

If all of your attempts at locating deer fail during the open season, I suggest choosing another effective method of scouting -- placing a stand in a promising area simply to observe deer movement. You can opt to exchange your bow and arrows with a set of binoculars and a notebook for spotting and documenting your findings. If the spot looks promising, bring your bow just in case. Remember you are on a serious fact-finding mission, so exercise as much caution as you normally would practice when bowhunting active stand sites. Take a shower, sneak into the stand location, only hunt when the wind is favorable, wear rubber-bottomed boots, etc. You do not want to alert the deer to your intentions.

It should only take a few sittings to record and identify the travel habits of the deer in the immediate area. Be sure to choose a location where visibility is unobstructed. You need to be able to see a great distance in order to cover as much ground as possible. Pay close attention to how and where the deer move when passing through the area. Your observations will assist you in future stand placement.

Summary

OK, I’ll admit it. Getting fired-up about scouring the countryside in search of deer sign when the season is a few months away is difficult. It’s even worse when the thought of staying at home in front of the television in air-conditioned comfort enters your mind. But, no one ever said bowhunting was easy. So remember, in order to achieve success at bowhunting early-season whitetails, you will have to put in your time long before the season opens.

For more information on bowhunting whitetails go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Nebraska Whitetails: Bowhunting The Cornhusker State

The sound of leaves crunching in the distance alerted me to the slow progression of several deer approaching my stand site. My heart began to flutter in anticipation of their arrival, as the staccato rhythm of advancing footfalls grew louder and louder. The first deer to appear on the scene was a medium-sized doe, followed by an 8-pointer and a much larger buck whose unique-looking rack sported a small sticker point, and a broken left brow tine. As I embraced the magic of the moment, a surge of deep concentration took over my thought process. My eyes immediately centered on the bigger of the two bucks. After casting a few quick glances in his direction, I instantly determined that he was a “shooter.”

My position was ideal. A strategically placed ladder stand blended in well with the surrounding terrain. The stand was located approximately 15 feet above the ground in one of several large oak trees that overlooked a gradually sloping hillside. This particular area was a virtual haven for white-tailed deer. It offered an assortment of natural attractants that appealed to bucks of all shapes and sizes, including the most dominant and mature. The presence of a nearly impenetrable cedar thicket to the south served as a secure sanctuary for their daytime bedding area. In addition, a small creek bottom and a recently picked cornfield nestled below the stand of oaks provided an inviting buffet of food and water. Also, large family groups of female deer commonly gathered on the hillside oak flat at sundown to feed, which further increased its allure.

From my elevated perch, I watched the 8-pointer vigorously work over a large scrape and its helpless overhanging branch. Meanwhile, the bigger buck appeased his appetite by devouring a healthy amount of acorns. He was also quite intent on analyzing the actions of several does that were now lurking in the nearby shadows. Since it seemed obvious that he had no idea I was in the immediate area, I figured it was safe to try tickling his auditory nerve. I assumed that I could prey upon his natural impulses as his attitude clearly indicated that he was ready to start the breeding ritual. After slowly reaching for my grunt tube, I followed with three short tending grunts in an attempt to lure him into bow range. It seemed to work as he stepped out from a patch of thick brush and started heading in my direction.

I was bowhunting trophy bucks in southeastern Nebraska. It was the latter stages of October and the pre-rut phase of the whitetail breeding season was just starting to heat up. Although the drive from my then home state of Wisconsin had been long and tiresome, the prospect of hunting new territory kept my spirits high along the way.

Arriving later than expected, I quickly made plans for an early evening hunt. There was only enough time left in the day to purchase my license and to take a quick nap before making my freshman debut as a Cornhusker State bowhunter. After some much needed rest, I headed for the woods. Needless to say, I was eager to start my five-day instructional course in Nebraska Whitetail Hunting 101.

The last minute appearance of a large doe was the only action I experienced on that first afternoon. After coming within easy bow range, the lone deer occasionally stopped to browse in a nearby milo field. A sense of bittersweet consolation swept over me as the last seconds of legal shooting hours slowly ticked away. Undaunted by the outcome of my first encounter with a Nebraska whitetail, I sat back and enjoyed the peace and tranquility of nightfall. The gradual decent of the sun dissolved into a wash of vibrant colors, setting the night sky on fire. It was a show of natural artistry that I will not soon forget.

Once the doe was out of my sight, I quietly climbed down from my stand, walked out to the main trail and waited for my hunting partner to pick me up. Sitting alone in the darkness, I heard the eerie yips of several coyotes echoing in the distance. From one predator to another, I wished them all good hunting as I silently devised my own plan of attack. Although I never raised my bow from its hanger, it had been a good first day of hunting.

Unfortunately, the temperatures turned unseasonably warm for the month of October, resulting in tough hunting conditions. On the second day of my hunt, the mercury consistently hovered near the middle 70s. As one can imagine, good buck activity normally slows down during warmer weather conditions, but I had done my homework by conducting several intensive scouting missions just prior to my hunt. I knew if I was willing to spend some quality time at one of my many ambush sites, I would have an opportunity to take a good buck. Given my positive attitude, it was still surprising to have a good buck within effective bow range so soon into my five-day hunt.

The sound of my bogus grunts infuriated the buck. As the bruiser slowly worked his way toward my stand site, he answered back in bold defiance. Continuing his show of aggression, he stopped every few feet and pawed a fresh scrape on the ground, tearing at the earth with each ruthless thrust of his hooves.

Now strutting past at a mere 12 yards, urine dripping from his hind legs, the husky stag presented me with a perfect broadside target. Seeing the window of opportunity open, I slowly moved into position for the impending shot. Just as I started to feel the string’s tension on my finger tab, the twist of fate decided to rear its ugly head. At that very moment, the small 8-pointer came dangerously close to my stand tree, slamming the window shut.

Fearing that any movement would tip my hand, I elected to wait it out. And, wait I did. Standing stone still, afraid to even exhale, I could literally hear the ticking of my watch as seconds of time turned into minutes of agony. With the indiscriminate force of nature directing the show, the battle of wits ensued.

Finally, after what seemed like hours, the smaller buck moved off leaving his superior and I to finish the high stakes chess match on our own. The big 9-pointer was now facing directly away from me. He had moved out to 23 yards while I was busy performing my best impression of a tree trunk. As I waited for a shot opportunity, I silently reminded myself to pick a spot.

The buck began slowly moving to his right in what seemed like slow motion. Without hesitation, I brought my 78-pound Hoyt Vectrix XL back to full draw and waited for him to complete his turn. Suddenly, he paused and looked back in my direction. I patiently waited for him to look in another direction, but that look never came. Minutes passed as I pleaded with the heavens for a favorable outcome. I knew I had to act quickly or all would be lost. Realizing that I could no longer hold my pose, I forced myself to focus on a spot behind the buck’s shoulder blade and released the string from my stiff fingers.

My arrow found its mark in less than the blink of an eye. I watched the broadhead-tipped shaft penetrate the brute’s tough exterior as a crown of crimson instantly formed around the fletching. Fatally wounded, the buck fell to the ground within sight. Struggling to regain his feet, the big deer made a staggering exit, toppled over a ridge and came to rest at the bottom of a steep ravine. Hours later, in the radiant glow of the moon, I knelt at his side and gave thanks to the Great Spirit above while praising him for his courageous effort.

After conducting an early morning photo session and visiting a cold storage plant, I made arrangements to employ the services of a local butcher. It was during this time that I had a chance to reflect on the hunt. I quietly mused over the buck’s potential as a record book candidate and what may have caused him to break off one of his brow tines. After a fair amount of conjecture, I came to the conclusion that he lost it while defending his breeding rights. I surmised that another buck had invaded his territory and was competing for the amorous attentions of the local doe population, when a routine woodland scuffle turned ugly. In any event, I was one happy hunter to have harvested such a fine trophy.

As it turns out, the decision to end my hunt after only two days afield was somewhat prophetic. The temperatures continued to climb into the high 80s, causing most breeding activity to occur under the cover of darkness. As a result of Mother Nature’s fickle mood swing, daytime buck sightings became few and far between.

My only regret is that I didn’t spend more time in the woods chasing an even bigger buck that was caught on videotape in late August by some local hunters. Nicknamed “Heart Attack,” the huge 12-point typical is a true jaw-dropping monster. Maybe that Cornhusker State giant and I will cross paths sometime in the future, but that’s another story. Until then I'll set up an appointment with my cardiologist, and keep my bow fingers crossed.

For more information on bowhunting tips, tricks and strategies go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Choosing a New Compound Bow

There are many different types of bows on the market today, but choosing one is not an easy undertaking. The bow-manufacturing industry has been flooded with new innovations and developments in the last decade. Compound bows have gone through many alterations in appearance and architecture, with a number of drastic changes occurring in the past few years. Justifying the purchase of one bow over another these days requires more than just a large wallet filled with greenbacks and plastic. Fortunately, there are a few guidelines and procedures to follow that will help simplify the process.

Choosing the latest advancement in primitive weaponry begins with a decision to shoot a certain type and brand of bow. Draw length, draw weight, accuracy, wheel and cam design, reflex and deflex riser geometry, brace height, let-off, speed and price are all things to take into account when selecting a particular bow. Other factors to consider are its use. Will it be a hunting bow or a target bow? Will the majority of your shooting be indoors or out? Will it require a camouflage finish or not?

Once you have come to these conclusions, the next step is to visit a local pro shop or surf a favorite web site to obtain more information. A bow must “fit” its shooter. Having a qualified individual measure your draw length is the most important aspect of deciding to purchase a particular bow. Most bows offer multiple draw length options and adjustments.

Draw weight is yet another matter of importance. Draw weights are also adjustable and allow for various settings in 3- to 5-pound increasing and decreasing increments. Peak draw weights normally range between 45 and 90 pounds. Taking the time to shoot several bows will provide answers and can help determine the significance of each of the aforementioned considerations. It’s wise to test shoot as many bows as possible before laying down your hard-earned cash.

The current trend in manufacturing designs is to create bows with short axle-to-axle dimensions, reduced mass weight, low brace heights and high let-offs. Many companies have shied away from producing bows that feature round wheels, moderate let-offs or measure over 40 inches from axle-to-axle. This is in direct result of the present demand for more compact bows that possess the ability to boost arrow velocities, increase kinetic energy levels and extend downrange efficiency.

Of all the different makes and models of bows in existence, compounds certainly offer the widest variety of choices for today’s archer. Single-cam string and cable harness configurations, split limbs and ultramodern risers forged from high strength multi-composite alloys are just a few of the available upgrades in current production.

There are many advantages to owning a bow with a contemporary look and feel. As mentioned previously, split-limb and single-cam models significantly reduce mass weight. This quality is beneficial to those adventurous hunters who hike into remote backcountry in search of elk and mule deer. Also, in comparison to their two-cam and two-wheel counterparts, single-cam bows are relatively easier to tune and maintain.

In addition, the lightweight aluminum and carbon material used in the limbs, handles and risers, and the fabric used in the strings and cables of new age bows contribute to overall speed and weight reduction. If speed and weight reduction are the determining factors, choose your bow accordingly. These types of bows are better suited to those who utilize a release due to the sharp angle created in the string when a short-limbed bow is fully drawn.

On the other side of the equation, longer axle-to-axle bows are more accurate and forgiving, although this trend is starting to change with ongoing improvements in bow design. If the main concern is supreme accuracy, choose a bow that offers a longer brace height, a riser with deflex geometry, a moderate to low let-off and as long an axle-to-axle length as possible. Deflex risers generally reduce hand torque and are normally found on the most accurate bows. A low to moderate let-off will also yield more accuracy. Those who shoot with a finger tab or a glove require bows that create less of an angle in the string at full draw. This will greatly reduce accuracy problems associated with “string pinch,” which occurs at full draw when an acute angle in the bowstring causes extreme tension on the arrow.

Compound bows have one distinct advantage over all other bows -- let-off. Let-off is measured by a percentage of the draw weight that is reduced when the wheels or cams roll over at or near full draw. During this process, a fraction of the peak draw weight is decreased or “let-off.” The amount of let-off will not only affect accuracy, but also the personal satisfaction of the shooter, and quite possibly, trophy-book consideration. Much controversy has arisen from the limitations that the Pope and Young Club has placed on the amount of let-off a bow can possess. Sixty-five percent is the cut-off point. Any amount of let-off over 65 percent disqualifies an animal from being entered into the archery record book. Some bows offer higher let-offs in the 75- to 80-percent range. Be aware that a legitimately harvested trophy may not be eligible for record book recognition if the bow you choose has a let-off that is prohibited by the club.

Note: The Pope and Young Club currently lists animals taken with bows having a higher let-off than 65 percent. An asterisk is placed next to the name of the individual who harvested the animal. The asterisk denotes that a bow with a higher let-off than 65 percent was used to harvest the animal.

Limb selection is no longer limited to solid one-piece models. The appearance and performance of bows changed dramatically with the inception of split limbs. However, both types of limbs have advantages and disadvantages. Solid fiberglass and carbon limbs are inherently more durable than two-piece limbs. Nevertheless, split limbs not only reduce weight, but also transfer and distribute energy from the bow to the arrow more evenly. Some archers appreciate the appeal of a split-limb bow while others favor the traditional shape of solid limbs. The option of choosing straight limbs or recurved limbs is also available on most bows in production today. Straight limbs are generally faster while recurved limbs are more forgiving. With the overall differences minimal in comparison, personal preference normally plays the biggest role in limb selection.

These are just a few examples of what state-of-the-art engineering has to offer in bow design. It also illustrates the dilemma one will face when attempting to reach a final decision on which model to purchase. Only research and a healthy amount of leg and arm work will assist an archer in the quest for choosing the “right” bow.

For more information on bowhunting and bowhunting techniques go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Tuning Your Broadheads

I came dressed for the occasion, but the late-October breeze was unseasonably warm, making for a less-than-comfortable vigil. Although it didn't feel like good bowhunting weather, deer seemed to be everywhere. I had been on stand since just before daybreak and enjoyed a steady flow of deer activity throughout the day, despite the overly warm temperatures. However, my sights were set on a mature whitetail buck. The small 8-pointers, forkhorns and does were definitely tempting, but I was determined to hold out for a good deer.

As the sun began its decent across the western horizon more deer made their way toward my stand site. While keeping both eyes fixed on the surrounding terrain, I strained my ears to pinpoint their exact route of travel. Within minutes a small group of does replete with hearty appetites and generous amounts of energy gathered on the hillside oak flat.

I was in perfect position as the wind continued to disperse my scent away from the immediate area. Doe after doe filed past, offering numerous shot opportunities, but it was the second to last animal in the group that interested me. A dandy 10-point typical with a broken left brow tine had slipped past my sensory detectors and joined the parade. The last member of this whitetail train was a small, basket rack 8-pointer, following closely behind the bigger buck.

It was only a matter of time. If the bucks chose the same course as the does, I would have an unobstructed shot at 12 yards. As the 10-pointer moved past my stand, the smaller buck came dangerously close to my tree, preventing any chance for a shot. I knew that even the slightest movement would cause the 1 1/2 year-old deer to spook and could possibly ruin the chance of arrowing the big buck. So I waited.

Several minutes passed as I watched for an opening. Afraid to move, I held my position and prayed that the small buck would continue on. As if on cue, the little deer started down the gentle-sloping hillside and made his way to the picked cornfield below. I would get my shot.

During the predator-prey standoff with the youngster, the big buck had moved out to 23 yards and was now facing directly away from me. I drew back my bow the instant I saw him shift his body weight to the right. I held my point of aim on a small tuft of hair just behind the brute's shoulder blade soon after he turned broadside. As my line of sight came into focus, I relaxed my hand and let the string fall from my fingers.

I watched the spinning arrow rocket towards the buck's rib cage. The aluminum dart struck home with a loud "thwack" as the shaft buried up to its fletching. The buck wouldn't go far.

Many factors contributed to my success that day. As an example, I had been in my stand for over 10 straight hours, took the necessary precautions to control my scent, and paid particular attention to the wind direction. In addition, I had honed my shooting skills throughout the previous summer and made certain that my equipment was in proper working order.

There are many variables that can influence our success as hunting archers. The weather and wind direction can change without warning. The deer you are hunting may be preoccupied in another section of property, or the fickle graces of Lady Luck may decide that it is just not your day to score. Of all the aspects that come into play, keeping one's equipment in tune -- in this case, our broadheads -- is one factor that can be totally controlled. Let’s take a look at some ways to increase the efficiency of our equipment.

A bow, an arrow and a broadhead share a synergistic relationship. Synergy means that the total effect of a group of components is greater than the sum of their individual effects. As an example, each component has a certain individual "operational value," but by working in conjunction, the system as a whole will achieve greater results than what the individual effects could generate separately. That's why tuning your equipment is so important. If one of the components of your setup is not properly matched, it could throw off the entire system. Remember: Before trying to tune your broadheads, make certain that your bow and arrows properly match and that your bow is set up correctly.

In my opinion, tuning your fixed- or replaceable-blade broadheads requires a three-step process. I will list each step separately and what I do to keep my broadheads in perfect tune.

First, I attach a broadhead to one of my arrows with medium to tight pressure. Then, I spin-check it. By that I mean I rotate the arrow between my fingers on a flat surface with the tip of the broadhead acting as the apex of a spinning top. (You can also use one of the many commercial spin-checking devises on the market). If there is any noticeable "wobble" 1 to 2 inches above the insert of the arrow, the broadhead/arrow combination will not fly straight. In essence, it will "wobble" in flight.

As amazing as it sounds, some brand-new broadheads (inside the same package) will not line up with certain brand-new arrows. Generally, only one broadhead out of three will line up perfectly with a certain arrow. You have to experiment with each broadhead to find out which arrow it fits best. Perhaps this is because not all inserts are perfectly aligned -- tolerance levels fluctuate during mass production.

Second, I line up each blade of my three-blade broadheads with each (in my case) feather. In other words, when you look down the shaft from nock to tip, each feather (or vane) should line up exactly with each blade of the broadhead. If you can't line up each blade by simply twisting the broadhead tighter, you will have to heat up your inserts with a flame until you are able to freely move the broadhead. Once it's in line, allow time for the inserts to cool. On two- and four-blade models, you can either set the blades so that they ride horizontal or vertical to your sight picture. The arrows will fly straight either way.

Third, (and this is very excessive, but adds to my confidence) I place the arrow/broadhead combination on a flat surface and make sure that there are two feathers/vanes lying exactly flat and two blades lying exactly flat. If there is any slight variance, I adjust the broadhead so there is no visible difference.

Another method of tuning broadheads involves the precise calculations of a mathematician. Determining the Front of Center, or F.O.C., will reveal the aerodynamic properties of your arrows. Although there are exceptions, it is widely known and accepted that a forward balance weight of between 7 and 10 percent accompany the most aerodynamic arrows.

To determine the F.O.C. of your arrows, you must first measure the shaft from the tip of the broadhead to the end of the nock. Take this measurement and divide it by 2 to discover the arrow's center point (i.e. a 34 5/8-inch measurement -- the length of my arrows -- divided by 2 equals 17 5/16 inches). Be sure to mark this measurement with a felt tip pen.

Next, determine the balance point of the shaft, and mark its location. Divide the distance between the two marks by the overall length of the arrow and multiply by 100. (In this case the distance between the two marks of my 34 5/8-inch arrow equals 3 inches. Take 3 and divide it by 34 5/8 or 34.625 times 100, and it will equal a F.O.C. measurement of 8.66 percent). The general rule of thumb dictates that when the F.O.C. is above 10 percent, you should use a lighter broadhead; when it's below 7 percent, you should use a heavier broadhead.

In conclusion, I personally shoot a stout arrow to help alleviate problems with wind plane while shooting broadheads. I currently shoot 2317s out of my 78-pound bow. I feel that a heavier arrow will act as a better broadhead stabilizer than a lighter arrow. On the other hand, you will lose some speed shooting these types of arrows, but I feel the benefits outweigh the loss in speed. Accuracy is a lot more important to me than a faster shaft and the probability of inconsistent arrow flight.

Taking the time to determine your arrow's F.O.C. and properly aligning your broadheads can make a big difference. It could also make your setup more forgiving and produce better results. Try it for yourself. You may be surprised with the results.

For more information on bowhunting techniques and strategies go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Pre-Rut Whitetail Strategies

The temperatures at night start to graze the bottom of the mercury barrel. The amount of available sunlight decreases on a daily basis, and whitetail bucks slowly go mad with wanton desire. Rubs and scrapes appear on the edges of fields and along trails in high-interaction areas. Deer activity intensifies during daylight hours as a sudden influx of animals crossing highways and country roads at night increases. This stage of the whitetail breeding season is commonly referred to as the pre-rut.

Selecting the right stand location at this time of year can result in a close encounter of the monster buck kind. It’s an extremely exciting time to be in the deer woods. There simply is no better time to identify, isolate and exploit the common behavioral traits of mature whitetails bucks than during the pre-rut.

Although the timing of the rut fluctuates across North America -- the farther one travels south, the later the rut occurs -- the tactics described here will work throughout the entire range of the white-tailed deer.

We all know what happens during the rut. Bucks are running around like wild dogs in a helter-skelter manner, chasing every hot doe that crosses their path for miles. Sure you see a lot of bucks during this time of the year, but patterning those bucks and trying to close-in on one particular buck is a nightmare at best.

So why am I discussing pre-rut whitetail deer tactics in the middle of February you ask? Because there is no better time to be searching the woods for the sign that will lead you to a pre-rut stage monster buck this coming fall than right now!

Buck Lairs

Continuously monitoring and scouting various trail systems can lead to areas that big bucks prefer to roam. Virtually living solitary lives for most of the year, big whitetails often select the nastiest, most impenetrable piece of real estate in an area to call home. These areas are normally located in sections of timber where deer feel safe.

Cedar swamps, standing cornfields, briar thickets, brush-choked streambeds and pine plantations are all areas that offer protection and provide concealed daytime movement. For this reason, bucks will often establish their bedding areas -- or core areas -- nearby. Mature animals will routinely use this type of cover to move from one section of the woods to another.

Although bucks tend to let down their guard during the heat of the rut, safety is still their No. 1 concern throughout the pre-rut period. The odds of arrowing trophy deer are excellent in places where they feel secure. Identifying and studying these areas will earn you the opportunity to harvest a true wall hanger.

Setting up over trails that link feeding and bedding areas can still produce good results. Bucks will continue to use early-season trails, making short visits at food plots and crop fields as they slowly extend their range into neighboring territory. These excursions focus on assessing the breeding status of local doe concentrations, and storing energy for the rigors of the upcoming rut by quickly consuming high-energy chow.

In most cases, trophy bucks choose to travel on less-defined trails that skirt heavy cover. Rarely will you see a mature deer traveling through open timber or crossing an open field at this time. Keeping a low profile is standard operating procedure, but the one weakness bucks have in sustaining an anonymous lifestyle is the uncontrollable habit of leaving behind evidence of their existence. Accurately interpreting and processing this information can be a tremendous aid in devising a plan of attack.

Solving The Puzzle

The most difficult aspect of hunting trophy whitetails is interpreting deer sign. Developing this skill will take time and experience. By using a little creativity you can learn to evaluate and eventually exploit the sign that bucks yield in the wake of their travels.

Imagine interpreting and processing deer sign as constructing a giant jigsaw puzzle. The wooded terrain and natural food sources of a certain area make up the main body and outer edges of the “puzzle.” The final pieces include rubs, scrapes, trails and bedding areas. Normally the edges of a puzzle are the easiest to identify and arrange. The task becomes more challenging and reveals more of the impending scene as you work towards the center. Gathering bits of information and applying the acquired knowledge will lead to a specific strategy for solving the puzzle. In one case it may be a beautiful mountain vista or prominent landmark. In the other, a trophy buck.

I personally focus my attention on finding fresh rubs while on scouting forays. Rubs are one of the few distinguishing pieces of evidence that verifies antlered animals are frequenting a certain locale. From the time their antlers harden in early September until they cast them in late winter bucks will make rubs. Saplings, fence posts, power line poles and a wide variety of scrub brush fall victim to their abuse. Taking advantage of a buck’s natural tendency to create these spontaneous woodland sculptures is the answer to consistently taking bragging-size bucks during the pre-rut.

Scrapes are also an indication that bucks are working an area. Studies have shown that the majority of activity in and around a scrape generally occurs under the cover of darkness. Yearlings and immature bucks will visit scrapes on a regular basis, but mature animals tend to shy away from these locations during daylight hours. For this reason, rubs normally offer a more reliable means of plotting travel patterns than scrapes.

However, during a recent hunt in northern Missouri, I witnessed several large bucks visiting a primary scrape at various times of the day, including the first hours of daylight in the morning and the last few hours before sunset in late afternoon. One of the aforementioned bucks sported a massive, bone-white set of antlers whose rack would score somewhere in the high 160s as a 10-point typical. I had definite plans of harvesting this particular animal, but due to a perplexing attack of impatience I wound up shooting a lesser deer only to have the big 10 show up under my stand moments after harvesting the smaller buck.

In this case, I learned that there are simply no absolutes when it comes to bowhunting trophy whitetails. Anything can happen at anytime. An example of this -- as stated previously -- are the many studies that substantiate the frequency of nighttime scraping activity by mature deer. Yet those north Missouri bucks were brazenly working their scrapes during broad daylight without a care in the world.

So when pursuing trophy bucks with archery equipment it’s best to keep an open mind for every possible opportunity to be able to capitalize on the habits of the deer in your particular area. This type of mindset is yet another key to outwitting pre-rut whitetails.

Search and Enjoy

One of the most productive times to search for deer sign is immediately following the bow season. Another is during the spring. In the early stages of spring, the woods appear in basically the same condition as they did during the previous bow season. Rubs, scrapes and trails are exposed and are easily identifiable. This time of the year also offers yet another opportunity to legally harvest the prized headgear of virtually every buck in your hunting area. This highly enjoyable, early spring activity I’m referring to is widely known in the bowhunting ranks as “shed hunting”.

Hunting for shed antlers has become one of the fastest growing pastimes of an ever-increasing number of outdoor enthusiasts. Serious bowhunters, nature lovers and those who seek to profit from these complimentary woodland souvenirs are among the most recognized of today’s burgeoning legion of “bone collectors.” With a formal record book in current production that is solely dedicated to shed antlers, and a separate category that officially recognizes them as stand-alone trophies, the one-time leisure pursuit of a few adventurous individuals has now become an extremely competitive arena.

Scouring the woods for these naturally abandoned gems of the whitetail world definitely has its advantages for archers seeking trophy bucks. Finding a single shed -- or if you’re lucky enough -- a matched set of antlers will positively confirm that a certain buck has survived the hunting season. Also, simply knowing that a particular buck is still alive and well, and is residing in your hunting area on a consistent basis, will significantly increase your odds of killing him next bow season. Yet another reward for your efforts is the beautiful addition that shed antlers make to any trophy room. Attached to the skull plate or displayed on a mantle or laid out on deer hide covered coffee table makes no difference to me. Antlers are eye-popping works of art that are just plain cool.

Unfortunately, the exploration of every hunting spot prior to the season is not possible, leaving many pieces of the whitetail puzzle missing or out of place. In this case, you must switch gears and start to look at things from a different perspective. Scouting just prior to, or during the open season, is tricky business. One wrong move could ruin a spot for the entire year. Yet there is a way to get the drop on the resident deer herd with only marginal amounts of disturbance.

Rubs made the previous fall are the keys to locating hot spots in unfamiliar territory. Fresh rubs are much better, but one of the easiest ways to pinpoint productive stand sites in a new area or when the season is fast approaching is by tracking down old rubs. Old rubs provide valuable clues to unlocking preferred travel corridors. The logic behind this method relies on the habitual nature of deer. A spot that held bucks in the past will usually hold them in the future if the deer still feel secure while moving through the area.

Stand Placement

The location of rubs is more important than their size. A big rub is a relatively accurate measure of the quality of animal you are pursuing. On the other hand, big rubs can only tell you where a good buck was, not where he is going to be on a regular basis. Rubbing activity normally takes place under the cover of darkness along field edges. Bucks often stop and make rubs when exiting a field in the morning. Although the eye-catching fallout from these late-night calisthenics can be very impressive, don’t bank on seeing the buck during daylight hours at the edge of the field.

Prime locations are easily identifiable, but not as easy to find. It will take a fair amount of dedication and legwork to uncover areas where big bucks spend the majority of their time. Relying on rubs will eventually lead to the center of a buck’s bedroom. Bucks tend to mark the perimeter of their bedding areas with rubs. There will usually be a line of rubs leading into and another line leading away from a bedding area. Concentrate on clusters of rubs adjacent to heavy cover or a line of rubs leading into similar terrain. Setting up within close proximity of the trail, or trails, that link these rubs can lead to a close range shot at a good deer.

Be thoroughly discriminate in the process of stand selection. Set up 15 to 20 yards from the edge of the trail or line/cluster of rubs. Choose a tree that takes advantage of the prevailing wind direction. Make sure the thermals will blow your scent away from the deer and their expected route of travel. Place the stand in a spot that allows immature and non-antlered specimens of your quarry to pass by without detecting your presence. The goal is to catch the buck on his feet during legal shooting hours. To increase your odds of success, place a stand as close to the buck’s bedding area as possible without tipping your hand. Couple the location with fresh rut sign and sit tight.

To maintain a productive stand site, consider the following advice: Make sure to alter your entry and exit routes to and from your stand to keep the deer guessing. Try and keep noise to a bear minimum while in close proximity of the ambush site. Take every precaution necessary to avoid contaminating the area with human scent. Wash all hunting clothes in baking soda, or similar agent, and apply scent-eliminating sprays. Don’t over-hunt the stand or allow the deer to pattern your movements. Avoid touching low-hanging branches or saplings to reduce the risk of dispensing alarming odor on surrounding vegetation. And, [I, personally,] always wear a pair of Elimitrax or scent-free footwear to conceal [my] your footpath.

Going to these extremes will boost success rates. It will also prevent the contrasting reality of enduring long, unproductive vigils of babysitting vacant woodlots during the pre-rut.

For more whitetail bowhunting techniques and strategies go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Hunting Alberta Black Bears

My role as the founder, owner and President of the United Outfitters Association affords me the luxury of visiting many of the world’s best outfitters. It also provides me the opportunity to assess the daily routine of their respective operations. Exploring new country and hunting in diverse locales is also an added bonus of my chosen profession.

During one of my recent adventures, I came across an outfitter that deserves mention. In the latter stages of May a few years ago, I visited Harvey McNalley’s Alberta-based bear hunting operation for a little R&R and bear hunting.

Harvey’s bear operation at the time of my visit was rather special, as he was one of the few outfitters in northern Alberta who maintained a camp requiring air travel. A Beach 99 and a Havilland Beaver float plane are the two means of transportation.

Located 125 air miles from Fort McMurray, Alberta, the aptly named McNalley Lake is home to Harvey’s main guest camp. Nestled at the bottom of a gently sloping, jack pine-studded hillside, the cabins overlook the crystal-clear waters and sandy shorelines of the secluded lake. Three spike camps are also available by request for the more adventurous bear hunter.

My particular excursion began with a long drive from my then home state of Wisconsin. After nearly 30 hours of driving, I arrived in the picturesque city of Fort McMurray, Alberta during an early morning drizzle. I checked into a hotel and met with the company liaison later that afternoon. After being introduced to the rest of the crew and making a run to the grocery store for a few can’t-do-without supplies, we settled in to our rooms for the night. The next day we hopped a flight from Fort McMurray to Fort Chipewyan, Alberta.

From Fort Chipewyan, we were flown into camp via a short float plane jaunt. I flew into camp on the first flight with Pennsylvania natives Tom McAndrews, Allen Strickler and Mike Siddons. The second group of hunters, which included Jim Parrish, Stephanie Smith, Curt Chesley and his son, Justin, were all residents of the state of Tennessee.

After landing, we unpacked our gear from the plane and were given a brief introduction to the area. We then separated into three groups. Mike and Allen headed out on ATVs to a remote spike camp. Following suit, Jim and Stephanie hopped aboard the Beaver for another short flight to their own spike camp, leaving the three remaining bear chasers and me behind to experience wilderness life from the main camp.

Success would come early in the hunt.

On the first afternoon afield, Tom McAndrews killed a beautiful cinnamon-phase bear with one shot from his twelve-gauge slug gun. I heard Tom shoot from nearly three miles away as I quietly sat in my tree stand. The fatal shot echoed across the pike-infested waters of Rusty’s Lake and softly tickled my ears. It was 8:20 p.m. He later said that he had watched a big black boar feed at the bait barrel for over two hours before an even bigger cinnamon-colored bear entered the scene. Steadying his crosshairs on the bear’s midsection, Tom squeezed the trigger and was rewarded with a bear that possessed a perfect spring coat and a hide that would square out at 7 feet even.

On the same evening, Jim Parrish harvested two very respectable bears. One of the black boars squared 6 foot 2-inches and the other bear measured 7 foot 2. After Jim dropped the smaller boar in its tracks from 15 yards with one shot from his rifle, a second bear appeared from the shadows to investigate the ruckus. Responding to his guide’s frantic command, Jim killed the second boar as it was attempting to drag off his first bear. Adding to the first night’s success, Allen Strickler raised the tally by taking a big 7 foot 3-inch black boar with a single shot from his high-powered rifle.

The second evening resulted in one nice black being taken by Stephanie Smith. A well-placed shot from her 30-06 anchored the 6 foot 10-inch boar after a wavering death-sprint of only 30 yards. Stephanie displayed an amazing amount of patience by allowing the bear to enter and exit the bait area several times before it presented her with an effective shot angle.

The third evening of the hunt tested the steel nerves of 15 year old high school sophomore Justin Chesley. He was the hero of the day, taking a huge 7 foot 4-inch boar and a 6 foot 5-inch sow. Justin shot the sow while en route to his stand location. His guide, Shane, spotted the feeding bear and led Justin on a thrilling stalk attempt. Easing to within 50 yards, Justin raised his gun and instantly dropped the bear at the thunderous crack of his rifle’s deadly report. Sneaking up to the downed bruin was an adventure all in itself. Little did they know that another bear was lurking nearby.

As Justin and Shane were slowly approaching the fatally-wounded animal, another bear suddenly popped into view. Thinking that it was the same bear Justin had just shot, Shane barked at Justin to shoot again. With another round from his trusty rifle, Justin collected the largest bear of the week. Facial scars and several bite marks on his backside indicated that the big seven and a half foot boar was quite the scrapper. Needless to say, Justin’s father, Curt, was one proud papa that day.

After seeing Justin’s two bears, Curt was determined not to be outdone by his 15 year old son. With only a few days left to hunt and the thought of being skunked hanging over his head, Curt shot two bears on the fifth night out. The first boar was a black juvenile and the second bear had a multi-phase hide that ranged in color from light blonde to rusty cinnamon. Both animals were shot within 15 minutes of each other. Although he acquired the same number of bears as did his son, Curt made me promise to never reveal their size. I agreed to his request seeing as though he suffered enough humiliation after a tape measure indicated that Justin’s bears were substantially larger in size. All kidding aside, Curt was not ashamed of his accomplishment and neither were any of us.

By the end of the week, two more big black boars were taken by Mike Siddons. One of the bruisers measured 7 foot 3 and the other 6 foot 8. With two more animals added to the meat pole, the stats confirmed that 11 bears had been taken by seven hunters. After doing the rest of the math, we discovered that 50 percent of the bears taken during the week squared over seven feet!

All in all, it was a great hunt. However, Lady Luck chose to frown on yours truly and I wound up not taking a bear. I saw bears every evening and had several opportunities to arrow a true trophy, but simply failed to capitalize. Needless to say, my trusty Hoyt bow and I will be returning to Harvey’s wilderness camp in the coming years to have another go at a big northern Alberta black bear.

For more information on hunting Alberta black bears go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Selecting a Hunting Outfitter

Selecting a reputable outfitter in this day and age can be a shot in the dark. Just one look in the back of any hunting magazine can provide the names and telephone numbers of literally hundreds of outfitting operations. Other sources such as weekend sport shows, feature magazine articles, government directories, professional hunting consultants and television programs that highlight sport hunting can provide even more. When faced with so many outfitters to choose from, the question that usually follows is: Where do I begin?

That’s simple. You must begin at the beginning. Sometimes a person can get lost in all the excitement. It’s easy to overlook important details during the early stages of planning a hunting adventure. In order to select an outfitter that will best suit your needs, you must first take a few things into consideration. Here are a few questions and suggestions to ponder before deciding to spend your hard-earned money on an outfitted hunt.

What type of hunting adventure are you interested in?

The ease or severity of a hunting trip varies from location to location. The type of terrain encountered during a hunt generally depends on the animal of interest. For example, waiting patiently in a tree stand for a black bear to show up at a bait station in Alberta is quite different than chasing a bull elk across the mountains of Colorado or New Mexico.

One’s physical condition can greatly affect the outcome of a hunt. Be certain to choose a hunting trip that is compatible with your personal capabilities. If you insist on hunting an animal that inhabits physically demanding terrain, start working out at a local gym well before your scheduled date of departure. Couple your workout regimen with an aerobic activity, such as running or climbing a Stairmaster to build up your stamina.

Terrain is just one consideration. Another factor that plays a significant role in the outcome of a hunt is the weather. Outfitters cannot guarantee favorable weather conditions during your hunt. The weather can be unpredictable and an unforeseen deterrent to your success if not taken into account. Temperatures in November can easily reach -20 degrees Fahrenheit on a whitetail hunt in Saskatchewan. Or, a deluge of rain can swamp an Ontario moose hunt. Ask about the region’s normal weather pattern and what to expect during the course of your stay. Be sure you are mentally and physically capable of enduring any weather condition that may arise. If you simply cannot tolerate a harsh environment, it would be in your best interest to search for an outfitter stationed in an area that has a mild to moderate weather climate.

Note: Consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program.


Is the outfitter qualified to locate the game animal of interest?

Here is where a lot of sportsmen fail to do the necessary homework to ensure a quality outdoor adventure. One way to determine if an outfitter is qualified is to ask questions. You have to ask a lot of questions. It’s better to ask too many questions than not enough.

Will the outfitter use horses? How much riding will you be doing? Will you hunt on public or private land? Will the outfitter take care of the meat and hide of your animal? How experienced are the guides? How long has the outfitter been in business? What is his state or provincial license number? Has the outfitter ever lost his license due to a game violation conviction? Is the outfitter properly insured?

These are just a few of the questions that you should ask when inquiring with an outfitter. Seeking a reputable outfitter is similar to playing private detective. You have to investigate every conceivable angle to be sure you are getting your money’s worth.

To further assist your inquiry, ask for a reference list of successful clients. Also, ask for a list of unsuccessful clients. Call as many of them as you can afford. They should be able to answer any question about the outfitter that may be of concern because they have actually “been there and done that,” so to speak. Another source of valuable information are Game and Fish Departments. These state and provincial agencies provide information on outfitters regarding license status, grievances, questionable business practices and convictions of game violations.

What about kill percentages and success rates?

Don’t be fooled by all of the statistical mumbo jumbo some outfitters like to throw at you. All of this fast-talking rhetoric is a ploy they use to divert your attention away from the more important details. In my opinion, kill percentages and success rates mean absolutely nothing, especially if you are seeking a trophy animal. As an example, let’s examine the work history of two hypothetical outfitting operations to get a better understanding of why I feel this way.

Outfitter A has been in business for only a couple of years. He owns a first-class operation and has the optimum amount of quality acreage to produce huge bears. Through some bad luck and a few unfortunate blunders -- mainly due to client error and inclement weather conditions -- several of his hunters failed to take home a bear. As a result, his kill percentage has suffered.

Outfitter B has been in business for 15 years and boasts a 100% success rate. He routinely shies away from mentioning that his operation has less than desirable accommodations and only a small parcel of land to hunt. On the other hand, he openly declares that he offers less expensive hunts than the majority of his competition and his clients take home bears on a regular basis. What he fails to mention is that less than one percent of the bears taken from his property have the potential to reach trophy size.

Now, if you were looking for a hunt based on the aforementioned information that provides the best odds of producing a trophy bear, which outfitter would better suit your needs? My advice would be Outfitter A.

Failing to do any research, many sportsmen booking a trophy hunt for the first time would choose Outfitter B due to his less expensive rate and an advertised kill percentage of 100%. Kill percentages and success rates can be extremely misleading. Do your homework or you’ll wind up coming home empty-handed or worse yet, disappointed with an animal that you had no intentions of harvesting in the first place.

Are you looking for a trophy or will any animal suffice?

If harvesting any animal will suffice and you rival the likes of Magnum P.I., finding a quality outfitter shouldn’t be all that difficult. On the other hand, you will have to dig a little deeper if you are interested solely in a trophy. Good outfitters are like 200-inch whitetails. They are hard to find. You have to do a fair amount of research in order to find a quality outfit that consistently kills trophy animals.

A good source of information for locating trophy areas is the official record books of the Pope & Young and the Boone and Crockett Clubs. These publications list record book animals taken in North America by bow and rifle, respectively. Each trophy animal has a separate listing with revealing details. The location of the kill, how the animal was taken, i.e., a bow or gun and the name of the hunter are all logged. You can narrow down a “hot spot” by checking the areas that produce the most top-end animals. Combine an area that produces a disproportionate number of trophy animals with a reputable outfitter that can lead you to them, and you’ll be in business.

Don’t forget to consult with a good taxidermist prior to your trip. He or she can provide some important recommendations for keeping your animal intact during the journey home.

How much can I reasonably spend on a hunt?

Determining how much to spend on a hunt can be hard to gauge. In this situation, as in many others, my motto is: “You usually get what you pay for.” Dollar figures alone should not measure the value and appeal of a particular hunting excursion. The attitude of always striving to get the “best deal” can lead to disaster in most circumstances. For many hunters cost becomes the overriding concern, and quality takes a backseat. It goes back to the old saying, “If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.” Of course I don’t necessarily advocate booking hunts with only the most expensive outfitters either. Great deals are out there, but finding them takes time, effort and a healthy amount of legwork.

Searching for outfitters who are in the early stages of establishing their clientele can be very appealing. Some offer super “first time” deals. And, many of these “newbie” outfitters produce amazing results. However, this is a risky proposition. These outfitters have no client base and are willing to do just about anything to book a hunt, so proceed cautiously.

This all sounds pretty confusing doesn’t it? It can be if you fail to do the necessary research. As a personal safeguard, accept the fact that there simply are no guarantees to pursuing wild, free-ranging animals with an outfitter and act accordingly. No matter how much you spend on a hunt or how long an outfitter has been in business, you still need to be careful. It’s a “buyer-beware” type of market. For every reputable outfitter there are at least four dishonest ones who are willing to con you out of your money. Before you book any hunt in the future, make sure you do your homework.

Keep this in mind and remember to: Determine what type of hunt is best suited to your physical abilities. Ask a bunch of questions, and then ask some more questions. Call as many references as possible, both successful and unsuccessful. Decide whether you desire a trophy animal or if any animal will suffice. And lastly, seriously consider how much you can reasonably spend on a hunting trip without winding up on the street at the end of it all, and realize there are no absolutes when it comes to hunting big game animals. By following these guidelines, you will be better prepared to experience a quality outfitted hunt and quite possibly harvest the trophy of a lifetime.

For more information on selecting a hunting outfitter go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.

Bowhunting: Off-Season Practice

The sound of pounding hooves and breaking branches shatters the early-morning silence. A resonating crack of antler against antler startles you awake from a state of mild oblivion, sending a jolt of sensatory lighting down your spine. Slowly turning around in your stand, you struggle to witness the ferocious woodland brawl.

Momentarily screened by an endless jungle of underbrush, you see a flash of two giant silhouettes in the distance. Mud and ground clutter fly in all directions – the heat of battle ensues. As you watch in amazement, the handle of your bow becomes a helpless squeeze toy. Brief departures of reality assault your mind as you sit in agitated-silence, waiting for the climatic end.

Finally, one of the antlered-gladiators submits defeat and the two combatants part ways. As the victor continues his assault on a nearby sapling, you somehow remember the grunt tube hanging from your neck. You purse your trembling lips to the reed-end of the call and force yourself to exhale. In an attempt to imitate the guttural sounds of a rut-crazed whitetail, you nearly hyperventilate. Without hesitation, the huge buck lifts his head and struts his way towards your stand. At 18 yards, you stop the multi-tined monster with a soft whistle as you reach full draw. Lining up your 20-yard pin just below the buck’s midsection, you let the string drop from your fingers – and miss!

Although the events above are completely fictitious, you probably know someone who has experienced the heartache of a missed shot. It may even be very similar to one of your own moments of despair.

I know how it feels to miss a shot. If you have hunted with archery equipment for any length of time, you probably have felt the same frustration. It’s even worse when your sights are set on a trophy buck and a well-intended arrow fails to hit its mark. So, what is the solution? What can be done to avoid a psychological meltdown at the moment of truth? I believe it all starts with a serious off-season practice regimen.

Backyard Basics

The summer months provide an excellent chance to hone your archery skills. The days are long and the weather is mild and inviting. If you want to better your chances at harvesting a big buck this fall, now is the time to get motivated. Here are some basic techniques that I use to prepare for those once-in-a-lifetime shot opportunities:

One area that is critical to success is shooting form. Your ability to achieve consistent accuracy will suffer without it. There are five areas of shooting form that will be addressed:

1) Anchor Point -- Make sure you come to a full draw at the exact location every time. Choosing an “anchor point” is the first step. An anchor point is the location where your shooting hand is “anchored” each time you come to full draw. This is usually the corner of the mouth for finger-shooters or along the jaw line for release-shooters. You may adjust your anchor point to compliment your particular shooting style.

2) Stance -- How you stand while shooting a bow will dramatically affect the flight of the arrow. You should stand with a semi-open stance with your feet pointing slightly away from the face of your target – or at a 45-degree angle. If your toes point directly at the target, pulling your bow is difficult and awkward. It will also force you to shoot “around,” or straight away from your body. On the other hand, if your feet are pointed too far away, the angle of aim will cause severe string-contact with your bow arm. Be conscious of your stance during practice sessions and it will soon become second nature.

3) Aim -- Aiming a bow, whether sights are used or not, requires good hand-eye coordination and a high level of concentration. To encourage pinpoint accuracy, try to “pick a spot” while choosing a point of aim. When shooting at a hay bale or similar target, focus on a certain spot rather than an “area.” Continue this habit in the field when targeting your quarry. Draw a bead on an exact spot, such as a distinguishing mark or a tuft of hair. Concentrate on driving your field points and broadheads through the point of aim while on the practice range. Repetition of this exercise will train your mind to pick a spot on game animals.

4) Release -- In my opinion, the act of releasing an arrow is responsible for letting more trophy bucks walk than any other element of the shot sequence. And, it is certainly an archer’s most difficult discipline to skillfully execute on a consistent basis. Once an arrow leaves the bow there is no way to stop it. Mature whitetails will usually provide only one shot opportunity. Therefore, I try to make every shot opportunity count no matter if I am driving arrow after arrow on the practice range or sitting in my favorite stand.

Experimentation with different release methods is the only way to accurately shoot a glove or finger tab. Some experts say to “roll the string” from your fingers while others say that “snapping the string,” is the way to go. Trial and error will be the deciding factors.
In an attempt to prevent inconsistent arrow flight, many hunters exchange their gloves and finger tabs for a mechanical release. If this doesn’t solve your particular problem, it may be deeper-rooted, such as target-panic, an ill-tuned bow or a severe case of buck fever. If you find yourself languishing in the misery of erratic arrow flight it may be in your best interest to seek professional instruction. Remember: Time spent on the practice range is the only way to develop a smooth release.

5) Follow Through -- The last part of the shot sequence requires a small amount of concentration to pull off. Finishing the shot, or “following through,” will allow you to achieve higher scores on the 3D range and enjoy shorter blood trails. Many archers fail to attain consistent accuracy as a result of not developing this skill. Some flinch at the moment of release or try to watch the arrow as it flies. Both of these bad habits will cause arrows to stray off target.

The technique used to tighten groups and make double-lung shots on game animals is relatively easy to learn. Upon releasing the string, practice holding the bow steady until the arrow hits its mark. Or continue to hold your pin on target until the arrow strikes, if you use sights. You will see a dramatic increase in accuracy, if done correctly.

Mind Games

Shooting a bow requires both physical and mental self-control. I once read that it takes 80 percent mental ability and only 20 percent physical ability to shoot a bow accurately. Some believe that the mind has even more of an influence. Without an intimate knowledge of body mechanics, we tend to classify the act of shooting a bow as a physical feat more than a systematic thought process of the mind.

The mind is a complex instrument. It has the ability to perform a variety of complex tasks in milliseconds. Yet the simplest actions can become instant nightmares. Take public speaking for instance. Sometimes words and sentences flow easily from one topic to another, and then a severe case of lockjaw occurs. Why does that seem to happen at the worst possible moment? Pressure. That one word sums up why most people fail to perform in intense situations – like attempting a shot at a monster buck. So what will counteract the self-defeating effect of one’s mind?

A variety of methods can assist struggling shooters, but one of the quickest and easiest to learn is “visualization.” Visualization only requires a little imagination and a genuine desire to improve. Many successful archers utilize visualization techniques to train their minds. Frequently rehearsing an imaginary shot scenario from beginning to end is a popular method of visualization. The “if you can see it, you can do it” mentality exemplifies this practice. Take some time out of your day and try it for yourself. You may be surprised with the results. Heck, you may even be contacting your taxidermist at the end of the season.
As mentioned previously, well-developed hand-eye coordination is necessary to enjoy success with archery equipment. Without this ability, estimating distance, aiming and shooting would be nearly impossible. Training the mind and body to perform these tasks on demand is what separates those who score on a regular basis from those who continually collect tag soup recipes.

Judging distance is one of the most problematic aspects of shooting a bow accurately. In most cases, human error is to blame. Choosing the “wrong” pin, or simply estimating the distance incorrectly, causes the majority of missed shots.

The introduction of electronic rangefinders has eliminated much of the guesswork. But, even with these modern-day advancements, judging distance is still a challenge. Try this simple exercise for improving your ability to mentally calculate unknown distances.
Practice “guesstimating” the range to animate and inanimate objects throughout the day. Pick a “target,” such as a stationary vehicle, your pet or a fence post and estimate its range. Then step it off to see how well you did. With a little practice, the ability to effectively judge distance will become less of a test.

The glaring reality of hunting with archery equipment is that missed shots happen. It seems that no one is immune to this malady. But, there is a way to reduce the frequency of your moments of humility – practice during the off-season.

For more information on Bowhunting techniques go to the United Outfitters Association - FORAHUNT.com web site.