Trad Gang

For Love of the Game 2009...... Texas


It's hard to start a story like this. I never know where or when to begin. At what point do you have to draw the line on how far back a story starts?  I would say this story would have to start in the fall of 1999 (I know, ten years ago and it doesn't seem like it...). I was a senior in high school and was in my second year of my professional guiding career. It's a whole other story on how that started, but out of all of my guiding experience I formed a friendship with a person that I will always call my best friend.

Anybody who has read stories of my past hunts has probably herd me speak of Matt. Matt is the friend I met guiding that year, and together we have experienced and shared our miss spent youth, our early years of man-hood, our trying times as adults, and some of my best hunting memories that will stick with me even through the worst case of "old-timers" (or however you spell that disease that makes you forget everything).

Every year Matt and I get together for hunts as often as possible. Usually our hunts consist of him sharing his stomping grounds with me and me sharing my stomping grounds with him once per year. Matt is an East-Texan through and through. Being born and raised in the Lufkin area, he is sometimes hard to understand on the phone (or anywhere for that matter), but I have become quite fluent in the "East-Texas drawl" language and I find myself speaking East-Texan for a few weeks after returning home. What can I say? When in Rome do as the Roman's, right?

Anyhow, February 19 found me on the road from Rangely, Colorado to the destination of Hudson, Texas. With my gear and Gauge in the truck we set out, and holy crap what a long drive.  Miles upon miles upon miles. I drove as long as could and made it to Vernon, Texas before I had to give up for the day. Now I must warn you here. Every hunt has its hazards. Be it weather, animals, treacherous terrain, or whatever. The hazard I ran into on this hunt was a motel I stayed at in Vernon called the Greentree Inn. I hope the Mods don't mind me taking a few moments to warn you all to go a head and stay elsewhere while in this town. There is a perfectly good Holiday Inn just up the street. At first appearance the Greentree is an alright place with semi-clean rooms and such. They're also pet friendly. But after me having to put up with a real life Jerry Springer episode in the room right next to me, me calling the police who don't show up for 2 hours, calling the front desk telling them of the situation, them telling me to call the police, the police finally show, they arrest the wife who was beating her husband, I give a statement, police leave, husband gets mad at me after the police leave because I got his "Big Momma" (and I quote) "Throwed in the pokie", I finally have enough and leave at pretty close to midnight. I didn't get much rest, but I was wide awake after the "episode". I get to Hudson at 6:00 am on the 20th.

Matt and I get gathered up, I shoot a few times to loosen up, and we hit the woods. Matt sat me in a ladder stand that was being hit by a good boar he'd seen the few weeks previous. He spread a little corn as he left and all that showed up was a very young sow and her pigs. Matt LOVES pig hunting and asked me not to shoot any sows with chotes (baby pigs). That's all that showed up this morning, and I couldn't tell if the chotes were wheened yet or not, so I let them walk. What a great morning regardless.

   (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/sowandpigs.jpg)

I pretty much rested the rest of the day and we got caught up with the happenings of East-Texas. The next morning would find us off to the same stand.


For reasons unknown, we got a pretty late start this morning. It was light enough to see good as we were making our way to the stand. This piece of property has very little pressure and Matt assured me we should still see some hogs, but he also added that getting a late start is a habit we should not get into.

As we were passing an oat patch on the way to the ladder stand, I noticed movement in the middle of the patch and instantly stopped the truck. I looked through the binos and sized up the beast that was rooting the oat patch. Matt told me, "Man, don't waste your time on that! We can do much better." I told him I was very interested in trying a stalk. I told him it would mean a lot to me. I finally won the argument. With my trusty Sunbear in hand, I set out. I no more got out of the truck and an arrow knocked before the great pre-historic beast retreated to the sanction of the thick piney woods.

Matt was happy not much time was wasted on that stalk and off to the ladder stand we went.

Matt dropped me off, told me he would pick me up in 3 hours, spread a little corn, and was on his way to do some chores. I climbed the stand and sat for a while with no excitement. The patch this stand is located on is about 5 acres of oats. To the north of the stand is a feeder about 15 yards away. To the north of the feeder is a finger of brush that comes out and kind of creates a dog leg to another section of oats you can't see from the ladder stand. To the east of the ladder stand is a traditional box blind that has a full view of the entire oat patch that rifle hunters use.

At about 8:00 I catch movement over by the box blind. A quick inspection revealed it was Matt. I guess he finished his chores, parked the truck and snuck through the woods to the box blind. He quietly made his way up the stairs to the blind.

The wind was coming out of the north and was perfect in my face.

At about 8:30, movement to the north of the feeder caught my eye. I sized the hog up and determined him to be a good boar. He was about 70 yards away and wasn't interested in the corn at all. He spent a few minutes grazing and rooting the edge of the oat patch on my side of the finger of brush. As soon as he had his fill, he cut through the finger. I figured he was on the other side feeding on that side of the finger of brush. I looked at Matt through my binos. Through hand signals he told me this was the good boar that we were after and that he was indeed on the other side of the patch. Matt and I have hunted long enough together; we both kind of know what the other is thinking.

I very quietly climbed out of the stand and eased my way to the finger of brush. I knocked a 31.5" Gold Tip with a razor sharp WW head and 235 grains of up front weight. The whisper quiet 62# @ 30" Sunbear was ready. I slowly eased to the point of the finger. I no more then poked an eyeball around the corner when the boar locked on to me. I thought the gig was up, but out of instinct I froze and looked to the ground to avoid eye contact. I also knew the hog was on the outer reaches of my comfort zone. I also knew if he would stick around, I could make the shot.

The hog did and instant 180 degree turn and too my amazement, went back to rooting.

The hog was slightly quartering away. I came to full draw, picked my spot, had a real good discussion with myself to make sure my release fingers were in tune with my brain, and released.

The arrow buried fletch deep in nothing but absolute pump house. A perfect shot.

I was pretty calm through the whole ordeal, I guess because I hadn't quite realized what all had just transpired. I stepped off the yardage to the spot the hog was standing. A full 27 yards. I had forgotten all about Matt until he slapped me on the back while I was looking for blood.

"Man you got him! I watched it all through my binos! That was awesome! Good shot man! That hog has cutters as big as they get! What a great job! You did it! He'll be down in short order!"

I was still soaking up the whole of it. Then the fever set in. I was shaking like a dog passing walnut shells.

It didn't take long to find first blood. This is where the hog entered the woods.

   (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/bloodtrail.jpg)

The hog made it about 100 yards and was done. Profuse blood the entire trail. I found my new favorite head. Great blood and great penetration through about 1.5" of shield.

I was absolutely blown away at the size of his cutters. I couldn't believe it. Needless to say, my smile lasted for a while. I was on cloud 9 for the rest of the day.

   (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/heropic.jpg)

   (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/rasorkillers.jpg)

The hog only weight 200-225#, but in my mind is as big as they get. I'm super happy and think if this is a sign of things, me and the Sunbear are going to have a wonderful life together.

The Sunbear in the sun.

   (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/subearandsun.jpg)

More to come....

Thanks for reading,

Todd

Congrats! Awesome story and hog!

Thanks you. A lot!
Great story.

Wow! He's a beauty! Many happy returns of the day to you.

Congratulations, good looking hog. Congratulations also on having a hunting buddy like Matt. Thanks for sharing your hunt with us.

Very nice hog! Congrats!  ;)

Great story and even better shooting!!!
 :thumbsup:    :clapper:

Congrats to you.

Been waiting for this one after talking to Tracy...Congrats!  Great start buddy   :notworthy:

Can't wait for more of the "Good Stuff"

Congrats! Sunbears, hogs and good friends thats a hard act to beat. I will warn you that hog hunting tends to be quiet addictive and leads to many long drives to Texas. But everyone of those adventures is worth a lifetime of memories.

Congratulations Todd that is a dandy hog! Good story telling thanks for sharing.  :clapper:

:clapper:

That porker has some nice cutters...great story and pix...thanks for sharing.

Way to go bud!! I'd been wondering if that bow was getting any use.
 :wavey:  

You write a pretty mean story too my friend.
 :campfire:

great howg! congrats

Love the hog stories! Good job!

Sweet!

What a hog!
Great story - looking forward to more!  :clapper:

Nicely done all the way around.  :thumbsup:

Awesome!!

Good looking hawg!

Congrats  :thumbsup:  what a hog and great story.

Nice cutters    :thumbsup:  thanks for taking us with you.

We spent the rest of the day B.S.ing the butcher and taxidermist.  Both pretty good friends of Matt's.  We took the next couple of days off from bow hunting.

A few days later we were back after it.

I set in different stands for a couple of hunts, and while seeing hogs every time, I wasn't able to close the deal on any one of them. One morning while on the way to a different ladder stand we passed the same oat patch that had that rooting beast in it that I almost tried a stalk on. Every time we passed this patch, I would make Matt stop the truck so we could spend enough time to look for new sign and see if we couldn't find the wary beast again. It took a few days, but one morning while glassing I instantly spied the rooter rooting. By now, I had convinced Matt that this was definitely a worthy adversary.

I got out of the truck, tried to put the wind in my face and began the stalk. I figured the best method to close the distance would be to act like a rooter my self. I got down on all fours and tried "feeding" my way closer. Before long I was about 40 yards from him when all of the sudden he blew out of there like a popped balloon and was gone in an instant.  Busted once again.

After setting a stand the next morning, I decided to have a stump shooting session and to take Gauge the (bow hunting) Gun Dog Sr. for a walk. He isn't allowed to spend much time in the hog woods, so we just walked oat patches shooting leaves, stumps, clumps of grass and such while looking for hog sign.

I was in the middle of a big pasture, mid-day, when movement just ahead catches my eye. It didn't take long to put together a stalk. I signed Gauge to stay. I slowly worked closer and before long I had stalked to about 20 yards. The critter looked up a couple of times, but I guess he never figured me for a threat. Best I could figure, he was digging and eating insects.

I eased the string back and sent another razor sharp Woodsman on its way. The shot was on its mark and the high FOC gave my arrow a complete pass-through. The shot dropped him in his tracks, but I couldn't tell if he was actually dead or just playing dead. I put another one in him at extreme close range to make sure if Gauge got his nose too close or if I got my fingers to close all would remain in tact. I always heard these critters were nocturnal.

It made for a great day. I love small game and varmint hunting.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/possum.jpg)

Thanks for all of your wonderful comments.

Charlie, the bow is awesome!

More in just a bit,

Todd

Nice story and a nice hog to go with it!  Thanks bud!

Great story, and Great Hog!!   :thumbsup:   It's good to hear some East Texas stories.   :clapper:  Thanks!!!

Thanks for taking me along for the ride.

More of the same when it came to pig hunting.  I seen a bunch of them while bow hunting, but just couldn't make everything come together.

However, one after noon while headed back to the house for lunch, and passing through the oat patch that the mysterious rooter called home, Matt spotted him and the stalk was on again. Once again I fed my way to him.

I wasn't taking any chances. Matt warned me that if I didn't get a pass-through, I would probably loose my arrow if the shot wasn't perfect. I was never able to get close to him, so I wasn't taking any chances. I took my time and when I was a full 35 yards away, I decided to shoot. Now I don't like to preach quartering too shots, but it's all I had and felt my equipment was up to the task.

The shot was golden. The arrow entered between his neck and front shoulder and exited just in front of his hind quarter on the opposite side. The beast jumped a good 6-8 feet in the air and hit the ground running. He didn't make it too far however and the rooting beast was down.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/armadillo.jpg)  

Thanks for coming along. I'm deeply humbled by all of your wonderful comments and I can't thank you enough for joining me on this hunt.

This pretty much concludes my bow hunting in East-Texas.

Thanks once again and happy hunting to all,

Todd

Awesome story!!!!!!  Felt like I was right there with ya!!!

Congratualations!!!!!

I used to live in Rangely when I was very young, but don't remember much of it though.

:thumbsup:    :thumbsup:

Now thats how you tell a story.Congrats.

Way to go buddy!!   :notworthy:

nice pig congrats :0)  :thumbsup:

Great story! Good hog too.

Congrats,

Bisch

Great Story Todd and Congratulations  :clapper:

Awesome,Nice job  :thumbsup:

Great story Todd   :thumbsup:  You keep shooting like that and that big ol bull elk I'm going to film you shoot this fall is in big trouble.  :goldtooth:  

Tracy

Wat to go Todd!! Nice pig! Did you draw bear over here in UT? Hey Tracy, look for a pm or email in the near future.

great stuff...nice boar...very envious

Jb

Utah, here we come..

It's days away until the hunt.

This year I am hosting a fine crowd and can't wait. I feel honored.

We'll have a Doc and his Gatekeepin' friend from somewhere up in Kinslow country Missouri, A Lamb for sure, A feller I hear Saye is a gent, and a trapper from K.S., as well as an "unusual antelope hunter".

In a few days, Gent's you'll be in some fine Elkskin and buckskin country..

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/deepcreek1.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/rightbycamp11.jpg)

I set a trail cam up on a hole that I hope will produce for that Lamb feller....

(I set it up a little high and had lots of photos of nothing but nothing and ears. I did manage to get a few butt shots along with a few good shots. Enjoy...)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/elkbutt.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/cowandcalf.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/coupleofem-1.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/anotheryote-1.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/coyoteears.jpg)

I think were gonna have a great story to tell...

Todd

I also meant to note the dates are not correct on the camera.

Todd

Gonna be awesome buddy, wish I could have made!

Loox like Lam'o is gonna be filling his freezer    :thumbsup:

I know Tracy sure is fired up, fit, and ready to get after'um...good luck to everyone    :campfire:

Have fun, guys, we'll be thinkin' of you....  :thumbsup:  

 :archer:

Great start to the thread Todd  :goldtooth:  

I was up and out in the shop at 4:30am shooting and sharpining broadheads, Sleep is coming hard for some reason these days  ;)  

5 days and counting  :jumper:    :jumper:  

Tracy

Todd, Nice hog!Can't wait to get there Saturday morning and get started!  Thanks,   Ben

Todd,

Awesome man, thanks for taking me back this fall as I will not be there.  I am assuming I know where you guys are going?

Can't wait to follow along,

Nathan

All the best with it, Todd and Co. You have some spectacular scenery.

Have a great trip. Can't wait to hear the stories.

Working on getting my mountain legs under me Todd.
See you Friday... maybe Thursday?

Charlie,

Thursday would be great if you can make it.

Nate,

You're spot on bud. Hopefully we'll get a few pics that will make you lean a little harder toward the area. Would love to meet you sometime.

Todd

Fellas,

Camp is ready. Gauge is always a ready host. I must warn now that he loves people and he loves to lick ya in the ear... I appologize now...

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/scoutingtrip122.jpg)

The deer look good too. Lot's of these guys. Dad seen 3 4 points opening weekend.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/scoutingtrip115.jpg)

This one has a bit of a wierd antler.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/wirdhorn.jpg)

Lot's and lot's of these this year.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/littleman.jpg)

Tracey,

I have got to get back to sharpening and packing my own self.... More later....

Todd

Todd,

Can see enough of these pictures.  I'm thinking Mr. Lamb is going to have a pretty interesting spot to sit this next week!

Can't wait to get up on South Mountain and see the few.  Get chills just thinking about being back in the high country.  Thanks for giving me another chance to chase after some elk.  The adrenaline is already starting to pump through my veins!  

Doc Kinslow

Good Luck Everyone!!!

Hey Todd, great pics, lookin forward to it guys, but I have some unfinished business to attend to...

:clapper:    :clapper:

Todd,

You don't have to do a thing more to lean me that way.  I fell in love with the "other" side of the mountain last year.  For me it is just planning the year.  Maybe I can draw the LE tag in 2011...That would be fun!

Have a good hunt guys,

Nathan

Boy I can't wait for this to get going!!!

Looking forward to it Todd!!  Best of luck to all of you!

You got quite the crowd with ya and it is a great recipe for lots of fun, great campfire times and some good old fashion trad bow hunting!!

It's 22:14 hundred hours right now, and I'm walking out the door.

Utah clan,

Can't wait till Saturday morning. Hopefully we'll be eating fresh backstrap by then. Be sure and drive carefull....

Thanks to all for tagging along... It's gonna be a good story.

See ya in a week...

Todd

Take care, friends

:jumper:    :jumper:    :jumper:

Got a text message from my brother this morning:

"Red mountains of Utah on the horizon...feels great."

If they end up having any cell coverage at all, I will try to keep things updated!

^^^

Haven't heard from Tracy yet    :pray:

Just heard from Tracy. No animals on the ground yet. If they had big bull tags however, it would be a different story. Them guys from the midwest are awful nice to wait for me to start shootin animals, aren't they! Headed up Wed. Can't get here quick enough.

Good luck buddy, them boys sure are seeing a bunch of game!!  Tracy said all the elk are "too big to shoot"....they need them to be spikes or cows    :scared:  

The critters will be falling soon    :thumbsup:    :thumbsup:

Tracy also said that there's gonna be some awesome pic and stories when everyone gets home    :campfire:    :pray:

:jumper:

Awesome stuff and great pics!

Now that's  a hunt I can only dream about! Good Luck Folks!

It's 2:00am in the mornin' and I know I should be asleep, but the dream of the hunt is giving me thoughts I can't help but to re-think...

I just walked through the door. What a great group of guy's, and yes, we will have great stories to tell...

The ice was broken today... Plenty more on that later.

I know one thing, I miss my friends already.

I can't wait to tell the story of the bear that tested Mr. Bens's, myself, and Gauge's salt for sure....

Good night all. See you in the morning.

Todd

Ok, its morning now....we need details!   :coffee:    :)

:campfire:    :coffee:

y'off work yet, Todd.....  :knothead:  

 :campfire:

Man!! If I didn't know better, I'd think I was writing this one.
 :D

It's my morning right now. Typing in progress...

Todd

Todd - the edge of my seat is getting pretty uncomfortable!!!  :campfire:

Here we came.....

I'm going to wait for the others to get back and settled and to share there experiences. I will say Ben and I did have a very hair raising experience that left us checking our britches for extra baggage..

Forgive me for not getting into details about the fellas yet. I do know they are having a great time and a couple of close calls.

Plenty more about the group to come. I will share my experiences though.

8/20 and 8/21/2009

The crew wasn't going to arrive until Saturday morning. These two days I spent hunting with my wonderful father. The two days however were great. Slow but great.

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery142.jpg)

We did find a water hole we had walked past several times but never noticed before, and Dad hung a trail cam on it Friday afternoon.

Here are a few recovery pics..

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/SUNP0032.jpg)

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/SUNP0029.jpg)

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/SUNP0030-1.jpg)

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/SUNP0011a.jpg)

Lot's of these type pictures... Nobody in our crew has an anybull tag, dang it.

We also seen lot's of bear sign.. Nothing out of the ordinary.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery002.jpg)

Tracks over our 15 minute old tracks.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery004.jpg)


(WE INTERUPT THIS MESSAGE FOR AN UPDATE....the phone just wrang and my Dad gave un update of the fellas. One of the guy's made a kill today.. BACK TO STORY)

Let's skip a head to yesterday now...

8/26/2009

This was my last day I had to deer hunt. I sent the guy's on their way and went to the same spot I took this buck last year.

    (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/victory.jpg)

The night before, it had rained pretty well, making the stalking great.

Slowly and methodically, Gauge and I made our rounds with a great wind in our face. After an hour of heavy searching through the early morning shadows, I spotted two yearling bucks foraging on the sweet bitter brush that deer love so much.

I watched for an hour or so as the two bucks went about their business un-aware of Gauge and I's presents and malice intentions.

After a while the spike went about his way, leaving the 2x2 on his own. It's a funny thing how the predator and prey circle of life works. I thought heavily if a mountain lion has ever watched me this way, with the same intentions and all. I know a bear has and so does Ben. But like I say, we'll get into that later.....

After a few minutes, the nice yearling buck made his way to a clump of oak brush and bedded down is such a perfect spot for a stalk that made my heart beat a little faster. The conditions were so perfect. Nice wet ground and a moderate breeze right in my face.

I signed Gauge to lay and stay, put arrow to string, checked the sharpness of the Zwickey Delta and began the couple hundred yard stalk.

Before I knew it, I was 50 yards from the buck. I looked back to check on Gauge and he was following me. He knew he was supposed to stay, but he can't help but be apart of everything I do. He was hanging back about 30 yards from me, but making no noise. I thought he couldn't hurt anything and as long as he stayed back, that would be good enough. Besides that, I had bigger fish (or back strap) to fry.

I don't remember sneaking those last few yards, but before I knew it, I was well within distance. I talked myself through the shot before it happened. I could see all but the bucks eyes. His ears were at attention in my direction, but he continued to chew his cud. He was broadside.

I whistled softy to stand the buck, and when he stood, I drew my bow. I hit anchor and sent the arrow....

At the sound of the shot, the deer swapped ends..... I made a perfect shot. I was shooting at the left side of the deer, but hit him on his right side, right square in the hind quarters.... I was sick enough to puke...

It was a long hour's wait with sickening thought running through my head. I made a great shot, but Mr. Kinslow will later testify the ability of these mule deer to jump string like white tail.

No excuses or reason can make up for the feeling you get though when your arrow disappears in a horrible location on an animal. I spent an hour wishing you could take arrows back once they are sent, but as we all know, we can't.

It was 16 paces from me to the buck. I knew I was going to need Gauge to track this buck and as silly as it sounds, I set next to him and told him that if there was ever a time he was going to need to show up to work, it was now. I scratched his ears and after an hour I put him on the trail. His nose showed the way and it wasn't long before he was looking at me to show me he was doing his job and doing it well...

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery008.jpg)

The blood sign was very encouraging for the shot location. About 30 yards from first blood found, Gauge found this.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery010.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery011.jpg)

Then this....

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery012.jpg)

Then this..

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery009.jpg)

At this point, I felt confident I hit the artery. What good luck...

Todd

Gauge kept working the trail, and about 70 yards from where it all began, Gauge stopped, threw his nose in the air, and looked at me, several times over...

I searched the Oak clump heavily with my binos. Pretty close to me, I spotted something that looked like an eye. While I pondered what I was looking at, the deer blinked confirming my suspicions.

I quietly knocked another arrow, and peaked an eyeball out to survey what type of shot I had.

The buck was slightly up hill. I could see nothing but butt and head and the slightest patch of body. I knew if I could hit that patch of body, the arrow would find its way to the vitals.

At no more then six yards. I concentrated hard on the one spot that would end this deer's sufferings and sent another arrow. The deer tried to stand, but being week from loss of blood and now the fact he had another broadhead in his heart, he couldn't. It was over in seconds....

I first walked to the deer and removed the arrow in him, then un-tied Gauge from his leash and gave Gauge 10 minutes to do with the deer what he wanted as a reward. As he circled the deer licking his eyes, nose, wound and ears, I sat back a few yards and thanked God for the blessings before my eyes. Gauge and the deer and in that order. What a good friend I have in Gauge.

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery013.jpg)

  (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery014.jpg)

Todd

The buck loaded on the "ATV rack" ready for the "ride" out...

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery017.jpg)

Tracy takes a great hero pic..

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery018.jpg)

Thanks for reading along. Remember, this is just the start. Four other men have stories to share...

Todd

Excellent, Todd! Well-done to you and your dog! I'm lookin' forward to reading about the rest of the fellows' adventures. Cheers!

Good job bud...congrats!!

So much more to hear.....

:clapper:

Great story tellin bud!! Of course I'm a little confused.... Zwickey? That ain't no Sunbear!

Of course I'm just givin you a hard time. Congratulations!!

 :thumbsup:

Gauge and youself did a great job.  What a superb best friend to help in recovery.  

Thanks for taking us along.

John III

Todd

Great story indeed!!!!  Really glad it worked out for ya and that is a fine traditional trophy!!!

Looking forward to the rest!!

Great picture of you, the buck and good ol' Gauge...backed by awesome aspens! Love it.    :thumbsup:   Glad you had some time with your Dad in those surroundings also.

:thumbsup:    :clapper:    :coffee:

QuoteOriginally posted by Charlie Lamb:
 That ain't no Sunbear!

I was thinking the same thing when I read it    ;)

Yeah Curt, we gotta keep Todd on his toes.  Of course comparing his week to the one I just had has nothing to do with it.
 ;)

It's like this,.....

That OLD Bear and I have had somewhat of an "elk" issue. It's always done it's part, but I have yet to do mine. It's a great bow, and I kinda' promised it that one day, I will hold up my end and connect on one of those stinky beasts with it. Then, we can both move on and live happily ever after.

The Sunbear will have it's day in the elk woods hopefully several times over. I haven't told my Old Bear that there's another future aspect yet, so make sure and whisper about such things while on this thread.... Shhhhh....

The Zwickey's..... I have a whole drawer full of great old Delta's and Eskimo's 2 blades, and a wise old man once said, "the only thing that really matters is a sharp broadhead." (or something along those lines.) So, I decided I'm using them this year and I'm way happy with the results. The hole that thing (Delta) left in that poor critters hind quarters was amazing. Plus, I used to use Magnus II's with great effect until somebody said they wouldn't work and I believed them.

Go figure....

Thanks for reading everyone....

Todd

Great stuff Todd, Can't wait to hear the rest.

Nathan

I think the boys are on the way home now, should be stories soon!

Hope they're gettin' rested, maybe some stories tomorrow?....

 :rolleyes:

That is an awesome story and the lic of you Gauge and the deer is one for the wall - awesome pic.


 :thumbsup:    :thumbsup:    :clapper:

The boys should be chiming in soon, probably tom. What a great hunt, and a what a great group of guys. I only wished I could have spent more time with Todd, and that Charlie would have been able to make it. I didn't get there until Wed night, so I will get in the game a little later.
Great buck Todd, and thanks for the invite. Mabey next time over in the center of the state   :D    ;)

Tap, Tap, Tap...   I think they're just trying to figure out how to drag out their stories. LOL

I'm Taping my own self, and I was there most of the trip.

I do know they had a heck of an all night trip.

Todd

NIce mulie buck Todd!

Way to get the season rollin'!

Shoot straight, Shinken

We made it back safe and sound this morning about 9:00am   :bigsmyl:  

I can't begin to tell you all what a great time I had and what a great bunch of guys I got to hunt and share camp with.

Todd and Gauge really showed us a great time and I am already missing the mountains and my friends. It's going to be wierd not falling a sleep to Ben's snoring tonight  :biglaugh:  

My computer is not working right so I will try and get some picks posted tomorrow from the lap top. Hang in there guys we have alot of picks for you to see and some great storys to tell.

Tracy

Ben is back, so I 'm going to go ahead and share the Bear experience.

August 23, 2009

The early morning rain hitting the rain fly on the canvas roof was the alarm clock this morning, and the fresh scent of wet Aspin was as welcome as the perculating aroma of the more then darkened Folgers.

The night before, I had taken Tracy and Ben on a little ride across the mountain to show them around and give their mind and body a chance to acclimate to the altitude. The ride was a wonderful treat as I got to know Ben a little better and caught up with Tracy as well. During the ride, I decided I was going to take Ben to a favorite hole of mine that has been a great producer of elk.

As Ben and I left camp, we couldn't help but noticed the increased spry in the animals as well. The deer were out in full force this morning. As we declined the mountain top that camp was located on, and entered the heavily oak brush covered bottom, doe, fawn, and buck all seemed to relish the wet grass as much as my pant leg was relishing the steaming coffee that couldn't help but escape the spill proof lid of my "Kum & Go" 32 oz insulated mug.

The Jeep's inline six sang its solitary tune and the BF All Terrains cracking and popping on the wet gravel was its band. Ben and I were mostly quiet during the ride as we took in the fresh air and fresher scenery.  As we turned off on the two track that led to the spot we were going to hunt, Ben spotted a way nice 25 or 26 in 4x3 buck that was with a smaller buck and a few doe. I pulled down the road aways and decided to try my luck at a small stalk back up the road in hopes this buck's IQ was a few points less then his rack measurement. A long story short, it wasn't.

After many deer later, we finally reached our destination point.

The wind was good in our favor as we started our walk. We hadn't walked more then a quarter of a mile from the jeep before I caught small movement ahead in a clump of Oak on the edge of an Aspin stand. A quick inspection through my optics revealed (in an exciting whisper) "Elk"... Ben's eyes widened at the short but sweet word. I set Ben ahead of me and gave a few small chirps. They answered back a couple of times, but weren't interested in joining our mock party.

We decided that we should try stalking closer and Ben took the lead. It was a pleasure watching him in his primal state of mind. Smooth, quiet and slow, we eased ahead. Unfortunately, the elk some how gave us the slip and we decided to let them be as they weren't spooked at all. We continued on.

We got to the edge of the canyon we wanted to hunt and I chirped a few more times to no avail. I have hunted here too long to not know there weren't elk in that canyon somewhere. Working my binos too the max, I eventually spotted a few in the bottom making their way up the canyon. Once again, the stars weren't aligned quite right and the good wind we started with was now preventing us from any hopes of a successful stalk. We decided to let them be as well and try again later when we might have the "right" wind.

   (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/UtahArchery144.jpg)

We started circling back to the jeep to try our luck else were and leave what we had here alone.

We made our way to the two track that would lead us right back to the Jeep. Once again, Ben spotted another buck in a small stand of Aspin, but it was too late as he was jumpy to begin with and he decided to get out of the country.

As we left that stand of Aspin, the road straightened and led to another. As we were about to enter the next stand, we heard a loud crash behind us and too our right coming from a lone Oak thicket on top of a knoll. I was in front, Gauge followed, Ben was in tow. Consequently, he was the first to yell "Bear"!!!!

I took a few steps toward Ben to survey the situation. As I did, I noticed a very large and very dark chocolate bear locked on to Ben and coming at him with every ounce of strength he had......

His fat rolled under his shiny coat as ripples roll on a perfectly still lake after the intrusion of an unwelcome thrown rock.

I yelled, "Knock an arrow and get ready for a fight, Ben!!!" Then I started yelling at the bear as I tried to follow my own advice. The bear started from about 250 yards out and was now approaching the 100 yard mark. I finally got an arrow ready and Ben was waving his bow back in forth above his head.

"HEY BEAR!!! HEY BEAR!!!! GET OUT OF HERE YOU (insert cuss words)!!!!!!" But he still kept coming. Ben was waving, Gauge was hackled up, and I tried one more time before it was an inevitable fight.

"HEY YOU (insert cuss words")!!!!!! GET OUT OF HERE!!!!!!" At this point it was more of a plea then an order.

When the bear was no more then 35 or 40 yards away, he stopped in his tracks, gave us that beady eye, head swaying look, turned around and retreated back the way he came. THANK GOD!!!! The whole episode lasted probably 15 seconds at most..

We both wanted our hearts to beat that fast that morning, but not under those circumstances.

I will say, Ben handled him self like a seasoned bear fighter and stood his ground and showed his salt for sure.

I asked him why he didn't bother to get any pictures... He said, "Same reason you didn't! I think we both had a pretty good excuse!"

I did tell him that since I was the last in line, and the bear had to get through him and Gauge before he got me, that if the bear DID get him, I would have been a good freind and would have made sure to put him down. What are friends for?

Todd

Great Story and Photos Todd thanks. Blake

yeah, Ben's skinny enough, you coulda got him to the truck without field dressin'....  :D

I've heard that Ben comes equipped with his own bear repellent spray. It can make even the angriest beast eyes water.

Quote from Ben Saye...

"Anyone can make people feel a little uncomfortable by farting in a closed car with the heater running, but the real trick is to make people's eye's water while in the open air"

"Today was a classic example of open-air farting".

That is a great story and good recovery!!

Brett

Chris that saying was uttered more than once during the hunt. Ben is a class act for sure, but that man can clear the meadow!

Good story,  but WE WANT MORE!!  This is taking entirely too long.

Now guys that week was only a flute.I normaly only pass gas once a year!I want to say though Todd was the most gracious host I've ever experienced. His father Les should be and is very proud of him. From the first minute of the hunt he treated us as if he had known us all his life in typical Tradgang fashion.He is one heck of a cook too!His elk steak spaghetti was outstanding!Now Tom,Chris and Tracy on with the show!

Here's my first day bull called into 5yds. I had a blast watching him feed away and calling him back time after time.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/1.jpg)


He had a beautiful hide and a unique rack with his inner eye guards pointing downward and his outers pointing strait upward. At one point he was standing on the other side of the spruce tree I was hiding in and I could hear him breathing. Hows that for close?

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/2.jpg)

He gave me plenty of good shots thats for sure. With only a spike tag in my pocket I was injoying the show and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/3.jpg)

What a beautiful country we live in!!

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/4.jpg)

Love this pick : )

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/5.jpg)

Great pictures Tracy.

Todd's a great shot and a heck of a camp cook.
(http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/6.jpg)
Chris,Grinning all the time even while shooting
    (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/7.jpg)
I wouldn't want to walk in front of Tom if I was a elk or mule deer.
    (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/8.jpg)

    (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/9.jpg)

    (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/10.jpg)

    (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/11.jpg)

(http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/12.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/13.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/14.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/15.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/16.jpg)

I'll echo Ben's statements.  Les and Todd are awesome and deserve a huge thank you.

Here is the story of my last night in stand.  Remember I only have a cow elk or spike elk tag in my pocket.

I was sitting on a north facing ridge of a small bowl with a meadow in the middle.  I had used a tree stand to hunt this spot for several days during my stay.  It was 7:45pm and I figured it was now or never so I gave the reed call another slow drawn out excited cow call. 45 seconds later the two bulls, a 5x6 and a 5x4 enter the meadow above me.  The 5x6 proceeds to punish a small set of aspen trees. I'm guessing that he realized his location was in full view of the location he heard the cow calls coming from just seconds earlier.  He was showing off in an effort to impress a lone cow. The 5x4 continues down a trail that my tree stand was set over just last night and goes down to the wallow.  I called several more times but tonight the other bulls and cows are not coming to this meadow.

The previous night I was sitting out in the meadow as I heard multiple elk as they mewed, chirped, and even estrus whined before they thundered down the dark timber that I am sitting in tonight. But changing the stand location didn't give me a chance at them on this night as they must have stayed somewhere else.
I am left to listen and watch two bulls I would have shot in a heartbeat if I would have only had the tag. They continue to practice for the upcoming rut. After the 5x6 left to go down to the wallow he started to give some nervous grunts in an attempt to get the cow he has heard to come out into the meadow with him.  I continue to call in a desperate attempt to pull any cows in the area to my stand. It's the last night and I was really hoping a miracle would happen and I would get a chance to punch my tag.   Finally the 5x6 is tired of this cow that won't come out to the open and reward his thrashing and wallowing with her presence by his side. He moves up out of the meadow back to his original position as if to give her one more look. I lose track of him for a short period of time.  It is now almost completely dark and suddenly I see him above me.  Within seconds he is in full gallop coming down the hill effortlessly bounding over down trees. He skids to a stop 10 yards from my stand in the darkness.  Slowly after about a minute he turns to leave as if to say "the hell with you"!

Given the fact that this 5x6 was running around acting like a stud and we were told that their was a 7x8 seen on this same mountain, I'm sure the rut in Utah is a sight to behold.

I never got a shot opportunity at an elk, but this image will stick in my mind for a long time.  

   (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/th_Utahelkhunt239.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/?action=view¤t=Utahelkhunt239.flv)

Awesome!    :clapper:

Do you guys see the size of that sage bush!!!??? Holy cow....

Great pictures.

I would just like to say that it was my absolute honor to have you fine fellows around. Can't wait until you can make it back.

Chris, I feel bad a cow never came by bud. Great footage.

Can't wait until the rest...

Todd

More pictures...

Tracy talking...it comes easy for him LOL
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt006.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt014.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt049.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt051.jpg)

What a problem to have...bulls that are "too big"...that's awesome video Chris!

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt132.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt137.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt145.jpg)

Sweet pics guys.  Awesome vid Chris.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt174.jpg)

This is an spike elk skull I found that was still in pretty good shape.  I figured it was good karma and it turned out that I had a shot at a buck that evening but I managed to screw it up.  I'll tell that story later.   :knothead:  

Still it was a great find.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt114.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt116.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt021.jpg)

Pretty shakey video but he was at 12 yards and I was afraid he would spook.


 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/th_Utahelkhunt238.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/?action=view¤t=Utahelkhunt238.flv)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt135.jpg)

This is what your left with after spooking an elk at 40 yards.

no way this should be on pg. 2

I'll finish up my story.   I hadn't seen any bucks except for a little spike on the first day. It actually got to the point that I saw so many does that I wasn't expecting to see a buck.  I had a wierd spectator feel with this hunt in that I started taking more pictures and being less careful while on stand.  I'm not complaining because I was having a blast watching the bulls and does.  Unfortunately the effort to get some cool pics cost me in the end.

On my fifth night out I had two bulls come running down the hill which I'm guessing are the same two bulls I saw on my last night in my earlier post.  The stayed in the black timber and my stand was still positioned out on the meadow edge at this point.  I saw one of the bulls step out into the meadow but he was 70 yards downhill from me and then he quickly went back into the timber.  I could hear them walking around in the timber with their hooves hitting down trees as they walked around. At one point I heard their antlers tickling around in some light sparing. I was calling to them intermittently hoping they would come back out or that more elk in the area might come to join them.  For some reason I had switched to a spectator mode that was more curiousity than predator archer. I can't really explain why this happened because I came into this hunt desperate to finally make this a successful hunt out west.  

Unfortunately this is where the story takes a bad turn.  I had just given a couple of light calf calls when I heard heavy foot steps in the dark timber and they were close.  I still had my camera in my hand at this point and for some reason I didn't put it up.  I never considered it wouldn't be the two bulls I had seen earlier.  NEVER ASSUME! I wish I had headed this warning as I stood flat footed on my stand as a nice 3x3 mule deer buck walked out of the clearing and proceeded to look directly at me.  I know I subconciously said "oh ****"!  I should have just stood still but at 8 yards it might not have made a difference.  I slowly slid my camera back into my pocket.  By the time I got my right hand up to the string the buck was turning back into the timber.  I heard him make a strange grunting sound at that point.  Then he turned and headed for a clearing.  As his head went behind a tree I drew and held until his shoulder blade cleared the tree.  I was rock solid at full draw and the shot felt great as I let it go.  The buck was already on alert and I should have anticipated his drop but still I think it was extreme as I could see him roll and drop to the point I saw his underside as the arrow was upon him.  I thought I hit him but was afraid the shot had entered his flank.  After dark I found the arrow and it was completely clean.  

I'm left to laugh but also curse myself for my lack of focus.  I just never fathomed that it would be anything but those bulls.

These are some of the most beautiful pictures I've seen!!!  WOW!!!!

The buck came out right in front of the aspen in the middle of the picture. As you can see the spruce tree blocked me from seeing them until he was out in the open.
 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt190.jpg)


He went back into the woods and I shot into this clearing.
 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/ckinslow/Utahelkhunt189.jpg)

 :knothead:    :knothead:    :knothead:    :banghead:    :banghead:    :banghead:

Great story, Chris. Thanks for sharing, and thanks once again for coming out. I have four more days to elk hunt, and I'll sure be thinking of you all while I'm up there.

Where's Tom?....

Todd

Yeah, Tom where are you????

"Where's Tom"

I'm Wondering the same thing Todd   :saywhat:  

I have more picks for ya but my dial up server's not working for some reason.

We will be pulling for ya buddy, I hope you guys have a great hunt.  :goldtooth:  

Tracy

Go get em Todd!

Chris

Good luck Todd! I'm afraid my season is down to a day. And I will only be able to hunt deer. Oh well. I will get some pics up soon.

Tom fell out of the truck somewhere on I-80 and hasn't been seen since.

great stuff guys. keep it coming.

Ben was a great hunting partner and we sure covered some ground, The view was incredible in most places.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/1-1.jpg)

The aspens were just starting to turn the last few days we were there, Sure would have liked to have been there when they were showing all the glory.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/2-1.jpg)

Here's Ryan resting a bit, I did my flatlander best at wearing him out. No such luck : ) that goes for Ben too.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/3-1.jpg)

I had a awsome time and I want to thank Todd for the invite. Camp was great, the food was even better and what can I say about the guys I hunted with. Tradgang folks are some of the best and I had the privalage of sharing camp with some of the greatest. Todd,Tom,Chris, Ben and Ryan you guys were great and I hope we can share camp again sometime.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/4-1.jpg)

Tracy

Tracy,

The pictures are great, man. It was a pleasure..

Todd

I want to interject a word thanks to you guy. Your stories at once fill my senses with sounds, and sights and smells that I dearly love.

As some who have been with this thread from the beginning know, I was supposed joint Todd and the gang on this trip to Todd's little slice of paradise.

As often happens, life has a way of changing plans and that's sure what it did to me.

I'd been struggling with back problems since back in early spring. I know the exact moment when I hurt it and did what I could immediately to help it heal.

As it turns out after months of chiropractic, physical therapy and toward the end epidural injections nothing seemed to get the job done.

I'd undergone the last series of shots when the time for my departure to places west. It was to start in Wyoming with my buds Vance "Iron Bull" Brewer, Joe"Whip" Lasch, and Jeff "Tippit" Springer. They'd on last years fishing trip on the St.Judes auction.

What had been a promising start degenerated into a terribly debilitating return of my back issues.
With the wisdom of cooler heads than my own I decided that the trip must be cancelled and the long trip home taken on.

After much debate it was worked out that I'd fly home and leave my truck in Wyoming. Through the generous nature of my buddies I made that trip and found my self in the hospital at home while my truck was shuttled down to the guys in Utah who then got it back to Missouri during their bun busting drive home at the end of this trip.

I learned a long time ago that lost hunts never are recovered and I was heart sick about losing this one.
The situation did, however, fill my heart with the warmth of true friendship and you can't put a price on that either.

I'm convalescing at home now with goals set for later this fall. But first I've got to work out the last leg of getting my truck home.

Thanks guys for the wonderful stories. They take me along like I was there and that's good enough until we do it the next time.

Great job! Good boy Gauge! All dogs go to heaven.

"If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die, I want to go where they went."
Will Rogers

Charlie,

It's good to see you this morning... Scratch that, It's great. I can't express in words what it means to me to have you join us on this hunt, even though you are only gracing us with your presence in text on this simple thread. Trust me friend, you were talked about much and thought about often, and all we can say is, we can't wait for you to join us next year...

That water hole (and many others) isn't going anywhere and niether are the elk.

Get well soon my friend....

Todd

QuoteOriginally posted by Tom Leemans:
Great job! Good boy Gauge! All dogs go to heaven.

"If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die, I want to go where they went."
Will Rogers

Tom,

Amen to that and thanks for posting.

Todd

Charlie, it sure seems like you were right there with them. They are dragging this thread out in pure Lamb fashion  :rolleyes:  Hope you are feeling better.

Now let's get on with it guys.   :campfire:    :coffee:

Sorry for the delay guys but Photobucket and my computer are not talking. So I'm struggling with photos. I'm not sure what is going on, posting photos has never been a problem in the past.

Hunting by Association

Unbeknownst to me at the time, the groundwork for a future elk hunt was being laid-out for the past few years by Trad Gang members Tracy Potter, (K.S.Trapper) and Todd Thayn (Just_A_Hunter) and by association their plans would be putting another traditional hunt in my future. This is the tale of that hunt and the friendships that have come from the quest.

Back in the early part of this year, March I believe, my buddy, Chris Kinslow, invited me on another western adventure, this time in the state with red rock pillars, arches and deep sage brush lined canyons....Utah!

By association, I was fortunate enough to be a member of another great traditional archery camp. The host of our camp would be Todd Thayn a Utah native. Having never met before, Todd, with true Trad Gang hospitality, opened his camp and his family's treasured hunting ground to me and a handful of other TG members with the faith that we would not betray the trust that he has bestowed upon us. With that in mind, this tale will not name any mountain ranges, peaks, valleys, creeks or landmarks so that I can guard the trust of a new friend.

Heading West

Finally the day had arrived! Friday, Friday, Friday! 12:30 and the black F250 was sitting in the Kinslow drive as Chris' gear was being loaded. By 2:00 we see the smiling faces of Ben Saye (ksbowman) and Tracy Potter (K.S.Trapper) at the 3rd Lawrence, Kansas exit where we connected to the heavily packed trailer to begin our journey. By 3:00 o'clock after some unplanned wiring problems, we were off! Ben had the problem solved and we were on I70 heading west! The total trip time was expected to fall within the 14 hour time frame. So, with the hum of the tires and the purr of the seven liter diesel engine in the background, Ben entertained us with the crazy stories only and iron worker can have, Tracy enticed us with stories relayed to him by Todd and we all talked with excitement of the hunt that we were about to experience while we chased the sun as it fell towards the western horizon.

By 05:00 on Saturday we found ourselves in a small town in Utah and only an hour or so from our final destination. The morning sun lit our way up the mountain as the truck climbed the narrow dusting gravel road carrying us closer to the spot that would be our home for the next seven days. As we ascended through the low desert Oak Brush, I was in ah of the terrain and astounded at the quantity of animals we were seeing. With every turn in the road another Mule Deer was spotted!  Does and fawns are everywhere! Having a Mule Deer tag in my pack, I was excited at what I was seeing. Where there are does, there have to be bucks....right?! With our faces gawking out the windows, the crew cab truck climbed the twisting mountain road with Tracy at the helm. Eventually the main gravel mountain road was left for the rough, rutted, dirt camp road. Ahead of us lies the place that we will call home in the Utah Mountains. Our camp, located above the Oak Brush desert and nestled under the green leaf Aspen tree canopy, was to consist of Todd Thayn, Charlie Lamb, Chris Kinslow, Tracy Potter, Ben Saye, Ryan Stedman and me. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond his control, Charlie could not make it. We missed you Charlie and thought about you often.

Upon arrival we were promptly greeted by Todd's family and where made to feel welcome from the beginning. Todd, the hunter that he is, was out in the bush with his trusty sidekick Gage so meeting them would come later. Within a few hours camp was setup and the hunt was on!

Getting to know the Mountain

By 10:00 or 11:00 Saturday morning I was trekking to the north and Chris was headed west. The map that I held showed several lakes to the north and my goal was to scout as many of these lakes as possible, looking for Elk and Mule Deer activity. The southwesterly wind, blowing at 10+ mph, was not in my favor as I made my way into the bush but if the wind direction remained the same, the hunt back towards camp would put the wind in my face at a time when the animals are the most active.

  (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Camp.jpg)
Aview back towards camp

The sky was clear and the day was warm, hot for the animals, with the temps in the mid to high 80's or low 90's. Passing over a ridge that put the camp a quarter of a mile away, I felt like I was finally hunting! My surroundings consisted of open rolling grasslands intermixed with sage and pockets of waist and head-high brush. The low lying parts of the draws that lead up the mountain were nestled in a mix of Quaking Aspens, Spruce and Ponderosa Pines.

Within the first half mile I had positioned myself on the south face of a hillside to glass a semi open field and within 10 minutes of sitting there I heard a stick snap behind me. I eased my head around to the east (right) to see a coyote about fifteen yards behind me trotting for cover in the Aspen tree line. Dang-it! I forgot to ask if coyotes were legal. Continuing south and a half hour later I again cross paths with another coyote. This time 10 to 15 yards to my northeast sleeping under a bush! The dog gets my wind and bolts for cover, looking over its shoulder as it runs trying to get a look at me. Ha ha...I love seeing coyotes!

I still hunted my way along the edge of the draws remaining in the shadows as much as possible repeating theses steps: move a few feet, stop, look, listen, glass, look, listen and move again. The progress was slow but I was seeing a lot of animals. Mule deer does and fawns were everywhere and their tolerance of my close proximity to them was incredible.

  (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Doe.jpg)

The ground that I was exploring fell within the 8500' to 9000' elevation range and the ponds that I setout to investigate turned out mostly to be dried depressions in the landscape. Occasionally, one of the ponds would show traces of water, more like a bog then a pond, but no sign of elk or deer activity.

At round 9500' I encountered a rail fence, one of many that I came across on this trip that stretched for miles like a zipper over the mountainous terrain.

  (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Fence.jpg)

Before crossing this particular fence I had to make my way through a thick stand of willows and the thought of aggressive bears kept entering my mind with every push through the dense vegetation. Todd had warned us several times before this hunt that the black bears in this area can be aggressive.  A great relieve came over me after exiting the willows and emerging into the open meadow on the other side. To my delight I encountered this on the eastern side of the willow patch...

  (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ElkRub1.jpg)

Elk sigh! What a great sight to see!

As I stood at the rail fence I could hear, coming from my east, the familiar clang of a near by bell mare. Horses...hmmmm Last year I remember the elk seem to be attracted to the sounds of the horses as they plodded along on the mountain trails. I began to wonder if that scenario would hold true in this part of our nation.

Parting from the fence and hugging an Aspen tree-line, I shadowed the horses as they grazed 50 yards away to my south. As I slipped along the edge of the trees I was suddenly startled (actually I had the crap scared out of me) when I heard a loud crash and the sound of pounding earth approaching quickly from behind me. The first thing that entered my mind was "OH CRAP BEAR!"  The crash came from the wood fence, the sound of two large pieces of wood being smashed together and the pounding earth was definitely something running in my direction and closing the gap extremely fast! Quickly, I did a left spin and positioned myself 15' or so into the trees and began nocking an arrow, when suddenly, a bay colored horse emerged onto the trail south of my position. "Good Grief!" I thought to myself "I sure don't need anymore excitement like that!" With weak knees and shaking hands I opted to leave the commotion of the horses and start hunting my way back to camp.

By this time it was around 5:00 and at the pace I had been moving it would take me three hours to make it back to camp. Turning in to the wind I began still hunting my way back down the mountain through the Aspen grove draws, continuing to seek out the water features shown on the map. Like the morning and early afternoon hunt, Mule Deer does and fawns could be seen often as I descended. Around 6:30 I entered an island of Aspen trees that had a well worn path through it and to the west was a small water hole. As I looked to the water hole I noticed splashing coming from the center of the pond. "Hmmm...there must be fish stuck in the shallows of the pond" I thought to myself. "I'll ease down there and check it out."  As I started to walk down to the water I caught movement of a large tan body moving in the Aspens above the water hole. "Elk!" the voice in my head screams and I dropped to the ground like a rag doll. Dang-it! I got careless and walked out into the opening of the small meadow that lead to the water hole without checking the surrounding trees.

So there I set pinned down in the waist high grass 50 – 60 yards away from the biggest elk I have ever encountered. A huge 6 x 6! I watched him for about five minutes as he grazed from the low hanging branches of the Aspen trees that grew from his elevated throne over looking the small meadow that I had stumbled into. Luckily, his head was turned at the time I spotted him and the wind was in my favor. Casually the bull sauntered to the west allowing me a chance to crawl into the tree line of the Aspen Island. I positioned myself behind a large trunk as the big bull laid down overlooking the water hole and meadow. With my back to the bull I presented him with a few cow calls, intending to get the bull to move closer to me so that I could experience a bull of his size up close and maybe get a few pictures. But no luck...he wasn't ready to be social and the cow calls only made him disappear over the horizon of his outlook. Sorry no good pictures.

  (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/BullsBed.jpg)
View from the bull's bed

My hunt for the first day ended around 8:00 with no other encounters. Returning back to camp I was greeted and met for the first time my host and new friend Todd. That evening was spent around the campfire eating and telling tales a great beginning to a weeks worth of Utah hunting.

  (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Campfire1.jpg)

Todd the pleasure was all mine buddy  :D  and I can't wait to do it again.

Excellent start Tom  :thumbsup:  Just like being there all over again.

Charlie, I'm so glad you are feeling better and we will get your truck back to you soon even if I have to drive it over to you.

Tracy

EXELLENT START!!!

Todd

Way to go buddy! Nice to finally have you along.

We all have talked about this previously but I can't help but reiterate how the friendships made through Trad Gang have affected my life.  I've spent the better part of the last two years shooting at targets with Tom and chasing animals here in Missouri and out west.  Tracy and Ben will be life long friends that are welcome in my camp any day.

Todd and his family are amazing and they exemplify Trad Gang as they welcome virtual strangers into their lives and trust them to care for their hunting grounds like we would our own.  Thanks you guys again for giving me an adventure that I will reflect upon when I am an old man and remember fondly.
Continue on Tom!

Tom, Great start to the week of blissful hunting we all experienced. I see you see you still have the articulate story telling you're known for with superb pictures!Charley I look forward to meeting you someday I was sure wanting it to be on this hunt.I'll sprinkle in some pics along the way ,but with the tales the rest of you kick in I pale in comparison.I've never shared a camp with a better group of men!   Ben

Chorus of the Hounds

Wakeup call, like most mornings, was 5:30 that Sunday. A much needed rest was had through the night after 32 hours of staying wake for our epic dash to and hunt in Utah. By first light we were in the field and again this day I would be hunting alone. The feeling of heading into the mountains alone brings a sense of satisfaction and excitement. Whatever happens, good or bad, success or defeat would ride on my shoulders and the adventure in the field will only make me a better hunter.

The early morning hours, before sunrise, brought the erratic tapping at the rain-fly of my tent telling me that a light rain was falling. By wakeup call the rain had dwindled to a light drizzle. This, I thought to myself, will be good. The moisture will help silence the dry vegetation under foot.

With raingear on, I once again follow the compass needle north, beginning my route in the same direction as the day before. When I reached the half mile mark from camp I positioned myself on the highest knoll in the area and began to glass the mountain slopes to the north and northwest. The towering peak of the mountain was then cloaked in a veil of low, slow moving, gray clouds that brought the rains of the early morning.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/MainPeaktotheNorth-1.jpg)

To my delight I spied elk! Cows I think. They were approximately two miles out, grazing in the open meadows at the edge of tree line next to a slip rock chute. "Dang" I think to myself "that's two miles as the crow flies, easily a 1.5 to 2 hour fast paced trek from where I stood. To add to the dilemma, the wind was coming from the east and the elk were at an elevation of 10K – 11K. I elected to be content with watching the four elk until they disappeared into the timber and then planned out a route that would take me into that area later in the day. As I stood on the knoll with the cool breeze parting its way around me, I and all who were listening were serenaded by the baying hounds that had been turned loose south of our camp down in the Oak Brush. Their excitement could be felt as their eager cries reverberated through the mountains. I resumed my hunt, still hunting northward through an Aspen shrouded drainages that would eventually take me to the ridge leading to the peak that held the grazing elk.

To Shoot or not to Shoot

The morning was filled with numerous Mule Deer sightings. Again does and fawns suddenly appeared, stood broadside and pogo themselves away from me in countless areas of the hunt but no bucks were seen. The sign posts of the bull elk stood everywhere I ventured on that morning hunt but no sightings.

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Rub3.jpg)

For lunch I situated myself at the end point of a long north / south ridge just below the crest of the ridge so not to skyline my form. There I ate, glassed the wide open mountain meadow and added entries to my journal with the company of four does and a fawn down the ridge to my northwest.

The 9200' lunch time ridge had put me at the northern most region of the draw that cradled all the ponds shown on the map. It was time to start heading east and leave the ponds, that only had signs of cattle activity around them, behind and make my way to a draw that would take me to higher elevations.

Around 2:00 I found myself faced with a dilemma. A buck and a doe mule deer had been startle from their beds by the swirling south / southeasterly winds that had announces my arrival and made the pair spring from their new growth aspen sanctuary and hurdle the east west rail fence that lay to my north. The 3 x 3 short tined, 1.5 year old buck made a short sprint to the south and then stopped and stood broadside to me at 30 – 35 yards. With an arrow nocked I stood facing the young buck wrestling with the question, shoot or don't shoot? Doubt entered my mind as I looked at the small vital area and the distance my arrow would have to cover to make a quick kill. I contemplated...if the end of the week was close I would gladly shoot this buck, but on my first full day, I just couldn't do it. He just wasn't the buck for me. Un-nocking my arrow and walking away I turned a few times to look back at the buck that I had past up with a nagging voice in my head saying "are you sure you want to do this?" With hesitation I continued my upward trek to the west.

The Long Hike Home

A few hours later, around 5:00, I came to a wall in the terrain. At 10400' I was looking at a ridge that forced me to go down the mountain on a well traveled trail that hugged the terrain features of the steep northeasterly facing ridge. Down the mountain trail I loped, where I eventually came to a pretty little clear pond and on the north end of the pond was what I had been looking for...BINGO! a murky watered wallow!

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Wallow1.jpg)

"Hot dog!" I thought to myself, this is what I have been looking for. I quickly surveyed the area and decide on a place that would work for an ambush. There was only one place where I could conceal myself and have a reasonable shot opportunity but it would require a southwest wind to make it work. I went to the spot, 35 yards east of the wallow and cleared the ground and some vegetation to make a ground blind, took a few practice shots and got out of the area. The wind for that night was not right for sitting the wallow. So leaving was my best option for the night.

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ShotatWallow1.jpg)
View from the wallow towards the ground blind

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ShottoWallow1.jpg)
Distance form the ground blind to the wallow

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ShottoWallow2.jpg)
View from the blind to the wallow

Following the contours of the mountain, I made my way south until I eventually stumbled onto the main mountain road and followed it for a mile or so back down to camp. In camp I met up with Todd and had some one on one time talking to and getting to know my host. That night's dinner, made by Todd, was BBQ elk, Texas feral pork and a concoction of beans, meat and cheese.... oooh yeah beans just want Ben needs.

Hey Tracy how do you know when Ben is awake?    :biglaugh:

Well told story, thanks for taking the time and effort to make it fun for all of us!

Looking forward to how this ends!!!

that little buck doesn't know how lucky he is....  :eek:    :readit:

Great stuff Tom. Thanks so much for taking us along.   :campfire:

:campfire:    :archer:    :clapper:

Ahhh Screw the Wind

My night's sleep are restless, the air mattress that I brought has a leak in it somewhere and by 01:00 or 02:00 I find myself lying on the hard lumpy ground. Ha ha. In the predawn hours we all gather in Tracy's cook tent for a quick hot meal prepared in the glow of the Colman lantern. Scrambled eggs and bacon wrapped in a flour tortilla shell and Pepsi for my caffeine buzz did it for me. Oh and I can't forget the four Ibuprofen's that was needed to kick-start my muscles.

This day, Monday, Chris and I spent hunting the same areas together. The plan was to hunt the lower area below camp through the oak brush in the AM for Mule Deer and a salt lick that Tracy discovered higher on the mountain in the PM. It was good to be hunting with my hunting partner and friend again. Maybe one of these days we will actually get to see one another harvest an animal.

By 06:30 or 07:00 Chris and I found ourselves wishing each other luck and parting ways. Chris's intended path took him in a southwesterly heading while mine at that moment would take me directly into the southeasterly wind.

The terrain in the oak brush flats is made up of rocky soil, short to calf high grass, knee to waist high brush and waist high to 12' tall oak brush. The leaf of the oak brush reminds me of the leaves on a white oak tree but smaller and a lot of the plants hold cluster of small acorns at the tips of their branches. The challenge of this area is to scan far ahead to catch the deer moving through the brush without them see us. The problem I was having was moving quietly through the dried leaves that lay on the bare soil and being able to see far enough ahead through the oak brush to see the deer move. For the deer, seeing long distances through the brush was easy. Ha ha... They have created a brows line about 4 or 4.5' above the ground which allowed them to cruise through the area and pick off our movement long before we ever saw them.

The best technique that I found for hunting the flats was to slowly move five yards, kneel, glass my surroundings, remain in that spot for 10 minutes and then advance another five yards. A very slow hunting style that was a little hard on the knees, with all the squatting and kneeling but effective for seeing deer. The only problem was no bucks. Hmm the buck from yesterday was starting to look good. Ha ha.

Watching the feather that hangs from the upper limb of my bow, I learn that the wind is not helping my hunt any. The once southeasterly current changed to southwest, north, northeast, south, northwest... you get the picture all I was doing was duck walking in circles. Finally I said screw the wind I'm going to explore.

Eventually I ended up .125 mile north of where I started over looking a dry creek bed that had a pool of water that may have equated to about 100 gallons. Sighs around the pool showed that this was a hot spot for the deer to quench their thirst. So I cleared a spot out on the hillside overlooking the pool and set with my back against a large boulder and knee high brush in front of me to breakup my form, and there I set until 11:30. The only action I saw was guy putting by on an ATV but he never saw me. Ha – apparently a Derby hat doesn't stand out that bad.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/DSCN3632.jpg)

Men Building Forts and the Addicted Doe

With the morning hunt being a bust, Chris and I return to camp ready to converge on Tracy and ask him to show us where the salt lick that he found is located. The word from Tracy is the salt lick is located directly off a trail connecting to an emergency forest cabin, and the lick has hundreds of deer prints surrounding it. When a guy like Tracy, who has been trapping for many years, tells me that he has found a hot spot I tend to listen to what he has to say.

After a quick bite to eat, Tracy graciously escorts us up to the salt lick. Our route takes us a half mile or less past the point where I had emerged from the forest and onto the road the night before. From the start the lick looks like a hot spot! As we walk towards the little pocketed opening that covets the salt lick we spy three does browsing around the area. Yep, Tracy is right the deer seem to be using this area a lot. After a quick tour Tracy wishes us luck and leaves us to our hunt.

The best time to hunt a place is when it is first found and we were hoping that we had hit this spot at the right time. The time was somewhere around 2:00 o'clock. First order of business was to figure out where we were going to setup. Chris gave me first pick. Hmmm was I going to perch myself up high or on the ground? Guard the salt lick or setup on the one of the arteries leading to the heart of the action.

I pick a natural ground blind east of the salt lick and north of a well worn trail leading to the salty treat. Chris, setup as the sentry southeast of the lick. With saws and pruners in hand we carved out ambush hideouts. I was thrilled with my setup! With a tree seat strapped to the shadow shrouded trunk of a large spruce tree I felt invisible! After a few snips and tucks and with the ground cleared under foot I was set. Bring on the deer.

The trail that I was to watch over was to my south about 15 yards and I felt confident that this was a killing spot. Confidence in ones setup is all it takes to keep a hunter pinned in a particular location and I had that! Dang I wish I had taken some pictures! Minutes later Chris was set up and ready to take care of business from his nest. At 4:00 we wished each other luck and I depart to my hide that lies 50 or so yard east, but out of site, of Chris.

At 6:30, after sitting in the shade for the past two hours, I find myself shivering from the steady wind the passes through my thin polyester shirt and dummy me, didn't bring and insulation layer. About that time the first doe appears. The minor trembling from the cold suddenly turned to borderline convulsions at the mere sight of the deer passing by. Ha ha. Five minutes later another doe appears from the east. An hour passed and finally another deer emerges, again from the east. None of the deer had a clue I was in the area and only once did a doe catch Chris' wind.

As far a stealthiness, the night was a complete success but no bucks showed themselves. When meeting back up with Chris, I found out that all the tracks around the salt lick weren't made by a bunch of deer the tracks were made by a single doe with an addiction to salt.

just_a_hunter,

Congratulations and great job!

I had the same thing happen with a mule deer doe last year.  While the arrow was in mid-flight the deer swapped ends and it went in and out diagonally.  I think I got an artery and she expired in less than 30 seconds.

That's why I build my arrows for maximum penetration, because you never know whats going to happen when the arrow leaves your bow.

ahem!!

Hmmm... I seem to be carrying this thread now. What happen to the rest of you guys?    :saywhat:

just you, Tommy Boy...good thing you've got broad shoulders...  :bigsmyl:

Going to the High Country

Tuesday 8/25/09, a new day had arrived but it still felt like night. 04:30 and my camp mates were beginning to stir about. "Uuuug..." I think to myself "move" I command of my muscles. Z-i-p, z-i-p, z-i-p, I emerge from my nylon den. The morning is cool but not uncomfortable. As it has been all week, the temperature was in the mid to high 40's or low 50's during the night. The onyx sky was free of clouds and the constellations that suspended overhead twinkled with gem like brilliance as we converged on the glowing cook tent. New day greetings were made and hunting strategies were being hashed out as we prepared and consumed our morning nourishment.

On this day I again would be hunting with Chris. Chris is an athletic 33 year old with the endurance that would make a billy goat cry uncle. So keeping up with him can, at times, test my salt! Our goal was to hunt the high country's north facing slopes and go into the places where most people would look at and say "lets not and say we did." Today would be a day of testing my endurance and a day to go light.

We seal ourselves in the big Ford and let her carry us down the mountain through the oak brush flats and listen to her growl as she hauls us back up the mountain until we come to the end of the road. 30 minutes later we were about 2.5 or 3 miles north of camp at the lower edge of the high country and the sun was beginning to peek over the eastern horizon. With cow calls in hand and mouth we began our crafty ascent up the mountain into the dark timber.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisandSunrise.jpg)

Clinging to the shadows we both cow called as we climbed, at one point I stopped to break sticks and aggressively worked a spruce tree over with a dried log, trying to simulate the sounds of a bull sparing with a tree, but there was no response from our quarry.

Within the first half hour movement was detected. "Coyote" Chris says in an aggressive whisper as he points to the meadow's edge that lies 25 yards up the mountain. Without words, we both spit from one another and melt into the dark spruce surroundings. Mouse squeaks are made and the coyote briefly appears at the edge of the forest and then disappears to the south never to be seen by us again. After a few more squeaks, to assure ourselves that the dog had left the area, we remerge from the shadows and once again begin ascending and cow calling our way up the mountain.

Skirting the meadows and staying in the shadows as we moved, we once again found ourselves setting up for a coyote ambush on a dog that was howling nearby. Quickly we broke off from that setup and agreed that we would rather elk hunt than coyote hunt. Within and hour or so of starting our hunt we came to a grand sight. A slip rock field with a fabulous view that seem to extend forever... Sometimes you have to take a few moments to stop and say WOW. This was one of those moments.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisandSlipRock2.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisandSlipRock3.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisandSlipRock4.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisandSlipRock5.jpg)


That's Probably Not a Picture we want to Post on Trad Gang

Continuing west, up, up, up we went. Cow calling occasionally but never getting any return calls. Hmmm...I felt as if we were hunting blind. No rubs, beds, scat or sign of elk anywhere.

Wandering the mountain side we eventually stumbled onto elk sign. Not an enormous amount of it and very little fresh scat but still, elk sign the same. The sign we found was a well worn trail through the forest that stayed in the heart of the dark timber as it snaked its way along the north face of the mountain to a shelf at the edge of tree line. Cow calling and moving slowly with the wind in our favor, we eventually made contact! Holy Crap! No warning no return calls just a sudden eruption of pounding hooves from a single elk that had been laying down about 30 yards ahead of us. We stood slack jawed in disbelief as we listened to the elk bulldoze its way through the forest's southern slope. Suddenly we found ourselves scrabbling to get into our positions, Chris took point and I dropped back down the mountain 50 yards behind him and laid behind a fallen log and began to call! I cow called for a while doing a mix of lost cow / lost calf calls and estrus cow calls and eventually mixing in the sound of a bull sparing with a tree, but still not response. After a few minutes of calling, we broke from the setup and investigated the shelf from where the elk had sprung to life and found all kinds of fresh sign. Numerous beds, fresh pee and warm scat along with a few rubs littered the shelf. No doubt we found our quarry but we were missing a major piece of the puzzle needed to get close to these beasts and for the life of us we couldn't nail that one thing down.

Thrilled to have at least a semi close encounter we pushed upward and emerged from the dark timber onto a small slope at tree line. It was here where we stopped for a snack and posed for a few pictures to use in the days when we are to old to make a trip like this and find ourselves longing for a high country adventure. Maybe the photos will help sooth the pain of no longer being able to climb through the dark timber to the high country to see its expansive views.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisPanPic1.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisatFullDraw1.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/PeakShot1.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisatTreeLine1.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/TomFullDraw1.jpg)

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Peak4.jpg)

And of course the picture Chris was hoping I wouldn't post. Ha ha ha...he should know better.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/TomandChris.jpg)

Thunder, Lighting and Elk with Bionic Vision

After reclining at 11200' and going over the TOPO map to figure out our next move, Chris and I shoulder our packs and slipped back into the dense spruce forest to began our descend to the northeast along a steep north facing ridge. By that time the thermals were rising so again, the wind was in our favor.

For our plunge down the mountain, Chris and I split up. We decided on a 30 yard space of separation between us and we would stay in contact with each other by occasionally using our cow calls as a locator mark. This worked pretty good. After getting a reading from my compass, I pointed myself in the right direction and started the descent. When possible, my most desired footing was the thick sponge like spruce needle forest floor but often times those areas weren't available. Without the well worn path of the elk trail I found myself making an incredible amount of noise as I moved. Pine cones cracked, stick snapping and died fallen tree trunks popped when I crossed over them. I was alerting every creature in the forest of my presents. I stopped to listen for Chris and scan the surrounding area but I couldn't see or hear him. "Wow he is a lot stealthier then me" I think to myself. After a few minutes of stalking we cow call to each other and meet back up. It turns out that he couldn't hear me either. Really...all the noise I was making and he didn't hear me...that's interesting. That made me wonder if the elk from earlier that morning heard us or did we scare the carp out of him by suddenly appearing.

Thirty of forty minutes later we stop at an opening in the trees along the north edge of the ridge. This was another one of those spots where we needed to stop and take pity on the people that never venture out to do this kind of stuff.

Here we are doing a little posing.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/NiceView1.jpg)


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Posing2.jpg)


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Posing1.jpg)


The aroma of the spruce needles was thick and invigorating to inhale, I love the smell of the mountains! As we set gazing out into distant valley, we heard a loud crack of thunder. Gazing to the east we could see a storm brewing and with it, it brought lighting. Being at an elevation of around 10K, lighting was not a good thing to have around. We descended the steep north face to get ourselves off the ridge and waited at the lower elevation to see if the storm was going to pass over us. Once we were confident the storm would not pass over us we climbed our way back to the top of the ridge and made our way over the mountain to open country on the southeast side.

On the high mountain meadow we again had a spectacular view of the surrounding country and the storm passing over the distant desert flat lands.


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Storm1.jpg)


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ChrisandStorm.jpg)


Eventually the rain did make its way over to us and remember when I said I was going to go light? Well guess who didn't bring a rain jacket. Luckily I brought a 6' x 8' light weight tarp and was able to stay dry under it. Here we are before the rain.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/SnackBreak.jpg)


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/CaughtintheRain.jpg)

We eventually did see elk on this day's hunting trip. After we got back to the truck and cruised down the mountain a short distance, we got out and Chris saw three cows in an open meadow approximately a half mile away. Let me repeat that. These elk were a half mile away! As we stood within the Aspen tree line, discussing how to get up to them undetected, I relayed to Chris (as I watch the elk through my binoculars) that they were looking at us. Less than a minute later the trio turned and pranced into the forest never to be seen again. No way did they get our wind and for them to see us at that distances seems impossible to me. There was an eagle flying about treetop high over them when they lit out but the fact that they looked in our direction and then took off seemed amazing to me! Anyway, to say we were both a little dumbfounded is an understatement.

That evening, we gave the oak brush flats one more chance with about the same results as the prior morning. Crazy wind currents, lots of does and fawns but no bucks, but we were still having a great time!

Tom, EXELLENT write up, man.... Great read!

I just got back in from the morning hunt.

The elk are turning on pretty good. I have had a few close encounters.

The bears are killing me... I hit one with a rock this morning so it would quit following me. He was just a little guy, barely bigger then Gauge, and his curiosity left him with a very sore shoulder.... That makes six visually seen so far this year.....

Of course now that deer season is over, they are really coming out of the wood work. I was 20 yards from a great 3x3 this morning... Pictures to follow.

I'm headed to town. One more day to hunt.

Thanks again, and Tom, WOW man......

Todd

Thanks Todd!

Glad to hear from you brother. That bear was only lonely. He needed a friend.    :pray:

Hunting the Wallow

Counting this day, there were three days left to get the job done and hunting the wallow was in order. 07:30, I was setup in the ground blind and ready for action. There I sat until 11:30 on my foam pad scanning the westerly slope looking for movement but saw none. The one thing I didn't take in account for this particular setup was the sun. I was baking and there was no way to get out of the sun and stay in the blind. The longer I set the more I would fidget so a move was in order. To the south was a stand of large spruce trees with low hanging branches that offered shade and a natural blind. To the trees I headed.

The wind current in front of and under the spruce looked good so I cleared out a spot and sat that spot until 2:30 without seeing any action. I did hear something blow at one point but no visual was made. So the wallow turned out to be a bust. Too bad... I was pumped up about that spot.


 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/WallowSit.jpg)
Sitting the wallow


 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/WallowPond.jpg)
The pretty little wallow pond

For the evening hunt, I hunted south of camp in a large aspen grove that eventually turned to oak brush. There was talk of a couple of buck running through the area

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Aspens1.jpg)
The Aspen Grove

I still hunted this area and saw a lot of deer inhabiting the grove but no bucks.

That night, Wednesday, was Todd's last day in camp and Ryan's first evening in camp. Saying goodbye to Todd was unpleasant but we were all glad of the time we did get to spend with him. Oh yeah, he filled his buck tag that morning! In the oak brush no less! Congratulations again buddy.

Here is our parting photo. It's not very good. Hopefully Ryan has a better picture that he can share.

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/UtahGang.jpg)
L - R: Todd, (Gage), Ryan in the back, Tracy, Ben, Tom and Chris

 (http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/BonFire.jpg)
First fire without Todd

:clapper:     :clapper:    :clapper:

Vary nice guys I truly enjoyed you taking us along.

Beautiful and majestic country and wildlife!

I arrived at camp with only a half hour of daylight left. Everyone was out chasing a critter or two, except Todd, who was trying to take camp down. After quick introductions, I jumped in to get his camp down, as to enjoy his company, and give me a chance to talk to this wonderful guy.

As the light was turning to dark, guys started filtering into camp. Stories were relayed, and I was able to finally meet fellow tradgangers, who before had only been words and picture on a computer screen. I was also finally able to meet Tracy(KS Trapper). Tracy and I have been texting, making phone calls, and pm's for the last year or so. To finally meet him was a great honor.
 (http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h160/steadman_2006/IMG_2481.jpg)


After intro's and a group picture. We decided for stratagey in the morning. Tracy, Ben, and i were going to head up to a small lake. Then head throught the timber, and drop back down to camp.
We immidietly hit fresh sign, wallows and rubs running up a small valley.

(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h160/steadman_2006/IMG_2482.jpg)
Tracy and I cow called as Ben took point. After ten minutes or so it was obvious there was nothing responding the the fake elk herd.
We moved along a terrace, and everywhere we looked there was sign. Some fresh, some old. I just knew we were going to hear some elk any minute. The amount of rubs, was incredible.
I took a few photos throughout the morning, but when I got home, they were either too blury, or hadn't even shown up. Dang it!

We continued working our way dow the valley towards camp. We would stop, cow call, and listen for elk. Nothing. On one particular set up, we were at the edge of a small meadow. At the sound of the first lonely cow call, pounding hooves were heard running towarsd us. I quickly nocked an arrow in anticipation of the elk that were surely answering. As my heart rate increased, I looked to see a muley doe bearing down on Tracy. At least something was answering the calls. I have seen this a few times as does think that the whine of the elk call sounds like a distressed fawn. We watched the doe circle, and "pogo" around for a while till she made her way out of range. Ben kept asking why i would stay 10 yards behind him and Tracy. I told him it was so I could hear any elk. Truth is, well, read earlier post about Ben   :eek:    :D    :biglaugh:

We made our way to the bottom of the valley, crossing through a bear's bedroom. The story of Ben and Todd echoed through my mind as we stepped over pile after pile of bear scat. At least I was hunting with Ben, who seemed to be the bear magnet.At the bottom of the valley was a creek. We ran onto a beautiful waterfall. We headed back to camp to relay stories of past hunts and dreams of future hunts.

(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h160/steadman_2006/IMG_2488.jpg)

(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h160/steadman_2006/IMG_2490.jpg)

That night, Tracy and I decided to sit the wallows we saw earlier that morning. We split up and sat different wallows. The only thing I saw was this guy.
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h160/steadman_2006/IMG_2495.jpg)

Let em tell you when a porcupine comes throught he brush at 20 yards, and all you see is the tipps of the quills, and hear their claws against the trees, well "porcupine" is not the first thing that comes to mind. After getting the heart rate down a notch, I sat the rest of the evening reflecting on new found freinds, and life in general. Right at dark, a few cow chirps were heard down the canyon. I returned the calls, but the elk had moved off to parts unknown. Tracy a nd I headed back down the mountain in the jeep, and ran into a little bear on the road. The liitle guy darted off before we could get pics.

Ryan, The pleasure was all mine bud. It was about time that we got to meet  :D  and I'm looking forward to more trips in the future.

Well, Charlie sould have his truck by now we met up with his family this morning at Cabela's and handed over the keys thus ending are quest.Hang in there Charlie and keep getting better and better were praying for ya bud.

Tom your doing a great job, Sorry I haven't been chiming in but it's been a super busy week. Great picks by the way and keep them coming looking forward to the rest of the story.  :readit:  

I'm glad to see you jumping in here Ryan, I know you have some picks to share. That doe was cool she was on us quick, Wish I could have got my camera out soon enough to take her pick she looked a little suprised to see me  :D  

Tracy

Hey guys, this is a great read. Almost as good as being there. Next year!!

I've been under the weather for the last week, but the prognosis is very positive. Some of you may know I had to beg off of this hunt. Much to my chagrine.
However, I had surgery this past Monday morning. to remove a cyst on my spine that was causing near crippling pain at the end.

It now looks like I should be in the deer woods by mid October.

Tracy I owe you and Kevin Symes a special word of thanks for helping me get my truck back from Wyoming.

My buddy Vance and Todd had a hand in it as well.  I don't know for sure who else was involved but thanks to all.

Now keep this going, I'm likin it way too much.
 :campfire:    :archer:    :D

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/DesertPan.jpg)
A view from the flats

Driving on a Thread

04:30 and I am awakened by movement within the camp from a light that is sporadically zipping around...Chris is heading out. That boy is determined to get an elk if it means he has to jump on a bulls back whittle its antlers down to a spike and ride it till it has a heart attack. He was sick about missing the mule deer that materialized under his stand a few nights back and was trying desperately to make up for it.

An hour later the rest of camp starts to stir. In the kitchen tent my camp mates ask me where I was planning to hunt? "Hmmm I'm not sure, up north I think." Is what I tell them because to be honest I wasn't sure myself. An hour later I was the last one in camp. Studying the map I decided to take the same road that Chris and I had taken two days ago but follow a branch road that would take me further north. Forty minutes later I find myself on the branch road and heading (for me) into uncharted territory. Rattle, rattle, rattle goes the passenger door as the truck rolls over the washboard sections of the road. I was looking for the same kind of terrain that Chris and I sought out the other morning, high country and dark timber that most people wouldn't bother trying to go into. Up and up I went around every bend I craned my neck looking for the perfect spot and then I came to a spot in the road that made me grip the truck seat and I wasn't using my hands. Wide eyed and white knuckled I set at the end of what seemed like a stretch of mountain road that got longer the more I looked at it. "S—*---*--*!" I said out load. (I should have taken a picture of this part of the road but that was the last thing on my mind.) Looking through the sun reflected, dust laden, bug scarred windshield I told myself "your not the first one to do this you jackass...so go!" Easing on the throttle I got the big beast rolling. To my right was a sheer drop straight down and to my left was a wall! Here's the best part...this damn road was one and a half cars wide! "What the hell am I going to do if I meet a vehicle coming the other way?" I say as I find myself talking out loud. "I'm the poor sap on the outside part of the road!" "Don't these S.O.B.'s believe in guardrails?" I continue to babble as a way to easy my stress. I couldn't get to the end of that stretch of road fast enough! "Ahhhhh..." I gasped breathing a sigh of relief as I finally passed by the narrow thread of road. "Man I hope that's the last of that crap!" I mumble as I free myself from the seat.

Another mile or so and BINGO! Elk! Two bulls bail down the steep mountainside into the abyss of the canyon below and a few hundred feet later a coyote makes its appearance as a flash going across the road and up the mountain. I was unable to make out the size of the elk, but I could tell instantly that they were not spikes. "Well" I think to myself "those were pretty good omens." With that I pulled off the road at the next available turnout.

The Intruder

I backed the truck into a small nook at a sharp turn in the road, get out, shoulder my pack and confirm my position in the wilderness with the images on the map. Above me and to my south was what I was looking for, steep dark spruce forest. As I stood at the truck I realized that I had broken one of the cardinal laws of traveling in the outdoors, nobody knows of my location, but with the truck on the side of the road in plain sight they would have a reasonable starting point to look for my carcass.

Still-hunting was the tactic that I used for the day's hunt, going slow and staying vigilant to my surroundings. I also decided to go silent. No cow or calf calls, just quietly slipping through the timber. I have a theory, I'm not sure that it holds water but its what I figure may be going on. Utah, apparently manages its wild-lands for trophy black bears and issues very few tags to be drawn yearly. According to Todd, Les (Todd's dad) and Ryan there is a huge population of black bears in Utah and my theory is the black bears are preying on the elk calves. This in turn has caused the elk cows and calves to become silent, vocally, in their daily activities. So that is why I had planned to go silent because random cow /calf calls would be abnormal for the area.

Quietly I climb the steep dark mountain. Very little sunlight penetrates to the mountain floor in this area so underbrush does not grow on the slope. It is cool and the feather tied to my bow shows the wind in my favor. To my right is a slip rock chute to my left and above me grows dark timber. Soon I encounter a game trail with elk scat on it. "Now we're cooking with gas!" I think to myself. Using all my senses I dissect my surrounding of everything but elk or elk sign. Then suddenly to my east a commotion of pounding hooves erupts as two deer hastily exit their shadowy surroundings. As they sprint through the forest, I can see from my bleacher like position, the reason for their frenzied flee. A few yards behind them a determined coyote's form blazes through a stream of sunlight that has manage to pierce through the spruce canopy. Seconds later the forest is once again calm and I return to my slow ascent.

With the slip rock field 15 yards to my right I steadily climbed the mountain and eventually came to a fallen tree that lay waist high over the trail. The tree showed signs that hooves had chipped away at the top of the trunks gray surface revealing the yellow hue of the spruce wood that had been newly exposed to the environment that had grayed the rest of the trunk. Undoubtedly elk have made these scares, I reason to myself. After surveying the area and determining that crossing the log was the best route to take and remain stealthy, I carefully eased myself over the dried trunk, which occasionally popped as I stressed it with my weight. Once over I stopped to again check my surrounding. Leaning against the trunk and glassing the hillside, I caught movement! SHAZAM! Thirty yards ahead of me (south) I caught the movement from the rack of a 5 x 5 who's nose end was pointed in my direction and to his left towers another set of 4 x 4 antlers. Two bulls on a shelf 30' above me in the dappled sunlight lying like sentinels overlooking their mountain. It was 8:30 and the wind was in my favor. Suddenly the ivory tines of the 5 x 5 quickly turn right then left and in a single fluid motion he and his companion heft their huge tan bodies up and vanished behind a cloud of spruce nettle dust that danced in the rays of sunlight streaming into their beds. I listened as the two bulls plowed their way through the mountains brittle vegetation in their flight for safety. Discussed with myself for blowing this opportunity I could do nothing more then analyze the situation to determine what went wrong. Before advancing I glassed the hillside once more straining my eyes for sign of other elk in the area. Doubtful I knew but better safe than sorry.

Standing at the fallen tree I confirmed that the wind was indeed blowing in my favor. I could see the 5 x 5's ear when he lay in his bed so it stands to reason that his eyes were far enough above the lip of the shelf to see me. The popping noise of me crossing the dried trunk undoubtedly would have drawn unwanted attention in my direction. I also think that the slip rock chute that lay behind me may have been a big enough void in the trees to create an eddy current in the wind, pulling my scent into the bull's beds. Probably not by accident that they setup their beds in that spot huh?

Since no other animals were seen on or around the shelf, I climbed to the plateau to prowl around the bull's statuary. Ha ha ha...the view from their beds was second to none. My prior approach was good. There were enough trees in the direction of my route that my advances were moderately masked. However, once I crossed the fallen tree I was visually exposed to them from their bed and the wind on that shelf was a little sporadic. Fifteen yards away from the bed and to the beds southwest, the wind was once again in my face. Amazing!

The bed smelled like a barnyard. Fresh scat and spots of pee could be seen. Also encircling the earthen shelf were scores of rubbed trees some fresh some old. Signs that this spot had been used for generations. It was 09:00 and I wasn't willing to give up on the spot so I elected to tuck myself back into a dark region behind the bed to see if other bulls might stroll up to the shelf. After an hour I called it and continued my trek up the mountain. The advancement up the mountain reveled to me that there was only one feasible way for the elk to get onto that shelf and it required them to come up the mountain from the north. If a hunter could get to the shelf early before the elk it could be a good ambush site.

The southward climb up the mountain turned out to be steep and then very steep and then you're an idiot for putting yourself in this situation "steep"...but I made it. The view from the top was another one of those "this was worth it" kind of views.

At the top I snapped a few pictures.


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/PeakPan1-1.jpg)
View to the south


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/ValleyPan1-1.jpg)
View to the north


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Utah2009pictures006-1.jpg)


(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Utah2009pictures011-1.jpg)
My best Charlie Lamb Pose    :goldtooth:

Blood is Drawn

The highest point on the climb put me at 11300'. At that height I was at tree line in a meadow with a peak to the southwest and slip rock fields to the east and south. The views were fantastic, the temperature was cool and the sky was blue with a few scattered clouds. To my northeast was a gradual slope that would take me to another north facing slope. Between my position and to the north slope was a swath of trees that bridged the two areas. I would use that bridge to help conceal my movement. With the change of the warming thermals, I again had the wind in my face as I descended.

Once again I encountered another well used game trail that had a clearly churned spruce nettle base and the trail had elk scat frequently scattered along it. Tracing the gradual contours of the land the trail was an easy walk. At 2:00 o'clock I stood near the lowest and narrowest point within the swath of trees. This area necked down to about 500' wide. To the south was an ascending slip rock field and to the north descending was another slip rock field. As I had been doing from the start of the hunt, I was still-hunting and moving slowly and warily. As I stood scanning my surroundings silently approaching to my east northeast, hidden from my view at the time, was another predator. At approximately 10 or 12 yards from behind a spruce tree appeared the head of a coyote. In seconds our eyes locked on each other. With the north wind blowing over his back, he had yet to identify my form as prey or adversary.

With a single movement of my left hand I free the bottom of the #1 arrow from the rubber grip of the Selway quiver and slid the black, razor sharp, three blade Woodsman head from the quiver's foam retainer. During this action the coyote turned, unalarmed, and began to move to the southeast with the intent of positioning himself down wind of me. As he momentarily went out of sight behind the spruce tree's trunk, I moved the arrow to the right side of the 56" Centaur longbow and nocked the arrow onto the string. As the dog trotted to the southeast he began to close the distance between us to 7 yards, I in turn used the time to raise the bow and began to track the K9's movement. With every step that he made I felt myself apply a little more tension to the string of the 55 pound bow. The only thing that separated the two of us was a line of low growing scrub-brush that stretched 15' to the southeast of the spruce tree.

My confidence was high I knew I could make this shot. As the coyote continued his inquisitive forward advances, the world around me ceased to exist to my senses. My entire focus was narrowed down to a spot behind the coyotes shoulder. From that point on hours of practicing and honing my shooting skills had taken over. Without being conscious of my actions I found that I was at full draw and my gloved hand at the corner of my mouth. From behind the brush appeared the coyote's head, neck, shoulder and with the forward swing of his right front leg I relaxed my string hand as I continued to swing the bow with his forward motion. To be honest, I don't remember hearing the bows thump and I didn't hear the arrow make contact with the coyote, but the coyote's reaction told the tale.

At the time of the shot all of my senses except my sight seem to have switched off. Tracking of the arrow was easy and the motion of the coyote and its reaction are crystal clear in my head as I sit typing this. As his leg swung forward I released the string sending 31.5" Carbon Express 250, 650 grain, white crested and fletched arrow spiraling towards the coyotes vitals. With the release of the sting the coyote's head snapped in my direction and with the hit of the arrow he folded in half. The yelp from the coyote's mouth brought the rest of my senses back to life. With an aggressive growl and violent spin the coyote was making a full stretched-out body run to the southeast. After the spin and the initial dash I lost track of him and could only track him with my ears as he raised a ruckus sprinting over the forest floor.

The point of impact showed some blood but not a lot. Three feet from the shot location stood the front half of the broken arrow with the broadhead buried in the ground.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Utah2009pictures013-1.jpg)
The arrow as it was found

The blood trail was sparse and doubt of a good shot entered my mind and tried to hijack the adrenalin rush that had consumed my body. Slowly and methodically I traced the course of the fleeing dog marking last blood and searching for the next. A fleck on a bush, a smear on a log, evidence of a glancing blow to the side of a tree shows the path. The glancing blow to the tree brought confidence back to my spirit. These creatures are too agile to be banging into things as they run. He was hit hard and loss of blood pressure was causing these mistakes in his flight. At the location of the tree marked with blood and hair I found yet another 3" section of arrow and as I stood by the tree I let my eyes scan the grounds in front of me and lying 10 yards ahead was the trophy that I have tried to get for the past two years. A mere 50 yards southeast of the point of impact was the reddish brown coated Utah coyote.

Kneeling beside him I touched his coat for the first time. It was semi coarse but felt good to touch. I give thanks for his life and silently rejoice in the pride of matching wits with a fellow predator. After using some small spruce branches to clean his exterior, I position the two of us for a single picture at the edge of the slip rock field with a mountain and spruce trees as our backdrop.

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc168/Gatekeeper100/Utah%202009/Utah2009pictures014-1.jpg)

The haul out was interesting. A half mile northeast lay the road and my objective was to get us both there without me being covered in blood. Carry a 35+- pound coyote with two holes in his ribcage a half mile without getting blooding was going to be a challenge. So I devised a plan. With the coyote lashed to a 2" diameter 8' long spruce pole, I drug the pole, when it was possible, keeping the coyote from touching the ground and carried him like a suitcase when the terrain was too rough for a drag. All in all, it worked and I got the coyote to the truck with no unplanned marring of his coat.

In camp congratulation were given to me by my camp mates and I proudly told the story of my first predator kill. Thanks to Tracy and his skinning talents we were able to get a full body casement skinned hide.

Thanks Tracy for your help!

:thumbsup:

Congrats Tom...awesome thread fellas!!

Exellent job, Tom! A well deserved and hard earned trophy for sure..

Well the general season elk hunt is over. No blood trails with happy endings to report. I think there is a lot of truth to Tom's bear theory. The bears are more then ever that I can remember and the elk are acting way wierd this year.. Oh well, that's why they call it hunting. I keep saying this but I should draw that any bull tag anytime. I'll post a few more pictures here soon.

Todd

great reading, looking forward to more pics...

 :notworthy:    :campfire:    :clapper:

:clapper:

Charlie, No thanks needed and it was one great big Tradgang effort to make sure that you could get your truck back. Tom,Chris and Ben were a huge part of this effort also.

Kevin, Thanks again buddy for coming through on the tickets and stuff  :bigsmyl:  

Tracy

Did some one say coyote hunting!   :saywhat:    :campfire:

This was a great read and the photos were awesome thanks Gentlemen. Blake

Just got back from the weekend and finished reading the thread.  Awesome job of story telling Tom.

When are you going to switch out your avatar picture? You got several pics on this trip that would be great.

Chris

What a great read!

Tom, congrats on the coyote. Awesome trophy. I'm happy for ya bud.

Bill

Tracy,

Don't threaten us with a good time old friend... You are welcome anytime.

Tom,

WOW!! Great reading man! That feller we shared camp with that was in the motor home scored on a monster bull. I seem to have lost your phone number. I sent a picture to Chris, but PM me your number and I'll send one to you. I would post a picture here but he is one of those contraption shooters so the pic doesn't belong on Tradgang... Also, there are way more people that score on elk with trad gear then people who do with coyotes. That dog is truely a great feat!!!

Also fellas, if you can make it back, we can hunt elk in Northern Utah till the end of January. Something to think about. Deer to, and they are either sex.. Just putting a bug in your ear(s)...

Once again, thanks to all for being apart of this thread..

Todd

Yeah and I know a guy who lives close to Northern UT. There is also an extended hunt down by my Dad's place. It is any elk, that's right, any bull,any cow. Lots of private, starts in Nov. But there is a chance. Just another thought.   :D  
Just got back from my last go. A couple stalks on small bucks. Love UT game management. In last day and a half 60-70 does, most with fawns. 2 bucks, a spike and a 2 point. Was a little disheartening. But mabey the extended will work, I can shoot a doe there!!

This is the last story I have of a great couple days with guys I hope to share a camp with again.
The last morning that i was there, Tracy, Ben, and I headed to a place that Tracy swore was loaded with elk sign. There was a bench, that was elk utopia. We made our way up a 4 wheeler trail. On the way ole "bear bait" Ben spyed another bruin. A smaller one that chose to run from Ben, instaed of at him. We the ran onto a group of mulies, with a decent 3 point with the group. My tag was good for a different unit, and Tracy and Ben didn't have mulie tags. Bummer. So we keep going up this road. Tracy keep's telling us, " It's just a bit further, see, just up there." So Ben and I keep pace with him as we keep heading up, and up, and up.
We get to a knoll with a great view, and Tracy once again proclaims, "That bench is right over there."
Right over there and an hour later, Ben and I hear those all too familiar words,"It's just a bit further."
By then, I thought Ben was going to pass out, and after having no mountain hunting this year, I was beat. Ben says he would now like the keys and he's walking back to the jeep. I have to agree with Ben. I think Tracy was a bit more tired than once thought, and after looking ahead, he decides to head back with us. The walk back was one of my favorite parts of the trip. I learned a lot about the men I came to meet. We shot arrows, and lost some, and enjoyed the walk back, all of us looking forward to the cold beverages back in camp.
I didn't get to spend a lot of time with the guys, but what time I did spend, leaves me longing to live closer to KS. Thanks for everything to all the guys at the camp.
And Tracy, if you ever get back to UT, I have this awesome saddle where the mulies cross all the time, it's not that far. Promise.   ;)

You guys sure make it hard for a guy to sleep thinking about the hunting we could be doing late in the season. If I could swing it I would be back out there in a heart beat.

I sure injoyed my self out there in Utah, Beautiful country for sure. I look forward to going back.

Tom don't you have some picks of the coyote, I would love to see them.

Tracy

QuoteOriginally posted by K.S.TRAPPER:

Tom don't you have some picks of the coyote, I would love to see them.

Tracy

Nope! Isn't that crazy! From all of the excitement of shooting the ol' boy I forgot to take a string of pictures of him I only took the one picture of the coyote and me.

I don't have any pictures of Todd, Ryan and only one or two of you and Ben. I was gone from camp all day and when we all were in camp it was dark. Eat, hunt, eat, talk for an hour or two, sleep and repeat.

The only person that I really have pictures of is Chris and that's only because he kept saying "Take my picture! Take my picture!" when we were out hunting.

I will burn some CD's and get them out ASAP.

   :help:

This last weekend was wonderful.

I spied this buck and a doe while elk hunting and thought I would practice my stalking skills. I always seem to do a lot better when I don't have a valid tag...

Not huge but a nice 3x3.
 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/3x3001.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/3x3002.jpg)

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/3x3003.jpg)

He threw his tail in the air and told me to kiss something. Right after I told him he was lucky and that he better watch his six a little better next year.

 (http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n32/papsblueribbon1/3x3004.jpg)

Oh well...

Todd

All right Ryan I deserve that but I still had plenty of energy to keep going it was the talk of fresh antelope steaks and a cold brew back at camp that got the better of me  :scared:  Nice buck though.

Oh yeah, Congrats Tom on the 1000 post I'm getting close too.

Tracy

WOW!

Great read men!!!

Tom, great telling! Another bard on TG. That dang mountain hunting is addicting.

CONGRATS!!! on the hunt , my o my what a story well told I felt as if i where hunting these afternoon

thanks

Gerardo