Trad Gang

This will be the fifth annual.  We usually have 8-12 hunters and a really good time.  Here are all the details.

 2011 Southern Indiana Bowhunt (http://sticknstring.webs.com/2011southerninbowhunt.htm)  

Some Pics from last year:    2010 Pics (http://sticknstring.webs.com/apps/photos/album?albumid=10154587)  

The last of the Mohican Doe:

  (http://sticknstring.webs.com/photos/JW-Bowhunt-2010/darrendeer1.jpg)

The full story:    2010 Southern Indiana Bowhunt Thread (http://tradgang.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=091943)

Sounds interesting! I am just now looking into info for the area. Are there turkeys around there?

Man, I need to make an actual webpage for the Ohio Traditional Deer Hunt! I was planning on posting the details for mine this week too. Looks like you guys have a good time.

Next year, if the money situation is better, I will have to come over to your hunt for a visit!

Good luck and shoot straight.  :campfire:

John,
If I understand the regs right it's $150 for your first tag and $24 for any extra antlerless.

I may have to see if the better half will turn me loose for the week.

Troy

Sounds like a great time. I will have to check with the boss but would love to attend. Rob

Lots of turkeys around.  Season will be open.

Troy, that's sort of true.  But, only if you want a chance at a doe only.  It's sorta screwy so stay with me.

You can buy one bonus antlerless tag for $150 and then each additional bonus antlerless tag is $24.  But you will not be able to shoot an antlered deer.

If you want to shoot an antlered deer, you have to buy an archery tag, good for one deer.  It is $150.

The best way to do it is to get an archery tag for $150 that you can use on a buck.  And then buy your first bonus antlerless tag for $150.  then all other bonus antlerless tags are only $24.

We have a one-buck rule.

Wow!!!

Don't mind paying the buck-fifty for the antler tag, but adding in another buck-fifty for a doe tag is pretty ouchy...

Guess if momma lets me go I'll be buying one tag and making sure I keep my fingers off the string when ol' baldy comes by.

Troy

Yea, we're trying to get that fixed but there is some resistance to making it easier for non-res hunters.  Tribalism at it's finest  :)

John,

Count me in for the hunt. Just got off the phone with the better half and she said go for it.

Troy

Cool!

Although I can't commit this early, this hunt sound like a great time.

Cary,

There are turkey's around... in fact my dad used to hunt over in this area back in the early 80's when Indiana's birds were very limited...

Got it on the calendar... I've not made this since the first or second one...

Hope Hackbow's going to get to be there...

Jonathan

Looking forward to meeting you Troy... missed you posting and sharing your knowledge on wood arrows...

If the weather ever gets any better I may have to take the family up that way for camping/scouting trip.

Darren and I are elk hunting in early September so I don't know if he is going to be able to get more time off.  I'll send him a text and ask.

I camped down at Starve Hollow this past weekend which is really close to Knob Lake.,  It was hot but tolerable.  I highly recommend a camping trip just about any time, even if it's hot  :)

I caught 8 bass in about 40 minutes.  Then got a nice 16"er on topwater at dusk.  5-6 hours in a canoe fishing pretty much makes up for the heat!  Cold beer after a night of frog giggin didn't hurt either.

John,
Wish you would call when you're down this way. I live right here around all of these places. Give me a shout when you're coming bac down this way, I'd love to meet you and maybe do a little shooting.

You know I'll be there John. Bringing the big tent so I should have an extra cot or two for someone if needed. Just let me know if some that's coming in needs a place to sleep.

Stiks

Darren is in!  Looking forward to it.

Hadn't been on a group hunt like this in years This should be a fun time.

Troy

I wished I new I could get a few days off together I think this would be fun. I've never hunted whitetail so it would be a great learning experience for me.

John,

If I am home (in town) that weekend, I will come down----

I have a trip planned at the end of that month, so I will need to tread lightly;)

I may be able to make it. I need to talk to my son and find out when he is coming into town to hunt.

Troy,
I may be wrong but as I understand it the first tag is for any deer, not just a buck. The second tag is where the question comes in for me. If you haven't taken a buck with the first tag can the second tag be used for a buck? or are you just buckless at that point?

The way I understand the tags are that the first archery tag is an either sex tag for 150.00... you may then buy an extra archery tag, also for 150.00 which is antlerless only if the first tag was used for an antlered buck... which if I'm not mistaken is anything that has an antler of 3" or longer...

Joe, if you shoot a buck... you're done buck hunting in Indiana for the year... We went to the 1 buck rule several years ago... before that one could kill a buck with a bow and then also with a gun... that is no more...

It's the "bonus" antlerless tags that are for now for any weapon that are antlerless only and 150.00 for the first tag and then reduced afterward for non-residents...

It can be really confusing... always had out of towners come in the shop confused and checking in deer having the wrong license...

Jonathan

This looks like it's shaping up... now come on October... hard to even imagine cooler weather with the mid to upper 90's we've been having the last two or three weeks...

Jonathan

Hey all, like John posted, I will be there. How about Billy, Brent, Mike, Jordan, Merle, and others from past years? How about Dennis and Bona who keep saying they're gonna try? How about anyone else?

Just a heads up to you newbies thinking you'll impress the veterans with your cooking skills; forget it! Kris not only works magic with the deliciocity (yes, its a word) of his camp cooking, but I swear he pulls 4 lbs of meat from the cooler to cook and ends up with 8 lbs to eat. I, on the other hand, choose lunch meat exceedingly well.

Seriously, if you're on the fence about this just trust us when we tell you it'll be worth it.

I hope your schedule works out Joe, it'll be good to have you back. You too Jon, make sure you bring one of your heavy Elburg's for me to drool over. And P.J., will it help if I write a nice flowery letter to Leslie asking her if you can come out to play? Missed C-dale this year man, sorry. Also, it'll be great to meet you Troy. I spoke with you when you sold your arrow biz about my dad maybe taking it over as a retirement job.

The rest of you guys do your best to make it. There's lots of room to roam. Enough critters to hunt. And there's plenty of laughs to share.

Lastly, I want to take this chance to thank Scifres for not only getting this organized initially, but for keeping it going. It is simply a wonderful time shared with great folks.

See you all in October. Hopefully John and I will have elk meat to share. Wish us luck!

Darren, I'm scheduled to work that weekend! I may come depending on if I draw any of the "special hunts" as I am down to 4 vacation days. I need to put that Indiana lifetime license back to work, I only hunted IN twice last year.

I'll know by mid September. Besides every time I say I am going something comes up and I can't make it! I have been wanting to do this one since the first one!

Darren,

It really won't be too much of a problem unless I happen to be out of town a lot for work---I do not plan on it, but mother nature has a way of changing my plans--

If I do not come down to hunt for the weekend, I will come down to cook, eat and hang out on Saturday at least----

I am really feeling good this year--A full 2 years after my shoulder surgery, I have settled in on a bow weight, have a new longbow, I shoot it well, I have the fire to hunt like no other time in my life---

I am going to do my best to come down and play---

Oh, you can call Leslie, but don't think you will be the first guy to ask if I can come out and play;)

Hackbow!

This may well be the year I make it. My present employment is more accomidating. All I have to do is trade one day and I would have seven straight nights off! (If my schedule continues as it is now).

Of course the family has to be ok with it.

I'm really getting the itch to hunt something!
:archer2:

For one lucky first timer, I will personally escort you to  a stand site on a sweet inside corner where I know for sure a 150" (or so) deer lurks.  If you don't see a deer from this stand, I'll buy you dinner Saturday night  :)

As extra incentive, Brad Herndon, who wrote   Mapping Trophy Bucks (http://www.amazon.com/Mapping-Trophy-Bucks-Brad-Herndon/dp/0873495039)  lives just a little ways from the campground and might even stop by.  His trophy room is full of big bucks killed on public land within a mile of where we'll be camping.

Will see if I can dig out some time...

Oh! Oh! Do I count for the inside corner stand? Since I've not hunted with you guys and only visited one day ;-)

Didn't you guys have a fellow from Germany show up and hunt one year... and some fellows from VA?

Anyway, Darren I was planning on bringing that Elburg I picked up at Cloverdale... I won't be hunting with it as my joints pop and crack when drawing it, but it sure flings an arrow... I'd love to see you draw it to the 30" or so you do... Might burn the fletching off ;-)

Jonathan

Is everyone showing up Thursday night or coming in on Friday?

Tecum-tha is our German friend.  See above.

We have had some pPA boys a couple times too.

I'll be in Friday night.  I'll put you in the drawing for the stand  :)

I'm gonna try and get in thursday night if everything goes as planned John give me a call when you get a chance.

Darren looking forward to seeing you. Billy said he would definetly be there and I'm sure brent will make it and I think Merle is coming in as well.

If anyone needs a place to sleep I got room and a few extra cots

Stiks

Almost forgot Darren, I been pondering what to cook one night.

Maybe a big ol' pot of campfire chili.

prob gonna be there as i have a 5 day weekend for fall break.

My brother will attend as well as at least one guy (wheelie bow shooter that I hope to convert) from work.

Chili's good  :)

Composters??????  :scared:    :scared:    :scared:

Is there any place to plug in a smoker? Don't think I will have time to babysit my charcoal one.

Rob,

I don't think there is any electric at the sites, but there might be at the shelter house just above where everybody has camped in the past...

I'm sure somebody will be over there poking around at some point before the hunt... I know I'd like to get over and walk some of the ground...  we had several guys from church camp over there this past winter and went for a walk the next morning... interesting country... hilly... I'll be looking for some saddles and whatnot, I hate to go in blind...

Jonathan

No electric.  There is generally someone at the camp all the time though.  I bet some remedial training and it'll work out.  I do like smoked stuff.  Smoked turkey, smoked salmon, smoked cigars  :)   Rumor has it that one of the attendees works in a high-end smoke shop in Pittsburgh.  Has somethin' to do with selling private label cigars too I think.  Maybe he'll bring something to smoke.

By golly there he is, smokin' in my popup after a good day's hunt - hehehe

 (http://sticknstring.webs.com/photos/JW-Bowhunt-2010/JW2010-09.jpg)

Here's some pics of camp last year.

 (http://sticknstring.webs.com/photos/JW-Bowhunt-2010/JW2010-06.jpg)

 (http://sticknstring.webs.com/photos/JW-Bowhunt-2010/JW2010-05.jpg)

Boy that was good breakfast that morning.

Tecum-tha I'll send you a PM with my phone #. I live just about 30 minutes from Booneville and depending if we can get it worked out to go and come home at the same time you could ride up with me and we could split the gas.

That guy from the smoke shop can chase down a deer on foot from what I hear. LOL

I wanted to let everyone know I have extras of everything(tents, stands, blinds, chairs) just pm me and let me know what to bring. Might not make it til fri. morning though. If I get time I may have to make-up a fancy wood burned torges seat to give away.

First timer,,,,hummmmmmmm, me thinks I might have a good chance at that corner.

Troy

That's a pretty good offer on that corner. I never got an offer like that HMMMMM. But then again I'm not that hard to persuade to come any where to hunt    :D

John and the boys where extremely welcomeing and helpful to me last year on my first trip.

Stiks

I might have a couple other places to show you all.  None of 'ems too top secret or hard to work out but I am happy to share what I can.  Keep in mind, this is public land and as such, the best laid plans usually go afoul.  Backups are nice.

Those Ohio boys have got me hungry! I'm smoking a test batch of pulled pork and working on sauce as we speak.

Can I come? I would need to share a tent if possible.

Looks like an awesome time for sure! I think that is the same weekend as our youth hunt in Ky. My son will not allow me to do anything but take him hunting that weekend! I am so proud of him!!!!

All are welcome.

What about taking a coyote or bobbykitten. Is that allowed. Here in OH we can't do much more than look at a bobbykitten.

What lic. will we need for those?

Troy

I don't think coyote starts til the 15th. Bobcats aren't allowed unless they changed something recently.

Nope on the bobcats, Would be nice if'n we could. I know where there is a few at.   :D  lot of fun to sit and watch.

Coyote is year round on private property with written permission but on state ground it's the 15th I believe.

What will be open is deer, turkey, and squirrel and I think rabbit on DNR properties.

I'm gonna throw an extra 3 man tent in the truck in case someone needs to use it Benha.

Like John said all are welcome. I rolled in last year and everyone helped me pitch camp and welcomed me in camp like they had known me forever.

If you just buy a deer tag, you won't be able to shoot squirrels or turkeys.  You have to buy a regular hunting license to kill squirrels and a turkey tag for turkeys.

So what's the head count John?

I think i talked Joe weed (Osagetree) into coming.

Stiks

This sounds way to tempting to pass up. Might have to show up there myself. Are there plenty of camp sites in your area? Thanks Jason

Covey, yes plenty of campsites.  

No idea on the numbers Stiks.  I am always grateful if anyone shows up  :)

I'll miss your gathering again John. The NASP World Tournament in Orlando is that week and weekend.

My father-in-law lives about a mile away. I used to squirrel hunt behind the little house on the left right before you pass the gatehouse going to the campground. My F-in-L was the assistant manager for years and lived there. I visit the area 2-3 times per month.

Good luck.

I just drove through last night and looked at sites. There are four sites together that offer a lot of room. I am going to try and make it to hunt and camp but it will depend on my work schedule.

That Sounds like an  AWSOME EVENT!!  I would come down just to Camp-Out and Hang with the rest of You Fine Folks!!
My Financial Secretary says  "NO TAGS FOR YOU  BUDDY BOY!!!"   :readit:    :rolleyes:    But I would still Love to come!! I will see what the "Travel Agent" has in store for me!!  :goldtooth:   Bad Part, the Financial & Travel guide are in  KaHoots  sometimes!!  :biglaugh:

Shakes if you live in Crawfordsville won't you have a resident tag?

Either way it's great to camp too. The first time I went I didn't hunt much just looked around some and spent more time just camping and hanging out. Had a Blast!

He will when he gets here Stiks...  :thumbsup: , Gonna make sure he can get to B'town to meet, hunt and greet and have a good time. It still looks like I'm gonna get to come, and I have to say I'm really looking forward to it. It will be a pleasure to share camp and hunt with several fellow TG members.

Look forward to meeting some new folks for sure!

Stiks

well, i'm headed to Terre Haute for school this year, I'll look in to see if I can attend.

John, do you think there is room for an 18' teepee in a campsite?

Bona

yes

ttt

Thanks for the open invite and personal invite from Kris!
I am going to try my best and show up but I don't think I'll be hunting. I'll be lucky to have enough gass to get there and back. Kris offered to buy my tag but I just wouldn't feel good about that. He's a heck of a guy!
To come over, I will be bringing the wife as she deserves a get-away too! She'll be glad to here BGlass will be there too.

The wife says I always think of the worst, Here's my worst thought.
We're all sitting around mid day and someone like me is sticking targets at camp. The DNR shows up all friendly and then asks for everyone permits. I don't have one but he's seem me shooting. I explain I am not hunting and he does not believe me and I am fined or arrested.

I know someone who was caught stumping during season and didn't have a hunting permit. The guy endened up in court though he did get out of it. The judge had mercy or he hired a lawyer, can't really recall the circumstance in court.

Sorry to be a worry wart! What do you all think? What is the cost of a non-res. 3 day small game permit? Or is there such a thing?

Osage, you can hunt small game for 5 days for $31. And it would be so cool to meet your wife! I'm glad you can make it!

Bona

Joe you and your bride just need to worry about getting there and make sure you bring some good sharp pointy sticks. Your gonna need'em!    :D

No shooting allowed in camp but there is a target range real close to the campground.  It was recently rebuilt as part of an Eagle Scout project and is really nice.  It is 20 targets and winds through some decent ground.

I'd get the small game license and then you can go stumpin' too.

just spent the weekend there looking around getting a feel for the land. Gonna spend a few more weekends there in sep. for tree rats and scouting for deer.
Osage, these woods are full of rats.
The wife says for those who want to bring there own , she would cook ribs on the fire while we are in the wood. :-)

Joe, I can probably fix you up. So you bring sharp broadhead arrows with you as well not just small game stuff...
I will have to make some arrangements and then you'll hopefully be able to ride with me hunting...
Kris, I live east of Boonville and usually take 231 through Huntingburg and Jasper to get to Bedford and then US 50 to Brownstown. I will probably hunt on private property as well.
So Petersburg is a little aside. Will you attend the first traditional shoot of the blackhawkbowhunters in Boonville at the end of September?

ttt

So I had just been shooting my moose bow and heavier arrows at my moose target when decided to shoot my deer bow with a two blade broadhead to see how they would fly compared to the field points. That's why I shot over this target. That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/BonaGlass/April2011097.jpg)

Thing is...I MURDERED A STALK OF CORN!!

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/BonaGlass/April2011095.jpg)

Don't tell my husband. He already calls me a danged woodchuck!

I'm just trying to get ready for deer season!

With my gear ready and broadheads sharp the down time has got me thinking about bow building again. Hopefully I can learn a thing or two while I'm there.

I'm looking foward to meeting all of you. Rob

Good looking BH's Bona, :thumbsup:  I guess great minds think alike!!! So Bona are you a Meat eater or a vegetarian???  :laughing:  No matter what you're still bringing home groceries...LOL!!! Can't wait till October, it's gonna be GREAT!

Elk meat procurement team is on the road. Will see you So. IN hunters in a few weeks. But first, Scifres & I have some unfinished business to take care of with the whitetail's much larger cousins.

GO get em' guys!!!! Good luck and be safe...The rest of us will wait by the  :campfire:  for updates and great stories when you return.

According to the definition I've read on a t-shirt, I am a vegetarian.  :o  

But I'm having a blast trying!

Believe me Bona, there will be more meat consumed at camp than you can imagine. And Kris will likely cook up a token veggie.to keep his wife happy. But as far as you killing  your own, I'll help and we'll just get it done! Seems like when you break the ice w/these sticks, it just gets plain easy afterward.

Believe me Bona, there will be more meat consumed at camp than you can imagine. And Kris will likely cook up a token veggie.to keep his wife happy. But as far as you killing  your own, I'll help and we'll just get it done! Seems like when you break the ice w/these sticks, it just gets plain easy afterward.

I have a sneaky suspicion that you do just fine in the woods Bona. I hope you know I'm just funnin'.

The buck in my avatar is the first and only deer I have shot. That's been too many years ago. But I can take a ribb'in. My sister is going to be at the hunt too. She doesn't hunt and doesn't really like to see deer "hanging" around. I asked her if she would be okay with deer hanging from a meat pole in camp and she said she wasn't too worried about it. Meaning she doesn't expect me to get anything.

She has always respected what I do and has been supportive. She's just being honest and that's fine. But I need to prove her wrong on this one though! I can use all the help I can get!   :help:  

I've always felt like alot of my problem was that I need a good hunting spot. A good mentor would be nice too!

Bona

In early Oct. I would say that any meat will get to a cooler pretty quickly.

It will be good to see you again Bona. Maybe it won't rain this time!  
  :pray:  


Rob

If anyone gets one down,,, I hope it will be you Bona!

Aw, thanks guys!  :archer:  
I'll try my best! How can I go wrong with all this support.

I'm with you Rob. Please Lord, no rain!  :pray:  
Not THAT week anyway.

From all the Looks of Things,  I WILL ATTEND  This Year!! Try to hold down the Laughter should I actually Get a Turkey, ok??  :rolleyes:   Dont know about the Deer Tag yet, but I am Definitely on for a Turkey!!  :archer:  
     I sure am looking forward to Meeting y'all down south here in October!! And a  HUGE THANK   YOU  to My  "Guardian Angel",  because without him, I wouldnt be Coming Down to  Join The FUN!!

Getting closer!!!!!

I was gonna go up and camp this weekend but the heat wave we just had shut me down on that.

Hopefully I can get a chance to go up and do some scouting

Bill, I think you just might be a little bit EXCITED huh!!! Kris, I enjoyed talking with you on the phone the other day and will have to tell you between the heat and the torential downpours of rain between last night and today I'd say holding off was a GOOD thing.

I did wanna ask, if I may, could I get an initial head count for how many think they are going to attend???? I'm asking because I have a retired gentlemen who told me that if I let him know how many of us TGer's were coming he would TRY and accomodate us with enough firewood for the weekend. I'm getting excited and hoping the weather will cooperate with the event as well. Hope to see and meet lots of you there!

John

Dang it, this bein' on the road thing sucks!!

I've never seen this much activity or read so many plans for attendees...the more the merrier..
Yep, Brent and I will be arriving after noon Thursday... Meril's gonna try to be there.

Nighthawk, new phone, lost your number, and as you can tell; ain't been around here much this year!

With a bit of luck this'll be there too...
(http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g237/redwinghunter/DSCN1607.jpg)

wood bow, wood arras, wood camper... all I need is a wood dweller on the fire!!

Billy, you gotta PM me more pics of your camper. Sweet! May I suggest bent marine plywood fenders? Love the gear storage deck up front! Serious,,, send me some details and pics! Do you know the weight?

I just went through and tried to get a rough count and I came up with about 20 that sound pretty serious.

Thanks OT, will do.

Gotta git back to work, ya'll.....be good see some you'ns, in da hills..

Keep her between the ditches Billy and I'll see ya next month.

Camper looks great by the way!

I hear ya John LOL looks like I made a good call.

You're not kidding Kris!!! We had a little wind and some minor storm damage in the area with the main damage being limbs down and a few areas with flash flooding, but that's pretty normal. I drove through the JWSF and took another good look around. I have to say every time I do that I get a little more anxious and excited. I can't wait to get to meet so many great folks from here, there and everywhere, it's gonna be a BLAST! October can't get here fast enough.

The weather we've had today really makes ya want to get out there doesn't it?

Rob, have you got that Torges seat done?

I'm thinking about bring a little something to give away too.

Bona

Bona, Been busy chasing squirrels and doves. Weather is too nice right Now to be in garage.

Doesn't look like I'm going to get up there to scout. Been checking out google earth though.

I hope I don't fill all my tags before I get there.  :laughing:  

Rob

Bona I hear ya.

I was thinking about talking to John Scifres and asking what he thought about doing a trade blanket on like saturday night. I'm sure all of us got some stuff we want trade or part with.

I'm assuming I can buy my out of state lic. over the counter. If not someone please let me know. I'd hate to make a 5hr drive to find out I can't hunt due to something like that.

Troy

BTW, if the trade blanket is a go I'll be sure and bring something to trade.

Troy, Lic. are avalible over the counter or online. I usally just print mine out instead of risking getting someone at the store that doesn't have a clue.  Rob

Troy,

+2 to what RobW said. Online is SUPER EASY to do and you can make sure ALL of your information is correct. Can't wait to meet all you fine folks in a few more weeks.

Thanks fellows, I think I will buy on line. I had my lic. messed up afew years ago while on a TX hog hunt. Thank goodness the conservation officer was understanding and willing to follow me back to the wally world I bought them at. They ended up getting the butt chewing instead of me.

Troy

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/BonaGlass/April2011118.jpg)

This is my teepee. I just got it and set it up on Tues. for the first time. I need to figure out a better way to transport it if I'm going to use it at the hunt. I have some ideas to make the load more stable so I can drive more than 40 mph. That tends to frost the other drivers cookies a bit.
My brother-in-law got called a jerk and it was just a 6 mile drive.  :dunno:

The solution for hunting:
http://www.kifaru.net/tipi_16man.html

No heavy poles, a stainless steel stove (if needed), optional mosquito netting and lining.

Fits in a backpack if needed.
Got the 8 and 16 man. I was thinking long about a canvas one,but we're not transporting things with horse traverses at walking speeds anymore.
Even with the breakdown poles, it would fill a Pickup truck. There is a reason why the original users often left most of the the poles on site for summer or winter camp....
I can take mine on airplanes as well....

I've wanted one of these ever since reading G.Fred Asbell's stories about them. It is way cool. Maybe not the most practical but he (atleast used to) swear by them.

Torges seat is done. Even came up with a neat little logo.

I'm counting the days!

Rob

I'm glad I ain't the only one counting days Rob    :D

Well KRAP!!! I aint gonna make it after all. Nobodys Fault, its just My 1965 Beat-Up Model Body that cant hack it. Sorry to All, especially John R. !! Totally Frustrating...  :banghead:    :banghead:  
Hope I explained it best My Friend!!

I've ordered something from a sponsor to bring to the hunt to put on a trade blanket or have a drawing or what ever.

Darren and I just got back from CO a couple hours ago.  I don't even want to think about sleeping outside for a while  :)   We didn't kill but a member of the camp did so we ate backstrap for one dinner and leftovers for breakfast.  Mmmmm.

We can't bring our own firewod unless it is certified, debarked or just lumber.  It's cheap there and helps support the place.

I am open to whatever anyone wants to organize but for me this is a hunting and gathering weekend.  I don't organize nothin'.

My son made team captain for soccer and I missed his first game due to elk hunt so I will be returning to Franklin, IN for Saturday morning for my daughter and his games.  Should be back to camp by 5 pm.  I plan to drive straight to the spot I'll hunt the evening but be back in camp after dark.

Someone needs to save me and Darren our spot on the hill if it is available Friday.  I'll pay you back.  I should be there by 8:00 pm.

Bona, I have a nice hunting spot for you if you want it.  Troy gets the inside corner with the gauranteed 150 roaming around  :)   I'll show you guys on the map and you will have to find them yourselves since I can't hunt Saturday morning.  Climbers or ground hunting would work equally well in these spots.  I can point any newbies to other likely spots too.  This isn't the easiest place to hunt but it's pretty and there are deer there.

That sounds great John. Glad you're back but sorry you didn't get an elk.

I'm working on sharpening four Grizzly El Grande's with the tutoring of Ron from KME. I'm saving one to practice with.

We want Co pics John!   :readit:

Maybe later.  Got catchin' up to do.  Plus about 50 million bugs to clean off my car!

A teaser:  On our very first calling sequence, I had a 5x5 come into me from the wrong direction.  I never even saw him as he stood 25 yards broadside to me.  Darren wanted to strangle me.  And on our very last calling sequence, I bugled a 4x4 into Darren but he came in straight at Darren and never offered a broadside shot.  I call them the Bookend Bulls  :)

Sorry probies but I've already been scouting the area. Better luck next year  :)  Even have a new to me widder short long bow

Can i sneak in that spot with my old man? lol
Class gets out at 1 so i should be there around 6 or so. CANT WAIT!!!

John,

Thanks dude,,,, I'll do my best to make you proud.

I've been working up my hunting arrows and looks like I'm going get what I was hoping for, 32.5% UEFOC arrows tipped with 190 griz. Did my final bareshafting today and everyone of them are flying dang near as good as fletched arrows. Fletched acouple to double check and almost robinhooded my first shot with the second at 30 yds. Once I finish the fletching it's on to sharping broadheads.

I'll touch base with you afew days before the hunt.

Troy

John,

I'll be going up early this year so I'll make sure your spot get's saved. I'll give you a call in a few days after things settle back down for you.  

Stiks

Kris,

Let me know when you get over here. I'll be working a few night shifts before the hunt, so I know I'll be swinging through the JWSF to say hey and see how things are going or if anybody needs anything, (for those who will be in early). Can't wait to meet all of you fine folks, sounds like its gonna be fun!

I will be there thursday evening . Has anyone heard from Billy? Bona, it will be nice to see you and I look forward to seeing your new teepee. Im not sure if my boy will be here for the hunt or not. I hope he gets here for it.
Also wanted to mention ITBA in scottsburg is holding a 3d shoot / bow bee this weekend 9-16,17,18.
Does anyone want to throw in and have a big feed friday or saturday night?

Joe,

I saw YOU at the spring shoot at Farmland this year. I couldn't get your attention to say "Hi". And I know you were at the Hoosier Fall Classic cause you won 3rd place in Men's Big Game with a longbow.

I would like to pitch in on a nice meal. I'm like John though, I mainly want to hunt.

You folks cook.  I'll eat.

Darren at 11,000 feet.

 (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Elk-Hunt-Pics/2011Ellk-20.jpg)

See that meadow about halfway up the mountain on the other side?  We got into a bull and half dozen or so cows later in the day.  It's about 4 miles away and down 400 feet and back up another 300.  We couldn't get a shot but it sure was fun spotting the meadow and then calling it right   :)  

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Elk-Hunt-Pics/2011Ellk-14.jpg)

Very cool John, very cool!

WOW!

Ya gonna post a bunch of these in a Pow Wow thread all its own?

Joe

Here is the Pow Wow thread:   http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=107590;p=4

Thanks John!

My Head & My Heart will be With You All!! God Bless Y'all!!

alright guys, it sounds like i'll be able to attend too, if you won't mind having a complete novice around (maybe i'll scare the deer away from me toward you guys). I'm counting down the days; it'll be a good time away from classes.

I hope to post pictures soon of sharp Grizzlies I've been working on and of the Selway bow quiver to side quiver adaptor I've been working on for the hunt (and the rest to of the season).

Maybe I should post pics of the quiver in progress. I think it's looking pretty cool!

John, I'm glad to hear you can make it. It will be nice to meet you having been in the swap and all. Are you bringing your trade bow?

Bona

I got so much to do and the days are getting to be less and less.

Can't wait   :D

b.glass, I wish i got my trade bow! otherwise, i'd bring it for sure. still waiting though... I'm bringing my first glass recurve I made (still haven't gotten around to posting pictures and details in the bowyers bench about it) but I'm quite excited to be able to use it for my first hunting season.

edit: it seems that I most likely won't be able to attend. my car's on the fritz and is back home while i'm at school for a while now. Hopefully it will be fixed by the weekend of the hunt, but I'm not sure, so I'm most likely stuck in terre haute for now.

Joe, you better buy a five day small game license....

Looks like I should be able to get there Thurs. evening. I can't wait!

Rob

Just as an FYI, there has been some additional logging especially in the area east over the ridge and south of the campground.  They had pretty much taken all the mature pines out of the farther reaches last year but I guess they went back in this year and got some of the stands closer to the road south of the forest.  This creates some pretty barren hunting over on that side but doesn't really impact the hardwood stands on the actual ridges.  In fact, it might make them more appealing.

Sorry John, I knew you had been waiting but I hoped you had it by now. And now you won't even be able to make it?

I think we will be there on Thursday also. I still have alot to do though.

Anyone gonna be over this way to scout this weekend? If you are give me a shout I'm off this weekend and would love to meet some of you folks before the hunt if possible, if not I'll see you in about 14 days.

John  :campfire:

I'd like to make the trip up John but it's youth weekend and I got three little ladies to take to the woods    :D

Don't forget it's the youth hunt this weekend.  Might want to wear some orange.

Lainey and I will be out in Parke County on Sunday for her first hunt   :)

I have a boy that's wanting to go out this weekend too or I would try to make a scouting trip.

I keep forgetting about the youth hunt...Wish I had one old enough to take. Have fun with the girls Kris, and good luck to all blessed enough to be hunting with our future.

John  :campfire:

May want to get an elk tag. Front page of the paper had an article about an elk being hit near the Crawford/Harrison line on SR 64.

Maybe John smuggled some back from CO.  :D  

Rob

Shhh!

I'll be in the woods in the morning with youngest.

I sure am counting the days, I finished up my primitive set up the other day and will be hunting with it some. Hopefully I will take my first stone head deer at the hunt.    :D

That would be just tooo cool Kris! I'm trying for my first Indiana deer!

I wish I could post pics of the side quiver I'm working on for the hunt. I will be using Grizzly El Grandes and the little bow quiver I've been using doesn't have a long enough hood. So, as I've mentioned before, I'm converting a Selway recurve bow quiver into a side quiver using a poplar board. I had this blank side that was just begging for some carving or burning or both.

Photobucket is giving me fits and I can't get my pics to upload.

I've been Grizzly sharpening and getting some things for the teepee to make it more homey. It won't be long now!

I'm pondering a primitive setup too Kris.  I have all the ingredients just maybe not the time to cook up the recipe.  This rain this morning gets me out of cutting grass for a couple hours at least.  Now if only they'd cance the soccer games  :)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/BonaGlass/April2011128.jpg)

Ok, I finally got it to work. Here is the quiver I've been working on.

Looks good! You figure out those broadheads yet?

Rob

I refuse to post pics of my finished arrows until I get those Grizzlies shaving sharp. I'm close. But not there yet. They cut a rubber band pretty slick but not shaving hair. I'm keeping in contact with Ron as he is helping me figure them out.

It's got to be tough for him, trying to tell someone over the phone or through an e-mail something that would be 10x's easier in person. But he is the kindest, most patient person you can imagine.

Are you all ready to go Rob?

Cool quiver, Bona!!

I'm home this weekend and packing!  
Will be back at it Sunday evening..until the 5th....then I will hunt the afternoon of the 6th and every chance I get...here or there....until the 15th...have other things to get done in that time but...No cool new archery things for me this year except; all the new faces joining us for 'the hunt'..
See ya'll soon...

That sounds great Billy. I will be good to see you again!

My hunting stuff is ready. Made a list of camping stuff I want to take about a mile long. Backpacking is easier it limits my space. I always think I might need this or that.

Wish I knew what everyone was bringing food wise. Need to get a grocery list ready.

Rob

How much would this be for a non US resident say a Canadian boy who's always wanted to hunt in Indiana.

Is anyone going to be there a day or two early? I was thinking about making it down early if any one else is going to be there to point me in the right direction. Never been to the place and would rather not waste those extra days trying to find my way around.

Troy

I would say a non resident lic. would still apply but I'm not sure. I think a hunter ed course is required for anyone born after 1986. in.gov has a bunch of info and maybe some phone numbers to double check.

Hope it works out.

Rob

Troy,

I can point you in the right direction from afar if need be.  It's not a hard place to figure out.

I am pretty sure Canadians would be treated as any other non-resident.  First two tags are $150 each.  After that, you can buy antlerless tags for $24 each.

If anyone needs directions or help feel free to PM me for details. I will be working Wednesday and Thursday but will be swinging though during the evening, and hope to join you all for the weekend.

is anyone just gonna small game hunt,id like to make it over but refuse to buy tags when i own my property i hunt.would love to come over and see ya all.....

Indiana doesn't require bowhunter education certification. However, Hunter Safety Education is necessary for those born after December 31, 1986. Indiana has a 100% on-line course for $19.50 but unfortunately it is for residents only. Indiana, like other states accepts hunter education certification from other states and provinces.

In Indiana you need only the NR deer permit for the equipment you intend to hunt with. Some states, like mine in KY require a hunting license and a deer tag. The prices for IN tags were provided above. (I thought the extra doe tag was $25 rather than $24 but it doesn't matter.)  

I will qualify for a cut-rate license in a few more years. I will refuse the discounted license. The purchase of hunting licenses, especially for residents is soooooo economical and sportsmen have always paid the bills. I could have used the discount when I was in college but as I retire I don't need that kind of help any longer.  I will likely spend $325 to deer hunt in Indiana this year in order to have a buck tag and two doe tags.

Ironically, I am within a mile of where this hunt is being planned, once per week these days. I'm headed to Brownstown, IN in 20 minutes in fact. My father-in-law owns 23 acres that butts up against the Jackson Washington State Forest. I've squirrel hunted there (years ago) but never deer hunted there. A persimmon grove is a magnet for deer on the edge of his property adjacent to a pond. My nephew has filled many deer bow tags from that grove.

I hunt in the Attica, IN area.

Need a shadow Bowwild..??
I love the river scenery around Attica and persimmons..well there ya go..

Someone ask about just small game, plenty of them to offer you a good time. C'mon down and hang out; just fish if ya like or drive around looking for antiques...

We are not picky about what ya hunt; just that you come willing to share stories, laugh, and enjoy!!

I hope the weather man is right this time 62 for a high and clear would be nice on opening morning!


Rob

I went to a deer hunt and a squirrel hunt broke out.

A good hunter never limits themselves to just one game...

Troy

Don't look like we are gonna have a burn ban this year LOL, Actually hope it will dry up for the hunt.

Looking forward to meeting some new TG'ers and having a good time. Gonna start gathering up the gear tommarrow.

Is there any predictions for the weather during the hunt? Or is it to early for that?

I can go out opening day in the morning but I'm not sure when I can go out again or if I can before THE hunt.

I would like to do some small game hunting also but will not be my primary hunting. I read the thread you started Rob, about squrriel hunting. The tip about painting arrows orange is something I want to try. I made some flu-flu's but haven't tried them yet. Since reading that thread I will cut the fletching down. I'd had feeling about using them for squrriel was not such a good idea.

I will have my small game license, a deer license and a turkey license with me, along with the appropriate stamps.

Somebody mentioned food. Tell me what to bring I will bring it. I don't plan to do much cooking though. Granola for breakfast, cold meat sandwiches for lunch and supper is good enough for me.

So Bowwild, does that mean you are going to stop by?

I did a search and the sun should start shining again after Wed., Sept. 29th through Oct. 4th with temps in the high 60's during the day and high 40's at night. I could find only a 10 day forecast. So a week or so with no rain should dry things up a bit. If it will only keep from raining during the hunt.

Ahh Bona, We was born wet. We can hunt wet LOL

I don't mind the hunting wet, it's the sleeping wet that I ain't got used to.

I've hunt wet before and I can hunt wet again....but I prefer not to.

In hear ya Bona, I'm hoping for great weather too.

Can we get a roll call of all that will definetly be there

I vote for no rain.  I am pretty sure a rainy hunt a couple years ago is why Billy has a teardrop camper now.  Imagine "A River Runs Through It" under his tent  :)

I will Thursday.   :archer2:

is this when vallonia is having their festival..pioneer days,if so ill be that way anyways

Nope Fort Vallonia days will be the next weekend after that. 14-16.

That is EXACTLY why, John.   :wavey:  
You and I made it through that storm and
ate fairly well...Darren drove through...we all
survived...but, I do not wanna do it twice!!

Brent and I will be in Thursday...

Just did a drive through while on duty.....Seven deer spotted in less than 5 minutes in two different areas. Three were less than 50 yards from a couple camping near the lake. Four really REALLY nice does, One GIGANTIC DOE with two fawns. The four I saw were near a camping area moving from the water and back into a legal hunting area. The BIG doe and fawns were actually in the camping area and at the water when I drove through. Needless to say I'm getting a little excited.

John   :campfire:

My plans are to arive on Wed. If nothing else it will give me a day to scout.

Troy

I'm hoping to be there Wednesday but will be there Thursday at the latest.

Looking forward to seeing you guys and gal and hangin with some new folks from TG

If any body has anything they want to trade off I'll be bringing some trading stuff.

I have a few things to put toward a trade. I got the neatest little grouse target from Dink's, a sponsor here. Two actually, one to trade and one to keep. And a couple of slightly blemished "Buck Jump Longbows" t-shirts.

Aaaand... I got 4 shave'n sharp Grizzlies to hunt with!!! Sharpster was able to help this very slow learner to get them there! Now I need to make sure the camo is all rounded up.

Ya, I would rather not be using a teepee with a river running through IT!

ill come down for a day and try and shoot some of those tree rats down there...i wanna come in the evening when would be good so im not trampling threw anyones hunting area....

I'd say come any time. Someone will let you know where we are.

i no all of the areas threw there i grew up in seymour.ill come and play for a day

I plan to be there atleast by Thurs.

There have been several times when deer have walked within bow range of my camp down there.  There are several saddles they use to access the area.  Generally it's right at dark when they move through them.  Just over the hill is legal to hunt.  You can kill those camp deer.  I missed one last year right at dark during late muzzleloader season.  I was kind of glad after I had to walk out of there...in the rain...and the dark...uphill...for 2 miles  :)

Very true John....Very true. That's one thing about the area there are a few little bunny hills....  :rolleyes: !!! So if you don't like to hike there are a few places that will not be Happy places to try and hunt. But overall the area looks to be doing well and the deer in the area are for sure moving a lot more. Our car/deer accidents have went from one or two a week to three to five a night here in the last few days. I'm hoping to be able to hunt, (I'm waiting on a confirmation from my boss), but I may have to work Saturday. So I'm gonna try ans switch days and hunt and camp Thursday and Friday, and then visit periodically on Saturday if I'm not busy. I can't wait to get to meet so many of you folks.

John  :campfire:

Definetley some hiking to be done in there LOL

I just done our quarterly walk out of the mine at work and we cover about 3.5 miles at a pretty good pace so I think I'm good to do some hoofing.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/BonaGlass/April2011138.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/BonaGlass/April2011136.jpg)

lookin good Bona!


Rob

So Bona, does that mean you're giving us the shaft and not coming. Or does it mean you're going nuts and are ready to come hunt.   :thumbsup:   See ya soon.

John  :campfire:

I'm not going...I've gone!!! And your'e sure NOT getting THESE stafts!

I'm having some trouble getting Fri. night off. I asked like two months ago but we've had two people quit recently and now there's no one to work for me.

If I got Fri. off I would have Tues the 4th through Tues the 11th off to plan with. Aw, the best laid plans...

The forecast Sat.-Sunny, Sun.-Sunny, Mon.-Sunny, Tues.-Mostly Sunny, Wed.-Sunny, Thurs.-Sunny,...

I will be there. It's a shame that Fri. is going to cut my week in half!

I'm going out in the morning to "warm up" for THE hunt. Anybody else going out in the morning?

Not me.  Wish I could but soccer games and church are gonna dominate my weekend.  I'm saving it up for next weekend though.

I will be out in the morning. Won't be able to sleep tonight! Good luck everybody.  :archer:  


Rob

I'm working tonight, tomorrow, and Sunday....But I think I'm gonna go out Monday evening.

John  :campfire:

Opening day for me, for 5 years; is the first day at Jackson-Washington...

Gotta list as long as Thursday's drive...Will get most of that this weekend and back home late Tues or early Wed to finish packing..

Good Luck and I'm jealous of those hunting Saturday...

pretty pumped for tomorrows here in Angola, high of 51 and sunny

hope its gonna be like that next week.

as far as stuff to trade ill prob bring some arrows or heads that are not in use anymore

I too will probably be bringing some arrows to trade that are WAY too heavy, (birch and in the 70-75 spine range), for most of the bows I shoot. I'm getting excited too, I think more so for the chance to meet so many fine folks from here, and THE HUNT is just the icing on the cake.

John  :campfire:

I'm waiting for the water heater to heat me some water (we are having some issues). How early do you try to get out in the morning? I feel like if I set up before light it's early enough.

I've got several things layed out to bring for the trade blanket. Unless I get off my duff this hunt will be my first trip to the woods for the season.

Troy

I'm back! Saw 1 piney, (I hate piney's), 1 fox squirrel, 1 chipmonk and 1 hawk, 0 deer. The hawk fly-by sure shut that piney up!

That's it till atleast Tues.. I might be at Jackson-Washington State Forest by then!

i seen 10 deer 7 bucks 2 does and a yearling,bucks came by at 8 yds.just not what i wanna shoot the first sit of the year....

I'm a fixin to head out and do some ground hunting with my primitive set up and my ghilly.

We'll see we might have some fresh back straps in camp next weekend.

Stiks

Yee Haa! Sounds great Kris!

Anyone who might come in early give me a shout, and maybe we can have a bite here in town, or a   :campfire:

John,

I'll be coming in sometime around lunch on Wed.

Troy

Troy,

Give me a call when you get close to B'town and I'll try and come in to meet you for lunch, or something. I'll shoot you a PM with further.

John  :campfire:

WEDNESDAY !!!  and Bona said, TUESDAY  ....????

I can't get there on Monday so, guess I'll just settle for Thursday...  :p  

Might I suggest....for tree rats (they are everywhere)... then for deer, well...come to think of it; just pick a direction and you'll see furry/hairy targets... just don't shoot at the two legged, hairy things, or the tennis shoe wearin' teenagers on the trail...

AH7..what are the crops lookin like up close to the park, 'specially behind or around the church camp...??

Did alittle checking on the moon phase for the hunt. The way it looks, the full moon will be the 11th. Just a couple of days after the hunt.

I've found from hunting in several differnt states that the full moon will cause deer to move later in the morning. Often it will cause them to not move in the evening until after dark.

Does this seem to hold true in this area?

Troy

John, I plan to come in sometimes friday evening/night.I'll bring some toys :-))
Central time around here where I live doesn't help much either.I'll pitch the 8 man for 2 nights.Any news from Osagetree?

I GOT FRIDAY NIGHT OFF!!!!

I was checking the moon stuff too. I look more at the POSITION of the moon. If it is overhead or under foot during hunting hours. I use to buy a little disc thing that told me this but I found a web site that's free.

It says that the 11th, 12th, and 13th should be the very best days of the month to hunt. Maybe the best of the season! The moon will full but under foot during hunting hours. That doesn't mean I don't hunt the other days of the month but I REALLY try to be out those days if possible. I watch for deer when the moon is overhead, year round. I tend to see more deer then if the weather is right. I tried to copy the page I was looking at this morning and it wouldn't let me. I'll look it up again and jot down some info.

I'm not sure if I can bring the teepee. My brother-in-law and sister are coming and we planned to use his truck but he can't get any extra days off. I COULD come down on Tues. but I'm sure if I will.

Billy, don't forget there are targets with feathers!

Billy, I'll check tonight when I go in. Corn is starting to come out in some areas, beans are still in almost everywhere around here.

John  :campfire:

John,
what poundage do you you shoot, i shoot 73# so i might be interested in those 70-75s

John

Spent the day getting ready.  I'll be in Friday evening. I don't have to head home for soccer on Saturday so I'm hunting all day.  Might head to some private ground in the evening if I'm feeling like driving a bit.  I'd like to get a stand set up in there for the rest of the season anyway.  We'll see.  Looking forward to getting some hunting in.

John,

I shoot mostly bows in the #40-#48 range. I'll be bringing a few different kinds of 2 blade BH's as well for anyone who's interested. Looks like I'm gonna get to hunt Thursday and Friday, have to work 6P-6A for another officer on Saturday, (but I'm sure I'll get out to make sure the WILD group in JWSF isn't too rowdy...LOL), then maybe be in Sunday to visit and say my goodbye's to everyone. I can't wait to meet everyone. Billy I'm on my way out to check the crop situation for you right now.

John  :campfire:

Billy,

If you are talking about Pyoca (church camp), there's really no crops around it until you get north of it which is corn, and a small field of beans. If you are talking about the Million Dollar Lake a.k.a. Lake and Forest it looks to be mostly corn.

John  :campfire:

The 70-75 my be good for my 56" Morrison.
Bring them and we'll see...

I am really hoping to be able to be in wednesday but I got to do a brake job on the truck and still have to dig out all my crap LOL. I came to the conclusion today that I really need to thin down on some stuff that has been gathered over the years.

It's really got bad since I got into trad Got sticks and staves and leather and skins laying everywhere and it seems like I have aquired enough camping gear for a small army.

Probably end up coming in Thursday morning and setting up camp and laying around and being lazy for the day.

Just finished my last night of work. I'm now off for the next 7 nights.

I have a long to-do list. Making squirrel arrows. Painting them florecs... flourese... bright pink. With 2, 3/8" hex nuts on them they wieght a little more than my deer arrows.

I hear what you're saying about the stuff piling up Kris. 3, 5 gallon buckets of arrows and shafts, staves, tools, camo....holy cow!

I'm trying for Wednesday. If I make it that early I will probably do some hunt/scouting.

Gonna be a little hot after noon.  South and east winds.  Might be a good time to sit close to water.  Those hills drain quick and there's not much water up high.  There are a couple lakes and small streams in the area.  Put that in your plans.

Bad news from Darren, he's not going to be able to make it.  Work and a couple weeks of lost income from the elk hunt have gotten in the way.  Someone else is going to have to shoot the "Last of the Mohican Doe" this year.

I'm bringing my leafy suit and a pair of shorts to hunt in.  For the newbies, here's a pic of te campsite.

 (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/Outdoor-Pics/campsiteoverview.jpg)

It's self explanatory I think but let me know if you have questions.  Remember that they do not allow you to bring in your own firewood unless it is lumber or debarked.  You can buy wood for $4 or $5 and also you can collect dead and laying stuff.  There should be enough considering we won't need it to stay warm  :)   Or dry ourselves out  :)    :)    :)

See you all Friday.  Email me and I'll get you my cell number although the only service you'll get at the campground is likely Verizon.  You can hike up the hill and get AT&T also.  I have T-Mobile and don't know about that yet.  There is also a decent Mexican restaurant in town that has adequate food and cold Negro Modelos!

Yesterday I desided I was going to leave this morning. It would give me another day to hunt. I had hoped to be there by noon today. However, that got kicked in the head this morning when I woke up to a fridge that died sometime in the night. When I looked in the freezer part to get something out I found that my ice cream was more cream than ice and the ice cube bucket was nothng but a bucket of water. Went to town and bought another one that will be delievered late this evening. So it looks like I'll be there about noonish tomarrow.

Troy

Well, I'm bummed. As John said, I won't be able to make it this year. I work as a contractor and the weather out here pushed a job back a couple days. This is the first one of these hunts I'll have missed. Definitely will miss seeing the regulars and getting to meet all the new folks. Best of luck to everyone. Not sure if son John (laxbowman) will still come down or not.

Darren

Hate to hear it Darren, was looking forward to seeing you.

Stiks

I know Kris, me too. Heck, my mouth was already waterin' over whatever you were plannin' to cook. Besides missing out on everyone's company, I'll miss seeing the Fall colors there. Year after year that area has some of the prettiest to be found.

Sure sounds like a good time.  I'm almost recovered from this years' elk hunt so I might be able to get down there.  John, I sent you an e-mail.  Thanks, Steve

I will bring some moose burger to camp as well...

Thank you, AH7.
Bona, I had not forgotten....
Deliver an 88k pound, 12 wide excavator, this a.m. and head for the house.....be there mid-afternoon (Brent and I)..good Lord willing and creeks don't rise...

Good Luck Fellars  :thumbsup:

I was going through the freezer and came upon a boneless rear quarter from the button buck I killed last year.  Got a dry rub on it right now and will slow roast it tonight for some camp meat.  Should make for some great afternoon sandwiches.  MMMMMmmmmmmm.

Fixing to leave the house as soon as the mail runs, Hoping my Bama twister shows up today.

I'll keep the lantern on LOL

I will hopefully roll in about noon tommorrow. Still can't beleive I have 4 days to myself!


Rob

Well first Darren bails on me and now my brother dumps me.  Starting to see a pattern!  Guess I'll drive the Corolla and pack light now.  I don't need them sums-a-beeches anyhow.  I got real friends coming gawsh dangit.

Seriously though, I'm gonna pack really light and make this as simple as possible now.  Might just bum a spot in one of y'all's camp if there is space.  See ya all in a couple days.

I will leave in the am as soon as I get my son to school. Should be there late morning. No teepee, just couldn't work it out. My sister and her husband will be there Fri. evening or Sat. am.

Oh ya! I got one of John Rook's arrows to hunt with this season. It came today and flies really well out of my Steve Russell selfbow. No modifications needed!

Can anyone tell me if a blunt will take down a grouse? I'm hoping to get a shot at one during the hunt.

I made a dozen squirrel/grouse arrows but I don't want to shoot broadheads into the air on public grounds.

John S.

I'm gonna try and get out there tomorrow morning and set up a tent and other items. I was gonna leave my tent up till Sunday and won't be there to use it Saturday if you wanna bunk with me Thursday and Friday and use it Saturday and Sunday...I'll warn you though I sometimes sounds like a really big chainsaw....LOL!! I'm gonna drive out while here at work and see who is all out there tonight.

John  :campfire:

I'm bunkin' with Stiks.  He said he will have the room.  I appreciate the offer though.  

He'll have boots on the ground tomorrow and promised to have some sorta camp meat by thte time I arrive  :)  

I pulled the button back hindquarter out of the oven a couple hours ago.  I had to sample it.  You'll all be lucky to get a share I tell ya'!

Darn, the weather looks to be really warm.
Anyways,I'll bring some of my toys and a friend or two may drop by as well. Still a good idea to set up some stands fo when the weather turns cooler...and we can always have fun on the archery range...

Do you guys actually see grouse on the forest.  I used to hunt them back in the 80's and 90's, but I haven't seen one in that area in over 15 years.

I will miss you Derren,  I'm in need of some kinda primal tracking experiance and from what I remember you the man.  Waiting for Billy to pick me up. Think I will go shoot some.  Cant wait to see everyone.

I've never seen a grouse down there near the campground.  I have seen and heard a few near the Sturgeon Hollow section of JWSF which is close by and has some great deer hunting and turkey huting too.  Nice lake to boot.  Darren and I have hunted there a couple times during this hunt in the past.  Got turned around there too stump shooting in the dark.  "Cost" us an extra 30 minutes of hiking.  Dang!

It's about half  hour minutes away from the campground.

Good luck tonight and tomorrow Brent.  Call me when you kill something.

OK, I am off work and headed South.  Look for kill photos on Sunday!

John, I'll came home later from work than planned and won't fight it tonight. I will be there approx. 10 am tomorrow morning, pitch tent and then see what I'll do. Will probably place a stand on some private land I have permission to hunt on to replace an older stand. Then we'll see what time is left.

hope you all have fun, i'm still bummed that i couldn't join you but I should be able to get out there soon if a friend will take me.

Sorry I could not make it either. Next year for sure. I hope that everyone has a fun time! I also hope you all post many pics!

Just rolled in the door. Had a great time and met some fine folks. Was in great company for sure. The deer just didn't seem to be moving but maybe the boys and Bona will tag one tommarrow.

Stiks

we came late seen 3 deer,1 squirrel and 2 grouse....turned into the best stump shooting day ever.......

Glad that those at home made it safely!!

Okay guy's lets get some pics up today!!

I'm hanging with the fam tonight so no time to upload pics.  As for deer, well they weren't exactly moving  :)   I did have one come into my setup last night but she got downwind of me and blew out.  Troy Breeding was squirrel hunting with blunts when a forkie pops up less than 30 yards away this morning.

Overall it was a great time with about a dozen atttendees.  Stories and pics to follow.  Thanks to all that came.

Home and mostly unpacked...

Like was already said, Good times, great food and Better Folks..!!

Did manage to see three does and part of one buck....no shots and lots of warmth!!

All adds up to; I will be back next year!!!

Hope to see more "newbies"; then!!

This was the first group I have been on in years. Had one heck of a time. I'll darn sure be there next year.

Best camp cook award from me goes to Stix. That dude is a walking camp store and dang sure knows how to put on a feed bag. Thumbs up Chris!!!

Looking forward to next year.

Troy

I had a doe come in on me at 30 yds. I can make the occasional 30 yd shot on targets but won't try it on the most beautiful animal on earth. Especially with like a dozen saplings in between!

Two fawns ran through with her and they came back. I tried some calling to try and get one to come within range but it winded me. Stood there and blew 20 times. Then another 50 times as she ran the hills.

Where I hunted the most would be a great place to train for an elk hunt!

Great folks there! Great food! Had a blast! It was my first time but I will definitely NOT be my last!

Bona

I had a great time! Going back to work after a weekend like that is a real bummer.

I want everyone to know that if your ever in my neck of the woods it would be a pleasure to hunt with you guys and gals again.

Already thinking about next year!


Rob

:campfire:

I arrived Friday night to find a bunch of people already fed and sittin by the fire.  In the past we have had 5-8 people show up.  I think we had more than that.  I'm sure I'll forget someone but here goes (forgive me my North-of-40 memory on some names):

Me
Billy
Brent ""Burnt"
Chris "Stiks..."
Troy Breeding
Bona and ???
Rob W.
Eric and wife (Angie?)
John "American Hunter7" and family
Merl
Roland "Tecumtha" and ???
Joe "Nighthawk" and ???

We all shot the shoot for a while and I hit the bed before midnight.  Some folks, who won't be named (Brent and Chris among others I am sure) stayed up 'til after 2:30!!!

Up at 5:30 and out to one of my favorite inside corners in the world.

   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB01.jpg)

The colors exploded like a fireworks show with the sunrise.

   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB02.jpg)

The weather was good in the early morning but it warmed quickly on its way to 85 for the high.  The early October timeframe and the hot weather made for some tough deer hunting.

Lot's of squirrels were spared a shot this morning.  By the time I'd concluded that I would not hurt my chances at the deer, they had all cleared out.  I spent 3 hours in this spot and then stillhunted through some bedding areas that had oaks dropping acorns.  Not a deer was seen or spooked and little fresh sign was found.  Yikes!

Back at camp, I found most of the others had the same experience.  Here's a pic of my first night's accomodations.

   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB03.jpg)

That's "Stiks" sticking his head out of his cabin tent.  Here's another view.

   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB08.jpg)

It sure was a nice room for very little rent.

The afternoon was whiled away with trading, talking, snoozing and eating.

   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB04.jpg)
Stiks with a quiver demo.


   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB05.jpg)
Billy and Stiks fixin to fight I think.

 (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB06.jpg)  

Brent, Rob W. and Merle comapring warpaint.

Billy's awesome homemade Teardrop Camper.  More of that later.
  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB07.jpg)

The evening hunt was fun but only produced a doe coming into my setup but blowing out of there when she got downwind.

The rest of the folks reported about the same.  It was in the high 70's at sunset though so what did we expect?

Stiks had to go celebrate his daughter's sweet sixteen so a change of accomodations was in order for me.  Roland offered a spot in his tipi but the nice weather and my laziness at not wanting to move to another site made me choose a more open-air feel.

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB12.jpg)

Billy used his popup canopy to keep the sap and crap off his creation but he saved me a corner to do the same as I slept   :)  

It was so comfortable that I failed to wake up in time to hit the prime in the morning so I decided to just sleep in.  The weather was a lot cooler and I regretted my laziness later.

Here's a few more pics from the 2 days.

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB11.jpg)
A very cool tree seat with soem wood burning made by Rob W.

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB10.jpg)
Roland and Troy's camps.

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB09.jpg)
Billy and Stiks at it again.  What's up with those guys.  Peace, love and peanut butter guys!  Dang!

(http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB22.jpg)

Brent, Joe, Mrs. Eric and Eric.

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB21.jpg)

Holy crap what is that!!!???

Billy's Camper

 (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB23.jpg)   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB24.jpg)   (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB25.jpg)

Troy cooking lunch.  

(http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB20.jpg)

Bona's Camp
  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB15.jpg)    (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB17.jpg)    (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB18.jpg)    (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB19.jpg)

And finally, the view from our camp.

  (http://jdspics.webs.com/photos/2011-Southern-Indiana-Bowhunt/SIB26.jpg)

Thanks to all who came.  We'll do another little camp in early January.  Should be colder at least   :)

:clapper:  

Thanks John!

Great story and camp. Wish I could have been there.

Had a great time and look forward to Jan.

HEY, HEY !!

Whadda ya doin...??!!??

That guy needs to get outta the truck more..

er,uh,...watch for Scifres and his camera..    :biglaugh:  glad I have friends    :rolleyes:    :jumper:  

Don't laff Darren, it coulda been you ...Missed you Brother!

Uh... John I feel strangely violated by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.  Is that big foot sneaking up behind me? Quick, Chris throw it some peanut butter.

A little late I know, been busy but sure was a pleasure meeting you all. Maybe next year there will be some cooler temps and we all get a deer. Would'nt that be a feast.
If nothing else I learned how to pop the bottom out of a beer bottle so I can practice knapping.lol