2015 Hunting Guide

Hunting Guide 2015

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2 Hunting Guide 2015

Messenger-Inquirer Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Area Hunting DAVIESS COUNTY Academy Sports & Outdoors 3051 Highland Pointe Drive Owensboro, Ky 42303 (281) 638-4617 Bass-N-More 1308 Triplett Street Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 684-5999 Frank Miller-Son Sprt Goods 537 Crabtree Ave Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 683-3479 Gordon’s True Value 6180 Kentucky 54 Philpot, KY 42366 (270) 729-4261

Fishing License Agents

and

KMart #3230 2760 Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 684-0685

Sportsman Headquarters 1915 West 7th St. Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 683-4023

E.J.’s Pawn Shop 150 Main Street Hawesville, KY 42348 (270) 927-8335

City of Livermore 105 W 3rd Street Livermore, KY 42352 (270) 278-2113

KMart #7430 2815 W Parrish Ave Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 926-6371

Wal-Mart #0701 5031 S Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 685-2060

Hancock County Clerk 225 Main Cross St Hawesville, KY 42348 (270) 927-6117

Horns Hooks & Feathers 240 Hwy 81 North Calhoun, KY 42327 (270) 273-5937

Owensboro Rural King Supply 601 Commerce Drive Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 683-3488

Wal-Mart #3363 3151 Leitchfield Road Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 683-5553

Nash’s Archery & Outdoor Gear 1270 Pell Street Lewisport, KY 42351 (270) 295-6532

McLean County Clerk 210 E Main - Courthouse Calhoun, KY 42327 (270) 273-3082

Whittaker’s Guns 6976 West Louisville Lane Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 229-0431

Powers Express 515 Main St. Hawesville, KY 42348 (270) 927-8311

Smith Super Saver 305 Beech Grove Street Calhoun, KY 42327 (270) 273-3573

HANCOCK COUNTY

MCLEAN COUNTY

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Quality Quick #14 3414 New Hartford Road Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 686-7445 Second Amendment Firearms, LLC 235 East 20th St., Suite A Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-4525

Aces Guns 1265 State Rt 271N Hawesville, KY 42348 (270) 927-6078

BG’s Food Mart 105 Hwy 56 N Calhoun, KY 42327 (270) 273-5900

Country Bait Shop 887 Noffsinger Lane Bremen, KY 42325 (270) 525-6443

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Tuesday, August 25, 2015 Messenger-Inquirer

Area Hunting Dailys #3053 443 Hopkinsville Street Greenville, KY 42345 (270) 338-6241 Dailys #3060 324 N 2nd Street Central City, KY 42330 (270) 754-5354

Wal-Mart #0294 US 62 West Central City, KY 42330 (270) 754-1533 Wayne’s Place & Coop’s Diner 11061 US Hwy 431 S

Max’s Convenience Shop #147 3454 US Hwy 4315 Beechmont, KY 42323 (270) 476-3995

Dunmor, KY 42339

Muhlenberg County Rural King Supply 145 Copper Creek Drive Powderley, KY 42367 (270) 338-3555

1000 St. Rt. Hwy 54W

Shivashankar, Inc. 1550 St Rt 601 N Greenville, KY 42345 (270) 641-0446

(270) 657-2636

OHIO COUNTY AARYA, Inc. Fordsville, KY 42343 (270) 276-5014 Backwoods Bait Shack 2569 Hwy 85 West Centertown, KY 42328 (270) 232-5059

and

Hunting Guide 2015

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Fishing License Agents

Charlies Family Market 101 N Main Street Hartford, KY 42347 (270) 298-4588 Cromwell Mkt 6035 Hwy 231 Cromwell, KY 42333 (270) 298-7401 Dundee General Store 11632 State Route 69 North Dundee, KY 42338 (270) 276-9400

Horse Branch General Store 12621 US Hwy 62,P.O. Bx 515, Horse Branch, KY 42349 (270) 274-4768

Wal-Mart #0333 1701 North Main Beaver Dam, KY 42320 (270) 274-9608

Jumpin Jacks Food Mart 100 Hwy 54 Fordsville, KY 42343 (270) 276-3104 Mitchell’s Grocery 11707 US 231 Utica, KY 42376 (270) 275-4933

Fastway #8 711 Main St. Centertown, KY 42328 (270) 232-4330

Ohio County Clerk 301 S Main Street, Ste 201 Hartford, KY 42347 (270) 298-4422

Fred’s Minit Mart #71 1989 US Hwy 231 South Beaver Dam, KY 42320 (270) 274-5059

Ohio County Clerk Branch 301 S. Main Street, Ste 201 Hartford, KY 42347 (270) 276-3904

“The Tri-State Land Specialist since 1945�

Raceway Market 12 Allen Road McHenry, KY 42354 (270) 274-5564

WK Truck & Auto 1958 Hwy 231 Beaver Dam, KY 42320 (270) 274-7991 Young Hardware & Furniture Company, Inc. 212 North Main Beaver Dam, KY 42320 (270) 274-3212

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4 Hunting Guide 2015

Messenger-Inquirer Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Teal-only season gives waterfowlers additional opportunity

By Lee McClellan

Associate Editor, Kentucky Afield Magazine Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

K

entucky water fowl hunters now have additional days in September to pursue teal in an experimental season that began in 2014.

The teal-only season runs from Sept. 24 through Sept. 27, 2015. A combined wood duck and teal season opens Sept. 19 and closes Sept. 23. Beginning with the upcoming season, the opening day for the wood duck and teal season moved from Wednesday to Saturday.

“This gives hunters two weekends to pursue wood ducks and teal,” said John Brunjes, migrator y bird coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Hunters may har vest up to six teal a day during the teal-only season.

Also new for the 2015 season, all migrator y bird hunters including dove hunters and waterfowlers, must complete the Har vest Information Program (HIP) sur vey before they are legal migrator y bird hunters. Call 1-800-8581549 or visit the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife webpage at fw.ky.gov and click on the “My Profile” tab on the upper left portion of the page. Then, click on the “HIP Migrator y Bird Sur vey” tab to start the process. It takes less than 5 minutes.

Blue-winged teal are the second most abundant duck species in Nor th America behind mallard ducks. They are approximately one-third of the size of a mallard. Hunters will likely encounter blue-winged teal in Kentucky, but they may also see green-winged teal. Cinnamon teal are native to the western United States and rare in Kentucky. The largest concentrations of bluewinged teal migrate through the western part of the state. “Blue-winged teal prefer large shallow open waters and marshes, making them fairly accessible to Kentucky hunters,” Brunjes said. “Blue-wings are generally not as skittish as other duck species and don’t require much in the way of special equipment.”

Brunjes said a few decoys, waders and a little camouflage clothing will suffice for teal hunting. “Hunters can take advantage of natural cover around the water’s edge,” he said. “Hunters don’t need a blind if they stay low.”

Those without private land to hunt can find good teal hunting on the sloughs and lakes of Sloughs Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Henderson and Union counties as well as on Ballard and Boatwright WMAs in Ballard County. The many ponds and lakes of Peabody WMA in Hopkins, Muhlenberg and Ohio counties also offer productive teal hunting.

“These wildlife management areas can of fer some pretty exceptional teal hunting when birds are moving 724 Time Dr. • Owensboro, KY through,” Brunjes said.

Larger waters also of fer good opportunities, such as the many shallow flats of Kentucky Lake and Lake www.joneswoolfolkins.com Barkley. “Some central Kentucky reser voirs also attract teal,” Brunjes said. “When the birds are migrating,

Blue-winged teal

good concentrations have been seen on Green River, Cedar Creek Lake and Taylorsville Lake.”

Teal fly fast and close to the water; a test of any wing shooter’s skills.

Their small size and erratic flying make them challenging to hit.

Br unjes reminds hunters these additional hunting days are just for teal. “Make sure of your target before you shoot,” he said. Nor thern shovelers look similar to blue-winged teal, but have a much larger body and bill.

A valid Kentucky hunting license, a Kentucky migrator y game bird – water fowl permit along with a federal migrator y bird hunting permit are required to hunt teal. Hunters may only use non-toxic shot while hunting any waterfowl species.

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Tuesday, August 25, 2015 Messenger-Inquirer

Hunting Guide 2015

2015-16 Kentucky Hunting Seasons Zone 3:

All Zones

Includes Daviess, Hancock and Ohio Fall Turkey counties Shotgun: Oct. 24-30

Deer Season

Modern Gun: Nov. 14-23, either sex Archery: Sept. 5-Jan. 18, either sex Crossbow: Oct.1-18 and Nov. 14 -Dec. 31, either sex Muzzleloader: Oct. 17-18 and Dec. 12-20, either sex Youth-only firearms: Oct. 10-11, either sex Free Youth Weekend: Dec. 26-27, either sex

Zone 4: includes McLean and Muhlenburg counties

Deer Season

Modern Gun: Nov. 14-23, antlered only Archery: Sept. 5-Jan. 18, either sex, except antlered only Oct. 17-18, Nov. 14-23 and Dec. 12-17 Crossbow: Oct.1-18 and Nov. 14 -Dec. 31, either sex, except antlered only Oct. 17-18, Nov. 14-23 and Dec. 12-17 Muzzleloader: Oct. 17-18 and Dec. 12-17, antlered only, Dec. 18-20, either sex Youth-only firearms: Oct. 10-11, either sex Free Youth Weekend: Dec. 26-27, either sex

and Dec. 5-11 Archery: Sept. 5-Jan. 18, 2016 Crossbow: Oct. 1-18 and Nov. 14-Dec. 31

Squirrel Hunting: Aug. 15-Nov. 13 and Nov. 16-Feb. 29, 2016 Trapping: One half-hour before sunrise, Nov. 16-Feb. 29, 2016

Rabbit Hunting: Nov. 16-Feb. 10, 2016 Trapping: One half-hour before sunrise, Nov. 16-Feb. 10, 2016

Bobcat

Hunting: One half-hour before sunrise Nov. 28-Feb. 29, 2016, daylight hours only Trapping: One half-hour before sunrise Nov. 16-Feb.29, 2016

River Otter, Muskrat, Mink, Beaver, Red Fox, Gray Fox, Weasel and Striped Skunk

Hunting: One half-hour before sunrise Nov. 28-Feb. 29, 2016, daylight hours only Trapping: One half-hour before sunrise Nov. 16-Feb.29, 2016

Crow Hunting: One half-hour before sunrise Sept. 1-Nov.7 and Jan. 4-Feb. 29, 2016, daylight hours only

Bullfrog Noon May 15-Midnight Oct. 31

Information from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife

Quail Hunting: Nov. 16-Feb. 10, 2016 No trapping

Raccoon & Opossum Hunting: Oct. 1-Feb. 29, 2016 Trapping: One half-hour before sunrise Nov. 16-Feb.29, 2016

Coyotes, Groundhog & Turtles Hunting: Year-round Trapping: One half-hour before sunrise Nov. 16-Feb.29, 2016

Please Visit Our New Full Service Archery Department!!

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6 Hunting Guide 2015

Messenger-Inquirer Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Scouting for a successful deer hunt

“If you’re not hunting big, timbered areas, you’r e looking for bottleneck areas where you’ve got thickets near fence lines that connect forage areas,” Miles said. “Big deer are going to do their absolute best to

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ork, family and school commitments can leave little free time in a day, but hunters can help themselves by carving out some time to scout an area.

“I think it increases your odds of success and your chances for a big deer,” said Chad Miles, an avid deer hunter and executive director of the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Studying topographical maps and satellite imager y is a good first step to learning the lay of the land and scouting more efficiently. But there’s no substitute for personal experience; walking the terrain; seeing where the deer bed, what’s available for them to eat and what routes they travel.

“If you can spend enough time at the proper ty, know how deer move through it,” said David Yancy, deer biologist with Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. “Where are the chokepoints?

Know the creek drainage pattern. The low spot on the ridgeline? That’s where they’re going to cross because it’s less effort. Those kinds of things are important during gun season.”

Miles prefers scouting around midday and no closer than two weeks before he plans to hunt. Any later risks spooking the deer.

To limit human scent left behind, wear rubber boots and be mindful about touching or handling tree branches and leaves. Some may prefer to wear scent control clothing or spray.

Tracks, droppings and hair caught on fencing are tell-tale signs deer are in the area. Rub lines and scrapes are additional clues that show up as deer transition from their summer pattern. Deer become less visible in open spaces in the fall as acorns begin to hit the ground and the rut approaches. After the rut, available food sources and cover become all-important.

READ sse E

By Kevin Kelly

Kentucky Afield Outdoors

2015 PLATINUM WINNER

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2418 FREDERICA ST., OWENSBORO, KY • 683-5645

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6180 KY 54, PHILPOT, KY • 729-4261

Tuesday, August 25, 2015 Messenger-Inquirer

remain out of sight as much as they can until the r ut makes them crazy.

They’re going to slip through those little areas where they’re going to be visible the least amount of time. I’m looking for those types of areas if I’m scouting for gun season.�

A handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) is a handy tool that can help a hunter keep track of these key spots and potential tree stand locations.

When considering a stand location, note the wind direction. This is easily accomplished with wind direction powder or by simply crumbling a dried leaf and tossing it into the air. Checking the weather online the day of a hunt can help determine where to set up. “The quicker you can get to that stand and get your scent of f the ground and create as little disturbance as possible, the best chance you’re going to be successful going after that

Hunting Guide 2015

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big deer,� Miles said.

On wildlife management areas and Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area, hunters may use a por table stand or climbing device as long as it does not injure a tree. Nails, spikes, screw-in devices, wire or tree climbers cannot be used to attach a tree stand or climb a tree. Por table stands may not be placed in a tree more than two weeks before opening day and must be removed within a week after the last day of each hunting period. The hunter’s name and address should be clearly marked on the portable stand.

Scouting after the season can help a hunter get a leg up on the following year, but it’s important to be mindful of season dates. If scouting during the modern gun, muzzleloader and youth firearm deer seasons, or a firearm elk or firearm bear season, wearing hunter orange is highly recommended.

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Fax: 270-684-0289

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3329 Wathens Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301 ••• 270-683-1715 ext. 214 david.boswell@kyfb.com

270-729-4261

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8 Hunting Guide 2015

Messenger-Inquirer Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Prep pointers for the upcoming hunting season

By Metro Creative Connection

H

unting is a popular hobby and spor t enjoyed by millions of people across Nor th America.

Over the last 10 years, data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser vice indicates that more and more females are taking up hunting.

Hunting seasons vary depending on where you live. Regulations designed by local conservation, game, fish, and wildlife departments often dictate the start and end of hunting season. Although the licensing, seasons, limits, and fees for hunting may differ geographically, the preparation that goes into getting ready for hunting season is similar regardless of geography.

Many seasoned hunters realize hunting season does not begin on “opening day.” Rather, it can take weeks or months to get ready for a successful season. Considering hunting seasons can be brief, preparation helps hunters make the most of their time spent in the field.

• Purchase your license, tag or stamp.

Many wildlife departments require hunt-

ers register in advance of the season, and this registration includes securing a hunting license. Because there is a limit to how many animals each hunter can hunt, tags for the animals they’re hunting also will be issued. Hunters planning on going out for the season should stay apprised of when licensing and registration begins and ends so they can hunt legally.

• Scout areas. The landscape can

change from year to year depending on a host of factors, including construction, commercialization and weather. Areas once open to hunting may now be restricted lands. Map out your potential hunting location and be aware of any new landmarks or changes.

• Check and replenish gear. Inspect weaponry, field-dressing supplies, clothing, and other supplies for wear and tear.

Address any issues that need to be fixed, or replace items as necessary. If a rifle, bow or shotgun hasn’t been fired in a while, take it to a range to verify accuracy and sighting. If you hunt out of a tree stand or blind, make sure it is sturdy and in good condition prior to use.

• Get in shape. Hunting often requires hiking in and out of the great outdoors in various terrain. It’s helpful to increase physical activity leading up to the hunt to prepare your body for the physical demands of hunting.

• Organize and pack gear. Ensure your equipment is clean, in working order and packed away in your travel bags.

Establish a system of organization and a checklist so you’re certain you will have what you need. Don’t forget to bring along your hunting license and animal tags; otherwise, you may be levied with costly fines.

• Always hunt safely. It is quite easy to get swept up in the moment when tracking game. Don’t let overzealousness cloud rational judgement and safety precautions.

Otherwise an injury or even death can occur.