The Goldthwaite Eagle

2013 Mills County

Hunting preview Mills County Monster Bucks Must Have Gear Guide Expert Advice From the Pros

Deer Doves

Turkey Wild Hogs Predators & More!

FREE

Take One!

A Special Publication of

The Goldthwaite Eagle

Page 2 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

The 2013 Hunting Season Is Here!

By Steven Bridges Can it be that it is hunting season already?

When deer season ended last year, I thought the 2013 season was so very far away. It seemed the new season would never get here. Now that the season is upon us, I can’t help but think of all the things I have had on my outdoor ‘to do’ list that have yet to be done.

I am thinking about getting food plots planted, feeders filled, stands repaired, bow tuned, rifle sighted in and a million other things I thought I’d have plenty of time to do in the summer. And of course, I’m praying for rain!

Well summer is nearly over and I have a lot to do in a short amount of time. I know that even as I run around preparing everything for the upcoming season, it will all be worth it on opening day.

All my worries will wash away that first morning as I sit in my deer stand and the

first glimmer of light rises in the east. I’ll be waiting anxiously for that first movement in the brush. Will it be a yearling doe or that monster buck I glimpsed in velvet this summer?

Even so, now is the time to gear up and get going on preparations for the hunting season. Goldthwaite offers many places to get feed, seed, deer stands, guns, camo and ammo. These businesses are featured throughout the pages of the 2012 Edition of the Mills County Hunting Guide.

Local hunters are encouraged to shop locally for their hunting supplies. You’ll get great prices, selection and personalized service that only our small town merchants can offer.

Also, I encourage our local hunters to take a child hunting this season. Introducing a child to the outdoors will help keep our way of life in the future. With none of the distractions of this busy world, a hunting trip can also be a great

New Construction Remodel & Retrofit 3 Reduce energy bills 3 Minimize noise pollution 3 Reduce outdoor allergens 3 REDUCE carbon footprint Aaron Sanders Construction

SPRAY FOAM INSULATION

512-734-0911

FREE ESTIMATES aaron@asandersco.com 1819 S. Chestnut Lampasas, Texas

way to get some one-on-one quality time with a child.

All hunters should make safety the first priority this season. Have a set of rules for hunting camp that everyone knows and follows to the last letter. Remember, the object is to bag game, not each other or yourself.

•••• Dove, deer, hogs, turkey and small game are all in abundance in Mills County. Hunters from across Texas and farther descend on Mills County each fall to chase various game. Hunting is vital to our local economy, as well as our outdoor way of life in Mills County.

This is the 12th year The Goldthwaite Eagle has printed a Mills County Hunting Guide. Our 2012 Mills County Hunting Guide won Special Section of the Year at the West Texas Press Association and South Texas Press Association.

We are honored to be recognized by our peers in the industry. However, we are just proud of the exposure we are able to provide to our local advertisers. And even more proud of the thousands who read the Hunting Guide. It is music to my ears when a camo-clad hunter sticks his head in the door of The Eagle and asks me, “What day is IT coming out this year?” No award can replace that feeling.

In my humble opinion, the 2013 Edition of our Hunting Guide is the best Hunting Guide to date.

You will find the pages of this publication filled with trophy game animals

harvested in Mills County by local hunters. You will also find wonderful stories written by local writers of hunts that took place right here in Mills County. Of course, local advertisements are also featured throughout the Hunting Guide.

Please shop with our local advertisers.

I’d like to thank all those who advertised and submitted photos and articles for this year’s Hunting Guide.

I encourage everyone to mail, e-mail or bring pictures and stories of locally harvested deer and other wild game by for The Eagle to publish in the newspaper and next year’s Mills County Hunting Guide.

A special thanks goes out to our loyal advertisers who make this edition possible. Without our local advertisers, none of this would be possible.

Steven and his wife Debra enjoy a beautiful sunset after a successful Mills County dove hunt.

Submit Your Trophy Photos and Stories to:

PO Box 249, 1002 Fisher Street Goldthwaite, Texas 76844 goldnews@centex.net • GoldthwaiteEagle.com

325-648-2244

Everything for the Outdoors

Right Here in Goldthwaite

Buck-O-Rama

Rifles Shotguns AR-15s Pistols Black Powder Ammo MOJO Doves Gun Cleaning Crossbows Archery Supplies Paper Targets Tannerite Targets Deer Corn Feeders Feeder Accessories Hunting Chairs Pop Up Blinds Camo Clothing Binoculars Rangefinders Hunting Knives Pocket Knives Knife Sharpening Coolers Game Cameras Gun Consignments Cover Scents Scent Eliminations Wildlife Calls Fishing Supplies Outdoor Cooking Camping Supplies

Saturday, September 21 Hear Hunting Secrets from Mills County Hunting Experts Get Geared Up for Hunting Season with Super Special Outdoor Department Deals

! r o F g n ti n u H n e e B e ’v You This is the Oppor tunity

NEW

New Items Arriving Every Day!

Huge Inventory of MOJO Decoys IN STOCK!

Perfect Camo Pattern for Mills County Shirts - Outer Wear Caps - Ladies - Youth

Open Mon. - Sat. 7-6, Sun. 12-4 • 325-648-2515 • Major Credit Cards Accepted

Mills County Visitor Guide - May 13th, 2009 - Page 3

Page 4 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

/$:621 ,03/(0(17 LAWSON IMPLEMENT hardworking Serviceable

This Time This Timei wanT i wanT someThing someThing

Nothing /$:621 ,03/(0(17 /$:621 ,03/(0(1 Nothing Mows Like a Mows Like a

Mills County Visitor Guide - May 13th, 20

MS 170 CHAIN SAW

• Designed for occasional w tasks around the home

DEERE!

14" bar

LAWSON This Time, IMPLEMEN i’m geTTing a STI

Carries a Full A DEERE! FullNowLine ofLine

hardworking Serviceable

This Time This Timei wanT i wanT someThing someThing

• Includes many of the exce features of our professiona

FS 45 TRIMMER

Chain S Blowers & Shredd BG 55 HANDHELD BLOWE Cut-Off Mach MS 170 CHAIN SAW Multi-Task To JOHN DEERE Saw Chainsa&Full Guide Carrying Line B Mills County Visitor Guide - May 13th, 2009 - Page 3 Too Landscaping Riding Mowers JOHN DEERE Introducing the 4-seat, 44MPH Gator XUV 825i S4.

Hand Tools & Accesso Tractors, Plows, This Time, i’m geTTing aGato ST Starting at In addition to the 44-MPH top speed, the 50 horse Protective Toys App Accessories, FS 45 TRIMMER

xuv 825i s4

• Easy-to-use, wellbalanced trimmer for homeowner use

• Lightweight, reliable and fast starting

BG 55 HANDHELD BLOWER

14" bar

• Great for quickly cleaning driveways, sidewalks and hard-to-reach places • Designed occasional • Primer bulb andfor throttle lock wood-cutting tasks ensure fastaround starts the home

• Easy-to-use, wellbalanced trimmer for homeowner use

• Lightweight, reliable a fast starting

• Great for quickly driveways • Cancleaning use nylon line or sidewalks and STIHL hard-to-reach PolyCut™places head

Chain Saws Blowers Shredders & Merchandise power of pure muscle, and room for four, the back $1,499 You see, every day... seat lifts up for additional storage and folds down toYou can count on Lawson Implement Cut-Off Machines we won’t sell y MS 170 CHAIN SAW 3 Straight talk and genuine advice about their full line of STIHL products convert into extra cargo space as needed. chain saw in a 3 Fast and expert on-site service Multi-Task Tools not even a big 3 We stand behind every product we carry, always fully assembled hardworking start at stihlusa Sawsolutions Chains Carrying a Full Line of • Designed for occasional wood-cutting Guide Serviceable solutionsBars start at stihlusa tasks around the home LandscapingHAMILTON, Tools GOLDTHWAITE, TX 14" bar • Includes many of the excellent design 325-648-2272 or 800-548-7865 features of our professional 254-386-8103 or 800-658models Hand Tools HWY 84/183/16 N. US HWY 2 Tractors, Plows, Gators, www.lawson-implement.com lawsongold@centex.net lawsongold@htcomp.net lawson@htcom Accessories Accessories, Toys Protective Apparel • Can use nylon line or STIHL PolyCut™ head

• Includes many the excellent design • Optional vacuum andof gutter kit featuresavailable of our professional models attachments

• Primer bulb and throttle lock ensure fast starts

• Optional vacuum and gutter kit attachments available STIHL HAS YOU COVERED WITH PROTECTIVE APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES.

/$:621 ,03/(0(17

STIHL HAS YOU COVERED WITH PROTECTIVE APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES.

Starting at

$1,499

With two convenient central Texas locations including Hamilton and Goldthwaite, Texas, we strive to provide the ultimate in service, quality and customer satisfaction.

Please feel free to come in to either location to ask questions or just talk shop for a little while. You can also call or email us and one of our experienced staff will be happy to answer your questions. FS 45 TRIMMER

LAWSON IMPLEMENT

Nothing JOHN DEERE Mows Like a LAWSON This Time, IMPLEMENT i’m&geTTing a STIHL. Merchandise

DEERE! Now Carries a Full Line of 03mcvg09LAWSONcmyk.indd 5

FS 45 TRIMMER

homeowner use

Lightweight, and If you are in the •central Texasreliable area please visit fast starting one of our dealerships for the true "hands on" • Can forward use nylon to lineearning or experience. We look your STIHL PolyCut™ head business.

14" bar

MS 170 CHAIN SAW

JOHN DEERE Riding Mowers GOLDTHWAITE, TX GOLDTHWAITE, TX Starting at

$1,499

Chain Saws Blowers & Shredders Cut-Off Machines Multi-Task Tools Saw Chainsa&Full Guide Carrying Line Bars of Landscaping Tools JOHN DEERE Hand Tools & Accessories Tractors, Plows, This Time, i’m geTTing aGators, STIHL. HAMILTON, TX Protective Apparel Accessories, Toys 254-386-8103 or 800-658-6807

BG 55 HANDHELD BLOWER

Lawson Implement is a certified John Deere Gold Star Dealer• Easy-to-use, with a complete well- line of agbalanced for ricultural, homeowner andtrimmer farm implements.

325-648-2272 or or 800-548-7865 800-548-7865 325-648-2272 HWY84/183/16 84/183/16 N. N. HWY

Available at participating dealers while supplies last. © 2009 STIHL

JOHN DEERE Riding Mowers Sales • Service • Parts

Available at participating dealers while supplies last. © 2009 STIHL

• Great for quickly cleaning driveways, sidewalks and hard-to-reach places • Designed occasional • Primer bulb andfor throttle lock wood-cutting tasks ensure fastaround starts the home

• Easy-to-use, wellbalanced trimmer for BG 55 HANDHELD homeownerBLOWER use • Lightweight, reliable and fast starting

Welcome Hunters!

• Includes many the excellent design • Optional vacuum andof gutter kit featuresavailable of our professional models attachments

• Great for quickly cleaning driveways, • Can use nylon line or sidewalks and STIHL hard-to-reach PolyCut™places head • Primer bulb and throttle lock ensure fast starts

• Optional vacuum and gutter kit attachments available STIHL HAS YOU COVERED WITH PROTECTIVE APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES.

STIHL HAS YOU COVERED WITH PROTECTIVE APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES.

254-386-8103 or 800-658-6807 & Merchandise US HWY 281 S.

www.lawson-implement.com You see, lawsongold@centex.net lawsongold@htcomp.net lawson@htcomp.net You canWeb: count on Lawson Implement everyinfo@lawson-implement.com day... www.lawson-implement.com lawsongold@htcomp.net www.lawson-implement.com • Email:

No Bag Limit!

Deli - Bakery Pizza Pro Western Union Money Transfers Rug Doctor Rentals - Money Orders Laser Car Wash and More!

David & Danny Schwartz

1500 Fisher St. Goldthwaite 325-648-3313 Mon. - Sat. 7:30 - 7:00 Sunday 8-5

Page 6 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Chamber Wild Game Supper Nov. 30 The Goldthwaite Area Chamber of Commerce’s 9th Annual Wild Game Supper will be a tremendous success, organizers said.

Chamber President Linda Head said last year’s Wild Game Supper “went great.” She says she expects the annual event to be even better this year.

Head said they served nearly 1,000 people last year. Head went on to say the Chamber directors had a blast and were also pleased with the turn out. They are already making plans to ensure this year’s event will be “even bigger and better.”

“Overall, it went very smoothly,”

Head said. “Everyone had their fill of locally cooked game. We gave out lots of prizes and guns, too. It was great!”

Head said the attendees represented a healthy combination of locals and visitors. Many locals brought out-of-towners along with them, she said. “Our locals like to show off what Mills County people can put together. The out-of-towners are usually happily surprised.”

The many raffles held went off without a hitch, and door prizes were given away all night, Head added. The supper lasted until about 9:00 p.m., she said.

Head noted all the meat served

at the supper came from local landowners and donors. “Our local cooks outdid themselves. Everyone was impressed with both the amount and quality of the food.”

The menu included whitetail venison, venison chili, black buck, axis deer, catfish, mountain oysters, and wild hog, along with sides, bread, beverages and desserts. “No one went away hungry,” said Head.

p.m. at the Mills County Civic Center. Raffle items will be on display with tickets available for purchase in downtown Goldthwaite on Saturdays until the event.

Seven Guns to be Raffled off at this Year’s Event

This year, seven firearms will be raffled off during the Wild Game Supper. “Our featured rifle this year 2013 Wild Game Supper is a .44 Magnum Henry Big Boy Riis Saturday, November 30th fle,” said Head. “It is a very special rifle that would fit fine into any fire This year’s event will be held Sat- arm collection.” See you there! urday, November 30 beginning at 6

Mills County Chamber of Commerce Annual Hunter’s Appreciation SEVEN Rifle

Wild Game Supper

Raffles Featuring Henry Big Boy .44 Mag Wild Game

Tons of Door Prizes!

Mills County Civic Center Doors Open at 6:00 pm • Dinner at 7:00 pm

Mills County, Goldthwaite Area Chamber of Commerce

Provided & Cooked by Local Cookers (Donations Appreciated)

Saturday, November 30th

On the Square • PO Box 308 • Goldthwaite, Texas 76844 www.millscountychamber.com • gcc@centex.net • 325-648-3619

Ranch Land Country Store Ranch Land Store Feed & Country Fertilizer

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 7

WILDLIFE FEEDERS:

Wide Selection of Wildlife Feeders PURINA ANTLERMAX Feed & ATTRACTANTS: Fertilizer Hunting Supplies

All Seasons - HCR - Big Horn Remington - Hang ‘em High All Seasons • Hang ‘Em High Diamond - J Gotcha Diamond • J Gotcha • Crossfire

Capsule Game Feeders • HB Hunting

DEER PELLETS Purina AntlerMax Recleaned Corn Deer Pellets Horn Corn - Milo

BLINDS - BLINDS - BLINDS Atascosa Blinds

Blinds Ranch King Blinds Beast Feast Camo & Ammo!

Feeder Accessories Blinds Deer Cocaine Attractants FEEDER ACCESSORIES: Batteries • Timers • Funnels Buck Grub Hog Lights & Superior Fiberglass Varmint Lights

Beast Feast • Deer Cocaine Batteries - Timers Lids •Funnels Spinner Plates • Solar Panels

Recleaned Corn • Horn Corn FeederBuck Fire •Bran Buck Jam • Acorn Rage Lids Spinner Plates - Solar Varmint Cages • Road Feeders Country Acres DeerDeer Blocks Milo • Trophy Rock • AntlerMax Blocks Feeder Fire

Trophy Rock

Wide Variety of Hunting Supplies!

Panels Varmit Cages Road Feeders

Bulk Deer Pellets & Delivery!

Texas Deer Stands Ranch King Atascosa HB Hunting Thermo Blinds Bitter Creek

Welcome Hunters

Let Us Deliver & Set Up Your Deer Stand For You! 1 MILE Mile North of Goldthwaite on Hwy. 183 •- (325) 648-2741 1 N. HWY 183 OF GOLDTHWAITE 325/648-2741

Delivery Available!

FOOD PLOT Seed & Fertilizer

RANCH LAND RENTAL

Tractor & Plow

PERFECT FOR GAME PLOTS!

1 Mile N. Highway 183 of Goldthwaite

325/648-2741 Russell McCoy: 325-938-7565 Scott McCoy: 325-938-7464

RIDING LAWN MOWER TRAILERS Dump Beds Tilt Beds - Equipment

TRENCHERS Walk Behind Ride On Track Type (Foundation work) EXTENDED REACH FORKLIFT BACKHOES AND TRACKHOES JACKHAMMERS

SKID STEERS SKID STEER ATTACHMENTS Grapple Bucket Standard and Rock Bucket BellTec Post Hole digger 12” Tree Shear Hay-Spear - Pallet Forks

COMPRESSORS WELDERS ROTO ROOTERS FLOOR TILE REMOVERS

And Much More!

Page 8 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Largest Wounded Warrior Hunt in the Nation Plans are already underway for the 4th Annual Mills County Wounded Warrior Whitetail Hunt.

Some changes in the organization of the event have been put in place that we hope will make the experience even better for the participating soldiers, landowners, guides and volunteers.

“My goal has always been to get soldiers together with landowners to go have an enjoyable hunting experience in the wonderful countryside of Mills County, ” event co-founder Steven Bridges said.

The annual hunt started with 55 hunters the first year and has grown so much that last year, we had roughly 130 hunters making it the largest hunt of its kind in the nation.

While the growth of the interest in and involvement of the visiting hunters and locals alike is surely a blessing, it has also presented some practical challenges from the organizers’ standpoint. That’s why Bridges and Col. Kevin Smith, the other event co-founder, have decided to enlist the help of some of the other good people of Mills County this year.

Bridges, who also owns The Goldthwaite Eagle, said he and his staff will handle the media aspects and promotion of the event, (and that he hopes to also serve as a guide). He and Col. Smith have, with the help of other locals, put together a loosely-formed steering committee this year.

As of the printing of the 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide, that committee consists of Scott and Andrea Esse, Mills County Sheriff Clint Hammonds, Wesley Fletcher, Bev and Les Garrett, Chamber Director Linda Head as well as Bridges and Col. Smith.

Each of these volunteers has taken on different responsibilities and roles in the execution of this year’s hunt. While there are a lot of changes afoot this year, and we’re still early on in the planning, we do know the hunt will be held Jan. 11, 2014, the first Saturday of the special spike and doe season in Mills County. It’s always been the aim of the Wounded Warrior Hunt to take excess deer out of the county that need to be harvested and do it for a great cause.

Another goal of the committee is to ensure that all landowners and guides that request to take a hunter not only get a hunter, but be matched up with a soldier weeks in advance of the hunt so that they can build a relationship before that soldier ever comes to Mills County for the hunt.

This will also ensure that the landowner and the soldier are a good match before it’s time to go hunting, and make sure that the landowner can handle any physical limitations the soldier may have. This can also aid in changing matches, should the need arise.

Sheriff Hammonds will be handling the landowner relations. He’ll be taking landowner information, and has offered his cell phone number as a point of contact for anyone who would like to take a wounded warrior hunting. He can be

reached at 325-451-4140. If you are a wounded warrior or know anyone who has served in the military, who meets our criteria and might be interested in participating, contact Hammonds also.

All landowners and/or guides must be registered no later than Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Wild Game Supper held annually at the Mills County Civic Center. Anyone not registered by that day will not be guaranteed a hunter. This will allow us to match up the landowners and soldiers, and ensure a positive experience for everyone concerned.

On the soldiers’ side, Scott Esse, Les Garrett and Col. Smith will be in charge of signing up soldiers this year. The goal of the steering committee will be to get a diverse group of soldiers from all branches of the Armed Forces who have been involved in a wide range of service-related deployments and time frames.

Donations: It has never been the goal of the WWH to raise a lot of money. The main objective of the event is to take soldiers hunting, which costs very little in monetary terms. The main expense is the time of the landowners and guides, and the land to hunt on. The local business owners and citizens of Mills County are asked over and over to give for every event and organization, so one of the many upsides to arranging this event in the way we envision it is to alleviate that burden on the residents, who are always so willing to give to a good cause.

Bridges said he does realize, however, that many people do still want to help in some way, even if they cannot be a guide or volunteer the day of the hunt. Anyone who would like to make a donation of money, gift items for the soldiers, etc., should contact Bev Garrett at 254-718-7951.

Bev will also be taking pre-orders until November 30th at the Wild Game Supper for anyone who would like to order a commemorative T-shirt. Call her to give her your size and pay ahead, and get your Tshirt the day of the hunt. In addition, Bev is going to have local children make posters welcoming the soldiers. Parents will need to contact Bev if their child is interested so Bev can get the child grouped with the right person.

Bridges and the steering committee would like to thank the people of Mills County, and all the volunteers, who have made the Wounded Warrior Hunt a wonderful experience for the soldiers over the last three years.

“I sincerely hope that by delegating some of the different organizational responsibilities that we can address some of the concerns and suggestions expressed by those involved with our project over the last three years, and make the hunt better, make everyone’s job easier, and of course, put on a hunt that is a very positive experience for everyone involved this year, ” Bridges said.

s ll i C M ount 4 1 y 20

Whitetail Hunt January 11, 2014

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 9

Deer Hunting with ‘Double Trouble’

By Steven Bridges “Is it gone?” Tristan asked, clearly disappointed.

I bumped into my good friend and fellow 1989 “Don’t worry. I have a feeling there are some coming GHS grad Jody Reven at a football game when the this way,” I assured him.

Eagles played San Saba last year. Jody and his son, About five minutes later, another deer appeared in Tristan, had come into town unexpectedly that the opening. I could tell through the binoculars that it weekend, which also happened to be the weekend was a younger deer than I would like to have him take, of Opening Day for the whitetail deer season. and as I was going back and forth in my mind whether I asked Jody what their plans were for the weekto let Tristan take it or not, a bigger doe appeared. It end, and if Tristan had ever been deer hunting. Jody started walking up that clearing toward us like it was said Tristan had not. So, since my wife, Debra, and on a string, and I knew this was the one. our two kids were away visiting Debra’s sister, Lisa, Tristan reached up to adjust his cap, and the doe and their new cousin, Julie, leaving me a bachelor stopped.Tristan, however, remembered what I had told for the weekend, I quickly offered to take Jody and him and stopped short himself, sitting there with his Tristan out hunting the next day. hand on the bill of his hat for must have seemed like When they came by the house that Saturday, I got forever to him. I was proud of him, though. He was dothem all outfitted in camo, and decided to let Tristan ing everything just right, and the doe eventually started use Debra’s .243, which has always proven to be up again toward us. She had no idea we were there. good for the younger hunters. I showed Tristan how When she got about 100 yards or so away, Tristan to use the grunt call and rattle the antlers and all started breathing heavily. Then Jody started breathing that, but told him we would likely be trying for a heavily. When the doe was about 75 yards away, and doe. We packed some snacks and headed for the turned broadside, I told Tristan to get ready. He picked Graves’ XTC Ranch near Caradaan. up his rifle, and I told him to calm down, and that when On the way, I told Tristan the plan — that we he was settled, to take the safety off and shoot.Tristan would sit downwind from where I expected the took several deep breaths, then did just as instructed deer to be, and how important it is to be still. We and dropped her right in her tracks. were not going to be in a blind or near a feeder; the We were all excited, and Tristan kept the spent shell plan was to sit out and try to intercept some deer as a souvenir. We sat there about 15 minutes, making as they moved from their regular bedding place to sure all was settled before approaching the doe.There their feeding place. The spot I picked out had thick was about 30 minutes left of daylight, and I decided brush with an opening that provided a nice cushion maybe we should try rattling the antlers to lure a buck. of time between the time the deer became visible I grunted and rattled, and we waited a few minutes. to us, and us to her, I thought. Nearby, however, Pictured above are Jody Reven and son Tristan with Tristan’s Tristan was getting anxious to see his deer, but I conthere was also a long strip that had been clear cut. first buck and first doe, taken this season at the XTC Ranch in vinced him to let me try again. Nothing. We were all As I told Tristan, if the deer came down that clear Mills County. pretty antsy, but I felt sure we’d see something, so I fence line, it would be able to see us immediately, so tried a third and final time. We then noticed a buck we’d have to be super still. directly behind us, and I wasn’t sure how long it had been there. Then a second buck emerged I had brought a camera tripod along so Tristan could use it to hold his rifle steady. I put Tristan on our other side. The two were bristling and ready to stand off. The buck in front of us was a in the middle, and Jody was off to our left. I showed Tristan how to move the gun off the tripod young 8-point — not a cull buck at all. I told Tristan that one needed to grow up some more, and when he saw a deer, and we practiced that a couple times. I also showed him how to use the he was disappointed, but about then the buck behind us came circling around. scope, and where, on the deer, to aim for. A shot into the shoulder should down the deer quickly, This buck looked much larger, and had a small rack with only one brow tine on one side. He I told him. could go, I decided (we have a managed land deer permit at the XTC), and I asked Tristan if he Aiming at a tree, Tristan practiced holding his breath, then letting it out, and squeezing the wanted to take the buck.The shakes and deep breaths returned, but once again,Tristan calmed trigger.We did this for a few minutes, and we went over all the tips I’d given him one more time. himself and took the deer in perfect form.

Then it was time to wait. There is always the worry that a young hunter will have a hard time We went over and looked at the deer, and then I made a mad dash for my camera in the truck being still during the wait, but on this hunt it became apparent to me that for two guys who are in hopes I could get a good shot while there was a little light.The rest of the night I called Tristan more than 40 years old, it’s pretty difficult to stay still on the hard ground for very long. It proved “Double Trouble.” a lot harder than I remember it being when we were in our 20s.

“You were just double trouble for those deer,” I joked with him.

About an hour later, my back was really giving me fits over this non-lawn-chair situation. It had Tristan had taken his first doe and his first buck on the same day. Also, the XTC Ranch biolocooled off a bit, and there was a little wind.We hadn’t seen a deer yet, but I was enjoying listen- gist later agreed the buck was a good one to remove from the herd. Jody and Tristan donated the ing to the birds and looking at the leaves, while talking to Tristan about these things in hushed doe to the Ministerial Association, and they had the buck processed for themselves. tones. It was about then that I saw a lone deer about 250 yards off. I signaled to Tristan to get his I have to say, it just doesn’t get any better than that. binoculars, but the doe disappeared into the brush.

Page 10 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Wounded Warrior Bags Two Trophies The Mills County Wounded Warrior Hunt started in 2011 when Eagle Owner/Publisher Steven Bridges was contacted by retired U.S. Army Col. Kevin Smith, who asked Bridges if he thought a few local landowners would take some soldiers hunting. When Bridges started checking around, dozens of locals volunteered to help in one way or another, and the project took on a life of its own.

“The 2013 Hunt was our third year, and it’s still amazing,” Col. Smith said.

“The people of Mills County have supported us in every way possible.

Each year our former soldiers in the Wounded Warrior Project, our Purple Heart winners, and our theater veterans are simply overwhelmed

by the patriotic support shown by Mills County. This remains the premier hunting event — nationwide — for the Wounded Warrior Project.

God bless you all!”

Bridges echoed Smith’s sentiments.

“I’m very proud of all the people who selflessly give their time and energy to this event,” Bridges said.

“The smiles on these soldiers’ faces are what keeps me doing this every year. I truly get more out of the event than I ever give.”

One of the success stories was retired Army Sargent John D. Jackson. Jackson had the opportunity to hunt with two guides and go onto two different properties during the

2013 Mills County Wounded Warrior hunt.

Sawyer Ables donated a blackbuck off the Stacy Ranch east of Goldthwaite for Jackson to hunt. “It was the fist blackbuck I’d ever seen live,” said Jackson. “He didn’t stay that way very long. The rifle took care of that!” He made a good shot and downed his first trophy of the hunt.

Later that evening, Cully Carr guided Jackson onto a nice, eight point Mills County whitetail buck.

Again Jackson made a good shot dropping the buck in his tracks.

As you can see in the photos to right, Jackson was all smiles when he came to dinner after his two hunts.

John Jackson SSG (RET) took a blackbuck (above) donated by Sawyer Ables on a special morning hunt guided by Cully Carr. Jackson also hunted in the evening with Cully Carr and took this nice Mills County Whitetail buck (below).

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 11

City of Goldthwaite WELCOME HUNTERS!

NO CITY PROPERTY TAXES Affordable Electric Power Clean, Secure Water Source Great Schools & Churches

Future Home of...

TxDot Welcome Center Texas Botanical Gardens

Home to the Official Texas State

Championship Goat & BBQ Cook-off

ABUNDANT HUNTING OPPORTUNITIES

NEW AIRPORT GOLF COURSE GREAT PARKS 1218 Fisher Street - P.O. Box 450 - Goldthwaite, Texas 76844

State Football Champions 1985, 1993, 1994 & 2009

(325) 648-3186 - city@centex.net Mike McMahan - Mayor / Rob Lindsey - City Manager This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer

Page 12 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

‘Buckshot’ Goes on an Exotic Hunt

By TJ Greaney The pre-dawn air was cool and moist, almost exotic.

“Buckshot,” (each boy gets a nickname at Kids Outdoor Zone Hunt Camp), and his guide, Cody Ryan, were spot-and-stalk hunting as the sun crept over the horizon.

Buckshot and his guide walked slowly through the thick brush and peered down the long clear cut sendero. A few axis bucks were meandering about, walking west away from Buckshot and Ryan; mixing in and out alongside were two big axis doe and a Dall ram. Buckshot's adrenaline shot up, and his heart was pumping fast. His hands began to shake as he saw his first chance at his ram. The angle was wrong; he knew he couldn't shoot.

Exotic hunts not only provide a quality hunting experience, they can also be used to train interested adults and kids in hunter safety — what to do after harvesting an animal, game processing, and more.

When it comes to introducing kids to hunting, firearm safety is a must.

Responsible firearm safety is taught by responsible firearm owners. The right gun is one that does not scare the kid using it. It is almost impossible to take a kid to an indoor shooting range, stand them next to a guy shooting a .300 Win Mag, put a 30.06 in one’s hand, and expect him to be comfortable learning to shoot.

My theory on the best learning scenario has always been to pick an outside shooting setting and use a scoped .22 or .17. Let them shoot to their hearts’ content, learning safety and scope skills. When it is time to take the first animal, replace the small caliber with one large enough to do the job, but not so large it can break a

“Buckshot” with his exotic Dall Ram. bone in the kid’s shoulder.

Back to our story.

Cody Ryan and Buckshot keep walking as the sun continues to come up.

The deep cuts and creek bottoms are hard to maneuver, but crossing them

is the only way to get to the back pasture area where the other rams had been seen the day before. Finally they reach the tree line that runs along the outside edge of the thick cover and the back pasture. Slowly and in-

tentionally, carefully and quietly, they move behind an old oak tree with fallen timber and thick cedar trees on either side. Looking around the oak they can see a group of rams, maybe 80 or 100 yards to the east. The sun is coming up behind them and breaking through the canopy just above. The rams seem uneasy as usual and start to move toward the brush and dark shade. Ryan moves Buckshot in front of him and helps him find a comfortable rest for the scoped .223.

"The ram on the left is the one we are looking for," explains Buckshot's guide. "Do you see him in your scope?

Is it a clear shot for you from here?"

"Yes sir, I do. I see him. Should I shoot now?" Buckshot asks.

"Yes, when you have a clear shot and are ready, go ahead," Ryan says.

Bam! The ram falls immediately to the ground.

"I got him! I got him!" Buckshot starts to yell with excitement.

"Shhhh, take it down a notch. Reload and let’s stay here a minute.

Good shot. Great shot, pal,” Ryan tells Buckshot. The mentor and guide is as excited as his student but tries to keep calm.

Buckshot has done something that just a few months earlier was only a dream. These events used to be a common transition for a boy to manhood. He learned to hunt to feed his family, to survive. The skills learned by this hunt, the dirt, the weather, the still quiet moments Buckshot experienced outside are for many boys only a dream, but for him, today, it is real, and he loved it.

TJ Greaney is an award winning outdoor communicator and founded the Kids Outdoor Zone (KOZ). Find KOZ and TJ on Facebook or email him at tj@kidsoutdoorzone.com.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 13

Patience Pays Off with Big Buck

to be it. It was the last night. Now or never. He was quartered away hard with

By Rhonda Calhoun My husband and I have a small 40 acre lease at Lake Brownwood. I had his head down. A 30 yard shot. I was shaking so bad I didn’t think I could seen a particular buck a couple of times the previous year as a 10 point. I get my bow drawn. I let the arrow fly and heard the arrow hit and watched knew if he survived he would be a great buck the following year. as he jumped in the air. I couldn’t believe what I had just done plus got it As I started looking at trail camera pictures last season I couldn’t believe on film! By the time I got out of the tree and found my arrow it was dark. what I saw. It was that same buck The arrow showed good sign but from the previous year, only now I didn’t want to trail in the dark. he was an 11 point.

I found him the next morning!

This was one of my most memo I checked cameras every day hoping to see him in daylight rable hunts. hours. He was staying nocturnal and I was afraid I wasn’t going to About Rhonda Calhoun be able to get a shot on him with Rhonda was born and raised in my bow. There were only two days California and moved to Texas in left before rifle season opened. I 1986 where she met her husband in 1995. He is the person who inknew I had to do something quick!

So, I went hunting that same day. troduced me to archery. She lives I went in early to set up my video in Early, TX and worked at New cameras (all three). I was going to Horizons Ranch for 10 yrs. and refilm this hunt all myself. I couldn’t tired in 2007 after which they built afford any mistakes. and owned a convenience store in I got situated in my tree stand Early. and sat patiently awaiting my “We sold the store in 2012 and buck. It was almost prime time. are now retired giving us opporThe does and young bucks were tunities to travel and do what we coming from all around. I watched love”. During the months of Februand glassed the area to see if I ary through August, Rhonda travcould get a glimpse of him. The els nation wide competing in arsun was starting to set and I was chery tournaments . She is on the Mathews Pro Staff Team and comsurrounded. As I watched their Rhonda Calhoun with her small acreage 11 point archery buck. petes in the women’s pro class. behavior, something was up! They stopped and went on alert. Some During the months of Septemthing was coming! Oh my goodness, there he is. I watched as he walked ber through January, she is out in the field hunting and filming hunts for two TV towards me from the distance. My heart started to pound. I stood up and shows...Blue Collar Adventures on NBC Sports and American Predator on Dish slowly went for my bow. They must have heard or seen me and scattered. Channel 266. Rhonda is also active with NASP (National Archery in the Schools As I turned back to look for my buck I found him bedded down in the field Program) and loves working with and teaching kids this great sport. She plans about 100 yards from me. OK, I thought, no problem, just wait, but the sun to take her nine year-old grandson out for his first bow hunt this season. She was going down. Oh please get up! Then it happened. He got up, looked started teaching him at the age of five and this is his year. around and headed my way again. Something wasn’t right. I could tell by Rhonda was also able to travel to Africa where she harvested a Cape Buffahis posture that he was not comfortable but he kept walking slowly towards lo with her bow. She is only the 4th women ever to achieve this goal. All of her me. He finally came within 30 yards. I drew my bow but there were too many hunts are free range. deer around me. They scattered again. Luckily they didn’t go far, and one by Rhonda is very excited to be able to inspire, promote and encourage people one started coming back. This wasn’t going to be easy. Especially trying to of all ages to give archery a try. She is especially excited to see more women getfilm it by myself. I didn’t want to harvest this beautiful buck without being ting involved and is open to helping anyone that wants to give it a try. Rhonda is able to share the experience. planning on filming a soldier during the 2014 Wounded Warrior Hunt to be held I was running out of light. Wow, how was I going to pull this off? This had January 11th in Goldthwaite.

Page 14 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Mills County Selfbow Gobbler

By Jim Hamm Contrary to popular opinion - and the vast majority of my own personal experience - killing a spring gobbler with a hand-made selfbow is not a contradiction in terms. True, after weeks spent afield with the turkeys unmercifully kicking your butt it may seem so, but you just never know when the turkey gods might blink.

This particular turkey saga began a few summers ago when I sponsored an informal "bow bee" here in Mills County. A group of us got together over a long weekend and made some serious wood shavings. There were a couple of veteran bowyers, but most of the bunch were complete rookies. Well, we had a ball, and everyone turned out a lovely new wood bow.

Ricky Prescott was one of the uninitiated attendees/victims. Little did he know what he was getting into. Ricky is a young fellow (compared to your graying-inthe-hair author, at least) and could probably bench press my entire carcass. Anyway, he crafted a fine Osage flatbow, 66" long and pulling a little over 60# at 26". He could shoot it, too, and I figured he'd be a threat to wildlife come hunting season.

He got skunked that fall, however, through no lack of effort, due to the standard swirling wind, squeaking stand, and matriarchal "Doe From the Underworld". You know, a normal hunting season.

Feeling somewhat responsible for his new obsession, the next spring I asked if he'd like to go turkey hunting. He'd never hunted gobblers with a longbow but

Welcome Hunters!

had heard all the stories. Ricky arched one eyebrow but graciously made no pessimistic comments before agreeing to give it a try.

Now, I would like to submit that a spring gobbler might arguably be the toughest tag in North America to fill with a selfbow, with the possible exception of a Kodiak bear. Sure, elk are difficult, but a large measure of his difficulty lies in inhabiting vertical country with a decided lack of breathable air. Antelope can be tough too, with their wide open habitat, but a blind at an isolated waterhole can yield non-stop action. And we all know about whitetails, with their uncanny sense of smell and shot-from-a-cannon reflexes.

But for pure degree of difficulty, I'll put my money on turkeys every time. I'm not talking just turkeys in general, understand, for plenty are killed from deer stands in the fall. That alone is hard enough, I'll grant you, but I'm talking about waking up one spring morning and thinking, "I'll go out today and call in a gobbler and shoot him with my wood bow from the ground." Yessir, that gets my vote, and I hear plenty of seconds from veteran turkey hunters.

You see, a gobbler has only one real defense, since he has no sense of smell and his hearing isn't as sharp as a whitetail's. But his primary defense is a dandy; X-ray vision. I exaggerate only slightly. Turkeys see in full color (notice his head turn all

Continued next page...

Celebrating

50+ Years Welcome Visitors!

Liquor Beer Wine Ice & Snacks Liquor • Beer • Wine Charcoal Ice • Snacks & More Lottery Debbie & Shacky Tiemann Select Hunting & Fishing Supplies

Reg. Hours: Monday - Saturday • 10 am - 9 pm Beer Store: SundayHours: in WinterMon.-Sat. • Noon - 8 pm Regular 10-9 Sunday in Summer • Noon - 9 pm

7-1/2 Miles North Beer Store: Sunday in Winter Noon-8 of Goldthwaite on 325-966-3776 Sunday in Summer Noon-9 325-966-3776 • www.ToddyHouse.com US Highway 16 www.toddyhouse.com All Major Credit Cards Accepted All Major Credit Cards Accepted

Expanded

Wine Selection

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 15

those pretty hues when he's strutting), and there's nothing on the planet which I tried a couple of different calls, a cedar box and then a slate with a genuine mescatches movement quicker than his eye. If you so much as crack a smile at a turkey in quite striker my oldest son had whittled out around the campfire the spring before. bow range he's usually gone so fast you'll wonder if he was ever there - which makes Mr. Turkey answered every time but continued to strut and whirl in the same place. I actually drawing an arrow the equivalent of doing calisthenics. Adding to the degree tried complete silence, with precisely the same result. Stalemate, since there was no of difficulty is the fact that they're not very big, comparatively, and don't make much moving forward across the mostly open ground between us. And we were too far of a target, assuming, of course, that one stands still long enough to let you get to full from the creek to use it as cover. After almost thirty minutes of this back-and-forth draw. Yes, turkeys can indeed be tough..... calling and gobbling, I knew from past performances that he was likely to lose interest Ricky arrived at the appointed time, an hour before daylight. I knew where a couple and wander away. of gobblers were roosting down by the creek, since I had put them to bed the night So out of desperation I finally got really aggressive with him, calling constantly with before. This consisted of getting them to gobble on the roost about the time the first first one call and then the other, which elicited a steady stream of gobbles. stars showed in the evening. Some folks do this by howling like a coyote or hoot- After five minutes of this mayhem, Ricky hissed, "He's on our side of the creek."

I immediately shut up, hand frozen with ing like an owl, since a loud noise often evokes a reflexive gobble. Personally, I like the call in midair. Then I could see him, to yell like Tarzan, and the birds coopertrotting straight toward us with his head rotating like a periscope. I could hear ated with an answer.

Ricky breathing in short gasps. I hoped he We eased to within a hundred yards of the gobblers before setting out a decoy didn't pass out. I'm writing this so I can reand stepping into a make-shift blind in a port my breathing was perfectly normal. I shallow ditch. I gave a few soft yelps with always wheeze. a call as the sky lightened in the east. One Mister Tom kept coming until he finally sleepy gobble in reply. I heard a turkey fly spotted the decoy, when he screeched down from the roost a little while later, to a halt and started his best strut, facing and tried the occasional cutts and purrs us head-on. This took place about eight that a hen makes. Nothing. Well after sunyards in front of me and ten from Ricky. I had a full view through a small hole in the up, when we were about ready to move junipers, with me willing him to turn and along the creek bottom and try again, I hide those deadly eyes with his fanned happened to glance over at the decoy. tail. He was pure beauty and wildness as Standing next to it, in full strut, was a big, he strutted and drummed, facing us the wise, silent tom. He no doubt saw my surprised flinch, for he instantly hauled it to while. another zip code. I muttered something Imagine my surprise, and the gobbler's impolite. Ricky just shook his head, like he too, when an arrow suddenly appeared wasn't the least bit surprised. dead center in the middle of him. How We spent the rest of a splendid crystal Ricky got drawn without getting busted morning calling every couple of hundred I'll never know. After watching and listenyards. We heard a few far distant gobbles, ing to that big gobbler for more than half but nothing remotely interested in anan hour, how he managed to hit him at all is an ongoing mystery, but he somehow swering us, even though we tried moving closer. After a few hours of this playing tag center-punched that old tom. with phantoms, we headed back to camp Well, I threw the call straight up in the to regroup and go to Plan B, whatever that air and pounced on that bird before he was. When expectations are zero, things might get the mistaken notion that he can only get better. wasn't dead. Ricky eventually wobbled When literally within sight of camp, we Ricky Prescott with his fine gobbler, taken with a handmade wooden bow. over to look at his first kill with a selfbow, stopped and tried one last time. A booma twenty pound Rio Grande gobbler with ing gobble answered before I'd finished a ten-inch beard. calling. We put out the decoy and threw ourselves into the brush twenty yards in front I shook his hand like I was pumping water. of it (for bowhunters, setting up in front of the decoy is critical. Gobblers often hang "You'd better sit down a minute," I grinned, noting his complexion was the color of up and start strutting as soon as they spy it, and if you're twenty yards behind the de- fresh biscuit dough. coy, as many turkey manuals recommend, that means your quarry is now forty yards Ricky collapsed next to his trophy, holding his chest as if his heart were trying to away.) I wound up sitting cross-legged in a thicket of waist-tall junipers while Ricky escape.

"Is turkey hunting always like this?" he gasped. stood next to a large pecan tree just to my right.

It was well we set up so quickly, because the gobbler immediately strutted into No sir, it's sure not, not by any stretch of a vivid imagination. Bowhunting for turview, three hundred yards away and across the creek. I knew we were in trouble. The keys is usually a most humbling endeavor, which makes the rare days the turkey gods natural course of events is for the gobbler to strut in an opening so the hens can see blink all the more golden. how pretty he is and come to him. Getting the tom to do the opposite and come to the fake hen is difficult, at best. And calling him across a creek or fence or road is often “Jim Hamm has written ten books on traditional archery, bowhunting, and the Indian flatly impossible.

Wars of Texas. His books are perennial best sellers among traditional archers worldwide.

"Man, is he big," Ricky whispered. Yep, when you can see his beard at three hundred For a list of his titles, go to Amazon.com and type Jim Hamm into the search window.” yards, he is a keeper.

Page 16 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Don’t Mess with a Deer in the Fence

Deer are graceful, agile creatures, but an imperfect leap can leave them hopelessly entangled in the strands of a barbed-wire fence. Most deer caught in this trap perish of exhaustion or dehydration. But a few

Niecy’s Antiques, Gifts & More “Something for Everybody” 2005 Fisher Street • Goldthwaite, TX

Trophy Whitetail Hunts

325-985-3311

Carlisle Land & Cattle Co. Big Bucks - Experienced Guides Great Food & lodging Hurry! Limited Number of Hunts for 2013-2014 Season

1210 US Hwy 84 W., Mullin, Tx • CarlisleRanches.com • rcar@centex.net • 325-985-3311

lucky ones are discovered in time.

What should you do if you happen across a deer caught in this situation? First, remain on the opposite side of the fence as the deer. It’s trapped, but the deer might still work up the energy to deliver a strong kick with its free hooves. Next, determine whether you can use a stick, tire iron, or some other tool to twist the wires and free the deer. Under no circumstances should you use the barrel of your rifle for this purpose.

If this tactic doesn’t work, you might have to resort to cutting the fence.

Many hunters carry multi-purpose tools such as the Leatherman, and the wire-cutters can free the deer in seconds. (If the fence isn’t on your property, you’d be well-advised to contact the landowner prior to cutting.)

Once the deer is on the ground, it may dash off into the brush unharmed. If the deer makes no attempt to flee or even stand, you might consider calling the game warden or an animal rescue group.

If you decide that euthanizing the deer is the best course of action, remember that you must follow all hunting laws and the deer must be properly tagged. Texas laws do NOT allow the euthanizing of injured white-tailed deer outside of hunting season.

Mills County Abstract & Title Tom F. Duren, Attorney at Law Keri Roberts, Attorney at law

Mills County Abstract provides Title Insurance, Closing & Attorney Services to buyers, sellers, realtors, mortgage lenders and builders.

We are locally owned and operated, providing closing services for all types of properties, including residential, farm and ranch, commercial and recreational, as well as attorney services for all real estate transactions.

1014 Fisher Street • Goldthwaite, Texas

325-648-2293

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 17

Central Texas Telephone Cooperative

Central Texas Communications

“The Hometown Advantage�

Telephone Services High Speed Internet Computer Sales & Repair Right Here in Mills County!

Welcome Hunters!

325-648-2237 800-535-8904

Page 18 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Wild Turkey Hunt ‘Gobbler Drama’

By Steven Bridges I took my camera out one morning a few springs ago in an attempt to photograph a big, tom turkey in the wild. I had hoped for a bright sunrise. I wanted the light to shine through the tom’s tail feathers for dramatic effect. I was disappointed when the sunrise proved to be cloudy and hazy.

The clouds might not have been good for photography, but it was great for calling turkeys.

In the sunshine, a turkey can see a hunter blink an eye at 100 yards. One of the first tips I give new turkey callers is to stay in the shade. Turkeys have a very difficult time picking out a still, camouflaged hunter (or photographer in this case) from the shade of background brush. On this morning, the clouds kept the sun off me.

e m o c Wel rs! e Hunt

I had a good idea that turkeys would be roosting in a big grove of oak trees behind a big tank. I sat about 100 yards from the edge of the grove of trees, across a little meadow.

As dawn grew closer, toms began to gobble from the roost.

It was music to my ears.

I called softly and sporadically, just to let the gobblers know I was there. Finally, I heard turkeys flying down from their roosts. Then, all was silent for a few minutes. I sat perfectly still for a while. If the toms were not with hens, I might have some quick action. About ten minutes later, I heard a far off gobble. I thought they must have all moved away from me once on the ground. Maybe they heard me walk in earlier, or maybe I called too soft, too loud or too often.

I sat behind the camera tripod and pondered what to

FULL BAR

Hwy 190 East in San Saba Wed. - Fri., 5 pm to midnight Saturday, 5 pm to 1 am

do. All the adrenaline from the predawn hours had waned away. I had to go to work soon. If I didn’t leave soon, I’d be late. I didn’t have time to chase the group.

I pulled out my new box call. I hadn’t used it that morning because I was not used to it yet. I didn’t want to make a bad call and ruin the photo hunt. With nothing to lose now, it seemed it was the time to see how the call sounded in the wild.

I stoked the slide on the side of the box. The call made a sweet, soft yelp. I smiled to myself. I liked it.

Then... GOBBLE, GOBBLE! I nearly jumped out of my camo!

Right behind me, a tom had slipped silently up. No doubt, he had been looking for me since flying down from the roost. I dared not move a muscle.

I think I spooked the tom a little. He made a circle around to my right and walked out into the opening as if to catch up with the rest of the flock. However, he kept his eyes peeled in my direction. I could not even put my hand on my camera for a photo until the tom had moved fifty yards away.

When he finally turned to walk away, I held the box call between my knees and yelped on the call. This time however, I had my trigger finger on the button of my camera.

The tom gave a big gobble and strutted for all he was worth. I snapped a few shots before he heard my camera shutter and walked questioningly away. I shot a couple nice photos of that tom turkey that morning as he strutted like an actor on a stage. The sun even came out for a few minute so I could get the glint of sunlight off the gobbler’s tail feathers. GOBBLE, GOBBLE!

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 19

Brown & Wesson is Your Source for

Local, Independent Insurance Coverage

Covington’s Big Bobcat Richard Covington took this 38 pound male bobcat this last winter just a few miles south of Goldthwaite. The big cat sported a prime winter fur coat and huge paws. Covington plans to have the cat mounted.

OLIVER’S

TERRY

OLI

& CURT

VER

3 Competitive Pricing 3 Exceptional Customer Service 3 Excellent Claims Service

Texaco Gas Station, Full Convenience Store with milk, bread, ice and other convenience items!

Discounted Tobacco & Self-service Laundromat

Welc Hun ome ters!

Open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. - 7 days a Week

Pay at the Pump - 24/7

WELCOME HUNTERS!

Call Rich Brown or Kim Wesson TODAY!

(325) 648-3065 • (800) 430-3445 325/648-2277 • Off Hwy. 84 just north of Goldthwaite

915 Third Street • Goldthwaite, Texas 76844

Page 20 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Suppressors Now Legal for Hunting If Texans want to hunt with a suppressor this season, they need to get the paperwork done immediately.

A new regulation allowing hunters in the state of Texas to use suppressors while pursuing game animals went into effect last year. With the passage of the new rule by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission on March 30, Texas became the second state in 2012 to legalize suppressor use while hunting. In 2012, similar measures were also passed legislatively in Arizona and Oklahoma.

“These devices are already legal for hunting exotic animals, including feral hogs, and there is no resource- or enforcement-related reason to prohibit these devices for hunting alligators, game animals or game birds, ” said Scott Vaca, TPWD Assistant Chief of Wildlife Enforcement, in a statement released on March 30.

Contrary to popular belief, suppressors, also referred to as silencers, do not render gunshots in- Suppressor: Shown above is a suppressor mounted on the barrel of a rifle ready for action.

Georgia Deeds Ranch & Hunting Land Specialist

REAL ESTATE

Recreational Hunting Residential & Commercial Properties

325-648-2700 Owner - Agent

325 451-0143

Welcome Hunters!

Welcome Hunters!

www.centraltexasranches.net Georgia Deeds

audible. However, often times they do reduce the report of a firearm to hearing safe levels, helping to protect the shooter and those nearby from permanent hearing damage.

In order for a civilian to purchase a suppressor, they must live in one of the 39 states that allow civilian ownership.

All applicants must submit an ATF Form 4, in duplicate, to the National Firearms Act Branch of the ATF for each suppressor purchased. A Form 4, or Application for Tax Paid Transfer and Registration of Firearm, includes a stringent background check that is conducted by the FBI. In addition, applicants must submit a $200 payment for the transfer tax, duplicate copies of passport photos and fingerprints, and receive a signoff from a chief law enforcement officer in their jurisdiction. From start to finish, this transfer process takes anywhere from 30 days to one year to complete.

Visit Our Web Site for Pictures of All Our Listings

1004 Fourth Street Goldthwaite, Tx

Bobby E. Deeds, II Janette Padgett, Agent Broker

325 938-6671

Bobby E. Deeds

325-648-2262 1621 Fisher - Goldthwaite

Jerry Parmer Custom Homes

n o i t c u r t s n o C w e N g n i l e d o & Rem

No Project Too Large or Small!

Quality Construction at Affordable Prices.

MANY LOCAL REFERENCES OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

817-703-5409 / 325-648-2485 1804 Saylor Street • Goldthwaite, Texas 76844 • Fax: 325-648-2634

Page 22 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Mills County Game Warden Vance Flowers Offers Tips

Warden Vance Flowers

• Hunters doing night surveys or varmint shooting should contact the local sheriff’s department at 325-648-2245 to notify the dispatcher of his or her intent.

The call will be recorded in a log, which helps reduce misunderstandings about why people may be spotlighting at night, he said.

• A hunter safety education course was held this past August by Brad Shelton and Jerry King at the Rafter B Ranch just outside Goldthwaite. Shelton plans to put on a hunting education course each August.

For more information, contact me at 325648-2245 or 325-203-1525.

• Landowners who have deer leases are encouraged to post a copy of the lease documents at their camps or give a copy to the hunters using the land so the documents can be accessed quickly.

• Hunters who take a deer and decide they do not want to keep the meat can donate the animal to the local Ministerial

S& D Whitetails

Deer • Turkey • Doves • Exotics

No Fancy Gates, No Fancy Lodge, Just Big Deer!

We have access to well over 10,000 acres of high and low fence ranches in Brown, Mills & Coleman Counties!

age numbers see and harvested.

• Hunting over placed bait (grain, rock salt, etc.) is NOT permitted.

• The most common hunting violation in Mills County is improper tagging or failure to update the hunter’s log. Keep that in mind.

Thanks to the landowners and lease hunters I have dealt with over the last four years. I hope to continue that positive relationship with the community in the future. Happy hunting.

Vance Flowers, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Game Warden for Mills County

Flowers took over as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden for Mills County in 2009. Originally from the San Angelo area, Flowers grew up traveling between San Angelo and Early, where he had family, and as such, was already very familiar with Mills County before moving here.

A retired Irving police officer, Flowers also served six and a half years actively in the U.S. Army, and another 28 years in the National Guard. After retiring from the Irving Police Department, he was contracted with the Texas Department of Public Safety for a couple of years, coordinating cooperation between local law enforcement and the Federal Border Patrol. After finishing his stint with the DPS and the Border Patrol, Flowers retired from military service and decided to go through the 7-month training to become a Texas Parks & Wildlife Game Warden.

WELCOME HUNTERS !

Featured Ranches: Hoof & Horns Comanche Star Jones McGinnis Accommodations:

Enrolled Agents – America’s Tax Experts

Heated Deer Blinds Rustic Cabin RV Hookups Delicious Meals

Dale Storch

Association, which has a program to get the meat processed and to needy families locally. Hunters who wish to donate an animal are asked to field dress it before taking it to the Mills County Meat Co. or contacting the Game Warden to pick it up.

• The deer harvest for the last two years has suffered some decrease in the overall harvest due to the drought conditions.

• This marks the fourth year of the 13inch antler restriction and each year has shown a decrease in the number of illegal bucks harvested. I think this has also improved the overall condition of the deer herds. Along with this antler restriction, please keep in mind that the doe population needs to be managed as well.

• Hunters may only hunt with their own tags.

• Hunters should keep their hunter education cards with them or have that status indicated on their licenses.

• During dove season, hunters may NOT hunt from any vehicle (trucks, cars, UTVs, ATVs, etc.)

• The dove limit has been raised to an aggregate limit of 15 for the 2013 season.

Ring neck or Eurasian doves are not considered as part of that daily limit and in fact are not controlled by us since they are an exotic species of dove. There is no limit or a closed season on those.

• A personal observation I have made is that in the spring of 2013, there was a considerable increase in the local turkey population with much larger than aver-

EA’s are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize in taxation and also have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS.

325-642-7596 www.sdwhitetailstx.com

Email: wittybs@centex.net Office: 325-648-2500 PO Box 546 Fax: 325-648-2533 1010 4th Street Goldthwaite, Texas 76844

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 23 Page 40 - 2012 Mills County Hunting Guide

BRYAN BAGS BIG BUCK — Jon Bryan bagged this huge Mills County buck last season with his .243 rifle. Jon went hunting originally for wild hogs. But, when this monster chased a doe in front of Jon’s stand, Jon quickly went from hog hunter to deer hunter.

Charles W. Miles Certified Public Accountant

Welcome Hunters!

1105 Parker St. • PO Box 581 • Goldthwaite, Tx

325-648-3559

4772 East Hwy. 190 • San Saba,TX 76877 5.2 Miles East of San Saba

Page 24 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Mills County Artisan Guild Shop Now Open

A favorite destination of many local and other Texas Artisans is the Mills County Artisan Guild Gift Shop. This is the Shop’s second hunting season to be in business but our first season at the new shop located at the corner of Fisher Street and 1005 5th Street in Goldthwaite. The Gift Shop is the building with the colorful creatures crawling the walls and hippie style goats leading the pack. Jody Previti and Nan Alexander are two of our affiliated Artisans responsible for the murals. The colorful front door awning was created by two other affiliated Artisans, Pat Gustafson and Paul Kirby and our Store Manager Jody Previti. All four of these Artisans are featured in our Gift Shop and represent the Artisan skills of metal work, western and Native American sketching, sewing, pyrography, jewelry, floral arranging and food arts.

Speaking of food arts - on most Saturdays the Gift Shop offers a bake sale. Typically we serve fruit and sausage Kolaches, cinnamon rolls, apple pie tarts, key lime pies, fresh baked breads such as sourdough, beer breads, spoon bread and scones. We also serve iced mocha and caramel coffees and Joe Dunks! Special orders for food items are available when ordered by noon on Thursday. Please check with Deborah at 325-451-0587 so the baker’s availability can be confirmed.

Several other Artisan skills are represented in the Shop including stained glass, native stone works, pottery, wood turning, branding, painting including gourds, natural lotions and soaps, handmade writing pens and knives, photography and scroll saw creations just to name a few. Many of our Artisans will entertain commissioned projects. Jody Previti will be pleased to coordinate meetings between the Artisans and potential customers.

The Gift Shop hours are Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 8:30 am to 5 pm. The hours will be extended closer to the holiday season. To get in touch with the Shop, please contact Jody at 325451-4753 or Deborah at 325-451-0587.

Phil Starr bagged this beautiful buck Monday, November 12th, 2012 on the Horsefly Mountain Ranch in Southeast Mills County. Phil has not taken a buck off the ranch since 2005, choosing to pass on smaller bucks each year. This year, his patience paid off as his buck scored 159 gross typical B&C points. The Horsefly Mountain Ranch is part of the Simms Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Mills County Artisan Guild

Gift Shop

Representing over 30 Texas Artisans Featuring a wide selection of Hand Crafted Items Unique Gifts for Every Taste

Open Thursday & Friday, 10 am to 5 pm Saturday 8:30 am to 5 pm

“Most Saturdays Bake Sale” Fruit & Sausage Kolaches/Asst. Breads & Pies Varieties of Iced & Hot Coffees For Special Orders call 325-451-0587 1005 5th Street, Goldthwaite, Texas (Next to Sheriff’s Office)

WELCOME HUNTERS! Com

& Kawasaki HillCountryFord.com

The Only Authorized Mills County Dealer for

ing Soon

NEW 2014 Ford Trucks

Ameraguard

Spray-On Bedliners

KAWASAKI MULE Perfect for the Ranch or Lease!

1200 Hwy. 84 N. Goldthwaite, Texas

Total Vehicle Customization

325-648-2296 • 1-800-588-9844

Page 26 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Ain’t Deer Hunting Fun!?!

By Judy Bishop Jurek Across Texas hunting shows in July and August whet the appetite of folks everywhere, gearing up souls longing to be outdoors. As September 1st rolls around, the majority of hunters everywhere receive a renewed spark of interest in their main event: hunting.

Dove season opens the round of new hunting seasons. Hunters have been waiting for a need, reason and/or excuse to travel to deer camp. Young, old and in-between are ready to experience the flavors of the outdoors. Heat, sweat, dust, dirt, chiggers, ticks, owl droppings, woodpecker cravings, rat and mice damage, wasp nests, spiders, snakes and water leaks, along with summer storm spoils, are a few of the interesting and enticing things awaiting discovery.

It was the first full September weekend. Not a breath of wind stirred even the lightest leaf on tiptop branches of the tallest mesquite trees. Barely nine in the morning the day was already sweltering hot.

Two men were waist deep in a hole cleaning out an old sewer pit for travel trailers at deer camp. Thick rat nests of dried grasses, rotten lumber and old pieces of tin were layered over the cavity packed under years of dirt. The men labored intensely to uncover the actual septic tank and fix it properly. Sweat seeped from every pore, even dripping off chins and elbows.

Watching from the sidelines, a fellow lease member offered instruction and guidance. The hardworking pair threw back resistance to the advice presented, enticing other bystanders to make unsolicited comments. An off-hand observation kicked off the day: “Ain’t deer huntin’ FUN!?! ” Laughter filled the air followed by unprintable remarks. Thus began the first hunter gathering of a new round of hunting seasons. It was time to clean up camp, make repairs to any and everything, cut firewood, mow senderos, fill

feeders, and plant food plots. It was also time to reminisce about past deer seasons while making predictions for the one soon to arrive.

Later in the day, still arid and stifling hot, sweat drenched clothes from caps to boots were layered in dust. Some folks actually created their own mud. High humidity made the air feel like an oven had just been opened. Being in top physical form, which most present certainly were not, didn’t make matters any easier.

Low brush, grass, weeds and cacti were shredded to clean senderos and open spots. Another tractor disked areas for planting. Various deer-enticing products were scattered across the prepared ground by seeder while an ATV pulling a harrow scratched over the sowed earth.

The air was clouded with heavy dust.

Ice cold H2O was the favored choice for dry parched throats. During one short break for cool drinks there was much debate as to who was doing the best job when it happened again. From out of nowhere, someone quipped, “Ain’t deer huntin’ FUN!?! ” A dust devil windstorm must have caused the huge mesquite limb to break while everyone was out working. The large wooden arm heavily laden with branches and leaves fell across the power line supplying travel trailers. Breakers

were thrown but luckily nothing more serious occurred. However, air conditioning being off for several hours in the day’s prime heat was considered a catastrophe.

The limb was quickly dispatched into firewood. After electricity was restored all was back to normal. Then came the now classic remark: “Ain’t deer huntin’ FUN!?! ” This statement was quickly followed by, “Well, since a chainsaw’s been fired up, let’s go ahead and grab a couple more to start stock piling wood for the camp. ” While the task was on the “Things to Do” agenda it wasn’t on schedule to be done right then.

Amid protests of it being too hot, having more important things to do, and wanting to wait for the first norther was a question from one of the younger members in the group. “How do you old guys work so hard and long? ” A simple answer barked out, “Cause we aren’t couch ‘taters like you, that’s how! ” Moans and groans went round.

The lease ramrod spoke up, “Aw, come on, Men. Step up to the plate. Be the tough he-men hunters you think you are. Let’s go cut firewood and get it over with. ” More grumbled unprintable remarks followed. Then came the now irritating

me Good News? o S r o f g n i t n Hu Subscribe online and get the news even when you’re not in town.

Read The Goldthwaite Eagle Subscribe Online...

Subscribe for Your Print, Online Edition or Both Right on Our Web Site With Your Credit Card!

www.goldthwaiteeagle.com (325)648-2244

Available Locally at...

Schwartz Food Store McMahan’s Nicki’s Oliver’s Peabody’s

Toddy House Priddy Store Sandy’s Cafe A & B Grocery Quick Check

All That & Then Some Mary’s Tacos Dairy Queen Family Dollar Dollar General

comment, “Ain’t deer huntin’ FUN!?! ” Firewood was cut and stacked, feeders filled, timers checked and set as dusk settled on the long workday. Grandma beads (dirt necklaces) filled creases and folds of every neck regardless of age.

One hunter stated he hoped he wouldn’t dam up the shower drain when he bathed later.

A fire was built for atmosphere. After all, it was deer camp. Smoke lazily drifted upward as coyotes serenaded sunset. An exhausted crew listened silently. Thunderheads appeared in the distant north.

Was a cool norther on the horizon? One could only hope yet dared not check the weather for bitter disappointment.

Settled around the campfire the day’s work was discussed. Good-natured jesting bantered around. Camaraderie is a main stay of every deer camp regardless of locale. One youthful hunter commented, “I got so hot this afternoon I thought I’d pass out. Man, we worked our butts off. I hope we’re finished! ” Without warning someone blurted: “Ain’t deer huntin’ FUN!?! ” Once again the phrase received a plethora of disparaging comments.

However, the ridicule and joking subsided as one voice summarized it well.

“Yeah, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re all here ‘cuz we love deer huntin’ and ALL that goes with it! ” For a split second there was silence as everyone around the campfire contemplated the declaration. Almost a whisper, someone said, “Look at that gorgeous sunset. Who could ask for a better ending to a day like today? ” A toast as made to the new hunting season. Coyotes sang again accompanied by a hoot owl and the call of a nighthawk swooping low nearby. There was a slow, deep sigh, not so much from tiredness as from reflection and thoughtfulness. Once more, expressed with meaningful reverence, came a softly spoken, “Yeah, ain’t deer huntin’ FUN!?! ”

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 27

Have a Safe & Happy Hunting Season!

Family Practice

Rodney Spies downed this mature eight point buck last year with his 30-06 rifle. Rodney rattled the buck up from the brush and shot the monster right before dark. “It was the most exciting hunt I’ve ever had,” said Rodney. “He was sure looking for a fight.”

Welcome Hunters!

Full Service General Dental Practice - Serving Mills County Since 1935 Dr. Tom Cody Graves, DDS Dr. Cody Clark Graves, DDS One Day Denture Service Restorative & Preventive Dentistry Tooth Whitening Dental Implants Crown, Bridge & Veneers Dental Hygiene Care

Clinic of Mills County A partnership of Mills County Rural Health, Inc. & Hamilton Healthcare System

Timothy Rudolph, MD Kristen Stegemoller, MD John Seth, FNP, RNC Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm 1501 W. Front Street, Goldthwaite , Texas

Top Quality Dentistry in a Small Town Atmosphere.

325-648-2251 • 1318 Fisher St. • Goldthwaite

325-648-2850

Page 28 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Dove Hunting Slow? Give Teal a Try!

By Steven bridges Mills County dove hunting can be hit or miss. I’m not talking about lack of shooting ability on the part of our hunters, but the here today gone tomorrow dove themselves.

If dove hunting on your land or around your ranch pond is slow, give teal hunting a try.

Teal hunting is a little utilized two-week season running from September 15-30 statewide. Daily bag limit is four in the aggregate (Blue-winged, Green-winged, and Cinnamon Teal). Remember to use steel shot for all waterfowl hunting.

Teal Tactics

Migrating blue-winged teal stop over on marshes, reservoirs, river sloughs and other waters, especially those with moss or aquatic grass growing near the surface. Teal haunts can be small and obscure, but offer superlative shooting to hunters who find them. They include such varied bodies of water as farm ponds, the Colorado River, Pecan Bayou and small Caliche mining pit ponds.

An understanding of the ducks’ migratory habits can help a hunter formulate a successful hunting strategy. In September, any north wind can bring a new flight. A body of water can be devoid of teal one afternoon, then covered up the next morning on the heels of a new front. Hunters should be diligent and Blue-winged teal are the early birds of the pay attention to local weather forecasts. fall waterfowl migration. Most of these ducks Waterfowlers also should scout their huntnest in the prairie region of the northern U. ing areas just before and during the season S. and Canada, but when the first cool fronts to locate teal. If ducks are present and there’s of autumn blow through, they head south. abundant food, they will usually hang around By the time regular duck seasons come in, until the next cold front pushes them farther most blue-wings have arrived on wintering south. grounds in Mexico and Central America. This Hunting teal is not difficult. The birds are is the reason for the early teal season. It gives typically uneducated as to the purposes of hunters a chance before the ducks head offdecoys and the hunters who set them out. A shore. realistic spread and a good blind are impor Blue-wings, green-wings and cinnamon tant, but blue-winged teal are far less wary teal are legal targets, though blue-wings than bigger ducks that have been subjected make up the vast majority of the bag. Blueto heavy pressure.

On small waters, hunters can usually make winged teal are the most common in Mills County. do with a small decoy spread and a temporary Early teal seasons were started in the midblind. Over the years I’ve enjoyed many teal 1960s. Today they are offered in “non-proshoots while hiding on a farm pond bank. I’ve duction states” in the Central, Mississippi and Local hunter Steven Bridges shows off a blue-winged teal used a hatchet to gather camouflage, sat on Atlantic flyways (not in the Pacific flyway). drake he dropped during a recent hunt on the Graves’ XTC a 5-gallon plastic bucket and worn full camo “Non-production states” including Texas Ranch near Caradan in northeast Mills County. Teal season to blend into the bushes. are those in middle and southern latitudes runs through Sunday, Sept. 30, state-wide.

Jump shooting teal on small ponds is both where teal don’t nest in large numbers. a fun and hassle-free way to hunt teal. Simply Despite warm temperatures and someload your dove shotgun with steel shotshells, times bothersome insects, the early teal season has grown more popular as walk quietly up over the dam of your farm pond and blast away as the teal take the years have passed. For many hunters, the early season provides a chance off the water. to sharpen their shooting eyes and give retrievers a refresher course before the I use a 12 gauge with number six steel shot. A modified choke will give you regular duck season arrives. some room for error while still offering consistent patterns.

Teal are also among the tastiest of ducks. Waterfowl hunters everywhere re- Texas teal hunters will be able to take up to six teal daily during the statevere the teal as the waterfowl with the least “ducky” taste. wide September teal-only season, set to run Sept. 14-29.

The First Ducks We See in the Sky

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 29

Mills County Dove Hunting Insurance

By Steven Bridges I sat with my wife, Debra, next to our favorite dove hunting stock pond with our game bags full of shells and cold shotguns. We had not fired a shot. Not a single dove flew through the air. We were getting skunked.

But like a good Boy Scout, I was prepared. I unloaded my shotgun and put it next to my seat. I reached down and picked up my “Dove Hunting Insurance Policy,” my fishing rod. It was already strung with a topwater Torpedo.

I stepped up to the bank of the pond and flipped the lure just past the moss line in front of me. I let the Torpedo sit still for a few seconds until the water rings settled. When I couldn’t stand it any longer, I gave the frog the smallest of jiggles. WHAM! A nice bass blew up from inside the moss line, engulfed the frog and went airborne. I gave the rod a big yank to set the hook. The bass dove straight back into the moss. He burrowed deep inside the thick weeds. I had 20 pound test line in preparation for just such an event.

I pulled with steady pressure and moved down the bank to change the angle of my force against the bass. I gently increased the pressure on the line until the bass slowly pulled loose of the moss. I now had three pounds of fish and ten pounds of moss on the line... all in one big blob.

I carefully eased the whole blob up to the bank. I slowly began pulling off the moss from the fish. Finally, I was able to grab the lip of the bass and hold it up for my wife, Debra, to see. I was no longer skunked!

Debra said, “Wash that thing off and I’ll take a picture.”

As always, I immediately followed her orders. I washed the fish off and posed for a quick snapshot.

••• A fishing rod has saved more than a few poor dove hunting days. I always keep the rod and a few choice lures in the toolbox of my truck, just in case the doves are not flying.

Dove season is also a great time to fish in Mills County. The bass are especially hungry putting on extra weight before winter. Top water lures work well until the water really begins to cool down, which is usually not until October.

There is no need for a bass boat. You don’t need a bunch of rods and a big tackle box full of lures to gear up for your dove hunting insurance policy. You only need a rod rigged up with your favorite lure. I have an extra lure in my toolbox in the bed of my truck just in case the bass breaks the line. But that is just about it. Anything more is overkill.

So, next time you go out dove hunting near a stock pond, don’t forget to throw a fishing rod in the truck. That little piece of fishing insurance might just keep you from getting skunked.

Page 30 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Camo Always Welcome

By Steven Bridges You can always tell when it’s hunting season in Mills County. The restaurants, retailers, parking lots, streets and everywhere else become a sea of camouflage.

Of course, a good number of our locals wear camo year round anyway, but the surge in camo-outfitted individuals during hunting season is definitely noticeable.

We’re totally OK with that.

Camo is perfectly acceptable in Mills County no matter where you go. You can wear camo into the restaurants and

eat. You can wear camo in the stores while you shop. You can wear camo to the football games. Heck, you can wear camo to church in Mills County.

Stop by the Goldthwaite Municipal Golf Course and play a quick round of golf in your camo. Take a break from the field and relax. There’s no dress code at the golf course, and you can play 9 holes in a little over an hour. There’s no need to call for a tee time, or fight traffic getting there. This is not the big city.

This is Goldthwaite, America, and camo is always welcome here.

Kirby Kirby Dozer/SKiD Steer Service Dozer/SKiD Steer Dozer/Skid Steer Service Service

Dam Dam construction Damconstruction Construction brush brush Management BrushManagement Management terracing terracing Magnum Mulcher ripper & ripper Cedar &Saw Magnum everett A. Kirby Magnum Mulcher Mulcher EVERETT A. KIRBY everett A. Kirby Conservation Contractor Conservation Contractor Conservation Contractor

Serving Serving All All your your conServAtion conServAtion Serving All Your neeDS neeDS Needs Conservation

512-752-3171 512-752-3171Office Office Office 512-734-1764Mobile Mobile 512-734-1764 Mobile

PO BOX206 206 POPOBox Box 206 Lometa, Tx LOmeta, Lometa, TxTx 76853 76853 76853

Steven Bridges takes a swing in full camo at the Goldthwaite Municipal Golf Course with kids Flint and Amber in tow.

Jean Kirby Real Estate

Jean Kirby - Owner/Agent Lometa, TX 76853

“Homes, Land & Ranches”

512-752-3171 512-556-7749 www.jeankirby.com

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 31

R

Diamond R Store & Cafe Full Menu Monday-Saturday 7:00 A.M. - 8:30 P.M.

FRI. & Sat. - Fish Fry You Can’t Miss Us!

Gas • Snacks • Ice & More!

11801 Hwy. 84 E. in Zephyr / 325-739-2068

Page 32 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

me Welco !

Hunters

Same Owners for 30 Years - Don and Judy Seward On the Square in Goldthwaite • 325-648-3535 Breakfast • Daily Lunch Buffet • Friday Nite All-U-Can-Eat Catfish Dinner Sunday 7:00 - 2:00 • Tuesday - Saturday 6:30 - 2:00 • Open Friday Nite 5:00-9:00

NOT ALL LITTLE PIGGIES GO TO MARKET!

Shoots Like a Girl!

Made in

USA

Make monstrous hogs come running to you with aroma-enticing hog products from InSights Nutrition. Contains NO salt water and is made from all natural ingredients.

For best results, try Hog Trap Attractant Syrup, Hog-Get Hard-Cooked Drop Block Attractant and Hog Nut Attractant.

Draws ‘em in. Keeps ‘em in.

www.insightsnutrition.com Facebook.com/InsightsNutrition

Hi –my parents (Mike & Minnie Simmang) and my husband and I (Scott & Mary Ellen Whitsel) both have a subscription to your paper.

We own property in Goldthwaite, where we hunt.

I wanted to share this photo of my daughter’s first bow kill, taken at our place in Goldthwaite!

I am not sure what your deadline or process is, so if you can get it in this week, great! If not, next week is fine too. Or, I think you do a Hunter’s Edition… that is great too!

Please don’t cut her bow out of the picture!

Thanks so much!

ME Fourteen year old, Whitney Whitsel of Ledbetter, Texas, shot this 8-pointer, November 3, 2012 at the Double Heart Ranch in Goldthwaite, Texas.

This is the first deer that Whitney has harvested with her bow!

OPENING DAY BRUISER: Nate Lindsey bagged this huge ten point buck opening morning northeast of Goldthwaite. Nate shot the buck with his .243 rifle at 65 yards. It is the largest buck taken off his ranch in the last ten tears. The buck scored 149-3/8 at Mills County General Store Saturday morning. For more trophy photos, check out the Bragging Wall each week of hunting season in The Goldthwaite Eagle.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 33

PORTER

INSURANCE AGENCY

WELCOME HUNTERS! Specializing in...

R. Warren Blesh

Hunting Lease Liability Insurance Commercial Hunting Operations Guides and Outfitters Farm and Ranch Coverage Insurance Major - NTSU • Licensed Risk Manager 30+ years experience

Brought to you each week by 800.695.6551 100 North Fisk 325.451.0810 Brownwood, Texas

Priddy Store 1006 Fourth St. - Goldthwaite, Texas 325/648-2282 - 1-800/588-5187

Downtown Priddy

325-966-3547

Only Fuel in Priddy!

Cafe • Ice • Beer Tobacco • Groceries

Helping customers own a piece of Central Texas since 1888 Mills County State Bank is committed to long term relationships with our customers.

••• Because we have followed prudent lending guidelines, we continue to have money to lend.

“Where Service Makes the Difference” Goldthwaite 325-648-2216 Early 325-646-0313

Brownwood 325-646-1798 Hamilton 254-386-4461 Hico

254-796-4221

1-800-285-2216 www.mcsbtexas.com

WELCOME HUNTERS! Loans for...

Recreational Property Retirement Property Commercial Property Agricultural Property Country Homes Land Improvements

Member FDIC

Page 36 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

The Heavenly Art of Bowhunting

By Jim Hamm Billy Don had lived a fruitful life. He had been moderately faithful to his wife, had overgrazed his ranchland less than some, and had only poached on rare occasions when he was certain he wouldn't get caught. So after his untimely death (due to falling asleep in his treestand without a safety belt after an all-night poker game), he stood before St. Peter with anticipation.

"Hmmm...", St. Peter said, looking up from his records, "a bowhunter, I see."

"Yes, Your Eminence," Billy Don said.

St. Peter pursed his lips, "I guess you would prefer accommodations pertaining to the hunt."

"Oh, that would be great, Your Worship!" Billy Don burst out, "maybe a treestand in a pretty spot with a big deer trail under it."

St. Peter stroked his beard, "I think that can be arranged."

He summoned an angel, who took B. Don by the hand, flapped his wings, and began flying away.

"And wear your safety belt this time, you dolt," St. Peter called after them.

The angel flew them over beautiful country, full of hardwoods, rough hills,

COX

splashing creeks, and bountiful game.

At last, Billy Don pointed, "How about there?"

The angel nodded, lowering them toward the indicated tree, an ancient oak standing where a bend in the creek pressed within a few yards of a cliff, a perfect game funnel. When he reached the platform in the tree, Billy Don remembered St. Peter's admonition and quickly secured his safety harness. The angel settled on a branch next to him and whispered, "get ready."

B. Don was surprised to find his favorite bow hanging from a hook - a compound with 90% let-off, overdraw, six sight pins, and a full compliment of the latest graphite arrows with modular expandable broadheads. The steady south breeze touched his cheek as he took note of the sun hanging just above the horizon. "Wonderful," he thought, "prime time."

No sooner had he nocked an arrow and clipped his trigger arrow release on the string than the biggest buck he had ever seen, a heavy twelve-pointer with at least a twenty-two inch spread, came trotting along the trail, head down as if he were trailing a doe. Billy

State Inspected

Processing Custom Deer & Meat Processing

Venison - Goat Beef - Pork & More

3050 Hwy. 2861 • Comanche, Tx

254-879-3313

Don drew his arrow, too excited by the quickly moving target to even look at his sight pins. To his amazement, since he'd never had much time to practice, the arrow vanished into the deer's side, a precise heart shot. The deer leaped from the trail, bounded twice, staggered, then fell in a heap.

"Did you see that?" shouted Billy Don, shaking a fist, "quick, let's get down and look at him."

"No," said the angel softly, "get ready."

A flock of turkeys, twenty or more, fed across the creek, at least seventy yards away. Though they were out of range, B. Don had never killed a turkey and immediately launched an arrow.

It arced through the air and struck the biggest gobbler, dead-center. The bird thrashed about a few seconds before expiring.

"This is wonderful," Billy Don said, as calmly as he could, "let's get down and get 'em and head for camp." He decided this Heaven business was great.

"Get another arrow," the angel said.

A bit puzzled, he followed the angel's instructions. A duck hurtled past overhead. Without thinking, Billy Don drew his bow and flung an arrow up through the branches of the tree. The arrow somehow found an opening in the limbs and flew unerringly to the duck, which it transfixed.

"Unbelievable!" he exclaimed, as the duck tumbled to the ground, "Art Young himself couldn't have made that

shot!"

"Oh, no," the angel said, "Mr. Young is not..." He stopped, catching himself.

"Just get ready."

B. Don reached for another arrow and was surprised to find his quiver once again full. He noticed the sun did not seem to be moving, still hanging just above the horizon.

"Couldn't we get down and stalk a bit," Billy Don suggested, "or try rattling, or something?"

"His Holiness wouldn't allow that.

The rules are quite explicit."

A buck, even bigger than the first, came easing down the trail forty yards away. Knowing what the result would be, Billy D. drew and released. The arrow struck the deer perfectly, and he only went a few step before collapsing.

"Look," Billy Don said, "we have to get down and dress the game."

"No," the angel said, "get ready."

"Exactly how long do I have to stay up here without a miss?"

"Forever."

"The hell you say!" exploded Billy Don. The angel smiled.

“Jim Hamm has written ten books on traditional archery, bowhunting, and the Indian Wars of Texas. His books are perennial best sellers among traditional archers worldwide. For a list of his titles, go to Amazon.com and type Jim Hamm into the search window.”

4-Wheeler & ATV Repair Save 50% on labor!

1612 Clyde Street • Goldthwaite

er Lawn Mowo!

Repair To

325-451-0563

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 37

Glenn’s

Glenn’s taxidermy Taxidermy 80 CR 403 • Goldthwaite, Tx • 26 (325) 938-5448 Years Experience

(409) 291-9065 • (409) 786-3121

Full Time

80 CR 403 Goldthwaite

H (325) 938-5448 C (409) 291-9065 C (409) 504-1401 mcquerrysguns.com

Page 38 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Don’t Wear White After Labor Day!

2010 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 45

By Steven Bridges friends of your cousin-once-removed to a hunt and Don’t wear white after Labor Day! they wear camo right out of the box (especially with This fashion rule of thumb is as true on the dove tags still attached) you’d wear aBridges flack jacket. bybetter Steven fields of Mills County as it is on the fashion runways There is a good chance that these guys are going to of Nothing fashmiss every hit youtoor worse, say, I neveryour got to truck. comment when York a dove came whizzing overdove the andNeedless fun New of KrisYork. for this particularoffends miss. I sa-a New ion critic or flying dove more than a white T-shirt

The best dove hunters I know don’t attempt to meto as vored the long silence following the miss. top of the tree at what seemed like light on the easy miss. Kris just turned if to say, “What was that you were about speed.

I let the thought of razzing Kris with stretched over a potbellied hunter holding a shot- make a camo fashion statement. They clad themto say Steve? ” Kris and I saw the bird at the in same time,can some verbal abuse simmer in my mind for selves what best be described as “vintage” gun.

I guess I can take the lesson several a few seconds. I could see Kris trying not but Kris was first to swing his gun up. He camo mix-match outfits. my favor to However, doves and dove hunters are not fashneverexample, miss a chance to shut up. look at me for fear I would begin the hit the dove at forty yards and its momen- ways. One,For Two, get your razzing in while the razzdoveyards hunting ion “snobs.” A dove hunter’s camo tum doescarried not have it anotherite twenty be- outfit consists of a ten-year-old, razzing. is good.

Orblue three,jeans. hunt doves alone... it hit the ground. was a world class was just about to open my mouth to Ihave this year’s pattern.

In with fact, iffore you invite the Itshort-sleeve camoing T-shirt and As long as

Hunt Alone... ALWAYS!

the first of my many clever comments,

om c . y l pp

e at nlin O s tU Visi

ss

hsu c n a r

always.

shot.

the colors are dark and muted, doves have a difficult time picking me out of the brush.

In fact, the Shelton boys (Bradley and Travis) opt for black NASCAR T-shirts sporting Dale Earnhardt Jr. artwork as their dove hunting fashion statement.

Travis says that the color black doesn’t scare the doves. Plus, he really brings in the doves that watch NASCAR. In reality, you can spiff yourself up in the newest camo duds or wear an old, worn out work shirt.

Doves don’t care. Staying still and quiet as doves are flying in is much more important than camo clothing. If you have ever hunted with a kid, I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know.

Ed & Diane Sanders, Owners

WELCOME HUNTERS!

Come see us for your outdoor home improvement needs carryaalarge large variety of products for WeWe carry variety of products your home improvement needs. for your ranch,Mix business or home Concrete • T-posts Septic Tanks • Water needs!

Storage Tanks improvement Fencing Supplies Projects ConcretePaint Mix • for SepticMetal Tanks • Fencing Supplies Plumbing & PVC Supplies T-Posts • Paint for Metal Projects Lawn & Garden Equipment Plumbing & PVC Supplies • Angle Iron 29 Gauge Roofing Lawn & GardenCorrugated Equipment • Steel Tubing Steel Tubing Angle Iron Flat Strap and • Much More!

Flat Strap • and much more!

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. • Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. • Closed Sunday Hwy 84 North • Goldthwaite • 325-648-2231 • 1-866-614-3409

Ginger Spies downed this nice, eleven point buck nicknamed “Scrappy” eight miles west of Goldthwaite last season. Ginger dropped the buck in his tracks with her .270 rifle just as shooting light faded. The buck sported a wide spread and several kicker points.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 39

Local Venison Program Feeds the Hungry

By Tammarrah Pledger The Ministerial Association, with the help of local pastor Carlos Cloyd and Mills County Texas Game Warden Vance Flowers, has started a program where hunters can donate unwanted venison to the area’s needy families.

Cloyd told The Eagle he still needs the support of local hunters, churches, businesses and individuals to make the program a success.

Hunters willing to donate the $40 to have the deer processed are much appreciated. Hunters that simply want to drop off their field-dressed deer, however, are also welcome

Jennifer Blesh Black visited Dad “The Bull” last year on the RRR Ranch in Mills County. Jennifer bagged this trophy black buck using “The Legend” a 22.250 at 125 yards. Exotics can be hunted year around in Texas offering some great off season experiences.

to participate.

In cases where the hunters do not pay for the processing, the Ministerial Association will cover the cost, which has been reduced for this project by the Mills County Meat Co., he said.

Cloyd said he is also asking local families willing to take a whole, field-dressed deer they can process themselves to contact him at the church (325-648-3026) so he can procure a list of persons that hunters can take the animals to directly.

The processed deer meat is collected by the Ministerial Association, he said, and distributed — either directly to the

families or individuals, or through the Goldthwaite Evangelism Center’s Food Pantry in Goldthwaite.

According to Cloyd, the Ministerial Association would like more hunters to donate venison this season. “We have a lot of excess deer in Mills County,” said Cloyd. “We can help the habitat by harvesting the extra deer and help feed our neighbors by donating protein rich venison.”

Anyone who would like to help, by donating meat, funds for processing, or even freezer storage space, are asked to contact Cloyd at 325-648-3026 or Vance Flowers via the Sheriff’s Office 325-648-2245.

Lazy W Guest House

Located on 400 acres just outside of Goldthwaite, the Lazy W Guest Lodge teams with whitetail deer, turkey and an occasional fox.

Kick Back & Relax Enjoy the Sunsets Catch Trophy Bass Take a Hike Watch Wildlife View the Stars

ily Perfect for a couple or a small fam wanting to relax & enjoy nature.

Warren & Dori Blesh

bull@centex.net • www.3rtrophyranch.com/LazyW.htm

325.451.0810 or 325.948.3707

Page 40 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

well as skulls without horns may be possessed without any identiďŹ cation or documentation.

  Mills County Special Antler Restrictions as published on the Texas Parks & Wildlife Web site, a legal Mills County buck deer has:

HUNTING REGULATIONS

‘13 Inch’ Rule

DEER READ VERY CAREFULLY

  1. at least one unbranched antler, or   2. an inside spread of 13 inches or greater. The inside spread requirement does not apply to any buck that has an unbranched antler.

Bag Limit Two Bucks: No more than one buck with an inside spread of 13 inches or greater may be taken.

• A “BUCK DEERâ€? is a deer with a HARDENED ANTLER PROTRUDING THROUGH THE SKIN. A “SPIKE BUCK DEERâ€? is a BUCK with no antler having more than one point. A,, /4(%2 $%%2 !2% !.4,%2,%33 $%%2 A spike buck must be tagged with a buck deer tag from the hunter’s hunting license or applicable permit. • 7HITE TAILED $EER – Except for deer taken under MLD permits, no person may take more than ďŹ ve white-tailed deer or more than three bucks (all seasons combined) in one license year. Bag limits in individual counties may be less (see County Listings). • -ULE $EER – The annual bag limit is two mule deer with no more than one being a buck (all seasons combined). See County Listings for antlerless permit requirements. • SPECIAL ANTLER RESTRICTIONS: - Antler restrictions apply only in certain counties (see County Listings, pgs. 80-103). In these counties, the bag limit is TWO LEGAL BUCKS BUT ONLY /.% may have an inside spread of 13 inches or greater. In these counties, a LEGAL BUCK DEER is deďŹ ned as having: • a hardened antler protruding through the skin AND; • at least one unbranched antler; OR • an inside spread measurement between main beams of 13 inches or greater (does not apply to a buck that has an unbranched antler).

- IT IS UNLAWFUL TO TAKE MORE THAN ONE BUCK WITH AN INSIDE SPREAD OF 13 INCHES OR GREATER IN A #/5.49 7(%2% !.4,%2 2%342)#4)/.3 !2% ). %&&%#4 - To determine if a buck has an inside spread measurement of at least 13 inches, look at the distance from ear-tip to ear-tip on a buck with ears in the alert position (see illustration, pg. 69).

The 13-inch or greater inside spread requirement does not apply to any buck that has an unbranched antler.

- Does not apply on Level 2 or 3 MLDP properties.

• $El NITION OF A POINT A point is a projection that extends at least one inch from the edge of a main beam or another tine. The tip of the main beam is also a point.

68 Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual 2012-2013 REGULATIONS SUMMARY

Legal Point

LEGAL

at least one unbranched antler

Not a Point

LEGAL

at least one unbranched antler

Ears in alert position are approximately 13 inches apart and may be used to judge the inside spread.

LEGAL

inside spread of 13 inches or greater

ILLEGAL

This buck meets none of the criteria

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 41

Mills County worship directory Goldthwaite Goldthwaite Evangelism Center U.P.C., 904 Fourth Street Robert Lingle, Pastor Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.

All ages and Spanish Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

Evening Worship, 6:00 p.m.

Children’s Church, 1st and 3rd Wed. of each month, 7:00 p.m.

Mid-Week Service, Wed., 7:00 p.m.

College & Career and TiteNite Youth 2nd and 4th Wednesday Spanish interpretation every service St. Peter’s Catholic Church Pastor: Rev. Ramiro Tarazona Deacon: Richard Menchaca Mass, Sunday, 8:00 a.m. English/Spanish Confessions: Before Mass 1212 Reynolds, P. O. Box 352 Goldthwaite, Texas 76844 - 648-3732 First United Methodist Church Pastor Carlos Cloyd Sunday: 9:15 a.m., Sunday School 10:15 a.m., Worship Service 6:00 p.m., Evening Worship Wednesday: 6:00 p.m. Seeds of Faith Bible Study 6:30 p.m., “The Rock” UMY 7:00 p.m., Choir Rehearsal United Methodist Women meet 2 or 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month.

United Methodist Men meet at 12:00 noon the third Wednesday of each month.

First Baptist Church Doug Holtzclaw, Pastor Sunday:9:00 - 9:45 a.m., Sunday School 10:00 a.m., Worship Service 6:00 p.m. Evening Worship Wednesday: Prayer Meeting: 6:45 Junior High Bible Study 6:30 pm Senior High Bible Study 7:30 pm Mission Friends & Team Kids 6:30 pm Sanctuary Choir and Praise Team 7:30 pm Second Thursday of each month Prime Timers, 6:30 p.m.

Mills County Cowboy Church Pastor, Kent Battenfield Sundays, 10:30 a.m. Worship Service Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Bible study 2 Miles South of Goldthwaite 325-451-4016 Nueva Iglesia Cristiana 1101 Weaver St. Rafael Rodriguez, Pastor Domingo 10:00 a.m. Escuela Dominical 6:00 p.m. Culto de Adoracion Jueves 7:00 p.m. Culto de Adoracion Western Heritage Cowboy Church “The Log Cabin Church” Glenn Murray, Pastor 188 US Hwy 84 West Goldthwaite, Tx 76844 Sunday, 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.

325-648-2656 Fellowship Baptist Church Stewart Farrell, Pastor Sunday School, 9:45 a.m.

Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

Evening Worship, 7:00 p.m.

Awana Clubs, Sunday 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday Services, 7:00 p.m.

Church of Christ Sunday Bible Study, 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship, 10:50 a.m.

Evening Worship, 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Services, 7:00 p.m.

Assembly of God Church Jack Vaughn, Pastor Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

Evening Worship, 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Service, 7:00 p.m

Berean Christadelphians Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.

Memorial Meeting, 11:00 a.m.

Bible Study, 1:15 p.m.

Every Fourth Sunday, 1:30 Bible Lecture Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. Bible Study Crossroads Country Church Curtis Bankston 220 US Highway 84 West Sunday 10:30 am Wednesday 7:00 pm 800-824-3146

Center City United Methodist Church Tim Birkner, Pastor Worship Service, 8:30 a.m.

Sunday School, 9:30 a.m.

Baptist Church Dallas Huston, Pastor Sunday School, 9:45 a.m.

Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

Mullin Baptist Church Richard Ivy, Pastor Sunday School, 9:45 a.m.

Morning Worship, 10:50 a.m.

Evening Worship, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study, Adult, 7:00 p.m.; Youthquake 6:30 Methodist Church Beth Bowyer, Pastor Morning Worship, 9:15 a.m.

Bible study, 10 a.m. Wednesday Sunday School for children, 9:30 a.m.

GEESLIN GAS COMPANY Residential & Commercial Propane Delivery service Tank & Cylinder Repair • Tank Leasing & Cylinder Refilling 212 US Hwy 84 W. • Goldthwaite, Tx

325-648-2712

Eastside Church of Christ Services Sundays at 10:30 am and 6:00 p.m.

Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.

Priddy Zion Lutheran Church Sunday School, 9:15 a.m.

Morning Worship, 10:30 a.m.

Baptist Church Butch Pesch, Pastor (Services every Sunday) Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m Pompey Mountain Church David Gilley, Pastor Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

No Church on Fifth Sundays Dinner on the Grounds on Second Sunday of Each Month

Star Church of Christ T.A. Mulholland, Minister Bible Study, 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship, 10:45 a.m.

Baptist Church Doyle Combs, Pastor Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

United Methodist Church Pastor Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship, 11:00 a.m.

Mt. Olive Primitive Baptist Church Elder James E. Robertson Rt. 2, Box 34M - Hamilton, Texas 76531 Services each third Sunday at 11:00 a.m.

Page 42 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

SERVICE FEED MILL FEED - SEED - FERTILIZER DEER CORN - WILDLIFE FEEDS BULK DEER FEED & CUBES

Priddy, Texas

325-966-3545 If we don’t ha We’ll Get ve it, It!

Pictured above are Carson Seely,Andie McCasland, Kathryn Seely, and Grant McCasland (L to R), the grandchildren of DeWayne and Patty McCasland of Mills County, clean up the roadsides on a two-mile strip near the McCaslands’ on FM 2005 home northeast of Goldthwaite.

During this hunting season, and all year round, the kiddos say, “Please help keep our Mills County roadsides clean!”

Everything for the Outdoors at

Prices that are Hard to Beat!

All Types of Guns & Ammo • Deer Stands & Feeders Fencing Supplies • Pipe • Tires • Power Tools • Welding Supplies Trailers • Well Supplies & More

HardwarE 325-948-3638 • 325-948-3354 Downtown Center City, Texas

Rancher’s Roadhouse 707 Fisher St. • Goldthwaite North of the Park

325-648-3900

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 43

Tips on Blood Trailing Your Trophy Oftentimes your hunt really begins once you've shot or arrowed a deer. Only after you've recovered the animal can you call your hunt a success. Let's look at 10 steps to help you locate your downed whitetail.

1) Look.

As soon as you squeeze the trigger on your bow or rifle, watch the reaction of the deer, especially the deer's tail. A raised tail means you may have missed the deer. If the deer's tail points out, you more than likely have hit the deer. A deer with a tucked tail generally means you have a good hit. After watching the deer for as far as you can see him travel, pick-out a landmark that you can find at ground level where you've last spotted the deer.

2) Listen.

If you don't see the deer go-down, listen to see if you can hear the deer stumble and fall. Often you can hear a deer fall, when you can't see it. Try to determine exactly from where you think the sound has originated.

Listen for any-other sounds that may indicate the movement of the deer.

3) Wait.

If the deer has fallen, it won't go anywhere. If you've only wounded the deer, by waiting, you'll give the deer a chance to succumb. If you don't wait, you may startle the wounded deer, causing him to jump-up and run-off. Oftentimes the longer you delay your search for the deer, the more your odds will increase for recovering that animal.

4) Get a bearing.

Before you leave your tree stand or ground blind, use your compass or global positioning system (GPS) receiver to mark the direction of flight the deer takes away from your tree stand to the last point where you've spotted the deer. Take another bearing to mark the place where you think you've heard the deer fall, because the terrain may look differently once you're at ground level. Taking these bearings will help you stay on-course as you travel from your stand to where you expect to recover your deer.

5) Identify the point of impact.

When you leave your stand, go directly to the spot where you think the shot has hit the deer. Search for hair, blood, bone and stomach content. The hair you discover often will tell you where the shot has hit the deer. The deer's shortest and darkest hair covers the top of his back; his stomach will have the lightest-colored and longest hair; and he will have short white hairs under his chin, inside his ears

and on his tail. Too, if you locate blood with air bubbles in it, you've more than likely made a lung shot. If you find stomach content, you've probably hit the deer low and may need to wait several hours before you begin tracking the animal. Try to obtain all the information you can from the place where you've hit the deer.

6) Follow blood and tracks.

If there's no blood trail, you may have to rely on tracks and what you've already seen and heard to find your buck. Study the tracks of the animal, noting the size and shape. Identify any characteristics that will help you distinguish this deer's track from another's.

7) Leave a flagging-tape trail Leaving flagging tape enables you to see the deer's direction of travel. You also can find your way back to your tree stand and the last place where you've located the deer's blood with flagging tape.

8) Go slow.

Many hunters fail to find the deer they've shot because they hurry too much and lose the trails. Go as slowly as required to stay on the trail, even if you have to get on your hands and knees to search for pinheadsized drops of blood or study tracks.

9) Look up.

Oftentimes you may find no blood on the ground. But if you'll look up, you may pinpoint blood waist-high on trees, bushes and leaves, due to the surrounding foliage smearing-off the running deer's blood before it can fall to the ground, especially if you've made a lung shot.

10) Know what to do when the blood runs-out or the trail stops.

When the blood trail ends, and I no can longer find a trail, I hang flagging tape as high in the tree as possible to allow me to see it from a long distance. Then I begin to walk in a circle, expanding the radius of the circle with each revolution.

If you have a GPS receiver that will mark a trail as you walk in a circle, you can see on the receiver's screen where you've walked. Many times when the deer's trail runs-out, you'll discover the deer within 100 yards of the trail's end. Knowing that a wounded deer often tries to bury-up in thick cover, thoroughly check-out downed trees, brush piles and any other thick-cover areas within that 100-yard circle. Also, continue scanning for tracks and blood while you walk the circle.

I may follow a deer for four hours or longer using these steps before recovering the animal. These tactics will work for you too.

Page 44 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Fisher Street Bed & Breakfast

Features:

Cahoots Cafe 1418 Fisher St. Goldthwaite 325-648-3909 El Tapatio 1903 Fisher Street Goldthwaite 325-648-2900

Continental Breakfast Wireless Cable TV Wi-Fi available

Dairy Queen 1140 US Hwy. 84 Goldthwaite 325-648-3325

Suzanne Doggett

325-938-5247 or 325-938-6619

Local & Area Dining Guide

1402 Fisher St. Goldthwaite, Tx

www.fisherstreetbedandbreakfast.com

Mary’s Tacos & Burgers Hwy. 183 S. Goldthwaite 325-648-3839 Circle V BBQ Hwy. 183 S. 325-648-7200 Diggs Hwy 190 East San Saba

Welcome Hunters!

Good Home Cooked A Texas Monthly TopFood 40 in a Family Atmosphere Small Town Cafe 1206 Fisher St. - Goldthwaite

325/648-3708

Sandy’s Cafe Highway 84/183 Mullin, TX Peabody’s 1206 Fisher St. Goldthwaite 325-648-3708

Rancher’s Roadhouse 707 Fisher Street Goldthwaite 325-648-3900 Schwartz Food Store 1500 Fisher St. Goldthwaite 325-648-3313 Priddy Store Downtown Priddy 325-966-3547 Duke’s Place Downtown Star 325-948-3339 Subway 1110 Fisher St. Goldthwaite 325-648-3355 Wagon Wheel 1004 Fisher St. Goldthwaite 325-648-3535 Pepperbellys’ Hwy. 190 in San Saba 325-372-4462 Diamond R 11801 Hwy. 84 East Zephyr 325-739-2068

Welcome Hunters!

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 45

Comanche Appliance 325-356-2050 1209 E. Central - Comanche

HD

Freezers Refrigerators Washers & Dryers Dishwashers Electric & Gas Ranges Mattresses Full Line of Furniture & TVs

Sales - Service - Parts on ALL BRANDS OF APPLIANCES

Call Today

325-356-2050

Page 46 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

I’ll Rattle the Antlers... You Shoot

By Steven Bridges After four days of being inside the house opening gifts, cooking and washing dishes during Christmas, I was ready for some time outside in the woods. I get a little cabin fever after a few days inside.

So as soon as all the eating and opening was over, Debra and I got my mom, Georgie to baby-sit our then 3-year-old Amber for an afternoon so we could go deer hunting.

The weather was crisp, clear and still as we got out of the truck to hunt. We planned to try to rattle up a buck, so we got into camo from head to toe.

I handed Debra my AR-15 rifle and told her, “I’ll rattle the antlers... you shoot.”

Debra, five months pregnant at the time and in full camo, looked down at the rifle and then up at me and asked, “how does this thing work anyway?”

I forgot she had never fired one of my “black” guns. So, I gave her the five cent tour of the AR-15 rifle. She was satisfied so we slipped into the tall grass to rattle.

The first spot we came to was in the grass next to some thick brush. Debra kneeled down in front of me. I waited a few minutes before I started to rattle. Debra was looking for

deer, not at me.

When I banged the antlers together, she nearly jumped out of her camo. We had a good giggle over it. I promised to warn her next time before beginning.

A minute or two after rattling, a nice eight-point buck pranced out of the bush looking for a fight. He was too young to shoot but he was fun to watch.

We moved to another place as shooting light waned. We had to stand up to see in the tall grass as I rattled the antlers together. I looked up from rattling to see a big buck looking right at us in the tall grass. I tapped Debra on the shoulder and she jumped again. This time, I turned Debra’s shoulders toward the buck and said, “You’d better shoot him quick!” The setting sun shined off his slick coat and his breath formed big clouds out of his nostrils. He could not see us because of our camo.

I kept my binoculars on the buck as Debra slowly put the Debra Bridges shot this nice eleven point AR-15 on her trusty shooting stick. I kept my eyes on the buck buck at the XTC Graves Ranch in Mills while I waited for Debra to pull the trigger.

County two seasons ago while hunting When she finally shot, it was my turn to jump. As always, nice shot, Honey. with her husband, Steve.

HALE TITLE ,Inc.

Hunting For Parts?

Gerald Hale - Attorney -

Welcome

Hunters

325-648-2233

1412 Fisher Street - Goldthwaite, Texas

Major

Auto Parts

920 Fisher Street in Goldthwaite

325-648-3312

Welcome Hunters

McMahan Pharmacy Services, Inc.

Your LOCAL Source for: 3 Custom Compounding 3 Pain Management 3 Hormone Therapy for Women 3 Hormone Therapy for Men 3 Adrenal/Thyroid Dysfunction 3 Palliative Care 3 Pediatrics 3 Podiatry 3 Sports Medicine Follow us on 3 Wound Care Facebook 3 Dentistry 3 Veterinary & More Independently owned in Goldthwaite, Texas since 1975, McMahan Pharmacy Services has developed a new paradigm of pharmacy services.

Health and wellness counseling, authoritative advice on supplements and nutrition, homeopathic recommendations, access to naturopaths, and private consultations on a variety of health topics are available through the pharmacy.

Our state-of-the-art prescription compounding facilities, experience in human and veterinary compounding, and warmly holistic approach truly set us apart.

Go to Our Web Site & Download Our

FREE APP

www.McMahanPharmacy.com 503 W. Front Street • Goldthwaite, Texas 76844

325-648-2484 • Toll Free 877-877-3781 Fax: 325-648-3417 • Email: info@mcmahanpharmacy.com Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm • Saturday 8:30am – 12:00pm

Use Your iPhone or Android Device to Refill Your Prescription, Shop & More - 24 Hours a Day!

Page 48 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

The Mills County ‘Big Betting Buck’

By Steven Bridges her own right. She could, in time, bag a big buck on her own. But, she was asking I’ll tell you right up front that I am not a pro hunting guide, but I do like to take for my help in just a few days. So, I committed myself to helping her right then and people hunting. After years of hunting solo, I can truly say that it is more fun for me there. to watch someone else take a deer than take one myself.

The first thing I did was call her dad, Dr. Tom Cody Graves and warn him. I was I have the luxury of being able to throw camo clothes on, jump in the truck going to spread the responsibility of Lisa’s bet around the family a little if I could. with my rifle and be deer hunting in 20 minutes. Somehow, the process of getting “Don’t shoot any big bucks,” I said when he answered the phone. “Lisa made a ready for a solo hunt so fast robs me of the thrill of anticipation. If I go hunting by bet with her boss over who could bag the biggest buck this weekend, and we are myself and don’t see a single deer, that’s okay with me. At least I got out of the of- supposed to help her win it.” fice for a few hours and relaxed in the woods. Just sitting quietly for a while with Tom didn’t miss a beat. He said, “No offense Steve, but I’ll call Ricky.” Ricky Prescott was our Ranch Manager at the time on the Graves family ranch near Caradan in no distractions is its own reward most of the time.

This is not the case when I bring another hunter with me. Anyone who has taken northeast Mills County. He was on the ranch nearly every day and saw more of the a friend hunting knows that deer seem to vanish when you bring a guest. Fields ranch than Tom or I did. chock full of deer seem to become bare when your reputation as a hunter is on Ricky told Tom that all three of us should sit in a ground blind in a draw on the edge of an oat field the next Saturday morning. He said a big buck had been enthe line.

It raises the bar to take someone hunting with you. You can’t tell any lies about tering the field up that draw for the last few mornings looking for does to breed. how many deer you saw or how big the bucks were when there is someone else So, Tom called me back with our plan for the hunt. We’d all get up extra early Saturday morning, slip into the blind and hope Ricky was right about the big buck. there to verify your story. You’d better produce the goods if you decide to guide.

I love seeing the look of anticipation on the face of a hunter as we drive up to I told Tom, “You know, if this works, we are going to have to give Ricky credit for the gate of the ranch where we’re going to hunt. helping us get Lisa her buck.”

I love to see the excitement on the hunter’s face Tom laughed, “I know... and Ricky won’t even when we first spot deer. And, I really enjoy the have to get up early!” So, true to plan, Lisa, Tom and process of lining up the shot and hopefully makI got up around 4:00 am and drove out to the ranch. ing a clean harvest. The entire process is enjoySince I was ‘guiding’ I didn’t take a rifle, only binocuable to me. lars. I was to be the eyes of the group. My job was The taking of the animal is often a little antito judge any bucks we might see to determine if he climactic for me. It means the hunt is over and was a shooter or not. the work of dressing the deer is about to begin.

We chose to park over a half mile away from the However, when we walk up to the harvested field and walk quietly to the ground blind. Hopedeer and I see the hunter’s look of excitement, fully, our early and quiet entry into the stand would I’m always left with an overall feeling of satisfacallow the woods to settle down before shooting tion and accomplishment. light. We didn’t want to leave anything the chance.

Every once in a while, I’m involved in a hunt When we got out of the truck, Lisa uncased her that goes just as planned. Or at least, that’s what Mauser bolt-action. 22- 250 rifle custom made for her by the late Benny Schriver. Benny was the I tell myself. More likely, I just get lucky sometimes. It started when Dr. Lisa Graves Thompson, Game Warden for Mills County for years and was a my sister-in-law, made a little wager with her wonderful custom gun maker and gunsmith. The. boss on who would bag the biggest buck one 22-250 is Lisa’s ‘go-to’ rifle for deer hunting in Mills weekend last season. Lisa at that time was a docCounty. tor of physical therapy at a clinic in Abilene. And, Tom shouldered his little. 243 semiautomatic rifle the bet was for a day off where the loser would ‘just in case’ even though we both knew that if Lisa see the other’s patients for a day. So, I guess the was within range of a big buck, a follow-up shot wager was not so “little” after all. would not be necessary. Our blind was a pop-up Right after she made the wager with her boss, tent style. she called me and said “Steve, I don’t ask you for There was adequate room inside for three huntmuch. But I’m asking you to find me a huge buck ers. We each had a little chair and a window to see this weekend.” through. Cozy... A few minutes after we all got situ It was obvious from the beginning that losing ated, I heard Tom start quietly snoring in his chair. was not an option for Lisa. The laid back hunter Lisa and I had a little chuckle between ourselves in in me began to get pretty nervous. All of a sudthe darkness. den the pressure of ‘guiding’ seemed to weigh Continued... on me. True, Lisa is an accomplished hunter in Lisa Graves Thompson with her Betting Buck.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 49 The next thing I knew Lisa elbowed me in the ribs. I woke up out of a dead sleep. The light inside the little blind was still very sparse, but the early gray of legal shooting light could be seen out the windows of the blind. I could just make out Lisa smiling from ear to ear with wide eyes.

I knew instantly that I’d hear about that later. But the big whites of her eyes told me that she was too excited to laugh at me right then. There was something more important on her mind. Lisa said in an excited whisper, “Wake up Rip Van Winkle. A big buck just walked into the field! ” Lisa then poked Tom out of his slumber.

The next minute or so was whispered, shuffling chaos inside our little blind. I groped in the semi darkness for my binoculars while Tom and Lisa got their rifles up.

By the time I had my binos trained on the big buck, Tom had his rifle up and rested on his trusty little shooting stick. Lisa was still getting her rifle up, when I heard the little ‘click’ of Tom’s safety.

I pulled away from the binoculars and tapped Tom’s shoulder. “This is Lisa’s buck remember! ” I whispered. “Put your rifle on safety and give Lisa your shooting stick. She needs a good rest. ” Tom sighed and handed his shooting stick to Lisa, who had her rifle awkwardly propped up on her knees. “That’s the biggest buck I’ve ever seen, ” said Tom. I turned to Lisa and whispered, “No pressure, Lisa! ” It was my turn to smile.

Lisa turned to Tom, “Back me up Dad. ” Tom said, “Sure. ” As Lisa settled her cheek on the rifle stock and looked into the scope, I gave her just one piece of advice.

“He is just over 100 yards away, ” I said. “Just focus your crosshairs right behind his shoulder and squeeze the trigger. ” I turned and put my eyes back into my binoculars. I could hear Lisa slowing her breathing down for the shot. Next, she clicked her safety off.

It seemed like forever until her rifle finally went off. I was burning a hole into the buck’s shoulder with my eyes wishing Lisa’s shot on target.

When Lisa’s. 22-250 shook the silence, I clearly saw her bullet make a solid hit on the buck. The buck faltered at the shot and stumbled into the tall bluestem grass on the edge of the field. Tom needed not worry about a follow up shot. That buck was a dead deer running.

I was confident Lisa made a good shot, but we waited quietly in the blind for about 20 minutes before trailing the buck. We found the deer only a short way into the tall grass on the edge of the oat field. Lisa had made a perfect shot, placing her bullet right behind the buck’s shoulder.

All three of us just stood there for a few moments taking in the size of the big eleven-point buck. He was even bigger than I expected. The weight of guiding Lisa lifted off my shoulders and a big smile broke across my face. I looked up to see Lisa and Tom high-five. That excitement that I so love was on both their faces.

After some photos, one of which graces the cover of this year’s Mills County Hunting Guide, we field dressed and loaded the deer up into the back of Tom’s truck.

As we drove out of the ranch, I asked Lisa, “So, what are you going to do on your day off? ”

Visit The Gun Shop at...

Pistols • Rifles Shotguns • Scopes Binoculars & More

Buck Labay

Downtown Goldthwaite, Tx / 325-648-2515 / Open Mon. - Sat. 7-6

Firearms Specialist

Page 50 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Mike Williams took this 130 B&C ten point buck a few miles southwest of Goldthwaite last season. Mike had originally gone hunting to take a cull doe or buck. But, when this buck stepped out, Mike went into ‘trophy hunting mode.’

JACKIE WILLIAMS REAL ESTATE

www.jwre.net

Office: 325-648-2796

Toll Free: 877-648-2796

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR

HUNTING

LAND

GIVE US A CALL!

Ann Stegemoller, Realtor, 254-216-1174, ann@armstx.com Mike Williams, Broker, 254-319-0724, mike@armstx.com

We Appreciate Your Business!

Mike Seidenberger of Bangs took this 11-point buck on the Sterling Ranch in Mills County last hunting season at a distance of 120 yards with a 30 ought 6.

325/648-3324 M Cell 325/938-7538

Randy Cobb / Concrete 1108 Weaver St. Goldthwaite, Texas 76844

WELCOME HUNTERS!

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 51

MILLS COUNTY MEAT COMPANY DEER PROCESSING Mills County Meat Company Parker

Thrid St.

Fourth St.

Courthouse Square

Hwy. 183 & 16 - Fisher Street Est. # 384

RECEIVING DEER 7 DAYS A WEEK Welcome DURING DEER SEASON! Hunters!

Serving SERVING Mills MILLSCounty COUNTY FOR OVER For OVER

57 Years!

YEARS! 66 PROCESSING WILL BE AT YOUR REQUEST

PROFESSIONAL CAPING FOR SHOULDER MOUNTS AVAILABLE

To Check in a deer ANYTIME, call 325-938-6156

1119 Parker Street Texas • 325-648-3111 • 325-648-6328 1119 Parker St.• Goldthwaite, • Goldthwaite, Texas • 325-648-3111

Page 52 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Looking for a place to view some bucks?

Rural Land Loans Country Home Loans Farm & Ranch Loans Livestock & Equipment Loans Operating Capital Real Estate Appraisal Services

We’re the answer.

Agribusiness Financing

Capital Farm Credit has made agricultural production, real estate and agribusiness loans for 95 years. As a cooperative, we are proud to return almost 100 percent of our net earnings back to our customers through our patronage program.

Leasing

Credit Offices in Goldthwaite & San Saba

888.253.0102

T E X A S ’

L A R G E S T

CapitalFarmCredit.com R U R A L

L E N D E R

Mary’s Tacos & Burgers welcome hunters!

Hwy. 183 S. • Goldthwaite • 325-648-3839

Deer Processing $

75

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 53

Rafter B Ranch Country Lodging in Beautiful Mills County Located on 1,000 Acres Just West of Goldthwaite Fishing Ponds • Wildlife Galore • Peaceful Setting

Weddings - Retreats - Reunions - Nightly Rates

Basic Processing

Custom Slaughtering Beef, and Pork

•Clean Facility • Friendly Staff • Quality Work Freezer Packs and Sides of Beef for Sale

HAMILTON QUALITY MEATS 1205 S. Rice - Hamilton - 254-386-4646

432-639-2992 or 325-938-7404

www.rafterbranchhouse.com

Rountree

Electric HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING TACLB001591

Electrical Contractor Lic. #19351

••••

Jerry Rountree

325-648-3610

3 Free Wireless Internet 3 Mini-Fridge 3 Coffee Pot 3 Free Cable TV 3 Smoking & Non-Smoking

1501 Fisher Street • Goldthwaite, Texas

325-648-3061

Page 54 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Tips & Tricks for Taking Kids Along

By Steven Bridges While you may not hunt the same way as you would when you’re by yourself or out with your best hunting/ fishing buddy, taking kids into the outdoors is very rewarding. It takes a little more effort, but it’s well worth it.

Some of my fondest childhood memories were of hunting trips with my dad. I especially remember being Dad’s dove retriever, happily running out to get the doves he shot down. I can also remember the early mornings when Dad would load my brother and me into his truck well before daylight, and carry us one at a time, wrapped in a blanket, into the deer blind so we could sleep while he waited for that first deer sighting. When he saw the deer, he’d wake us up. He even lined the floor of the deer blind with some old 1970s shag carpet so we’d be more comfortable.

I was lucky to be brought up in the outdoors, and I feel it’s very important that the love of the outdoors be shared with the next generation.

I’ve been taking kids with me into the field for years and I’ve accumulated quite a list of tips and tricks that I’ve shared with my friends who want to take their kids into the outdoors. My wife and I have learned that taking kids into the field requires a “tool box,” and the more tools you have, the more fun and rewarding the entire trip will be.

First, always have toilet paper on hand for obvious reasons. Their bladders aren’t as big as ours, and they always need to go at the most inopportune times. Also, when you’re shooting, a small wad of toilet paper can make a good ear plug in a pinch.

But even better are the packages of disposable earplugs you can get at any store for a couple of bucks. I have little packages of earplugs stuffed in every gun case and tackle box and tool box I own. And if you ask me why earplugs

are so important, you’ll have to speak up because I grew up in a time when earplugs weren’t in vogue.

I’ve found the ear muffs that go over the whole ear get hot and kids don’t like them. The electronic ear muffs, though, are in the $30 range, and the benefit of using them is you don’t have to yell at the top of your lungs to get a kid’s attention, and once the kids are

three or four sheets of construction paper of different colors, and fold them into a little booklet we call “the observation journal.” With some markers and tape, the kids make the journal by drawing what they’ve seen while out hunting or fishing. They can also tape flowers, leaves and other things into the journal, and over time the collection becomes a history of your outdoor

A few tips and tricks can help make your Mills County outdoor experience fun for kids and rewarding for parents.

used to them, they enjoy them.

Sunglasses, bug spray and sunscreen are all necessary items, but in addition to that, it doesn’t hurt to have some little chairs and tables, some games, books, snacks, and drinks to keep the kids occupied when the doves aren’t flying, and the deer aren’t around. Kids have a short attention span, generally speaking, so you have to adjust to their needs.

One thing Debra and I do is take

excursions. It’s amazing to see what happens to be important to the kids when you look at their journals afterward. You can catch a 10-pound bass, and the kid will draw a picture of the rod and reel. It gives you a look into the kid’s mind, and how it differs from an adult’s mind.

For kids a little older, our emphasis has always been to “unplug,” or to have a cell-phone, iPod, video game free experience. It becomes a time to commu-

nicate with each other and learn how to observe nature and use your five senses in the “real world.” When your dove hunt gets rained out, though, and you’re stuck in the truck for hours waiting, all rules go out the window, and the outdoor doctor would recommend “apply electronic gizmos as needed.”

Debra and I also trade off when dove hunting. One of us drives the kids around to look at animals and flowers, etc., while the other one hunts.

Then about every 30 minutes or so, we switch. During the handoff, you have about five minutes to hunt together while the kids are distracted, but then when they get antsy again, it’s time to split up and head out.

Lastly, kids love dirt and mud. After getting my truck mudded from the inside out by the kids a few times, my wife and I came up with a strategy that takes the stress out of cleaning up after the outdoor adventure. We picked up some free carpet squares (free samples from the carpet store), and we take a couple jugs of water, a towel and some clean, dry clothes. (Don’t forget the underwear.) When we’re done for the day, we put the kids on the carpet square by the truck and give them a quick “field bath.” Then we dry them off, put their pajamas on them, and stick them in the truck.

After spending all day outside, the first thing they do when they get back in the truck is fall asleep in about the first 60 seconds of the drive home, so this saves you the headache of having to wake them back up to get cleaned up at home. You can just carry them, clean and dry, still sleeping, from the truck to their beds. And as anyone with small children knows, having tired-out kiddos who fall asleep in the truck on the way home is reason enough alone to take them out with you.

Whether it’s a trophy-size buck or a long list of chores, Kubota RTVs deliver all-out performance and value.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 55

Pick your options: Diesel or gas. Two seats or four. Open air or factory-installed cab. Kubota orange or Realtree® hardwoods camo. Whichever RTV you choose, you’ll get more bang for your buck … with a utility vehicle that works hard today and holds its value tomorrow. Check one out today.

Moore's Service Center 1425 US Hwy. 84 East Star, TX 76880 (325) 948-3595

www.kubota.com

Optional equipment may be shown. ©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2013 Realtree® is a registered trademark of Jordan Outdoor Enterprises, Ltd.

More Bang for Your Bucks Or whatever else you’re hunting for.

Whether it’s a trophy-size buck or a long list of chores, Kubota RTVs deliver all-out performance and value.

Pick your options: Diesel or gas. Two seats or four. Open air or factory-installed cab. Kubota orange or Realtree® hardwoods camo. Whichever RTV you choose, you’ll get more bang for your buck … with a utility vehicle that works hard today and holds its value tomorrow. Check one out today.

More Bang for Your Bucks

Moore's Service Center

MOORE’S

SERVICE CENTER

1425 US Hwy. 84 East Or whatever else you’re hunting for.

Star, TX 76880 (325) Whether it’s a trophy-size buck or a 948-3595 long list of chores, Kubota RTVs deliver all-out performance and value.

Hwy. 84 E. in Star, Tx • 325-948-3595

Pick your options: Diesel or gas. Two seats or four. Open air or factory-installed cab. Kubota orange or Realtree® hardwoods camo. Whichever RTV you choose, you’ll get more bang for your buck … with a utility vehicle that www.kubota.com equipment may be shown. works hard today Optional and holds its value tomorrow. Check one out today. ©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2013 Realtree® is a registered trademark of Jordan Outdoor Enterprises, Ltd.

Page 56 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Try ‘Shedding’ Your Hunting Withdrawal Shed hunting is a great way to extend your deer season. Most deer hunters are suffering from a severe case of cabin fever by the time March rolls around. Shed hunting is a lot of fun, helps you learn more about the property you hunt, and is a good way to inventory bucks that survived the season and the winter. Here are some great tips for finding more sheds the next time you're in the field.

Check Your Trail Cameras Trail Cameras are a great help during deer season. They allow you to keep tabs on deer using your property. Trail cameras tell you where travel routes are and where deer are feeding and bedding. Most importantly, trail camera photos can provide evidence of bucks shedding antlers. The last thing you want to do is start shed hunting before antlers have started shedding. Walking through the woods will push deer onto neighboring properties. They will come back but time spent on neighboring property is time they could be dropping their antlers. Don't start shed hunting until bucks start showing up on your trail cameras photos without antlers.

Pack Your Bag Most hunters in whitetail states spend hunting days on their butt. Shed hunting is a walking sport. You're going to need something to drink and perhaps a few snacks. Bring along a backpack to carry your refreshments and more importantly, your sheds. Most people don't realize how awkward it is to carry antlers until they have three or four in their hands.

Take Your Time Unlike deer, sheds won't run away.

Shed hunters often walk right past sheds in the woods and fields. Bucks spend a lot of time in thick cover. These

over. If a buck jumps over the fence, the shock of landing will often knock an antler off. He can also lose an antler if he ducks under a fence. In most cases, you can also hunt a field as you walk the fence line.

Find The Food Shed hunting food plots and other deer feeding areas is a good idea for two reasons. First off, deer spend a lot of time feeding during the winter and early spring. Secondly, bucks will move their heads up and down frequently while feeding. This motion is often enough to shake an antler loose.

Go To Bed Deer survive the winter going from bedding area to feeding area. If they're not feeding, they are conserving energy. Obviously, you don't want to spend a lot of time in deer bedding areas. Checking for sheds once a year is acceptable but do your scouting while you're there. Keep visits in bedding areas to a minimum.

Stuart Bridges shows off a pair of Mills County trophy whitetail sheds he found while walking in the woods last spring. thick areas take time to work through and antlers can be hard to find. When looking for deer in the stand, many hunters say to look for deer parts. A flicking tail or the flash of an antler is all a hunter may initially see. Shed hunt the same way. Stop and look around for things that resemble antlers.

Look For The Sun The first question someone getting started in shed hunting will ask is where to start. My answer is, it depends. Start in open areas on sunny days. Picked crop fields and meadows are the places to go. Antlers will glisten in the sun and

will be easier to spot from a distance.

On overcast days, sheds tend to blend in with corn or soybean stubble. On the other hand, sunny days lead to a lot of shadows in the woods. It is easier to spot sheds when there are no shadows in the woods. Don't avoid one or the other based on the sun but focus your efforts where a successful hunt is most likely.

Walk The Line One of my favorite tactics for shed hunting is walking a fence line. Bucks can lose their antlers on a fence in two ways, bumping the fence or jumping

Get A Pair If you find one shed, there is a good chance the other is close by. When trailing a wounded deer, a hunter should work in concentric circles from the last blood spotted. Do the same thing after finding a shed. I'll often find a matching antler within 75 to 100 yards of the first.

10. Take A Kid

As a hunter, passing on your knowledge and traditions to the younger generation should be a priority. Shed hunting is a great way to introduce a kid to the outdoors. Gun safety isn't an issue and it usually takes a while to get cold or bored. Most kids really like walking through the woods. Point out droppings, rubs, and anything else that shows evidence of wildlife in the woods.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 57

Dry Weather Means Good Dove Hunting

By Steven Bridges Dry conditions don’t necessarily equate to bad dove hunting, wildlife biologists with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department suggest. An extended drought across much of Texas could be beneficial for dove hunters as birds will have to rely upon limited resources.

Water, especially in close proximity to dove feeding areas, should be at a premium heading into the Sept. 1 dove season opener.

“Dove hunting over a water source should be excellent,” said Corey Mason, TPWD dove program leader. “Additionally, dove may be concentrated on food sources, so if you can find a stand of sunflower, goat weed, etc., hunting should be productive.

Native food sources are going to be more important this year because agricultural crops aren’t as good as years past.”

It is still too hot to get excited about much during the first part of September. Still, many hunters visit our county to set up deer stands and feeders and set up deer camp. Most bring their shotgun along just in cast the doves are “in.”

Mills County usually relies on a cool Norther to blow doves in from the North for good shooting. I have noticed more and more resident doves in my very informal, preseason dove scouting. Both whitewings and mourning doves seem to be on the rise in our area. Great news for area hunters. Also, good news for area merchants, who rely on hunters to leave a little of their money in Mills County.

Every dollar a hunter spends in Mills County bounces around the county an average of five times before leaving. For example, a group of hunters goes into a restaurant and spend $50. The restaurant owner takes that $50 to buy groceries at a local grocery store. The grocer spends the $50 buying flowers in town for his wife for her birthday, etc., etc. This money would not be present had it not been for the hunters. Merchants in Mills County try to make the hunters feel extra welcome in Mills County each year. It is not only the neighborly thing to do... it is just good business.

Part of dove hunting’s popularity stems from the timing of the season, which marks the end of a long, hot summer and the beginning of the fall huntHUNTING ing season. Many deer hunters open their camps and begin filling feeders on Labor Day weekend, and a dove hunt adds interest and some tasty eating. This year, Sept. 1 falls on a Sunday so most dove hunters will hit the field Labor Day weekend.

Food sources and water concentrate doves, and TPWD biologists recommend keying on harvested grain fields and natural food sources such as sunflowers and croton. Flight paths between DOVE HUNTING areas and food and water DAY LEASE available roosting sources produce the best shooting. Aron 140 Acres with eas south of San Antonio and around Uvalde and Brownwood generally hold Sunflowers. doves throughout the season. Hill Country counties such as Mills, Hamilton and Lampasas usually furnish good hunting.

DOVE

Call Code at 512-963-5160

A .410 took down this collared-dove near Goldthwaite last season. Dry weather so far this year means doves will be congregating around water holes.

Page 58 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Field Care Tips for Your Trophy

By Mike Elliott This may be your year for the wall-hanger buck or other trophy you have been after for some time and you should have a plan of how you are going to take care of it until it reaches its proper destination.

This includes skinning, if necessary, and taking care of the hide. An overall piece of advice, “treat it like you are going to eat it.” Often the meat is taken much better care of than the trophy’s hide, which will be used for the mount.

If this information is old hat to you, quit reading now and go sight in your pet rifle.

First, let’s consider getting the hide off the animal’s body so that it is in the best possible condition. If you have access to a walk-in cooler, let the animal hang a couple of days before skinning to allow the body fluids, mainly blood, time to set-up

so that a cleaner job results. Then have a plan so that the part of the hide which is to be on the mount has the fewest cuts on it (I mean intentional cuts, not accidental ones) as this will result in the best possible mount.

For a shoulder mount of animal, there are only three cuts that should be made!

The first is to locate the aft end of the animal’s sternum or breast bone and move back 4 to 6 inches toward the animal’s rear and cut straight around the body.

The other two cuts are on the front legs.

About six inches below the body on each leg, make a cut around the leg. These three cuts will now make the cape resemble a T-shirt the animal is wearing (hopefully with the head still attached).

Now, simply skin the cape over the body up to the base of the head and

CA E F

325-985-FOOD (3663)

S

Hwy 84 in Mullin

’S

d An y

Come By For Daily Specials!

sever the neck (not the hide) leaving the T-shirt attached to the head. Roll the hide up tightly, hair-side out, and place it in a double bag of plastic, expelling as much air as possible. During this skinning process, it is better to leave meat on the hide than holes in it, if you aren’t a really good skinner. The taxidermist will really appreciate this.

Next, place the bagged hide in a freezer until you can deliver it to your taxidermist, and take it to him as soon as possible. The freezer will protect your hide from spoiling but it is also the enemy in that it will suck the moisture out of the hide and render it useless after some period of time; this time period is dependent on the particular freezer and how well the hide is wrapped.

This has been a very basic caping process, so let us consider some other do’s and don’ts: • Never wrap a warm hide in plastic as this will retain heat and accelerate spoilage.

• Keep the hide as dry as possible to retard the growth of bacteria and spoilage.

• Don’t salt a hide if you are going to freeze it very soon. Salt can be used if the

You have more important things to do than worry about your heating and air conditioning...

••• Let us take care of all your heating and air conditioning needs.

Wilson Heating & Cooling 325-648-3661

408 Miller • Goldthwaite • TECL 19287 - Lic # TACLA001494C

Serving Mills & surroundin g counties sin ce 1976

hide can only be kept cool for an extended period.

• Keep the hide, especially the meat side, as free from dirt, leaves, and other matter as possible.

For other animals such as foxes, bobcats, snakes, birds, etc. do not make any cuts on the hide; rather get the animal cooled out as soon as possible then double bag and freeze, keep them dry. (The rule here is if you aren’t going to eat it, don’t cut it.)

For birds, keeping the feathers dry and in place is imperative and one of your wife’s (or your own) nylon stockings will be perfect to slip the bird in to, head first.

Then double bag and freeze.

If a trophy fish is on your agenda, you have a couple of choices. If you plan to catch and release or catch and eat, simply make several measurements on length and girth (in several places) for your taxidermist and have a fiberglass replica made - fiberglass will last forever. If you must have your fish’s skin on your mount, wrap the fish in a wet towel, two or three layers, double bag in plastic and freeze.

However, if you are planning a life size mount of your trophy, whitetail, moose, bear, etc., either trust your guide to do the skinning or visit your taxidermist prior to the hunt for a more detailed skinning lesson.

Now that you have properly taken care of your trophy in the field, get it to your taxidermist as soon as practical, because time is now your worst enemy. I have received deer heads that have been in the freezer for a couple of years and they are still in good shape. I have received others that were in the freezer for four months and they were so freezer burned that the hide was no longer usable. Again, it depends on how well they were wrapped, and the particular freezer.

Also, if you deliver it to your taxidermist as soon as practical, your wife is not as likely to take an aggressive attitude toward you for leaving it in the freezer so long; and it will be easier to ease that new gun into the line-up if the wife is not ticked-off.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 59

We’ve Got Them Right Here in

Goldthwaite!

We Are Growing!

Now Over 100 New & Pre-Owned Vehicles We’ve Added Service Technicians & Expanded Our Services too!

Hours of Operation

Sales

Sunday Closed Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-6:00 PM Sat 7:30 AM-5:00 PM

Service

Sunday Closed Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-6:00 PM Sat 7:30 AM-12:00 PM

Parts

Sunday Closed Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-6:00 PM Sat 7:30 AM-12:00 PM

1260 Hwy. 84 W. • GOLDTHWAITE

325-648-2274 1-800-741-2866 Buick • Chevrolet

www.LHCHEVY.com

Page 60 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Extend Your Hunting Season into the Spring

By Steven Bridges If you are like me, you start dove hunting in September, shoot a few arrows at deer in October, bag a deer or two in gun season, and end the year with a few predator hunts after New Year’s. Each Spring, however, I like to extend my hunting season even more with a Spring turkey hunt.

My turkey hunting is not “shoot that bird under the feeder” hunting. This is “get out there and sound like a turkey” hunting.

I don’t know if I thought it was going to be easy or not. What it ended up being was turkey hunting.

On one memorable Mills County turkey hunt, I got up way before dawn and set up where I had seen turkeys in the past (not rocket science). I then proceeded to do a decent impression of a turkey with my box call.

I gave a few yelps. A hen yelped back at me from down near the creek in front of me. I gave a few more yelps, and a Tom gobbled. It made my hair stand on end!

I have shot my share of deer in and around Mills County since I was around 10 years old. I haven’t had buck fever since junior high. That is until I heard that bird gobble. I could barely hold my box call.

This exchange went on for about thirty minutes, which gave me time to settle down. The turkeys didn’t seem to be coming my way, but they were “talking back” to me. It is difficult to tell distance in the still of the morning. Plus, I was wishing them closer with each of my calls.

I finally called that big old Tom right up to me. Actually, I called up the fifteen hens in his harem. He simply followed the ladies. One second they were on the other side of the brush. The next second, they were all in front of me. It wasn’t exactly like they magically appeared, but it was misty and quiet and well... magical.

All the hens filtered by me through the tall, green grass. The Tom stayed in back and strutted around. He finally strutted a little too close. I took the Tom at about 40 yards with my 10 gauge (and 2 oz. of #4 shot).

We have been blessed with a few good “turkey” years in a row here in Central Texas. Extend your hunting season with a Spring Turkey hunt next year. Like me, turkey hunting might just give you the buck fever you have been missing.

Steven Bridges with his Mills County gobbler.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 61

Relax and Go Fishing in Mills County

By Steven Bridges you have someone there to back up your fish stories.

Over the summer, I have acted as fishing guide for However, many cameras offer timer-rigged photo kids, friends and family wanting to wet a line. The presoptions to help capture the moment while you are sures of being the guide for the family can make the by yourself. If you are fishing alone, make sure you experience a little like a soap opera. Following these know the workings of your camera and the timer simple tips can help make your fishing and guiding function and consider bringing a tripod to hold the trips a little easier, more productive and more memocamera.

When using a camera, especially a digital model, rable. it is important that everyone knows how the device Taking Kids and Newbies Fishing works. The best idea is to snap a few photos before Introducing children and fishing newbies on their fishing, or use it on smaller fish that you plan to keep. first fishing trip can be a rewarding experience. To ensure a positive experience, here are a few simple tips to This way the person using the camera becomes fakeep in mind: miliar with it and can react quickly once a big fish Have fun. Seeing a child, relative or friend new has been landed. to fishing enjoy reeling in their first fish is rewarding.

The person taking the picture should make cerDon’t forget to take photos. (More about photos later) tain that the sun is shining on the front of the sub Target areas with a high likelihood of ject, as photos where the sun is behind the subject result in pictures where the fish is dark and hidden success. Most fishing newbies are satisfied catching lots of smaller fish such as bluegills rather than catchin shadow. The photographer should take at least ing fewer, bigger fish such as bass and catfish. Catchone picture (more if time allows) and the fish should ing multiple fish on the first few outings will peak their be returned to the water. interest and make them look forward to the next trip.

Try taking the photo with the flash on even in Pick a place that is easy to get to, combright sunlight. The flash will light up under the bill fortable, and safe. Don’t forget to bring snacks, of a cap and take care of any harsh shadows. sunscreen, insect repellent and first aid basics. This will Having a pleasant scene in the background is make your trip comfortable for everyone. nice, but not as important as a clean release. If there Provide simple tackle in working order. are some trees or vegetation that compliments the picture, the photographer should take a second or Nothing can be more discouraging to a child than two to line up a shot and direct the angler where to complicated equipment or equipment that doesn’t stand. work. Consider giving the child their own fishing outfit.

While holding the fish, an angler should keep the This gesture is practical because short rods are easier fish away from his body. This makes the fish look for kids to handle. Better yet, let the child pick out their The author with a nice Mills County bass made much largoutfit from a variety of kids tackle at the store. bigger in relation to the angler. er by holding the fish out for the camera.

Above all else, have patience. You will be I’m a smiler. Half of the time I’m laughing, shoutunsnagging lines, baiting hooks, and landing fish for ing and carrying on after landing a big fish, so them. On your fishing trips with youngsters, they will get dirty, fall down or even there’s usually an ear-to-ear grin for my pictures this time of year. Some people get a little wet. don’t smile even when holding the biggest fish of their lives; I call them “serious” RELAX. Don’t start fishing for yourself until everyone else is up and fishing. In outdoorsmen. If you have the time, take two pictures - one smiling and one serifact, I don’t expect to fish at all if I am taking kids fishing. For new adults, I leave my ous. See which one looks better. rod in the truck until the angler catches a fish or two. Then, I leave them to learn Once the photo session is complete, the fish should be gently returned to the a little fishing on their own. But, I never go too far. They usually have lots of ques- water. Don’t toss or heave the fish back. While releasing the fish, inspect it closely tions. for injury, be certain it can swim under its own power and be make sure it has a FIGHTING BOREDOM. When the kids get bored and want to throw rocks, chase good chance of survival. butterflies or simply goof off, let them. There are few things worse than being Don’t just take photos of the fish you catch. Take photos of the act of fishing, the forced to fish. fight while the fish is on the line and more. You might be surprised at the photos By taking time to introduce children and newbies to fishing, you may end up that turn out. You might just get lucky and land a keeper photo! with a fishing buddy for life.

By following these tips, you’ll make a lifetime of quality photo memories and Fishing Photo Tips it is quite possible that you or another angler will have the same chance to stand It is best to fish with another person at all times, not only for safety, but also so smiling with that same fish on your next fishing trip.

Page 62 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Great FREE

BBQ BEans Proudly Serving

dine in or to go

Texas Beef

Pictured above are David West and Blain Parrish of Team BP Express with their Mills County General Store Predator Hunt winning take. The team won first place with one coyote, six gray fox and one raccoon all called up during a freak winter storm in Mills County last January.

LIVE OAK Realty & Auction

325-648-7200

Hwy 183 • Across From Goldthwaite city Park Open Wednesday - Saturday 11-9 & Sunday 11-3

e r m d i y x a S T h op e h T

Fur Bearing Animals Only

Selling Ranches in Central & West Texas Hwy 183 North - Goldthwaite, Texas

Glen Love, Jr. - Broker: 325-938-6750 Chase Love - 325-451-0029

www.LiveOakRLT.com

Since 1969

Check Quality, Prices, Turn Around Time, THEN DECIDE!

Mickey Donahoo • 333 CR 411 • Goldthwaite, Tx

325-938-5207

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 63

Dove Hunting is Flying Toward Us

By Judy Bishop Jurek It’s getting close. The symptoms are starting to appear. My eyes scan highline wires and tree lines for flyways as I drive.

I note harvested crop fields, grassy pastures, sunflower plots. In a drought (like the last few years) I locate the best water holes. In wet weather I look for solid access roads to and from fields of action.

The index finger on my right hand has begun to itch ever so slightly, especially at the sight of a dozen or so plump doves winging across the sky. I scan sporting goods ads for good buys on shotgun shells, clay pigeons and the latest in hunting apparel and accessories. “Just looking,” I tell myself as I balance my checkbook to see if there’s any extra to be spent on hunting necessities.

Dove season is approaching and I’m an avid (if not rabid) dove hunter coming down with the fever. After months of anticipation, the first hunting since the last spring turkey season is about to kick off. (Varmint and feral hog hunting don’t count since there’s no season on them.)

I can hardly wait. Being a female dove hunter allows me to show more excitement than my male counterparts. I wring my hands, whirl around with a mock shotgun, and jump up and down giggling. All this and more before opening day!

If a hint of a cool front arrives before the season opener, it only adds to the expectancy. A few rounds of skeet shooting helps get that swing of arm, shoulder, hand, finger and eye coordination all working at once. Bird dogs and hunters alike need to get out and get moving to erase the brain cobwebs and the couch potato syndrome that set in the last few months. Extra pounds equate to less energy!

A pre-season outing is also a chance to acclimate both two and four-legged hunters as dove hunting in September Texas can be deliriously hot and humid.

More than a few hunters and canines have suffered the ill effects of too much heat, too little water. Tailgate parties may be part of the overall hunting scene but alcohol intake should be limited until all

the hunting is over, a safety factor in more ways than one.

Dove hunting is one of the best coed sports, equally popular with males and females alike as well as families. It requires little physical strength besides toting shotgun, ammo and perhaps a chair

it on us gals!

And I don’t know many men who wouldn’t get a chuckle out of seeing a woman jump up and shuck her jeans fearing a spider is crawling inside her thigh!

Or worse, due to fire ants in her pants!

No matter where you hunt always keep

to a select location. Besides handling your shotgun, retrieving downed birds is the most strenuous exertion if not lucky enough to have a canine doing it for you.

The really unique thing about dove hunting is the camaraderie. It’s a great sport for females because we can talk, shoot, move around, talk, shoot, drink (don’t forget the ice water in September!), talk, shoot, quit for awhile, talk, shoot and talk some more. You men hunters have to have someone in your group to complain about the heat, the mosquitoes, the heavy dew, high tailwind behind the doves, or whatever! Might as well blame

a keen eye out for snakes. I’ve witnessed males scream louder and longer than a gal when encountering a ground crawler.

Dove hunting doesn’t involve much specialized gear other than ear plugs, safety glasses and insect repellant. Snake boots make some hunters feel safer. Camouflage clothing with a cap or hat definitely has benefits over white or bright colored shirts (and my red hair!). Don’t forget plenty of water for both man and beast!

Many sports are enjoyed everywhere but dove hunting is different (and better) in the Lone Star State. Texas being Texas

sometimes the weather is great or downright lousy, maybe in the same day! The action can be fast and furious or slower than a turtle traveling nowhere. A hunter may be hotter than a firecracker, reaching their limit before others warm up or, if an off day, unable to hit the Astrodome ten yards away!

Dove hunting camaraderie is something special. It’s pleasurable to hunt with friends but day hunting strangers can quickly become friends. Shouting, “Incoming birds!” or “Great shot, Sister,” or “Jerry, how’d you miss that one?” makes for fun and laughter. It’s often remarkable how doves can dodge lead slung from a gauntlet of shotgunners.

Safety is of utmost importance. Whether hunting a water hole, lined up along a brush or tree line, or surrounding a grain field, be aware of fellow hunters. It doesn’t hurt to get gently rained on with lead from a distant shot but if it stings you’re hunting too close! Shooting glasses were designed for more than just looks!

Although not a written law, it’s highly advisable each hunter keeps their doves separate from others before and after cleaning. It’s fun to pile birds for photos and easier to fill a single baggie with cleaned doves but then how do you prove you aren’t over your limit? Adding your name, date and number of birds - no more than a daily limit - on the baggie or container before putting it in the cooler may save time and explanations later.

So put on a camouflage shirt, grab your shotgun, shells, chair and ice water, gather up friends and go dove hunting.

If little or no action, it’s easy to stash the shotguns and break out a tailgate party.

And don’t forget the Dove Mojo… did I say how well they work decoying doves into a watering hole or a tree line? Of course it helps to have doves in the area and can add to the flavor and camaraderie if someone shoots the decoy… but that’s another story!

Have fun, be safe, enjoy the outdoors and all the memories a Texas style dove hunting adventure brings to you! Good luck, too!

Page 64 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

Mills County Medical Clinic Operated by Coryell Memorial Healthcare System Affiliated with Scott & White Healthcare

325-648-2263 ▪ 1510 HANNAH VALLEY RD. ▪ GOLDTHWAITE, TX

Community built and supported with small-town hospitality!

Call today to make an appointment.

l

Good Luck

Hunters!

Mills County Home Health 1510 Hannah Valley Rd. • Goldthwaite • (325) 648-3077

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 65

www.dukesammo.com WINDOW DECAL 25” WIDE X 15” TALL

Print - Maps

http://www.bing.com/maps/print.aspx?mkt=en-us&z=17&s=r&...

Maps 403 S Live Oak St, San Saba, TX 76877 My Notes

Duke’s Ammo

Handguns Rifles Shotguns Ammo Optics Knives & More

403 Live Oak San Saba, Tx 76877 Mon - Wed: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Thur: 10:30 am - 6:00 pm Fri: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sat: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm

Hunting • Tactical • Target

Page 66 - 2013 Mills County Hunting Guide

AMMO FEEDERS COOLERS CORN

HBC Founded in 1881

Higginbotham Brothers Higginbotham-Bartlett Big Tin Barn Sam R. Hill

Presorted std.

Us Postage

PaId

79604 PermIt No. 10

Higginbotham-Bartlett 201 W. Broadway Van Horn, TX 79855 Higginbotham-Bartlett 300 E. Douglas Fort Davis, Texas 79734

! s r e t r a u q d a e H g n i t n Your Hu

Welcome Hunters!

Highway 16 N. - Goldthwaite, Tx - 325-648-2477 OPEN: Mon.-Fri. 7:00-5:30 & Sat. 8:00-4:00

On the Cover

Dr. Tom Cody Graves walks up on a nice ten point Mills County buck he shot last season on the XTC Ranch in northeast Mills County near the community of Caradan.

According to Graves, he rounded a corner of thick brush and spotted this buck running behind some does about a 125 yards away in a field. Fearing the buck my slip away, Graves shouldered his semi-automatic .243 rifle and chanced a running shot at the buck. He needn’t have worried about a follow-up shot, because the buck took a permanent nose dive into the grass.

The XTC Ranch is a low fence ranch and is part the Texas Managed Land Deer Permit System. The quality of deer taken on the ranch has steadily increased every year since entering the program. For more information on the MLDP system, visit Texas Parks & Wildlife on the internet.

2013 Mills County Hunting Guide - Page 67

#1 Polaris Dealer in All of Texas Right Here in Mills County!

New & Welcome

Pre-Owned

hunters!

Store Hours Mon.-Fri. 8-6 Saturday 8-5

OUTDOOR SUPERSTORE 2114 US Hwy 84 (325)648-3341 • (866)522-8793

Goldthwaite, Tx

www.hautogroup.com

Everyone Who Enters

the

Gets a FREE Cap or Cooler

big

A $20 Value

e

th

binge o

$1,000 Value

Grand Prize

.45 Colt Henry Big Boy Rifle Custom Carhartt Jackets for Division Winners of Youth, Archery & Rifle One Lucky hunter will win a

Wildlife

Camera

one

4 Mills County 201

Whitetail Hunt January 11, 2014

Net Proceeds to Benefit the 2014 Mills County Wounded Warrior Deer Hunt

BIG Buck

contest

(to be drawn from ALL Entries)

15 Counties

Hunters MUST PRE-REGISTER Prior to Harvest.

All Entries posted on Facebook • See Store for Details

Downtown Goldthwaite • Open Mon. - Sat. 7-6, Sun. 12-4 • 325-648-2515