SUMMER 2014
The South Dakota 125th Anniversary Revolver
Fishing the
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 1
South Dakota’s Best Pheasant Hunt
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Fishing 6
To Fish or Not to Fish That is the question! Bulking up for
Dirty Water Bass Walleye Crankbait Fishing
Make your next trip more than just fishing
12
Fishing Minnesota
14
An Ugly Stik for a Monster Cat
24
What You Should Know About Catfishing Poles
28
16
Catching Ol’ Marble Eyes
Hunting 32
Field Dressing Your
Wild Game Harvest
No one does it like Lee’s Meats!
From the Loading Bench The Mighty .375 H&H—who said it’s not a deer rifle Celebrating South Dakota’s 125th Anniversary The Easy Loader Kennel
Custom Moulding
22
Lake Vermilion
Articles
American Legacy Firearms
20
Iowa Walleye Fishing
Raking in walleye in shallow lakes & rivers
Fishing The Black Hills
at Lake Oahe
10
Catch shallow walleye
The Shallow Strategy
South Dakota Walleye Fishing
50 52 57
Hunting for Guides & Outfitters Know your true cost Preseason planning for
Whitetail Deer Hunting Use Your Hunting Camera Now For pre-season scouting Good ol’ boys & their pick-up trucks
Memories by the Mile Pre-Season Dog Conditioning Simple conditioning drills
Tuning Your New Bow Prepping for the coming archery season
Magazine Team
CEO/PRESIDENT: K.A. Lesnar OPERATIONS MANAGER: Hosea Bennett COMPOSITION MANAGER: Catherine Krause Compositon: Dan Brauer, Jesse Bierman, Rosti Voznyuk
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EDITOR/SALES MANAGER: Jim Rogers SALES: Adryanna Rogers, Greg Heisinger MARKETING: Ashley Boomgarden
Contributors Rick Chapo Joe Demalderis Jim Hunter Heath K Hylton Molly Jewett
Page 4 • D
H
Kolby Kester Matt C. Klein Andrew Martinsen Wade McBride Brett McComas
G
-S
Ryan Miller Bob D. Russell Josh Sowada Adam Wohnoutka
2014
The opinions expressed within areuide those of the authors and do not necessarily akota unting ummer reflect Dakota Hunting Guide. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher.
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Dakota Hunting & Fishing Guide free circulation will average 87,900 direct to home distribution, 10,000 available on racks in Game, Fish & Parks, Visitor Bureaus, and high traffic areas in all four states. Based on a rate of 2.8 persons per household, annual readership totals more than 1,000,000 readers in the four state region of North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota. Total Circulation per issue: 97,900+ 4005 S. Western Ave - PO Box 5184 Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5184 Sales: 605-274-2640 - Fax: 605-335-6873 sales@huntdhg.com • www.huntdhg.com
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By Rick Chapo
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 7
Ah, this old cliché is utterly true, but most people fail to interpret it correctly. Work does not just mean the 9 to 5 drudgery from Monday to Friday, month after month, year after year. Nope, it also means getting out of chores around the home. Ah, I’ll get to those gutters next weekend! Lying is both accepted and expected in fishing. Now, what can beat that? Can you name any other sport where a tadpole can become a Pike? Even the smallmouth bass can be converted into a beast that, if it had legs, surely would have been a relative of Godzilla and stomped up and down the local shoreline with ill intent. Another fine point about fishing is it is fairly straightforward. A fish has three goals in life. It desires to eat, spawn and avoid being eaten. Throw in beer and that sounds like your average guy! Regardless, this makes fishing a pretty simple case of figuring out what the particular fish you are after likes to munch on and the time of day it likes to do that. This sounds complicated, but your local bait shop can give you the run down in a couple of sentences. After that, it is just bait up, cast and kick it. Now I am fully aware of the great debates of our times on the possibilities of using this or that bait. In most cases, however, I’ve found this is primarily done for the entertainment of the debaters. Fish tend to be pretty simple. Fish see worm, fish eat worm. You can go exotic, but it is not necessary. Perhaps the best thing about fishing is the day can be a total failure and still be a good time. I was once on a little river in Northern California when it suddenly began to rain. We were a long way from the car and, of course, the engine decided to take a vacation. We had bait, adult beverages and it was fairly warm out. The only thing I caught was a tree stump, but it was one of the best days fishing I’ve ever had. I laughed until I had tears in my eyes for hours on end. Talk about a great way to burn off the stress of daily life! Fishing has a little of something for everyone. If you want to get serious about, have at it and nobody will bat an eye. If you prefer to just find a few hours of peace, the same is true.
Rick Chapo writes about fishing for NomadJournals.com – Check them out! It’ll be your new source for fishing log books that make unique, inexpensive fishing gifts.
Page 8 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 9
Photo credits: Brett McComas/ HSM Outdoors
Brett McComas with twins
A lot of people cringe at the thought of fishing a lake with pea soup colored water, I’m talking lakes that swallow secchi disks alive. I’ve grown to love this particular situation as most of the biggest bass I have boated were plucked straight out of the darkness. Don’t be overwhelmed, simply bulk-it-up and get the camera ready. The first thing I do is up-size everything; braided line, powerful rods and the biggest, nastiest jig combo you can put together. Now I don’t necessarily mean the heaviest jig you own, but instead the biggest and bulkiest profile. The majority of your bites will come on the fall with this type of presentation. I prefer a 1/4oz or 3/8oz jig which allows me to slow down and keep that lure in the strike zone longer. Matching the perfect trailer to your jig will maximize your efficiency and draw in those big bites. Page 10 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Bass depend on sight, scent, and sound to survive. Taking away #1 means it’s important to heavily exploit those remaining senses. Bass “hear” more so by feeling and picking up vibrations through their lateral line. Bulk those jig profiles up with large soft plastics that move a lot of water, giving off a ton of vibration. Some of my absolute favorite trailers for this application include: Berkley Powerbait Crazy Legs Chigger Craw, NetBait Paca Craw, Zoom Brush Hog or a Berkley Havoc Skeet’s 4” Pit Chunk. All of the above have their own unique way of flapping, kicking, and calling fish in with their seductive falls and water moving abilities. In mysteriously filthy water, bass tend to hold extremely tight to cover. Imagine yourself being placed in complete darkness. I don’t know about you, but the last place I would want to be standing is in the center of the room. I’d be posted up against a wall, specifically in the corner where I know I am safe and have the upper hand. The same concept tends to hold true for fish. The overhangs of a willow tree, dock pillar, transom of a boat motor or log protruding from the bottom provides a security blanket for those big girls. All of this cover may also act as a reference point for them. You will notice that after missing a fish, odds are they will jump right back on your bait as it is dropped back into the strike-zone. This is because they likely tucked right back into their previous ambush point. Often times when fishing clearer water you only have one crack at that THUMP, then they will continue roaming in an unknown direction, in search of their next meal.
Fishing in unfamiliar conditions can cause a sense of anxiety, ultimately pushing you out of your comfort zone. The only way to gain the necessary confidence is by putting in the hours to get yourself dialed in on the new pattern. Keep calm, bulk up, and remember… practice makes perfect.
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 11
Walleye in deep waters are hard to catch since they
may or may not be in the mood for a meal. When they come into the shallows, this usually means that is time to dine. There are many way presentations that work to catch shallow walleye but nothing is quite as good as a crankbait.
Most of the time good walleye fishing can be found when the walleye are in shallow waters. The only exception is during early spring. This time of year walleye have spawning more on their minds than their stomachs. The females come into the spawning beds to lay their eggs and then get out as quick as possible. Males, on the other hand, will often haunt the spawning beds as they wait for the females to come in. They are often aggressive and hungry from their winter hiatus. During early spring, the best presentation is to cast and retrieve a crankbait. Trolling may spook the fish and cause them to clear out until you leave. If you are fishing from a boat, make sure you anchor far enough away as not to disturb the walleye. Cast just beyond where the walleye are and bring the crankbait back slowly. Since the walleye are distracted this time of year, choose a natural but noisy crankbait. You want your lure to get their attention but not scare them off. After the spawn, walleye usually take a one to three week break to recover from the whole process of reproduction. Even crankbaits have a hard time producing walleye during this period. Late spring through summer is the hot feeding times for walleye. Typically walleye will be found in the shallow waters hunting for a meal. During the day they will stick close to structures and weed beds. If depth allows, trolling crankbaits over these features can be very productive. Trolling allows you to cover a wider area. It is also easier to achieve the optimal speed needed to make the crankbait perform at its ultimate level. Make sure that your crankbait is properly tuned otherwise it could go off course and get snagged more often. If weed beds are the target, keep the crankbait just above the weeds but allow it to brush the tops occasionally. If structures are your focus, troll the crankbait along the perimeter. This will catch the attention of walleye hiding in the structure as well as any hanging out on the edges. Walleye can be found in the shallows any time of day but the peak times are from dusk until dawn. Most anglers find that nighttime fishing is the best time to haul in walleye. When walleye come into the shallows, they can get more skittish than a cat next to a bathtub of water. Page 12 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Walleye in shallow waters provide some unique
challenges. Although they are typically actively feeding, they can spook easier. Knowing the best way to present your crankbait can help you successfully crank through the walleye.
By Andrew Martinsen
Sometimes casting from the shore or wading is the best way to approach walleye. If you choose to wade in, go slowly until you are close enough to make a good cast. Then stand still and give the fish time to get over the intrusion. Ten to fifteen minutes is usually sufficient enough. Since light is lessening, you may want to opt for crankbaits that have a little more flash and flare. Keep the overall colors natural unless the water is on the murky side. Since walleye will be more aggressive feeders, you can speed up your retrieval. Try to vary the momentum in order to make the lure look like an easier target.
Andrew Martinsen is a walleye fishing fanatic. His multimedia Walleye Fishing Secrets course has helped thousands of North American anglers catch more and bigger walleye. Check it out his website at www.walleyefishingsecrets.com! Huntdhg.com
Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 13
Walleye fishing strategies are an important step to success, because without effective strategies you may end up going home empty handed and missing out on some great fish. Strategies you use should depend on the waters being fished and the specific conditions present. Fishing a shallow lake requires a good strategy. Because the lake is shallow all the way across, there are fewer places for the fish to hang out, and this makes it easier to find them. The darker waters in these lakes provide cover for the Walleye, and this means that you may find the fish in water as shallow as a few feet. Locating water in shallow lakes means using a strategy that does not include speed, because of the ten horsepower limit. Trolling along the shoreline can help you locate shelves that jut out into the lake, and these are prime areas for both bait fish and Walleye. Look for shelves that are at the most ten feet deep. Use either a jig or a crankbait, and make sure to keep your boat within casting range and avoid drifting too far. Precision boat control is important in this situation. Shelves which have active Walleye populations will result in some action, and this will let you know you are in the right spot. If crankbaits are not getting results, try switching to a jig and minnow presentation. This may prove successful when earlier efforts and presentations have failed. A jig that weighs between one sixteenth and one
eighth of an ounce is most effective. Trolling a river that has a current around eight miles an hour and is between fifteen and twenty five foot deep requires a strategy created just for this situation. Set your speed according to the clarity of the water. If the water is dark, start out slow, around one mile per hour. If the water is clear you can start at a faster speed. Planer boards may not work in this situation, so you may need to set up a number of rods individually. If you put a small split shot four to five feet above the crankbait this will stop debris such as leaves. Look at what the natural food in the river is, and use crankbaits that resemble the natural food sources. Jigs with twister tails are also an effective lure in rivers with these conditions. Pay close attention to turns and bends in the river, as well as areas where the river bottom rises up and then drops back down. Walleye loves spots like these to lie in wait and ambush their prey. Look closely at areas where fast water or currents meet slower waters, because Walleye like these spots. Troll slowly along the edges of the river, and the results you get Walleye fishing will be much better.
Andrew Martinsen is a walleye fishing fanatic. His multimedia Walleye Fishing Secrets course has helped thousands of North American anglers catch more and bigger walleye. Check it out his website at www.walleyefishingsecrets.com!
Page 14 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Fishing for Some Fun? • Fishing for Bluegills, Crappie, Northern Pike, Perch & Walleye • Lake Herman State Park & Walker’s Point Recreation Area • Outstanding Spring Goose Hunting • 18-hole & 9-hole Golf Course • Variety of lodging, great restaurants & unique shops!
Madison has what you need to make your getaway a success! Image courtesy of Green’s Art Studio
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 15
By Matt C Klein
Thousands upon Thousands of Sportsman travel to the Black Hills of South Dakota each year and many don’t take the opportunity to see all the great features the area has to offer. The area is alive with thing to do, especially for families. Having a sense of the area prior to making your trip can to the wonders the area has to offer. For Sportsman making their first stop to the Black Hills of South Dakota, there are a few personal guidelines to rule by:
Many of the great aspects of the Black Hills are spread out in each area, but you can drive to most under an hour. Taking a tour of Mount Rushmore? Visit Custer State Park or ride the 1880 Train in Hill City. Staying in Deadwood? Visit Teddy Roosevelt’s ‘Friendship Tower’ or inquire about ghost tours at the Bullock Hotel.
Not every spouse is enchanted by early morning fly fishing, pine forests and granite rock spires, but if you allow yourself to soak up the history of the Black Hills and travel to the natural wonders of the area, you and your spouse may become fond of this area’s offerings. This also includes events in each city - attend the Days of ‘76 in Deadwood or an annual Black Hills Pow Wow in Rapid City to acquire a taste of Black Hills culture.
Get accustomed to driving around tight quarters, steep hills, and windy roads. This comes in handy especially when visiting Mount Rushmore or traveling through Needles Highway in Custer State Park. During the Sturgis Rally, a phenomenal amount of motorcyclists are here, so being cautious and wary will ensure better safety on the roads. There’s nothing more daunting than traveling on a steep road, rolling through tight-quarter rock tunnels, and winding around single-lane road mazes with flocks of motorcyclists. Many of the roads are open and easy to navigate, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution when traveling.
•1880 Train •Sylvan Lake •Alpine Inn (excellent dining) •Main Street attractions •Prairie Berry Winery
Page 16 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe is an excellent fishing destination on our scenic Reservation adjacent Lake Sharpe on the Missouri River
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 17
Needle Eye in Custer State Park
•Crazy Horse Memorial •Jewel Cave National Monument •Blue Bell Lodge •Black Hills Playhouse •Custer State Park •Sylvan Lake Lodge
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•Sturgis Motorcycle Rally •Full Throttle Saloon (check out the tv show!) •Buffalo Chip Campground (excellent concerts yearly) •Easyriders Saloon •Loud American Roadhouse
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Page 18 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
Motorcycles fill Historic Main Street in Deadwood SD • enjoydeadwood.com
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 19
Kolby Kester
By Kolby Kester
Walleye fishing in South Dakota means one thing. Excitement! With many different lakes to choose from, you’ll find Lake Oahe ranks high as one of the best places to go for chasing Old Marble Eyes.
I remember my first trip to Oahe. It was the famed mid-June period. The trip took the cake for numbers of 16 to 20 inch fish compared to any other place I’ve been. Having never been on the lake and simply looking over the Hot Spots Map, we were able to boat 73 walleyes that first day! With our big walleye of the day being a 25 incher. If you want to catch walleyes as fast as a tuna crew working the sea in Oahe you need to get intimate with trolling and casting crankbaits. No other methods work as well when fish get spread out, are active, and you find concentrations up shallow on certain points.
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For the first half of the trip we trolled leadcore along the 15 to 18 foot breaks. Number 7 Flicker Shad in Chrome Clown was a great producer. Our bigger fish came on #9 Shad Raps in Natural Shad. As the trip progressed lake Oahe’s water levels rose about 6 feet over the 5 days we spent there. This really got the bulk of the fish moving and holding up shallow all day long. By the last day we were only casting cranks to the hot points we found trolling. Big walleyes ripped the rod out of our hands in 3 to 8 feet of water on that memorable day. When you start off a fishing adventure by trolling crankbaits you’ll really get a feel for the big picture and what kinds of trends are happening with the walleyes. On day one we trolled at 2.0 mph for 8 hours straight. Starting up above Mobridge and working on downstream. Covering roughly 16 miles of water we noticed what section the 16 inchers where holding in and what section the 19 inch plus fish were using. We also noticed every time you saw rocks up on shore you caught walleyes, when it was loggy and woody, you caught smaller fish. As the water levels rose we noticed a trend. We started to go 30 minutes without fish rather than 5 or 10 minutes. The electronics also solidified our above the water observations. We got into more fish by shifting up into 10 or 12 feet of water. Then, you guessed it. Those fish started to disappear. You know with water levels rising fish will move shallow. We scrapped the leadcore and worked Fireline behind the boat. Another adjustment that helped in the clear water was to kill the kicker and troll with the bow mount electric. You also saw a preference in color change as you worked shallow water. Natural shad became THE bait of choice. As those last few days wore on we made the process of catching Oahe’s walleyes even more efficient. We simply revisited the hot points with GPS icons on them that we found trolling. The best points were roiled slightly by the wind or in some cases cattle in the water stirred up some sediment. Looking for iconed points with the wind hitting them, or cattle drinking around rocky points guaranteed success! We had multiple big walleyes race up out of 3 feet of water and grab our baits as we pulled them out of the water to make another cast! The action on Lake Oahe is nothing short of fantastic. The trick to fishing a large reservoir is trolling to catch and graph fish, paying attention to what section holds the larger fish, and being on your toes by watching the conditions - not other anglers. By the last day we saw a lot of bored looking live bait riggers still working that deeper water. There are many, many more refinements and other walleye wizardry to apply any time you’re fishing for walleyes. I hope you’ll stop by my website to learn more about the craft of outwitting walleyes anywhere they swim. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kolby_ Kester
Note: The SDGFP has removed the 15 inch minimum length limit for walleye on Lakes Sharpe and Francis Case. Four walleye can be harvested per angler per day. Of those four walleye, only one can be over 20 inches. Beginning Sept. 1, 2014, harvest regulations on Lakes Sharpe and Francis Case will consist of four walleye per angler per day all of which must be over 15 inches. However, only one walleye can be greater than 20 inches. For more information, please visit SDGFP at http://gfp.sd.gov/ fishing-boating/rules-regs.aspx. Huntdhg.com
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 21
By Kolby Kester
If you’re from Iowa and you love to walleye fish, then you know we have some excellent opportunities for catching Old Marble Eyes. There’s Rivers, shallow natural lakes, deeper lakes, large reservoirs, and small reservoirs. Hey Iowa’s got it all! If you can learn to consistently catch walleyes here, you can catch them anywhere. It takes a diverse fisherman to be consistent here. A big part of consistency is fishing the right waters at the right time... At ice out we find the small rivers will produce quality fishing since they warm up first. Iowa Walleye Magazine (www.inlandwalleye.com/iowawalleye) has a listing of all the places you can visit. There are many. As soon as the lakes lose their ice we find small shallow natural lakes start kicking out walleyes in earnest. Storm Lake is a winner for this time of year. For night fishing in the spring you can’t beat shore casting stickbaits off our reservoir dams. A few weeks later Clear Lake starts to really turn on with the post spawn season and you’ll find very good fishing here.
Clear Lake, IA
Page 22 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
As we get into early summer the smaller reservoirs turn on. Actually everywhere you fish during this time will be productive. However, summer is a wonderful time to fish Three Mile, Twelve Mile, Brushy Creek, and Big Creek. Many fishermen make the mistake of fishing to deep in these waters at this time. Spirit Lake is another must visit when you’re looking for walleyes. With dog days you’ll find Rathbun is the state’s favorite. Be sure to ply very shallow, mid-depths, very deep, and suspended patterns on Lake Rathbun. The fish spread out horizontally and vertically during this time of year.
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As the waters cool down in fall you’ll want to check out East and West Okoboji as well as Spirit Lake. Our reservoir fish tend to stay more spread out and these places are jammed with forage. During the late fall period you see the reservoirs really turning on for daytime action, but the night bite in November is something everyone should learn more about.
Be sure visit my website so you can learn much more about walleye fishing in the Hawkeye state. Iowa Walleye covers walleye fishing 365 days a year and I’m sure it will help you put more walleyes in the boat this season. www.inlandwalleye.com/iowawalleye
Lake Rathbun, IA • flickr
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 23
By Adam Wohnoutka
Hammskie • flickr
Zach Byron Northern MN Walleye flickr.com Page 24 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Luke Birtzer • flickr
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 25
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Lynn Ann’s Campground 715-542-3456 www.lynnannscampground.com Page 26 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 27
Let’s take a look at the different types of rods recommended for catching big catfish. As a long-time catfish angler, you already know that it’s how you use the rod you have, rather than the rod itself. For the smaller catfish, you don’t need anything fancier than the gear you already have. But for the bigger beasts, you need a good, sturdy pole. Most experienced catfish anglers would agree that the Ugly Stik, introduced in the early 80’s is the most popular. It’s available in a wide variety of models and is one of the most durable on the market; in fact one angler decided to see just how tough it was. He took the Ugly Stik and six other kinds of fishing poles and went catfishing. The Ugly Stik was the only one to survive the beating he gave it, taking 55 pounds of stress.
It has a graphite core, wrapped in fiberglass, making it extremely strong without losing flexibility. More experienced cathunters might want some extra sensitivity, but this pole is great for the more casual angler. You can get your Ugly Stik for under $50 and they’re available in different lengths. Most of them are also multi-functional for “catch and release.”
Why is it called the Ugly Stik? Because it is. Page 28 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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You’ve invited ten friends over to your house for couple of beers. And the one thing you can be sure of is this—no matter the topic; football, cars, beer or fishing, you’re going to have ten different opinions about it.
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Consider a spinning pole - these are generally five to eight feet long and come with spinning reels for light or heavy use. Very popular for heavier spinning use such as that big catfish you’re after and its long length is perfect for drift fishing. There’s an Ugly Stik spinning rod that’s nine feet long and has Shakespeare’s quick-taper “clear tip” design, foam grips, a graphite twistlock reel seat with rubber cushion inserts. And it comes with the manufacturer’s seven year warranty. These poles can be used for casting, trolling, drift-fishing and tranquil fishing - but be aware of the various added features which can make it an expensive Huntdhg.com piece of kit.
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A casting pole is a great alternative - it has a longer handle and is easier to manage when you’re fighting your monster catfish because the smaller grips on other rods are inclined to get away from you during a fish-fight. Your casting rod generally has two types of reels; baitcast and spincast. You use the baitcast when you place heavier baits and need to achieve super-precise casting across long distances. But the spincast is easier to use and is a better choice for those just starting out. There’s a reel seat in the rod’s handle which keep those reels conveniently on top. But hey, fellow angler - if, like me, you’re going out to hunt those big, bewhiskered, trophy-sized blue beasts, then you need to take a long, close look at the new Quantum Big Cat rods. The rod action is faster than before, meaning that the tips are softer for those tip-sensitive cats like flatheads. These new Big Cat rods still have the same super strong backbone and you’re more likely to haul that monster cat into your boat because that’s just what they’re built for. It’s got those big graphite reel seats and nicely cushioned stainless steel hoods as well as the doublefooted guides with aluminum oxide inserts. It’s perfect for cathunting in strong currents and comes in three strengths - heavy, medium heavy and medium - depends on where you’re planning to go for your catfish date. But as we agreed earlier, the length of the pole is the important feature when you’re casting across long distances. Whatever your plans, remember this; fishing is like romance - the next best thing to doing it, is talking about it. Wade McBride is a catfishing expert. For that next big catch you’ll need good quality catfish poles. For more great information on all of your catfishing needs, visithttp://www.catfishingpointers.com. Huntdhg.com
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First thing to remember is to be prepared to field dress an animal anytime you’re out hunting, Keeping the essential tools in the bag you always carry will keep you from being stuck miles from your truck with meat on the ground and your cleaning gear in your truck. I have a very forgetful friend who had to clean an Elk with the blade of hunting arrow for this very reason. My first tip is to acquire the proper equipment to kill and process the meat. Have a kit that you carry with you. For example, in my “kill kit” are two very sharp knives, one for field dressing and the other one for skinning the animal. It also has a knife sharpener, a few sets of latex gloves, a bone saw, a gut hook, rope and a large heavy plastic bag. I also keep a bottle of water, a small bottle of alcohol, and an old rag aside for cleanup. The more tools you have the better but the entire job can be done with just a sharp knife in a pinch. Coarse deer hair will dull even the sharpest of knives very quickly so more than one knife or a sharpener is essential. The saw is for the pelvis and the sternum and the gut hook is a great tool that ensures you don’t accidentally puncture the intestinal walls. The large plastic bag and rope is to wrap the meat to help keep it clean as possible and to carry the carcass out of the bush when I’m finished. I strongly recommend a thick mil construction sized non scented garbage bag. The perfume can invade the meat. I also recommend a large cooler or ice bag waiting in camp or your truck. Again my advice is to start with a full supply of tools and make changes according to your prey and personal preference as you gain more and more experience. An aspect which any hunter can appreciate and should take into consideration is the animal’s behavior. I recommend that you always make sure the animal is grazing or at rest. For example when antelope run they have so much adrenaline that adrenaline gets into the meat and it makes it stinky and tough. Making the clean kill shot is very important because it is imperative to make a perfect shot so that the animal will bleed less. Less bleeding will lead to less blood that seeps into the muscle so as a direct consequence, the meat will taste better. Once the shot has been made, your next priority will be to field dress it as soon as possible by removing all the vital organs of the animal. Bacteria begin to grow immediately, especially if the stomach or intestines have been punctured, so keeping the carcass cool is important. Skinning the carcass is also recommended especially on hot days to help cool the meat. Take care to avoid touching any scent glands, as meat may be tainted by the musk. Cover the animal to keep flies away and to keep it out of sight of other animals. One other important tip is to plan to do the job immediately. In worse case scenarios such as hot weather or a gut shot time is of the essence to properly preserve the meat as both these situations will rapidly accelerate spoilage of the meat. This article is for general field dressing so if you are planning on having any taxidermy work done make sure you check with your taxidermist before your hunt to see if they have any special instructions. Remember, what is important here is to get it done, not necessarily to make it pretty. On your first attempt it’s not likely to be perfect so don’t worry about that, just make sure you get the job done completely. Basic field dressing is nothing more than the removal of internal organs. Make that simple objective the top priority and you can work on making it pretty as you get more experience. Now once you field dress and transport it out of the bush comes the question of who is going to process the meat. Home processing is something some hunters enjoy but it is not for everyone. Page 32 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
By Jim Hunter
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A wise old hunter once said: “A good wild game meal starts long before the chef tosses a steak on the grill. Skillful hunting can add to the quality of a meal.” In other words, if you plan on eating what you hunt, you should be very careful how you hunt, prepare and preserve the harvest.
Why Pay Someone to Process Your Meat? Most of us know just finding time to get into the field is hard enough. Home processing is labor intensive. When are you going to find the time to do all that work? If you are not consistently harvesting game then it becomes increasingly difficult to see a return on your investment for home processing equipment. Local meat processors are convenient and provide a service for a competitive price. One simple transaction gets you from dead wild animal to tasty dinner. All you have to do is drop it off, pay for a service, and pick up the finished product. You won’t have to deal with disposing of a carcass or cleanup. The near legendary Lee’s Meats & Sausages in Tea, SD says that health and safety are always their biggest concerns when it comes to processing any meat. Most meat processors are regulated by the state government, while Lee’s Meats & Sausages is regulated by both the state & federal governments. They have a federal meat inspector on site every day. Their shop is clean, safe, and up to strictest of code for their consumer products. They have the experience to get great
29350 US Hwy 212
cuts and spot “bad meat.” Packaging is a vital part of processing that often gets overlooked, says Lee’s Meats. It has been my experience that Lee’s Meats package their product better than most folks do. Professional packaging protects against freezer burn and increases the amount of time you can safely consume the meat. If Lee’s Meats can guarantee one thing, it will be consistency. They have a system for everything and they use the same processes, seasonings and mixes year in and year out guaranteeing their customers that they will always receive consistent products with the time tested taste that their customers have come to know and enjoy. The challenge, says Lee’s Meats, is finding a meat processor you trust, who is original, has experience with wild game, and uses a variety of seasonings and spices to make the most of your harvest. If you do your homework, you can rest assured that you will find a local wild game processor who takes their job and reputation very seriously and will do everything in their power to give you a quality product.
Gettysburg, South Dakota 57442
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 33
Lee’s Meats and Sausages is a two-time winner of the prestigious International Silver Medal in the World’s Trade Meat Fair in Frankfort, Germany. Lee’s Meats beat competitors from 89 countries as the first American to bring home this honor. Every recipe Lee’s uses is time and taste-tested. They’ve all been in the Lee Hofer family for generations. Now, those family traditions have been proven the world’s best recipes!
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Lee’s Meats and Sausages has brought home numerous champion and grand champion awards from contests across the U.S. Lee’s even claimed the sweepstakes award for taking the most champion and grand champion prizes in a single year. Lee and his wife Doris began Lee’s Meats and Sausages as a custom butcher shop near Tea, South Dakota, in 1977. As with all the generations before them, their children Chris and Rhonda are carrying on the traditions of excellence in meat processing. Over the years, they
Meats & Sausages International Award Winners
What Sets Lee’s Apart: - Federally Inspected Daily - Year Round Wildgame Processing - Minimum Order 1 lb. Per Product - We Offer Unique Specialty Items - Free Wildlife Museum - Full Retail Meat Store
GAME PROCESSING deer • elk • antelope • caribou • moose • bison pheasant • turkey • goose • duck • quail • grouse • fish
• •
46754 271st St., Tea, SD 57064 605-368-2161 • LeesMeats.com Page 34 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
have focused their growing business on producing quality retail and custom meat products and the art of processing wild game. Along with a passion for processing meat comes a passion for hunting and fishing. Lee and Chris share their adventures with the public in their FREE wildlife museum. Every visit in the museum is a new experience. We guarantee you will see something that you didn’t see on your previous visit. If you are fortunate, Chris may even pass by and tell you a story or two. An adventure for your entire family awaits you in their FREE wildlife museum! They process hundreds of deer annually and their customers know they’ll get only the best quality and service from Lee’s Meats and Sausages. No one has more ways to do it than Lee’s Meats and Sausages. At the home of German Sausages near Tea, South Dakota, one of their many specialties is wild game processing. It was Lee Hofer’s belief that skinning and quartering wild game in the field is a fun and exciting ingredient in the hunt. Following the advice he gives in his Wild Game Processing video, you can skin, quarter and transport your wild game to Lee’s Meats and Sausages for further processing. They process wild game all year round, so if you have some wild game trim still sitting in your freezer that you just never got around to doing anything with, bring it to them and they will turn it into gourmet delights for your eating enjoyment. They specialize in various delicious sausages for all your wild game needs. All of their sausages are prepared with Lee’s own international award winning recipes. Customers know they get only the best quality and service from Lee’s Meats and Sausages. Lee’s time-honored tradition of hand carving every piece of meat brings out the delicate flavors and texture of good wild game. They guarantee all meat processed will be returned in the cleanest, most wholesome manner possible. And they listen to you and process your meat to your specifications. Didn’t fill your tag? Still want your favorite Venison burger? Call Lee’s! They are a full service butcher and always have fantastic cuts ready for pick up for your grill. They most likely have elk, venison, and other farm raised, federally inspected, exotic animal meat ready for pick up. They also smoke salmon, chickens, turkeys, wild geese, ducks and pheasants in their German smokehouse, giving you a delicious hickory smoked flavor. They also Support “Sportsmen Against Hunger” and will process donated antelope or deer does. While you’re there, check out all their unique specialty items. I love their award winning jerky and meat sticks! Huntdhg.com
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A clean, quiet lodging facility located on the south edge of beautiful Minnewaukan on the shores of Devils Lake Nightly, weekly or monthly rates available 210 7th Street East, Minnewaukan, ND 58351 1-701-351-2657 • www.reeleminn.weebly.com Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 35
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 37
Know Your True Cost So you have finally decided to book a guided hunt with a professional hunting outfitter. You have done some preliminary research online and have found the outfitter that has the hunt you want at a price you can afford. Or is it? Like most things, the price charged by the outfitter is not the whole cost associated with a guided hunt. Here are just a few of the additional fees and costs that you must anticipate. Licenses and tags Most outfitters will not include licenses and tags in the fee quoted on their website or their promotional material. Cost for licenses and tags will vary widely depending on where you have chosen to hunt.
Trophy Fees Make sure you are aware of any trophy fees associated with your hunt. Some outfitters only quote the cost of their services, with an additional fee charged when you harvest your trophy. Additionally, there may be an increase in trophy fees as the size of your animal increases.
Meat Processing Now that you have your trophy, you need to have it processed. Be careful! Meat processors have a unique language that you will want to understand before agreeing to let them have your animal.
Shipping If you are hunting abroad, you may have additional fees to transport your trophy home. Due to the bulkiness of some antlers, and because shippers charge based on the size of your package, these fees can be expensive.
Tips Like many service industries, your hunting guides depend on tips from hunters as part of their normal compensation. This is a tough nut to crack. Use your judgment, and if your guide has gone out of his way to harvest your animal tip him accordingly.
Taxidermy Now that you have harvested your trophy, you are going to want to preserve it for eternity. Taxidermy fees can vary, but you should expect to pay $600 to $1,000 for a standard shoulder mount. These are a few of the larger expenses you should expect to incur, in addition to the cost of the hunt. Other costs that will impact your hunt are Page 38 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 local taxes and travel and lodging to and from your hunting grounds.
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 39
What You Should Expect:
GREAT PLAINS HUNTING Now offering yearly membership in addition to our regular hunting packages. Call Clyde or Dottie at 605-883-4526 or visit our website at greatplainspheasants.com
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What should you expect from your professional hunting outfitter? This is a great question and would probably get different answers depending on whether you asked the hunter or the outfitter. Here is my list of things you should and should not expect. Communication From the time you begin talking about your hunting trip to the time you leave camp with your trophy, there should be a constant stream of communication between you and your outfitter. Honesty You should expect your outfitter to be honest regarding the hunt and what you can reasonably expect. If you are going to be staying in a motel rather than a spike camp, that should be clear before you decide to book a hunt with him. Also, size and quantity of game you should be able to harvest. If he outfits in an area where 40” moose are the norm, he should be forthright about that and not show pictures of the 60” moose he harvested ten years ago. Effort You should expect your outfitter and his guides to give you their best effort while you are in their camp. Many of my best hunting experiences have resulted not from harvesting the biggest animal, but from the company of my guide while he did everything he could to get me in position to take my animal. Sometimes that animal is a Boone & Crockett trophy and other times it is a representative animal. But if the guide did everything that he could to get you that animal, you should be satisfied. Organization Since most of your outfitted trips will be in another state or even another country, it is imperative that your outfitter is organized and all tags, licenses, firearm permits, and other necessary paperwork is completed and ready for your hunt.
You Should Not Expect: To Disrespect Your Outfitter Just because you are paying for his services does not mean you should expect your outfitter to carry your luggage, keep your tent stove burning, bring you coffee, or pack your gun. He is there to give you the best opportunity to harvest an animal, not be your personal valet. Chip in, help out, be part of the team and you will find your outfitter and guides will reciprocate with greater effort on your behalf.
45743 260th St. Humboldt, SD 57035 (605) 363-6489 | (605) 366-8198 | hunterspointesd.com Page 40 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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A Guaranteed Hunt Your hunting outfitter and his guides will do their best to put you in position to harvest an animal, but “hunting is hunting”. Hunt with the attitude that the joy is in the process and not the result. Not all outfitted hunts will result in a trophy animal and you have to be prepared for that possibility.
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Remember that your outfitter and guides feel the pressure to get you an animal almost as much as you feel the joy of harvesting that animal. Their business relies mostly on word of mouth, and a bad experience for you means little or no referral business, so most quality outfitters will work as hard as possible to ensure an enjoyable, successful and rewarding hunt.
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211 N Stofferhn Dr., Humboldt, SD Office: 605-363-3933 www.facebook.com/LastCallLodge D H G -S 2014 • P akota
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By Heath K. Hylton Unsure of what to do to prepare for the upcoming hunting season? Don’t let the hunting season sneak up on you and be left empty-handed without getting that big buck. There are several things that should be taken into consideration when planning for preseason. Planning for preseason should actually be an ongoing activity during the entire year. I will explain later on why that is important but first I want to explain a couple of other things. Things that need to be considered and planned in advance before deer season begins Scouting out your property to determine the best area where the deer are bedding feeding, crossing water sources, and entering/exiting areas near open fields. Once you find that area of high traffic then you’ll want to set up a deer stand in that area. I will discuss the best time and situation to scout and build a stand to make your season a successful one.
SCOUTING YOUR PROPERTY Here are four “T’s” to remember: • Time of year • Type of weather • Technology use [motion sensor camera] • Tracing/Tracking [physically walking your property] The best time of the year to scout is during the winter months-early spring, from January to March prior to the upcoming hunting season. Why scout at this time? The movement patterns of deer are based on their food and water supply as well as the beginning of rut and hunting season. Our evasive four-legged friends will begin migrating in the fall, back to that same area that they habitat during the winter months. So scouting in the summer months will not lead you to where they will most likely be during the season. The best kind of weather that you should consider when scouting is on days that there is inclement weather and strong winds. This type of weather dissipates human scent faster. It should be done all in one day to reduce the occurrence of entering the woods and to keep detection as minimal as possible. Another way of keeping detection at a minimum as well as finding out a lot of valid information is by the use of cameras. Huntdhg.com
Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 43
USE YOUR HUNTING CAMERA NOW FOR
By Molly Jewett Hunting season for whitetail deer may seem a long way off, but it will arrive very soon, and avid hunters know that it is never too soon to begin preparation. The successful hunter is one who has done his homework as far as pre-season scouting is concerned and is mentally prepared for the fall hunting season. Ideally, whitetail deer habitat would contain dense thickets for deer to hide or move in, and edges, which provide food. Normally, a deer’s diet changes depending on the environment and the season. In the spring and summer, it eats green plants. In the fall, corn, acorns and other nuts are the foods of choice. In winter, it eats buds and twigs of woody plants. However, environmental changes may take place from year to year that cause deer to alter their habits. A forest fire, logging, or a road-building project, are all factors that may result in animals moving from one habitat to another. Additionally, severe weather conditions such as an extremely hot, cold, wet, or dry season may also cause deer to move to other locations in search of food, water, and shelter. Use your hunting camera throughout the year to record video images that will help plan your hunting strategy. Summer is the very best time to inventory the bucks in your hunting area. During this time of year, the does are busy tending to their fawns and have little interaction with bucks. The bucks tend to hang out in groups of similar age and also, tend to lay low in the hot, daytime hours. They travel short distances for food, usually in the evening and at night. An infrared digital trail camera can capture these movements and give you an awareness of the number and size of animals in your area. Then, when hunting season does finally arrive, you know when to let a small buck pass in hopes that the big one you caught on camera will come by.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/ ?expert=Molly_Jewett
Page 44 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
The use of today’s technology such as motion sensor cameras has vastly improved scouting since it allows you to monitor activity for 24 hours, over a period of a week or more. Placement of camera(s) are critical. They should be set up in areas of food/water supply, main trails, and funnels. A funnel is the lay of the land which provides a narrow or restricted area for deer to pass from one place to another. Funnels can be either man-made (example: a fence line) or naturally developed in nature by other animals (example: beaver’s dam, line of trees, or a fallen tree). Cameras not only allow you to monitor deer movement patterns but also predators/trespassers that may be travelling through your property as well. It’s also essential to walk your property to observe the main trails and figure movement patterns. It allows you to track deer to find the highest traffic areas. This leads me to my next point which is determining stand location. Huntdhg.com
DEER STAND LOCATION When determining location for a deer stand it should be based on your scouting results. You will want to determine and set up your stand near deer movement patterns, food/ water sources and bedding areas. However, make sure it’s in an area that’s easily accessible by foot or by some form of vehicle. There’s nothing like ruining that exciting hunt by having to drag/carry your lifeless deer for any kind of distance. If you are in an area that it is extremely hard to get vehicle access, then you can use a tarp, blanket, or sheet to place the deer on. Then it will make it a little easier to drag it out, especially if you have a buddy to help pull it.
Make sure your deer stand is in an area that’s easily accessible by foot or by some form of vehicle. There’s nothing like ruining that exciting hunt by having to drag/carry your lifeless deer for any kind of distance. Once you find the best location for your stand based on accessibility and high traffic areas, you’ll want to determine optimal height of your deer stand. Usually a satisfactory height for a stand is approximately 20 feet high in tree. This height is tall enough to remain unnoticeable to deer but not too high to cause a lot of interference by limbs. However, if you do have limbs that are in your shooting lane, now is the time to cut those branches back, not the day before the hunt. The noise from cutting back those branches will definitely disturb the deer. So the best times to determine location of a stand(s) are a couple of months prior to the beginning of deer season. By doing so, it will allow human scent to dissipate and lower detection. Try to take one full day to determine stand(s) location instead of going multiple times to keep human detection at a minimum also. In summary, take a considerate amount of time to plan, scout, and execute that plan to have a very successful hunting year. Remember that this success is based on your year-round activity so don’t let your ideas and actions be idle for several months.
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“A well broken in pick-up seat is like the smoothed down checkering on an old shotgun, both remembrances of many good times. Truck seats are also special places for the hidden heirlooms that so often roll out from under them. Like the empty shotgun shell that brought down the first grouse pointed by a young setter whose ashes have since been scattered and washed into the earth with a tear or two. A little rattle under the dash and a finicky AM radio always made for fine traveling companions. Especially with a longtime hunting buddy in the front passenger seat who also has always been a little finicky and who also has recently begun to rattle.” There is something nostalgic about an old double gun. The manufacturer doesn’t seem to matter much, just the fact that it’s old. A new shotgun is pretty to look at, but it lacks personality. That old gun just seems so well traveled and wise. The same is true of a new sport utility vehicle. Even the name, sport utility vehicle, seems so cold and out of touch. Too politically correct, I think. What ever happened to the “good ol’ boys” and their “pick-up trucks?” Old faded trucks at that. Faded paint and random dents seems to talk to us about experience, good times, bad decisions, and many traveled miles. A well broken in pick-up seat is like the smoothed down checkering on an old shotgun, both remembrances of many good times. Truck seats are also special places for the hidden heirlooms that so often roll out from under them. Like the empty shotgun shell that brought down the first grouse pointed by a young setter whose ashes have since been scattered and washed into the earth with a tear or two. A little rattle under the dash and a finicky AM radio always made for fine traveling companions. Especially with a longtime hunting buddy in the front passenger seat who also has always been a little finicky and who also has recently begun to rattle. A truck should be half as old as you are, or at the very least older than your kids. Every kid needs to remember Dad’s old pickup. It should have a nick name like “ol’ Red”, “Rustbucket”, or “The Beast.” Trucks should still be named in fractions. Half ton and three-quarter ton tell us a lot more about the vehicle than the snappy names given to today’s sport utilities. It used to be quite simple. One ton was bigger than three-quarters that was bigger than half. Now all it seems like we have are a ton of options. Options like automatic hubs that have taken away the simple pleasure of stepping into knee-deep mud. With today’s sport utilities you don’t even need to push a floor shift to engage all four wheels. A push of a button or a self-thinking computer chip is all it takes. Page 46 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 47
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Most of my friends drive new SUV’s. Not that this makes them bad people, but the vehicles they bought to bring them closer to the great outdoors seems to do just the opposite. With windows up and automatic climate control engaged, they are just as far removed from the sounds and smells of the outside world as if they were sitting in traffic on the freeway. Driving to a fishing spot you uploaded via GPS has taken away the away the thrill of the adventure and fun of being lost. No heirlooms ever roll out from under their seats. No coffee stains on the floor. No faint smells of oil, grease, or gas. No rattles, squeaks, or bangs. Not even any dust from last autumn’s grouse season rests on the dashboard. They keep their vehicles as clean as a luxury sedan. With the price of one being about the same as a small house, I can understand why. I have been accused of abusing my truck because she hasn’t had a coat of wax, or any soap for that matter, since the first month it came to live with me. An abused vehicle, I reply, wouldn’t start every time you turned the key. It wouldn’t warm you after a cold rainy morning in a duck blind. It wouldn’t take you there and bring you back every time. And most importantly, it wouldn’t safeguard so many heirlooms. There’s the ding in the tailgate heirloom from backing up the trail too fast to load an excited young boys’ first buck. Then the armrest chewed by an eager young Lab left alone while his master sipped coffee at a local diner one early opening day morning. There’s a scratch down the side from that trail that looked wide enough, but turned out it wasn’t. The sun visor still sports a size twelve Hendrickson dry fly, tied by a good friend and placed there as we drove to the next stream one warm spring day. I placed it there for safekeeping. I guess it worked since it’s still there. I can’t forget the logging road dust on the dashboard. Down the defroster duct are some Adirondack black flies. Maine pine needles are under the seats and Cape Cod sand ground into the carpet. When the heater is on, I can listen to the rustle of Pennsylvania oak leaves. And on days when the sun hits the exposed seat stuffing just right, I can still smell the Wisconsin dairy farm. I know that mixed in with this potpourri are the Montana stream bed pebbles and the Maryland salt marsh grass. Like confetti on New Years Eve, the heat ducts have been known to blow a grouse feather or two. With all of the features, luxuries and do-dads added to today’s sport utilities, something has been lost. We lost our heirlooms, good stories, experiences, and most of all in my opinion, we lost touch with ourselves. When we try to improve upon the simple basic things it never seems to work. Remember aluminum Christmas trees? Joe Demalderis is a full time fly fishing and light tackle fishing guide and Charter Captain. Visit his website at: http://www.crosscurrentguideservice.com Huntdhg.com
“A truck should be half as old as you are, or at the very least older than your kids. Every kid needs to remember Dad’s old pickup. It should have a nick name like “ol’ Red”, “Rustbucket”, or “The Beast.” Trucks should still be named in fractions. Half ton and three-quarter ton tell us a lot more about the vehicle than the snappy names given to today’s sport utilities. It used to be quite simple. One ton was bigger than three-quarters that was bigger than half.”
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 49
This magnificent medium bore has been around for more than a century. The prestigious gun manufacturer Holland & Holland saw the need for this new caliber with the advent of the new smokeless powder cordite. In 1912 the .375 H&H was born. From that moment on it made a name for itself from Africa and India to the farthest reaches; where man would travel the .375 H&H would go and no animal was too tough. In the early days the bullet design was from a black powder era and they could not withstand the high velocity of the .375 without coming apart. The early solids helped to keep the new caliber on the right track until proper soft points where developed. Today there is no limit to what the .375 H&H can do; from groundhogs to elephants and anything in between, like the Whitetail deer and the black bear. Many people would say that the .375 H&H is overpowered for such game and that would be true with most of the loadings on the market today. However, at Nyati Inc. we have changed the rules to fit the game. Our loading puts the .375 H&H into a new category as the most versatile caliber in the world. That’s a bold statement from Nyati Inc., but true. If you look at their website, it should be apparent that the loading for the .375 H&H covers a full spectrum of field use. My first experience with the .375 H&H was not what I always thought it would be like. I expected it to hit like a ton of bricks, but after shooting the .416 Rigby for a time, the .375 was my new darling big bore. The more I fired it, the more I enjoyed the pleasant kick. I have been shooting big bores for many years now and when I have an opportunity to shoot the .375 Winchester model 70, it reminds me of my very first model 70. It was only a 22-250 but it was a Winchester model 70 and it could really shoot. Many years ago in the green fields and mountains of Pennsylvania, if I spotted a groundhog, aka whistle pig, within 500 yards, it was in big trouble. I miss those days. In Wisconsin, we can’t shoot whistle pigs, in fact, I have only seen a half dozen in the last twenty years. I lost my thought, back
Page 50 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
to the .375. The loading to convert the Mighty .375 is very simple, as always. I start with Accurate 5744 to reduce the heavy recoil down to Deer rifle recoil. No other powder can ever be used in place of the 5744 for this type of loading. If a 235 gr bullet at 2,000 fps is not a Deer load, then what is? How about a 300 gr bullet at 2,000 fps that sounds like a nice .444 Marlin load but with a much higher B.C. The perfect 30.06 load is a 150 gr bullet at 2,900 fps and it will develop about 2,800 ft lbs of energy. The 235 gr at 2,000 fps will develop about 2,087 ft lbs of energy and the 300 gr bullet will develop about 2,664 ft lbs with 19 ft lbs of recoil, about the same as a 308 Winchester sporting rifle. So, is the Mighty .375 H&H Mag. a true Deer rifle in the truest sense? I think so. If you add all the numbers in the correct sequence you will find that they correspond perfectly to the perfect Deer rifle. The perfect deer rifle could mean many things to many people. A new hunter at the young age of 12 could think that his grandfather’s old 25-20 would make the perfect deer rifle. His grandfather killed many deer with that rifle. Or, maybe the Kansas bean field hunter may think that a 300 Ultra Mag. with a 20 power Leupold scope is the only perfect deer rifle. The perfect deer rifle means so many things to so many different people. My perfect deer rifle when I was 17 was a Savage model 99 in 300 Savage caliber. By the time I was 21, it changed to a Remington model 760 pump carbine in 30.06 that has been my perfect deer rifle for many years and will be for many more. In the last ten years I have used some of the largest rifles in the world for hunting deer and bear in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin and they were all down loaded to act like the perfect deer loads. Until the next time from the loading bench. Practice, Practice, Practice.
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From the Loading Bench Ed Hammond www.nyatiinc.com
Caliber
Bullet wt.
MV
ME
Powder wt. wt.
Gun wt.
Recoil Energy Recoil Vel. Powder ft. lbs. FPS Density %
Total Volume
.375 H&H 235
2,000
2,087.1
39
9
12
9
44
88.4
300
2,000
2,664.3
43
9
19
11
48.6
88.4
300s
1,300
1,125.7
27
9
7
7
30.5
88.4
Caliber counts! At Nyati Inc. we have changed the rules to fit the game. Our loading puts the .375 H&H into a new category as the most versatile caliber in the world.
Today there is no limit to what the .375 H&H can do; from groundhogs to elephants and anything in between, like the Whitetail deer and the black bear. Many people would say that the .375 H&H is over-powered for such game and that would be true with most of the loadings on the market today. However, at Nyati Inc. we have changed the rules to fit the game. Our loading puts the .375 H&H into a new category as the most versatile caliber in the world. That’s a bold statement from Nyati Inc., but true. If you look at their website, it should be apparent that the loading for the .375 H&H covers a full spectrum of field use.
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 51
Backstrip “Under God the People Rule” South Dakota State Motto
In Honor of South Dakota celebrating its 125th Anniversary, American Legacy Firearms is offering a limited edition 125th Anniversary South Dakota Revolver. Only 125 of these Revolvers will be made and sold on a first come first served basis. Call 1-877-887-4867 or visit www.AmericanLegacyFirearms.com today to reserve yours before they’re gone!
Those who think of South Dakota may think of one of two things. First, they may think of Mount Rushmore, the attraction that has literally given this state a face. Home to the heads of four famous presidents, Mount Rushmore is forever cemented in South Dakota lore. Second, people may think of Wall Drug, an old time store located in the town of Wall. With roots that began in the Great Depression, when it offered free ice water to customers, Wall Drug is filled with relics, food, and history of the region. Billboards advertising this store can be seen from as far away as Wyoming; it may only be a matter of time before these signs are even seen from outer space. Or you might think of the rolling plains that literally go as far as the eye can see. While Mount Rushmore and Wall Drug are important entities to South Dakota, they are by far not the only things that define the state. The State boasts some of the best hunting & fishing destinations in the Midwest. From the Badlands and Indian Reservations in the West to the rolling plains and farmlands in the East, South Dakota is one state filled with endless experiences. The heart of South Dakota however is the people themselves, tough and tested, South Dakotans define America. Nowhere else in the United States will you find an area so steeped in old west history, folklore, art, mystique and tradition than South Dakota. The moment you step into this State your mind can’t help but shed the illusion of happiness garnered from modern creature comforts and begin to absorb the reality of what life was truly like for our Nineteenth Century forebears. Life was at its most raw and only the toughest, most leather-skinned men and women survived. It wasn’t easy but it was real and it brought a joy that only a true pioneer and cowboy would realize. Living each moment to the fullest, constantly testing your grit and facing your problems head-on in an environment ready-made to chew up & spit out the weak. These folks were forged in steel, pounded relentlessly by an unforgiving land and instilled with a fortitude, strength & genuine happiness that you and I can only imagine. The American West was born and tested in the Dakota Territory. This is where famed gunfighter and lawman James “Wild Bill” Hickok was shot dead while playing his last hand of poker, the famous Dead Man’s Hand: Two black aces and two black eights. Frontier scout Calamity Jane roamed these deadly streets, as did hard-as-nails sheriff Seth Bullock. South Dakotans can be summed up in one word: Attitude. The cowboy’s attitude was the litmus test which determined if he would survive a confrontation or be left lying in the dirt to feed the buzzards. This is where farmers and ranchers worked their fingers to the bone feeding America, and still do today. Braving the weather, impossible odds, and even the Great Depression these men and women are the unsung heroes of this land. Presentation Grip (Left) Agriculture is fundamental to the history & economy of South Dakota.
Page 52 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
The Gun
As tried & true as the people of South Dakota themselves the Ruger Super Blackhawk .44 Magnum is a single-action revolver treasured by single-action shooters, hunters, and even self-defense minded collectors who aspire for a jewel in their collection. It is 24 Karat Gold-Plated on the barrel, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, and back strap featuring the quote: “Under God the People Rule.” The hammer and trigger have been hand-jeweled. Of course, this firearm is fully-functional. We found that many of our clients enjoy carrying theirs in their favorite holster, and have for many years. With this revolver you also get a hand-made French– fitted carrying case that is cut-out and recessed for the revolver to fit into nice and snug. We think the crushed velvet lined case makes the revolver look even more stunning.
Presentation Grip (Right) Shortly after Lewis & Clark came through, fur traders began trading with the Indians. Their posts were the first white settlements in South Dakota.
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Presentation Barrel (Left) Presentation Barrel (Right)
Life’s Too Short To Shoot An Ugly Gun Presentation Cylinder - Mount Rushmore Mount Rushmore is a project which involved the efforts of nearly 400 men and women. It is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, near Rapid City, and was built from 1927 to 1941. Gutzon Borglum is the famous sculptor who created Mount Rushmore. The name itself came from Charles Rushmore, an attorney who had mining claims in the area in the 1880s. Washington represents the foundation of the country, while Jefferson reflects the expansion of the country with the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the country in size. Lincoln preserved the country through the Civil War, and Roosevelt helped develop the country as a world power. The monument attracts over 3 million people a year.
Left Cylinder - Black Hills Gold Rush The famous gold rush that occurred in the Black Hills began in 1874, when the U.S. government sent General George Custer to choose a location for a new army fort and to investigate the area’s natural resources (this is before Custer’s Last Stand). The expedition’s confirmation of gold in the region drew thousands of white settlers and prospectors to the Black Hills.
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American Legacy Firearms American Legacy Firearms is a leader in engraved, limited edition, and one-of-a-kind firearms that you can’t find anywhere else. They offer the finest in quality and workmanship. Their guns are simply stunning. What we like most about all of American Legacy Firearms is that they are 100% fully functional. These are collector guns you can actually use. Most collector guns just sit in the trophy case or hang on the wall. Not American Legacy’s guns. Plink, hunt, or carry. In other words enjoy it and then pass it down through the family as a lasting legacy. It will become a prized family treasure with a rich history. American Legacy Firearms is able to engrave the stocks and forearms with just about anything you can imagine. Their unique selections of engraved limited edition firearms come in several formats including Gold Plated, Blued or Nickel Plated. As you can see from the South Dakota 125th Anniversary Ruger Super Blackhawk, their work is incredible. Their prices are reasonable and best of all they have a great layaway plan for that “got to have” collector gun that’s just out of reach. If you’re looking for a fantastic limited edition firearm that shows history recorded in artwork, or a custom one of a kind personal heirloom check out American Legacy Firearms. Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 53
All too often, opening day of the season comes around and we have the fields scouted, blinds covered and decoys ready but your dog is out of shape. The best way to avoid this is simple conditioning drills. I am going to discuss some of the drills and techniques I use every pre-season to get my dog ready for opening day. My goal is that all of you are able to take some of my simple drills and use them with your hound to get him/her as ready for opening day as you are.
The first thing I want to talk about is making your conditioning and training sessions the most effective. If you hunt your retriever with an e-caller, make sure to be conditioning the dog to the collar during your conditioning and training sessions. This will get the dog used to the stimulation of the collar again so when you use it on opening day, he/she knows what is expected. Next, make sure you find a few conditioning spots around town. The key to getting your dog in shape and ready for that first retrieve is having good training spots to simulate hunting situations. The most important part of this training and conditioning that you are about to start with your pup is to remember to keep it fun. Stop doing a drill or activity before the dog gets bored or too tired. If the dog isn’t having fun or doesn’t seem interested, change the drill or tactic. Having said that, lets get into the drills and talk about why you need a few good training/ conditioning spots. The first spot is simply an open cut grass field like at a local park or school. Get some tennis balls and dummies. I assume most dogs will chase one of those two toys. Start by getting the dog excited and interested in retrieving their toy. Now
simply
play
fetch.
By Josh Sowada
Page 54 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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Once the dog is retrieving well, start to work in the dummies so the pup gets used to having that larger object in their mouth. After a few drill sessions, phase out the toy and only throw the bumper. Once your dog is retrieving the dummy at short and long distances like a champ, it’s time for the second spot. If your dog seems disinterested in the dummy, try scenting the dummy with the appropriate scent for what you will be hunting. This seems to gain the interest of most dogs. The second spot should have a water source for practicing water retrieves. Find a place on the water source that has medium to thick cover. We want to throw the dummy into or near the water, that way the dog is forced to combat the thicker cover. Once you have a good spot, we want to just start with some short retrieves where the dummy is in shallow enough water for the dog to stand. This will get them ready for the water and make them confident doing water retrieves. Once your dog is retrieving nicely, start to throw the dummy further and further from shore. This forces the dog to swim further for each retrieve. Swimming is excellent for conditioning your dog. By also starting further up shore and throwing the dummy out in the water, your dog is now running and swimming in their retrieve, which is not only building confidence and getting the dog ready for hunting, but it is also a great conditioning exercise for the dog. Swimming is a high resistance and low impact exercise for your dog that will really help him/her get physically ready for opening day when the birds are piling up. Once your dog is comfortable and confident with water retrieves, it is time to head to the third training spot. Spot three is a large field with thick cover. Some sort of CRP grass field works best but you could utilize any thick upland hunting style cover that you can find. We are now going to work on two things at spot three; retrieving in thick
cover and finding birds in thick cover. This is a great exercise for upland hunters and any of you that, like me, don’t always drop the bird right in the decoys. We want to start with simple, short marks or throws of the dummy for simple retrieves. Try not to throw the dummy into an area that you are not willing to walk into. Remember when conducting this drill to make sure to have scent on the dummy so that the dog becomes more aware of how their nose can help them find a bird. As the dog is more confident, make the marks or throws longer each time. If the cover is too thick or the bird is just too far away for the dog to see where it landed, you may need to step in and help the dog find the dummy.
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 55
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Having said that, always make sure to remember where you threw the dummy. If the dog is having a tough time finding the dummy, walk near where the dummy landed and call the dog over to you so the dog’s line crosses the dummy’s position. It is important that the dog find the dummy each time as this builds confidence. If the dog ever doesn’t find the dummy, be sure to carry an extra with you that you can throw out to help them retrieving an object. It is extremely important that the dog finds the dummy so that they do not lose interest. This is something that can ruin your opening day of upland hunting in a hurry and also goes along with keeping the drills fun for the dog. As your dog begins to advance his/her retrieving skills in the thick cover, I would recommend to now start alternating between your water spot and your thick cover spot (spots two and three). This progression of conditioning will help prepare your dog for several hunting situations. You and your dog should start your conditioning 6-8 weeks before opening day. If you devote 3-5 nights a week to conditioning, your dog it will make a huge difference, not only on opening day, but also on the overall success of your season. Training sessions don’t need to last much more than 10-15 minutes per session. This is less than an hour per week of your time. I assure you that if you start preparing your dog now, your buddies will all be talking about your pup come opening day. I hope this was helpful and that you and your hunting group have a memorable season.
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Page 56 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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The Easy Loader kennel series consists of the original Easy Loader and the Deuce Kennel, made of High Density Polyethylene plastic with UV protection integrated throughout the entire kennel. Vacuum forming makes these kennels strong and durable. Featuring wire gates that are custom made with stainless steel handles, handles, pin guides and brackets and are welded & powder-coated. The Easy Loader weighs 33 lb. and the Deuce, 31 lb. They are designed for hunting and retrieving dogs that are weigh around 75 pounds. Where the Easy Loader is designed for all full size pickups (including large SUV’s, Toyota Tacoma, and most UTV’s), the Deuce will fit most small SUV’s (like the Lexus RX series, Honda CRV, Ford Edge).
BOTH KENNELS ALSO FEATURE A DIVIDER, which is cut and formed to fit, that comes with the kennel and is easily installed at the time the kennel is put together. We offer cold weather doors, which are made of tough utility plastic, are attached to the front of the gates by using a whiz-lock bolt and plastic thumb nut. This cover will close off approximately 90% of the cold air that comes into the kennel for those cold winter mornings and if it heats up removes the cover in less than 30 seconds. We also offer vents, custom made specifically for Easy Loader Series kennels, which have three holes that can be adjusted to allow more, less or on cold days no air. THE BEST THINGS ABOUT THESE KENNELS ARE; they have been around for more than 20 years, tough, durable and light, and are made for the weekend warrior or the seasoned guide or hunter. Because they are small and light, this allows for easy care. If they get dirty, simply hose them out and let it dry. No rust, no sharp corners, no worries about your dogs getting hurt inside of these kennels. We offer a one year full warranty on workmanship and parts. Any part that is needed can be replaced! All of our parts are manufactured in the USA by proud Americans and we pride ourselves on our workmanship.
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Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014 • Page 57
By Ryan Miller
Page 58 • Dakota Hunting Guide - Summer 2014
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It’s that point in the year in which we all start prepping for the coming archery season; for some of us, that is months prior to the season. For others, that is a week or days before the season hits. I like to plan ahead and be as prepared as possible so I started months ahead by selling my previous bow and decided to get a brand new setup for the year. My setup is a 2013 Bowtech Experience. Regardless of what bow or equipment you are using, there are some key things one should pay strict attention to when setting up a new bow. I do not work in a pro shop or shoot target often, but I want my bow as accurate and sound as possible for hunting. Most of the newer compound bow models are so much faster than they were in the past. Try shooting a lower poundage bow for comfort instead of getting hyped up on only speed. My bow came from the factory at 74 pounds but I immediately turned it down to 65 pounds because I shot that draw weight the year prior and it was super comfortable and easy to draw and hold. My bow got turned up to 70 pounds while paper tuning because my bow shot better with my pre-cut arrows from the previous year but we will get into that later. Don’t Cut Your Arrow Shafts Until it’s Time to Have Your Bow Paper Tuned If you happen to buy new arrows that are un-fletched, that will prove even better. I recommend this because once you get your bow totally setup and tuned, it’s time to paper tune your bow. A lot of people may try to convince you otherwise, saying only target shooters do this but why wouldn’t you want your arrow coming off your rest as straight as it can prior to contacting the target? The reason not to cut your arrows yet is because during paper tuning, they will cut them down little by little to what your bow likes best. Once you are shooting bullet holes during paper tuning, you can then have all your shafts cut down. I used pre-cut arrows from my previous year and we actually had to bump my weight up from 65lbs to 70lbs to get the right spine for my new bow and it just happened to shoot a lot better through paper that way or I would have kept it at 65lbs. A New Peep and Kisser Button I previously didn’t shoot with a kisser button or make contact with my nose to the string as a secondary anchor point reference but I have learned to over the past few years. On a cool and crisp Halloween morning, the rut was on in the patch of woods we were sitting and filming in. A very nice and mature 8-point buck came out of the woods easing his way down a long path toward us. I sat there watching him stretch in the sun and raise his rack looking all around. The whole time the buck was patiently coming in, I kept getting more and more anxious and when the time came for a 20 yard chip shot, I sailed an arrow right over his back! How did this happen? When I drew my bow, I looked straight down my string and at my 20-yard pin as I settled it on the vitals and let her rip. Little did I know that I anchored far enough back that I was looking over my peep sight and thus made a huge miss on a buck that, at the time, would have been my biggest archery buck and it was all on film. I felt horrible but Huntdhg.com
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have not shot without a kisser since. When that kisser touches the edge of your mouth, you know that you are at the same exact spot as you practiced with and it becomes second nature. Not all of us make nose contact with their string but this past season I decided I needed to try it. When having my new peep installed, I had them gradually move it down the string a few times until I could actually close my eyes, draw my bow back and get my kisser in position and then feel the string on my nose slightly before opening my eyes. This allowed me to come to draw instinctively without forcing myself to just keep the peep where my sight housing was. I then had my kisser and peep installation finished and adjusted my sight housing accordingly. Cam Lean Most people check the timing of their cams and don’t pay much attention to the slight lean in their cams. I used to shoot a Hoyt and it had horrible cam lean so the bow shop added some serving to the yoke of my strings to reduce the cam lean which made my bow draw a little easier and also shoot much better. Ask your pro shop to check your cam lean when they are tuning it and you may find a small fix will help you immensely. Sighting in Your Bow This seems simple to most guys, as you just need to focus on following that arrow in; if your arrows hit left, move your sight left. If it shoots high, well then move your pin high. I am not happy just lobbing arrows into a loose group so I try and do my best to keep accurate. I start by shooting 5-6 yards from the target and first get my arrows dead center left to right. You can move back and check at 20 or 30 to see if you are torqueing your bow
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at all and it is causing a left or right movement that you wouldn’t see at such a short distance as you started. You can try and correct torqueing issues or just move your shot back to center when you are back out there but be sure you are group tuning at this point. You can’t just shoot a single arrow when you are back 20 or 30 yards and adjust based off that. I suggest shooting 3-4 arrows and seeing how you group and base your adjustments off that. I have always been told by the pro shop that your bow will shoot the same at 5-6 yards as it will at 30, my bow shoots fast enough that I run a 30 pin and out on my setup. I found when sighting in this year that my bow actually shoots about 1” low at 6 yards when I am dead on at 30 so just keep that in mind as everyone’s setup will shoot a little different. Another thing I will add is that when you get back to 40 yards and beyond, it gets harder to keep your pin over a little dot on your target. What I do is take a paper plate and shade in a big black circle so that the contract between that and the plate is easier to see at a distance and helps with my group tuning and sighting. I could go on and on about the little things I have found and what I prefer to do when setting a bow up but I figured that I would cover some of the small basic things that can really help your new bow setup come to life. I think most shops won’t go over all this stuff with you if you don’t ask for it, so talk to them a little about your bow and make them tune it the way that shoots best. I hope this small write up brings accuracy to your bow and that it may help you fall even more in love with the sport of archery as a whole.
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