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A F i r s t -C l A s s t i m e ... e v e ry t i m e . America’s #1 Trout Fishing Resort is Gaston’s. Our White River float trips for lunker trout are legendary from coast to coast. We do the work. All you do is fish – in style and comfort. Then there are the extras that make “resort” our last name. First-class lodging. One of the South’s finest restaurants featuring a spectacular view. A private club. Tennis and a pool. Nature trails for mountain biking and hiking. A conference lodge for your group meetings or parties. Even a private landing strip for fly-in guests.
1777 River Road, Lakeview, AR 72642 870-431-5202 • Email gastons@gastons.com Lat 36 20’ 55” N Long 92 33’ 25” W 2 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
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CONTENTS FALL WILD 2016 ARKANSASWILD.COM ¸ FAcebook.com/ArkansasWild
25
ARKANSAS SPORTING LIFE Sportsmen are defined by the lands they hunt
MEET MOUNTAIN BIKE HUNTER RICHIE LAMB. SEE PAGE 36.
PHOTO BY STEPHEN IRONSIDE
26 A VITAL WAY OF LIFE 28 IN PURSUIT OF WHITE-TAILED DEER 30 A RETURN TO THE BEAR STATE 32 HOUNDING RACCOONS 34 UNDERRATED PREY 36 BIKES AND BOWS 46 DOG DAYS
38
PERSISTENCE PAYS Harvesting turkeys requires different techniques
42
THRILL OF THE HUNT In pursuit of ducks
DEPARTMENTS 10 OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS 12 CONSERVATION 16 GAME & FLAME 20 ARKANSAS OUTOOOR ARTISANS 48 TOP GUIDES 50 OUT & ABOUT 4 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
On the cover: Every year, hunters like Chuck Lock, Preston Nicholson and Jeff DeVazier experience some of the best waterfowl hunting in the Mississippi Flyway. Photo by Nancy Nolan.
OUR FAVORITE ROOM Has no walls. At First Security, we’re thankful that the Natural State is our home state. That’s why we created an entire website devoted to Arkansas stories, insight and tips, including great information on the great outdoors. Ready to find out s’more? Visit OnlyInArk.com today.
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ARKANSASWILD.COM | 5
ARKANSAS WILD ARKANSASWILD.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/ARKANSASWILD REBEKAH LAWRENCE Publisher rebekah@arktimes.com ELIZABETH HAMAN Associate Publisher elizabeth@arktimes.com MANDY KEENER Creative Director mandy@arktimes.com MICHAEL ROBERTS Editor michael@arktimes.com KEVIN WALTERMIRE Art Director kevin@arktimes.com ADVERTISING LESA THOMAS Senior Account Executive lesa@arktimes.com
(photos and map) (hotline number) 479-621-1117 (rogers logos and web address) (find us on Facebook logo)
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201 E. MARKHAM ST., SUITE 200 LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 501-375-2985 All Contents © 2016 Arkansas Wild
CONTRIBUTORS
NANCY NOLAN was born a city girl. And has spent most of her 30 year photography career living in downtown lofts. Although one would not describe her as outdoorsy she wants people to know she has a great respect for the land and the creatures that inhabit it. Especially snakes.
CLAY NEWCOMB is an outdoor writer, videographer and publisher from West Fork. A ninth generation Arkansan, Clay grew up hunting the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains. Aside from his devotion to wild places, Clay’s passion is for his wife and four children and getting them outdoors.
ARKANSAS PREMIER FLY FISHING OUTFITTER AND GUIDE SERVICE. 12305 CHENAL PARKWAY SUITE B. Little Rock, AR 72211 (501) 225-6504 659 WILBURN ROAD Heber Springs, AR 72543 (501) 362-FLYS (3597)
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KAT ROBINSON is an Arkansas travel writer and foodways enthusiast living in Little Rock. The author of three travel dining guides (including Arkansas Pie: A Delicious Slice of the Natural State), the veteran journalist spends her time exploring highways and byways wherever she may wander.
MARY CAROLINE NOLAN is the twenty-two year old Digital Media Director at Mack’s Prairie Wings in Stuttgart, Arkansas where she focuses on everything branding, marketing and graphic design.
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SPENCER GRIFFITH’s love of the
PHILIP THOMAS is the owner and
ZOË ROM is a post-punk vegetarian with
DUSTIN JONES’ zeal for the outdoors goes
outdoors started at a young age. From the first hookset that yielded a catch, he was drawn to the outdoors. Most weekends you can find him greeting the sun from a duck blind, paddling or trying out a new campsite.
a knack for misadventure. When she's not running, she's climbing, and when she's not climbing, she's cooking or eating. Writer, podcaster and avid gardener, she starts every day with a cup of strong coffee and a good story.
operator of Nova Studio, a photography, video and graphic design company located in northwest Arkansas.
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back as far as he can remember. His parents gave him a camera when he was 13 and always encouraged him to explore. Nowadays, as a professional cinematographer, he is able to unite both of his passions: outdoor adventures and visual storytelling. ARKANSASWILD.COM | 7
FROM THE EDITOR
A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES
“The thrill of tracking and harvesting prey is an adrenaline rush like no other, but it’s the memories that remain long after that hunt is over.”
I must have been about 10 years old when my dad loaded up a couple of five-gallon buckets and a pair of shotguns into the truck, then drove the two of us out to a muddy field near the Ouachita River outside Arkadelphia (the community’s name is Joan, for those of you familiar with the area). We probably didn’t kill but a handful of birds that day, but I can remember being so impressed with pop’s ability to look at a speck speeding across the sky and know if it was an incoming dove or not. Nearly three decades later, it still brings a smile to my face. From my mother, I learned all about how to make venison—an overnight soak in buttermilk, followed by a pounding with an old glass Coca-Cola bottle (I didn’t know what a tenderizer mallet was until I was an adult), then battered and fried to crispy perfection. It’s a technique I still use to this very day (Coke bottle and all), and every bite reminds me of home. That’s what hunting and the sporting life mean to so many in Arkansas. Certainly, the thrill of tracking and harvesting prey is an adrenaline rush like no other, but it’s the memories that remain long after that hunt is over. We’ve got so many great stories for you in this issue. Outdoor expert Clay Newcomb shares with us stories about everything from tracking raccoons by night to the resurgence of bears in Arkansas. Contributor Spencer Griffith tells us what it means to love duck season—and introduces us to his dog, Jack. Travel writer Kat Robinson fills us in on a great duck hunting resort, and I bid a fond farewell to Arkansas Wild intern Zoë Rom by publishing her excellent piece on Chronic Wasting Disease in deer and elk. I also had a couple of great adventures with photographers Philip Thomas and Dustin Jones meeting some great Arkansans at Gaston’s Resort in Lakeview and Waco Boats in North Little Rock. Want to get more involved in the outdoors? Maybe do a little fishing? Of course you do, and there’s no better opportunity than the Greers Ferry Bass Challenge on October 8 and 9. They’ve got a worldclass facility in the Devil’s Fork Tournament Center, so expect to fish in style. For more information, visit greersferry.com. And tell them Arkansas Wild sent you!
Michael Roberts Editor, Arkansas Wild @ArkansasWildMag Arkansas Times Publishing
8 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 9
OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS
ON THE HUNT
Necessary gear from hunter, conservationist and outdoor mentor Freddie Black BY ZOË ROM
Ask Freddie Black how long he’s been hunting, and his answer is “since I was old enough to hold a gun.” In 2002, he was appointed commissioner of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission by Governor Mike Huckabee, vowing to protect the game that he enjoyed hunting. Freddie currently serves as chairman of the Arkansas Region for Simmons Bank and holds an annual dove hunt each year. “All of us hunters need to make sure we pass along our heritage, whether to our children or as a mentor to other children,” he says.
1
“I got my little Gerber knife from my grandmother years ago. I never go without it.” — Freddie Black
y y get read und Rodne o h is h d n ck a Freddie Bla the woods. in y a d a r fo
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10 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
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1. THE KNIFE
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CARRYING SUSTENANCE
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When you’re going to be outside all day, it is important to pack snacks. Crackers provide easy carbs that are light and packable, and pair great with smoked summer sausage for heavy-duty, nutritionally dense sustenance. And of course, you’ll need some water to wash it all down, which is where Nalgene comes into play. Durable, easy to drink from and dishwasher-safe, the 32 oz. version is the perfect size for hunters. $10.99 nalgene.com
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Things can get messy in the field, and when you’re up to your wrists in the day’s kill, protection is key. “I make sure I always have rubber gloves with me,” says Freddie. A basic pair of gloves like these from Hunters Specialties can make field dressing a snap. $11.99 hunterspec.com
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Freddie uses a Winchester Model 70 .300 H&H to hunt, an elegant weapon with a traditional construction that is both simple and effective. Known as the “rifleman’s rifle,” this Winchester model is a timeless classic. “It’s an older rifle, but it’s dependable,” says Freddie, and such dependability is priceless. Various prices. winchesterguns.com
BE FARSIGHTED 5.
Spotting prey is the first step in getting the kill, making a great pair of binoculars vital for Freddie Black. These Diamondback binoculars from Vortex Optics not only provide a great, clear image, they have a non-slip coating to ensure a solid grip in any outdoor situation. $319 vortexoptics.com Be sure to check out your local outfitter for any of these products.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM
CONSERVATION
The first confirmed case of Chronic Wasting Disease in Arkansas was in an elk from the Ponca herd near Pruitt.
HEALTH OF THE HERD Deadly illness confirmed in Arkansas deer and elk BY ZOË ROM On October 6, 2015, a single shot echoed through the woods near the Ozark town of Pruitt, taking down a small elk cow as part of a routine hunt. It was young, only twoand-a-half years old, and while seemingly healthy at first, further inspection uncovered symptoms of illness. Protruding ribs strained against the elk’s thick hide, and abnormally thick saliva hung from its chin. The animal’s starved appearance, coupled with the fact that it had been separated from the herd and wandering in circles when harvested, made this kill very unusual. Several months later, on February 23, 2016, lab results would confirm a long-standing fear held by hunters 12 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
and conservationists alike: Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) had arrived in Arkansas. A neurodegenerative disease that affects the cervids (mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose and Rocky Mountain elk), CWD is different than the bacterial and viral infections familiar to most people. Instead, the disease is caused by abnormally shaped proteins known as “prions,” which cause the brain of an infected animal to develop porous, sponge-like lesions which lead to a deterioration in neurological f unction. Similar to Bovine Spong iform Encephalopathy (commonly known as “mad cow disease”), CWD is unique in that it occurs only in free-ranging species rather
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Elk infected with CWD forgo normal behaviors such as eating or sparring for mates.
than domesticated animals. Much is still unknown about this relatively new degenerative disease, including its origins. CWD has been a known clinical syndrome for only 30 years, though recent research suggests it may be at least a decade older. It may have arisen due to an overlap of grazing areas between wild cervid populations and sheep infected with scrapie, a similar neurodegenerative disease. The disease has proven difficult to fight, spreading through direct animal-to-animal contact as well as through saliva, feces and other bodily secretions. In addition, CWD prions can persist in soil long after herds have moved on, putting other deer and elk that graze in the contaminated area at risk of infection. In Arkansas, the Ponca elk herd is dense and has a finite grazing area, a situation of particular concern to scientists. It can be difficult to track the spread of CWD, as its symptoms are often subtle. Detection in animals is only possible through removing part of the animal’s brain to check for the characteristic lesions. There are, however, several signs that may indicate an animal is infected. Weight loss from lack of appetite (the “wasting” effect) in elk and deer is the most common visible symptom. Affected animals also demonstrate uncharacteristic behavior, such as separating from the herd and walking in circles. Loss of coordination and head tremors, along with excessive urination and salivation, are also common. The disease is terminal: Once an animal is infected, death is inevitable, with no vaccine or treatment currently available. Despite the bleak nature of the disease, Trey Reid with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) is reassuring. He acknowledges that while the presence of CWD in Arkansas isn’t good news, there have only been around 90 confirmed cases in deer and five in elk, mostly contained in Boone and Newton counties—a state of affairs that in no way heralds the end of the state’s robust elk and deer herds. “Chronic Wasting Disease is being managed in Arkansas based on the best management practices we’ve learned from other states,” says Trey. “Arkansas is the 24th state where CWD has been detected, so we’ve learned from the successes and setbacks of other states. Arkansas has made great strides in deer management, and we’re going to do everything in our power to manage the state’s deer herd in a way that will benefit the state’s hunters and other wildlife enthusiasts.” The AGFC urges anyone who believes they’ve seen an animal with CWD to report it by calling 800-482-9262 or emailing cwdinfo@agfc.ar.gov. Recommended handling precautions are available at agfc.com. 14 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
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GAME & FLAME
Gaston’s Restaurant Means Trout Classic resort thrives under new chef
PHOTOS BY NOVO STUDIO
BY MICHAEL ROBERTS
Learn how to recreate this traditional rainbow trout dish from Gaston’s Resort on page 18. 16 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
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I
s there a dining room in Arkansas more eclectic than that of Gaston’s Resor t in La kev iew? A ntique bicycles, outboa rd motors and vintage signs hang from the walls and ceiling, each piece collected by Al Gaston, founder of the resort, and his son, Jim, who turned this scenic resort on the White River into an Arkansas legend. The airy space is lined with tall windows overlooking the White River, an unmatched view that has become part of the Gaston’s mystique. These days, Gaston’s thrives under the leadership of third-generation owner Clint Gaston, who at only 28 years old has thrown himself into maintaining his father and grandfather’s commitment to outdoor lovers of all ages and experience levels as well as the locals who call Lakeview home. The restaurant is a vital part of that experience, and with the announcement of new chef Rick Gollinger in March of this year, Clint feels confident that the food coming out of Gaston’s kitchen is just as wonderful as the view. “We wanted to reconnect with our locals, plus give those who drive or fly in to the resort a great place to dine,” says Clint. Lunch service was just gearing up when photographer Philip Thomas and I arrived at the restaurant, and the staff was busy preparing fresh fish, thick steaks and various sides, all narrated by the sort of friendly banter common to well-run kitchens. Servers and hostesses busied themselves with making sure the white tablecloths were in place, greeting early diners with big smiles and a ready “Hey, y’all!” When t he new chef a rrived, it wa s immediately clear how proud he was of his new home at Gaston’s Restaurant. “I grew up around here,” says Rick. “I left to go to culinary school and work in the cities, but I knew I’d come back. I’ve had my eye on this place for a while.” For Rick, the restaurant is not only a place where people staying at the resort can grab a bite, it’s a special occasion restaurant for locals. As Rick set up to prepare us something t a s t y for lu nch , h i s qu ick , ef f ic ient movements told the tale of his experience in the kitchen. The skills he exhibited would be at home at any fine dining restaurant in Little Rock or Memphis, and yet the smile on his face was proof that there was no place he’d rather be. It’s clear he’s out to transform Gaston’s Restaurant into a destination all on its own, the sort of place people will leave the main highway and seek out for superior food and service. “We’ve even had people fly up from Little Rock for brunch,” Rick says, referring to the resort’s recently revamped 3,200-foot airstrip.
18 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
Facing page: Chef Rick Gollinger uses his considerable skills to make sure Gaston’s Restaurant appeals to resort guests and locals alike. From top to bottom: The dining room at Gaston’s is filled with antique bicycles, outboard motors and other ephemera, framing a beautiful view of the White River. Almonds, butter and lemon juice make this trout amandine delicious (for another way to prepare trout with crab meat and scallions, see arkansaswild.com). The chef sears the trout to medium, then serves with a hot, fresh amandine sauce.
Because Gaston’s is known as a premier destination for trout fishing, we’ve asked Rick to share the resort’s recipe for the restaurant’s signature Trout Amandine, a classic dish that pairs a light, flaky rainbow trout fillet with a bright sauce of lemon, butter and almonds. It’s the sort of dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, yet elegant to serve. And while it may be a snap to recreate a taste of Gaston’s, there’s nothing like getting a seat at the table and a hook in the water to experience the place for yourself.
Rainbow Trout Amandine (serves 4)
Ingredients: 4 rainbow trout fillets salt and pepper 2 cups flour 4 tablespoons butter, divided use 1/4 cup white wine 6 tablespoons sliced almonds 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Directions: Sprinkle trout fillets with salt and pepper. Dredge in the flour until both sides are well coated; shake off excess flour. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet on medium-high heat, then place fillets in the pan skin side up. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove fish from pan and keep warm. In the same pan, melt the remaining butter. Add the white wine, almonds and lemon juice and sauté until heated through. Spoon sauce and almonds over the trout and serve. ARKANSASWILD.COM | 19
PHOTO BY NICK WENGER
An Edge duck boat from Waco Manufacturing speeds down the Arkansas River. Each handmade boat can be customized in a number of ways, such as this model’s custom-painted interior, designed to mimic an intricate and detailed wood grain pattern.
No matter how you like to hit the water, Waco Boats has you covered BY MICHAEL ROBERTS
“
M
y dad was kind of the opposite of most dads,” says Waco Manufacturing president Tom Cox of his father, Waco co-founder Charles Cox. “He turned the company over to me when I was 21, and I’ve run it now for 33 years. He trusted me.” Given the bustle of activity in the factory as Waco employees cut and weld metal into the company’s line of pontoon boats, flatbottom boats and custom duck boats, that trust was obviously well-placed. Waco has been building boats in North Little Rock’s Levy neighborhood since 1960, and the company takes pride in the handcrafted excellence of its products. “Historically, we’ve primarily been a pontoon boat company,” says B.J. Aguilar, Waco’s general manager. “But a few years ago we started building the Edge line of duck boats. There are lots of young guys out there who like to go fast, and these boats can be customized just how they want them.” These days, the shop floor at Waco holds everything from flat-bottom jon boats
20 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
to those fast duck boats—and of course there are still a number of shiny new pontoon boats looming over everything like a study in gleaming metal and paint. “Building a boat is an art,” continues B.J. “You learn how to make things work and how to make things fit.” To that end, while the main hull of Waco’s Edge duck boats is cut by machine, the interior ribs, decking and fittings are all cut and placed by hand. This handmade approach also extends to the company’s high-end Paradise and mid-range Tropical line of Aloha pontoon boats—and not just for the metal parts. “About a year ago, we developed our own in-house upholstery department so we could better control the quality of the seating in our boats,” says B.J. “Other than a few gauges and things like that, we do everything right here.” Even though each boat is subject to such attention to craft and detail, Waco still turns out around 700 boats a year, with a typical lead time of two to four weeks per boat. These boats are sold through dealers
Left to right: Leslie Rowe, Lee Colwell, Jay B. Gadberry
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Clockwise from top: Fitting parts by hand ensures that each boat is watertight and up to Waco’s exacting standards. Ribs are bent and placed by hand to create one of the strongest hulls around. Waco’s Edge duck boat interior decking and fittings are cut by hand.
across the southeast like Arkansas’ own Mark Martin Powersports in Batesville, White River Outdoors in Augusta, Greg Orr Marine in Texarkana, Cavanaugh Marine in Pocahontas and H20 Sportz in Sherwood. In addition, Waco’s boats can be found as far afield as Australia, with Aussie importer Kim Empson praising the company’s allwelded design and durability. “Alohas aren’t the cheapest pontoon boat on the market,” says Kim, “but they definitely are the best built and most durable.” In a world where prefabricated, inferior-quality products are all-too-often the norm, the hands-on approach to artisan manufacturing employed by Waco is both 22 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
refreshing to see and extremely admirable. Consumers might not ever think about the hand-bent and shaped railings that line each Aloha pontoon boat, nor the lovingly designed deck gates or hand-applied logos—but they reap the benefits of such excellent work every time they take these boats out on the water. No matter your needs, from leisurely cruises out on Arkansas’ many excellent lakes to speeding upstream to a prime duck hunting spot, Waco has a boat to suit you. The family owned business has been doing it in Arkansas for nearly six decades, and that sort of longevity is a testament to the quality, skill and passion with which each boat is constructed.
Visit any region in Arkansas and you’ll find yourself in an outdoor sportsman’s seventh heaven. But if you’re one of those outdoor lovers who wants it all and will settle for nothing less, the Arkansas Delta was created for you. From bicycling and motorcycling to walking and running, you can do it here. If it walks or flies, you can hunt it here; if it swims, you can fish for it here in the Arkansas Delta. And you’ll do it all in gorgeous scenic beauty, from our lush open countryside to our fragrant forests to our glittering waters. Lovers of the outdoors, visit us for your next adventure and enjoy our legendary Arkansas Delta welcome.
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No place in the world boasts better peafowl and waterfowl hunting than eastern Arkansas, so when hunters like Chuck Lock, Preston Nicholson and Jeff DeVazier get geared up and ready to hunt, they head to the Stuttgart area for a unique experience.
SPORTSMEN OF ALL STRIPES ARE GEARING UP FOR ANOTHER YEAR OF HUNTING AND ENJOYING THE OUTDOOR BOUNTY OF ARKANSAS. THAT MEANS IT’S TIME TO SHARE TIPS, ADVICE—AND A HEALTHY DOSE OF STORIES ABOUT THE PURSUIT AND HARVEST OF THE ABUNDANT INDIGENOUS WILDLIFE AVAILABLE TO HUNTERS IN THE STATE. FROM SQUIRRELS TO BEARS, ARKANSAS HAS A SEASON FOR YOU. PHOTO BY NANCY NOLAN
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 25
A R K A N S A S
Sportsmen are defined by the lands they hunt
A
s summer’s heat bows Elsewhere in the state, deer hunters down to the crisp, sharp scout stand locations, get camps air of autumn, outdoor cleaned up and ready and share stories lovers all around Arkansas about those big bucks that got away. t rade water skis for waders a nd The first day of deer season is such a big swimsuits for hunter orange. Rifles deal that some Arkansas schools take a a nd mu zzleloaders a re clea ned holiday, knowing that most of their kids and oiled, while tales of seasons are going to be out before dawn chasing past are brushed off and lovingly af ter whitetails. A nd of course, embellished. Hunters all around everyone has a favorite piece of gear, t he Nat ura l State opinion about firearms reacquaint themselves or the perfect hunting with their favorite technique—and the s p o t s — or d i s c o ve r debates about who is ent irely new places right and wrong are full of abundant prey. nearly as ubiquitous as The U.S. Arkansas may not be bright orange clothing. Census Bureau a large state in terms There was a time of landmass, but our when hunting was In 2011, Arkansas various regions are a means of survival, boasted 363,000 truly greater than the and there are certainly hunters who sum of their parts. still hunters in the The Mississippi Nat u ra l St ate who spent, on Flyway may stretch derive much of their average, 30 days f rom t he Gulf of yearly protein from a year hunting. Mexico all the way animals they kill. But into Canada, but if for countless others, it were to have a n hunting is a way to epicenter, Stuttgart connect t he most would be it. Nearly half primal instincts we of North American possess as humans waterfowl and shorebirds travel with our modern culture. Living along this corridor every year, and the sporting life in a state like people from all over the world flock Arkansas bridges the gap between to the self-proclaimed Duck Capital generations, strengthens the bonds of the World to har vest them. of friendship and reconnects each And when they get there, outdoor of us to the land we call home. out f it t e r s l i ke M a c k ’s P r a i r ie It’s a way of life as unique as the Wings stand ready to supply all the bends of our rivers and swell of our hunting supplies, duck calls, guns, mountains and hills, and it’s one we ammunition, decoys and clothing celebrate as a vital and thriving part anyone might ever want. of Arkansas’ culture.
26 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
BUCK Overall: Jacob Ayecock Typical, Modern gun: 195 2/8” (2015) Bow: Wayne Lindsey, Typical, Bow: 177 7/8” (1998) Muzzleloader: Charles Marcum, Typical, Muzzleloader: 171 7/8” (1994) Crossbow: Greg McKnight, Typical, Crossbow: 174 1/8” (2007)
BEAR Crossbow: Donald R. Patterson, Searcy County: 21 8/16” (2007) Bow: Don Barnett, Saline County: 21 7/16” (2008)
by ael Michs Robert
PHOTO BY NANCY NOLAN
A VITAL WAY OF LIFE
STATE RECORDS
Gunning for birds on the wing requires a good eye and an accurate weapon. Most hunters develop a fierce loyalty to a particular firearm, and this sleek Browning 125th Anniversary Edition 12-gauge (one of only 15 in the world) certainly inspires it. Courtesy of Mack’s Prairie Wings in Stuttgart.
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 27
Scoring white-tailed deer has become a popular pastime among Arkansas hunters. Here, hunter Ronnie Cartwright of Greenland checks the antlers on a 140-inch white-tailed buck. CLAY’S PICKS The Arkansas Delta along the Mississippi River. Washington and Madison Counties in northwest Arkansas.
IN PURSUIT OF WHITE-TAILED DEER I
t’s fall. Powerful premonitions of future hunting grown-up treasure hunt every winter. White-tailed deer success have, by now, taken over your subconscious antlers have a range of phenotype diversity that is unique thoughts in moments that don’t demand full among all the deer species. Scoring whitetails is becoming mental acuity. Slight increases in heart rate, increasingly popular in Arkansas as the headgear of our though subtle, are detected each time you glance across bucks seems to be increasing. In 2015, the longstanding open fields into the dark timber beyond. While driving typical white-tailed deer state record (held for 40 years by to work, it’s now become a challenge to keep your eyes Thomas Sparks) was broken by Jacob Ayecock in Desha on the road. Your pupils ramble and rove, following the County with a buck that scored 195 2/8 inches. This is curves of the timber while looking for flashes of brown a big deal. fur and ivory antler. White-tailed The good news of Arkansas deer deer season is upon us in Arkansas. hunting has been tainted with It’s hard to describe our fascination the discovery of Chronic Wasting a nd love of t hese deer. Much of Disease in the state. However, it’s Deer Harvested 2015-2016 it ha s to do w it h t he a n i ma l’s not all gloom and doom. Our deer Antlered: 90,666: Button biological success and widespread have likely had the disease for a distribution. In ever y corner of long time. The north central Ozarks Buck: 14,148: Does: 108,124 our state you’ll find excellent hunting (where the disease has been found) and incomparable public hunting still has strong white-tailed deer opportunities. The c u lt u ra l pa late numbers despite the disease. of Arkansans, additionally, is hooked With the abundant rainfall we’ve on t he delicious lean protein provided by organic, freehad this last summer, I predict that some big bucks range venison. Once the meat of “poor folks,” venison w i l l b e k i l le d i n t he 2016 -17 s ea s on . A rcher y is now the envy of the masses. Fueled by the trend of deer season starts September 24 and runs through eating healthier meat, more and more people, even February. Modern gun season starts on November 12 urban non-hunters, are looking to the ancient ways of statewide and runs through December 4 in most regions. hunters with an envious and hungry gaze. We’ve now become the cool kids on the front edge of a trend that we created but never left. We’re also fascinated with white-tailed deer antlers. Each buck is unique. Every year they increase in size, and when their antlers drop off, hunters embark on a
by Clay Newcomb
28 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
PHOTO BY CLAY NEWCOMB
Arkansas deer are bigger and better than ever
Experience ...
B A G
A TROPHY BUCK Don’t miss opening day — be prepared! Here’s when you can go after a monster white-tailed deer, plus the method you’ll need to use to bring it down.
Your next adventure is right in Your own backYard.
Deer Season Opening Dates Archery: Saturday, September 24. Long, recurve and compound bows must have at least a 35-pound pull. Crossbows must have at least a 125-pound pull. All arrowheads must be at least 7/8” wide. Muzzleloader: Saturday, October VisitFairfieldBay.com 15. Muzzleloading rifles must have a barrel of at least 18 inches and be at least M.40 caliber. ARINA • Golf • fIshING • TeN N Is • TRAIls • AN N uAl eveN Ts • 501.884.6030 Handguns must have a barrel of september 17, 2016 Races for all ages: SUPs • Kayaks • Canoes at least 9 inches and be atPaid least for with a combination of state and Greers Ferry Lake/Little Red River Tourism Association funds. Go to visitgreersferrylake.org for our free area guide. .45 caliber. AT THE
Thomas Cauley
Modern Gun: Saturday, November 12. All modern guns are allowed with only a few exceptions: .410 shotguns with buckshot, air guns, centerfire rifles or pistols smaller than .22 caliber and handguns with barrels shorter than 4 inches are all forbidden. Once you’ve bagged that buck, remember that deer tags should be filled out immediately — before you move the animal. When your tag is completed, fasten it to the deer’s ear or antler, then be sure to check it with Arkansas Game and Fish with their smartphone app (available from Google Play and iTunes), their website-based system (see agfc.com for details) or by calling 866-305-0808.
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Paid in part by Greers Ferry A & P Commission. Paid for with a combination of state and Greers Ferry Lake/Little Red River Tourism Association funds. Go to visitgreersferrylake.org for our free area guide. ARKANSASWILD.COM | 29
PHOTO BY CLAY NEWCOMB
Author Clay Newcomb and his son, Bear, stand over a bear harvested in Polk County. Estimated to weigh over 500 pounds, the “color phase” bear was officially scored at 19 11/16”. 30 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
A RETURN TO THE BEAR STATE
The growing bear population means new opportunities for hunters
I
t’s hard to celebrate something if you don’t the Mississippi River. In each case, these bears understand why it needs to be celebrated. emigrated out of Arkansas—and, might I add, this But the return of a thriving bear population expansion has coincided with increased hunting. to Arkansas is big news for anyone who cares Arkansas hunters have killed over 400 bears about our state’s reputation. How can a place be since 2001 when the Arkansas Game and Fish known as “wild” if it doesn’t have bears? Bears are Commission first allowed baiting on private lands. the icon of American wilderness and adventure Using very conservative figures, an estimated hunting. The presence of big omnivores indicates 5,000 bears roam our state. a thriving and healthy ecosystem. We’ve got some big bears in Arkansas. It’s not The wild places of Arkansas gained national uncommon for hunters to harvest bears that recognition in the 1800s because of the tales weigh over 500 pounds, with some bears topping of bear hunters, effectively branding our state. 600 pounds. Perhaps one of the most intriguing These stories embedded into aspects of Arkansas bears is the American culture ideas the genetic variation known about Arkansas that have as “color phase.” Not all withstood the test of time. Arkansas black bears are An Estimated 5,000 In 1854, Thomas Thorpe black—many are chocolate bears roam our state wrote an article titled “The brown or reddish cinnamon. Big Bear of Arkansas” which In t h e We s t e r n U n i t e d was published in multiple States this is common, but national papers, including to be this far east and still the “Spirit of The Times” published in New York have a high percentage of color phase is unique. City. In the story, a colorful Arkansas native Bears that live in open terrain are more likely to speaks of giant bears and epic bear hunts in the be color phase (like the Western U.S.), while bears Delta. The city folk back East were fascinated living in dense forest are usually all black (like the with our state. Eastern U.S.). Arkansas bears are between 10 and Today, black bears are increasing in number 20 percent color phase. and geographical range in Arkansas. Once limited With abundant summer rainfall and good hard to the Ouachitas, Ozarks and lower White River and soft mast crops throughout most of the state, drainage, bears are expanding in every direction bear hunting could be tough in 2016-17. When from these hubs. Southern Missouri now has a food is readily available, bears are spread out breeding population of bears. Oklahoma now and don’t respond well to bait. Don’t let that keep has a huntable and rapidly growing population you out of the bear woods, but hunting, as usual, of bruins. Northern Louisiana has taken black might be a challenge. Bear season starts in Zone bears off the endangered species list. Mississippi 1 and 2 on Sept. 24 and runs through November is studying its growing bear population along (unless the Zone 1 quota is met).
by Clay omb Newc
CLAY’S PICKS Arkansas’ mountain regions are teeming with bears, both in the Ouachita National Forest and Madison, Crawford, Franklin, Pope and Newton Counties in the Ozarks.
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 31
HOUNDING RACCOONS
There’s no other prey quite like an Arkansas raccoon
Author and avid hunter Clay Newcomb poses with his coonhound, Fern, and a freshly harvested Arkansas raccoon.
H
unting with hounds is massively misunderstood, registered Plott Hound female. To be honest, I wasn’t sometimes even by those who do it. The bawl expecting much from the dog in terms of raccoon hunting. mouth of a hound, refined by generations of However, as the hunting season progressed, the dog began breeding the best with the best, is an unmistakable to progress significantly. By the end of the 2015-16 season, privilege to hear. At one time a “raccoonhound” was not she had treed over 70 raccoons, most of them by herself. simply recreational. When a racraccoon hide was worth The beauty of raccoon hunting for me was that I was able to more than a day’s work, a hound was an income-producing easily include my young family. I rarely went raccoon hunting necessity for many Arkansas families. last winter without taking one of my This effectively embedded a love of kids. It didn’t take them long to begin hounds into our rural culture. to love hounds the way I did. There is Growing up in the picturesque something adventurous about being Raccoon Season Ouachita Mountains of Polk County in the woods at night chasing a hound, near Mena, I was introduced to and raccoon hunting is a great way to July 1-March 31. raccoon hunting at an early age. In introduce kids into the outdoors and There is no limit. the way one might develop a palate hunting. There’s no need for long for fine cuisine, I cultivated a deep sits without moving—raccoon hunting appreciation for hound hunting. is a social sport designed for talking This is something that doesn’t come and human interaction. Additionally, from casual and distant observation, but rather from being raccoon populations are very good in Arkansas and need to there. For me, it was birthed on the rim of an Arkansas be controlled by hunting. Raccoons are ground nest predators ridgetop with the glow of a waxing crescent moon overhead, a (turkeys and quail), poultry killers, bird feed raiders and a bawl-mouthed hound echoing below me on the trail of a clever general nuisance. ringtail—this is where I learned to appreciate hound hunting. As a teenager, I hunted hard and often between the ages of 14 and 19. However, adulthood came and took away my time for hounds. Like an old friend returning unexpectedly, in June 2015 our family ended up with a 7-month-old
by Clay Newcomb
32 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
PHOTO BY CLAY NEWCOMB
CLAY’S PICKS The Delta and farming areas of eastern Arkansas are prime raccoon territory, but the wily creatures can also be found in the Ozark and Ouachita regions.
K I D S
ON THE HUNT If you’ve ever been curious about what it takes to get involved with hunting with your kids, here are a few guidelines: •
Any youth under the age of 16 can hunt without an Arkansas hunter education card as long as they are under the direct supervision of an adult of at least 21. For people over the age of 16 who were born after January 1, 1969, a valid hunter education card is required.
•
There are three options available to get a hunter education card: a 10-hour, instructor-led class; an online self-study course; or a selfstudy course available on compact disc. In each case, students must pass a test in order to qualify for a card.
The state also holds special youth seasons throughout the year, giving young people a chance to get out into the wilderness without the pressures of a fully open season. Here are some of the state’s upcoming youth hunt dates:
Northwest Arkansas
Naturally Fun
and trails, ntains, lakes, rivers ou m us io or gl ith W beginning beauty is just the our scenic natural
Kings River
BELLA VISTA | BENTONVILLE | EUREKA SPRINGS | FAYETTEVILLE HOLIDAY ISLAND | HUNTSVILLE | ROGERS | SILOAM SPRINGS | SPRINGDALE Devil’s Den State Park
Beaver Lake
Bear: Nov. 5-6 Deer: Nov. 5-6 and Jan. 7-8 Elk: Oct. 1-2 and Oct. 21-Nov. 4 (by drawn permit only) Bobcat: During youth turkey hunts, only youths may harvest bobcats Coyote: During youth turkey hunts, only youths may harvest coyotes Turkey: April 8-9 Duck, Coot and Merganser: Dec. 3 and Feb. 4 For more information on hunter education classes and hunting zones, visit agfc.com.
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H U N T T H AT ? There’s more to Arkansas’ hunting scene than just deer, turkeys and ducks. Want to hunt something new? Here’s a selected list of what’s available, and when it’s huntable: Alligator: September 16-19 and September 23-26 Crow: September 1-February 19 (Thursday-Monday only) Common Snipe: November 1February 15 Woodcock: November 5December 19 Bullfrogs: April 15-December 31 Quail: November 1-February 5 Rabbit: September 1-February 28 Squirrel: May 15-February 28 Dove: September 3-October 23; December 8-January 15 Purple Gallinule: September 1-November 9 Common Moorhen: September 1-November 9 Virginia Rail: September 10-November 18 Elk: October 3-7, October 31-November 4 Beaver: September 1-March 31 Bobcat: September 1-February 28 Coyote: July 1-February 28
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BIKES AND BOWS F
or Fayetteville deer and turkey hunter Richie Lamb, using a mountain bike to navigate the old logging roads and forest paths ubiquitous to the region just makes good sense. “I mainly hunt on land where there are roads but no ATVs are allowed,” he says. “And even if motor vehicles were allowed, the bike is still an easier and more accessible option.” Richie started using his bike to scout for hunting spots about three years ago, and when he discovered how quickly and quietly he could move through the woods on two wheels, he incorporated the bike into his main hunts. “I hunt about 100 days a year, and using the bike has allowed me to cover more ground very efficiently. It takes less effort and time to get where I’m going, which leaves me with more hours to actually hunt.” In addition to the speed factor of biking versus being on foot, Richie discovered another added bonus: less time moving from spot to spot means less sweat, which not only leaves him refreshed and alert for tracking game, it also cuts down on sweat, meaning less scent to alert prey to his presence. “It’s especially useful for hunting turkeys,” says Richie. “With deer hunting, you’re often in the same spot for hours, but with turkeys, a bike lets me go to where the birds are moving.” And unlike vehicles with loud motors, the relative silence of biking allows his ears to remain attuned to the sounds of the woods, making it easier to locate the notoriously elusive birds. Transporting rif les, bows or other hunting equipment is something that many hunters might consider an obstacle when using a mountain bike for hunting, but potential bike hunters shouldn’t let
that stop them, Richie says. “Cogburn Outdoors is a company that builds racks for bikes for all your hunting equipment. They even build bikes designed specifically for hunters, so you can either modify your existing bike or start off with a complete kit.” But what’s a hunter to do to get harvested animals out of the woods? Richie admits this can be an issue, especially when it comes to larger animals like deer. “With turkeys, it’s not as much of a problem. I’m looking into buying a bike trailer for deer, which will make things easier. The other option is to simply field dress the animal and take back the meat, head and hide. That cuts down on what you have to carry. For now, I have a push cart that I keep on my truck. I get the deer back to the road, walk to get the cart, then push everything back to where I parked.” As cycling continues to grow in popularity here in Arkansas, expect to see more people like Richie Lamb incorporate their bikes into new areas like hunting. From a conservation standpoint, bicycles make a far smaller impact on the environment than ATVs, keeping shared-use lands in better shape for everyone in the Natural State who is interested in enjoying our outdoor bounty. We live in a time where bikes can be custom-designed to suit nearly any need—which means there’s something on two wheels for you, no matter what game you’re chasing. For more information about Cogburn hunting bikes, visit cogburnoutdoors.com, or visit Arkansas’ only official Cogburn dealer, Chainwheel in Little Rock at chainwheel.com.
by ael Michs Robert 36 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
PHOTO BY STEPHEN IRONSIDE
Mountain bikes grow in popularity for hunter transport
Richie Lamb goes after both deer and turkeys using his mountain bike near Lake Wedington in Fayetteville.
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 37
PERSISTENCE PAYS S
itting for long periods under a big tree in the woods gives a man ample time to think. While waiting for a big gobbler to show up last spring, I wandered down memory lane, recalling some 30-plus years as a turkey hunter. Back in 1983, when I first took up the pursuit of the wily birds, there weren’t nearly as many turkeys or hunters as we see today. With no practical experience of my own or previous background with turkey hunting, there proved to be a great deal of trial and error to the learning curve. In an effort to improve my skills, I spent time with older gentlemen in the community, seeking their advice on where and how to actually bag my first bird. Best bit of advice they gave me? Keep the calling to a minimum, and once a bird answers you, put the caller down, stay put and wait for him to come looking for the hen he thinks he responded to. That old-school method requires a good deal of patience, more akin to traditional deer hunting than the excitement expected of a big tom coming in hot and ready, gobbling, drumming and strutting all the way. It proved effective, though, and I finally bagged my first bird after a few unsuccessful seasons of hard hunting. A dozen years passed with a like number of gobblers added to my tally. It was about that time I met up with one Vernon Burford. Vern had bagged his share of south Arkansas gobblers, going about it with an entirely different method from the one I’d learned years earlier. I looked forward to the opportunity to spend time in the woods with a legend, learning his way of doing things. I paid close attention and came away with an alternate brand of hunting. Accordingly, my turkey harvesting numbers went up exponentially after just one season following Burford around the sticks. Vern’s idea was to aggressively call to and move quickly on a bird once it gobbles. He’d go at full gallop to get to a spot to lure the tom out of the roost tree, then make quick work of it. He was a pretty fair hand at getting into position before the gobbler arrived. Of course, knowing the lay of the land is of utmost importance when hunting this way. It’s kind of hard to beat the bird to his intended destination and know where that might be if you’re not mighty familiar with the terrain required to cross to get there first.
38 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
Another 50 turkey beards have come to hang on the walls of my log home since. I amalgamated both the “old school” patience and aggressive “move on the bird” techniques into a blended style incorporating what I believe to be the best of both worlds. It’s just such a combination of techniques that served me well on a hunt made this past spring. The morning broke crisp and clear, and I set out after a gobbler that had eluded me the previous day. I hadn’t quite been in the right location when he gobbled and didn’t manage to move on him quick enough to close the deal before he hushed up and disappeared. From my preseason scouting trips in the neighborhood, I’d become pretty familiar with his usual habits. He liked to roost on a tall hilltop in a stand of pines on the crest of the rise. Many folks will tell you how smart an old gobbler is. I tend to think of them as far more patient than overly bright. Its not how much smarter they are than their pursuers as how they’ll give a hunter all the time he needs to mess himself up. As I sat there waiting for what seemed an interminable length of time, I began to second-guess my plan, thinking perhaps I’d picked the wrong place to set up that day. At the same time, I reminded myself the importance of giving a plan sufficient time to prove out, so I waited quietly a little longer. After another half-hour, the woods erupted with his gobbling through the tall trees all around. With my back against a 4-foot-diameter loblolly, shotgun perched on an upraised knee, I spied his silhouette strutting back and forth along the crest of the ridge above and in front of me. I froze in place, silently clicking the safety off my Remington 12-gauge. I expected him to swagger down the slope within gun range and I’d have my opportunity. After a few minutes of continued gobbling, he wandered further along the ridgeline and entered the adjacent clear-cut. I called softly in hopes of drawing him in my direction, but watched helpless as he made his way quickly down the hill and along the wood line heading north. I let out my breath, relaxing at his exit, thinking how my patient “old school” method had failed. But still, all was not lost. He hadn’t seen me, so he wasn’t spooked. It was time to take more aggressive action.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM
Harvesting turkeys requires different techniques
Arkansas gobblers are some of the craftiest prey around.
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 39
I got to my feet in a crouch and climbed the steep slope darting from big tree to big tree for concealment. I made my way along the ridgeline to the edge of the trees with camouflage mask still in place. There he was, dark feathers glistening in the morning sun, some 200 yards distant, pecking along next to the pine plantation at the far end of the clear-cut. My blood again rose realizing the hunt wasn’t done. With a new plan in place, I began to trot in full gear, shotgun slung over my shoulder and a hunting vest loaded with various turkey calls, bottled water, insect repellent, extra shells and seat cushion. I stopped at intervals to breathe and briefly look over the rise to check the progress of my quarry. I was pleased to see him slowly but surely making his way ever east toward where I expected. I pushed on through briars and low hanging limbs, hurrying as silently as possible down the hillside and along the diverging trails. Stopping to catch my breath, I crawled quietly the last few yards into position to look out over the clear-cut. I got into a somewhat comfortable position with my back against a pine sapling and a low-lying hedge of blackberry vines in front. The only drawback to my plan was the gobbler had two ways he could turn when he reached the gravel road. Sometimes it all comes down to luck. I watched him pecking his way toward the road as patiently as I could, my elevated blood pressure slowly returning to normal. He occasionally disappeared behind foliage but soon again reappeared as he made his way steadily east, stopping occasionally to strut and gobble. I took a few swigs from my water bottle and readied my call to encourage him in my direction if need be. As he came to the road some 65 yards distant, I readied my gun. The bird pecked small stones for his craw and flared his feathers in silence, making great display of his plumage in the late morning light. He stalled in place, walking round and round at the trailhead. I took up my Lynch box-call and gave him some cuts, clucks and a yelp. He perked up and fluffed out his feathers but didn’t make a step in my direction. This went on for another 20 minutes before he slowly began to wander away. Once more I let out a breath, thinking at this rate he might live to gobble another day. Taking a few more moments, I decided we weren’t yet done. Giving him sufficient time to disappear up the road, I emerged from the cover and slipped across the opening to the pine plantation at the far side of the clear-cut. Once more, my knowledge of trails through the plantation thickets facilitated my movements to get ahead of the bird’s path. As I stealthily slipped along, I paused at times to listen for his gobbles. He obliged me, revealing his whereabouts in relation to my own. Racing forward I intended to head him off and be ready for his appearance. 40 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
Remembering his habits from previous days, I could only hope he’d complete his circuit around the plantation and make his way back into the north end of the 80-acre forest where we’d first begun our dance. I backed out of the pines and made my way toward a spot where the plantation, clear-cut and big woods all joined on each other. With any luck, he’d eventually end up right at that intersection. As I made my way for the ambush spot, his continued gobbling indicated the direction of his trek might just bring my plan to fruition. With gun at the ready, I put my back against the base of a great spreading oak near the edge of the mixed stand of timber. After only a short while, I heard him strike up gobbling hotter than he’d been all day in one of his favorite strutting zones some 100 yards west in the midst of the tall trees. I waited and listened while he went on for another 10 minutes double and triple gobbling. It was enough to make the whole ordeal worthwhile. I clucked on my slate a few times to excite his interest. He answered me twice with double gobbles, then went silent. In another moment, the underbrush parted, and the bird came through the big trees at a steady trot, its long, thick beard wagging back and forth. I followed his progress with my gun barrel as he stepped out into the clearing 30 yards distant. Easing off the safety, I squeezed the trigger. He staggered but failed to drop. I drew a second bead and let fly. He dropped dead in his tracks, barely flopping in his death throes, lifeless before me in the corner of the cutover. I leapt to my feet and bounded toward the harvest. Elation washed over me to see the 7-hour hunt come to satisfactory culmination. He was a fully mature 3-year-old with an 11-inch beard and inch-and-a-quarter spurs. Following a long employed ritual, I pulled my hunting license from a shirt pocket and retrieved a condiment pack of salt from between its folds. Tearing it open, I emptied the contents over the head and feathers of the bird in a NativeAmerican salt blessing tradition, saying a prayer of thanks to the Creator for the creature who gave up this gift. I filled out my tag grinning from ear to ear and slung the beautiful trophy over a shoulder before striking out on the mile walk back to my truck. Persistence paid dividends. Worn out from the adventure, I slept the sleep of the righteous that evening.
by Richard Ledbetter
PHOTO BY RICHARD LEDBETTER
Turkey beards line the wall of author Richard Ledbetter’s house.
S A F E T Y
IS KEY
1701 Rebsamen Park Road | Little Rock, AR 72202
Hunting is some of the best fun anyone can have, but it comes with a great deal of responsibility. Practicing good firearm safety techniques can mean the difference between a great story to tell and tragedy. Play it safe! TEN COMMANDMENTS OF FIREARM SAFETY:
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Treat every gun as if it were loaded. Always be aware of where the gun’s muzzle is pointed. Unload guns when not in use. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions. Be sure of your target before you pull the trigger. Never point a gun at anything you do not want to shoot. Never climb a tree or fence or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm. C
M
When hunting in a tree stand, verify your gun is on safety before climbing. Maintain three points of contact at all times while climbing; either two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or water.
K
Store guns and ammunition separately. Avoid alcoholic beverages before and during shooting. For more safety information, visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at afgc.com.
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 41
Thrill OF THE Hunt DUCKS
PHOTO BY GRANT HARKREADER
IN PURSUIT OF
Hunter Spencer Griffith has built a lifetime’s worth of friendships chasing ducks across Arkansas, from the Delta all the way up to this boat trip on Lake Dardanelle. 42 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
I
t’s 4 in the morning, and Jackson, my wire-haired black lab, skirts under the slowly lifting garage door of a quiet cul-de-sac house in Little Rock as soon as his belly allows. I follow, walking out to the truck with gear over my shoulder and a cup of warm coffee in hand. There’s frost on my breath as I holler “load up!” to Jackson, and once he bounds into the truck, we head to the duck blind. About an hour’s drive later, I pull off onto an old gravel road just north of Stuttgart. Reaching over to spin the dial on the radio, I roll my window down to listen to the waterfowl in the fields. I lean over to Jackson and tell him the “susies” (mallard hens) are up in force and talking to him this morning. He looks at me, dancing back and forth as he shifts his weight on his front paws. He knows where he is and what’s in store if we do our job right. Just as I buckle my waders, my great-uncle Bill (who bought me my first duck call), and two close friends have pulled in next to me, and soon we’re ready for the short trek to our pit blind. We quickly set our decoys, and as Bill reviews our work, he inevitably finds one out of place by a few feet. We reset it to his liking, and I sit down on the top lip of the blind to enjoy my favorite part of the hunt: the first cigar of the season. I sip on my second cup of coffee, and watch the cherry glow of the burning tip, which by now matches the first stitches of light coming across the horizon. The birds roosting in the field are starting to come to life with an orchestra of whistling wings all around the blind. My oldest friend in the world, Grant, looks over at me and nods, as if to say it’s going to be a good morning — but we don’t dare utter those words. Guns start rumbling off in the distance a few minutes before shooting hours. The final seconds
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 43
PHOTOS BY GRANT HARKREADER / SPENCER GRIFFITH
A full limit of ducks brings a smile to the face of Spencer Griffith and Nick Johnston.
44 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
Black lab Jackson sits proud after a day’s work fetching ducks.
tick down to the opening of duck season. We all pintails and a couple of mallard drakes from pick out a target, and I call out “cut ’em!” the bunch, and there are high-fives all around. There’s more to the atmosphere of the blind I send Jackson after a crippled mallard drake, than just the birds themselves, though. As watching with pride as he repeatedly marks morning goes on, we catch up on life and tell old and fetches the downed ducks from the volley. hunting tales between working groups of ducks He makes sure to shake off as much water into and adding to the stringers. John recalls a hunt the the pit upon each return as possible. I guess I previous year where we capsized a boat running still need to work on that command. an old ditch outside We sit around for Clarendon. The quarteranother hour to finish mile walk back to the up our limits, but we blind required us to don’t mind. Breaks in Arkansas Waterfowl break thigh-deep ice the action to watch Stamp sales rose to an all-time high the whole way back— t he birds a nd ou r of 104,629 in 2015. making the heater in dogs work is what our blind even more we love about duck welcoming than usual. hunting in the f irst We all walked away place. I often get asked unscathed, save for the loss of a ditty bag and why I come out to an old metal box in the cold some calls. To this day, we still call the boat and wet to shoot ducks. My answer: Have driver that day “Poseidon” due to his knack for you ever shared a sunrise from a duck blind, sinking boats. watched the drive and passion of a retriever As we all laugh at John’s account of water you’ve trained, listened to wings cup at your coming over the bow and hitting his back, call and told stories of old hunts with lifelong Grant whispers “on your right.” I throw out friends as you ate duck poppers? If not, you some faint feeder calls and chuckles as he wouldn’t understand — but you can. Hop in the works the lead susie and the dozen mallards truck opening day and I’ll show you. behind her. Bill notices two drake pintails that drop into the group from the left. After a few passes they cup into gun range, we slide back the rolling lid tops on the pit and I raise my Beretta A400. After three quick concussions from all of our guns, we have bagged the two
by Spencer Griffith ARKANSASWILD.COM | 45
FIND THE RIGHT PUP
Most experienced gundog owners and trainers will tell you that starting out with the right dog for you and your family is essential to success. Understanding what you want in a trained adult dog will help you make decisions about breed, gender and bloodline. These decisions will greatly affect your dog’s temperament, size, natural abilities and ease of training. In my case, I was looking for a gundog that would hunt ducks in flooded timber and pit blinds, but would spend far more time living in the house, floating in a canoe or hiking down a trail. Therefore, a smaller British lab with a strong bloodline and a lot of energy was the right fit.
DOG DAYS
Developing a gundog for home and field
F
or an avid waterfowl hunter, owning a good retriever is a top priority. Anyone who has hunted with a well-trained dog knows the savings in time, energy and lost ducks a loyal hunting companion provides. But having a great dog means more than just performance on the hunt. In a good year, I spend around 30 days in the duck blind. Throw in a few days of teal season, dove season and a conservation hunt, and that still leaves more than 300 days a year that your retriever isn’t being used as a gundog. Nearly a decade ago, I came across an article about Wildrose Kennels in Oxford, Mississippi. The story outlined their method for training sporting dogs for both field and family. The idea of having a gundog that also fit the rest of my family’s lifestyle was exactly what I wanted. So when it came time to add another Labrador to our family, I turned to Wildrose for the perfect gentleman’s gundog. Here are four tips that I have learned along the way.
by Spencer Griffith 46 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
SELECT A TRAINING METHOD AND STICK WITH IT
There are countless blogs, podcast, books and videos that outline gundog training methods, drills and executions. At their core, most methods can be categorized as either a force or a positive training philosophy. I have seen both used with great success. The most important thing is selecting a method and sticking to it. According to Mike Stewart, author of Sporting Dog and Retriever Training the Wildrose Way, there are five reasons a dog will do what you want it to do: instinct, pleasure, trust/confidence, patterning and avoidance. Many of the force and positive reinforcement training methods take these natural instincts and shape a dog’s behavior through reinforcements or corrections around these.
BUILD ON A STRONG TRAINING FOUNDATION
Most big errors in training a gundog center on pushing a dog’s training too quickly or jumping past fundamentals before a pup is ready. It is important to challenge your dog in a way that they can be successful and that allows you to provide value in corrections and reinforcement. For me, I had to learn to recognize and admit when my dog needed to go back to rework fundamentals, when he was tired or when a drill was too complicated.
PHOTO BY SPENCER GRIFFITH
Author Spencer Griffith’s dog, Jack, shows off his training.
REMEMBER YOU’RE TRAINING MORE THAN JUST A GUNDOG
It was important that I have both an obedient gundog that could perform safely and effectively on duck hunts and also function as a member of our family. I chose not to dedicate the additional hours for him to become a field trial dog, preferring to focus that time and energy on introducing and training him to integrate into other family adventures. We have used the same training fundamentals used for training gundogs to introduce him to adventure sports like floating, hiking, camping, fishing and boating. Of note, Wildrose Kennels has a satellite training facility located in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas along the Little Buffalo River where they work on adventure dog certification and training with their pups.
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American Kennel Club Registered Name: Sir Jack Daniels of Whiskey Pedigree: Full Blood British Lab from Wildrose Kennels, Oxford MS Age: 6 years Color: Black Loves: Duck hunting, lake time, vanilla ice cream, tennis balls, swimming and walks For more information on Wildrose Kennels, visit uklabs.com.
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TOP GUIDES
SPENCER JEU DUXMEN OUTFITTERS GUIDE SERVICE & LODGE HOMETOWN: JONESBORO
For Duxmen Outfitters Spencer Jeu, guiding is more than just a job BY MICHAEL ROBERTS
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE A CAREER OF BEING A GUIDE? I’ve wanted to make duck hunting my job since I was a kid. I started duck hunting with my father and my grandfather when I was four years old. Since then, duck hunting has been my passion. HOW MANY HUNTS DO YOU GUIDE IN A TYPICAL SEASON? At Duxmen Lodge, we have customers every day except Thanksgiving, the day after Christmas and the last five days of the season. That comes out to about 53 days during the Arkansas duck season. ARE YOU STRICTLY A DUCK HUNTING GUIDE? We guide for specks [specklebelly geese] during both the regular duck season as well as the first and second season split. We also guide for snow geese during the conservation order. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE GUN CHOICE ON A HUNT? My all-time favorite gun is the Remington 870 because of its reliability. I also own and use a Benelli Super Black Eagle II, which is a great gun that holds up in every kind of weather condition and can stand up to the rugged life of a waterfowl guide. WHAT’S THE ADVANTAGE OF WORKING WITH A GUIDE ON A HUNT AS OPPOSED TO A HUNTER GOING IT ALONE? The advantage of using a guide service is that all the property hunted is private. That means the client won’t have to deal with the stress and headache of the public. Working with a guide also means the ability to hunt multiple spots in a hurry because we can adjust to where the birds are quickly. Going with an outfitter also means the client doesn’t have to waste time finding birds. WHAT IS IT ABOUT DUXMEN OUTFITTERS & LODGE THAT YOU FEEL MAKES IT UNIQUE? Duxmen Outfitters is unique because we don’t just look at our customers as a dollar sign; we want to get to know people and build a relationship so they’ll want to come back. Taking care of the client and giving them the best waterfowl experience sets us apart. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR HUNTERS GOING ON THEIR FIRST GUIDED HUNT? It’s a trust issue. The client must feel the outfitter isn’t lying to them or just blowing smoke. Ask questions, because that will make the outfitter explain themselves and make sure there are no contradictions. A good outfitter is going to work to make sure the customer has a successful hunt, but sometimes it doesn’t go that way when you are hunting a wild animal. Clients should trust their guide’s decisions, because the outfitter is the one who knows the area and how the birds move. WHO TAUGHT YOU THE MOST ABOUT GUIDING? I really wasn’t taught how to guide, but I learned how to hunt and be successful from my father and grandfather. Those two men taught me to respect the outdoors and be thankful for every moment I get to spend outside. They also taught me how to speak to others and be respectful to others, something that is very important in business. To set up your all-inclusive hunt with Spencer, call 501-944-8007 or 870-897-3006. Visit duxmenoutfitters.com for details on rates, season dates and more.
48 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DUXMEN OUTFITTERS
CHILDHOOD DREAM
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE? I’ve been guiding since 2004. That’s the year my business partner, Zach Fahlberg, and I started Duxmen Outfitters.
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All-inclusive Hunting Package Package: • Lodging • Flat screen and Wifi • Delicious gourmet meals at 43 Grill & Bar • Guided hunts • Transportation to hunting blinds • Duck processing $650/day (per person) Two-day minimum
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OUT & ABOUT
NEW COMFORTS, OLD TRADITIONS BY KAT ROBINSON
SHOTGUN PARADISE
Gary Gibbs started Delta Resort & Spa in Tillar because he wanted others to have the same opportunities to experience the Arkansas Delta he’s enjoyed for many years. Construction began in 2007, with the first events held onsite in 2011. “We started hunting here in the late ’70s,” Gary says. He and his father, Buck Gibbs, spent many seasons hunting in Delta bottomland and farmland, a love he now shares with his two sons, Josh and Jeremy. One of the best ways to experience Delta Resort is through the sights of your favorite shotgun. Venues include “five stand, sporting clays, Olympic bunker, American trap and skeet shooting,” says Rick Hales, the resort’s general manager. “These multiple shooting opportunities are a big thing for shotgunners.” The resort has become a major training hub for both youth shooters and Olympic hopefuls who flock to the world-class facilities.
STAY CONNECTED, STAY COMFORTABLE
It’s an always-connected world, and the folks at Delta Resort have gone to great lengths to ensure the highest quality internet and technological resources available in the region. Guests are able to view the big events held at the resort from their rooms or online from anywhere. That makes the conference center at the resort attractive. Delta Resort & Spa also features two hotels with a total of 130 quality hotel rooms, a spa, a conference center that can accommodate 300 and a pro shop (Duck Pro Outfitters). The onsite restaurant, 43 Grill & Bar, offers dinner Wednesday thru Saturday and a popular Sunday brunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Corporate meetings are provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner. As for the spa, it’s popular across the range of Delta’s guests. “Our clientele includes competitive shooters,” says Rick.
State-of-the-art luxury is the standard at Delta Resort & Spa’s 130 hotel rooms.
“Massages are a regular part of their professional routine. Physical therapy is important to our athletes. We also host weddings and local events where people can come for an overnight stay. Spa services are provided for many local residents.” Hales says more improvements will come online soon, including a 1,000-yard high-powered rifle range as early as the end of this year. An indoor pistol range and a top-of-theline indoor shooting simulator are on the horizon.
ON THE HUNT
In addition to competitive shooters, the resort is also a popular destination for hunters. Its location at the junction of the Arkansas, Mississippi and White rivers places Delta Resort right in the middle of some of the best waterfowl hunting areas in the world. That status comes with a great sense of responsibility to maintain and conserve the land for both the enjoyment of hunters and the health of waterfowl populations. “We have a hunting manager on staff who prepares the property for the upcoming hunts based on best conservation practices,” says Rick. “We have other experienced contract guides as needed that come in for duck season with us.” Scheduled hunts are planned throughout duck season.
GET HISTORICAL
Reg ionally, there are a number of fascinating opportunities to discover the rich history of the Arkansas Delta. Learn about a different side of the Second World War at the Japanese-American Internment Museum in nearby McGehee, or go even further back in time to the frontier days at the Arkansas Post Museum near Gillett. Of course, if pop culture is more your thing, the Arkansas Entertainers Hall of Fame in Pine Bluff is just the ticket. From Levon Helm to Jerry Van Dyke, this museum is home to memorabilia and information about famous folks with Arkansas ties.
LOCATION: Almost two hours southeast of Little Rock or three hours south of the Memphis area at 8624 Bucksducks Road in Tillar. GPS: 34.436196, -91.3555079 Phone: 877-463-3582 deltaconferencecenter.com cated in the The resort is lo ck world’s best du middle of the hunting land. 50 | Arkansas Wild ¸ fall 2016
Shotgun enthusiasts can take advantag e of world-class shooting facilities.
PHOTOS BY KAT ROBINSON
Delta Resort & Spa pairs sporting life with luxury
ARKANSASWILD.COM | 51
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