Trad Gang
Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: KAZ on December 05, 2015, 10:10:00 AM
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Well Tradgang, the Sun Has Set on Iowa's 2015 Early Archery Season and I believe it's time to reflect.... :campfire:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151204_153008388.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151204_153008388.jpg.html)
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(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20150923_064004393_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20150923_064004393_HDR.jpg.html)
As I reflect on the early whitetail season & 2015 in general, I'm mindful that our "Freedom" is not Free. As I was walking my dog on September 23rd, 2015 enjoying a beautiful Sunrise ordained by God Himself, I looked back at the horizon... Our Nation's Flag was alive and I could not help but take a moment to reflect & pray. :notworthy: My ultimate Allegiance is to God the Father, through Faith in Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit's empowerment. My most heartfelt appreciation, gratitude, and respect goes out to ALL who have served past & present, sacrificing everything that we might be Free & truly LIVE! This includes our Armed Forces, Law Enforcement, Medical Professionals, & Civilians that stand ready to Fight & Protect for God & Country! Well done... :notworthy:
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Amen brother! Well said. This is something I try to impress upon my boys daily so they never forget the sacrifice of those that have come before them. Let us all never forget!
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:campfire:
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I have a feeling there is more to come! :archer2:
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:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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Reflect on... :campfire:
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Thank you for checking in and tending the fire... :campfire: Indeed, there's more to come! :archer2:
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It's been awhile since I've done a Season Update or Harvest Thread. However, rest assured I'm still toting my Black Widow 54" KB Dream Bow! She's 53lbs @28" Draw (I draw closer to 27.5"), and I'm using 29" Beman MFX Classic 400 Arrows, 50 Grain Brass Inserts, with VPA 250Grain 1-1/4" Cutting Diameter 3-Blade Broadheads. If you haven't seen it and you're interested in understanding more about my Dream Bow, here's the initial thread:
http://tradgang.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=123089#000000
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It seems like every year that goes by becomes a little more challenging to maintain or find places to hunt. Since 2012, I lost another property due to new ownership so I'm down to one very small private spot, my county park management hunt, and Iowa Public Wilderness areas. And as you might imagine, some of these areas are better than others... But no matter the setbacks, I've got Dreams and a Passion inside to press on towards the prize! :notworthy:
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I'm a little rusty on the story telling and posting of pictures so if you'll allow me a little latitude, I'll dip back into 2014 as it provides some perspective for 2015... I will attempt to be concise so as not to drag on too long.......... :campfire:
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To keep it brief, I'll focus on my 2014 County Park Management Hunt. I've been doing this hunt for many, many years and we have certainly reached the "maintenance" phase of management. I'm so thankful to have this hunt... :bigsmyl:
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So entering the 2014 County Park Hunt, I was stoked to be toting my Bonus Anysex Permit and plans were to hold out as long as possible for an Iowa Giant :goldtooth: The one draw back to this hunt though is you have a special zone & limited time. Usually a week or two... Thankfully, I was afforded an additional early season zone & week to hunt due to a few open time slots. Time to get to work!
My scouting had led me to an active Pear Tree, so I setup my stand about 17 yards from the primary trail entering the Pear Tree apron... The focus of this spot will likely be a doe, but I'm ready should something with "Handles" make an appearance! :archer2:
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Now's as good a time as any to remind those at the :campfire: that one of my good friends and hunting partners is Ben "23feetupandhappy" here on Tradgang. So from here on out if I refer to "Ben", you'll know who I'm talking about...
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Now we're rolling! :)
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2014 October 9th 1st Evening Hunt:
I remember distinctly corresponding with Ben via text during this hunt and it was sloooooowwww....... We entered the last 15 minutes or so of shooting light and then it happened. A beautiful deer stepped out and cautiously moved towards my 17 yard shooting window. I've been waiting for this moment :help: May my arrow fly true.... :pray:
I pick my spot and focus with high intensity. This deer is mature & begins to edge forward. There's no way I dare audibly to stop it. I choose to stayed focused on my form, push-pull and then the loose........ :archer2:
I see the arrow in flight, and with the forward motion of the deer the impact looks a little back, but should still connect with lungs, and at worst... Liver. The deer bolts back where it came from and I lose it in the brush. I listen intently. Maybe 30 Seconds to a minute later I hear a sharp rustling of leaves, then a pause and another shorter duration of rustling leaves, then ALL quiet.... I text Ben and say "It's not slow anymore" Darkness arises & uncertainty sets in. The rustling was very close but I could not place where it really was. It was on my left and my left ear is a little weak. It was close enough that I'm concerned if it's my deer, I'd bump it. So, I choose to slip out quietly with no flash light until I get to my arrow for inspection. So imagine my best impression of Elmer Fudd in the dark slipping ever so quietly along the trail to reach my arrow without spooking anything. I reach the fork closest to the rustling and make a 90 degree turn right where the deer originally walked & exited!!! I then turn my light on dim and find my arrow. Good color Blood, but not a real soaking...
I make my way to the truck where Ben & I discuss the situation. I'm churning on what to do. Ben is in the let's go check it out camp, I'm in the feet dragging mode of questioning if I'm back too far for such a quick death... It's plenty cold, and my conservative side tells me to hold-off.
The recovery will have to wait til tomorrow morning. Unfortunately that means I'll have to do it myself as my hunting partner will not be available....
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:campfire: :coffee:
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I mean this literally as well, the Big Ten Football Championships are on!!! Iowa vs Michigan State and we are UNDEFEATED :thumbsup:
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quote:
Originally posted by Cyclic-Rivers:
:notworthy:
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That game was as good as it gets. U of M is always my #1, but Iowa is like my second home and #2 college team. Sorry to see their undefeated season come to and end but that was sure an exciting game to watch. Now back to your updates!
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Back to the story... So, the decision has been made to be conservative and do the recovery in the morning. I was confident the deer would expire, just not certain of the timing & distance of the trail. With coyotes in the area, this is always a tough decision to make so there was some anxiousness of what the recovery would look like... :notworthy:
If I wasn't so conservative being Elmer Fudd with my flashlight turned off as I exited the night before I would have found her & Ben could have been a part of it! Oh well, I made the best decision I could at the time. God Blessed my efforts and kept her nice & cold, plus no coyotes!!!!! She was perfect!
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141010_071129864.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141010_071129864.jpg.html)
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She was absolutely huge! Take a look at these backstraps on an oversized cooler.... :saywhat:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141010_111126351_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141010_111126351_HDR.jpg.html)
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As a reminder, I'll keep 2014 about my County Park hunt to maintain the relevance to 2015's season...
It's October 10th 2014 and I have one beautiful doe in the freezer, I'm toting my Bonus Anysex permit AND I'm on my way to earning another chance at the privilege for a 2015 anysex bonus permit...
I'm stoked and hunting hard!!! :campfire:
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Great start to your season! And sorry about the game last night - I was sure rooting for the Hawkeye's to pull that off off. They have had a great season.
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Great start to your season! And sorry about the game last night - I was sure rooting for the Hawkeye's to pull that off off. They have had a great season.
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So the rule in Iowa is if you don't shoot two does during the prior season you don't get Anysex?
Seems like a pretty harsh motivation tool.
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As I eluded to before, the County Park Hunt is no easy task... We're in the maintenance phase and pressure is high. I gave it my best effort and the "extra" early season Ben & I obtained came to a close... Now on to our selected "rut" season we drew to capitalize on the "Bonus Anysex Permit" in my pocket...
Ben did not have a Bonus Permit, so this means we'll be hunting together less due to him pursuing Wilderness Bucks, while I pursue the County Park. Can't blame him, Wilderness Bucks OR County Park Does...? :archer2: Don't forget, I'm also ready for does should the opportunity arise to earn a chance at next year's bonus permit...
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Originally posted by Whip:
So the rule in Iowa is if you don't shoot two does during the prior season you don't get Anysex?
Seems like a pretty harsh motivation tool.
Whip, I know I'm gonna confuse some folks with my thread / update by tying in 2014 and a "County Park Hunt". I apologize in advance to all! If I were better about posting as it happens, this would probably be more clear...
To answer your question specifically. My update so far is about a special "County Park Management Zone" in Iowa. There are special rules to this hunt so it's primary purpose is population control. As a special incentive / opportunity they offer a limited number of "Anysex Bonus Tags" to be distributed to the participants. The conservation staff that administrates the hunt came up with the following policy. Any participant that shoots (2) or more does will be eligible for a Bonus Anysex permit drawing for the following year. If there are more hunters that shoot (2) does than there are DNR allotted bonus permits, we enter a drawing to see who gets them.
Our normal Iowa Statewide Rules DO NOT require that you shoot two does to earn an anysex tag.
Hope this helps. Sorry for the confusion.
It is rewarding and an opportunity to promote Traditional Archery to the Conservation Board and Compound Hunters that participate in this management hunt. Ben & I "Hold our Own" in the harvest on this special hunt. We're usually the only (2)Traditional Bowhunters in the group... :archer2: We need a Bowhunter Safety Certificate, Attend Orientation, & Pass a Shooting Proficiency Test to qualify...
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I'm sorry KAZ, I really wasn't asking a question. Just made a poor attempt at humor with a play on words. :dunno:
Carry on with your story please! I have Iowa points burning a hole in my pocket and am hoping to hunt there next year. I'll be following closely!
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So, I'm hunting hard all over this zone. Lone Wolf Alpha & Sticks on my back for hang & hunts, Fixed Stands for Stealth and I cannot buy a mature buck sighting. Every where I go, I seem to uncover a new forkhorn, six point, etc... A 1-1/2 year old small 8pt was the highlight/largest. In addition, very few deer period so I'm not getting a chance for my second doe either. Time is ticking, and I'd love to pursue Wilderness Bucks as well! Tic..Toc.....
My season will close soon and I am reflecting on what's truly important. The pursuit, the journey is why I do this and I am blessed to have this County Park Hunt to enjoy my passion.... Though some have far more land access & resources, there indeed are some that have FAR LESS than I, and even some that have lost access physically through health issues... I am Blessed far more than I deserve. God is Good, All the Time God is Good. May we all keep our heads up, Happy for those who have more, be Thankful for what we have, and offer up All that we can for those who have less... :notworthy:
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Even though things are slow, we're never bored are we??? I'm focused and need to stay mentally tough/prepared...
As I recall the distance was approximately 22 yards, but who's counting when you shoot instinctive :goldtooth:
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November 8th, 2014:
A beautiful Saturday Morning, with the whole weekend ahead of me... A RUT weekend no less! You know the feeling, a day where you're free with no tension of work schedule, the day is a gift yet to be opened...
We all know that this doesn't guarantee it will go the way we choose, but it is a gift none the less... Praise God for our very breath to continue on. May He be Glorified in and through it. :notworthy:
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:saywhat:
:goldtooth: sounding good so far!
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I'm soaking up my beautiful surroundings and it is slooowww..... I'm gonna stay in the stand as long as I can because you never know when a Giant could make there way by... Stay alert!
It's late morning and finally I hear footsteps... :archer:
Now's a good time to mention that in the predawn shuffle, I'm missing my shooting glove so it's oh naturale... in the November woods! :pray: It's now or never, focus like there's no tomorrow on the opposite arm pit. The draw, the push-pull, the ungloved draw hand settles tight to the face, bow canted for the steep angle, keep pushing, then the loose....... :archer2:
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quote:
Originally posted by 23feetupandhappy:
:saywhat:
:campfire:
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:thumbsup: :campfire:
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Praise God, the shot is absolutely perfect!!!! The buck takes off a break neck speed and I can see blood from the stand... I immediately decide to call my wife and ask if she'd like to enjoy the wonderful Saturday Morning with me on what should be an amazing blood trail & short recovery.
She's ALL IN and we decide our dog MUZZY has been waiting for this day his whole life!!! :notworthy:
My beautiful wife & little buddy... The "Tracking Team"
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_103627880_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_103627880_HDR.jpg.html)
He needed a ride to ensure he didn't get too many burrs, nor too tired before the serious work began..... :biglaugh:
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(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092219274.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092219274.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092333681_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092333681_HDR.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092315492.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092315492.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092350028.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_092350028.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105018181_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105018181_HDR.jpg.html)
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The blood trail is looking good thanks to those VPA 250Grain 1-1/4"Cutting Diameter 3 Bladers...! :saywhat:
We had some straightline winds damage this area so this is a mine field of uprooted mature trees. He ran straight up this root ball and over these downed trees. My wife, with the Blue Bag is the destination. It was not graceful.............
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105530345.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105530345.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105555252.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105555252.jpg.html)
Took a charge on the tree trunk...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105603110.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_105603110.jpg.html)
Muzzy is enjoying the "Finish Line".... :goldtooth:
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:campfire: keep it coming.....
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My 2014 County Park Bonus Anysex Harvest! I did my best and God blessed my efforts.
Thank you Lord, it was a good day... :notworthy:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_110203966.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_110203966.jpg.html)
Exit
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_114048713_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_114048713_HDR.jpg.html)
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A wonderful buck that provided great joy & reward!
"Always remember to measure every achievement or goal obtained in proportion to the effort involved"
I'm not sure if Mike Mitten authored this quote, but I think of him often... Thank you Mike for your example!
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_111634251.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_111634251.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_112307301_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_112307301_HDR.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_111816704_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20141108_111816704_HDR.jpg.html)
A very unique buck, though the pictures don't show it he is palmated with multiple sticker points on his bases. He landed with his head looking up and rack wedged between those tree trunks... Though he didn't really break his neck, it was "Break Neck Speed"... :saywhat:
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To wrap up 2014, I moved on to Public Land Wilderness Bucks immediately following my County Park hunt. I tried hard during the tail end of the Rut but it was not meant to be. Mature buck sightings were few, but I enjoyed every minute of my time in God's creation doing what I love....
January 2015 arrives and I still have a desire to harvest a second doe if at all possible to earn the privilege of a chance at a 2015 Bonus Anysex Tag in the County Park... The weather is cold and snowy so some of the "Fair Weather Folks" have left the scene. I ask the Conservation Team if I can get back in the game and they say "Go for it, but it's been brutal and folks aren't having much success." Well, I'm not looking for easy... I'm looking to give it my best effort and enjoy whatever God has in store for me.... :archer:
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Here is the scenario:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20150110_145501296_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2014%20Bowhunting%20Season/IMG_20150110_145501296_HDR.jpg.html)
I'm in a stand that is bordering Private Land that has minimal to no pressure, and virtually all of the FOOD! Not ideal for me in late season... The weather is cold, the deer have been pressured on my side of the fence, and being stealthy is not easy. I hunt a few times and it's clear the deer are on a pattern that is skirting me on the private land about 80 yards away. Doesn't look good. They wait til near dark, then make a B-Line to the ag field single file...
January 10th, 2015 (Final Day of Iowa Late Season 2014/2015)
I'm all in and I will give it my best til the buzzer. Come what may, when the evening comes I will Bless the Lord, O my Soul & Worship His Holy Name :saywhat:
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Oh my... It's working!!! I cannot let up on the call though. When I stop they resume their plan to hit the Ag Field, so I keep it going til they're on my side of the fence! I now prepare myself for the shot, should it happen... They cross the creek and are now on my side! Unfortunately I'm a smoke stack breathing in this COLD WEATHER! Uggh... Oh well, keep breathing as that seems to be important..... :goldtooth:
Now they're nervous with the smoke stack in the tree and no "Doe in Estrus" to be found... :goldtooth: The second deer enters the window and it's the moment I prepare for...
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Somewhere around 27 yards with mere minutes of legal time, I focus on what will close the season...
I pray that God will Guide my arrows for quick humane kills, I talk to Him about my sincere desire to make good ethical discerning choices, and that in my heart I'd much rather not have the shot opportunity at all than to wound an animal. That being said, nothing is for certain and all we can do is prepare, do our best, and dedicate ourselves to what happens next....
In full confidence, I draw with intense focus on the "pocket", shoulders limber and engaged, push-pull, anchor comes, then the loose........ I see a flicker of color ingrained in my mind that I "think" found the "pocket"... She darts 10 yards, stops....then tips over. INCREDIBLE!!! Praise God for a wonderful close to the 2014/2015 Season in a frigid snow covered landscape! :notworthy: :notworthy:
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:thumbsup:
:campfire: :campfire: :campfire:
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Thank you Tradgangers for the "Latitude" to share my 2014 preamble to the 2015 Season... It sets the table for the reflection to follow. I'm gonna let this settle a bit, I've got some other responsibilities to tend to.
I hope & pray the fellowship of the :thumbsup: ____ :archer2:
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Enjoying the story!! :campfire:
But...
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Originally posted by Whip:
So the rule in Iowa is if you don't shoot two does during the prior season you don't get Anysex?
Seems like a pretty harsh motivation tool.
... Whip's humor must be acknowledged! :laughing:
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Kaz, thanks so much for taking us along on your season!!!!
Your faith and thanksgiving are encouraging to us all! I hope you have continued success in the future and look forward to reading about your exploits!
Good luck, shoot straight and God bless,
Rodd
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Originally posted by Tsalt:
quote:
Originally posted by Whip:
So the rule in Iowa is if you don't shoot two does during the prior season you don't get Anysex?
Seems like a pretty harsh motivation tool.
... Whip's humor must be acknowledged! :goldtooth:
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Thanks Rodd, glad you enjoyed the beginning. There's more to come when I free up & grab the computer... :campfire:
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Congrats on a great year! You truly are blessed. Great story telling and am appreciation for what bowhunting is all about.
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Thanks Whip!
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2015 Rolled in with a good start that opened opportunities for another year... It's no secret that private land access is a challenge to obtain without family or connections. Spring Turkey Season found me busy at work, with family, and public land as my only option. I really have a passion for Turkey Hunting and have been doing it for 34 years. I've harvested many birds over the years and it really doesn't matter if I'm the one who shoots them or if I'm able to help somebody harvest one... I just love the interaction with the gobblers and calling them in.
A window of opportunity opened up from a co-worker who said I could hunt his property along the river. He'd already harvested one in the early season and he said I could go for it 4th season... I was stoked and waited for my opportunity! :saywhat: I was stoked & revitalized :goldtooth:
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This opportunity was a Huge Blessing and quite a pick-me-up emotionally that recharged my batteries to just be out in God's Creation on a beautiful piece of property and maybe, just maybe strike a conversation with a gobbler! Woohoo :campfire:
The evening before I had hatched a plan on a great location to place the blind. With a printout of the property maps to help guide me to my destination, I arrived in plenty of time to setup & get settled before the turkeys began their serenade...
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As light came upon my surroundings, I listened intently for the woods to come alive from inside the blind. My setup looked perfect. A DSD Jake in a breeding set with a hen, and one additional hen decoy ready for action...
The woods were really quiet around me with only a few distant gobbles... Time to start a conversation with the "locals".... :wavey: I went to work with the mouth calls and it wasn't long and I had a jake coming my way. With one day left in the season, I was not about to question the gift God was offering :notworthy: The jake made his way into my spread and I was ready! I focused on my spot intently, shoulders limber, push-pull, reaching anchor, then the loose....... :pray:
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I give it a few minutes before I decide to slip out and look for my arrow, assess the site for blood and potential prognosis.... I find the arrow and blood at the impact site. I then decided to settle back into the blind and give him 30-45 minutes or so before I begin my search.
The arrow:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_062354154.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_062354154.jpg.html)
So after the waiting period I headed out to find my prize. I followed the flight path the bird took which thankfully was an open planted field, but it was bordering a nasty thicket, brushy draw, and creek basin. I had made it to where I lost sight of him from the blind and just turned the bend...
My prize! :notworthy:
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Here's a few pictures to document the moment, Enjoy!
A view from where the Jake was when I shot him. 14-15 yards...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080234332.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080234332.jpg.html)
Another angle of the setup...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080357613.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080357613.jpg.html)
A Close Up...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080159724_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080159724_HDR.jpg.html)
A pic to prove it was me...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080519637_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_080519637_HDR.jpg.html)
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Time to Pack Him Out! I've got a long walk back...
Loaded Up & secure
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_084557103.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_084557103.jpg.html)
After the long walk back, after this it's back to work... Gladly :goldtooth:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_090338208.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_090338208.jpg.html)
It was a wonderful ending to the 2015 Spring Turkey Season. Thank you to my Farmer Friend...
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The VPA 250 Grain 1-1/4"Cutting Diameter 3-Blade Broadheads are awesome.....
Entry is on the left (His Right Side) / Exit is on the right (His Left Side)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_101301567_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_101301567_HDR.jpg.html)
Close Up #1
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_101322005_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_101322005_HDR.jpg.html)
Close Up #2
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_102330505_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Turkeys/IMG_20150516_102330505_HDR.jpg.html)
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That's a big oll hole in that turkey!!!!!
Great memories!!!!!
Looking forward to the rest >>>-------->
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Great story bud!! Congrats!! Loving that KB!!!
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Thanks Ben & Sean! As soon as I free up, I'll share my 2015 Whitetail season to date... :campfire:
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Spring turns to Summer, and Summer trickles into Fall. The joy of Dreams fulfilled on January 10th with the Season Ending Doe, and the May 16th Final Weekend Jake floods back deep within me as I choose to Reflect on what God Has done & Is doing in my life. I'm a firm believer in the importance of memorials, photos, written Reflections, etc.. that represent times & places that God's Love, Faithfulness, Power, Grace, and Mercy were vividly revealed to me. It helps to encourage me when times get tough, or I feel alone in this world.... Life indeed is a gift, thank you God for All that we have, all that you have done, and all that you continue to do in revealing yourself to us each & everyday when we take time to reflect.... :notworthy:
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This really takes me back to the beginning of this thread when I led with the following picture and words...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20150923_064004393_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20150923_064004393_HDR.jpg.html)
As I reflect on the early whitetail season & 2015 in general, I'm mindful that our "Freedom" is not Free. As I was walking my dog on September 23rd, 2015 enjoying a beautiful Sunrise ordained by God Himself, I looked back at the horizon... Our Nation's Flag was alive and I could not help but take a moment to reflect & pray. :notworthy: My ultimate Allegiance is to God the Father, through Faith in Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit's empowerment. My most heartfelt appreciation, gratitude, and respect goes out to ALL who have served past & present, sacrificing everything that we might be Free & truly LIVE! This includes our Armed Forces, Law Enforcement, Medical Professionals, & Civilians that stand ready to Fight & Protect for God & Country! Well done... :notworthy:
"May We Never Forget"
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Time to "Carry On"
2015 October 1st Opening Day:
Full of hope, full of dreams, and it is good.......
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151001_162713526_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151001_162713526_HDR.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151001_162722740.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151001_162722740.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151001_162826944.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151001_162826944.jpg.html)
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Well, all the anticipation of opening day and the woods coming alive with Iowa Whitetails will remain a dream. A genuine "Goose Egg", zippo... :goldtooth: ... :archer2:
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So, my tiny private spot did not pan out, and Public Land Wilderness is usually reserved for later in the Season... Picture Iowa Giants Rutting :saywhat:
Ahhh yesss.... I have "permission" to hunt a wonderful County Park during the Rut this year, AND I have been blessed with a Bonus "Anysex" Tag to be used at my discretion.......... :saywhat: :saywhat:
Ben & I were fortunate to gain access to the County Park for an extra season this year due to an unfilled time-slot... :goldtooth: We BOTH will have opportunity to Harvest a Buck so the excitement is HIGHER than normal... Woohoo!
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Remember... The County Park Hunt is no easy task. We're in maintenance mode on the deer numbers and it takes some woodsmanship, strategy, & perseverance to make it happen. I figured I'd contact the hunters that were hunting previously in our zone. Their only report - "It's dead in there, didn't see squat... Good Luck :archer:
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2015 October 16th - Evening Hunt
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151018_173633119.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151018_173633119.jpg.html)
I'm 17 yards off the entry trail to the Pear Tree. Just like last year, only later so there's less pears... The wind is not perfect for the shooting lane so I'll need to be ready to make it happen. Once again it's sloooowww, but I've seen this before. :saywhat: Finally, foot steps.... A wonderful mature doe steps out but still partially covered by foliage. Be patient, be ready, stay loose..... She takes a few more steps and here we go again, Big Miss wiggy.... Starts to check the air for intruders. To be fair, I'd do the same thing if I were her, as it's fixin to get serious real quick :saywhat: She makes her advance, and just like last year no way am I stopping her. I pick my spot in the pocket and burn a hole with all of my mind & vision. The draw, shoulders limber, up & engaged, push-pull, pushing, reach anchor, then the loose..... :archer2:
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:archer:
I know how this one ends :jumper:
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quote:
Originally posted by 23feetupandhappy:
:campfire:
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quote:
Originally posted by Tsalt:
quote:
Originally posted by 23feetupandhappy:
:notworthy:
Praise God, it doesn't happen that often. But I'm nothing special and have indeed missed... One thing that helps, though is no guarantee is to prepare/stay loose but focused, and setup my hunting scenarios for success.... 17 Yards for me is one of the best balances of close but not too close to the animal. I go mostly undetected, the shot angle is good, and my vision can support picking a specific spot with laser like focus. My arrows are Heavy & Tuned up nice so they shoot where I'm looking... :archer2: Of course, not every opportunity happens at that distance so I'm able to make it happen outside that boundary but by being purposeful about my hunting setups, discerning when & when NOT to shoot, I set myself up for success... There may be a connection to this line of thinking later in the season reflection..... :dunno:
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The arrow is on it's way.... Once again, similar to last year the flicker of Fletching appears a little back likely due to her forward momentum... She makes a mad dash through a large brush mound and up into the field. At 40 yards she stops, motionless, holding really tight. My mind interprets the reaction, the damage, the prognosis.... I think she's got that slow sway going on (Come on, go down!), her head & neck begin to crane ever so slowly side to side, and stretch.... Just then, a small buck joins the scene and she's off with a quick dash to disappear.... I immediately start processing my next moves and the recovery plan.... Darkness comes and I inspect the arrow. Arrow is soaked with good blood. Definitely some lung blood, but I sense there's more to it............ Likely liver as well. No gut smell at all. All good, but again uncertainty on specific time of death. Temperature is dropping rapidly and will ultimately be FREEZING tonight. Thank you Lord for that option.... I talk to Ben via text & phone to replay the scenario. Once again, He's on the side of "Go Get Her!" I convince myself to go to the High School Football game and come back 3-4 Hours later banking on worst case one lung & liver... Best case totally stiff deer that died on it's last dash.
It was good to find balance and spend time with my family at the game, enjoy Pizza with them, etc... I headed back to the scene. The blood trail was good til I got to the Field grass. Much harder to see the blood so I start to question. Temperature is not an issue, but coyotes may be... I find where she was standing and there's good blood. But it's hard to find the exit trail. I can tell the directions she's heading & have a firm idea of where she likely went to bed or expire. There's a fence opening that leads to a thicket about 25-30 yards away. I decide I'll slip over there like Elmer Fudd again, really cautious so I don't bump her and see what I see. I'm doing the limited flashlight deal to be stealthy. I get to fence opening and crouch down (Shouldn't have done that), take a little gander with limited light. Nothing... I'm coming back a daybreak so I don't bump my prize... I then pray that God would protect my deer from coyotes and the recovery would be quick. :saywhat: :goldtooth:
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I have to tell you, the photography is so much better when Ben is around, but when I'm alone and moving fast, it's downright poor.... Sorry folks, I'm gonna post these so you know I'm not just a "word picture" guy spinning yarn............. Please know I have the utmost respect for this animal and wish I had better photos to show & honor her. May the shot placement documentation & narration grow your database for your own recoveries... I know Ben & I learn from every situation.
Entry
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_074852601.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_074852601.jpg.html)
Exit
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_075504134.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_075504134.jpg.html)
What a wonderful start to the 2015/2016 Iowa Archery Season. A beautiful Mature Doe at the County Park. One step closer to potentially earning the privilege of another 2016 Bonus Anysex permit also... The meat will be a welcome addition to a freezer that has LOTS of room.... :goldtooth:
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Lots of good meet there!!!
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I have to tell you all that KAZ is a very humble and selfless person.. He was hesitant to post his season thus far and I encouraged him to keep going.
If anyone ever doubts the ability to harvest - these threads show the guys that are successful year in and year out.
I know these threads are used as motivation for many of us, so the more stories and pictures that can be shared by everyone keeps us all moving forward.
Last year I had my own traditional journey and he mentored me through the entire process. Helped me set up arrows, bow, showed me some form tips, and provided encouragement. When I finally harvested, he was there to offer congratulations and keep pushing me to dive deeper into trad.
I use these threads as motivation to continue on the trad journey. I found myself questioning my ability with a trad bow this year and the story/harvest threads keep me motivated to get back 'into the game'.
Between KAZ, 23feetupandhappy, and everyone else, I have plenty of fuel for my fire to start on next year's journey. My biggest fear is that I will have a dry year and not be able to provide any meat for the table. We all know it is possible with the right set up and plenty of practice to be just as successful with trad equipment.
Keep it coming!! :clapper:
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quote:
Originally posted by KAZ:
quote:
Originally posted by Tsalt:
quote:
Originally posted by 23feetupandhappy:
:thumbsup:
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Thanks TSalt. We're good, I didn't take it negatively at all. :thumbsup: I know you meant it complimentary. I'm glad you enjoy & find some benefit to my posts... I enjoy yours & Tradgang in general. Great bunch of folks, wonderful community/forum here... :campfire:
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2015 October 17th - Evening Hunt
So after recovering my doe this beautiful Saturday Morning, I was able to get her taken care of and my schedule was free for the evening. The wind was out of the West/SouthWest and I'd had my eye on a location we call "Cow Toes". It got it's name years ago when I located some scrapes & targeted the area. It's kind of a bottom funnel that drops off of a ridge into an apron/staging area before heading out into the field. The tracks that showed up in the scrape were HUGE :scared:
History: That first year I hunted "Cow Toes" was one of the first years Ben began to hunt out at the County Park with me. I'd been doing it for years... So on that morning hunt I rattled in a 135" 9pt that came right over to the scrape, through my apron shooting lane to check things out. I PASSED HIM thinking it wasn't "Cow Toes" :saywhat: Of course "Cow Toes" in my eyes would have to be the new Iowa State Record :knothead: I remember telling Ben and another friend about my morning and they both shook their head and said "I see".... :dunno: I never did kill "Cow Toes" :confused:
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The wind was tricky for a typical treestand ambush on "Cow Toes". The scrapes had not opened up yet which was kind of odd, but I did have one lightly rubbed tree that gave me hope that it may just be a little early. I decided opening a Mock Scrape to induce the action a little. The other benefit to this type of strategy is that it will potentially stop the deer right in my kill zone.... :saywhat: With no tree begging for a stand, enter the Double Bull Blind :saywhat: Let's hope it works... :pray:
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The sun is setting and it's looking like a "Goose Egg" is coming... :help: I've got a little "pocket" to shoot at but I'd like a little more. I know she's gonna do something, so I begin the shot sequence, intense on the pocket, she does that slow advance so she can give me a better look, too late, the sniper in the tent let's loose... :campfire:
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The gift of a beautiful Ground Blind Doe :notworthy:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG957665.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG957665.jpg.html)
Exit - Turns out she was "quartering to" me more than I thought. Good thing I was tighter in the pocket on the Entrance side...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_202111936.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_202111936.jpg.html)
This picture shows the "Blocking Tree" on the left...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_201842029.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151017_201842029.jpg.html)
Another benefit is that I have fulfilled that Harsh Motivation Requirement Whip speaks about... 2016 Should be pretty enjoyable for me... Thank you Lord :goldtooth:
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It's off to work for now, but I can tell you the next adventure comes with "Handles"....... :campfire: :campfire:
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:campfire:
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I'm feeling pretty good about the great start to the season with the 2 Does, it's definitely time to focus on bucks. I normally don't hit the Public Land Wilderness til the end of October or Early November & it's usually when Ben & I hunt together, so it will be the County Park & Bonus Buck Permit...
The goal is a nice mature buck, of course a GIANT would be icing on the cake. :notworthy:
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Before my decoy hunt I had decided to do some scouting for buck sign, and I have a few spots that historically will open up so I started there. One of the spots "finally" had it's first "rough-up", not even a full scrape but I knew it was the start of something :saywhat:
Well looky what I found............ :goldtooth:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/10220104.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/10220104.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/10220100.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/10220100.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/10220099.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/10220099.jpg.html)
I immediately decided to call him "Pretty Boy", as was a beautiful buck, but he sure looked BREAKABLE!!! I figured I'd have to kill him quick if I wanted him in tact....
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With "Pretty Boy" opening scrapes, it seemed like things were picking up... Ben harvested a great Buck on October 23rd :saywhat:
I hunted this stand a few times morning & night with only a few small bucks and a "Goose Egg" thrown in. However, they were messing with my Mock Scrape and that's all that mattered....
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Bring it!!!!
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Good stuff Kaz, Keep it coming!
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2015 October 29th - Evening Hunt:
It's the final day in this Zone so if I don't take "Pretty Boy" here & now, I'll have to see if I can find another spot to ambush him or I'll need to find a replacement target....
I'm waiting patiently...
PowerLines Behind Me
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151029_170117314_HDR.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151029_170117314_HDR.jpg.html)
Scrape Scenario
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151029_170537657.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151029_170537657.jpg.html)
The first deer to come in is a beautiful doe from the PowerLines and she coming into the scrape scenario. She gives me every opportunity for a shot, but I'm hoping she'll have something in tow... :banghead: so he stops, standing at 17 yards, quartering to a little, and staring my way. Not ideal.... We have this general stare down for minutes, tic...toc.....tic....toc.... I'm ready, but I need him to relax and get broadside. He doesn't fully relax, but he starts to turn away with a bend that exposes the pocket, and my mind sees broadside. I burn a hole in the pocket with my eyes, and I go on autopilot with shot sequence, you know my routine.... Then, the loose :archer2:
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The last thing I can remember of that arrow flight is a little flicker of fletch heading right towards the pocket, maybe a few inches back, but then I lose sight of it.... I didn't hear an impact, and the buck bolted back the way he came.... :notworthy:
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I showed up bright and early and began the search... I found a little more blood, but nothing significant. I reanalyzed the whole blood trail to build confidence that this deer should indeed be dead, he just needs to be found. The temperature had gotten real cold so that was not an issue, only coyotes to produce anxiety... My best hypothesis was that I had more likely hit one lung, maybe even a little of the second lung (Because I had Bubbles), but likely some liver and that the whole had plugged to some degree. Clearly if it was a double lung smoker, the blood trail would have led right to him. With this knowledge in mind, I'm thinking thicket to bed and maybe even water. Water is a long ways away, so it's a nasty thicket only 40 yards away that has my attention. It just so I happens I've had other deer go this direction in the past. There's a clear fence opening that leads into the thicket...
It's at this time that Ben arrives to help. Big relief, when Ben & I are together it goes much better for the both of us. As he stated in his thread we compliment each other well and both been quite instrumental in successful tracking jobs... Long story short, we calculated this deer should not have gone past 150-200 yards max so let's grid search the whole thicket. I'm off in some direction and I get a text. "I've got Blood" from Ben. Now, this is a code phrase that has been used in the past to indicate the deer has been found. But this seemed different, I wanted that to be true but he was stealthy. I fired back. Cool, well done... He tells me he's 75yards or so from the fence opening and to circle wide. I take my sweet time keeping an eye out for sign and the buck, and he begins to get ansy.... Finally I arrive and walk right up to him and he shows me some blood. I'm looking it over like a forensics analyst, and he bumps my attention a few steps away.... :notworthy: We high five it and enjoy the moment Praising God for this wonderful animal, harvest, recovery, and our friendship. Thank you Lord & Thank you Ben! :notworthy:
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My 2015 Bonus Buck...
His Final Resting Spot
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like13%20IMG_20151030_111332011.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like13%20IMG_20151030_111332011.jpg.html)
"Reflection"
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like5_IMG_7769.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like5_IMG_7769.jpg.html)
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like1_IMG_7782.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like1_IMG_7782.jpg.html)
On the cart...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like11_IMG_7748.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/Like11_IMG_7748.jpg.html)
He's a wonderful Iowa 10Pt, a lot of meat on this big boy, and memories that will last a lifetime... Praise God for it all :notworthy:
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Awesome!!! Looking forward to pics!!!
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... And there they are! Awesome buck bro!! Was that "pretty boy"?
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Originally posted by Tsalt:
... And there they are! Awesome buck bro!! Was that "pretty boy"?
No, "Pretty Boy" was a big wide 8pt... This beautiful 10pt came in and I decided he was the one....
However, I thought it added some suspense..... Am I right? :goldtooth:
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Originally posted by KAZ:
quote:
Originally posted by Tsalt:
... And there they are! Awesome buck bro!! Was that "pretty boy"?
No, "Pretty Boy" was a big wide 8pt... This beautiful 10pt came in and I decided he was the one....
However, I thought it added some suspense..... Am I right? :campfire:
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Thanks Ben, maybe next year "Pretty Boy" will blow up with some mass and not be so breakable...
Maybe the story with "Pretty Boy" continues to 2016 :saywhat: .. :archer2:
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Great year congrats Brother!
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I know who to call when I have a questionable blood trail! Great season!
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Thanks TJ & Josh! :campfire:
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After shooting my Bonus Buck on October 29th & Ben shooting his Statewide Buck October 23rd, that put Ben & I with different objectives during the RUT!... Ben would be hitting the County Park hard to fill his Bonus Buck permit with less incentive to hunt the "Wilderness", and I would be focused on my small private property & the occasional Public Land Wilderness opportunity. Long story short: The small private spot was like the desert with very few deer spotted and not one mature buck spotted. With only a few outings on Public Land Wilderness, I sat all day sits with limited results. I did have a close encounter with a nice 9pt but he was either at bad angles or twigs/brush in the way and I chose to pass the shot... Praise God for such a cool encounter! :notworthy:
Later in November, November 20th to be exact, we got hit with a fairly significant snowfall and I learned I'd have access to the Public Land Wilderness!!! :campfire: I changed the plan a little considering how the snow would affect my family, so I got up early and shoveled the snow and got everything squared on the home front before heading down for a late morning / rest of the day hunt! A little dicey on the roads this wintery day, but I've got dreams of a cruiser..... :goldtooth:
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2015 November 21st - Public Land Wilderness Winter Wonderland Hunt
I never really checked the official numbers on the snow totals, but it felt like 6-8" of fresh snow. I loaded up the Lone Wolf and packed in the warm stuff... Public Land for me is definitely "Hang & Hunt" scenarios. I head on in and it's clear the snow has taken over EVERYTHING :scared: There are no tracks to speak of until I get close to my desired location. I then pick up ONE set of tracks headed towards my stand site. Of course they're fresh as the snow came last night. I'm going quietly, then HE pops up at 20 yards! A small 8pt was bedded near my stand location and he likely had been there awhile as his bed was totally pristine pine needles. He had it made! With about 2" of snow on every twig/branch/nook/cranny in this woods you could not see anything. And walking through the woods was quite a pain. I didn't fit between the twigs & branches so you can imagine, every time you touch one, here comes the snow shower.... Oh well, I'm putting in the effort and surely this will grow the satisfaction/appreciation/reward. We don't really want easy, do we?... Nope :notworthy: However I'm in a pine tree and the heavy snow has branches hanging so low they are blocking a lot of my shooting windows. One of the branches even was at the base of my tree, having broken during the night.... Hopefully, the deer will walk into Picture #3, that's my best window for today.... :pray: :archer2:
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Pretty quiet and uneventful. We're either in full "Lockdown" or the Ruts definitely in the last trickle.... late afternoon, finally I've got some action. It's to my right so it's not in the picture. They are CLOSE, like 5 Steps close... Two of the smallest peewees I've seen yet come by, with momma in tow. Now I've got (1) specific county doe permit for this area, but this just doesn't feel right AND I'm hoping an Iowa Giant Cruiser will be on her tail............. :help: Guess where she's headed...Picture#3, my beautiful 17 yard opening. A bad place for her to seek refuge :notworthy:
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The 17 yard shot opportunity/shooting lane
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151121_143956210.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151121_143956210.jpg.html)
Thad is a good photographer, just like Ben...
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG950417.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG950417.jpg.html)
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The sun has set on 2015 Iowa Whitetail Archery Early Season... The Firearm Season is upon us, the woods will not be the same, but you can bet the Dream Lives On.... When Late Season Archery opens up, I'll resume the pursuit for my Statewide Wilderness "Giant".... :notworthy:
(http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff354/TJKasner/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151204_152857623.jpg) (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/TJKasner/media/2015%20Bowhunting%20Season/General%20Hunting%20Photos/IMG_20151204_152857623.jpg.html)
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Praise God indeed :campfire:
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Perfect culmination to our Iowa early bow split! I sure hope you can add to this after the bow season opens up once again in two weeks!
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That is one sweet read brother! !!!
Than I s so much for sharing!
God bless,
Rodd
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Congrats Kaz!
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Congratulations Kaz, thanks for sharing and great pictures. God Bless! :campfire:
Denny
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Thank you all for reading and the nice comments... :campfire:
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Congratulations on all your harvests!That was a great read...you were truly blessed!!
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Really good stuff Kaz. Beautiful buck!