welp, the first annual Beouf hog hunt happened this past weekend. I will let everyone tell about their own experience there and share whatever pics they have.
Overall, the hunt was a blast. There were 12 tradganger's there throughout the weekend and a LOT of good food, camp fire, and great times! Of those 12 guys, there was one from Alaska and one from Ontario. Though no animals were harmed in the making of this weekend, there were several hogs seen and a few shots fired, and we had an absolute blast! I think everyone saw a hog except Pat and Darren(he is cursed)!
As you have seen from pictures of different areas at wild things, etc, the water levels have gone crazy and are limiting the hunting ground, the same happened in our location. In this particular block of woods the woods are typically 1 mile deep with thickets all on the back border. Due to the water level, the widest wooded area was around 700 yards deep, under half of what it usually is. We just did not see hogs like I have typically seen, in the past! There was one pack of 10 seen, but that's usually a small pack, in my opinion. I have seen some packs out there that ran close to 40 pigs, and those were no where to be seen.
Hopefully the guys will chime in soon with whatever pictures and stories they have. Can't wait to share a camp fire with these guys again next year.
I got there a day late and didn't get into the pigs, but saw a lot of sign. But... the time killed was awesome!
I was able to see some of my old hunting buddies and make some new ones. Thanks for getting this hunt organized Daniel.
Daniel is correct, in that I am seemingly cursed in seeing hogs while hunting. Out of ten or twelve different outings, I've yet to catch a glimpse of one with the exception of a quick scouting trip with Randy (crittergetter) when I didn't take a bow. :knothead:
HOWEVER......I am beyond blessed to have shared many camps with many Trad Gangers over the years. In fact, this hunt in Louisiana is the eighth state I've been able to hunt with other TG'ers. Even though the species and terrain may differ, the incredibly high quality of the individuals is consistent.
Daniel put together a great affair in which the early rain and cold temps could not dampen anyone's spirits. His infectious and youthful exuberance led the group admirably. And along with his local buddies Joe and Cade, it is gratifying to see that the future of trad hunting has some capable standard bearers.
It would be very easy to list everyone by name and expound upon their contributions and character. But it would also be very long and would need to be sent off to a publisher for binding. Suffice it to say that every single person contributed greatly to the hunt, the atmosphere, the campfire and the food table.
If I have to be "cursed" by not seeing pigs in order to share camps with men like these, then bring it on! Much gratitude to Daniel, his father-in-law Larry for sharing his camp and to the entire crew for making this a wonderful weekend!
Although I didn't stay the weekend, I too had a great time meeting the people there. It's always good to share a camp with my good buddy Kip, if he's involved, you can bet WE WILL EAT WELL.
These TGer's make you feel like you have known them for years. Had a blast and looking forward to this being an annual event. Thanks Daniel for putting this on. I'd like to see photos of what I missed.
BTW, I do think Hackbow is cursed!
Sounds like I missed a great time! Hope someone posts some pics!
Congrats to all on a great hunt.
Wayne
I echo all the thanks to Daniel for lining up this hunt. It was a great time with like minded hunters and I thoroughly enjoyed every part of it. So I guess I will share from that perspective-the different parts of the entire hunt.
Preparation
Like many of you the hunt starts way before arrival at camp and I was excited about this hunt from the time I committed to going. I have bumped into pigs on my way out while hunting deer on a WMA but I had never purposely targeted them, spot and stalk, before. Daniel had suggested leafy wear so I broke out some stuff I had not used in years. I also had not tent camp in years so I was digging into all my old elk hunting gear to get ready. I hunt mostly alone and had not hunted with a group of guys in quite some time. This hunt really reinforced that although hunting solo has its benefits, there is really nothing that compares with sharing a hunting camp with good folks.
Camping
As we got closer I was impressed by everyone's willingness to chip in and do what they could to make the hunt come together. From a food perspective folks just jumped in and committed to providing what they could and it was over the top! Breakfast Burrito's every morning with hot coffee, Rice and Gravy, Gumbo, Smoked Wild Pig, Sandwich fixing's galore, Hog and Deer Chili, and the best snack you could imagine - Smoked Salmon from Alaska! :thumbsup:
Although the rain made the campsite kinda sloppy we got into a routine that seem to work for everyone. We had a cooking/eating area and a great fire every night and morning. It was cold the whole time and Marty from Alaska and Joe from Canada were able to use their Alaskan and Canadian hunting clothes down in Louisiana. Go figure!!
The most frequent way that you saw Marty's Smoked Salmon - almost gone!!!
(http://i.imgur.com/0sj510a.jpg) (http://imgur.com/0sj510a)
Smoked Wild Hog!!!
(http://i.imgur.com/04SxXQs.jpg) (http://imgur.com/04SxXQs)
A bunch of hog hunters chewing the fat!
(http://i.imgur.com/84FC9Aw.jpg) (http://imgur.com/84FC9Aw)
Marty, Pat, Randy and Darren.
(http://i.imgur.com/2bDvEmL.jpg) (http://imgur.com/2bDvEmL)
Kip and Joe, who shared a Bear Camp before, reunited in Louisiana
(http://i.imgur.com/rQNxiKH.jpg) (http://imgur.com/rQNxiKH)
The Hunt
One thing you find out really quick around Daniel is that the dude LOVES to hunt. I had went up early to set up the canopy's and tarps and Marty showed up soon after. When Daniel got there it wasn't long until he says, "I can't take this anymore! Let's go hunting!"
The rain that would last all of Thursday night was coming down but we slipped our rain gear on and headed out. The camp site is literally 50 yards from the WMA. Daniel and Marty went down one trail and I went ahead to another one after getting some directions from Daniel.
It was perfect stalking conditions with noise from the rain fall and the wet forest floor. I went about 1/2 mile and all of sudden I see two deer standing 50 yards ahead. The biggest doe was about 135 lbs. and she did not know what the other doe had gotten up for so she wasn't looking my way. When she turned her head I side stepped behind a big oak tree and nocked an arrow. I then kept the tree between me and the 2 deer. It looked like they could not see me but about 5 steps into the deal the smaller doe busted and took the big one with her. It was really cool to get that close on two deer in open woods though. I was pumped up !!
Another 1/4 mile and I saw flood waters in the woods. Daniel had said the flooding was serious and he was right. I started making my way to the waters edge and I was almost there when hundreds of ducks took off. I have never seen that many ducks in flooded timber before and it was a sight to see. Mallards and Wood Ducks were everywhere and I think they were eating the floating acorns in the newly flooded timber.
I made a circle back toward camp and passed by a hog trap in the woods real close to camp. It was a trap that Daniel's Grandpa put in the woods by permit with the WMA and the next morning their would be 7 pigs in that same trap I had walked by. When they went get those hogs out of that trap - well let's just say there was a whole lot of squealing goin on!!
The Hunt - Friday Morning
We ate a good supper and more guys started arriving throughout Thursday night. Pat from Oklahoma, Randy and Darren from Texas, Cade from right down the road... Because the rain was coming down still, some opted to just sleep in their vehicles but we finally all hit the sack hoping daylight would bring clearing skies as forecast.
Friday morning, Myself, Pat and Randy went down the trail I went down the night before and we split up at different points to cover more ground. About 2 hours into the hunt I was near some flooded timber and was going to take my pack off to see where I was on my GPS. I no sooner turned to unsnap my pack and I hear splashing behind me. I turned to see an 80 lb. pig running in my direction.
I grab my bow while he is closing the distance and turned every time he would get behind a tree. He had obviously been spooked and was heading somewhere but that somewhere seemed to be coming right at me. About 40 yards out he started veering away and then circled back the way he came without offering a shot. I started following him hoping he would slow down but he just kept running. I stalked in his direction but never saw him again. I was excited to have seen my first pig of the hunt and was hoping he would run into one of the other guys.
Sounds like a great time was had by all. The camaraderie is always worth the trip when trad hunters are involved. I will try to make this hunt one day. :archer:
The Hunt - Friday Afternoon
Randy, Marty and I went to a place called Wallace Road to hunt. It was so flooded that you could see open water 100 yards from the main road.
Wallace Road
(http://i.imgur.com/JwBZu7g.jpg) (http://imgur.com/JwBZu7g)
After discussing strategy we split up and I took the waters edge within the timber. All of the sign up to this point had been covered by the rising water in the woods so any sign found would be fresh and about 250 yards into my walk I came upon an oak tree with some serious rooting sign under it. I slowed down and began to intently watch ahead of me. 30 yards further and I see 2 big black hogs in the distance. I guess them in the 175lb range and they are feeding away from me. The wind is making some noise and it is consistently in my face. Daniel had said only move when they are moving or eating and that's what I was doing as I close to about 50 yards. I notice something about 40 yards out and its about 20 piglets! :)
These guys were about 10 lbs. a piece and running around feeding, butting heads with one another; all kinds of stuff I had never seen before. After a few minutes the 2 hogs started moving off and the piglets ran to them. Then they both laid down and the piglets started nursing! Very cool and a perfect opportunity to close the distance!
Now I know some guys might have backed off at that point seeing the piglets nursing but I am not one of those guys so I crept ahead. The hogs got up and went back to feeding and ended up under another oak tree in the midst of some short bushes which blocked their view somewhat. I crept to 25 yards with the aid of a big oak between me and them undetected, waiting for a shot through the brush. :bigsmyl:
One hog started working her way into a small gap with just a couple small branches. The other pig decided to go around the back of her and circle back toward me. When the first hog began to feed into the gap I moved my bow arm up and the other pig noticed the movement. She stared at me for about 15 seconds and went back toward the other pig disturbed but not spooked. :pray: The guys had told me they were good at picking up movement and they were right.
The first hog stepped into the gap so I drew, shot and watched my arrow hit a small branch and deflect up over the hogs back. A loud whack and they were off running away from me. Using my bino's I saw them about 100 yards ahead start to slow down so I was hoping for another chance. As I neared the location of the hogs when I shot I saw what made the racket. My arrow lodged in a tree. :(
I was disappointed with the miss but I had just made my first stalk on a wild hog which was cool and a memory I will not soon forget.
I crept up further to find the hogs out in the open flooded timber just standing there. When I looked through the bino's I noticed the piglets on a hump of dirt about 20 yards from the hogs. I decided to wait and see if they would come out to feed again but after an hour they were still standing there looking in my direction. I was about 60 yards away from them at this point.
I backed off and circled into the woods and waited another 1/2 hour at a distance that I could only see them through my binoculars but they never came out so I decided to stalked ahead and see if I could locate another hog. Saw some more sign but no more hogs as my Friday hunt came to a close. Three hogs spotted and all of them were where the water met the dry woods. Maybe a pattern was developing.
Keep it going, hog whisperer.
The Hunt - Saturday Morning
Some of the guys decided to go hit some new area so I went along. Joe, Kip and myself took an area to hunt and worked our way east and then turned back north into the wind spread out about 70-100 yards from each other. Joe was down by the water and we were all hoping we would cross paths with some hogs. We worked some good looking territory and ended up in a briar thicket that looked more like deer cover than hog but seeing as I don't know anything about hog hunting... We stalked through the thicket as quiet as possible and a nice deer jumped up ahead of Kip with its white tail flagging.
We hit a bayou that we couldn't cross so we joined up to strategize. We used the opportunity to grab a quick bite and a drink. It turned into an enjoyable visit about armadillos (which Joe and Kip had just seen)and various other subjects that reminded me how neat it is to hunt with other men who enjoy this lifestyle. So we did what any group of crazy Trad Hunters would do..
We took a selfie!!
(http://i.imgur.com/2JQTfMA.jpg) (http://imgur.com/2JQTfMA)
Well, after our "siesta" we decided to get back in the action and started working our way through some new area. Joe stuck to the waters edge and Kip and I got out in the woods a bit. We decided to just meet back at the truck at 2 pm so that everyone could hunt at their own pace and explore.
A little while later I see Kip coming my way and turns out some more flooding had pinched him in toward where I was which was great because it seemed that near the water was where we needed to be. Kip and I were walking along trying to head in a direction that would get us back to the road we had walked in on when Kip stopped and looked intently toward the flooded timber. He then said it was a bird he saw but about 10 feet further I looked and saw a pack of black hogs running parallel to us. Well, we hit the deck where we were standing and 6 big black hogs in the 125-150 lb. range are running through the water. It looked like they were going to just pass us at about 60-80 yards out so I decided to start grunting at them with my mouth. :goldtooth:
Like being there! Keep it coming Todd
I don't have alot to add as far as hunting stories. I didn't think that I would get there until friday morning, but was able to drive throught the rain on thursday and get my tent setup during a break in the rain. Didn't get rained on durng the hunt, and temps were cool, but not terribly so. I was one of the unlucky ones that didn't run into any hogs. The habitat looked great, but the high waters seemed to have the patterns shifted a little. The second morning of the hunt I ran into a good amount of relatively fresh hog sign, which mostly followed the water edge, but Darren and Marty got pinched into a narrow funnel with me, and I knew that Randy had already hit the area as well, so I backed out and looked for a place to cross the water, but really there was not way. I ended up driving home on sunday, in hopes of chasing pigs at my house. I sat by a feeder, but nothing came in by the time that I headed back to the house.
I will say this much. This was a really good group of guys at camp. A real pleasure to hunt with. And there was a ton of great food that people brought. Everyone raved about the breakfast burritos that came from Texas, and the gumbo the Louisiana guys fixed up, and then there was the slow cooked pork from Daniel's hog. Nobody went hungry, that is for sure. I brought a pot of venison/pork chili, but I don't think it was as much of a hit as what the others brought. I did get to bust out the RADA wheel sharpener to show a few guys how I use it, so hopefully that made up for something.
Looks like a great time!!!
Bisch
A few other things to mention. Some of you probably don't know it, but Daniel is a very good shot, so if you see any kills at longer distance, it won't be a matter of luck. And his Hill Country Bow and Centaur shoot almost silently. I am sure that it is partially due to the strings that he makes. I saw them, and they look to be high quality work. Even though I know that there weren't any hogs killed during this hunt, everyone seemed to have a great time, and anyone that has these guys in camp in the future will have a great time.
Todd really covered that days hunt much more eloquent than I could and the other hunts I made did not produce any sightings.After we missed the hogs we seperated and with all the water I had to keep adjusting and ended walking my butt off(got lost) but came out by the trucks.Fun hunt met as always a great bunch of trad hunters from all over ,everyone just meeting talking about past hunts.I have always enjoyed meeting bowhunters the best people like Joe Caba who I met at another hunt and I was lucky to have him at my house this time and my tent.I really don't remember how long since I tent camped maybe 20 years but was fine for an old fart.
Pat(pdk), that chili was good! What you didn't notice was all the spoons full that were "tasted" while we were waiting for it to heat up!
So after our encounter with those 6 hogs we met back at the truck and somebody did get a pig but I will let them tell that story.
That afternoon Joe and I went back to a specific area he located when we were split up that morning that had fresh sign. I'll let him tell that story but here is one picture of a lake slap dab in the middle of the woods that I ended up near. The old sunken boat in the foreground was made out of wood and looked to be a home made boat. The bow is facing me, and the transom is above water behind that. If that old boat could talk....
(http://i.imgur.com/PIxp4zQ.jpg) (http://imgur.com/PIxp4zQ)
The Hunt - Sunday Morning
The next morning I just had to go and try something I had been thinking about since I looked at this area on Google earth. We were right next to Horseshoe Lake and there is an island in the middle of the lake. I had brought my kayak just in case and decided I would go check it out. Daniel told me he didn't think it would have hogs but.....
Daniel was right. I was in there a very short time and although the cover was exactly like what we were seeing hogs in I found no sign. I quickly came back across the lake, loaded up the trailer, dropped it off at the camp and drove to the area we had seen the 6 hogs at. I did jump a deer but no more hogs for me.
Horseshoe Lake
(http://i.imgur.com/HwJCtwu.jpg) (http://imgur.com/HwJCtwu)
Departure
Well, the time had come to pack up and head home but when I got back to camp Darren and Barry were there. I was fixing to get busy packing and this tremendous thought came to me. I looked at Darren and said, "Why don't we close out this hunt with some OREO cookies and some cold milk?"
He was game and we sat around the fire pit and ate almost a whole pack of Oreo's! Man, they were good but not as good as the fellowship for the next hour or so. It is an amazing thing to sit and talk with a brother about the goodness of God and the blessings of this life.
Packed up, said goodbye to everyone only to find out that Marty from Alaska was staying to make an afternoon hunt. What a man!! He said, "My plane doesn't leave Dallas till tomorrow so..." I love it! I think Marty could hunt for a living, I really do. His passion for it is amazing and pure. He seems to have a perspective on hunting that carries with it no preconceived notions about how the hunt will turn out and therefore he is able to truly enjoy all of it. I have been touched by that perspective and hope to emulate it as the years pass on.. God willing.
Final Thoughts
I really want to encourage anyone who has thought about hosting a group hunt to do it - no matter how small or large a group gathers. When Daniel took the step of doing this little did he know that I would experience some "first" in my life as a hunter. "First" are big for me. For some reason they have become defining moments in my life... first elk bugle to hear in person... first deer... first salmon in Alaska... first moose sighting...
I wasn't thinking about "first" when I went but there were numerous ones and for that I am grateful. First stalk on a hog on a WMA, first time seeing piglets nurse, first running shot at a hog and first time seeing Beouf WMA, a beautiful area right here in my home state. Also, my very first and second miss ever!!! :biglaugh: :biglaugh: :biglaugh:
Thanks Daniel and all the rest of the guys on the hunt!! Let's do that again.
That pig sure does look like he was cooked right! Sorry I missed it.
It was on like grey poupon Fred!!
Sounds like it was a good time!
Keep it coming Tod!! I'll be along shortly.
I'm having trouble loading my pics.
I will add my one pig sighting to the mix, Todd, great story telling, brother.
As Todd said, we all went to check out the new area saturday morning and several saw pigs, Todd and kip got a shot, we saw a good amount of deer, chased piglets, etc. Well, that evening, everyone agreed that there was more sign in the new area, so they went back there. Joe Barron and I decided to walk back through the original block of woods. I KNOW there are hogs in there, but there definitely aren't the usual amounts.
I wish you could hear us tell this story because it is much funnier in person, but I will try to still entertain you guys with it.
One thing that is really awesome about this particular wma is it has some really weird trees. Randy will hopefully elaborate on some of his findings, but it isn't anything to see a tree leaning a certain way you have never seen before, etc. Some trees look like something out of a horror movie, some have every limb all pointing straight up, some make a bench, some are laying completely flat, but still very much alive.
Joe and I were walking along admiring creation. Seeing all the different styles of trees, the different grasses, birds, ducks, coons, squirrels, rabbits... it is easy to get lost in the scenery. Got a little carried away there, but, I do love looking at God's creation. Back to the story, Joe and I were walking along fully expecting to see some hogs. I have several locations marked on my gps that could be considered "hot spots". Joe and I successfully made it through the "hot spots" and saw nothing. It was around 5 o'clock, as we are creeping through the woods and see something in the distance that looks jet black. It was weird though, way too big to be a pig. All the sudden Joe sees it and says, "THAT'S A BEAR!!!"(that was the funny part). We were staring at it from around 200 yards away and we could both see the rounded butt, the huge body, etc. Definitely a bear. So, what do any good southern boys do when seeing a bear? See how close you can get. LOL!
We began our stalk. After around 75 yards or so, the bear has now changed forms. Joe and I started to say, "that's a bear, that's a hog", and could not decide. After another 50 yards, we knew it was a hog, and it was a good'n.
The wind was PERFECT! The hog had his head buried in the freshly rooted soil. He must have been rooting in a hole. Throughout our approach, he was always in the same general area, but he did meander around some. I reiterated some emphasis to Joe on our approach, the only real "safe" time to approach is when he is moving and most preferably, without being able to see his head. As I had gotten within 50, I began to think this was a real reality. I could take this pig. Joe was a few yards behind me for a "back up" shot, should it be needed. I finally made it to comfortable range for me, and I was sitting there waiting for him to make a mistake. He was very hard quartering away from me about like ( / ) and the shot was just a hair over 30 yards. Had i been at 15, I would have taken this shot, no doubt, but i did not want to drill him in the ham and watch him run off with my arrow waving. I sat there for what seemed like 2 or 3 minutes intently focusing on the hog and trying not to move. Pretty soon, I hear a grunt and his head turned to check us out. When he did, I knew it was over, he turned and ran without ever presenting a shot. Honestly, I am not sure what happened, but isn't that what happens so often with hunting?
Joe and I tried to pursue the boar but never saw him again.
Overall, it was probably one of the most fun times I have had hunting. The camp fires were my favorite part. 10-12 guys all shooting the bull, talking strategies to get on the hogs, etc. It was fun to say the least!
Randy (Crittergetter) with is prizes... The pig in Randy's left hand(the black one) is one he kept for himself. I took the liberty of naming him, Jimmy Dean. Seems fitting to me!
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/92407C37-F0DB-498B-856F-718420FE650B_zpsbr7ypws0.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/92407C37-F0DB-498B-856F-718420FE650B_zpsbr7ypws0.jpg.html)
Randy, Marty, and I.
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/9BA72287-F831-43D5-A26F-CB07105457D6_zpsoqbwgm8u.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/9BA72287-F831-43D5-A26F-CB07105457D6_zpsoqbwgm8u.jpg.html)
a little back water..
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/B729F8D5-E54C-4C29-BFD4-7E0632D17754_zpsornbbw0n.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/B729F8D5-E54C-4C29-BFD4-7E0632D17754_zpsornbbw0n.jpg.html)
the camp dog, jethro. I know Marty and Pat have soft spots for dogs now. lol. Even though Jethro smelled like a skunk, they still loved on him. Pat has a funny "animal voice" that you should hear. LOL!!! (http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/05F705C3-AECD-44A1-BFFD-CAA684896474_zpsmmro9kjw.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/05F705C3-AECD-44A1-BFFD-CAA684896474_zpsmmro9kjw.jpg.html)
this was the freshest wallow of the weekend that I found. It's hard to tell it, but all the other water holes around were clear, this one is clearly not!
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/D4E1F191-9915-4EA0-A0A1-069EE2841DC8_zps6sgca64o.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/D4E1F191-9915-4EA0-A0A1-069EE2841DC8_zps6sgca64o.jpg.html)
this is what happens to the 40 pounders that don't make it away! Somethin happened to his back ham while everyone else was away.. I have no idea who did that! :bigsmyl:
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/354F1F69-B0E1-47A6-9211-EDB101230E09_zpsnv1bski8.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/354F1F69-B0E1-47A6-9211-EDB101230E09_zpsnv1bski8.jpg.html)
deboning it all out..
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/B5A66F2B-6319-434D-874D-464716762422_zpsdmqwxnde.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/B5A66F2B-6319-434D-874D-464716762422_zpsdmqwxnde.jpg.html)
Left overs for lunch yesterday..
(http://i1343.photobucket.com/albums/o795/wadebinkley/C6CEC958-2369-4732-B3BE-4A1DD4FD2F3E_zpsurtn59aw.jpg) (http://s1343.photobucket.com/user/wadebinkley/media/C6CEC958-2369-4732-B3BE-4A1DD4FD2F3E_zpsurtn59aw.jpg.html)
Great recap Todd and those were the best Oreos ever! And, "The Bear" story made us all laugh. Daniel got more excited than usual and Joe B. even got animated in the retelling (he's a very calm and cool character).
Even though I didn't see any hogs while hunting, I had an awesome time in the attempt. I had the pleasure of working alongside Joe C. and Kip Friday afternoon/evening. Our plan was to spread out, work East to some water, spread out again, then work North, into the wind to a cross road. Joe and I met at the water's edge as we watched a deer run away from us and into the flooded timber.
We waited a bit for Kip, but he didn't show, so we began our trek North. We saw a little sign, some areas better than others but no deer or hogs. We knew a few had been there, we just weren't crossing their paths at the right time.
(//%5Burl=http://s291.photobucket.com/user/Hackbow/media/Boeuf%20scat_zpsqjsaze67.jpg.html%5D%20%5Bimg%5Dhttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll296/Hackbow/Boeuf%20scat_zpsqjsaze67.jpg)[/url] [/IMG]
Joe and I made it to the crossroad, worked our way back down toward Kip's 4 wheeler but still no sign of Kip. It was getting dark and we began to worry a bit. We turned on our headlamps, headed into timber and tried to retrace Kip's earlier steps. Thankfully, a little while later we heard him holler back at us and fire up the quad. When we got back to the road and shared our concern with him, Kip looked at us like we had three heads. He had a different understanding of our plan and he executed his understanding perfectly. Joe and I were relieved to be sure, but also felt a bit silly that we didn't make sure we were all on the same page at the outset.
I'm just glad Darren didn't end up spending a "night in the swamp"! He has been known to disappear for a night!!!
:knothead: :biglaugh:
I saw the culprit but my lips are sealed.
I know we've mentioned the food, but it cannot be stated strongly enough - WE ATE LIKE KINGS! That fresh hog, smoked in camp, covered in Kip's proprietary seasoning, eaten in chunks while milling around the camp and the fire was incredible. And the only reason Pat's chili may not have gotten all slurped up is because we were eating smoked pig before the chili got hot. I'm a chili snob and Pat's was excellent! I even had a little more for 2nd breakfast after you left Sunday morning.
Funny Wayne! I'm not sure Bret has ever gotten over my impromptu and unannounced night on the mountain.
Like Daniel, I like to do a bit of sightseeing when I'm hunting. I always appreciate the unique ways that flora grows and develops in various terrain and climates. When one drives across the Plain States you can either get bored with the flatness and the relative monochrome nature OR you can look more closely and notice the intricate topographical changes and the life that teams within the small creeks and windbreaks.
In my short time hunting swamps and southern river bottoms, I've noticed a similarity to IA, KS, NE, etc. Everything can look the same until you really slow down and look, intently, at the wonders of Creation. I didn't take many pics this trip because I really was trying to kill a hog or deer. But here are a few things that caught my eye.
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(//%5Burl=http://s291.photobucket.com/user/Hackbow/media/Boeuf%20vine_zpsgnhp7u37.jpg.html%5D%20%5Bimg%5Dhttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll296/Hackbow/Boeuf%20vine_zpsgnhp7u37.jpg)[/url] [/IMG]
There were many more and sometimes I like to keep a few in my mind, just for myself.
Daniel, great rendition of the "500 lb. BEAR" you and Joe crept up on!!LOL!! I know that hog would have been in trouble if he would have offered you a shot at 30 yards!
I caught Jethro Sunday morning with a front shoulder blade of that Smoked Hog in his mouth heading off to his house to munch out!!! That dog smelled like I don't know what but he sure made a friend in Marty. I remember at the fire looking over at Marty with his long legs out and there was Jethro laid out on his legs like him and Marty were father and son!!
Here are more pictures of the piglet that became the "chosen one". What a contrast. All these guys out there trying to kill a hog but so caring with a little one. True hunters!
Daniel arriving at the trucks on his 4 wheeler with Jimmie Dean.
(http://i.imgur.com/WZNz1jA.jpg) (http://imgur.com/WZNz1jA)
Darren taking his turn holding the little guy.
(http://i.imgur.com/08fCeOk.jpg) (http://imgur.com/08fCeOk)
Daniel with Jimmie Dean tucked into his shirt by the fire
(http://i.imgur.com/liXsuUh.jpg) (http://imgur.com/liXsuUh)
Randy trying to get Jimmie Dean to eat a little bread and milk in the tent.
(http://i.imgur.com/AnXwf8z.jpg) (http://imgur.com/AnXwf8z)
Saturday was so much fun. As Pat said, he, Marty and I got pinched together by the flood water. Before Marty made it up to us, Pat and I sat on the end of an old blow down that crossed a little creek. We whisper-talked about hunting, his property, plans for some I hope to buy soon and just life in general for 30 minutes or so. It was a great break and an opportunity to get to know each other better.
We were just heading North when Marty strolled up. From that point on, Pat and I both saw some good sign, and Marty eventually found Randy and the others and you can see above they found hogs.
I jumped another deer, almost got an arrow in the air on a monster rabbit and continued seeing good sign.
(//%5Burl=http://s291.photobucket.com/user/Hackbow/media/Boeuf%20rooting_zpsrv3agwmj.jpg.html%5D%20%5Bimg%5Dhttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll296/Hackbow/Boeuf%20rooting_zpsrv3agwmj.jpg)[/url] [/IMG]
After a quick run back to camp for lunch and plan making, I went back with most of the others to the spot we hunted in the morning. Randy told me about an area he thought might be good and I went in, found a hide a few yards from the water's edge and set up facing the wind. I heard some loud splashing and could see a bunch of deer headed my way. They stopped about 80-100 yds out and took several minutes deciding what to do. Two took off running SW and skirted me at about 60 yds and the others ran straight W and out of sight. Randy said he'd spooked a bunch of ducks and heard something else flush out when the ducks took off - probably the deer.
Jimmy Dean, now that's funny!
Lol. Daniel, I definitely have a soft spot for dogs, and animals in general. I can sometimes be gruff, but I can't help but baby-talk with dogs and other pets. Guess that is probably what you meant. Heck, I couldn't stop worrying that Jimmy Dean was cold when I heard him grunting, so I laid on the floor with him snuggled in under my jacket while it got cold at night. At least he had already had a bath.
Yep, were probably the most unconventional hog hunters ever! Lol.
We go hog hunting and Coke back with piglets that we treat like pets! Lol.
Lots of great stories and pictures already posted. Todd, great job on the pictures and posts. I like that selfie! First, thanks to Daniel for putting on this hunt. It was great getting to know you and I'm already thinking about the possibility of another trip down south. Today was back to reality and back to work. Everyone asked me "how was the hunt", "did you catch one?" That always cracks me up, "catch one". I gave each person a short recap and as I did I realized that I spent most of the time talking about the great people I had just met. I hope to share a campfire with you all again. :readit: . Thank you again Kip.
Here's hoping next time the weather co-operates and it's warmer in Louisiana than Ontario!
Joe
I PM some of the guys,but for those i missed just wanted to say I really enjoyed the company of being with the trad gang guys. I hate you guys didnt get a hog, but like Daniel I know the pigs are there.The high water really hurt. Be glad your not here now the water has risen even more and much more ground is now under water.. Thanks to Daniel for inviting me to enjoy your campfire and thanks to Fred and Kip for that wonderful gumbo friday night..Hope to do it again and this time cades not going to steal my boots....lol.
LOL. The pleasure was all ours, Terry, I am sure.
Terry,
Not only did Kade steal yours, he also stole mine and left yours at the camp! Lol!! I tried to stick my foot in that size 9 and it was not happening!!! Lol.
Ok, I've been trying to load pics for the last 2 days without any luck. So I just gave up!
Tod you did a great job with your tale of the hunt! 2 things I want to echo.
1. The amount of enthusiasm that Daniel has is infectious! I think it was Darren that said "that guy just loves life"!
It is hard to be around Daniel and not feel his passion for everything he does! His story telling will keep you rolling with laughter. He is the type of person I love being around! A good solid man full of life!
2. Tod said it best, how Marty has no preconcieved notions about how a hunt is going to go! I've heard him say on many occasions " I'm just out for a walk"! And man, the guy can walk! I have enjoyed many conversations in the woods with Marty and am honored to call him friend!
As far as the rest of the group it would take all night trying to convey how awesome they are and what a great time we had.
I am blessed to be able to spend time with current friends and to be able to make more thru a common passion!
I enjoyed meeting each and every one of them and enjoyed each conversation! I look forward to many more hunts with each of you in the future!
Pat, the chili was amazing! You didn't see the 2 heaping bowls I ate because you was busy "pampering " jimmy Dean! lol
One thing I was dissapointed in was the fact that I missed out on the Oreos and milk!!! Dang it!!
I'll add pics if I can ever get them to load!
Terry, many thanks to you sir for shuttling hunters from drop off points to pick up points. What you did made the hunt more enjoyable for everyone. It was a pleasure meeting you. Next time you gotta have your bow and - we hunt!!!
Glad you guys had such a good time here in the Sportsmen's Paradise and Kip is the man when it comes to hospitality.
DJ
Looks and sounds like y'all had a great time! Sorry I missed it. Hopefully next year I'll be able to make it. Well done Daniel. :thumbsup:
Charlie
No problem Todd, I enjoyed being around all the guys who have this same disease i recently caught. My wife thinks I have gone nuts with all the shooting..lol. I plan to hunt next time as long as kade does not take my boots again,next time it will prolly be my widow, lol.
Terry it was a pleasure meeting you.Being one of the older members( an old goat)(shower was great) of the weekend I cannot thank you enough for you letting use the camp and grounds if ever near Ville Platte please look me up .Thanks again the weekend was great also all the guest were just the best and Daniel is a great host and ate up with bowhunting just like I was in the 70'S old age sometimes tempers the the action but I never forget the rush when a broadhead goes through the ribs.Thanks Kip
Pat Kelly, Thanks for the tips on sharpening the broad heads. I have incorporated your techniques with great results! I have some stones out of Lansky Knife Sharpening kit. I am just free handing them on my broad heads but after you got that edge started on my Cutthroats they are now popping hair! Thanks again!
Lol. You are welcome. Always nice to have a sharp broadhead. Go stick a pig with one.
QuoteOriginally posted by pdk25:
Lol. You are welcome. Always nice to have a sharp broadhead. Go stick a pig with one.
That's the plan!!
Todd, how do you like the cutthroats?
I finally got pics to load and got time to post some. Here's a few of my favorite. (http://i324.photobucket.com/albums/k359/crittergetter76/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-02/C8720FCF-02C8-450B-AF07-C9B44C499805_zpslhwviyp5.jpg) (http://s324.photobucket.com/user/crittergetter76/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-02/C8720FCF-02C8-450B-AF07-C9B44C499805_zpslhwviyp5.jpg.html) (http://i324.photobucket.com/albums/k359/crittergetter76/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/EC9563B3-7E2C-4B89-895C-608272C12771_zpsbwmruwhm.jpg) (http://s324.photobucket.com/user/crittergetter76/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/EC9563B3-7E2C-4B89-895C-608272C12771_zpsbwmruwhm.jpg.html) (http://i324.photobucket.com/albums/k359/crittergetter76/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/6F30086F-5FBE-44BB-A30A-CC4E161782DA_zps9a8ghxex.jpg) (http://s324.photobucket.com/user/crittergetter76/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/6F30086F-5FBE-44BB-A30A-CC4E161782DA_zps9a8ghxex.jpg.html) (http://i324.photobucket.com/albums/k359/crittergetter76/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/970643A4-0C69-43BE-9A6C-3739605BCD8F_zpsw83bgbpk.jpg) (http://s324.photobucket.com/user/crittergetter76/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/970643A4-0C69-43BE-9A6C-3739605BCD8F_zpsw83bgbpk.jpg.html) (http://i324.photobucket.com/albums/k359/crittergetter76/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/3CC5F84A-91B7-4F8C-A077-FD054BCC15D0_zps3etgo6cs.jpg) (http://s324.photobucket.com/user/crittergetter76/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/3CC5F84A-91B7-4F8C-A077-FD054BCC15D0_zps3etgo6cs.jpg.html) (http://i324.photobucket.com/albums/k359/crittergetter76/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-02/4204523F-2C72-4552-B291-3431BB20C808_zpsrdzhpqck.jpg) (http://s324.photobucket.com/user/crittergetter76/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-02/4204523F-2C72-4552-B291-3431BB20C808_zpsrdzhpqck.jpg.html)
QuoteOriginally posted by awbowman:
Todd, how do you like the cutthroats?
Fred, I love them. They fly great and (now that I know better how to sharpen them) I believe I will not be disappointed in their performance. I had them decently sharp but after Pat was through with them I realized that my definition of sharp was not up to par.
Yet to shoot an animal with them but you can just tell they are well made.