Monday, October 31, 2011
Space Blanket
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Saturday, October 29, 2011
Boots for Quads
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I have to be very careful with my footwear , I cannot feel from the chest down and I can easily receive a blister or sore very quickly from any type of footwear. I normally wear tennis shoes but this winter I am going to try this hunting boot from cabelas.
It contains 400 grams of thinsulate and is waterproof, hopefully it does not mark or cause a sore to develop on my foot. The price is certainly right at $59.99, if it works out.
Stay tuned for a shoe review from a man who cannot feel his feet, this should be interesting .... Like a priest being a marriage counselor
Friday, October 28, 2011
California University 2nd Annual Fundraiser Shoot
Hosted by the California University Archery Team. Location - Charleroi Archery Club in Charleroi PA. NFAA Rules and Scoring. 5-Spot 300 round. Fri - 7:00 PM, Sat - 6:00 PM, Sun - 1:00 PM.
Cost is $10.00. All proceeds go to the Cal U Archery Team. Awards will be presented.
NFAA Membership not required.
Come out and shoot. It's for a good cause.
Contact Sam at (724) 699-8745 to reserve a spot.
Cost is $10.00. All proceeds go to the Cal U Archery Team. Awards will be presented.
NFAA Membership not required.
Come out and shoot. It's for a good cause.
Contact Sam at (724) 699-8745 to reserve a spot.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Outdoorlife Contest
Outdoor life magazine is having a contest for Halloween. Can you please log on and vote for me? The link is Here please let all your friends and family know, if I win I get a new crossbow! Thank you all so much.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
2011 ELK HUNT PATCH AVAILABLE FROM GAME COMMISSION
HARRISBURG – The latest in a series of patches to commemorate the annual elk hunt in the Commonwealth is available from the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) or by calling 1-888-888-3459 (toll-free). The patch costs $6 plus shipping and handling, for a total of $7.32.
To order online, put your cursor over “General Store” in the menu bar at the top of the page, select “Visit the Outdoor Shop” from the drop-down menu listing, click on “Pennsylvania Game Commission Outdoor Shop” in the lower left-hand corner, choose “Merchandise” at the top of the page, click on “Patches” in the left-hand column and scroll down to “2011 Elk Hunt Patch” and follow the instructions to order.
In addition, patches celebrating previous elk hunts are available for 2001 through 2010, except for the 2004 elk hunt, which patch sold out.
Wheelchair Emergency Kit
I'm in the planning stages for my Missouri Whitetail hunt and like any hunter I want to include a survival or emergency pack to carry with me into the woods.
But as a person with a disability, my survival pack will be a little different than the average Joe.
100 mph tape, it's better than duct tape and may come in handy to patch my Roho (air cushion)
Extra urinary supplies
Firestarter
Gerber multi-tool
GPS
Headlamp
Hex wrench set
Plastic zip ties
Poncho
Small first aid kit
Snacks
Space Blanket
Water bottle
What do you take in your emergency bag ?
But as a person with a disability, my survival pack will be a little different than the average Joe.
100 mph tape, it's better than duct tape and may come in handy to patch my Roho (air cushion)
Extra urinary supplies
Firestarter
Gerber multi-tool
GPS
Headlamp
Hex wrench set
Plastic zip ties
Poncho
Small first aid kit
Snacks
Space Blanket
Water bottle
What do you take in your emergency bag ?
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
Pa Fall Turkey
This Saturday starts fall turkey season here in Pennsylvania. I will be gearing up with my crossbow and hopefully harvesting a mature Tom in the next few days.
I plan on using the same set up that I use for whitetailed deer. I know some people use special broadheads for Turkey, but I do not want to change anything, just in case Bullwinkle happens to walk by.
I believe the Rage 100 grain two blade broadhead that I use for deer will be just as effective on Turkey's. What do you use?
Hope the weather improves...
I plan on using the same set up that I use for whitetailed deer. I know some people use special broadheads for Turkey, but I do not want to change anything, just in case Bullwinkle happens to walk by.
I believe the Rage 100 grain two blade broadhead that I use for deer will be just as effective on Turkey's. What do you use?
Hope the weather improves...
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Sunday Hunting in Pa
Sunday Hunting Could Earn Pennsylvania Big Bucks - Pittsburgh News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh
An extra 804 million to the economy, sounds like a no brainer to me...
Pass the Sunday hunting bill now!
An extra 804 million to the economy, sounds like a no brainer to me...
Pass the Sunday hunting bill now!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Barrys Bear
One for the Bucket List
By Barry Plouse
After a good nights sleep with the Maine bruins running through our dreams, the guides educated us on the Maine Black Bear habits, actions and how to hunt over bait. We are hunting the 3pm—sunset time slot. Our group of hunters were divided into two groups.
My brother Cecil and I were assigned to guide Dave Jones. We had to drive miles into the baiting sights over old logging roads into the Maine forest. I am the first to be dropped off since I am in the electric wheelchair and would need help to the ground blind. The trial to the ground blind was rocky and my lock down bolt on the bottom of my wheelchair for driving my van kept scrapping the exposed rocks and creating a loud scrapping noise.
My thoughts were every scrapping noise lessens my chances of seeing a bear! My guide and brother helped me to get set up for the evening. I am in a doghouse tent type of blind with only the front window open toward the bait area. I took notice of the denseness of the forest and how it was like tunnel vision to the bait area. My guide Dave refreshes the bait area with their secret combination of goodies and he and my brother wish me luck and leave for the evening. The crossbow and me are cocked, locked and ready to rock!
After an hour or so the nature show begins! Maine red squirrels are about the size of our Pennsylvania grays. They start their chattering and the investigation of the fresh bait. I was out numbered 10 to 1 easily by red squirrels! A raven landed next to the bait area; they are 4-5 times larger than a crow and just as noisy. Then like a drone attack a red tail hawk tries to take out the raven on the bait. They battle as they fly through the dense forest and making enough noise to scare a New Hampshire bear!
Another hour passes and red squirrels are back to the bait area. Without a warning a red tail hawk was back and on a red squirrel clenching it in his talons sitting on the bait barrel. The hawk leaves the bait area and perches on a nearby branch on the blind side of my ground blind. I can hear the squirrel squealing while clenched in the talons until the hawk finishes him off. Am I watching a nature show on Discovery through my ground blind window?
My only concern being in a wheelchair in a ground blind with 3 sides covered is what if a bear comes behind me and wants to check me out? With that thought embedded in my mind, a red squirrel falls from a tree, lands on my head, slides down my back like a bear nose sniffing a new bait barrel! I lean forward throwing nothing but elbows and thinking here we go my only fear is here! But the red squirrel lands behind me and enters the ground blind with me and now I am leaning over pushing the squirrel out! Time to regroup because the magical hour is upon me.
Now the loudest noise in the Maine forest is my heart! I am now sitting in the darkness with the mosquitoes buzzing me. With my heart pounding, I start to recap just what has happen in a matter of the last 2-3 minutes, I can’t believe it; a C5/6 quadriplegic just harvested a 190 lb., 4-year-old black bear boar with my crossbow.
My thoughts turn quickly to thank God, to thank my Dad and thank my brother for being by side in the woods and giving thanks to my lovely wife and daughter for allowing me to keep active in my love of hunting.
A special thank you and recognition is needed to Western Maine Outfitters, without them creating an accessible hunting opportunity none of this could have happen! FYI all five hunters saw Maine Black Bear during our week long hunt.
By Barry Plouse
It all started with the end of the 2009 PA bear season. My hunting friends were disappointed with not seeing any PA bears. Though there are random black bear sightings in our Tri-County area of Northwest PA. We had to go east to have any chance of seeing a bear. Having lost both of my parents within a two year period, I started to realize how short life can be, so I started a Hunting Bucket List for myself, my brother and some fellow hunting friends. First on the Bucket List is a Black Bear Hunt for all of us. We decided to make it a Maine Black Bear Hunt.
Since I am a C5/6 quadriplegic and use an electric wheelchair, we needed to find an accessible Outfitter in Maine. I did the search on the Internet and found one advertising accessible hunting and lodging. (http://westernmaineoutfitters.net) I contacted them, got their references, checked them out and made the reservation for the 2nd week of the 2010 season. This Outfitter goes above and beyond in all aspects of the hunting experience. It was like lodging at a 5 star Hotel while hunting.
After a year of waiting in anticipation, we were over-packed and loaded for “bear” and heading to Maine with a trailer in tow. Did I mention we were over-packed? At the last moment I changed my firearm of choice to my crossbow. After a phone call with my Western Maine Outfitter guide Dave Jones, he said “bring the crossbow, it’s a 17 yard shot!” We arrived 5 hours early and were greeted like old friends. We meet everyone with a handshake and it was returned with an open hand, a smile and big welcome to Maine Bear Hunting.
My brother Cecil and I were assigned to guide Dave Jones. We had to drive miles into the baiting sights over old logging roads into the Maine forest. I am the first to be dropped off since I am in the electric wheelchair and would need help to the ground blind. The trial to the ground blind was rocky and my lock down bolt on the bottom of my wheelchair for driving my van kept scrapping the exposed rocks and creating a loud scrapping noise.
My thoughts were every scrapping noise lessens my chances of seeing a bear! My guide and brother helped me to get set up for the evening. I am in a doghouse tent type of blind with only the front window open toward the bait area. I took notice of the denseness of the forest and how it was like tunnel vision to the bait area. My guide Dave refreshes the bait area with their secret combination of goodies and he and my brother wish me luck and leave for the evening. The crossbow and me are cocked, locked and ready to rock!
Another hour passes and red squirrels are back to the bait area. Without a warning a red tail hawk was back and on a red squirrel clenching it in his talons sitting on the bait barrel. The hawk leaves the bait area and perches on a nearby branch on the blind side of my ground blind. I can hear the squirrel squealing while clenched in the talons until the hawk finishes him off. Am I watching a nature show on Discovery through my ground blind window?
The daylight is slipping away and forest has quieted down. Now the mosquitoes have come out to play and feed! I left my Thermo-o-cell behind to help control my scent and less chances of making noise. As the magical hour of dusk approaches, I am second-guessing my decision of using my crossbow. But I love the challenge and the thrill of my crossbow.
While battling the mosquitoes I look back out of the blind to see a bear silhouette appearing like a black ghost without a sound within 25 feet of my blind. I feel the rush starting, but I remember the guide’s advice to slow down, to analyze the size, to observe the actions of the bear and to not rush a shot. I immediately start thinking of my situation, I am 25 feet away from a hungry Maine black bear in an electric wheel chair, zipped into a ground blind, armed with a one shot pointed stick and miles from anyone, wow this is good stuff!
While battling the mosquitoes I look back out of the blind to see a bear silhouette appearing like a black ghost without a sound within 25 feet of my blind. I feel the rush starting, but I remember the guide’s advice to slow down, to analyze the size, to observe the actions of the bear and to not rush a shot. I immediately start thinking of my situation, I am 25 feet away from a hungry Maine black bear in an electric wheel chair, zipped into a ground blind, armed with a one shot pointed stick and miles from anyone, wow this is good stuff!
The bear looks my way and looks at the bait area, lucky I am well concealed and holding my composure. The bear decides to approach the bait; he goes to the left side of the bait and smells the goodies. I am now looking at the size of the bear since I can use the bait barrel for a prospective and decide he is a shooter bear.
This is my best shooting side of the bait area but the bear does not give up a high percentage shot opportunity. After the bear whacks the rock holding the lid on the bait barrel it makes a loud metal on metal noise and spooks the bear backwards. Now the bear approaches the right side of the bait and stands just like a 3D target.
Daylight has now almost disappeared and my time is running out. I have to readjust me and my crossbow to the opposite side of bait area. While readjusting I create a new noise in the woods and bear looks right at me! I quickly find him in my red dot scope, find the 20-yard dot and place it the kill zone and pull the trigger. I hear the whack, that whack of exploding lungs, the bear jumps and grunts and turns to run away from me. Then the crashing noise through the dense Maine forest , this was the loudest noise I heard all evening. I am noticing the crashing noise is getting closer and closer, then it stops 15 yards from me. Then the next noise I hear is the bears last 3 breaths. An expiring black bear makes a death call that would send shivers up Daniel Boone's spine!
This is my best shooting side of the bait area but the bear does not give up a high percentage shot opportunity. After the bear whacks the rock holding the lid on the bait barrel it makes a loud metal on metal noise and spooks the bear backwards. Now the bear approaches the right side of the bait and stands just like a 3D target.
Daylight has now almost disappeared and my time is running out. I have to readjust me and my crossbow to the opposite side of bait area. While readjusting I create a new noise in the woods and bear looks right at me! I quickly find him in my red dot scope, find the 20-yard dot and place it the kill zone and pull the trigger. I hear the whack, that whack of exploding lungs, the bear jumps and grunts and turns to run away from me. Then the crashing noise through the dense Maine forest , this was the loudest noise I heard all evening. I am noticing the crashing noise is getting closer and closer, then it stops 15 yards from me. Then the next noise I hear is the bears last 3 breaths. An expiring black bear makes a death call that would send shivers up Daniel Boone's spine!
My thoughts turn quickly to thank God, to thank my Dad and thank my brother for being by side in the woods and giving thanks to my lovely wife and daughter for allowing me to keep active in my love of hunting.
After an hour waiting for the guide and my brother, they show up to retrieve me out of the darkest dark I have ever been in. I decided to play it cool and wait for them to ask me if I had any luck. I’m noticing the flashlights coming closer, then the zipper being undone behind me. They ask me if I saw anything and I calmly reply, “Yes, he’s laying right over there.” They quickly abandon me in the Maine dark forest once again and rushed over to where I was pointing at yelling out nice bear, nice bear! Next the dragging of the bear and me out of the woods ends the hunt, but the memory is etched in my mind forever.
I now think that my “Bucket List” might be upgrade to a “ Barrel List”!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Matts Hunt
I have a form of Muscular Dystrophy. I have trouble walking and standing for any length of time. Hunting is not easy for me anymore. So on Monday October 17, I was excited to have the opportunity to participate in a disabled deer hunt at muddy run park. I was told there were eighteen individuals who were drawn. These individuals all had mobility issues and all had a permit to use a vehicle as a blind from the Pa game commission. I arrived at six am and after signing in I was assigned a helper and we were transported via UTV to a hunting location. It was starting to get light as I set up my shooting sticks and got situated. It was sure exciting to spend a morning in October in the woods.
We were sitting for about a half hour when we heard something behind us. We could not see anything each time we looked. Then without warning we heard a loud snort, we were busted. My helper said he saw a tail disappear away from us before I could get turned around. I was not too upset it was still early. Shortly thereafter my Helper said that there was a doe standing in front of us on a trail. I could not see her due to the angle I was sitting at. When I tried to move she ran. Strike two… I was beginning to see a pattern forming here. I was still enjoying the sound of shots being fired by others and wondering if they were successful. This is almost as exciting as hearing yourself shoot. Deep down you wish it was you.
At approximately 7:50 am I thought I saw something move in the weeds about seventy –five yards in front of me. I strained my eyes to make it out and there she was, a medium size doe looking right at me. I slowly lined up the shooting sticks and my muzzleloader. I placed the red dot on her chest and slowly pulled the trigger. At the shot there was smoke everywhere and I saw the deer spin sideways and backward. I knew she was hit. My heart was beating so fast. My helper walked down and yelled back that she was dead where she stood. I approached my prize with a smile on my face. I had a great feeling of accomplishment. Excited does not come close to describing how I felt. After many pictures and phone calls, my helper helped to field dress the doe. I made my way home feeling very happy.
This hunt could not have been successful had it not been for the hard work and dedication of all the individuals involved. I am so thankful for the opportunity that these individuals have provided. Through their hard work it was possible for me and others with disabilities to feel like hunters and to be successful at what we love.
Matt Geyer
Thursday, October 20, 2011
PENNSYLVANIA’S FALL TURKEY SEASON
Season lengths vary in the state’s Wildlife Management Units for fall turkey hunting:
WMUs 1A, 1B and 2A (Shotgun and bow and arrow only) – Oct. 29-Nov. 12, and Nov. 24-26;
WMU 2B (Shotgun and bow and arrow only) – Oct. 29-Nov. 18, and Nov. 24-26;
WMUs 2C, 2D, 2E, 4A, 4B and 4D – Oct. 29-Nov. 12, and Nov. 24-26;
WMUs 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4C and 4E – Oct. 29-Nov. 18, and Nov. 24-26;
WMU 5A – Nov. 1-3; and WMUs 5B, 5C and 5D – Closed to Fall Hunting.
Prior to my injury I had the opportunity to harvest a mature Tom with my compound bow. I would certainly like the opportunity to take one with my crossbow this year.
Hopefully the weather cooperates, I have been seeing a lot of turkeys while deer hunting this year. Good luck, be safe and enjoy all mother nature has to offer!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Elk Trouble in Pa
Trouble on the range Mark Nale CentreDaily.com
The Pennsylvania Elk Herd is a very valuable resource to all the citizens of Pennsylvania, not just hunters. Tourism thrives in elk country providing resources to a struggling economy. Why is it then that the Pennsylvania Game Commission allows farmers to indiscriminately kill elk for crop damage?
I understand that the game commission has limited resources and fencing can be very costly. That being said, it seems like a good investment for the state to assist farmers with fencing that will protect against crop damage by elk , deer and bear and protect the tourism industry as well.
What are your thoughts? There has to be a better way of managing our natural resources than simply saying to a farmer, if elk are causing damage, by all means shoot them!
The Pennsylvania Elk Herd is a very valuable resource to all the citizens of Pennsylvania, not just hunters. Tourism thrives in elk country providing resources to a struggling economy. Why is it then that the Pennsylvania Game Commission allows farmers to indiscriminately kill elk for crop damage?
I understand that the game commission has limited resources and fencing can be very costly. That being said, it seems like a good investment for the state to assist farmers with fencing that will protect against crop damage by elk , deer and bear and protect the tourism industry as well.
What are your thoughts? There has to be a better way of managing our natural resources than simply saying to a farmer, if elk are causing damage, by all means shoot them!
Monday, October 17, 2011
PPG Article
With mobility restricted by injury, hunters adapt to their new conditions
Please read yesterdays Pittsburgh post-Gazette for a great article regarding accessible hunting. I think it's very important that people realize hunters with disabilities can be just as successful as other hunters, if given the appropriate technology.
I am very fortunate to have people in my life that enable me to pursue my dreams in the outdoors . If you know a person with a disability who would like to go hunting , please take them along ! With the right technology they too can enjoy all of mother nature .
Please read yesterdays Pittsburgh post-Gazette for a great article regarding accessible hunting. I think it's very important that people realize hunters with disabilities can be just as successful as other hunters, if given the appropriate technology.
I am very fortunate to have people in my life that enable me to pursue my dreams in the outdoors . If you know a person with a disability who would like to go hunting , please take them along ! With the right technology they too can enjoy all of mother nature .
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Pheasant Hunt
Yesterday I had a fantastic time pheasant hunting at the Fairbank Rod and Gun Club (FRGC) with the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warrior Group. This is the first year for the FRGC disabled hunt, but hopefully it becomes an annual event!
Once again Jeff and Hayes came early to my home and picked me and my trailer up for a great day of hunting. We arrived at the club about 9:00, and met several of their officers and members in the parking lot of their beautiful club.
The club has several stocked trout ponds, a 3-D archery range, a 200 yard rifle range as well as a clay pigeon range. It's one of the best Rod and Gun club's I have ever been to personally.
The wind was kicking up and the temperature was in the high 40s, thankfully they had hot coffee and doughnuts inside the clubhouse. We all gathered there to discuss the procedure for the pheasant hunt, go over safety procedures and get partnered up.
There were several hunters in manual wheelchairs, I believe I had the only power chair. Hunters in manual wheelchairs were loaded into the backs of pickup trucks and I was loaded onto my trailer, which we connected to a 4 Wheel drive pickup.
My partners for the day who would be assisting me were, Jerry, Bob, and Bruce. I could not ask for a better group of guys. We had never met before but were sharing hunting stories right from the get-go. These were my kind of hunters, safe, ethical and understood the real trophies were the shared hunts with family and friends not the animals taken.
It wasn't long before I was at the first of 10 stations, they assisted me getting my shotgun loaded and into position. As the first Rooster flew by in the high wind, I pulled the trigger crank for the 1st time on a pheasant since I was 15. Wow, what a rush... also what a miss.
This same procedure went on, with my new friends loading my shotgun, getting it into position, driving the truck to the next location. Birds flying over and me missing. About halfway through Bob pointed out a pheasant walking through the corn, presenting a clear shot for this quadriplegic! I was finally able to cash in and harvest a pheasant!
The great news was everyone in the entire group was able to harvest at least one pheasant. That's no easy feat considering all of our differing disabilities.
When all of the stations were completed we returned to the clubhouse for a great lunch. Pictures were taken, stories exchanged and e-mail and phone numbers were given to new friends.
It was a tremendous day, hunting with all the volunteers who were willing to give up their Saturday for individuals with disabilities. I would like to thank the Fairbank Rod and Gun Club, the WPA Wounded Warrior Group and Pheasants Forever for a special day.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Helluva Hunt
Ed's antelope hunt!
I was fortunate enough to have been picked to participate in this year's "Helluva Hunt" antelope hunt, in Douglas, Wyoming. The people who set this thing up, Gary and Jane Stearns ( among others), started doing this in 1985 and haven't missed a year since. There are around forty or fifty people directly involved, and a great percentage of the town of Douglas that donate money to help. It feels like the whole town is involved.
Though the hunt is scheduled for the first two days in October, the fun starts on the last day of September when we sight in our rifles AND get to try our hand at trap shooting,, and ends Sunday night at the awards banquet and auction. Judi and I decided to fly to Denver then drive up to Douglas a day early. We spent that day driving around the area to see what was there ( not much,,,, if you aren't into the stark beauty of the high plains).
We were to check in at the State Fairgrounds, where we were staying in the huge dormitories there. Judi and I had an entire section ( fifty bunks by her count) to ourselves. Everything was accessible, and once checked in, everything, for me, was free,,, although we had to pay for Judy ( about $6.00 per meal and $7.00 per night). The food was good and plentiful and the beer was abundant.
Myself and the other fourteen disabled hunters, were introduced to our respective guides on Friday, and got a chance to get to know them a bit before we hit the sack before our early morning hunt ( up at 4 AM for breakfast) the next day. After they loaded my overlarge rear into the back seat of a pickup, we headed an hour north to the section we were to hunt. (each hunter had his/her own area for their exclusive use,,, and when I mentioned section, before,, that meant a 640 acre section).
We saw quite a few antelope on the way,, as well as a few mule deer, tho I saw no mulies during the hunt itself. We went through the gate off the main road, and saw animals almost immediately,, I was told to take my time,, there were plenty out there and I shouldn't try for the first I saw. Good advice,, bad advice,,, who knows,, but we never had a reasonable shot at a decent buck till around 7AM, when near a stock watering pond, we saw what my guys say was a pretty good one. The range was around 250 yards, and since my .270 model 70 was sighted in two inches high at one hundred,, I felt pretty good about the shot. I pulled the trigger and the antelope didn't drop, my guides told me it was a chest hit, a little low and right behind the front leg. I had already jacked in another round, but they all told me not to shoot again,, that he wouldn't go far with that hit ( they could see the blood from there).
He was limping toward a small valley ( what they called a gully,,, that you could have put a herd of buffalo in) and we started to drive around to intercept him and the three does he was with. If you've ever hunted whitetails, you know that a low chest shot just behind the front leg is a lung shot or a heart and lung shot. Apparently this isn't the case with antelope,, as we chased this limping bugger for an hour and a half, never getting closer than about 450 yards. We finally had to admit that the shot wasn't as good as it first looked,,, because it certainly didn't slow him down much.
Having come almost full circle, and back to the watering pond where I first shot. My guides decided that I should give up on the first buck. The decision had no more than been made when we crested the small rise before the hole,, and we saw about a dozen more animals moving more or less toward us. They decided that one of them was worth shooting at,, so,,, I waited for it to cross to our side,, and dropped it at 117 yds. It never moved. We gutted , and packed the buck with ice ( at 8:45 AM it was already 80 degrees) and took my prize back to have a picture taken, then to the processor to be skinned and butchered.
The next day my guides took Judi and I on a four hour tour of the area,, just to look around and get a better idea of what this part of Wyoming looked like. That evening was the banquet and auction. As it turned out,, there were prizes awarded for largest rack, longest shot, earliest kill,,, and as it turns out,, shortest shot,, which my 117 yard shot happened to be. I was pretty surprised to find out that what I won,, was a full shoulder mount. It will be coming east sometime after the first of the year.
Among the hunters this year, were three blind hunters, and one special needs young man. They all filled their tags with the use of special double sights and the help of their guides, of course. In fact,, over the 27 years that this hunt has been held,,, only four hunters have failed to tag. I'd say that was a pretty fair record.
It is my hope, that anyone reading this, who has a disability,, or knows someone who does,, finds the Helluva Hunt website and applies for the chance to meet these remarkable people,, and take part in what surely is,,,, one Helluva Hunt.
Ed Leeper
I was fortunate enough to have been picked to participate in this year's "Helluva Hunt" antelope hunt, in Douglas, Wyoming. The people who set this thing up, Gary and Jane Stearns ( among others), started doing this in 1985 and haven't missed a year since. There are around forty or fifty people directly involved, and a great percentage of the town of Douglas that donate money to help. It feels like the whole town is involved.
Though the hunt is scheduled for the first two days in October, the fun starts on the last day of September when we sight in our rifles AND get to try our hand at trap shooting,, and ends Sunday night at the awards banquet and auction. Judi and I decided to fly to Denver then drive up to Douglas a day early. We spent that day driving around the area to see what was there ( not much,,,, if you aren't into the stark beauty of the high plains).
We were to check in at the State Fairgrounds, where we were staying in the huge dormitories there. Judi and I had an entire section ( fifty bunks by her count) to ourselves. Everything was accessible, and once checked in, everything, for me, was free,,, although we had to pay for Judy ( about $6.00 per meal and $7.00 per night). The food was good and plentiful and the beer was abundant.
Myself and the other fourteen disabled hunters, were introduced to our respective guides on Friday, and got a chance to get to know them a bit before we hit the sack before our early morning hunt ( up at 4 AM for breakfast) the next day. After they loaded my overlarge rear into the back seat of a pickup, we headed an hour north to the section we were to hunt. (each hunter had his/her own area for their exclusive use,,, and when I mentioned section, before,, that meant a 640 acre section).
We saw quite a few antelope on the way,, as well as a few mule deer, tho I saw no mulies during the hunt itself. We went through the gate off the main road, and saw animals almost immediately,, I was told to take my time,, there were plenty out there and I shouldn't try for the first I saw. Good advice,, bad advice,,, who knows,, but we never had a reasonable shot at a decent buck till around 7AM, when near a stock watering pond, we saw what my guys say was a pretty good one. The range was around 250 yards, and since my .270 model 70 was sighted in two inches high at one hundred,, I felt pretty good about the shot. I pulled the trigger and the antelope didn't drop, my guides told me it was a chest hit, a little low and right behind the front leg. I had already jacked in another round, but they all told me not to shoot again,, that he wouldn't go far with that hit ( they could see the blood from there).
He was limping toward a small valley ( what they called a gully,,, that you could have put a herd of buffalo in) and we started to drive around to intercept him and the three does he was with. If you've ever hunted whitetails, you know that a low chest shot just behind the front leg is a lung shot or a heart and lung shot. Apparently this isn't the case with antelope,, as we chased this limping bugger for an hour and a half, never getting closer than about 450 yards. We finally had to admit that the shot wasn't as good as it first looked,,, because it certainly didn't slow him down much.
Having come almost full circle, and back to the watering pond where I first shot. My guides decided that I should give up on the first buck. The decision had no more than been made when we crested the small rise before the hole,, and we saw about a dozen more animals moving more or less toward us. They decided that one of them was worth shooting at,, so,,, I waited for it to cross to our side,, and dropped it at 117 yds. It never moved. We gutted , and packed the buck with ice ( at 8:45 AM it was already 80 degrees) and took my prize back to have a picture taken, then to the processor to be skinned and butchered.
The next day my guides took Judi and I on a four hour tour of the area,, just to look around and get a better idea of what this part of Wyoming looked like. That evening was the banquet and auction. As it turned out,, there were prizes awarded for largest rack, longest shot, earliest kill,,, and as it turns out,, shortest shot,, which my 117 yard shot happened to be. I was pretty surprised to find out that what I won,, was a full shoulder mount. It will be coming east sometime after the first of the year.
Among the hunters this year, were three blind hunters, and one special needs young man. They all filled their tags with the use of special double sights and the help of their guides, of course. In fact,, over the 27 years that this hunt has been held,,, only four hunters have failed to tag. I'd say that was a pretty fair record.
It is my hope, that anyone reading this, who has a disability,, or knows someone who does,, finds the Helluva Hunt website and applies for the chance to meet these remarkable people,, and take part in what surely is,,,, one Helluva Hunt.
Ed Leeper
Friday, October 14, 2011
Who are you guys?
Who knew Accessible hunter was so well read....
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Pheasant Hunting with WPA Wounded Warriors
I am looking forward to pheasant hunting with the wounded warrior group tomorrow. I have not hunted small game since I was in my teens.
I have absolutely no expectation of ever getting a pheasant with my limited mobility but I am going to enjoy being with the men and women of the wounded warrior group. What could be better than spending the day out in the field.
I picked up some shells for my Mossberg 12gauge shotgun yesterday. I plan on using Remington Express Long-Range, 2 3/4, number six 1 1/4 oz shot.
Have you ever used this load for pheasants? Any recommendations as I am clearly not a small game hunter....
I have absolutely no expectation of ever getting a pheasant with my limited mobility but I am going to enjoy being with the men and women of the wounded warrior group. What could be better than spending the day out in the field.
I picked up some shells for my Mossberg 12gauge shotgun yesterday. I plan on using Remington Express Long-Range, 2 3/4, number six 1 1/4 oz shot.
Have you ever used this load for pheasants? Any recommendations as I am clearly not a small game hunter....
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Disabled Hunting Article PPG
Last night I was interviewed By John Hayes, of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette . He is writing an article regarding disabled hunting and wanted to get some information about my experiences since acquiring a spinal cord injury in 1999.
I always enjoy talking with fellow hunters, it seemed like we were old friends as we were talking on the phone last night. When I'm speaking with someone new and the topic of hunting comes up, it's not long before he or she realizes I have very similar experiences in the outdoors.
The conversation becomes less about the wheelchair and spinal cord injury and more about the love of the outdoors . Of animals harvested, animals missed (yes that occasionally does happen), but mostly the shared experiences with friends and family.
Thank you so much John, for advocating for individuals with disabilities . I am looking forward to reading your article!
I always enjoy talking with fellow hunters, it seemed like we were old friends as we were talking on the phone last night. When I'm speaking with someone new and the topic of hunting comes up, it's not long before he or she realizes I have very similar experiences in the outdoors.
The conversation becomes less about the wheelchair and spinal cord injury and more about the love of the outdoors . Of animals harvested, animals missed (yes that occasionally does happen), but mostly the shared experiences with friends and family.
Thank you so much John, for advocating for individuals with disabilities . I am looking forward to reading your article!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
I Love October
I love to crossbow hunt in my action trackchair in the October woods, put the Elusion Mobi-Blind on and I can sit all day. Being a quad, that's one of the things I do best... sit still and wait.
I need to enjoy every warm weather day in the Pa Woods. I have a feeling the temps will be much colder in November in MO rifle hunting.
Sighting In My .270
Yesterday I was sighting In my Remington semi automatic (model 750) .270 with the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors . First I would like to thank Jeff, Hayes, and Gus for helping me. These guys even came to my house and picked me up, drove me to the shooting range and took care of everything.
This is a brand-new out-of-the-box Remington rifle. Shooting it with a Sip n Puff trigger activator from Be Adaptive . The trigger activator worked great, after we installed it onto the rifle.
Now here is where the complaining starts. The same cannot be said for my Remington 270.
This rifle was terrible. First it was very difficult to load the clip and seat it, but the real problem was getting the slide to completely shut.
I probably had 15 dry fires because the slide was not always shut. I am normally a very proficient rifle shot. I can easily have my group of three shots fit inside a quarter.
That's not bragging if you can back it up. I did manage two shots that were touching, but after so many dry fires I began to have target panic.
I was unable to get the rifle zeroed. I am going to have someone completely clean the rifle and lubricate it. Hopefully this solves the issue.
I have a hunting trip planned in November with very little confidence in this rifle. Talk about disappointment!
This is a brand-new out-of-the-box Remington rifle. Shooting it with a Sip n Puff trigger activator from Be Adaptive . The trigger activator worked great, after we installed it onto the rifle.
Now here is where the complaining starts. The same cannot be said for my Remington 270.
This rifle was terrible. First it was very difficult to load the clip and seat it, but the real problem was getting the slide to completely shut.
I probably had 15 dry fires because the slide was not always shut. I am normally a very proficient rifle shot. I can easily have my group of three shots fit inside a quarter.
That's not bragging if you can back it up. I did manage two shots that were touching, but after so many dry fires I began to have target panic.
I was unable to get the rifle zeroed. I am going to have someone completely clean the rifle and lubricate it. Hopefully this solves the issue.
I have a hunting trip planned in November with very little confidence in this rifle. Talk about disappointment!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Second Doe Harvest 2011
Yesterday I had the opportunity to go hunting with Beth, my brother John was out of town so she volunteered to take me even though she is not a hunter. So we put on our camouflage and headed to my suburban hunting area.
We arrived in plenty of time and set up my Elusion Mobi-Blind and adapted crossbow brace. The last time I hunted this particular property, eight deer skirted me on my left side. I moved our location about 60 yards in what I thought would be a perfect ambush.
Around 6 PM three doe came down the hill directly parallel to my left shoulder. If they came to my right they would walk right in front of me. Unfortunately they moved to the left, walking behind me. I thought here we go again, but it was still early.
We stayed vigilant, there was plenty of daylight left and I knew we were in a very good location. About 15 minutes later I spotted two doe feeding on acorns above me and a shooter buck about 70 yards to my right. We had three sets of eyes watching and I whispered we have to be careful, don't move.
It took another half hour for the two doe to feed down the hill. The buck was making a scrape, under a licking branch and never did come into range. The two doe actually passed 12 yards from us.
It was the longest half hour I have ever spent especially since I had a bug in my nose! I let the doe move away from me and took a 20 yard quartering away shot. She literally drop in her tracks.
How do I know it was exactly 20 yards? At the start of the hunt I asked Beth to step off 20 yards and arrange some dead grass in a pile. Can you believe this doe died on top of the dead grass?
We arrived in plenty of time and set up my Elusion Mobi-Blind and adapted crossbow brace. The last time I hunted this particular property, eight deer skirted me on my left side. I moved our location about 60 yards in what I thought would be a perfect ambush.
Around 6 PM three doe came down the hill directly parallel to my left shoulder. If they came to my right they would walk right in front of me. Unfortunately they moved to the left, walking behind me. I thought here we go again, but it was still early.
We stayed vigilant, there was plenty of daylight left and I knew we were in a very good location. About 15 minutes later I spotted two doe feeding on acorns above me and a shooter buck about 70 yards to my right. We had three sets of eyes watching and I whispered we have to be careful, don't move.
It took another half hour for the two doe to feed down the hill. The buck was making a scrape, under a licking branch and never did come into range. The two doe actually passed 12 yards from us.
It was the longest half hour I have ever spent especially since I had a bug in my nose! I let the doe move away from me and took a 20 yard quartering away shot. She literally drop in her tracks.
How do I know it was exactly 20 yards? At the start of the hunt I asked Beth to step off 20 yards and arrange some dead grass in a pile. Can you believe this doe died on top of the dead grass?
Monday, October 10, 2011
Todays Observer Reporter
Letter to the Editor: Bill confounds longtime hunter
This article has been read 65 times
As a concerned citizen, I am writing to voice my opposition to House Bill 1854. This bill was introduced by Rep. Godshall on Sept. 19. This legislation limits the harvesting of white-tailed deer to one deer per hunter each year, and makes absolutely no sense as far as a game-management strategy.As a lifelong hunter, I am very concerned with all the wildlife in Pennsylvania and feel this legislation is counterproductive to proper white-tailed deer management.
Accessible Hunter
Accessible Hunter
Sunday, October 9, 2011
How We Roll
Thank you Dale Lowe for making this cool drawing ! I think this is fantastic and a great addition to the blog! I feel like this is the week to tag one !
Headlamp or Flashlight ?
The days of using a cheap walmart flashlight are over at least for me. I prefer using this hands free head lamp . Flashlights can cost a great deal these days, but the quality has improved a lot. But the cost of this headlamp is nothing compared to this $39,000 backpack !
What light do you use? If your buying that backpack,, your on the wrong blog...
Friday, October 7, 2011
2012 Pa Game Commission Calendar
This 13 x 10 ½ inch calendar features 12 striking wildlife photographs and includes tentative hunting and trapping seasons, major holidays, wildlife tidbits and plenty of room for writing in appointments and other notes. It also provides a brief overview of the Game Commission and contact information for the agency’s Harrisburg headquarters and six region offices.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
That's Why They Call It Hunting
Last night I was hunting a suburban area that I know really well from last year. Being part of a deer management unit is a real privilege and makes it very easy for me to gain access to small hunting tracts close to my house, that are wheelchair accessible.
I arrived in plenty of time with my brother John and quickly set up my Elusion Mobi-Blind and put on my headnet. It was a beautiful October evening and a great way to spend my birthday. I was excited about the possibility of taking a mature doe.
The deer usually move about 6:45 PM along the wood line. The last time I hunted here I was a little out of position, so I decided to move about 60 yards down and to the right. Creating what I thought to be the perfect ambush.
Well at 6:45 PM the deer did arrive, but this time to my left and above me, trying to cross behind me. In all of my hunting experience on this particular tract of land the deer have never approached like this.
I sat there and watched eight deer approach and there was nothing I could do to get a shot. I guess the deer did not read my game plan.
That's why they call it hunting, for sure. It was still a great birthday and I had a fantastic evening watching deer with a crossbow cocked and ready.
I arrived in plenty of time with my brother John and quickly set up my Elusion Mobi-Blind and put on my headnet. It was a beautiful October evening and a great way to spend my birthday. I was excited about the possibility of taking a mature doe.
The deer usually move about 6:45 PM along the wood line. The last time I hunted here I was a little out of position, so I decided to move about 60 yards down and to the right. Creating what I thought to be the perfect ambush.
Well at 6:45 PM the deer did arrive, but this time to my left and above me, trying to cross behind me. In all of my hunting experience on this particular tract of land the deer have never approached like this.
I sat there and watched eight deer approach and there was nothing I could do to get a shot. I guess the deer did not read my game plan.
That's why they call it hunting, for sure. It was still a great birthday and I had a fantastic evening watching deer with a crossbow cocked and ready.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
The Right Gear
It always surprises me when I'm driving down the highway, towing my action trackchair and look over to see people taking pictures. Or like the other day when I stopped at the gas station and had two people come over to say what a "bad ass chair" I had.
I learned a long time ago it really does pay to have the right gear. There's nothing worse than buying something that does not work or causes problems every time it's used.
After all these years being outdoors, I finally feel like I know what I'm doing , what I need to be successful and what does or does not work .
If you were suggesting one piece of equipment to a novice bow hunter, what would it be?
I would suggest a laser rangefinder . Take the guesswork out of yardage estimation and you will improve your shot accuracy I guarantee it.
I learned a long time ago it really does pay to have the right gear. There's nothing worse than buying something that does not work or causes problems every time it's used.
After all these years being outdoors, I finally feel like I know what I'm doing , what I need to be successful and what does or does not work .
If you were suggesting one piece of equipment to a novice bow hunter, what would it be?
I would suggest a laser rangefinder . Take the guesswork out of yardage estimation and you will improve your shot accuracy I guarantee it.
Monday, October 3, 2011
House Bill 1854 Response
I received a text message reply from Sen. Tim Solobay regarding House Bill 1854. He agrees with me and will not be supportive of House Bill 1854 limiting Pennsylvania sportsman to one deer per season.
I cannot understand why any lawmaker would support a bill such as this. It's counterproductive to proper Whitetail deer management. Hopefully the observer reporter publishes my letter to the editor this week as well. Have you received any type of reply from contacting your representatives?
I cannot understand why any lawmaker would support a bill such as this. It's counterproductive to proper Whitetail deer management. Hopefully the observer reporter publishes my letter to the editor this week as well. Have you received any type of reply from contacting your representatives?
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Grizzly Gary Radio Show and Elusion Camouflage
Tomorrow at 8 AM, I will be a guest on the Grizzly Gary Radio Show , please tune in and check out what's going on with accessible hunting this year.
Elusion camouflage will be offering a prize pack to a random winner if you leave a comment on my blog after the show. Just leave a comment and your e-mail address so that I can contact you, if you are a winner. Good luck everyone!
Elusion camouflage will be offering a prize pack to a random winner if you leave a comment on my blog after the show. Just leave a comment and your e-mail address so that I can contact you, if you are a winner. Good luck everyone!
First Day of Buck Season
Today started at 3 AM and like many opening days before, I was awake long before the alarm clock went off. The first day of buck season holds many possibilities, I view it like Christmas morning.
Unfortunately it was really cold today and rained most of the hunt. Today I was hunting once again with Whitetail Management Associates. Here is a great group of guys who gave up their opening day to help me out again this year. Not one of them complained about the rain and everyone did everything they could to get a buck to walk past my position.
I did manage to see several deer and by late afternoon even took a shot at a mature Doe. Unfortunately I did not have quite the aim and missed my target.
I would much rather miss cleanly than wound any animal. I still had an incredible adventure in the Pennsylvania Whitetail Woods. As the saying goes, a bad day hunting is still better than any other day. It's a long season, time to unpack my gear, and get everything dried out. Hopefully your aim was better than mine today!
Unfortunately it was really cold today and rained most of the hunt. Today I was hunting once again with Whitetail Management Associates. Here is a great group of guys who gave up their opening day to help me out again this year. Not one of them complained about the rain and everyone did everything they could to get a buck to walk past my position.
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| After the hunt I transfered out of my Action Trackchair |
I did manage to see several deer and by late afternoon even took a shot at a mature Doe. Unfortunately I did not have quite the aim and missed my target.
I would much rather miss cleanly than wound any animal. I still had an incredible adventure in the Pennsylvania Whitetail Woods. As the saying goes, a bad day hunting is still better than any other day. It's a long season, time to unpack my gear, and get everything dried out. Hopefully your aim was better than mine today!