Kinney County Post Sporstman Guide 2018

Free

Special Edition

S2portsman G uide 018

Kinney County Post

What’s New 2018-19 Hunting & Fishing

Hunting with Soldiers Burt’s Ranch

Hunter’s Roundup

Kinney Co. (Page 7) Uvalde Co. (Page 17)

KCP Sportsman Guide Online www.kcpguide.com

(Present & Past Issues)

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3

KCP Takes 1st at

STPA Convention

The Kinney County Post (KCP) received a 1st place award for the 2017 KCP Sportsman Guide during the 92nd Annual South Texas Press Association (STPA) Convention held in Kerrville, TX on April 20, 2018 in the Division 1 Special Section.

Photo: Pam Hale, KCP Editor, holding the 1st Place 2017-18 STPA Award plaque.

Like what you see?

Want to advertise or share your story in our 2019 Fall issue?

Contact Pam Hale (830) 563-5432 kcp.hale@yahoo.com 4

Advertiser

Index

Ag Equipment, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ag Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Amistad Manufactured Homes, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Arc-Rite Welding & Truck Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Arrowhead Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 B & J Tractor Service (Billy Whaley, Jr.). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Border Federal Credit Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Cardwell Water Well Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Chicago Title. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Chuy’s Deer Processing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 D&D Hardware & Sporting Goods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Del Rio Feed & Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Del Rio Veterinary Diagnostic Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Del Rio Welders Equipment Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Devils River Taxidermy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Doc Hollidays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Edwards Graham Insurance Agency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 First State Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Fletcher’s Appliance & Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Fort Clark Springs (Hunting). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Page Grover Lemarr (Realtor). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Homestead Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Jenn’s Beer Wine & Spirits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Kinney County Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Kinney County Hunter’s Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Kinney County Wool House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Linda Loehl (Riata Realty) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Mission Title, LP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Mumme’s Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Oasis Outback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Pamandan Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Paulino’s Service Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Pizza Outpost. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Plaza del sol Mall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Ramada/Studio 6/Holiday Inn Express. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 RC Taxidermy (Rough Country). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 ReAnna Hay (Tejas Properties) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Rhonda Montgomery Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rio Grande Electric Coop (RGEC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Roadrunner Energy, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Sirloin Stockade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 SOE Beverage Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Southwest Auto & Tractor (SWAT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 South Texas Refuse Desposal, Inc (STRD). . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Stan Metcalf Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Texas Community Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Triple R Ventures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 TW Equipment, L.L.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Uvalde Hunters Roundup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Uvalde Meat Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Uvalde Memorial Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Uvalde Producers Feed Mill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Western Hill Country Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Weyrich Farm Pecans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Y’all Come Back Saloon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ziggy Taxidermy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Ziggy’s Roadside BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

STAN METCALF Owner & Publisher (830) 563-7336 mtroopco8@att.net kinneycopost@yahoo.com (830) 563-9047

Pam Hale

Editor, Advertising kcp.hale@yahoo.com 830-563-5432 Brittany Hale Assistant Editor

www.kcpguide.com This Sportsman Guide is a special edition and is published annually by the Kinney County Post.

The Kinney County Post is published weekly, distributed every Thursday, by: Stan Metcalf, 104 East Military, Hwy 90, P.O. Box 366, Brackettville, Texas 78832. Phone (830) 563-9047.

Printed by Shweiki Media, 511 W. 41st Street, Austin, TX 78751 Deadlines for weekly Newspaper issues:

Ad submissions - Mondays at noon.

Articles and stories - Mondays at noon.

To submit your information, send to: Kinney Co. Post 104 East Military, Hwy 90 PO BOX 366, Brackettville, TX 78832 kinneycopost@yahoo.com or call (830) 563-5432 Volume 7, 52 Pages

contents

Important Purchase Numbers License

Operation Game Thief 800-792-Game (4263) Sheriff’s Offices (911) Edwards County 830-683-4310 Kinney County 830-563-2788 Maverick County 830-773-2321 Medina County 830-741-6150 Real County 830-232-5201 Uvalde County 830-278-9147 Val Verde County 830-774-7513 Game Warden offices San Angelo Region 325-651-4844 San Antonio Region 210-348-7375 Border Patrol Brackettville 830-563-6000 Carrizo Springs 830-876-3557 Comstock 432-292-4450 Del Rio Sector 830-778-7000 Del Rio Station 830-778-3000 Eagle Pass (North) 830-758-4000 Eagle Pass (South) 830-752-3300 Rocksprings 830-683-2255 Uvalde 830-486-7600

Brackettville: Lowe’s Super S 830-563-2500 Stripes 830-563-2424 Del Rio: Russell Hardware 830-775-3502 Wal-Mart 830-774-6034 Eagle Pass: Wal-Mart 830-773-9403 Western Edge Ranch Supply 830-776-5980 Hondo: Mumme’s 830-426-3313 Tetco 830-426-3313 Valley Mart 830-426-4356 Wal-Mart 830-426-4356 Rocksprings: Lowe’s Super S 830-683-2178 Uvalde: Oasis Outback 830-278-4000 Wal-Mart 830-278-9117 Partners 830-278-9700 Peter Rabbit’s Fast Foods 830-278-6401

Cover photo by Bob Zaiglin

4

Advertisers Index

4

KCP Sportsman Guide Award

36

Field Dressing a Deer

7

Kinney County Hunter’s Round-up

37

Caping for Shoulder Mount

10

Lake Amistad

12 - 13

34 - 35

38 - 40

Taming the Wild (Recipes)

Amistad Final Destination

Hunting with Soldiers

41

Fishing Tounament Schedule

15

KCS Guide Scholarship

43

TPWD Graduates (62nd Class)

16

Rock Climbing on the Pecos River

44

Fillet a Fish

17

Uvalde Hunter’s Roundup

45

What’s New

20 - 22

Field Guide to the Birds

47

Devil’s River

26 - 27

Harvest Data - Bob Zaiglin

48

Rio Grande Electric

30 - 31

Seminole Canyon

49 - 50

FCS Axis Hunt 5

Awesome Autumn in Kinney County Day Hunting RV Park / Camping 18 Hole Gold Course 9 Hole Disc Golf Course Birding Historic Fort Clark Historic Brackettville Hunter’s Roundup (Nov. 4th)

Come join in on the adventure More info.....

Fortclark.com and Kinneycounty.org

Wool House

Yeti Products Sold Here!

Kinney County Wool & Mohair 702 W. Spring Street Brackettville, TX 78832

Deer Blinds Deer Feed Plumbing Hardware Decorative Items Purses & Billfolds Jewelry Much More!

830-563-2471 Mon. - Fri.: 8am-5pm Sat.: 8am -12 noon

KC Hunters Round up

Celebrating 20 Years!

Welcome Back Hunters!

Kinney County appreciates all the business that hunting brings to Kinney County during hunting season and we want to welcome you back with the 20th Annual Hunter’s Roundup on Saturday, November 3 from 6:00 to 10:00 pm at the Kinney County Civic Center. A pork loin, famous beans, twice baked potato plate with Axis taco soup will be served for $10 a person and that dinner ticket will get you a chance on the evening’s many door prizes. If you have a current hunting license, you are our guests and there is no charge for the dinner.

Local businesses, individuals, and vendors donate door prizes and auction items. The committee also purchases thousands of dollars of door prizes and auction items from local businesses and surrounding counties’ businesses.

The Hunter’s Roundup has several guns on display at Kinney County Wool & Mohair and they will be given away at the end of the evening on Saturday, November 3.

The 14 Guns (plus 1 Special Jose Valencia Carved gun) to be raffled are: * Remington 308 * Remington 308 * Remington 308 * Remington 300 * Remington 7MM * Remington 7MM * Remington 6.5 Creedmoor * Remington 270 * Remington 270 * Remington 22250 * Remington 3006 * Savage 6.5 * Remington 12 Ga. 20” * Savage 7MM08 Get your chance today! Chances to win the guns are on sale now and will be sold all evening at Hunter’s Roundup.

You do not have to be present to win. Guns are on display at the Kinney County Wool House.

This year a Polaris XP 900 Ranger is being raffled off for $100 per ticket with ONLY 200 tickets being sold. Presale tickets can be bought at D& D Hardware, Kinney County Wool House and Southwest Auto (all in Brackettville), Del Rio Powersports in Del Rio and Uvalde Meat Market in Uvalde.

Thank You to our 2018 Hunter Roundup Event Sponsors.

Thank you to the hunters from all over who chose to hunt each year in Kinney County! We appreciate you!

Kinney County Wildlife Damage Management Association

HUNTERS’ ROUNDUP

To be given away Saturday evening, November 3, 2017 during Hunters’ Roundup at the Civic Center.

Gun Raffle: One ticket for $5 or five tickets for $20 Remington 308 Remington 308 Remington 7MM Remington 6.5 Creedmoor Remington 270 Remington 3006 Remington 12 Ga. 20”

Remington 308 Remington 300 Remington 7MM Remington 270 Remington 22250 Savage 6.5 Savage 7MM08

7

Large

E OM C L S WE TER N U H

Selection!

jenn’s

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We sell hunting and fishing licenses!

1210 Madrid @ Hwy 90 W Castroville 830-538-3366

beer, wine & spirits

Mon-Sat • 10am- 9pm Drive-up Window Available!

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Del Rio WelDeRs equipment Co. • Industrial Gases • Welding Equipment • Medical Gases

2802 E. Main Eagle Pass, TX (830) 773-1157 (830) 773-1158

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• Safety Supplies • Fire Extinguisher Sales & Service

2045 N. Bedell Ave. Del Rio, TX 78840 (830)775-1096 (830)775-2141 (830) 774-6031

Happy Hunting!

Hwy 90 Brackettville, TX 78832

Triple R Ventures

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2603 Main Street • Eagle Pass • 830-776-2543 2578 S. Hwy 83 • Carrizo Springs • 830-876-6616

CHUY’S Deer Processing

By Robert Munoz

are & Sporting Go w o ard

D&D

ds

H

HUNTERS WELCOME

Est. 1876

Historic Downtown Brackettville

101 West Spring Street Brackettville, Texas 830-563-2528

Come by and try a free sample of our quality sausage at the Kinney County Hunters Round-Up!

Most Major Credit Cards Accepted Custom ProCessing SAUSAGES

- Smoked - Summer - Jalapeno & Cheese

Cell # 830-734-0955 or 830-563-2422 North Ann Street

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Lake Amistad

AMISTAD NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

Boaters Paradise From open water to narrow, steeply walled canyons, Amistad is a great place for boating. The park boundary extends 74 miles up the Rio Grande, 25 miles up the Devils River and 14 miles up the Pecos River. Protected coves abound, providing superb fishing and ideal camping spots.

Amistad is an international reservoir.

The US-Mexico border is marked by buoys that follow the historic channel of the Rio Grande.

Lake Use Passes can be purchased at Amistad Visitor Center. For current Mexico boat permit and fishing license information, go to www.sportfishinginmexico.com

Hiking Trails Amistad National Recreation Area offers hikers a number of trails to explore, whether you are interested in just a short walk or a more ambitious hike. You are welcome to hike on your own, and guided hikes are available on Saturday mornings.

A short interpretive nature trail can be found at Diablo East.

The Sunrise Trail is 2.1 miles long and connects the park Visitor Center with Spur 454.

The Figueroa Trail is a series of trails that comprise the longest trails in the recreation area.

Be sure to have a copy of Amistad NRA’s Official Map and Guide.

Amistad Visitor Information Center Open daily 8 am to 4:30 pm (CST) Phone 830-775-7491, Ext 0 Location 5 miles NW of Del Rio city limits at 9685 US 90 W.

Camping There are five designated campgrounds within the park: Governors Landing, Rough Canyon, San Pedro, Spur 406, and 277 North. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are no reservations. Campgrounds are generally open year-round.

Site capacity is not to exceed eight persons and one recreational vehicle camping unit The park has three areas available for group camping: Rock Quarry, San Pedro, and 277 North. Group camp size must have a minimum of 15 people.

Backcountry camping is permitted on the lake waters and shoreline, but not A developed area.

www.manufacturedhomesdelriotx.com

Located at 5375 W. Hwy 90, Del Rio, TX 78840

Pizza Outpost Pizza & Wings souPs & salad Beer & Wine Open daily 11am - 10pm

302 E. Military Hwy, Brackettville, TX across from Fort Clark Springs

www.pizzaoutpost.com

830-867-4008

g n i t n Hu

with

s r e i d sol

2017 WAS A GREAT YEAR FOR HUNTING WITH SOLDIERS!

Hunting with Soldiers had a great year in 2017. In that year we were able to provide hunting and fishing adventures for 103 Combat Veterans. There is no better feeling than sitting in the stand or in the boat with a Combat Veteran and watching the relaxation just flow through them. Knowing that we are witnessing the healing of this person, who has probably seen more than most people do in their nightmares. That is what Hunting with Soldiers is about. We provide hunting and fishing adventures for Combat Veterans, at no cost to them, to help give the healing from PTSD that no medications can imitate.

We do this for Combat Veterans of all Campaigns. We do not require them to be injured in Combat since PTSD is often the unseen injury. We pride ourselves in doing this with all Volunteer Staff. We also pride ourselves in making it public that when a person donates to our Organization, we do not send you a backpack or a blanket. We feel that is like giving your child money to buy you a gift.

Your gift back for your Tax-Deductible Donation is seeing the smiles on the faces of the Combat Veterans and knowing that you may have helped prevent one of the 22 a day Combat Veterans that commit suicide. At one of our fundraisers, I was given an analogy by a Preacher. I will

12 12

never forget it. It goes like this: When many of our Veterans come home, they fall into a deep dark hole, like a well. The only way to rescue them is to go in after them and pull them out of the deep dark hole. But that person can not go into that deep dark hole without someone holding the rope. In this analogy, the ones go-

ing into the deep dark hole are Hunting with Soldiers. The ones holding the rope are the Donors. We can not do what we do without our land, boat, product, and monetary donors. Thank you to all who have donated.

One of my best memories from 2017 was from our bass fishing trip. We had a trip for 25 Combat Veterans on Lake Fork, TX. Two of the 25 were Vietnam Veterans. One was a Marine and the other an Army Helicopter Pilot. On the first evening, after everyone arrived on Friday,

we had a Police and motorcycle escort from our motel to the place we had set up for our first dinner. When we arrived for the dinner, one of the Iraq Veterans who rode with one of our Vietnam Veterans, came to me and asked if I would go talk to David (The Vietnam Veteran). He said he was crying. I walked to David and saw that he had tears running down his face. I asked him if he were ok. He told me “You do not know how good I am. When I came home from Vietnam, I was spit on and called a baby killer. I have been to events where they brought in the Veterans from this war. They were great. Gordon, this is the very first time anything has been done like this for me.� That was an awesome experience. I was witnessing the healing of a man who had been suffering for over 43 years. That was a big healing point for him and I was there. How great is that?

One other great memory was when I received a call after Veterans Day from a guy I know in Amarillo, TX. He had taken food to the Veterans Assisted Living Facility there. While there, he was talking to a Vietnam Veteran, who had lost his legs. The Vietnam Veteran happened to tell him his bucket list before he dies. He wanted to shoot an M1 Grande and a 44 Magnum. My buddy asked me

if Hunting with Soldiers could make that happen. I told him to give me a week.

Within a week the assisted living facility Administrator said they could provide transportation, we had a firing range lined up, and both weapons as well as a lot more lined up for him to shoot. When the assisted living facility brought him to the range, it was great to see his eyes light up. Although his hitting the target skills had long since passed, he had the time of his life. We did find that the M1 was a little too much kick for him in his aging years. That was a great blessing to witness. While visiting with the Administrator, he said there were several more that heard what was happening. They loved it and wanted to come shoot. So, seeing that the M1 had too much kick, I had the idea of getting 22 rifles and getting the aging Veterans out to have fun shooting them. They would be perfect. No kick, but lots of fun for the aging Veterans.

In 2017 we hunted and fished in many places. We fished at Richland Chambers lake, Lake Fork, & Port Aransas. We hunted in Henrietta, TX, Paducah, TX, Llano, TX, San Saba, TX, Henderson, TX, Aspermont, TX, Del Rio, TX, Batesville, TX, & Brackettville, TX. While in Brackettville, we hunted the Pamandan Ranch, owned by Peter Holmes and managed by Daniel White.

We had 3 Children of Combat Veterans there for a hunt. Children of Combat Veterans is one of the hunts we do. What better way for a Combat Veteran to heal than to hunt with their child. We also

had 3 rifles donated for these Children, Camo donated by Mossy Oak, Binoculars from Vortex Optics, and 3 scopes also donated by Vortex Optics.

When we got to the ranch, I had to run to Brackettville before the kids got there. On the way to town, I passed 3 Game Warden trucks. All I could think is that someone had really messed up and they were going to get them. When I got back to the ranch, I saw that all three trucks were there at the house. Kind of startled me. Come to find out, Daniel had arranged for the Game Wardens from that area to guide the kids. That kind of excited the kids knowing that they were going to be guided by the Game Wardens.

We also had 2 great guys who have been helping for a while now, Pete Blozis and the best camp cook ever, Hank Lewis.

The rifles, scopes (already mounted on the rifles), camo, and binoculars were all presented to the kids. The Game Wardens then went and helped them sight in their rifles. We noticed that there was a lot of shooting trying to get the rifles sighted in. Then we got the call from one of the Game Wardens. He noticed that inside the cover for the sight adjustment, it read Rimfire. Vortex had sent us scopes for a rimfire rifle. They got them sighted in and they would work for the weekend, but after, I advised the parents that we would remove the scopes from the rifles before they went home and get them the proper scopes. All of the kids had a great time. Animals were harvested, and some great memories were made. Most of all,

Combat Veterans were able to heal from PTSD and bond with their Children.

Before all left, I removed the scopes from the rifles. When I got back to my home, I contacted Vortex. They advised they were sending 3 new scopes. I then advised Vortex what we were wanting to do with the aging Veterans. They advised us to keep the rimfire scopes and put them on the 22 rifles for the Veterans to use. What a great company.

After everyone left, I was able to visit Fort Clark Springs there in Brackettville.

That is a beautiful place. I am proud to say that we are now going to be getting 2 Combat Veterans there on a hunt in October. So, we will be seeing all in Brackettville again. Brackettville is a beautiful little town and the people are always great. We hope to be getting many more Combat Veterans into that area. If anyone wants to get some Veterans on their place, just please let us know. You can email us at huntingwithsoldiers@live.com It is all tax deductible. We also have the Veterans sign a Release of Liability Form prior to their hunt.

At the time of this article being written, Hunting with Soldiers has gotten 39 Combat Veterans into the outdoors as of the beginning of 2018. We have several hunts lined up and a fishing trip as well.

We hope to add many more.

Gordon Melton President Hunting with Soldiers www.huntingwithsoldiers.org

13

50 Acre to 6000 Acre Properties

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(830) 563-9256 Mon. - Fri.: 8am - 5pm Sat.: 8am - 12 noon

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KCP Sportsman Guide

Scholarship Recipient The loud and proud fightin’ Texas Aggie finished her first year. Danielle Gerardo, former student of Brackett High School, Class of ‘17 made it successfully through her first year with a GPA of 3.4. She completed 32 credit hours there which now puts her into her junior year at The University of Texas A&M University, College Station.

Whoop! Danielle is majoring in Biology.

For Danielle’s first year in College Station, she made it a point to be a redass ag and attend all that the school couldn’t be prouder of like football, baseball, basketball, school events and so much more. During her first year, she also worked in a nursing home, plasma donation center and with a non-medical home health company.

Now, she still lives in College Station with family and preparing to finish off her last two years in 2019 before she hits the road for medical school!

ock climbing

o

r

on the Pecos River

The Continental Ranch is a privately owned, 4 generation, piece of property along the banks of the Pecos River and 15 miles northwest of Comstock, Texas. The rock along the Pecos River banks is made up of limestone, of much higher quality than is found anywhere else in this area.

Rock and Ice magazine issue #132 and #142 compare the Continental Ranch cliffs to the “fabled French cliffs at Ceuse”.

The cliffs are uncharacteristically tall, however a single pitch. There is an excess of 200 established rock climbing routes with ratings range from 5.7-5.13. (citied James Faerber) Rock climbing at the Continental Ranch has not been allowed for approximately 15 years, until with new generation owners. Late owners, Marilyn and Howard Hunt first were approached by several geologists/climbers kayaking down the Pecos River mapping the topography of the cliffs. Prior to this time, no one every studied the limestone quality and striations along the Pecos River. Several climbers including Jamie McNally and Scott Melcer, placed a small fee in a designated box on the property and would go bolt routes and climb. This continued for 5-6 years until ranch estate planning lawyers advised against it due to legal liabilities.

With a fresh approach, the ranch has now acquired both insurance and a proper business entity entitled Continental Ranch Pecos River Expeditions, LLC. Having the LLC in place allows the ranch to team up with other organizations who also have insurance, to pursue and provide several types of outdoor sports and recreation. Climbing here requires more planning than usual. This amazing climbing destination is remote and requires logistical planning to ensure a safe and successful experience. Visiting with experienced and professional guides

16

is one piece of the puzzle. You need to be prepared personally and realize that following the rules of the landowner is critical to everyone’s safety and success.

Currently the collaborators are: 1.

Outpost Wilderness Adventures (OWA), James Faerber 512-731-7596 james@owa. com (climbing festivals Columbus Day weekend and MLK weekend) 2. Camp Eagle, Adam Betterton 830-683-3532 adam@campeagle.org (climbing and kayaking combination trips) 3. White Star Mountain Guides, Troy Wilson 512655-9764, troy@wsmg.com, Seiji Ishii 512-784-2267 seiji@austinrockgym.com (climbing and rock art tours) 4. RockAbout, Adam Mitchell 512-415-0804 adam@rock-about.com (climbing trips) 5. The Access Fund, Brian Tickle, Texas Regional Director, brian@accessfund.org (assisted with risk management strategies that would allow climbing on the Continental Ranch).

Most importantly, I would like to give a HUGE thank you to Jamie McNally. If it wasn’t for him, climbing would still not be allowed on the Continental Ranch. He has stayed in contact with our family for many years, as the founding climber, and continued to remind us what a unique climbing opportunity we have here. He has guided me though this whole adventure and I can not thank him enough.

The Continental Ranch is also known for one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America known as Lewis Canyon Petroglyphs. Lewis Canyon has been documented by many archeologists and the Rock Art Foundation over many years. We are currently considering offering tours 2-4 times a year based on interest.

We are very interested in other outdoor activities and look forward too many “think-tank” opportunities. All recreational trips are primitive with no run-

Co me sample the world-class sport climbing at the Continental Ranch along the Pecos River!! ning water and electricity and with “pack in and pack out” requirements. “Take care of the land and it will take care of YOU’” For more information, contact Heather and Miles Gibbs, Continental Ranch Pecos River Expeditions, LLC 830-734-2444 hgibbs2@hotmail.com

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Making Texas a Better Place for Pets & People

A Field Guide

to the

Birds of Your

Hunting Blind

A

s you sit at your blind, patiently watching the brush around your feeder for that perfect deer to walk in, or as you

review your game camera footage, you may notice that your corn or water is attracting more than just deer. Yes, you might see a raccoon, opossum, jave-

By: Bryan Calk

lina, hogs, or livestock coming in, but if you take a closer look, a wide variety of small native songbirds take advantage of the free buffet as well. While there

While these may be some of the more common species you might expect to see while you’re out hunting, this list is far from complete! If you have any questions about birds you might be seeing, have photos of birds you’ve seen that you’d like to learn more about, or just want to learn more about birds of our area, please contact the Fort Clark Birders at fcsbirders@gmail.com or visit our website: fortclarkbirding.com.

are many species that you might see visiting (such as Northern Cardinals, Mourning Doves, Northern Bobwhites, etc.), in this guide, we will take a closer look at 5 of the more common and lesser-known species you might encounter coming to your feeder in southwest Texas: Common Ground-Dove, White-crowned Sparrow, Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Pyrrhuloxia, and Lark Bunting.

20

White-crowned Sparrow A relatively small bird, only about 6-7 inches long from bill tip to tail tip, the White-crowned Sparrow is a winter visitor to this region. They are mostly pale gray below with fine brown, gray, and black streaking on the mantle and wings. The most defining characteristic of this species, though, is its series of bold black and white stripes on its head. This is a feature of all adult birds, while hatch-year or first-year birds (individuals born this most recent spring and summer) will show a series of dark caramel brown stripes where the black is on adult birds. These birds tend to flock throughout the day, frequently with other species of sparrows and seed-eating songbirds.

Common Ground - Dove This small species of dove may superficially look like the pale brown Mourning Dove we are all familiar with, but there are several key differences to look for. The tail of a Common Ground-Dove is short, rounded, and all dark, unlike a Mourning Dove’s long, pointed, and white-tipped tail feathers. The wings are also more rounded, and you may see a flash a rusty reddish color from their primary wing feathers when they fly. The head and breast are subtly scalloped, and they tend to not be found in large flocks like other dove species. Unlike Mourning, White-winged, and White-tipped Doves, Common Ground-doves, like the four species in the accounts below, are a non-game species federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Golden-fronted Woodpecker Our most abundant woodpecker species in this region is the Golden-fronted. Birders around the country travel to Texas to see this bird, as it is the only state in the US where they are commonly found. Plain tan below, black-and-white checkered on the wings and back, and with patches of red, orange, and/or yellow on the head, there are no similar birds locally that they may be confused with. Like most woodpeckers, they climb tree trunks vertically and have large bills for drilling into bark and wood.

You may see them hanging upside-down and pecking at the spout of your deer corn feeder, trying to grab a bite!

Pyrrhuloxia Also known as the Desert Cardinal, the Pyrrhuloxia (my personal preferred pronunciation being pie-ru-locks-ee-uh, but anything close to that works) is nearly identical in size and shape to the more familiar Northern Cardinal. The main differences are in the overall color and bill. Male Pyrrhuloxias are mostly medium gray, with variably brilliant red accents on the crest, from the mask to the belly, and in the flight feathers of the wings. Females are nearly solid gray, with dull reddish coloration restricted to the wings and tail. The bills of Pyrrhuloxias are typically pale yellow or horn-colored and more rounded in shape, whereas a Northern Cardinal’s bill is more conical and typically bright orange in color.

You may often see mixed flocks of both species in winter in the brush country.

Lark Bunting

22

In winter plumage as we typically see them, Lark Buntings will appear mostly streaky brown overall, with a swooping white jaw-line and, most notably, large white patches in the wings. These white patches become obvious when, as is typical of this species, a large flock of strictly Lark Buntings takes flight low across the pasture. Adult males in winter will show varying amounts of black smudging in their plumage, typically around the base of the bill, in the wings, tail, and belly. As April rolls around, any adult males that have not yet migrated back north to the Great Plains where they breed will transition into their breeding finery: a svelte look of solid black, only retaining the gleaming white wing patches. Lark Buntings exhibit what ornithologists call irruptive patterns of migration in our region. Depending on climate, food resources, breeding success, and perhaps more, each winter will bring rather unpredictably varying numbers of this species to us. Some winters we will be inundated with flocks numbering in the hundreds, while other winters you might be hard-pressed to find more than five to ten at a time.

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harvest data The Infrastructure to Sound Deer Management

Knowledge of the number of deer on your property or lease is extremely valuable to making correct management decisions.

Deer management is not complicated as we often make it out to be. After all, if you did nothing else but quit shooting bucks, more would appear exhibiting larger headgear.

But what’s vital is to measure the response deer have to management in order to measure success, and at times our failures, and this is where data collection becomes important.

Any sportsmen can recognize a jump in antler quality or increase in quail, but why it occurs is critical to the management decision-making process.

Is it rainfall? Could it be the protein pellet provided, the number of doe harvested, or the number of 26

domestic animals on the property?

These are questions that must be addressed, and the way to accomplish this is by collecting and analyzing harvest and population data.

Amazingly, some individuals recognize the importance of collecting harvest data and will exercise a great deal of effort and time collecting it, such as the Boone and Crockett score on bucks taken, but disregard the age of the animal. There is a right and wrong way to collect harvest data, and shortcuts only nullify the reliability of the information.

All deer harvested on a particular area should be aged, weighed, “preferably field dressed”, and measured

By Bob Zaiglin

based on the Boone and Crockett scoring system, if male. Aging deer based on tooth wear is an accepted practice; however, aging deer accurately based on tooth wear and replacement is not an exact science.

Even professionals are subject to error. Does this mean we should disregard the technique? No--at this point in time, it’s the best estimate we have.

Retaining jaws of known aged deer, if possible, from the particular area being managed for comparison purposes is helpful, but the most important aspect to aging deer is to be consistent. By doing so, the actual age becomes less relevant as data such as antler score, dressed weight, etc. are consolidated into categories (normally called age classes) based on a particular pattern of wear. Once this information is obtained, it can be reviewed, making differences such as body weight or antler score within particular tooth wear patterns correlated to a particular age group more recognizable.

One thing often missing from a hunting operation data set is the gross score for all bucks harvested.

Sportsmen will often measure the larger-racked bucks, but often disregard the smaller, oftentimes younger males. I recommend all bucks, even yearling spikes, be measured. That’s right, there are even differences in spikes. For example, a yearling buck

exhibiting 9-inch-long beams vs. one with 3-inch-long beams says something about the animal’s condition that could be attributed to management.

Management of a quality deer herd is not based solely on a few outstanding racked bucks, but more importantly, the development of those young, often overlooked males. It’s the average within each age class that’s important. Knowing what the average yearling male weighs and scores can be more important than that of the highest scoring bucks as these youngsters remain developing physically thus are more responsive to their nutritional status. In other words, yearling males demonstrate the impacts of high or low nutritional levels more readily than their mature cohorts. Thus if you were to manipulate a particular habitat by some mechanical means to enhance the vegetative component or established a feeding program and wanted to measure its impact on deer quality, young deer are what you want to look at. Mature bucks require less in the way of nutrition because they have reached their maximum body size, relinquishing more towards the development of antlers, thus demonstrate little in the way of improvement to management.

Now I’m not recommending the harvest of young bucks, but it does occur and every animal represents an integral part of a data set employed to interpret management implications.

It’s also important to remember that larger the sample size, greater the reliability of the information.

The average body weight per age class is also required when making management decisions. Field dressed weight is recommended as opposed to live weight, but whichever is collected, do it consistently.

It’s important that all pertinent data of each animal be placed on a unique data sheet. For example a Boone and Crockett score is useless if the age of the animal is omitted.

Nothing crops up more in the conversations of landowners and hunters than rain, yet when it comes

to collecting this information, it is male segment of the deer herd. For often neglected. Rainfall records are example, it has been my experience usually recorded on an annual basis, when managing for trophy deer, a but should be addressed seasonally. minimum of 45% of the bucks should Total annual precipitation is not as be mature. The helicopter is the important as frequency of rainfall. In most rapid means of obtaining this some years annual rainfall is above applicable information. average, yet the highest percent I also recommend that collateral may have occurred over a short information be collected from the time period. By reviewing total anair. This includes quail coveys, feral nual rainfall, there would be no way hogs, javelina, coyotes and bobcats of knowing that a drought existed that occupy the area. throughout some portions of the year.

The most economical source of Rainfall data should be collected on a data is obtained by recording incimonthly basis. dental sightings (windshield biology).

One popular population survey Sportsmen simply record all deer technique is the helicopter aerial they see over a couple of weeks, survey. It represents the most rapid consolidate it, and the resulting sex means of collecting an abundance of ratios obtained are extremely reliable. population data. Information however The use of motion detection cameras obtained from the air is not only exis another effective population estipensive but contrary to popular belief, mation tool. not all deer are observed, particularly Good data to a wildlife manager those older, larger-racked bucks that is like a road map to a tourist. From refuse to run from the aircraft. That reliable information, one can decipher is why we refer to it as a survey, not where they have been and in what census. Some research indicates direction they are heading. that 70% percent of the deer population can Often disregarded sometimes be missed, in the data colmaking every sightlection process, ing that much more young bucks important. Data colincluding spike lected should include antlered males number of fawns, does represent valuable information when and bucks to determine it comes to meathe sex ratio and fawn suring the impact survival. management has The bucks observed on a deer herd. should be delineated further into five categories, including yearling spikes, young fork-antlered deer (1-2-yearold deer), middle aged deer (3-4-year- old deer), mature deer (5+-year-old deer), and trophy deer based on the regional average.

This information can then be reviewed on a percentage basis such as 25% yearling, 20% middle age, and so on to determine the age An aerial survey is not only a population sampling took, it allows the observer to review and critique antler size. class structure of the

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amandan� anch is a� family owned 1600 acre game� ranch 18 miles north of� Brackettville, Texas, right in� the middle of fantastic deer� and exotic hunting country.� The ranch is minimally hunted,� and the number of bucks taken� each year is in a game-managed� manner.Species hunted on the� ranch include, but are not� limited to Black Buck antelope,� Fallow deer , Sika deer, Axis� deer, Aoudad, Texas Dall sheep ,� Corsican sheep, Scimitar Oryx,� along with trophy white tail deer.� Turkey are also abundant at� Pamandan. The ranch has both� high and low fenced areas to� provide hunters with a myriad� of hunting experiences and wild� game to choose from.�

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Seminole Canyon State Park I t is what legends and folklores are made of, the Pecos

(pronounced pay cuss) River, with its beginnings in Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico and some 900 miles later to the Rio Grande River, the international boundary between Texas and Mexico. And everything from wild west outlaws’ buried gold, train robberies, to having a “Hanging Judge” Roy Bean, the novelist Zane Grey, “West of the Pecos” writings made into a movie, and the entrepreneurs William Loving and Charles Goodnight cattle drive route.

When you think about it, everything seemed to either happen on, in, around, on top of or west of the Pecos. Did anything happen to the east of the Pecos? Yes, and to the south and north, too.

Well, east of where these two-river’s join, is Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site, land previously owned

by Eleanor “Patty” Moorehead whom she married Fayette “Fate” Bell who later inherited his wife’s property. Their sheep and goat ranch, was one of many wool and mohair producers in Val Verde County. No longer a working ranch, since 1971 is owned and managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife.

The park’s mysteries are with the prehistoric people that drew pictographs on the canyon walls and within naturally formed open caves or rock shelters. Archeologists use their artifacts to help close in on the answers to their daily lives.

When this culture vanished, so did the meaning to the imagery, leaving the symbols to be open to analyses and interpretation. They have been recorded, studied and theorized over the past 80 years, with many researchers and it is guaranteed that they will still be theorized well into the future.

The only way to gather your own theory is by taking the regularly scheduled guided-only tour to go down into the canyon, is by taking the guided tour to the Fate Bell Shelter. This 90-minute guided walk/two-miles round trip, helps insure the pictographs, flora and fauna are protected and safety of the visitor, the guides know their way.

30

The Pecos Queen Where the Pecos River winds and turns in its journey to the sea, From its white walls of sand and rock striving ever to be free, Near the highest railroad bridge that all these modern times have seen, Dwells fair young Patty Morehead, the Pecos River queen.

She is known by every cowboy on the Pecos River wide, They know full well that she can shoot, that she can rope and ride.

She goes to every round-up, every cow work without fail, Looking out for her cattle, branded “walking hog on rail.”

She made her start in cattle, yes, made it with her rope; Can tie down every maverick before it can strike a lope.

She can rope and tie and brand it as quick as any man; She’s voted by all cowboys an A-1 top cow hand.

Across the Comstock railroad bridge, the highest in the West, Patty rode her horse one day, a lover’s heart to test; For he told her he would gladly risk all dangers for her sake -But the puncher wouldn’t follow, so she’s still without a mate.

Written by Howard “Jack” Thorp while in New Mexico June 1901. Included in a book of poetry published seven years later, he noted, “Written on Lower Pecos… after Roy Bean had told me of this fact concerning Patty.”

The park staff also feel that it brings a stewardship, giving meaning and life to the area, makes people understand why this is a park and why it needs to be protected. These tours are Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and again at 3pm from September to May. As the summers, June, July and August are extremely hot with very high heat indexes the canyon bottom receives triple digits, the 3pm tour is suspended. Tours are subject to cancellation from weather and other declared emergencies. Prices of the tour vary with participate(s) age: ages 13/adult is $8, ages 5-12 is $5, ages 4/under are free.

The visitor should give themselves plenty of time to view the exhibits before or if unable to join the tour. It makes the area come to “life” with life-size diorama. A large 12 foot by 12 foot reproduction of another pictograph site, Panther Cave, although it is on park property, the only access is by your private boat (park does not offer tours). A ¼ portion of Fate Bell Shelter is depicted with a prehistoric family’s daily life with tools used for their survival. The section with the Southern Pacific Railroad tell of the early construction and a portion of this rail system can be viewed along the park road to the campground. More recent of the area’s historical era shows displays raising livestock and ranching, Along with the wool and mohair textile industry. The newest of the permanent exhibit tells of the canyon’s name, one the U.S. Military Detachments, known as the Seminole Negro Indian Scouts.

Included in the park entry/use fee ($5) per person ages 13/adult & children 12 under are free, can hike or mountain bike the over 10 miles of multiuse trails. Make sure to grab a map from the Headquarters Building.

Overnight stays are welcome in the designated campground, 23 water and 30 amp electric ($20 per night), shared-water site ($14 per night) and 13 tent/rv-no services site ($8 per night). There is a rv dump station located by the Restroom/Shower Building centrally located in campground.

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It is best to call the park at (432) 292-4464 to get real time information, such as complete campsites description and prices, trail conditions and more tour information; to go the parks website www.tpwd..state.tx.us and click on the Events button.

By the way, according to Mrs. Eleanor Moorhead-Bell, she “led the pony across the bridge but never rode across the structure”.

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Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offers available on New John Deere Gator Utility Vehicles and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars. *Manufacturer’s estimate of power (ISO) per 97/68/EC.

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Wild Taming the Ingredients

1 pound Ground Hot Italian sausage 1 large onion, diced 1 medium sweet red pepper, diced 2 pounds venison steak, cut into 1-1/2-inch cubes 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth 1/4 cup tomato paste 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley Hot cooked rice, optional

Venison Chili con Carne Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, cook the sausage, onion and red pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain and set aside.

2. In the same pan, brown venison in oil; drain. Add the tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, cumin, chili powder, oregano, pepper flakes, salt, pepper and sausage mixture.

Simmer, uncovered, for 1 to 1-1/2 hours or until venison is tender. Stir in parsley. Serve with rice if desired.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 1 hour Makes 6 servings

Quail with Mushroom Sauce Ingredients

2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms 1 small onion, sliced 4 tablespoons butter, divided 1 pound boneless quail breasts or boneless skinless chicken breast halves 3 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/4 to 1/2 cup whole milk 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs, toasted Prep/Total Time: 30 min Makes 4 servings

34

Directions

1. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and onion in 2 tablespoons butter.

Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter; sauté quail over medium heat for 8 minutes on each side or until juices run clear.

2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat and stir cream cheese and milk over low heat until smooth. Stir in sautéed mushrooms and onion.

Sprinkle bread crumbs over both sides of quail; serve with mushroom sauce.

Wild Taming the

Pasta Pizza Venison Bake

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni 1 pound ground venison 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 can (16 ounces) pizza sauce 1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the venison, salt and pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain if necessary.

3. Drain the macaroni; place half in a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Top with half of the venison, pizza sauce, mushrooms and cheese. Repeat layers. Cover and bake at 350° for 15 minutes. Uncover; bake 10 minutes longer or until heated through and cheese is melted.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Makes 6 servings

Venison Cabbage Rolls Ingredients

8 large cabbage leaves 1 pound ground venison 1 medium onion, chopped 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided 2 cups uncooked instant brown rice 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Makes 4 servings

Directions

1. In a large pot of boiling water, cook cabbage leaves for 3 minutes; drain and set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, cook venison, onion, salt and nutmeg until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce. Place 1/3 cup meat mixture on each cabbage leaf; fold in sides.

Starting at an unfolded edge, roll up completely to enclose filling.

2. Cook rice according to package directions; stir in remaining tomato sauce. Transfer to a large skillet; add cabbage rolls. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese; heat until cheese begins to melt.

1

Field Dressing A Deer

Insert your knife point under the hide only and make one long, straight incision up the belly. The natural tautness of the hide will cause the skin and hair to pull away, giving you unobstructed access to the abdominal muscle tissues.

4 Using a saw, large knife or small axe and sledgehammer, open the chest cavity by separating the rib cage. This will allow easier removal of the heart and lungs.

7 Using a saw, large knife or small axe and sledgehammer, open the pelvis to ease removing the organs. Lay the bulk of the organs outside the carcass.

Guide the lower intestine through the pelvic opening, then sever the anus and sphincter muscle from the carcass.

2

Using short, shallow, slicing strokes, open the body cavity by cutting the skin, fat and abdominal muscle tissue.

As the tissue separates, use your fingers to enlarge the abdominal opening until you can fit your hands into the body cavity.

5 Severing the windpipe will make it easier to remove the stomach and lungs.

3

If you wish to have your deer head mounted, stop the incision at the bottom of the rib cage. Otherwise, continue the opening all the way to the fleshy, hollow junction of the neck and chest.

6 Carefully sever the connective tissue holding the interior organs to the diaphragm, and pull the entire mass of organs back toward the pelvic opening.

8

Prop body cavity open with sticks and cool quickly by hanging with head up in a shady, airy place. It would be ideal to let it hang this way for about an hour before moving it to camp or car.

A piece of cloth wrapped around the carcass will keep out flies and dirt as you drag it out of the woods or transport it. The carcass should be dragged or carted out of the woods and not carried on your shoulders. A deer on the shoulders could invite a shot by another hunter.

Info and illustrations courtesy of www.weather.com.

Caping for a Shoulder Mount Image 2

Image 3

Image 1

* With a sharp knife slit the hide circling the body behind the shoulder at approximately the mid-way point of the rib cage behind the front legs.

Slit the skin around the legs just above the knees ( Image 1). An additional slit will be needed from the back of the leg and joining the body cut behind the legs (Image 2); There is a ridge of hair on the back of the legs making it easy to follow up the leg, just be sure to stay out of the armpit region. (You may also tube skin the legs and let the taxidermist make the slit.)

* Peel the skin forward up to the ears and jaw exposing the head/neck junction. Cut into the neck approximately three inches down from this junction. Circle the neck cutting down to the spinal column (Image 3). After this cut is complete, grasp the antler bases and twist the head off the neck. This should allow the hide to be rolled up and put in a freezer until delivered to a taxidermist. These cuts should allow plenty of hide for the taxidermist to work with in mounting. Remember, the taxidermist can cut off excess hide but he can’t add what he doesn’t have.

Note: Caping the face should be left for the taxidermist. Properly skinning the delicate nose, mouth, eyes and ears is invaluable toward producing a quality mount. Sometimes it may be necessary to cape the face so that the hide can be frozen without the antlers, such as with a moose or elk. If this happens, make a “Y” incision along the back of the cape on up to the back of the antler burrs. Be careful caping around the burrs, keeping the knife blade as close to the skull as possible. Be sure to cut the ear butts close to the skull. Leave eyelids and lachrymal (eye) glands intact on cape, leave as much nose cartilage attached to the cape and obtain as much of the gums as possible. Once caped off the skull, the hide should be folded skin to skin and rolled into a ball, placed into a bag as air tight as possible and then placed in a freezer.

The antlers can then be cut from the skull (Image 4). Deliver cape and antlers to a taxidermist as soon as possible.

Image 4

37

Amistad Final Destination

G

rowing up in the outdoors, Ray Hanselman, a local profes-

sional fisherman and fishing guide, spent 2018 fishing the highest level of professional bass fishing tournaments--the BASS Bassmaster Elite Series. “I have been a tournament fisherman my whole life and worked my way through the semi-pro ranks even qualifying a few other times to fish at the pro level before, but the timing wasn’t right until this year.” Through all these years chasing tournament glory, he has been able to fish most of the famous bodies of water in the United States. In 2018 alone, Ray traveled from states such as Alabama to Wisconsin and New York and back. Comparing Amistad to the rest of the lakes in the nation, Ray feels we have it good right here in our own back yard.

He was born in San Antonio and raised in Del Rio since the mid 70’s. His father was, and still is, an addicted fisherman, so he came by that part honest. “He started taking me fishing I believe at age 3, and I never looked back growing up, fishing every tournament we could enter.” When he got older, probably starting in the 8th grade, his friends invited him to start going on camping trips at Lake Amistad. Back then, he tells of stories of how their parents would let them camp by themselves over weekends during the school year and several days at a time during the summer only to come in for supplies and to mow the grass. “We had Jon boats that were impressively rigged for bass fishing, and catfishing. Now those stories could fill a 500-page book. Looking back, those years were probably the most memorable and educational growing up. Most of all, it taught me that I wanted to have a career in the outdoors.”

“One of my closest friend’s dads growing up was a legendary striper and catfish guide here on Amistad. Some of his friends fishing guides were hunting guides in the winter also, so I got to see how that all worked, and to say the least, I was very intrigued. I thought to myself, “Wow! I can make a living outdoors, while mastering my craft as a bass fisherman; that’s the deal for me!” So, after graduating Del Rio High School in 1990, Ray went to TSTC and got a degree in Mechanical Engineering, which really solidified his desire to pursue a career in the outdoors and follow a dream of becoming a professional tournament angler. In 1993 he went to Houston to guide school to get his Coast Guard Captain License. (Lake Amistad being a National Park requires guides to have their Coast Guard Capt. License.)

38

Fast forward 25 years, and Ray has made a career out of Ray Hanselman’s Outdoors and lives in Del Rio with his wife Misty and two boys: Mason, 10 and Miles, 7.

Ray Hanselman’s Outdoors is comprised now of a few more job titles: professional fishing angler and guide, hunting outfitter, and about 10 years ago he added ranch realtor to the list as a realtor with Meek Ranch Sales. Through the business, he is involved also as a hunting ranch consultant of sorts where he helps set up ranches for hunting and all that entails-- such as management plans, animal capture and purchase, as well as predator control for mainly wild hogs.

It also involves finding land owners’ lease hunters and hunters finding ranches to lease.

Throughout his extensive travels to some of the best and most scenic lakes in the country, he finds himself appreciating his home Lake Amistad even more. “Not to knock any of the rest of them, they all have their high points… most all lakes will have at least one if not several items on my top 10 list of what makes a great destination lake.

But Lake Amistad right here in Del Rio located in Val Verde County, Texas hits all 10 points with a hammer.”

He compared multiple aspects of the lakes and surrounding areas to reach his conclusions:

1st point

The fishery and tributaries Amistad has been ranked as high as #1 on the top 100 list of bass fisheries a few times in recent years. As all lakes do, it cycles, especially the bass fishing, which is probably the most popular sought-after sportfish in the nation. Right now, the lake is on an upswing from a few years of tougher fishing we have seen in a while. Most of that was caused by a couple years of extreme water level fluctuations, which normally doesn’t affect the fishing. But, due to the extreme high levels one year followed by a record low level the next, we had no aquatic vegetation for the bass to relate to, which caused them and their forage to scatter and suspend out over the abys in miles of deep river channels in the lake. However, the past couple years we have had a steady enough lake level to maintain a healthy growth of aquatic vegetation, which has bred new life into Amistad. I don’t mind a normal lake fluctuation, I have been

here nearly 45 years and have seen the lake move up and down almost annually. That is one of the reasons the lake was built: to supply water to farmers down south, to generate electricity, and to help with flood control for two nations. To me, when the lake is low for an extended period, it in fact helps the fishery in the long run, because when it fills and covers the new fertile growth on the land, it’s like a boost for the aquatic ecosystem; and everything in the water flourishes. Lake Amistad is a great fishery to learn how to hone your fish finding skills, because it is so diverse--from the clear deep water, to the shallow stained water flats, to the canyons, and the river arms, grass, to hard woods, to rocks, to mud banks…this lake covers it all. Amistad’s lake record large mouth is 15.68lb, and the smallmouth bass are really thriving in the lake, with several hitting the 3lb mark and the lake record almost 51/2 lb. You can go out and target just smallmouth and have a lot of success. They really like the deep open water and the rocky structure the lake has to offer.

Not only is Amistad a great bass fishery, but the striper fishing can be as good as it gets, with some weighing over 40 lbs. These are a school type predatory fish that live in open water and mainly chase the shad that live in the lake. The colder months into the spring are the best times for striper, but they can be found year around. With the striper, you can normally find the white bass, and that is a real family fun sport fish.

Another species of fish in Amistad that gets overlooked is the catfish. Channel and blue cats are another great family fun fish to catch on rod and reel. The big flat head/yellow catfish are mainly caught on trot lines or drop lines with live bait.

Amistad is starting to get crappie numbers back. Some of the anglers who target them do very well in the spring and summer months in the Devils River arm of the lake.

The tributaries of Amistad have become famous the past few years.

There are hundreds of kayakers who float the Devils and Pecos Rivers that flow into the lake. The fishing is remarkable in the rivers, and now there are 2 new access points along the Devils River. The TPWD has opened 2 new parks, so people can get to the prettiest river in the state. The Pecos, however, isn’t as easy to get on, but there are some private land owners who will allow drop off and pick up services.

2nd point The accessibility of the lake & the 3rd point The facilities around Amistad go hand in hand. Since Amistad is a

National Recreational Area under the National Park Service, the boat ramps and access points are very easy to get to and are big enough to handle any busy holiday weekend and bass tournament traffic. They are strategically located to get anglers, sight seers, pleasure boaters, and campers to every corner of the lake. The facilities are second to none with regards to camp areas, boat docks, and the fish cleaning stations.

There is a small lake user permit which helps maintain some of these facilities. The park visitor center is very informative and has some neat history about the park and area. The rock art from pre-historic man are in some of the far reaches of Amistad up the Devils River, the Rio Grande, and the Pecos arms, and there are viewing points at these locations. These sites are some of the best and most famous in the world with Panther Cave being the main attraction that is well worth the visit to put things into perspective.

4th point The nearby population. Lake

Amistad is approximately 10 miles west of Del Rio, a modest sized town, which is 160 miles from any major city. This allows quiet and tranquil trips to the lake. On weekday outings on Amistad, you may only see one or two other boats. Even on busy summer weekends you can always find a cove or canyon to have to yourself. That’s probably the biggest negative point for most other lakes I have visited-- the people are everywhere with boat wakes rocking the lake, even on calm days. We are far enough away from populations that this lake becomes a destination lake, so it becomes peaceful and quiet.

5th point The welcome feeling for tourists and out of town fishermen. Most lakes have this good quality, but some have a negative vibe especially towards the tournament guys. Amistad has always welcomed everyone who wants to enjoy the lake and surrounding area. After all, Amistad is a Spanish word that means “Friendship” in English.

6th point The natural scenery around the lake. Lake Amistad is by far one of the most scenic lakes in the country. That is in part because it is a National Recreation Area, which has restrictions on owning land to the water which prevents the boat houses and docks that clutter the shore line. The high desert look with the cathedral canyon walls and rock art are what give the rustic remote feel to this rugged country. The unobstructed views of the sunrise and incredible

sunsets are picturesque. At night, the lack of light pollution allows the milky way to light up the sky. The water clarity in Amistad is as clear as any you will find, and up the Devils River, some people even say it has a Caribbean look to it.

7th point Other things to do in the area besides fishing or lake activities. The Devils and Pecos rivers above the lake are ideal for kayaking, Seminole Canyon is great for Rock art tours and camping, and hunting on private and public lands near the lake is available. In the surrounding areas you can find the oldest bonded Winery in the State of Texas, the Whitehead Museum for local history, and the San Felipe Golf Course in Del Rio, as well as the Judge Roy Bean museum in Langtry, Ft Clack in Brackettville, and if you are in for a road trip to catch the true meaning of West Texas, you have to see Big Bend National Park-- that’s good for a day or two of adventure.

8th point Can You fish and enjoy the Amistad year around?

Why most certainly you can. The weather here 335 days out of the 365 days of the year are Chamber of Commerce weather, with the other 30 days considered unpleasant weather days. The summer days can be hot, but if you get on the lake early, you can put in a full day before it gets too hot.

The humidity levels are low here, so if you start the morning while it’s cool and heat up with the day, it makes it bearable. Winter here lasts about a week to 10 days annually and can be the best times to fish the lake.

9th point Local support from the Chamber of Commerce and TPWD and National Park Service to sustain the natural resource . Lake Amistad has always received the support from the local Chamber and businesses, because they recognize the importance of maintaining and promoting this fishery and its waters. The TPWD also does its job by protecting the lake’s resources with law enforcement and by restocking the fishery. The NPS reinforces the role of the TPWD and assists with research as well as preserving it natural beauty.

10th point Most important the Food in the area. The dining in the Lake Amistad area is diverse and offers some of the finest steaks, BBQ, Mexican food, and world class burgers. My favorites are Wright’s Steak House for a legendary chicken fried steak, Cripple Creek for a ribeye, Memo’s for it Mexican food, and J & P Bar ‘n’ Grill in Comstock for a one of a kind Devils River burger.

Lake Amistad has hit all 10 points that make it one of the best, if not the best, destination lakes in the country, and I’m proud to call it my home lake.

Amistad National Recreation Area

Fishing Tournament Schedule Amistad National Recreation Area Tournament Schedule Check for updated list at http://www.nps.gov/amis/tournaments Check for updated list at www.nps.gov/amis/tournaments

Date

Club

Weigh in Location

11/7/18

OFT

Diablo East

11/10/18

Val Verde Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

11/10/2018 - 11/11/18

Permian Bass Club

Diablo East

11/10/18 - 11/11/18

Castle Gap Bass Busters

Box Canyon

11/10/2018 - 11/11/18

Universal City Bass Club

Box Canyon

11/11/18

Rio Grande Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

11/17/18 - 11/18/18

Bassin Bunch

Black Brush

11/18/18

3 Rivers Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

11/21/18

OFT

Diablo East

11/24/18 - 11/25/18

Kermit Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

11/25/18

Rio Grande Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

12/2/18

Rio Grande Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

12/8/18

Val Verde Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

12/9/18

3 Rivers Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

12/9/18

3 Rivers Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

12/19/18

OFT

Diablo East

12/29/18

Texas Fishing League

Diablo East

12/30/18

Rio Grande Bass Club

Diablo East Fish Tube

1/18/2019 - 1/19/2019

Bass Champs

Diablo East

1/20/19

Texas BASS Nation

Diablo East Fish Tube

2/2/2019 - 2/5/2019

Costa FLW

Diablo East Comfort Station

3/29/2019 - 3/30/2019

Bass Champs

Diablo East

3/31/19

Texas BASS Nation

Diablo East Fish Tube

4/13/19 - 4/14/19

CBT Charity

Diablo East Fish Tube

4/26/19 - 4/27/19

PBOBI

Diablo East Fish Tube

5/3/19 - 5/4/19

Bass Champs

Diablo East

5/5/19

Texas BASS Nation

Diablo East Fish Tube

41

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830-775-4100

Billy R. Whaley, Jr Owned and Operated since 1990

PO Box 420695 • 522 Hackberry • Del Rio, TX 78840

tpwd graduates

AUSTIN— The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department graduated the 62nd Texas game warden and state park police officer cadet class July 30 at the Texas State Capitol. The class included 23 game wardens and seven state park police officers.

Following their seven month preparation at the TPWD Game Warden Training Center in Hamilton County, the newly-commissioned state peace officers were recognized during a special ceremony that included a keynote speaker, oath of office and commissioning by senior-level department staff and TPWD Executive Director Carter Smith.

The 62nd cadet class brings a unique and diverse collection of skillsets and accomplishments; among their ranks include a licensed attorney, a high school science teacher, a former SWAT team commander, a Gold Gloves boxing champ, and a seasoned marathon runner with more than 30 races under his belt, including a pair of 50-mile events. Several in the class are military veterans, including a U.S. Marine who served on MP Squadron One, the president’s Marine One detail, and a 20-year U.S. Army special ops veteran with more than 120 static line airplane jumps on his resume. One cadet hails from California, while another is from Rhode Island, but the bulk of the class are homegrown Texans.

The duties of a Texas game warden include the enforcement of all state laws with primary emphasis on hunting, fishing and water safety regulations. As fully commissioned state peace officers, they respond to all types of emergency situations, assist other law enforcement agencies and work to educate the public about conservation issues.

All graduates met the state-mandated requirements for peace officer certification, including criminal and constitutional law, firearms, self-defense, use of force, defensive driving, arrest, search and seizure, ethics and first aid.

62class nd

The 62nd cadet class joins a force of more than 500 game wardens and 160 park police officers in the field to help enforce TPWD regulations and carry the department’s high standards to every corner of the state.

These are the new game wardens and park police and the counties or parks in which they will be stationed: Location and assignment of the new graduates:

Mitchell / Howard , Mason Murr; Coke, Randall Mullins; Midland / Glasscock / Martin , Derek Bean; Hudspeth, Ruben Aguilar; Hudspeth, Ryan Svehla; El Paso, Freeman Cones; Pecos, Trevor Pevehouse; Bowie, Nathan Lavender; Freestone, David McMillen; Robertson, Matthew Adams; Duval, Zackary Stevenson; Live Oak, Kally Marbach; Maverick, Matthew Maloney; Starr, Dustyn Jansky; Zapata; Gloria Alcaraz; Zapata, Chuck Daugherty; Zapata, James Ramire; Webb, Michael Hickerson; Webb, Roper Smith; Palo Pinto, Michael Foster; Palo Pinto, Amelia Springer; Kent / Dickens, Jeremy Lindsey; Throckmorton- Clayton- Armstrong-Garner SP Jose Almaza III; Cedar Hill, SP Allison R. Langley; Eisenhower, SP Keegan E. Moore; Tyler, SP Michael S. Roden; Lake Tawakoni, SP Justin W. Sooter; Lost Maples, SNA Erin Trotti; Lake Somerville, SP Richard J. Whitt.

Trevor Pevehouse, a Brackettville young man, who served Kinney County as EMT from 2010 and Volunteer Firefighter from 2009. His parents are Mary and James Pevehouse He graduated Sul Ross College in 2014 with a double major in Psychology and Criminal Justice.

Trevor was part of the 62nd graduating Game Warden Class on July 30th, 2018 held in Austin, Texas. He will be stationed in Pecos County.

Trevor stated, “I would like to thank everyone who has stood by me during this time. I am excited to be starting a new adventure.”

62nd Graduating Game Warden Class • Austin Tx • Capitol Building • July 30, 2018

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife

43

o t ow

H Fillet

a Fish

These techniques demonstrate how to fillet any kind of round fish, such as striped bass, shown below.

Step 1

Remove head. Place chef ’s knife behind the pectoral fin; make a diagonal downward cut through bone.

Repeat on opposite side; discard head.

Tip: Latex gloves will keep your hands from smelling fishy.

Step 4

Trim. Cut away the thin belly portion of the fillet.

While fine to eat, it will cook quicker than the rest of the fillet and is higher in fat. It can also be reserved for making stock.

Step 2

Remove tail. Place chef ’s knife where the tail fin joins the body, and make a straight cut down through the flesh and bone; discard fin.

Step 5 Step 3

Remove Skin. With fillet skin-side down, place chef ’s knife at the tail end between the skin and the flesh. Run the knife slowly along the fillet with the knife blade angled ever so slightly downward, firmly gripping the skin as you cut.

Cut Fillet. Starting at head end, run a fillet knife along the backbone in a smooth motion. (This may take more than one cut.) Cut around the rib cage to separate the fillet.

www.cookinglight.com

new this year

2018-19 hunting

Effective September 1, 2018

fishing

Effective September 1, 2018 Saltwater Fishing • To reduce confusion, Texas modified king mackerel harvest regulations to be in line with federal rules.

• The daily bag limit for king mackerel is being increased to 3 fish per day.

• The private recreational red snapper season in federal waters will be managed by Texas again in 2018. This will allow TPWD to set the season opening date and maximize angling opportunity.

• The 2019 eastern turkey season will open a little later than last year, starting April 22 and closing May 14, to boost bird production and increase population size. Also, the turkey season in Upshur and San Augustine Counties has been closed.

• The South Dove Zone will open Sept. 14, a week earlier than in previous years.

• The possession limit for squirrel, pheasant and chachalaca is expanding to three times the daily bag limit.

• For waterfowl hunters, the daily bag limit for pintails will be increased to 2 during the 2018–19 season.

• For mule deer, a new experimental antler-restriction regulation in Briscoe, Childress, Cottle, Floyd, Hall and Motley counties restricts buck harvest to bucks with an outside spread between the main beams of 20 inches or more.

• A 9-day mule deer general season (no archery season) is starting in Lynn County.

Get the Mobile App OutdoorAnnual.com/app

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Devils River State Natural Area

Texas Parks and Wildlife’s description of Devils River State Natural Area: Fed by numerous clear springs within the region’s karst topography, the Devils River is one of the most ecologically intact rivers in Texas. From the hilltops and water’s edge of Devils River State Natu#TxStateParks #BetterOutside ral Area, visitors can revel in the sight and sound of the river’s waters tumbling over limestone past rugged ridges, canyons and grassy banks, TexasStateParks.org/App @texasparkswildlife /texasparksandwildlife giving life to diverse plants and wildlife. @TPWDparks The 37,000-acre state natural area consists of two units -- the original 20,000-acre state natural area, now called Del Norte, and the newly acquired 17,000-acre Dan A. Hughes Unit. (The Dan A. Hughes unit remains in active design, planning and development stages, limited access is available for paddlers through the Devils River Access Permit Headquarters system and through occasional guided activities) At Del day hiking, primiN Norte, visitors can enjoy Rest Rooms tive camping, nature viewing, mountain biking, horseback riding, swimming, and fishing. There is also a Group Barracks that holds up to 10 people.

Composting Toilet Park

ndary

Bou

Primitive Camping

(Hike & Bike Access Only)

tes #5-7

Showers When planning your visit and activities, please note that it is about a one-mile hike or bike to the river from the parking area. It is primitive and isolated, with few amenities Tentfood Sitesand water and and no landscaped playgrounds. Visitors should bring their own be prepared for a rugged wilderness experience. Trash: Pack out what Dining Hallyou bring in.

PLEASE NOTE

Open only Friday at 8 a.m. to Monday at 5 p.m. No public vehicle from gate at Groupaccess Barracks No paved roads.

22 miles of parking area to river (.9 miles). gravel road into park. Roads Hiking Trail to closure to Camping reservations, feessubject and permits aredue required at least one day before visit. Call Bike Trail flooding.

(512) 389-8901. For additional information call (830) 395-2133. Visit https://tpwd. texas.gov/state-parks/devils-river for more detailed descriptions and information No trash service.

Swimming Pack it in. Pack it out.

Distance Parking • Overnight facilities, including • Del Rio: 55 miles fees, are made by reservation Residence • Sonora: 70 miles only. Reservation number • Ozona: 62 miles Mileage Marker above.

• Comstock: 21 miles • Park closes at 10 p.m.

• San Antonio: 200 miles Hike and Bike • Austin: 280 miles Check out time is 2 p.m.

Access Only • Houston: 397 miles• Pets must be on a 6-foot leash • Dallas: 400 miles at all times and not allowed in Main Trail

SPEED LIMIT

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Primitive Camping

(Hike & Bike Access Only)

Park Boundary

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park buildings.

• Public consumption or display

Dolan y ar C d of any alcoholic is owned, know that landowners re along the Devils Most River isbeverage privately un of the land ek Bo prohibited. rk watch their properties carefully.

Pa • No ground fires permitted. https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/devils-river .9 miles Gathering of firewood is San Pedro to River Point prohibited.

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• Swim at your own risk.

• Please review complete Park

Dolan Creek Road HC 1, Box 513

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WISHING YOU A SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL HUNTING SEASON!

www.riogrande.coop www.facebook.com/rgec.coop

1-800-749-1509 Everyone knows that everything is bigger and better in Texas, and nothing can make you more proud than baggin’ that big South Texas buck. You wouldn’t cut any corners in hunting down your Boone and Crockett trophy, so why “pass the buck” on letting your local electric cooperative turn your hunting lease into the ultimate brush country hunting experience.

As opening day draws near, you’ve come down with a severe case of buck fever (good thing you saved up those sick days). Hundreds of dollars have been spent on gear, and endless hours devoted to prepping a successful season. The cameras have been checked, and rechecked, searching for “the one.” After much thought, you decide on the ideal location for your blind or tree stand‒ just be sure that stand isn’t fastened to an RGEC electric pole, because nothing can throw a wrench into a plan like a 48

power outage due to a broken pole.

Even giving in to that yappy 10-year-old who begs to tag along, won’t put a damper on your excitement. And then there is the wife, who get all gussied up to head to the deer lease (because there might be good shopping along the way). Only to get out to the sticks and complain that it’s too hot (or cold). Be sure to keep your wife happy by calling Rio Grande Electric before you head out, to be sure the cabin’s electricity will be up and runnin’. After all, happy wife means happy life, right?

Finally, the day is here! It’s a cool morning in Co-op country, as you position yourself in your decked out blind. ¬¬In the distance, you hear the call of wild turkeys, and the rattle of the ¬¬feeder as it shoots out corn.

Waiting in your stand with your eyes and ears finely tuned to your surroundings, deer slowly begin to gather. Then, across the sendero, you

see the “muy grande” emerge from the mesquite and cenizo brush line. The adrenaline begins to kick in as you set your crosshairs on the Texas-sized monster.

Proudly, you load up your buck and head to the cabin to show off your trophy and invoke your bragging rights.

Rio Grande Electric Cooperative, Inc. wishes a safe and successful hunting season in Co-op country. Call us at 1-800-749-1509, we are here to serve your electrical needs. Happy Hunting!

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Esta institución es un proveedor de servicios con igualdad de oportunidades.

Don’t Pass The Buck

fcs axis hunt One of my favorite

places to hunt in South Texas brings me to the town of Brackettville, to visit Fort Clark Springs. While well known for its camping and swimming attractions, sometimes forgotten is the plethora of game and wildlife. With a healthy population of white tail and an abundance of the exotic axis deer, over population requires persistent game management. The past few years I had made several trips there, but the weekend of November 11, 2017 would be a hunt for the books.

After arriving that evening and visiting with Matt Blanc, I had no idea what an adventure this weekend would be. He had set me up around 100 yards off the beaten path back in some tall oak trees bordering the creek. As with most hunters, the sleepless night was spent wondering what the morning would entail.

Walking in and climbing the tripod, the nerves had begun to make my stomach rumble. Watching the sun come up and listening to the sound of animals coming and going to the creek but with no axis in sight, the morning hunt soon came to an end. After a couple of hours of a break for lunch and some much needed rest, the routine of a bow hunter begins with the scent elimination process. Getting dropped off for the afternoon hunt was a little more lax. Finding the tripod with sunlight was much easier than the morning (laugh out loud).

Getting settled in, the afternoon rolls on with nothing coming the trail to the creek. With my mind set on an axis doe to appear, the wind blowing through the trees is the only thing making the afternoon pass.

Finally movement appears. Coming down the path is a white tail doe.

There is still plenty of daylight left in the afternoon, so I decide to not release an arrow at the first doe I see. I would rather hold out for an axis doe to appear before I decide to harvest an animal. Everyone that has ever sat in a deer stand can relate to the sounds I was hearing that day. From birds landing on limbs to a silly squirrel scurrying across the dry leaves and sticks behind the stand. More does begin to join the first one and I’m losing shooting light by the minute. Still keeping my patients, I hope for some axis does to come down the trail. Now the shadows from the trees are getting longer as the afternoon is almost over. My vision picks up the white from an axis making its way down toward the white tail does. I begin to get the awesome feeling where my heart rate increases and you feel your muscles begin to tense up. Finally an axis is coming into view but any excitement comes to a quick halt. I pick up on a set of antlers attached to the head of the animal. Being on an axis doe hunt and then having the only axis to make an appearance be a buck, just my luck.

As he nears I begin to think that he is young and still in velvet. He is too heavy to be hard horned. Getting within bow range I realize that he is hard horned and has a vertical looking set of antlers with very heavy mass. Contemplating in my head paying the fee for shooting a horned animal versus a doe. Finally deciding that he’s just too unique not to harvest a trophy like him. As he is getting closer, my heart rate continues to race as I’m studying the mass of the antlers. As he’s nearing the white tail does, they both begin to get skittish.

Every little sound is now magnified

more than ever. In one small area I had thrown a sandwich bag amount of corn on the ground in order to get an animal to stop just long enough to launch an arrow about 20 yards from where I am sitting. The white tail does are in the area meddling around as the axis buck continues to make his way toward them.

That will give me what should be a great broadside shot. With only maybe 20 minutes left of daylight, he’s slowly but surely making to wear I need him to be. Now things are starting to feel like everything is in slow motion as I begin to put tension on the string and go to full draw. As if it was cruelly planned, an acorn falls missing a white tail doe by only inches and sends all the animals in every direction and out of sight. Just s we as hunters have seen so many times before, one of the white tail does ran about 30 to 40 yards and begins to blow her alert and stand there confused. The axis is nowhere to be seen.

The white tail doe comes walking right back towards me to the same spot to finish her helping of corn that was left. Aggravated with the situation, I make up my mind to harvest the white tail doe to bring back to the skinning shed. There is very little time left at this point to make the shot, so I clip back on to my D-loop and begin counting the steps she is taking. She is quickly approaching when something catches my peripheral vision and it’s the white of legs under the outer tree line. I see the unique horns making their way toward the white tail doe. Instantly my heart rate is back up, almost to the point where I think the animals can hear it beating. Reaching the spot I imagined he would be, I begin to go full draw. Bring my 20 yard pin down, check my level and start looking for a spot on the animal to hone in on. Thanking the good Lord above for making the axis hide with spot, I pick an aiming point. For a short instant as I squeeze the release I go blank. I hear the thump of the impact, the sound of tree limbs breaking, and heavy hooves leaving the area. As I follow through with my shot and let my bow fall forward I begin

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listening to see if I can hear him crash in the brush, then silence.

I spend the next couple of minutes playing the whole thing over again in my head doubting myself. “Did I miss?”

Did I shoot over him or was I too low?

Was the range 20 yards or was it 24… ugh I don’t know. Foolish of me, I forgot my range finder leaving camp this afternoon. Now remembering I left my flashlight along side it also, and thinking this could be a long night now, I decide to at least get down and go to the spot where he was standing and at least look for my arrow or any signs of blood before I completely lose daylight. Finding pushed out dirt from where he stood and heading back the direction he entered from. Now dark, I’m trying to look for signs with the only light I have from my cell phone. Walking around in small circles tracking what could be one of my best trophy animals yet, with luck on my side, I locate my arrow with the signs of a good shot placement. Following the blood trail, it led me right to the trail I had walked in on only a couple of hours earlier. Crossing the four-way where Matt had dropped me off, I stopped and waited for Matt to get there in order to help recover the animal. For those that have hunted axis before know the ability for them to continue for quite some time, even with being shot.

With Matt arriving with flashlights and the help of some of my hunting buddies, we began searching for him. He had led us down several more yards as we jumped him back up and he began rustling through the brush once again.

We followed him back to the road where he had ran towards the truck.

Walking up to the front of the truck we see where he had ran right along the side of it. Nearing the rear of the truck we see the silhouette of something lying in the middle of the road a mere 10 yards away. He had taken me on an exhausting, emotional roller coaster ride around the brush to expire so close to the truck where the afternoon had begun. Having hunted axis in the past, I

50

had never seen one so heavy. The mass of his antlers was amazing, I had never even seen anything like it on the hunting shows I watch every week. I was smiling from ear to ear now that I could finally put my hand on the animal that had me on that crazy roller coaster ride.

Now, with a crackle in my voice, I had to ask Matt what kind of dent it would be making in my checkbook.

With a kind smile he said, “it wont be as bad as you think.” Riding in the bed of the truck along side the axis I had

just harvested, still smiling as we were approaching the lights of the skinning shed, made me feel like a star quarterback under the Friday night lights.

Seeing the smiled of my friend’s faces and hearing the “atta boy’s” reminds me that hunting is not about the size of the animal you harvest, the length of their tines, what he scores of, or how many points he has, it’s about being with friends and family and sharing the freedoms we have in this amazing country we live in and with people we love. I love to hunt and hope to pass the tradition on to my children and hopefully soon to my grandchildren. Fort Clark will still be on my list for them to enjoy with me for many seasons to come. Happy Hunting and good luck to everyone one day getting their trophy of a lifetime!

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