Complimentary Copy
April/May 2012
McKenzie, Tennessee The Best Steaks, Chicken, Seafood, Pasta & Buffet In Carroll County!
Huge & Delicious Lunch & Dinner Buffet!
Outdoor-Theme Banquet Room!
OLE WEST STEAK HOUSE 15895 HIGHLAND - McKENZIE, TENNESSEE
SUN. - THUR. - 11AM TO 8PM 2
FRI. & SAT. - 11AM TO 9PM.
731-352-3330
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
www.outerlimitpowersports.com 2012 POLARIS RZR XP 900 LIQUID SILVER LE
2012 POLARIS RANGER 800 CREW EPS PEARL WHITE LE
2012 POLARIS EV CAMO
2012 POLARIS SPORTSMAN 850 XP H.O. EPS BLUE FIRE LE
HUNT SILENT WITH ELECTRIC! Warning: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Avoid operating Polaris ATVs or RANGERs on paved surfaces or public roads. Riders and passengers should always wear a helmet, eye protection, protective clothing, and a seat belt and always use cab nets (on RANGER vehicles). Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Polaris adult ATV models are for riders age 16 and older. Drivers of RANGER vehicles must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. All ATV riders should take a safety training course. For ATV safety and training information call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887, see your dealer, or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. ©2011 Polaris Industries Inc
470 US Highway 51 Bypass North • Dyersburg, TN 38024 - (731) 285-2060 Open Tuesday-Friday: 9am - 5pm and Saturday: 9am - 3pm
OuterLimit hopes to see you at Bikini Bottoms Off Road Park and the 2012 Dyer County Fair/OuterLimit ATV & SxS sled pull!
Protect your investment and warranty by trusting only Polaris certified technicians! Visit OuterLimit’s multi-award winning service department with diagnostic monitoring and direct connection to Polaris. CLIP THIS COUPON AND BRING IT IN FOR 10% OFF ANY SERVICE WORK!
CLIP THIS COUPON AND BRING IT IN FOR 10% OFF ANY ACCESSORIES!
CLIP THIS COUPON AND BRING IT IN FOR 10% OFF ANY POLARIS EXTENDED WARRANTY PURCHASE!
From the Editor’s Desk
G ARTICLE P AUTHOR 5 The Good Old Days Gary Mason 8 Bethel Boys Become Bassmasters Ryan Watkins 12 Handi-capable Rob Somerville 16 To Lift of Not to Lift Shane King 22 Turkey- The Terrain Game Rob Somerville 26 Women in the Outdoors Terry Wilkerson 32 Modern Day Mountain Man Rob Somerville 36 Teacher - Humor Gil Lackey 42 “Daddy Pat” - A Tribute John Roberts 38 Trophy Room - Reader Submitted Photos 41 Kid’s Korner 44 Hot Products for the Outdoors 46 Cooking on the Wildside
On the Cover
Outdoor legend, Alex Rutledge, is pictured here with a string of slab crappie and a trophy gobbler, all of which he enjoyed on the same day while being guided by Garry Mason. Photo courtesy of Garry Mason
Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine, LLC Owners - Eddie Anderson Rob Somerville Kevin Griffith Publisher - Eddie Anderson Editor - Rob Somerville Garry Mason Walter Wilkerson Terry Wilkerson Jeff Agee Paul Moore
Magazine Design - Kalli Lipke Advertising Sales Rob Somerville - Managing Partner Distribution Johnathan Anderson
Field Staff Editors
Steve McCadams Kelley Powers Eddie Brunswick Tim Agee Larry Self
John Sloan Richard Simms John Meacham Joe Hall Buck Gardner
Scott Marcin Ed Lankford Drew Brooks John Latham John Roberts
Advertising Information:
Southern Traditions Outdoors | Rob Somerville (731) 446-8052 stomag1@gmail.com DISCLAIMER - Neither the authors nor Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine LLC assume any responsibility or liability for any actions by readers who utilize any information contained within. Readers are advised that the use of any and all information contained within Southern Traditions Outdoors is at their own risk.
Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine Mission Statement: Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine vows to put forth a publication to promote the outdoors lifestyle in a positive manner. We will strive to encourage veteran and novice outdoorsmen, women, kids, and the physically challenged to participate in the outdoors in a safe and ethical manner. Our publication will bring positive attention to the wondrous beauty of the world of Nature in the mid-south.
4
ecently all of us who participate in and R
appreciate the outdoor lifestyle lost a true champion. His name was James Patrick {Pat} Roberts, but everyone in West Tennessee knew him as “Daddy Pat.” He passed away peacefully in his sleep, shortly after taking inventory of and preparing his turkey hunting gear for an upcoming gobbler hunt. The date was March 6th, 2012. Daddy Pat was a very spry, eighty seven years-young. I first met him about ten years ago at a restaurant in Dyersburg, TN. His grandson, John Roberts, told me that I just had to meet Pat and his wife, who was affectionately called TwoMammy. Although I had an important meeting in an half hour, out of courtesy I walked over to their table and John introduced me as the co-owner and editor of what was then West Tennessee Outdoors Magazine. They politely invited me to join them. Looking at my watch, I decided I had a few minutes to oblige them. Little did I know that I would not only miss my meeting, but that I would spend nearly two hours of fascinating conversation with two people who truly loved and lived for each other and the great outdoor heritage that made this country what it is. Three things became instantly apparent. They were a perfect match. The love they shared was as obvious as the fact that the sun would rise each day. When one spoke, the other would look at their mate with quiet respect and affection. They even finished each other’s sentences, never bragging on themselves, but only on their spouse of 66 years. I quickly surmised that she was a veritable walking cookbook of wildlife recipes and his passion for introducing kids, safely and ethically into the outdoors, was authentic and of legendary status. I not only gained insight to the Roberts during my short meeting with them that night, but as time went on and years passed, literally hundreds of people told me about the respect they had for them. I repeatedly heard grown men tell how Daddy Pat was a true mentor to them, patiently teaching them safety, as well as respect and ethics in relation to hunting and wildlife habitat. They lovingly told me about him providing gear, ammunition and clothes as well as providing the young hunters a quality place to hunt under his watchful eye. In the past few years I have had the privilege of interviewing Daddy Pat on radio and in magazine articles. I am not ashamed to say that I loved that old man. He meant so much to the future outdoorsmen and women by taking the time to always cater to these kids. He was unselfish, giving and patient. He always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, when he and his son in-law - Larry Gibson, hosted dozens of kids, filling their blind during Juvenile Duck Season at Bee Lake. When I introduced him to World Champion Duck Caller – Buck Gardner, Buck shook his hand and told him that it was an honor to meet him, later telling me that, “Mr. Pat is the “real deal.” Eddie Anderson called me the night Daddy Pat passed away. He left me a voicemail that said it all. With a choked up voice and tears in his eyes {I am sure} his shaky voice told me, “Daddy Pat passed away last night, Rob. We have lost us a great one.” We will miss you Daddy Pat. But, I know you are now in Heaven, where the ducks always fly low, the longbeards always gobble and the woods are full of huge bucks. Good-bye my friend!
Rob Somerville STO Editor
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
remember the good old days,” the elderly man said as we sat in the restaurant, drinking coffee. We would catch two hundred or more crappie before lunch and then go bass fishing and catch a sack full of bucketmouths before supper. Quail were everywhere and you could get permission to hunt at just about every farm house that you came to. “Yes, I remember the good old days,” he reminisced, “It sure was good back then.” I have thought several times about what that gentleman had said and he was right in some ways and wrong in others. I believe that we are living in the good old days right now, here in Tennessee. Yes, there were many crappie caught back then, but there were a lot fewer boats and fishing was done from the bank, or by wading for most anglers. If you had anything more than a cane pole you were considered rich or lucky. Minnows, worms, or chicken livers were the bait of choice, depending on what species of fish you were going after. I can still remember the very first whitetail deer that I saw and the first wild turkey that I heard gobble.
The abundance of wildlife is staggering, here in Tennessee, when you think about it. Thanks to positive changes in farming practices, most of the run-off from fields going into our lakes has slowed way down, or stopped all together. Our waters are much clearer and healthier today than at any time in the past fifty years. Sometimes, as many as a thousand boats can be counted in a sincontinued on next page
Pictured above are three generations of Tennessee turkey hunters. They are {left to right} Michael Mason, Garry Mason, David Mitchell and Tyler Mason. The little guy in the center, with his 1st gobbler ever, is Connor Mason. Photo courtesy of Garry Mason.
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
5
-gle day, with anglers fishing on both Kentucky and Reelfoot Lake. Most of them will be after crappie, bream or bass, during the spring, and catfish in the summer months. According to the U. S Fish and Wildlife surveys, we had a stronger migration of waterfowl this past winter than we have seen in four decades. Our deer herd is at an alltime high, with hunters being able to take to the woods with a good chance of coming home with fresh venison for the freezer. Wild turkey populations in the Volunteer State have exploded in most areas, especially in West Tennessee, with record harvest numbers being broken each year. Just this past year, Alex Rutledge, Michael Mason and a friend called in and bagged three long beards before 7:30 AM. I had told them that if they got limited
out on longbeards, I would take them all crappie fishing. Little did I know that they would harvest their birds so fast that morning. By 9:00 AM, we were on Kentucky Lake, catching big slab crappie. That was a good evening to be invited to supper at the Mason household, as we dined on some of Tennessee’s finest fish and game: deep-fried turkey breast and country battered crappie fillets. Some may remember the good old days with passion, but I sincerely believe that those of us that are outdoorsmen are getting to live in the best of times, each and every day here in Tennessee. I would like to give a special thanks to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for all of their hard work in helping to make Tennessee a great place to enjoy the Outdoors.
thunder ridge retrievers
JOE KING OVER 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE BREEDING & TRAINING HUNTING DOGS 1910 RAMBO RD. DYERSBURG, TN. - 38024 731-676-7776 thunderridgeretrievers@yahoo.com
NORTH DELTA SOIL SOLUTIONS INC. Independent Soil Fertility Specialists Services Include: Precision Soil Sampling Services. Variable Rate Soil Fertility & Seed Prescriptions. Yield Mapping & Analytical Services. Brennan Booker Soil Fertility Specialist 731-487-0968 P.O. Box 266 Dyersburg, TN 38025 brenbooker@gmail.com
6
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
CYPRESS CREEK OUTFITTERS 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE REELFOOT & KENTUCKY LAKE AREAS!
FAMILY OWNED BY DWAYNE & CALEB DUNN 10% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT FOR FALL FISHING AND 2011/2012 DUCK SEASON!
THE REPUTABLE AND EXPERIENCED GUIDE SERVICE IN THE REELFOOT LAKE, KENTUCKY LAKE, AND THE SURROUNDING REGION, WITH OVER 30 YEAR’S EXPERIENCE! WE BOOK HUNTING TRIPS FOR TROPHY SPECIES OF: DUCKS - GEESE - TURKEY - DEER FISHING TRIPS ON REELFOOT & KENTUCKY LAKES FOR CRAPPIE, BASS, BLUEGILL, & CATFISH. OUR EXPERIENCED AND COURTEOUS GUIDES, ENSURE QUALITY TRIPS AND ENJOYMENT FOR OUR CUSTOMERS. WE ALSO SPECIALIZE IN COUPLES, YOUTH, AND CHURCH GROUPS! WATERFOWL HUNTS ARE ALL LOCATED ON REELFOOT LAKE IN DELUXE BLINDS. MODERN, AFFORDABLE, AND COMFORTABLE LODGING IS AVAILABLE, WITH LOCATIONS DIRECTLY ON EITHER LAKE! WATERFOWL - $150.00 PER DAY/PER PERSON - WITH A MINIMUM OF FOUR HUNTERS. TROPHY DEER OR TURKEY ALL-DAY HUNT ON PRIVATE LAND - $250.00 PER DAY/PER PERSON FISHING - ALL DAY - AT REELFOOT OR KENTUCKY LAKE - $200.00 PER DAY FOR TWO PEOPLE. HALF OF THE OUTFITTING FEE MUST BE PAID UPON BOOKING TRIP - IN ADVANCE THIS IS A GUARANTEE THAT THE CHOSEN DATES FOR YOU AND YOUR PARTY. NO REFUNDS DUE TO CUSTOMER CANCELLATIONS! BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROVIDED AT NO EXTRA CHARGE!
{731}446-0048 dunndwayne@rocketmail.com CHECK OUT NEWLY DESIGNED AND INTERACTIVE WEBSITE, WITH HUNTING & FISHING REPORTS AND FACEBOOK AND YOU TUBE VIDEOS!
www.reelfootlakeduckhunting.com 7
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
After one day of fishing on Lake Guntersville, the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series weight records were in jeopardy. By the end of the weigh-in Saturday, they were destroyed. First, Evan Smith netted a college record 9-pound Guntersville giant to claim Carhartt Big Bass. Then, Dewey Swims and Cody Ross from Bethel University stole the show and ignited a celebration, when they scored a two-day record of 48 pounds, 11 ounces to win the South Super Regional. “It felt great man,” Ross said, still visibly shook up. “It felt real good, to be honest. I don’t really know how to tell you how it felt. We’re both pretty ecstatic. We really didn’t think it was going to happen, but we put faith in the Lord and He brought it for us.” Falling just 1 pound, 8 ounces short of the leaders was the team of Shane Lehew and Adam Winters from UNC-Charlotte with 47lb – 3oz. Taking third place was Bethels’ Dillon McGee and Tanner Ellis with a total of 46lb. -3oz. Rounding out the top five was Kyle Albers and Brad Kimrey of East Carolina with 46lb – 2oz and Hunter Shults and David Lambert of Tennessee-Knoxville with 45lb – 12oz. After a trying morning and an excess amount of boat pressure in their area, Ross and Swims had to scrap everything and
move on to their backup plan. They relied on a bluff wall from practice for a later bite that led to a tournament-winning bag. “In the pocket that we fished both days, there was only room for about two boats,” Swims said, “Today, at times, there were up to seven boats in there. At noon, we made the decision to leave and go run our secondary pattern, and we caught three keepers, with our fifth
as high pressure and light winds cleared the water in many areas. The amount of boat traffic also had a major effect on the anglers with multiple events taking place on the ever-popular Lake Guntersville. The right decisions at the right time must be made and each fish is critical when attempting to take home a title. That’s exactly what Swims and Ross did to entice their 22lb – 4oz winning weight
Dewey Swims and Cody Ross, from Bethel University, stole the show and ignited a celebration, when they scored a two day record of 48 pounds - 11 ounces to win the South Super Regional. Photo courtesy of BASSMASTERS
one coming at 1:30. It was 22 pounds worth of bass, which was just enough.” Winning at any level is not easily obtained, but this week was a true test for the 116 collegiate teams. Weather alone was a constant factor. Overcast skies and rain on the first day of the tournament muddied the water and then led into polar opposite conditions Saturday,
into the boat on the final day. “We did the same thing we were doing yesterday,” Ross said. “We just pretty much just threw these traps in about 4 to 5 feet of water around stumps. We were fishing around a lot of boats, but we were the only ones catching ‘em. We figured out you had to be burning that trap and rip it, as soon as you got in the grass. I’m
talking about rip it - they’d just kill it.” For the runners-up from UNC-Charlotte, it was yet another tale of heartbreak. Last year, they finished third at the South Super Regional on the Alabama River. They had hoped Guntersville would give them the opportunity to get over the hump. “You always want to get the win if you can,” Winters said, “That’s what we came down here to do, but second’s not bad either.” The duo stuck with their original area and just followed the fish, as they transitioned to a different spot about 200 yards away in Honeycomb Creek. Their consistency gave them a glimmer of hope that they might win, but it was short lived. “I thought we’d be close. I figured anywhere from 47 to 50 pounds would win,” Lehew said. “We needed one more big one in the boat, either yesterday or today. It was a good day though. We culled a lot, probably 10 to 12 keepers, with most being in the 3.5- to 4-pound range.” On day one there were 345 bass weighed-in with 41 limits for a total of 1,208 lbs., 10 oz. Day two dropped to 282 fish in the bags and 32 limits at 1,015 pounds even. The next event in the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series will be the East Super Regional on April 13-14 on Smith Mountain Lake in Franklin County, Va.
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
8
THE HOT SPOT GUIDE SERVICE
OWNER/OPERATOR: MICHAEL PAUGH OVER TWO DECADES EXPERIENCE OVER TWO DECADES, GUIDING OF HUNTING & FISHING THE THE “HOTTEST SPOTS” ON THE “HOTTEST SPOTS” CUMBERLAND RIVER & ON THE CUMBERL AND TENNESSEE KENTUCKY LAKELAKE AREA! RIVERS & KENTUCKY AREA!
FULLY GUIDED TRIPS: CATFISHING! BLUEGILL FISHING! CRAPPIE FISHING! & TROPHY DEER HUNTING ON 600 PRIVATE ACRES IN HENRY COUNTY! We offer Group Rates & Corporate Discounts!
NORTHWEST TENNESSEE
TOURISM
• • • • • • • • •
HUNT l We can fulfil FISH your entire BOAT family’s vacation dreams! GOLF SWIM HIKE CAMP LODGING FINE FOOD
Northwest Tennessee... A Great Place to Be!
Michael Paugh 898 Van Cleave Rd. Martin, TN - 38237 731-332-0634 VISIT ONFacebook FACEBOOK Michael Eugene Paugh Visit US us on at AT Michael Eugene Paugh
NORTHWEST TENNESSEE
TOURISM 731-593-0171 kentuckylaketourism.com reelfootlakeoutdoors.com
Ê10ÊminutesÊNWÊofÊDyersburg,ÊTNÊ
ÊÊPrivateÊaccessÊlakeÊÊÊwww.fyrnelake.comÊÊ
Take a tour in person or on the web!
TakeÊaÊtourÊinÊpersonÊorÊonÊtheÊweb!ÊÊ Enjoy the quiet solitude of this private lake!
FunÊforÊtheÊwholeÊfamily!Ê 9
EnjoyÊtheÊquietÊsolitudeÊofÊthisÊprivateÊlake!Ê 1 mile long · 7.9 miles of shoreline · up to 37’ deep 1ÊmileÊlongÊ7.9ÊmilesÊofÊshorelineÊÊup to 37’deepÊ Pristine lake surrounded by hardwood forest & PristineÊlakeÊsurroundedÊbyÊhardwoodÊforestÊ&Êwildlife.Ê wildlife. Limited number of 2012 memberships LimitedÊnumberÊofÊ2011ÊmembershipsÊavailableÊatÊ$600. available at $600. Email Kevin@FyrneLake.com or call 727-458-8193. Be sure to find us on facebook! EmailÊkevin@fyrnelake.comÊorÊcallÊ727-458-8193Ê Bass,ÊBream,ÊCrappieÊ&ÊCatfish!Ê
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
NEWSLETTER 2012 Schedule is Set!
2012 will be the first year Bass Pro Shops Crappie Masters will affiliate with crappie clubs, so if you have a crappie club that would be interested in our affiliate program for the 2013 season please contact us. Feb. 10th - 11th: Harris Chain of Lake, Tavares, FL. Florida State Championship Mar. 3rd: Columbus Lake Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway, Columbus, MS Mar. 16th - 17th: Alabama River-Jordan Lake, Elmour County, AL. Mar. 30th - 31st: Grenada Lake, Grenada, MS. Apr. 13th - 14th: South Kentucky Lake One Pole, Benton County, TN Apr. 27th - 28th: Dardanell Lake, Russellville, AR. (BOAT DRAWING) May 12th: Lakes Washington-Lee-Paradise-Ferguson, Greenville, MS May 18th - 19th: Kentucky Lake, Paris-Henry County, TN. Tennessee State Championship June 2nd: Lake Rathbun, Centerville, IA June 16th: Lake Fork, Emory, TX June 22nd - 23rd: Truman Lake, The Ultimate Challenge One Pole, Clinton-Warsaw, MO. Oct. 3rd - 6th: National Championship, Columbus, MS. Crappie Masters Club Affiliates: Our club affiliate program is new for 2012 as we attempt to grow the base with relationships with crappie clubs. Total points of the three lakes win the championship. Top 8 teams in total points of the 3 tournaments qualify for the National Championship. Missouri State Championship - Apr. 14th: Lake of the Ozarks, Aug. 11th: Mark Twain, Aug. 25th: Truman Lake Georgia Slabmasters - Jan. 14th: Lake Blackshear, Feb. 4th: Talquin, Apr. 21st: Clarks Hill
For more information, go to www.crappiemasters.net.
The Tournament Choice of the Pros!
COMING SOON TO YOUR AREA!
Go To:
www.crappiemasters.net
FOR THE LATEST TOURNAMENT REPORTS, SCHEDULES, ENTRY FORMS AND RULES, SIGN UP SHEETS, CRAPPIEMASTERS APPAREL AND GEAR, CRAPPIE TIPS AND TACTICS, CRAPPIE FISHING TALK FORUMS, KID’S FISHING RODEOS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE! Paul Alpers - President - P.O. Box 64 - Barnett, MO 65011 - pafishon@aol.com - 573-280-8020
TRADITIONS OUTDOORS 10 Bobby Brown - Vice President - P.O. Box 989APRIL/MAY - Lebanon, MO2012 65536| -SOUTHERN crappiemasters@gmail.com - 417-532-0244 Betty Rutledge - Administration/Secretary - P.O. Box 989 - Lebanon, MO 65536 - crappiemasters.offi ce@gmail.com - 660-723-1552 Publisher - Tim Huffman - thuffman@socket.net
ORIGINATING WEST TENNESSEE’S GRAIN SINCE 2002
DYERSBURG ELEVATOR COMPANY 300 PRESSLER RD. - DYERSBURG, TN. - 38024 731-287-7272 APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
11
By Rob Somerville Many of you have read the Handi-Capable in the Outdoor feature of STO Magazine, but few of you have had the honor of knowing its author. His name is Eddie Brunswick and today I want you to get to know this man, who I consider to be my brother from another mother. Over thirty years ago, Eddie Brunswick was involved
12
in a car accident, which left him paralyzed from the waist down and changed his entire life. Eddie’s passion for the outdoors didn’t get destroyed along with the use of his legs. Instead of hosting his own personal pity party, Eddie eventually became a role model for all physically challenged outdoor oriented men, women, and children. Along with friends and family, he designed and built various devices and aids that now allow him and others in his physical condition to enjoy God’s gracious beauty of the outdoors. Mobile hunting blinds, shooting
braces and boats with wheelchair ramps were built, tested and utilized. Eddie made it his personal mission to contact other physically challenged individuals and encourage them in their pursuit of the outdoor lifestyle. Through his fraternal organizations, Eddie organized hunting and fishing trips for wheelchair bound hunters. Annual dove hunts of eight to ten wheelchairs were led by him and the group of modified vehicles and trailers used to transport the wheelchairs resembled a gypsy caravan as it winded through the fields. The fishing trips for catfish, bass, bluegill and crappie have touched many a life and given hope to other physically challenged outdoors people in what they believed was a hopeless situation. He has also organized groups of ablebodied sportsmen, to serve as aides and companion on these excursions. Eddie helped educate these volunteers as to the needs and abilities of wheelchair hunters and fishermen. Topics such as balance, hypothermia concerns and safety have helped open the public’s eyes to these needs. He also
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
stresses the importance to these volunteers about letting the wheelchair-bound sportsmen physically do what they are capable of doing on their own. This helps build confidence and gives them a feeling of accomplishment. Eddie also networks with recently injured people, explaining to them that their life is not over, and describing methods of how to adapt. He helps these individuals get through some serious depressions Eddie is a role model and inspiration to both physically challenged and able-bodied outdoors people alike. He leads the fight for bills to get passed in legislation that benefit the physically challenged sportsmen. Eddie is more of a role model than most able-bodied men I know. His attitude of “never say quit,” along with his determination and his mental and physical toughness, is greatly complimented by his generous heart and giving nature. He is my hero and role model, and truly deserving of recognition.
BRIDGEVIEW CAMPING & RV PARK AT SCENIC KENTUCKY LAKE
LOCATED BEHIND PARIS LANDING STATE PARK
Commercial & residential Bonded & insured! specializing in metal Buildings!
OR ! UAL ANN Y RATES L I DA
•
GARY PERMENTER CONSTRUCTION NO JOB IS TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL!
THE “HASSLE FREE” FAMILY-ORIENTED RV PARK & CAMPGROUND! • NEW PLAYGROUND! • NEW SHOWER HOUSES! ELECTRIC & WATER HOOK-UPS!
OWNER: Travis Burns 695 Allen Dodson Rd - Buchanan, TN (731) 694-0357
The name to trust in the Mid-South! GARY PERMENTER CONSTRUCTION 4400 LANES FERRY RD - NEWBERN, TN. 731-589-1551
WILLIS HEATING & AIR SERVING DYER COUNTY & SURROUNDING AREA FOR A QUARTER OF A DECADE!
BONDED & INSURED A NAME YOU CAN TRUST! OFFICIAL HVAC BUSINESS FOR THE DYER COUNTY FAIR! WILLIS HEATING & AIR IS MAGAZINE’S WE STO HOPE YOU HAVE A RECOMMENDED HVAC “HOT” TIME, BUSINESS IN WESTAT TENNESSEE THE • PROFESSIONAL “COOLEST” FAIR • AFFORDABLE • DEPENDABLE IN TENNESSEE! • TRUSTWORTHY
125 DAWSON ST. - DYERSBURG, TN 731-285-4406 731-676-7165 APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
13
Visit Us
www.dixiegunworks.com
GUN WORKS, INC. Hwy. 51 South • 1412 W. Reelfoot Avenue • Union City, TN 38261 (Across from Wal-Mart)
731-885-0700 Information
800-238-6785 Orders
WORLD’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTOR OF ANTIQUE & REPLICA BLACKPOWDER FIREARMS & ACCESSORIES Complete Line of Civil War Firearms, Supplies & Accoutrements Indian War Firearms & Leather Goods Cowboy Action Firearms, Clothing, Holsters & Belts A Complete Line of Living History Necessities & Accessories Over 1,000 Original Antique Firearms for Sale Plus a Huge Selection of Books Visit our Showroom and the Old Car Museum • Open 8-5 Mon.-Fri. & 8-12 Sat. Order the Dixie Gun Works Parts & Supplies catalog - Only $ 5.00
Visit Dyer County,Tennessee A Spo rtsman’s Paradise!
Located just 1/2 hour, from beautiful Reelfoot Lake, Dyer County has something for everyone. From the finest motels, restaurants, shopping malls, and bars ... we welcome all sportsmen that are hunting or fishing at the “Quake Lake.” There is nowhere else for miles that can offer hunting and fishing licenses, sporting goods, cost-efficient - yet clean and comfortable lodging, and a cold beer or cocktail. Our restaurants can tempt you with everything from a “Black Angus” ribeye steak - to fast food. The best feature of all, which Dyer County has to offer, is that you will always enjoy your visit with us, in a safe and friendly atmosphere. So, what are you waiting for? As far as area ratings go ... You can’t score higher than Dyer!
www.dyerchamber.com 14
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
GTrRaAsVsISP’Sro Wn LLaAw N CCAaRE re Owned by OWNED BY Kevin TRAVIS Patterson ROBERSON
The Hampton Inn
We’ll handle your “Honey Do List” So you can spend time fishing your “Honey Hole”
of Paris, Tennessee
“FILLS EVERY NEED FOR EVERY CUSTOMER!” Modern & Immaculate Accommodations
MOWING, BUSH HOGGING MOWING, WEED ERADICATION, INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL FERTILIZATION, LIMING, BUSH HOGGING! BONDED & INSURED! IF YOU NEED IT DONE ... WE CAN DO IT! 731-589-0075 731-589-0075 731-445-8291 All Kinds of Activities & Amenities
Best Western - Dyersburg, Tennessee “The choice of visiting sportsmen to Reelfoot Lake” Free High-Speed Internet! Free High SpeedBreakfast! Internet! Complimentary Seasonal Outdoor Built-In Pool!Pool! Minutes MinutesFrom FromReelfoot Reelfoot Lake! Lake! Fine Dining in adjoining Adjoining Perkin’s Restaurant! Perkins Restaurant! Cocktail Lounge in Motel Cocktail Lounge in Motel!
Comfortable, Quiet & Spacious
770 US Hwy. 51 Bypass W. - Dyersburg, TN. - 38024 731/285-8601 Toll Free Reservations: 866-285-8601 www.bestwestern.com
“I personally guarantee yourstay stayatatthe theHampton Hampton Inn Inn in “I personally guarantee your of Paris, Tennesseewill willbe beenjoyable. an enjoyable one. Kelly Henryand andstaff her Paris, Tennessee The management efficient will show you the true meaning of will showstaff youoftheemployees true meaning of “Country Hospitality.” “Southern -Hospitality.” - Rob Somerville Rob Somerville • Laundry/Valet Service • Complimentary Hot Breakfast Daily 6-10 a.m. • Audio/Visual Equipment Rental • Business Center • Fax/Copier • Meeting Rooms • Fitness Room • Pool • And Much, Much More!
HAMPTON INN - PARIS, TN 1510 EAST WOOD STREET 731-642-2838 www.hamptoninn.com
jeremiah.hollingsworth@whiteandassociates.net
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
15
For weekend warriors who like to brave the toughest off-road trails, mud tires, a lift kit and a winch are all essential to their fun as well as their safety and success. Photo by Shane King
16
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
With all the choices these days, what lift kit is right for you? Do you want 3 inches of lift, 6 inches of lift, a body lift, or maybe a suspension lift? What is the difference in each one? Well, it’s always good to understand what is right for you. The first step is to determine what you want to do with your off-road vehicle and if it’s for everyday use or used as a weekend toy. Everyday use means that it’s your main source of transportation. In this case you want to keep the lift moderate and there is no need to purchase too large of a tire. These over-sized tires affect the handling, fuel mileage, dependability and the overall power of your vehicle. For everyday vehicles, this can be achieved with both suspension & body lifts. Just remember, a body lift only lifts the body of the vehicle away from the frame to allow for a larger tire, it does not give you more ground clearance. With suspension lifts you will be able to achieve a better ride and greater overall ground clearance. A suspension lift is my recommendation for everyday usage. The reason for lifting your vehicle is to be able to drive over taller obstacles. A common misconception is that a body lift is cheaper. That is not always the case. The labor cost for the installation sometimes is higher and could take longer. Check with your off-road dealer on prices before you decide on a purchase. Another option for a lift kit is GO BIG! This is what
seems to be the most popular all over. One thing to remember is that 6 and 8 inch lifts may look cooler, but the cost is a lot greater. A lot of major changes are done when doing these types of lifts. The entire front suspension is dropped out For people who will be using their vehicles for every day use, a basic lift kit like the one of the truck pictured here, enhances the look of their truck or jeep. Photo by Shane King and reinstalled. This, for the most than the stock tires, but has a get anywhere the trail leads part, needs to be done by semi –aggressive tread. This you. Suspension lifts, in ada certified installer and not is where cost will come in dition to body lifts, can get some shade tree mechanic. to play. Mud tires are higher you the most lift for the best When doing this, it’s always priced, but have the best trac- price. There are companies better to use a shop that of- tion for any situation during out there that offer lift kits fers a warranty! Also, the off-roading. The all-terrain of 10 inches or larger, but be front end of the vehicle must tires, for most people, are forewarned; the cost is much be realigned. Now, your ve- the better choice for every- higher. Now that you have hicle is in the air rolling on day driving. They are a high- your vehicle in the sky and 35’s or bigger and the ques- er mileage tire, ride quieter big mud tires roaring down tion that comes about is, is on the road and the cost will the road, you’re not done yet. my speedometer still accu- be lower. In my opinion, the Because of the height of the rate? No, your speed will be mud tires always look better! new tires your vehicle is low off and the speedometer has Now for all the weekend on power and your top speed to be corrected. This is not a toy owners, this is the cool- will be slower too. This is big problem. Most trucks can est way to go off-roading in because the rear gear ratio be corrected by the dealer my opinion. has changed. To correct this, or aftermarket programmer. In this scenario, you are a lower gear ratio must be Now you should have deter- lifting a vehicle that is not purchased and installed. Most mined what type of lift you for your daily driver. Every qualified shops can take tire want if your vehicle is main- upgrade can be aimed toward height and engine size to dely for everyday use. getting through deep mud termine the correct gear ratio There are really only two types of tires you want to choose from at this point. They are a mud tire that has aggressive tread for the greatest amount of traction, or an all-terrain tire that is better
and over large obstacles. Because off-roading is hard on your vehicle and breaking down is just part of it, you will not want to depend on this type of lift kit on a vehicle you need to get to work on Monday. Big lifts and big tires are the best way to
that you need. This will get more power to the ground quicker. If you are going to change gears, this would be the best time to lock the front end, depending on what type of vehicle you have. In this case, let‘s use a jeep for continued on next page
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
17
Start to finish automotive dyersburg, tennessee THE MID-SOUTH’S EXPERTS IN TRUCK & CAR CUSTOMIZING! •
FULL SERVICE BODY SHOP • INSURED • BONDED • LICENSED
CUSTOM PAINTING • AUDIO & VIDEO • LIFT KITS • CUSTOM TIRES & WHEELS • SUSPENSION SYSTEMS • VINYL SIGNS & LETTERS • A ROUGH COUNTRY OUTDOORS DEALER • RACING & HOTROD ACCESSORIES
1505 E Court St, Dyersburg, TN 38024 » (731) 286-4927 example. Most jeeps do not have locking front axels. This means that when they are offroading, only one wheel pulls at a time. It’s a big advantage to have both wheels pulling when on the trail. With these options, there is a certain amount of maintenance that’s required. Check all the bolts in the front and rear, because with all the torque the vehicle uses on the trail, they will often loosen or can even break. A good cleaning and greasing never hurts ei-
ther. Now you’re ready to go further and deeper down the trail. Most people would be finished with their off-road vehicle at this point. They forget one thing. What would happen if way down the trail they get stuck?
This issue requires one more essential item, either buy a winch, or have a dependable friend that owns one. It’s not a bad idea to purchase your own recovery
PREMIER AUT0 SALES
JACK & BRANDY GWALTNEY 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN SATISFYING CUSTOMERS! HIGH QUALITY VEHICLES IN THE $2,000- $3,000 RANGE! IN-HOUSE FINANCING!
431 W. REELFOOT AVE - UNION CITY, TN - 38261 731-885-4700
18
system. Winches used to be very expensive and only were used some of the time. There are companies now that sell good winches at a very reasonable price. I would recommend one, because you don’t want to be left on the trail, waiting for a friend to answer his cell phone and come to pull you out.
This article addresses only the basics of choosing a lift kit and getting your vehicle ready for off-road trails. With more and more aftermarket parts being offered, there is no limit to making your rig trail ready. Remember to always respect trail boundaries and private property while off-roading and report anyone who does not, because it’s your responsibility to ensure everyone
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
will still have a place to enjoy off-roading!
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
19
D.R.’s Auto Repair & SERVICE CENTER
LAKE ROAD BP - AMOCO OWNER: BART GILLON
A Full Service Station!
Tires, Propane {LP Gas}, Brake Service, Starters, Alternators .... and all Types of Mechanical Repairs!
Quality Service and Reasonable Rates! When I am in need of vehicle repairs, or servicing, I always go see my good friend Daniel, who owns D.R. Auto Repair & Service Center in Kenton, Tennessee. - Rob Somerville
WE NOW CARRY THE ALL NEW DUCK COMMANDER “WAKE MAKER” DECOY SYSTEMS!
520 Lake Road Dyersburg TN. 38024 1-731-286-2999
J & P Machine Repair Jim and Preston Seratt
BRAKES - TUNE-UPS ELECTRICAL REPAIRS AND INSPECTION ALL MAJOR AND MINOR MECHANICAL REPAIRS - TIRE ROTATIONS HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS.
530 N. Poplar - Kenton, TN.
731-749-5333
WEST TENNESSEE GOLF CARS SALES & SERVICE - DYERSBURG, TN.
SPECIALIZING IN DIESEL, AUTO AND FARM EQUIPMENT, TRUCK FLEET CARE AND PARTS DEPARTMENT “ FOR ALL YOUR HEAVY DUTY SERVICE & PARTS NEEDS”
2008 Forrest St. Ext. - Dyersburg, TN. - 38024 731-285-4888 While you’re hunting or fishing on Reelfoot Lake, stop by and see Johanna and her crew for a quick, delicious meal. Or, beat the heat with our “World Famous” ice cream. Dine-in or eat outside on our Patio!! Home owned and operated
NEW & USED CARTS - PARTS & ACCESSORIES HUGE ASSORTMENT OF O’NEAL TRAILERS
731-253-6311 HWY 78 - Tiptonville
Less than 5 min from Reelfoot Lake
“Something Different” 20
1295 HWY 51 BY-PASS - DYERSBURG, TN - 38024 731-286-6275 800-264-1175
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
www.wetec.com
BUCKETS
NEIGHBORHOOD PUB & GRUB “A Great Place to Eat and Hang Out”
Buckets Neighborhood Pub and Grub is a locally owned, family oriented sports pub where the regulars are greeted by name and jerseys representing local and state teams adorn the walls. The Bucket’s servers bop around to the beat of 70’s and 80’s rock as they serve up such treats as our famous all meat Code Blue Pizza washed down with a cold draught beer. Or dig in to a mound of our Super Cajun Nachos, enough to feed you and five of your friends. Peel-N-Eat shrimp, buffalo wings tossed in your favorite sauce, salads, seafood, juicy strip steak, tasty half pound burgers and oven toasted grinders help round out our extensive menu ... something for everyone, even the kids! With our full bar, Buckets is also a great place to kick back with your friends while you watch your favorite sports on one of our 21 TV’s.
Karoake Every 2nd Saturday of month!
Awesome Auto Show April 30th!
“Buckets is the place to go after a day enjoying Reelfoot Lake”
Rob Somerville
1700 W. Reelfoot Ave. - Union City, TN - 38261
731-885-6646
HYDRAULICS BEARINGS & PARTS FOR HOME, FARM & FLEET
LET US FURNISH YOUR ... HUNTING LODGE OR CABIN!
Dyersburg 501 East Court 121 King Ave.St. Dyersburg, TN 38024 731-285-1543 Jackson 982 Lower Brownsville Rd. Jackson, TN. 38301 731-427-7725
Jackson Handy Home Center 330 South Royal Street Jackson, TN 38301 731-423-0115
Humboldt Hwy. 70A-79 By-Pass Humboldt, TN 38343 731-784-1761
Union City 1501 South First St. Union City, TN 38261 731-885-5063
www.hcisupply.com
213 W. Court St. - Dyersburg,TN. - 38024 731-285-5201 - www.ygafco.com
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
21
To be a successful turkey hunter, it is always good to know where the birds roost, which is usually by a water source. Photo courtesy the NWTF
22
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
he woods are deathly calm. The sun is just about to peak out over the eastern horizon. A barred owl lets out his raspy laugh. Seemingly, out of nowhere, an echo sounds from the “King of Spring” as he lets out a gobble – announcing to his harem that he is ready for some female attention. The lone turkey hunter feels the hair stand up on the back of his neck. The adrenaline is rushing through his veins and his heart beats like a bongo drum. A critical decision must be made. Should he try to close the distance to improve his odds of harvesting this bearded trophy? How can he do just that, without bumping the bird? The key to solving this problem is all in knowing the terrain you are hunting. You must be a master of the “terrain game.” In the western portion of the Volunteer State, we have three different types of terrain: flooded timber and swamps, small areas of timber with oak ridges and agricultural fields surrounded by fencerows of trees. I will share some strategies for all hunting success on hunting all three of these types of habitat.
ceiling fan and cottonmouths thick around as my forearm in these turkey hideaways. Sometimes, I come out of the swamps – muddy from head to toe, but there are also trophy gobblers, some of which have never heard a man-operated turkey call.” He continued, “These birds will be roosting over sloughs or swamp filled ditches. They are secure in the knowledge that they are roosting in a secluded fortress, safe from predators. The toms are extremely vocal and you can slip up on them through the slash water in the dark, as they are used to hearing deer and other animals entering the woods after their nocturnal feeding binge.” Jason was adamant about terrain when hunting swamp birds. He said, “In the early season, there is not much foliage. You must utilize ditches and levees to slip closer to the birds. Halfway through
the season, greenery becomes more prevalent, which allows you to stealthily slip in closer.”
Stuart Wolcott is the owner
and operator of the most successful turkey hunting guide service in middle Tennessee. That means steep ridges, deep hollows and sharp drop offs. I know from experience that you better be in good, physical shape to keep up when he is chasing a bird. He relies on his intimate knowledge of the 3000 acre hunting area he manages to get his clients within killing range of a trophy set of spurs. With a 90% success rate, and when you factor in shaky nerves and “turkey fever,” he obviously is an expert on hunting hill terrain birds. Stu said, “It is imperative to try and roost birds the previous evening. The oak ridges are full of a deep bed of dry leaves that takes stealth out of the strategic plan, unless you are fortunate enough to hunt after a noise-buffering rain. If you can’t get set up and bust one right after he comes off the roost, you continued on next page
Jason Edmonds has been “gobbler getting” for fifteen years. He also serves as the head guide at Ultimate Waterfowlers in northern Illinois. His specialty is in going after trophy birds in locations where the more timid hunters fear to tread. Jason said, “There are mosquitoes that are big enough to stop a APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
23
must use the terrain to your advantage. That means, if you hear a gobbler in a hollow, you should drop down on the other side of the ridge and close the distance, out of eyesight of the tom. Sometimes, discreetly setting a single hen decoy on top of the ridge will seal the deal. Call softly, because the reverberation of your calling has a tendency to echo through the hollows. It is important to remember that a turkey has about a hundred times better hearing than a human.”
24
I love “gobbler getting.” I believe that the key to a successful turkey harvest when hunting this type of terrain is to “Keeping it Real.” My best advice I can give is what my mother told me a long time ago, when I was a kid, “Sit down and shut up!” I like Mother Nature to wake up and lay the groundwork for me. Let the owls and hawks shock-gobble the birds for you. Every time you call, you give away your location. Calling is important, but when hunting this type of flat, open terrain – call wisely.” I like to use soft clucks and purrs, and stay away from yelps, because many of these birds have heard this type of call throughout the season. Another tactic I utilize concerns decoys. In the woods, decoys set out in front of you. Decoy manufacturers sell a lot of decoys for their company while viewed in hunting videos. But, how many times have you had decoys set up, twenty yards in front of you and had a gobbler “hang up” forty yards in front of the decoys. I like to put the decoys behind me. I use two feeding hens and a jake. I recommend setting the hens up so that one is facing directly away from you and the other is sideways. Place the jake where it is behind you and facing your back. A mature gobbler won’t be able to stand the fact that a “teenager” is getting the attention of the ladies and they won’t even look at him. This also makes the gobbler walk
285-0565
www.whiteandassociates.net
220 N. Main
Suite G100, Dyersburg
Home • Auto • Life • Health • Business • Farm ●NOT A DEPOSIT ●NOT FDIC INSURED ●NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY (Except for Federal Crop Insurance or Federal Flood Insurance) ●NOT BANK GUARANTEED ●INVESTMENTS MAY LOSE VALUE
through you to get to your set up, facing the jake headon in a confrontational mode, which gives you a forty yard
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
advantage to having the decoys in front of you.” I want to thank my two friends for their time-tested, turkey hunting tactics and tips. Please remember to be safe in the turkey woods this season, and I know both of these men feel as I do, from their work introducing children safely and ethically into the outdoor lifestyle. They know that our kids truly are our most precious natural resource. They are our future.
This gobbler struts his stuff for the ladies. STO stock photo
Randy Brooks 125 Everett Ave Dyersburg 731-285-1275
Hadley Malone 1212 2nd Ave Union City 731-885-9303
Michael Harris 1798 Hwy 51S Covington 901-476-5221
Mason Ashburn 208 W Eaton Trenton 731-855-2591
Bryant Rhodes 810 Morrow St Dresden 731-364-3138
We’ve got you covered! fbitn.com
.
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
25
This is the swinging bridge that can be found along the walking trails at Fort Pillow Historic State Park, outside of Henning, Tennessee. -STO file photo
26
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
have always enjoyed the outdoors and discovering nature. Just recently, I have re-discovered it all over again, while on a walking trail at Reelfoot Lake. When I was younger we had a cabin at Cold Creek. It was past Fort Pillow prison, just outside of Henning, Tennessee. It was a great place, located right under the Bluff. I was 15 years-old, had me a Honda 70 dirt bike and all those woods to explore. Anderson Tully is what the area used to be called and there were logging roads all through those woods that were great for walking, but I was a motor cycle mama. I could pop a wheelie and blow a bubble at the same time. So, I rode that dirt bike everywhere. In the 1980’s there began construction of a new state park, right above the bluff where we lived. It was the 1600 acre, Fort Pillow State Historic Park. Wow, it was right at my back door. Now I could ride the trails they had prepared for hiking. These trails were white gravel with crossties for steps. I felt like Evil Knievel on an obstacle course. But, when I got caught, and the park
killing of 229 Union soldiers, out of the 262 engaged in the battle. This slaughter by the EVERY MOUNT IS A Southern Don’t trust troops just anyone. led by Trust a State, National & World Award Gen. Nathan Winning Taxidermists! “Quality Work at a Bedford Reasonable Price” Forrest Member T.T.A. & N.T.A. has been labeled a massaofficial pointed out a “NO ing the Mississippi River. In cre. Remains of the earthMOTORIZED VEHICLES 1861, the Confederate Army works are well-preserved. ALLOWED’’ sign, I thought built extensive fortifications Some of the trails are over to myself that he is probably here and named the site for two miles long and the one the one who owns the sign General Gideon J. Pillow, of that I loved the most was Maury County, Tennessee. business that makes them. where a swinging bridge So, I started walking I had no idea that all I’ve crosses a very deep ravine. the trails. My friends and I been hearing about General It wasn’t what you are probwould climb the bluff be- Nathan Bedford Forrest, that ably thinking, some rickhind our cabin (short cut) his battle was fought at Fort ety old bridge. No, it was and come out right where the Pillow. The Confederate vicbuild very sturdy. Before I battle grounds were, on the tory at the Battle of Fort Pilgot caught riding my motor Chickasaw Bluffs, overlook- low (April 1864) ended in the
PHONE (731)286-0853 • 1529 MORGAN RD., DYERSBURG
WILKERSON’S TAXIDERMY TROPHY
WALTER & TERRY WILKERSON
cycle in the park, I could ride across it. I would blow a bubble and watch it float to the water. Sounds like it doesn’t take too much to amuse me, does it? The battlegrounds on the bluff create a great lookout view over the Mississippi River and it is right over where our cabin was. It is such a fun place to be, whether in the summer or winter. Now that we spend so much time at Reelfoot Lake, I love walking the pier that’s by the bird sanctuary. It’s not a long walk and is such a beautiful one. I love being outdoors, because there is no greater way to relax than with Mother Nature. So, get your family and friends together and “take a hike’’ on walking trails. It would be healthy for you and your family, both physically and mentally and maybe I will see you there!
BUDGET MOVERS YOUR TRI-STATE AREA MOVING EXPERTS!
NO JOB IS TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL! JERRY JOYNER 470 MALL BOULEVARD DYERSBURG, TN - 38024 731-286-6683 CELL: 731-377-8693 APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
27
These three does have their tails flagging high in alarm, as they are preparing to flee, because they detected something unfamiliar in their area. Photo by Rob Somerville
28
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
ost of the more renowned hunting icons that I have had the pleasure conversing about hunting with have shared a common thread. They all believe that in order to be consistently successful in harvesting big game, one must first learn proper woodsmanship skills. So what is woodsmanship? In this article, we will study this concept, to help us better understand exactly what woodsmanship means.
vive predation. Think about it for a moment. As an example to prove this theory, I will use the two most popularly hunted big game animals in North America – the whitetail deer and the wild turkey.
Turkeys, without a doubt, are the most elusive and unpredictable species to hunt in the Southeastern United States. For a bird that has a brain smaller than a pingpong ball, they continually frustrate “gobbler getters” year after year. They seemThe first step in mastering ingly have eyes in the back the woods is to understand of their head and sometimes that animals and birds have I think they can see a flea Mother Nature on their side. wink at 50 yards. Their suTheir physiology has adapted per-charged hearing allows over centuries for one simple them to pin point the locareason – in order to procreate tion of a hunter at 200 yards Ex_HalfPage.pdf 3/16/11 2:48:59 PM their species they must sur- away, from a simple purr on
a diaphragm call. Turkeys have developed these survival skills by being the prey of hunters for centuries, first for food and later for sport. Their natural senses of survival are only weakened for a short period of time, in the spring of the year, when a stronger need takes over their system – the urge to mate. They then become like all males of every species - careless, foolish and single mindedly desiring to mate.
Whitetails are live-wired, high-tech, alert systems. They are equipped with mini-radar dishes for ears, which can rotate independently from each other, constantly scanning the airwaves for any un-
natural sound that is uncommon to their natural habitat. A deer can smell water from over two miles away. So, if you happened to stop off for a pre-hunt Egg McMuffin in the morning prior to climbing into a deerstand, you smell as out of place to them as a McDonald’s Restaurant does in the woods. You might as well hang up a big sign saying “I am here to kill you, you better leave.” A deer’s eyes are located on the sides of their head, giving them nearly a 360-degree field of vision. They can move through a woods full of brittle, dead branches as quietly as a ninja. Even with all of the high-tech camo patterns available to hunters nowadays, a deer’s natural continued on next page
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
29
coloration works better and allows them to literally disappear in the woods – seemingly at will.
Alas, there is hope! Science has proven that human beings are the only creatures on earth with the ability to reason. That is where woodsmanship skills come in. When you step in to the woods you are entering the creatures of the wild that you are pursuing’s home including their bedroom, kitchen and living room. Sawing off a limb can mean you are sending a signal of intrusion similar to as if I walked in to your house and moved your favorite recliner from your den to your bathroom. Good woodsmanship requires becoming one with the habitat. You must move with stealth, be scent free as
possible and become as invisible in the woods as you can. Woodsmanship requires proper scouting. You must learn the lay of the land you are hunting; including your prey’s feeding, bedding areas and travel routes. You must find where the species you are hunting is feeding, sleeping and watering during all times of the year. These locations may change due to hunting traffic, agricultural crops being harvested, acorns dropping, insect population, etc. A good woodsman must be able to read tracks and signs that their prey is leaving and know when to move and when to be as still as a statue for long periods of time. You must have patience! Over time, you will learn to be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing.
skills you might ask? Sure, you can start by reading outdoor magazines and watching hunting videos and TV Shows. That will give you a basic building block for success. But the best way to sharpen your skills is by experience itself. Spend time in the woods. When you make a mistake, learn from this experience. When you see a deer with his tail flagged high and emitting a shrill alarm snort, ask yourself what happened and why. Figure out what you did {or should have done} when a big gobbler, strutting at 60 yards and coming right towards you, all of a sudden cranes up his neck and putts, running or flying off faster than you believed was possible.
Anytime I happen to be around someone who I believe is proficient at hunting a certain species, I bombard How do you attain these them with questions. It is also a good idea to tag along with one of these wily veterans on scouting forays. More often than not, you will notice that they pick on Deer will tell you where they travel, as witnessed by this huge rub made by a big buck, u p during the pre-rut. Photo by Rob Somerville details that 30
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
you may have overlooked. Learn from these experiences. Spend as much time in the woods as your schedule allows. It is the ultimate classroom. Do a lot of listening and looking, and very little walking. It will amaze you as to what Mother Nature is willing to share.
Summary
Nature has equipped the wildlife we pursue with many survival tools. The Good Lord has seen fit, in His infinite wisdom to supply us with brains with which to reason. I have found that when I am properly prepared, slow down and analyze a situation and plan out a strategy, I have a better chance for a successful harvest. We should all learn something new every time we enter the woods. I know I do. If you ever hear someone refer to themselves as an expert on deer or turkey, keep in mind what my friend Harold Knight said when he was being referred to as an expert on deer and turkey by a fan at an outdoor event, the founder of Knight & Hale Game Calls. Harold replied, “Wait a minute friend. I am by no means an expert on deer and turkey. I am merely a student and admirer of these species. The only expert on deer and turkey, are the deer and turkey themselves.” Sound like pearls of wisdom from a man of experience to me. Please always remember that our kids truly are our most precious natural resource. They are our future!
Lankford Taxidermy
3070 Thompson School Rd. Huntingdon, Tennessee - 38344 Phone (731) 986-3351 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Specializing in
Fish Mountings and Birds - 50 Years Experience -
Licensed General Contractors Value Engineering / Constructability Analysis Over 30 years experience - since 1981 Scope Includes New Construction (Home or Additions/Garages/Attic and Basement Build Outs/Sunrooms Renovations (partial or full-house makeovers) Kitchens Bathrooms Construction Management Maintenance Contracts Repairs/Improvements Disaster Recovery Insurance Claim Specialists Repair – Rebuild - Total Restoration HVAC Electrical Interior Trim (crown molding, tile, cabinets, etc…) Painting (Interior and Exterior) Energy Improvements delivers projects on-time and within budget, then work with Renovation Plus Construction. - Rob Somerville 6401 Hwy 51 Bypass E. - Dyersburg, TN - 38024 731.445.3722 www.rpcconstruction.com
acORn POint lOdge On Scenic ReelfOOt lake
World Renowned Bass, Crappie, Catfish And Bluegill Fishing On The Quake Lake! Call now for our specially discounted fishing packages! Includes lodging, boat, bait and one bag of ice Ultimate Fishing/Hunting on Scenic Reelfoot Lake! Ducks, Geese, Trophy Bass, Crappie, Catfish and Bream on the world’s greatest naturally formed fishery.
Most Modern Lodge On Reelfoot
Hunting: Lodging, blind, decoys, guide and two meals in blind
Fishing: Lodging, boat, bait, ice and breakfast NO PETS PLEASE
On Reelfoot Lake, Hwy. 22 and Lake Drive
Just outside of Samburg, TN city limits! Mailing Address:
1685 Lake Drive, Hornbeak, TN 38232 Email: info@acornpointlodge.com
www.acornpointlodge.com - Phone: 731-538-9800 - Fax: 731-538-9007 APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
31
n a past issue, we studied the rich history of the Mountain Men of early American history. In this article I will attempt to bridge that rich history to today’s trappers. As a model, I will use my dear friend Richard Smith, who is a master trapper and animal control expert. We will meet this unique man and find out about his passion for the art of trapping. Then I will conduct a series of interview questions and answers with Richard, to help better inform our readers about this tremendous American heritage.
ball, Richard’s leisure time was spent in the woods or at neighboring swamps. He absorbed every bit of information on mountain men and early trappers in our country. He built simple snares and live traps to test his young woodsmanship skills as a boy. In some ways, Richard was born a century too late. He belonged in a time when a man’s worth was judged by his survival skills, and his ability to provide food, shelter and clothing from the land.
Richard was raised in a rural community in Northwest Tennessee called Woodland Mills. As a small boy he was always bringing home wild pets. He was intrigued by them and studied them passionately. While others were playing baseball or foot-
For over three decades now, Richard has studied and learned the animals of the woods and waters of the Volunteer State. Though never attending college courses on animal biology, he utilized the most extensive classroom of them all, the outdoors.
Through trial and error Richard has become, in my opinion, the foremost authority on trapping in our region. In fact, he knows so much about basic survival skills that I often told my kids that if we ever got invaded by another country, I would rush my family to Richard’s house.
Richard originally applied to become an animal control expert, to allow him to trap year-round. But, word of his skill soon became known and soon the title provided a lucrative income. He is licensed for animal control in Tennessee and Kentucky, but has trapped in nearly every southern state as well, even as far west as the Rocky Mountains. He has been invited to, and successfully competed in the World Champion Coyote trapping
championship for the past five years, held on an Indian reservation in New Mexico He travels to various states, attending trapper’s conventions and fur sales. He is a member of the National Trappers Association, Fur Takers of America, the New York State Trappers Association, the Texas Trapper’s Association and the Tennessee Fur Harvesters Association. He often gives seminars on trapping, especially to groups of youth, because he believes as we do that they are our most precious natural resource. He wants to see more youngsters educated about the rich history of trapping and introduced to the sport. I selected the following questions to ask Richard, because I felt they would be of interest to our readers. Why do you feel trapping is misunderstood by the general public?
KT Construction McKenzie, TN
ALL TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION! INCLUDING: ELECTRICAL REMODELING VINYL WINDOWS CONCRETE WORK SEPTIC TANK SYSTEMS Licensed and Bonded!
731-234-9730 32
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
Richard is shown standing in front of a season’s worth of pelts he trapped, skinned, scraped and cured. Photo by Rob Somerville
There is a lot of misinformation and a lack of education regarding trapping. For example, I’ve heard several people say that an animal caught in a leg trap will gnaw off its own foot to escape. This couldn’t be further from the truth. With enforced wildlife laws, a leg trap in our state causes no more discomfort than a pair of handcuffs would to a human being. Trapping is simply an animal management tool, regulated by state wildlife officials. The harvests and quotas are set to maintain an even balance on the wildlife as well as the environment. Is it safe to trap for wild animals where domestic animals could be located?
An experienced trapper will use a live trap in this situation. This is basically a cage that an animal enters for purposes of shelter, or due to the use of a musk or food scent being used as a lure. They step on a release tab, which shuts the door behind them causing absolutely no harm. Even leg hold style traps, used in Tennessee, have rubber pads that will hold an animal, but cause them no damage. These can be easily sprung by hand, and the animal released. Why is trapping such a necessity that the state licenses an animal control expert like yourself? Different animals
can cause various problems. For example, beavers can dam up creeks and flood precious hardwood timber and/or crops, causing irrefutable resource damage to precious hardwood timber as well as loss of financial income to our area farmers. Coyotes can decimate cattle, hogs, and sheep herds, as well as cripple the population of wild turkey, deer fawns, quail, and rabbit. Fox and raccoons destroy nearly 75%
of all duck eggs during the nesting season. The same examples go for bobcats. Not to mention the fact that many family pets have been caught and eaten by these two predators. In the western states predation by these animals approaches monetary damages of nearly 100 million dollars. Muskrats destroy levees on rivers, ponds, and streams, and if left unchecked can literally continued on next page
ROBBIE’S KARAOKE LOUNGE OPEN:
THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
1140 Hwy 51 Bypass South Dyersburg, TN 731-288-0234
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
33
empty out a quality bass pond or duck slough. All sportsmen who hunt or fish benefit from trapping. - How active has your animal control business become? - There are not enough hours in the day to field the calls I receive. - I bet you run into some interesting situations, I take it? - Yes, I do. I have had to catch and release live, a family of squirrels, which were nesting in an elderly ladies attic. She was convinced that something the size of the Loch Ness monster was hiding up there waiting to eat her. I have also had to trap out skunks that
. decided to call their home the underneath of house trailers. Many cattle farmers have called me to stop the predation of all of their young calves from coyote. And I even had to catch the coons and possum, which were destroying the newly laid putting greens on a local golf course. I meet some interesting people, which I thoroughly enjoy. - What determines the fur prices, and is that what most hard-core trappers are in the sport for? - Foreign countries dictate fur prices for the most part. Approximately 75% to 90% of furs taken in the states get exported. Countries like Greece, Italy, China, and Korea share a
WHEN I STEP ON TO YOUR FARM I am DEDICATED to serving you. I will offer you only the BEST SEED for your farm. I represent a national brand that focuses its research on YOUR SUCCESS I AM DYNA-GRO
34
large part of the market, and the prices will vary due to supply and demand. As for the second part of your question, dedicated trappers would have quit long ago if they were only in it to make money. The sale of pelts basically covers expenses for the average trapper. They do it for the love of the sport and the challenge. What safety concerns must be addressed when trapping? Trapping seasons are set during winter months; therefore hypothermia must be a concern as trappers are continually around water and freezing temperatures. Another hazard is falling through ice on sloughs and ponds. If you fall through i c e i n d e e p w a t e r, y o u
could get disoriented and not be able to find the hole you fell through to escape back out. Of course you should have a good working knowledge of traps and all essential trapping tools. The caping and skinning knives are razor sharp. Releasing bobcats, mountain lions, and bears unharmed can also be dangerous as well as unnerving. How about describing a typical day trapping? Yo u w a k e u p about 4:00am, and it is freezing cold outside. But your anticipation of what you caught makes you feel like a little kid on Christmas morning. Regardless of the weather, as a responsible trapper, you must go out and
Call a CPS sales representative for your area: Clint Hutchison - Mgr. Steve North Steve Rice Marty Hinson Barry Ward Barry Cooke - Fertilizer Manager 2842 Highway 88 S. - Bells, TN. - 38006 (731) 663-0100
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
check each trap to take or release the animal you have snared. It isn’t like getting up to go squirrel hunting and seeing the rain pouring down and crawling back in to your warm bed. You spend all day checking and resetting your traps and return home. Then the work begins. Dressing, caping, skinning, stretching, and drying the pelts carries you long in to the night. You trudge wearily to bed for a short four-hour nap and then begin the process again. I guess you have to love the lifestyle? - I wouldn’t have it any other way. - How can a newcomer get started? The best way is to accompany an experienced
trapper for a season. But there are many videos, magazines, and books on the subject, which are informative. The local library can be an excellent resource. As we grew quiet and the sun was setting over the icedover slough, I glanced over at my long-time friend Richard with a newfound respect. He stood with his long, curly beard, flecked with wisps of gray and his moustache Here is the modern day trapper standing thigh deep, in frigid frosted with ice. His he removes a beaver from one of his expertly placed traps. breath sent plumes of Photo by Rob Somerville vapor in to the frigid For more information on air. I realized he was in his trapping or Richard’s Anielement. He truly is a modern mal Control Service, contact day mountain man. him at 1-731-588-1154.
Professional
DUSTY JOE’S STAKEOUT
Real Estate Group
Specializing in all types of property, including hunting ground, wildlife management areas, game hunting leases, farm property, and more. Please contact me for all your real estate needs.
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT! OUR COOK SAYS THAT HE KNOWS HOW HUNGRY AND THIRSTY YOU CAN GET HUNTING & FISHING ALL DAY, SO HE IS INVITING ALL SPORTSMEN, WHO SHOW US THEIR HUNTING OR FISHING LICENSE, TO GET 10% OFF ON ANY OF OUR NEW PORTERHOUSE STEAK DINNERS! WE ALSO HAVE THE PRETTIEST BARTENDERS AND SERVERS.. OH YEA ... THE FOOD IS THE BEST IN WEST TENNESSEE TOO!
Hunter Newbill’s first name describes him just right. He is a dedicated outdoorsman, who is very involved with introducing today’s youth, safely and ethically, into the outdoor lifestyle. He is a perfect choice for sportsmen or farmers that are shopping for a home, hunting land, farm acreage, or recreational property. Eddie Anderson - Co-owner STO Magazine
JUST TWENTY MINUTES FROM REELFOOT LAKE
COLD BEER
575 MALL BLVD. DYERSBURG, TN. 731.287.1350
water, as
MIXED DRINKS
Hunter Newbill
Broker - GRI - CRS - ABR 2455 Lake Rd. - Suite 8 - Dyersburg, TN. {Off.} 731-285-5505 {Cell} 731-445-9998 hunter@dyersburg.com www.dyersburg.com
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
35
“Did your hair slip from your head to your face?” I don’t have children of my own. Lately, I’d been bemoaning my pathetic love life even more than the onset of male pattern baldness. On this exasperating day alone with my perceptive godson, however, I began to believe that my involuntary celibacy had unintended benefits. Travis felt it was high time I took him deer hunting. At the age of 6, he has already killed several Boone and Crocket animals. He even has a world record Russian red stag under his belt. Travis was convinced that “Big Game Hunter 2005” in CD-ROM had prepared him for the “real” big woods experience. This is the same kid who slammed into a tree while fleeing in terror from lightning bugs. For his birthday, I had given the little toe-headed monster a complete camo get-up, including face paint, boots and a hat with a snazzy buck badge on it. Travis showed up for the hunt with red gym shoes, no hat, a clean face and the camo paint all gooped up in his hair to form a makeshift mohawk. He was adamant that the hat and boots were to be worn
only in the bathtub. He was too inexperienced to wield a weapon, but he could still tag along and learn how to still-hunt from “the master.” I was to be the omniscient teacher and he the willing student. As we trudged up the hill leading to the hunting area, I could tell he already needed a rest. “You sound out of breath,” I said. “No, I’ve got more.” While we took a break, I laid down a few ground rules for sneaking up on deer. I explained that he was to stay a few paces behind me, carefully avoiding the leaves and sticks, which would crunch noisily underfoot. Of course, no talking was allowed. “If you have to go to the bathroom, Travis, just raise your hand.” “How will that help?” he replied. We barely got underway when a bit of beginner’s luck smiled upon us. As we snaked our way out of the cedars, there she was, a doe - nosing her way through the fallen persimmons. She was solo, so she had apparently had an unsuccessful fawning year. Only one set of eyes to fool, we were down-wind and she was totally preoccu-
pied with feeding. Just one more step to clear the honeysuckle and I’d have a perfect, 19 yard shot. It doesn’t get any sweeter than that. As I drew my bow, I heard the crash behind me. Through my peep sight, I witnessed the all-too-familiar scene of a tail flagging in alarm as the doe disappeared into the forest. Game over. I whirled around to see Travis sprawled out on the ground, tangled up in the branches of a blow-down. I shot him a contemptuous glance, and he timidly responded, “ Yo u d i d n ’ t s a y n u t hin’ about me practicin’ cartwheels.” Honestly, I was pretty miffed, but at least I had the presence of mind to spell my reaction instead of scream it. “Oh, D-A-M-N!” “O, P-Q-R-S,” Travis muttered. He then tossed an
acorn into the air and swatted it with a stick, accidentally producing a ground-rule double off of my noggin and presumably out of the ball park. “Come on, Travis. Can’t you act like a big boy?” True to form, Travis managed to answer a question with more questions. “How am I posed to know how a big boy acts? This is the oldest I’ve ever been in my whole entire life. Lemme ast you someping else. Why don’t they have mouse-flavored cat food? It was time to bring in the big guns. I employed a ruse that had worked effectively on my younger brother when he started talking too much. I explained that we are only given a certain amount of words to say in a lifetime and that we would eventually run out of them. I emphasized that it’s important not to use them all up too soon.
Touchdown Club
Bar & Grill
Live entertainment thursday - sunday! Famous homemade Burgers! happy hour daiLy
2pm to 6 pm!
2695 lake rd - dyersburg, tn. 731-286-4700 36
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
“Mom said you’d try that. Mom said that’s supposively the reason your brother’s got a bipolarbear disorder. Mom said you’re a sick indibidyool.” As his mother had prepared him well for my deception, I saw no way to coax him into stealth mode. I was forced to go to Plan B. I would abandon the hunt and teach the boy about woodsmanship. My command of the outdoors would surely impress him. Remembering the old “Crocodile Dundee” trick, I snuck a peak at my watch and then hid it in my pocket. I bragged that a good woodsman can tell what time it is just by looking at the sun. “Looks like it’s about 3:20.” Squinting at the sun, Travis replied, “I can’t quite
make out the numbers.” He went on to reveal that the sun is actually a star, but it still knows how to change back into the sun in the daytime. As we continued our nature walk, I slowly forgot that my goal on that day had been to take an animal’s life. Listening to the “blurtations” of Travis took me back to the beauty and innocence of my own childhood. Somehow, I awakened to embrace his incessant gabbing. In fact, the teacher became the student and I wanted to learn more. Only the enlightened mind of a child could extrapolate that leaves only “sweat” in the morning and that mushrooms are shaped like umbrellas, because it’s always wet where they live. Even his questions had me baffled. “Why do people take the
air’s temperature? Is it sick?” Too complicated. “Why don’t spiders get stuck in their own web?” Not too sure about that one. “What do you call a boy ladybug?” Didn’t have a clue. I became a much better hunter on that day. Somewhere along the line, I had stopped trying to look at nature from different angles, but a literal “babe in the woods” had given me another perspective. I realized that the hunt is more for life than for death. Some of nature’s questions are best left unanswered. Thus, the
hunt goes on forever. Kneeling down, I gave Travis a big bear hug for being such an amazing mentor. I opened a can of 7-UP and offered it to him as a proud godfather does for his godson. After quenching his thirst, he gazed up at me with fizz on his upper lip and squinched his nose in deep thought. “What happened to the first 6 Ups?”
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
37
Chase Tubbs killed this nice buck on Dec. 24th, 2011 while hunting with his dad, James on Tumble Weed in Lake County, Tennessee. Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
38
Franklin Agee is pictured here with his first turkey harvested ever! He took this gobbler on March 25th of this year, while hunting with his dad - Jeff Agee, on his papa’s farm. Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
The proud angler pictured with this nice bluegill is Jake Joyce. He was fishing with his dad, Finis Joyce Jr. and his grandfather, Finis Joyce Sr. at Lake Cormorant, in Mississippi. Photo by Finis Joyce Jr.
Luke Lanier is pictured with his first turkey harvest on March 24th, while hunting with his Poppy (Jimmy Lanier) at Poppy’s woods in the Roellen bottoms of Dyer County, TN. Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
Tyler Mason and David Mitchell are pictured here with each hunter having a longbeard slung over their shoulder after an awesome morning hunt and there is still one bird gobbling over on the next ridge. Photo courtesy of Garry Mason Morgan Mason is pictured here with her first gobbler ever, as she thanks her dad - Michael Mason, for taking time to take her hunting. Michael believes that children are our most important natural resource. Photo courtesy of Garry Mason
Chase Sollis, killed this huge gobbler during the 2012 Juvenile Hunt in Como, Tennessee while hunting with his proud dad, Mike Sollis. It weighed in at a whopping 22lbs., had ¾” spurs and a 9 ¼” beard. Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
Pictured here is Dalton Noles, from Buena Vista, Tennessee with his first gobbler ever. It weighed a whopping 23 lbs. and had a 10 ½ inch beard! Photo courtesy of Lankford’s Taxidermy
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
39
M.L. Chandler killed this nice gobbler on April 3rd, 2012. It is just one of Carroll County’s many big longbeards. It weighed in at 23 lbs. and had a 10 inch beard with 1 and 1/8th inch spurs. Photo courtesy of Lankford’s Taxidermy Chase Bartlett is pictured here with his first turkey harvest ever. He killed the gobbler on March 6th of this year, while hunting with his Grandfather, Roger Bartlett in Hardeman County, Tennessee. Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
Cotton Mayo, Bryson Williams, Hunter Burns, Brooke Burns and Hannah Smith are the smiling kids pictured here with their harvested ducks and a snow goose taken on Feb 14th, 2011 in Tennessee during the 2011-2012 Juvenile Waterfowl Hunt. Photo courtesy of Wilkerson’s Taxidermy
40
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
COLOR ME!
41
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
was asked by the editor of Southern Traditions Outdoors Magazine to write a tribute to my grandfather, who recently passed away, James Patrick Roberts. Some would call him “Pat”, others would call him “Mr. Pat,” but those that knew him best would call him “Daddy Pat.” When writing this memoriam, I found it difficult to separate the different aspects of his life. On one hand, he was a loving, generous, and kind family man who wanted nothing more than to spend every spare moment he had with his brood. On the other 42
hand, he was a business savvy, witty and “live each day to the fullest” type of man that success manuals should be written about. Then, there was the man leaving you at a station wagon that was buried to the chassis in mud, wondering how you were going to get out of that mess and all he would say was, “ I don’t know about you… but I’m going hunting.” Most of his hunting buddies more than likely knew him as an early riser, the man that was mad because you weren’t dressed on time, the guy that had already scouted and put up the deer stands
and had the fields planted long before the words “rut” came into your mind. They remember the man who had everything ready to go long before you even thought about buying your license. He was the type of man that wanted to hit the ground running on everything he did, whether it be in life, business, or in his pursuit of fish and game. For the past quarter century, Daddy Pat had been living a very, very busy retirement. I am only 29 years-old, but every memory I have of my grandfather involves one of two things, family and/or
SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
hunting. As a matter of fact, I remember him and my grandmother “Twomammy” bringing bed sheets to my kindergarten class when I was four, because we needed to make a teepee for Thanksgiving. I can still remember looking up from my nap {which I was faking sleep} and seeing the silhouette of Twomammy and Daddy Pat holding bed sheets and saying, “These are for John.” Little things like that stick with you longer that you might realize. No matter what hunt they might have been planning, or what wild game feast they might have
been putting together, my grandparents always made time for the little things that meant the most to us kids. Daddy Pat also made sure that he set aside time for side adventures for just him and his wife. Countless trips to the farm, deep sea fishing trips, and RV road trips to Canada were all the normal routine in the Roberts household. I have been to their house many times to visit over the years, only to find the curtains drawn and the doors locked. A quick phone call would let me know that they were up at the farm for the week, scouting deer or turkey for the upcoming season. That was the way of life they chose to live and live it to the fullest they surely did. Even after my grandmother passed away, Daddy Pat still made time to go deep sea
fishing with two of his grandsons and go goose hunting in Canada with another in 2011. He actually went to Canada twice that year, but he went alone once, because well… he wasn’t done yet. His last weeks are the ones that I will remember the most. I had the privilege of living with Daddy Pat from the beginning of February until the day he left this world. I learned more about him in those three and a half weeks than I had in all of my 29 years. He was a man that knew what he wanted and wasn’t going to stop until he got it. That attitude permeated into all aspects of his life. If he wanted to go to the farm to check on the feeders and game cameras, then by golly, we were going. If he enjoyed the bacon I cooked him that morning,
we were going to Kroger immediately after breakfast to buy several more packages of the same brand, because that man loved his bacon. He decided that he wanted metal stencils for “Posted – NO HUNTING” signs made for the farm. Well, guess what we were doing that day? We were finding a sheet metal shop that made stencils, that’s what. Our days were filled with little details like that and I loved each one, but it was just business as usual for Daddy Pat. But, his family is what made him the most proud. I remember sitting in the kitchen watching TV and he was in the den watching the Outdoor Channel when he came into the kitchen to fill up his glass of tea. When he was about to walk through the door to go back to his turkey
shows, he looked over at me and said, “You know, when me and Ann (my grandmother) met, my dad gave me a $100 bill. I bought her a $75 dollar ring first thing. People helped us out here and there, but look where I ended up. I’m so proud of all of you. I’m proud of you, David and his bunch, Brad and his bunch, Tim and his bunch, all of y’all.” He stopped there for a moment, because he was tearing up. Then he continued, “I’m so proud of all of my family... and all of you came from me and my wife....from one good couple that loved each other.” I miss him and think about him everyday. Thanks for everything Daddy Pat.
Union City Ford
wEST TENNESSEE’S 4X4 HEADQUARTERS 2012 Ford F-150 SVT RAPTOR
2022 West Reelfoot Avenue - Union City, TN 38261 (731) 885-8833 www.unioncityford.com APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
43
2012
HOT TRUCK REVIEW 2012 ford EXPLORER
... really IS “BUILT FORD TOUGH”
The Explorer ditched its old truck-based architecture this year for a set of carlike credentials, and got better in nearly every way as a result. It’s a convincing transformation. The Explorer’s V-6, outmatches its old V-8, and for 2012, there’s a turbocharged four-cylinder that still generates horsepower and torque to beat old Explorer V-6s into the dust, while posting EPA-estimated highway gas mileage of 28 mpg. In 2005, 28 mpg got you...a Focus. It excels at on-road handling, with quick steering and terrific ride control that’s due in equal part to an independent suspension and its still-substantial curb weight. It’s one of the safest vehicles Ford builds, with inflatable rear seat belts, rearview cameras and blind-spot detectors. The 2012 Explorer also entices buyers with MyFord Touch, which is the promising system that uses voice, button, or touchscreen control to govern infotainment and other vehicle functions. In truth, it does what the wide majority of us want to do in a crossover--it makes plenty of room for several people, or lots of gear and it does it much more efficiently than it ever did in the past, while holding on to a good bit of the mud-running bona fides that probably remained weekend ambitions for most outdoorsmen. It’s been named a North American Truck of the Year, as voted by this continent’s most respected journalists, and it’s truly a 21st century SUV. It’s more than willing to get a little dirty when you want to.
For a test drive of the new Explorer, I recommend you visit our friends at Union City Ford. They are located at 2020 West Reelfoot Ave. - Union City, Tennessee. You can call them at (731) 885-8833 or visit their informative website at www.unioncityfordlm.com. -Rob Somerville.
2012
HOT TRUCK REVIEW
THE 2012 CHEVY TAHOE HYBRID The Most Fuel-Efficient Vehicle in Its Class With an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city /23 highway, the new Tahoe Hybrid offers best-in-class fuel economy, plus it has the capability you’ve come to expect from Tahoe, whether you are going to be towing. hauling, or driving six kids around. With 332 horsepower, 367 lb.—ft. of torque and up to 6,200 lbs. of towing capacity, the Tahoe Hybrid rises to every challenge. If you are navigating the neighborhood or taking it off the beaten path, you’ll be ensured the peace of mind knowing that you’ve chosen the most fuel-efficient full-size SUV out there, and it’s backed by a 100,000-mile/5-year powertrain warranty and a 100,000-mile/8-year warranty on certain hybrid components.
Visit our friends at Delta Chevrolet. They are located at 125 Highway 51 Bypass in Dyersburg, Tennessee. You can reach them by phone at 731-286-4114 or visit their website at www.deltaautosales.net.
44
- Rob Somerville. SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012
OuterLimit Powersports is a family technician in the area on all makes tory in parts and accessories in stock. owned and operated business, by rec- and models. OuterLimit’s service deVisit OuterLimit Powersports for reational riding enthusiasts. It is the partment has all the factory diagnos- the best prices and best service, as only multi-line dealership in Dyers- tic monitoring equipment and is your they are the only authorized warranty burg and Dyer County. Service Center, have the They feature SUZUKI, best selection of accesPOLARIS, KAWASAsories , the largest inKI, and ARCTIC CAT ventory of parts and the models, with over a $1.5 most dedicated and promillion dollar inventofessional power sports ry of SxS’s, ATV’s, and experts. They are lomotorcycle’s…both new cated at 470 Highway 51 and pre-owned and they Bypass North, in Dyersare located in a modern burg, and are open Tues17,000 sq. ft. facility. day through Friday from In 2007, OuterLimit 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Powersports underwent on Saturday from 9:00 a major transformation am to 3:00 pm. You can in ownership, propercall them at 1-731-285ty, philosophy and per2060 or view their inforsonnel. The new team mative website at www. at OuterLimit is led by outerlimitpowersports. Drew Adams, who is re- The manager of OuterLimit Powersports - Drew Adams is pictured com. garded throughout the en- here in front of the store. OuterLimit Powersports tire southeast as “the exhopes to see you all out pert” in Side by Sides, ATV’s, and direct connection to the manufactur- riding at Bikini Bottoms Off Road Motorcycles. er. Protect your investment and war- Park {just outside of Dyersburg} and OuterLimit’s Service Department ranty, by trusting only factory certi- invites everyone to attend the 2012 is the recipient of numerous nation- fied professionals. Dyer County Fair where they sponsor al service awards that are based on OuterLimit’s overwhelming suc- the OuterLimit Powersports - ATV & customer satisfaction, service ex- cess can be attributed to Christian SxS Sled Pull! cellence, commitment, quality and values, loyal customers, dedicated professionalism involving the en- and professional employees and tire OuterLimit team. Their Senior their huge selection of new and pre- Rob Somerville STO Editor Technician has over 20 years of ex- owned motorcycles, ATV’s and SxS perience and is undeniably the best as well as over $200,000 of invenAPRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS 45
Rob
All of my friends love to hunt and fish, but even more than enjoying these active sports they love to eat. Today we will look at some unique and delicious wild game recipes. Fish and game are some of the healthiest foods you can eat. They are one hundred percent pure and natural and not injected with growth promoting steroids. Wild game is high in protein and low in fats and carbohydrates. The most important factor in preparing a delicious meal of fish or game is the care you take in the field or on the water after catching or harvesting them. It is important to immediately dress and cool the fish or animal, rinse it thoroughly and immediately refrigerate or freeze it. Hope you enjoy these unique recipes. If you have a favorite of your own, you can email me at stomag1@gmail.com. Now, roll up your sleeves, pull up to the table and enjoy!
INGREDIENTS: 1 pound crappie fillets 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 & 1/2 cups celery, cut diagonally 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch strips 1/4 cup green onions, chopped 1/2 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 2 chicken bouillon cubes 1-1/2 cups water 1/4 cup soy sauce Cooking Instructions: Dissolve chicken bouillon cubes in water. Heat the oil in a heavy skillet. Cut fillets into 1/2 inch strips. SautĂŠ the fish and vegetables for 3 minutes. Add cornstarch, garlic powder, soy sauce and bouillon. Bring to a boil for 3 minutes, until thickened and hot.
INGREDIENTS: Duck breasts Hot Pan Sausage Bacon Jalapeno peppers Cajun spices Onion Italian Dressing Monterey Jack cheese Toothpicks (soak in water)
Cooking Instructions: Pound out the duck breasts with a meat cleaver. Roll the sausage into a small sized hot dog shape and place in the middle of the breasts. Add a slice of onion and a whole jalapeno and fold the breast over. Wrap bacon around breast and secure with toothpicks. Sprinkle heavily with Cajun spices and marinate in Italian dressing for 24 hours. Grill on the pit until done. Place foil over the breasts while grilling. Add cheese before removing from grill. These are great and the sausage adds flavor plus prevents the breasts from drying out.
Summary: Just writing this is making my mouth water. I am heading out back to fire up the grill. But in the meantime, here is wishing you all a great New Year and God’s blessings for you and yours. See ya,
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
46
APRIL/MAY 2012 | SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS
47
WITH RATES SO LOW NOW IS THE TIME FOR YOUR PERFECT DREAM HOME! ASK ME HOW! 48
Apply on line firstcitizens-bank.com Tammy Ladd SOUTHERN TRADITIONS OUTDOORS | APRIL/MAY 2012800-321-3176 731-287-4362