2015 NCW Hunting & Fishing Guide

2015 NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE INSIDE: • LICENSE INFO • LOCAL HUNTING STORIES • RECIPES FOR YOUR GAME MEAT & MORE!

Prepared by the advertising department.

A supplement to The Wenatchee World.

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Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS DROUGHT CONDITIONS ......................................................... 3 FISHING LICENSING INFO....................................................... 4 STEELHEAD ON THE UPPER COLUMBIA RIVER....................... 6 SPOTTING SALMON & TROUT................................................. 6 SAFE HANDLING TECHNIQUES FOR ANGLERS........................ 6 GRILLED SALMON SALAD....................................................... 7 MY FIRST ELK........................................................................ 8 WATERFOWL IN WASHINGTON............................................... 8 CONSERVATION GROUPS........................................................ 8 HOW TO TURN IN A POACHER................................................. 8 DUCK OR GOOSE JERKY....................................................... 11 MULE DEER FOUNDATION: WASHINGTON SPOTLIGHT.......... 12 GENERAL HUNTING SEASON SCHEDULE.............................. 13 HOT CHOCOLATE ................................................................. 16 THE STORY OF THE LONE SPIKE........................................... 18 SLEEPING BEAUTY............................................................... 20 GRILLED VENISON HEART ................................................... 21 MEAT PROCESSORS............................................................. 22 WHERE TO BUY MAPS.......................................................... 22 WHERE TO BUY AMMO......................................................... 22 WHERE TO SHOOT................................................................ 22 ENCOUNTERS OF THE FUR KIND.......................................... 22

“A history book with a beginning some two hundred million years ago.”

Charlie Mason and his wife Ruth take you on a tour of the fascinating geological marvels of our region. This revised edition features GPS locations, a field map and updated information from the original edition. (168 pages, paperback, signed by the author) $29.95 Available at the Wenatchee World office or order online at shop.wenatcheeworld.com

The Geological History of the Wenatchee Valley & Adjacent Vicinity

By Charlie Mason

wenatcheeworld.com

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

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DROUGHT CONDITIONS HAVE HARMED FISH AND DISRUPTED LOCAL FISHERIES Editorial provided by Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board.

A warm winter with near record-low snowpack followed by extreme warm weather and low precipitation this spring and summer has put our salmon in a challenging position. Water temperatures in the rivers have been exceeding the upper limit of tolerance for trout, sockeye, steelhead, and Chinook.

Wenatchee River near Monitor, late August 2015 The warm winter didn’t allow for snowpack accumulation which means very little water was available to replenish our streams and rivers throughout the summer with cooler water. The early season hot weather (June average temperatures were 10.9º F above normal in Wenatchee) caused what little snowpack we had to melt at least a month earlier than usual. The mainstem Columbia has been running about 50% lower than average in the months of June and July (Columbia River DART). According to the Department of Ecology, 43% of rivers statewide are The following graph depicts flows for the Wenatchee River this year compared to 2005 (the last very low water year) and 2014 (Cody Gillin, Trout Unlimited).

running at record-low levels. Streams across the Upper Columbia are running at record lows and many in the Okanogan have already dried up for the year.

Not only are water levels low, but the rivers are warmer than usual. In some stream and rivers temperatures have exceeded lethal temperatures, and in many areas and fish are relying on cold tributaries and refugia to survive. According to Jeremy Cram, a research scientist with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), adult fish are being found in colder tributaries they don’t normally enter.

Every year there are a certain number of adult spring Chinook salmon and steelhead that stray from their normal routes, but this year they are entering these cooler streams in higher than normal numbers. What’s even more out of the ordinary is that sockeye, which normally stray at lower rates than other salmon, have been identified in colder tributaries than they are usually found in. Additionally, there is a higher than normal number of spring and summer Chinook salmon and steelhead that should have been heading to the Yakima basin but instead are overshooting and have been found upstream of Tumwater Dam and entered Upper Wenatchee tributaries. Not only are fish migrating to cooler areas, but they are also arriving earlier. Usually the peak sockeye run above Priest Rapids dam is July 4th but this year the peak hit about two weeks earlier. Even with the earlier run, fish were unable to avoid the hot weather this year.

The combination of low water levels and higher than normal temperatures has been stressing our fish and makes them more susceptible to disease and predation. Mortality has been documented in the lower Columbia and Snake Rivers and earlier this year, a large fish kill occurred in the Okanogan River. Fish biologists were finding hundreds of dead salmon, sturgeon, and, steelhead. The most likely cause of death has been determined to be Columnaris, a bacteria that fish are more susceptible to during warmer water conditions (July 10, 2015 http://www. cbbulletin.com/434489.aspx). Estimates show that over half of the Sockeye died before reaching their spawning grounds.

Additionally, only about half of the expected Okanogan-bound salmon made it past Wells Dam (based on counts at Bonneville and Wells). Despite a large run of roughly half a million Okanogan sockeye

at the mouth of the Columbia River, which should have returned at least 100,000 fish to the spawning grounds, only about 10-30,000 fish are expected to actually survive that far.

Spring Chinook salmon have returned to our local rivers and are currently spawning in the upper reaches, but the warmer conditions may have led to high pre-spawn mortality. Steelhead have started to migrate up the Wenatchee and other upper Columbia River Tributaries and may encounter even more tough conditions this fall and winter due to low flows in the rivers. These thermal barriers are normal in the Okanogan, but this is the first time, we have seen this occur in the Wenatchee said Casey Baldwin, Senior Research Scientist with the Confederated Tribes of the Colville. Upstream migration in these hot water temperatures is akin to a human running a marathon in temperatures over 100˚F. Large losses of this run year are expected for both listed species.

Angling and handling of ESA listed and/or wild (Continued on Page 4)

Bedrock emerging on the Wenatchee River between Goodwin Road and Aplets Way, also known as “Snowblind” by local recreationalists.

Sockeye in the Okanogan, photo by Chris Fisher, Colville Tribes

UPPER COLUMBIA SALMON RECOVERY BOARD

www.UCSRB.org info@ucsrb.org

11 Spokane St., Suite 101, Wenatchee • 509-662-4707

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HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

(Continued from Page 3) salmon at these temperatures further reduces survival after release. Jason Lundgren from the Cascade Columbia Fisheries Enhancement Group (CCFEG) has developed a Salmon ID card helping anglers identify fish species and to guide them on safe handling methods (see card below). State fishery managers from WDFW, took steps beginning in July to protect fish that were affected by drought conditions by restricting some fishing opportunities. Additionally, the department had to release some hatchery fish early and transport salmon and steelhead that were unable to make it upstream to spawning grounds. As stated in a WDFW news release in July, the primary species affected by the fishing closure included Sockeye and spring and summer Chinook salmon and bull, rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Rivers in the upper Columbia River basin included in the fishing closure:

fish. These small dams are commonly built to create swimming or splashing spots in popular recreation areas across the region. Most years they are a nuisance for fish, but this year they present such a big problem that volunteers and wildlife officers are on the lookout for dams and dam-builders. On September 10, 2015 staff from CCFEG, Cascadia Conservation District (CCD), and WDFW spent the day removing over 40 small dams from Peshastin Creek, Nason Creek and Icicle Creek. “The majority of the dams were in Peshastin Creek near Valley High” said Jason Lundgren with CCFEG. Lundgren said they identified spring Chinook spawning in the area where they were working. Most locals who create the dams are often surprised to hear the dams are dangerous for fish and they don’t realize it could be a barrier for fish trying to swim upstream to spawn.

• Wenatchee River (Chelan Co.) from the mouth to the Icicle River Road Bridge - current and scheduled salmon seasons closed until further notice.

• Icicle River (Chelan Co.) from the mouth to 500 feet downstream of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Barrier Dam - current salmon seasons closed until further notice.

• Lake Wenatchee (Chelan Co.) – opened late and closed early.

• Okanogan River from the Hwy 97 bridge upstream to Zosel Dam- current salmon seasons closed until further notice.

On September 10, 2015 staff from CCFEG, Cascadia Conservation District (CCD), and WDFW spent the day removing over 40 small dams from Peshastin Creek, Nason Creek and Icicle Creek.

• Similkameen River from the mouth upstream to Enloe Dam - closed until further notice.

On a positive note, salmon recovery organizations in the region are focusing on keeping more water in the rivers and working to create additional habitat for fish to take refuge thereby mitigating some of the negative impacts of these low-water years.

For example, Trout Unlimited’s- Washington Water Project (TU-WWP) Pioneer Pump Exchange Project, completed in 2013, relocated the point of diversion on the Wenatchee River for the Pioneer Water Users Association’s irrigation canal from near Monitor to the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers. The project also changed the diversion from a continual flow gravity-fed system, to a closed system on-demand pump station. According to Dan Jaspers of Trout Unlimited, the upgrades from this single project along the Wenatchee have allowed stream flow savings of approximately 35 cfs in the river. TU-WWP is the primary entity doing instream flow improvement work in the Upper Columbia. Competing demands on water resources require large scale cooperative solutions now to protect the resource for future generations. TU-WWP is also currently working with the Jones Shotwell Ditch Company, which is the next largest irrigation purveyor upstream of the Pioneer, to install a similar system which will compound the instream flow benefits of the Pioneer Project in the lower Wenatchee River.

Another effort to reduce water temperatures was

• Methow River – closed from 2 pm to midnight until Sept 16th.

Check the fishing hotline at 360-902-2500 or the webpage for current fishing closure information: http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/ Closing these fisheries due to low water may have had a significant impact to the local economies in the upper Columbia region. As presented in the table below, WDFW estimated that one angler spends $59 on average per trip on restaurants, hotels, and other services. In 2014, there were over 30,000 angler trips for Chinook and sockeye salmon alone during that The following table depicts the 2014 fisheries impact to the local Upper Columbia economy (WDFW).

$59

31,528

$1.75

Average Spent per Angler Trip

Angler Trips in 2014

Millions in Local Economic Activity

year and that added approximately $1.75 million dollars infused into the local economy.

Anglers were asked to assist by limiting fishing to the morning hours even in streams that were not officially closed to reduce stress on fish, immediately return fish to be released back to the water, and land fish quickly. The Department is also responding to cases in which salmon migrating upstream have been stranded because of river conditions, Teresa Scott from WDFW said. Scott urged the public to report sightings stranded fish, or other wildlife distressed by drought, by visiting the department’s website at http:// wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/drought/. She also asked people to refrain from building recreational rock dams in streams that create barriers for migrating fish. With water levels in creeks and streams at record lows, rocks dams don’t have to be very big to block

completed by local landowners, Icicle River Middle School (IRMS), and Cascadia Conservation District last year who joined forces for a riparian restoration project in Leavenworth. A riparian area is the vegetated area along or around a body of water, such as a river, lake, or stream that helps to shade and cool water temperatures. A willing landowner worked with Cascadia to devise a management plan for the riparian area and adjacent hillside on their property along Chumstick Creek. These types of projects combined with similar water conservation projects being completed other local organizations, are especially significant in these low-flow years when every drop counts.

It’s too early to make predictions on the long-term effects of this situation on salmon but it certainly is a daunting story and the issues will only continue in the coming months as more fish move upstream and flows remain low. The impacts of low adult escapements and poor spawning and rearing conditions will affect generations of all salmon and trout species for up to five or more generations.

Check the fishing hotline at 360-902-2500 or the webpage: http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/ Information contacts: Jeff Korth, Region 2 Fish Program Manager, (509) 754-4624, Ryan Fortier, District 6 Fish Biologist, (509) 997-0316, Travis Maitland, District 7 Fish Biologist, (509) 665-3337.

Aerial Photos in this article are courtesy of LightHawk. Lighthawk is an organization who donates flights to those working on the ground to partner in conservation.

On Tuesday, August 18, 2015, staff from the Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board, www.ucsrb.org took two flights with Lane Gormley, a volunteer pilot for LightHawk. The first flight was dedicated to taking aerial photography of the low water in the Wenatchee River. The flow that day at Monitor was 380cfs, one third the average flow for this date and the lowest on record for the entire 52 years of monitoring. The second flight brought a member of Senator Patty Murray’s staff on the same flight path to witness firsthand the low water conditions and see the effects of the recent Sleepy Hollow fire.

Contributing writers; Jeff Kortth, WDFW and Greer Maier, UCSRB

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HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

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HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

STEELHEAD ON THE UPPER COLUMBIA RIVER

By Shane Magnuson Upper Columbia Guide Service Pulling on waders over layers of wool and high performance apparel at 5am, it’s just another day for us anglers in November. When the bobber goes down at sunrise on the pristine waters of the Wenatchee River, now that is steelhead fishing! We know we are not alone in our pursuit, and it’s something different that drives each of us. For me, it’s the combination of senses and steelhead fishing is full of subtleties that speak to those senses.

Visually, there is something about squinting to see that little bobber in soft light (don’t miss it!) that heightens the feeling in your fingers when he takes it. Setting the hook on an 8 pound steelhead off light tackle in a long deep slot, well, that is what warms you up. The scenic float, abundant with wildlife sounds and sights brings the moment to life months and years later. It’s no stretch to say that steelhead fishing is an experience that is unique to our area and there are many people that could not relate.

I caught my first steelhead on the banks of the Wenatchee River at age seven and never stopped. In fact, the feeling I had encouraged me to share it with anyone who wanted that same reward. Although, my wife likes to remind me of the first few fishing dates we had, with zero success, and I like to remind her that I was not focused on fishing. Focus is important.

With every reward, there is a challenge that presents itself first. In steelheading, the challenge lies in the water. Finding the perfect piece of water is the start and the Wenatchee River offers many opportunities. Look for those boulders that create a soft ripple, marking a deep hole, avoiding rapids and swift water.

Floating from wilderness surrounded banks to sage covered hills in mere miles is a treat. Enjoy the closeness with nature when floating the Wenatchee,

my line is what keeps me coming back for more.

This year’s early predictions for upper Columbia River steelhead are at 13,000 and that will likely rise.

As usual, the ratio of native to hatchery fish is close to 50/50. This makes for a lot of action in a day on the water. It’s a great year to explore, with both water and tackle. For the sake of fun, we stay light on gear and offer the fish a simple and subtle presentation. I lean toward medium light spinning rods, 9 ½ foot. 1/16 and 1/8 jigs are favorites season after season, find your favorite colors that work for you. I look forward to seeing you on the water, with a monster on the end of the line.

Shane Magnuson

the lack of production and arrogance. Letting yourself dissolve into the moment is what this fishing is all about. Taking in the smell of coffee mixed with pine and (if you’re lucky) fish. We have a river that is home to thousands of fish in the winter, discreet steelhead that surface acrobatically and enthusiastically. I would say that the experience of a fish like that on the end of

Upper-Columbia Salmon & Trout Spawning Colors

CHINOOK SALMON Spotting Over Entire Tail

Dark Irregular Spots

SOCKEYE SALMON

Greenish Blue Head

For Fishing Rules, Regulations and Season information pick up the Washington Sport Fishing Rules Pamphlet or go to: http//:wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations

Safe Fish Handling Techniques for Anglers - Know what species are present in the waters you are fishing as well as the regulations for that area.

- Use as few hooks as possible, barbless are less harmful. Because of high blood pressure a fish hooked in the tongue or gill is a dead fish.

- Use a Wet knotless or rubber net to minimize stress on the fish.

Black Gums

- Handle the fish gently with both hands. The grip on the left will damage the fish’s vital organs.

Avg. Size: 10-15 lbs.

STEELHEAD TROUT

Avg. Size: 8-11 lbs.

BULL TROUT No Spots On Dorsal Fin

Avg. Size: 12-20 inches

WA State Record: 68 lbs.

Red Lateral Band

WA State Record: 35 lbs.

Pale Yellow, Orange, & Red Spots

WA State Record: 22.5 lbs.

Avg. Size: 5-8 lbs.

COHO SALMON Spotting only on upper lobe of tail

Avg. Size: 6-12 lbs

CUTTHROAT TROUT

WA State Record: 10.6 lbs.

Whitish Gums In Black Mouth

WA State Record: 25 lbs.

- Fish not allowed for retention cannot be removed from the water.

- Never “throw” a fish back into the water, handle it carefully and give it time to recover. If you are intending to release the fish do not land/beach it.

Red Slash Under Jaw

Cascade Columbia Fisheries Enhancement Group

Spots More Numerous On The Back Half Of Body

Avg. Size: 8-12 inches

- Handle the fish with wet bare hands to protect the fish’s mucous. Try to remove the hook while the fish is in the water.

WA State Record: 4.7 lbs.

PO Box 3162, Wenatchee, WA 98807 509.888.7268 www.ccfeg.org

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

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811 South Wenatchee Ave. You can make this salmon salad with flaked meat from any part of the salmon, including leftovers.You can also make it from any species of salmon or trout; this is an especially good recipe for lesser fish such as chum salmon. Once you make this recipe, it will keep in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.To get 1 pound of picked salmon meat, you will need the bones from 1 big king salmon of about 15 to 20 pounds, or an equivalent in smaller salmon. You can also bulk it up by adding the bellies and the collars to the mix.

Serves 4 to 6. • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 15 minutes • 1 pound picked salmon or • 1/4 cup chopped parsley trout meat (see below) or cilantro • 3 to 5 tablespoons • 1 large garlic clove, minced mayonnaise • Hot sauce to taste • 1 tablespoon mustard • Salt and pepper • 1 tablespoon capers • 1/4-1/3 cup chopped red onion 1. If you are not using leftover salmon, start by grilling the bits you intend to use. Get your grill hot and make sure the grates are clean. Coat the bones and bellies in a little vegetable oil and salt them well. Once the grill is hot, grill the salmon for about 5 to 10 minutes per side. You want a little charring going on.

Set the salmon on a baking sheet to cool.

2. Once the meat is cool enough to handle, strip all the meat off the bones.

One tip to remember when doing this is that the bones all point in the same direction, so you can often get big boneless pieces off in one swipe. Set the meat into a large bowl. When you are done, pick through it and check for any stray bones or globs of fat.

3. Add all the other ingredients and mix well. Adjust salt and hot sauce to taste and serve either at room temperature or chilled.

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Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

MY FIRST ELK

By James Bowen Wenatchee Still weak from a bad cold that kept me in bed all day the day before, I was less than enthusiastic to go hunting when the alarm sounded at 4:30am. My wife, Nissa, was pumped however and ready to head, urging me to get a move on. I moved around the dark house like a zombie, internally debating whether or not to go. Not having the energy for walking and barely enough to even drive we concocted a plan of me dropping off my love at the head of a distant canyon and me picking her up a mile or two down the ridgeline.

Ambling along the dusty road in the pre-dawn the day was cold and dreary. A sliver of bright sunlight broke across the distant ridge and brought a ray of hope to the day.

Dropping her off at the designated spot we said our goodbyes and I put the old Toyota in gear and kept up the rock-strewn road to the top of the ridge. Banking left I turned up the heater a bit more and ambled slowly along the bumpy trail, still not feeling great and looking forward to parking and snoozing a little in the warm cab. This was not to be however…

Finally reaching the outcropping that was my destination I applied the parking brake and began surveying the head of the draw we call Snake Camp for game. Surprised as I scanned left, I was delighted to see a herd of 20 elk standing in an opening at the same elevation as our truck. Grabbing my binoculars, truck still running, I audited the small herd, transfixed by the four big 5 & 6 point Bulls in the herd.

My mind was trying to tell me something as I scanned through all the cows, not really thinking of seeing a spike. Then, suddenly, one of the “cows” had antlers and my brain finally got my attention!! Watching the young bull just as he turned his head, I realized he was a perfect spike by spike! Washington State general Elk season is spike-bull only so there he was, the bull I had been hunting for all these years. Tossing my binocs back in the truck I grabbed my rifle and got on the bull again, looking at my shooting options, worried he would get away. I had to wait 20 seconds (which felt like an hour) as he mulled around near the front of the herd, a big cow blocking most of his body with hers. Then they started to act nervous, since here I was, in the open, running truck, staring at them less than 100 yards away.

Just as they were about to break and start heading over the top of the draw, the spike took a half step ahead of the cow. Not waiting for a better shot my rifle jumped as the bullet headed toward the bull, the sudden report causing the whole hillside to explode with hooves and tan hides as they broke for the ridge and out of my site on the other side.

Knowing they would cross the same rode I had just

driven down I abandoned my truck and ran around the corner and back up the road searching for the elk, surprised that they had all disappeared. With a very steep canyon to my left and the ridge to my right that ran all the way back up the canyon I wasn’t sure where they had gone. Did they pop back over to the head of Snake Camp or down to the bottom of the steep valley to my port side? Not sure, I ran up the road to try to find them, hoping my spike might be hit and bringing up the rear providing me an finishing shot.

Suddenly there he is, bedded downhill to my left, below the road about 50 feet, poised and ready to explode out of his bed.

We spot each other at the same time and he launches like a pheasant pointed by a German Shorthair, the 50 degree slope aiding him in his rapid escape. Growing up hunting birds I was ready and like a pro I snapped my rifle to my shoulder, found him in the scope, and dropped him with a single shot at the base of his neck, dropping him instantly as his momentum and gravity took hold. I knew he was dead but he was far from finished getting away from me.

The body of the dead bull was rolling….and rolling….over and over, in slow motion. Once, twice, three times… Then my salvation, a small sage brush on a rocky point and he was headed right toward it.

As he rolled upon the brush, he finally stopped his death-roll, saving me another couple hundred feet of hauling him back to the road. If he hadn’t stopped he would have hit the 60-degree slope and likely gone all the way to the bottom. This must be what sheep/goat hunters go through when they drop their animal on the steep rocky places those critters call home.

Slipping and sliding down the loose shale and dirt hillside I confirmed the bull was done. After taking a picture of myself and my bull using a rockpile I setup to hold my camera I realized how much work I had ahead of me. After gutting him I hiked back up and got my truck to park it above my elk and wait for help to come. Calling the family with the radio I told them the good news and got them headed my way. With nothing left to do I waited in Tonka (our yellow Toyota 4x4).

Being a pretty remote road I was somewhat annoyed to see another truck coming my way, meaning I’d have to move since the jeep trail wasn’t wide enough to allow 2 vehicles side-by-side. The truck eventually stopped in front of me and they wanted to talk, so I approached to share my good news. The 70+ year old gentlemen in the truck were tickled about my success and wanted to help me get it up the hill. Politely denying their offer, I told them I had help coming but appreciated the offer. Insistant, they queried me about if I had a block and tackle. Not knowing what that was, confirming I didn’t have one, I told them no. They asked if I had any rope. Reflecting on the 200 feet or so I kept stashed in the back I said yes, and they instructed me to get it.

Now here is where age and wisdom always beats youth and vigor as they told me the plan. I turned my truck around, tied one end of the rope to their truck, looped the rope around the ball on my trailer hitch, then slid back down to my bull and tied the other end onto his neck. Watching in awe, they slowly backed their truck away from my truck, the rope sliding

around my ball. My bull magically started moving up the steep slope toward the road! Transfixed I stood to the side, worried the rope might break, joyous as my prize moved closer and closer to the road, his limp body slithering over the rocks and sage as the gap closed.

It worked better than I could have dreamed and in less than a minute my bull was lying behind my truck on the road! With their help I was able to drop my tailgate and get him in the back of my truck in one piece.

It was quite humorous when I finally met up with Nissa, my in-laws and our friend Don Carr as they came driving up to help us with this animal, since I was driving down with a huge grin on my face.

Amazed I showed them the load in the bed of Tonka and told them the story. With much relief and High5’s we headed down the mountain to get him skinned back at their house.

A hearty thanks to the two nice gentlemen from Ellensburg who helped me get him up to the road and into my truck. I just wish I had a couple beers to offer them for their help, something I’ll never forget and hope to pay forward to you, my dear reader or anyone I can help with this knowledge.

James Bowen

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

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HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

WATERFOWL IN WASHINGTON

By Jordan Osborn Upper Columbia Guide Service It’s that time of year again. The time of year when leaves start changing color and the crisp air reminds us we are part of North Central Washington. This is when fall Walleye fishing is on fire, anglers are traveling the stretch of the Columbia to chase big fall Chinook. Doves are flying around the Basin and archery hunters everywhere are after bucks and bulls.

Amidst the entire outdoor buzz, there is still one thing on my mind; then again, it never leaves. It has become an engrained everlasting passion (borderline obsession) of mine, and I know it is just around the corner. Waterfowl hunting.

I can always hear the whistling wings, quacks, and honks of ducks and geese. Even in the middle of summer when it is 105 degrees and we are all reeling about Summer Chinook and Sockeye fishing, the sounds and smells indicative of chasing waterfowl stick with me. I look forward to losing sleep and spending hard earned time and money every chance I get, all to be in a blind. I bet you know that feeling too; looking for those feet down, flapping wings, hovering over the decoys.

This is the time of year that a weather report of strong winds and big snowfall incoming means we hit the road. Wherever it may be, I’ll be ready for that big movement of birds around the storm. We may be in a goose field with an expertly placed bunch of full bodies, a half frozen marsh out in the Basin with a couple dozen Mallard decoys, or on the mighty Columbia River with a big spread of blocks chasing Wigeon, Redheads, and Canvasbacks. This is a passion fueled sport, and we are happy to report it is almost here.

We live for this time of year and this season that we have here in the Eastern Washington part of the Pacific Flyway. It is truly one of the most diverse areas for a Waterfowler in the country. The opportunity

for us in this region is unique; to be able to chase so many different species of ducks and geese makes it extremely special and a hidden gem to the rest of Waterfowlers nationwide. We thrive on those icy water mornings and a light flurry of snow with Wigeon, Canvasbacks, and Redheads screaming by in flocks and turning on a dime to descend on a big hook of decoys on the river. Our hearts thump at the sight of Mallards and Pintail circling and finally dropping straight down into a designed hole in the decoys that are spread on a cattail pond between marshes. For us, frosty fields with full bodies out in

am highly anticipating this season with big numbers of ducks and geese reported to return and predictions of a cold, snowy winter. This Waterfowl season is lining up to be a phenomenal year. Let’s get out there and create experiences and make lasting memories in the field.

front feel like home, looking through mesh in a layout blind watching big Honkers with feet down gliding in without hesitation.

The cat and mouse game of spreading decoys, concealing blinds and calling birds gets my blood running every time I am headed out into the field. The hard work of scouting and preparation to create the ideal scene for a bird pays off. It all comes together when birds fully commit, never realizing they have been deceived. This seemingly crazy addiction I have is simply that, an addiction. Maybe it is for you too. I

CONSERVATION GROUPS

Ducks Unlimited

Ducks.org Ducks Unlimited takes a continental, landscape approach to wetland conservation.

Since 1937, DU has conserved more than 13 million acres of waterfowl habitat across North America. While DU works in all 50 states, the organization focuses its efforts and resources on the habitats most beneficial to waterfowl.

Mule Deer Foundation Muledeer.org The conservation group that focuses on mule deer, black tail deer & habitat conservation has chapters in Moses Lake, Yakima & Winthrop.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Rmef.org The conservation group has the Colockum chapter in Wenatchee, the Columbia Basin chapter in Moses Lake, the Kittitas County chapter in Ellensburg, the Yakima chapter, and the North Cascades chapter in Omak.

Wenatchee Sportsmen’s Association Wenatcheesportsmensassociation.com Their mission statement is, “dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the wildlife and enhancement of habitat.”

TO TURN IN A POACHER

The WDFW hunter’s regulations packet suggests you call 911 to report poaching in progress, but for nonemergency violations and poaching call the WDFW at 877-933-9847 (877-WDFW-TIP).

Duck or Goose

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Jerky

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

11

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(800) 461-5539 This is a great jerky recipe, but use it as a guide, not dogma. If you want to play with flavors, go for it. Just don’t mess around with the ratios of salt, and be sure to let it marinate for at least 24 hours, and up to 3 days.

Makes about 1 1/2 pounds.

Prep Time: 24 hours or more • Cook Time: 6-8 hours • 3 pounds skinless, de-fatted duck or goose breast • 2 cups water • 2 tablespoons kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon Instacure No. 1 (optional) • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • 1 teaspoon cayenne • 1 teaspoon porcini powder (optional) • 3 tablespoons brown sugar

1. Slice the duck breasts into roughly 1/4 inch strips. Mix remaining ingredients well in a large bowl. Put the meat into the marinade and massage it all around to coat evenly. Pour everything into a seal-able plastic bag or container and set in the fridge. Let this marinate for at least 24 and up to 72 hours — the longer it is in the mix, the saltier the meat will get, but the longer it will last at room temperature. During the marinating process, massage the meat around in the bag to keep all the pieces in contact with the marinade.

2. Remove the duck from the bag and pat dry with paper towels. Either follow your dehydrator’s instructions for making jerky (I dehydrate mine at 140°F), or lay the strips on a wire rack set over a cookie sheet to catch the drippings. Set the rack in an oven set on Warm until the meat is dried out, but still pliable, about 6 to 8 hours. Store either in the fridge indefinitely, or at room temperature for up to 1 month.

This recipe makes a jerky that is dry enough to store at room temperature — although the fridge is best for really long storage — but pliable enough to keep it. This recipe will work with any skinless duck or goose breast, or with venison, elk, antelope, goat, lamb or beef.

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Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

MULE DEER FOUNDATION: WASHINGTON SPOTLIGHT Editorial Provided By the Mule Deer Foundation For a late summer evening in North Central Washington, the weather was very mild as we watched a small waft of smoke rising over a distant ridge to the west. We were in the middle of a wrap-up and strategy meeting for Mule Deer Foundation in our region, talking about the needs of our mule deer, fundraising ideas and future project possibilities, when suddenly our future was decided for us in what seemed like an apocalyptic event.

Fire has been a trending word this year in both Washington and Idaho, and the stage is set for MDF to step up to the plate in our region and make a difference like we’ve never been asked to do before.

That small column of smoke we had been watching erupted into a towering cloud rising 60,000 feet high and covering most of the western horizon. What we had witnessed was the explosion of a small blaze into what would become a more than quarter-million acre wildfire in the heart of Washington’s best mule deer region. Driving home that night, ash was still falling on the truck more than 100 miles away, and we immediately knew that a huge challenge had been set before us.

Although we know it will be incredible habitat in the next few years, it is still hard to see prime Mule Deer habitat burn.

Focusing on Restoring Habitat after Wildfires Habitat restoration due to fires is nothing new for the Mule Deer Foundation, so we know we have the proper resources and network to get the work done.

Over the last several years, close to 1 million acres of habitat have been lost to fires in Washington and Idaho, many of those in prime mule deer country. To

that end, MDF has put a major focus on raising funds and awareness to help restore much of this critical resource. Many multi-agency meetings have been held in both states to find best practices for attaining our goals and local chapters are ramping up efforts to ensure the success we need.

Okanogan, Chelan and Kittitas Counties in central and north central Washington have been our hardest hit. MDF chapters in Omak, Twisp, Ellensburg and Yakima have worked hard to dedicate volunteer hours and Chapter Reward dollars towards projects to replace bitterbrush, sagebrush and bunch grass, along with multiple other plant species. The Central Washington Chapter logged nearly 700 volunteer hours in 2014 protecting and replacing lost or damaged habitat. An aspen fencing project and two bitterbrush projects were among the events they planned and completed, getting more than 200 acres back on track. As one of Washington’s newest and most active chapters, they are setting a great example of what’s possible for a dedicated group – they were even the stars of the local parade through town last year, adorning hundreds of local youth with our M.U.L.E.Y. antlers!

The Okanogan Trails and Okanogan Valley Chapters, both in hard-hit Okanogan County, have been holding fundraisers and awareness for future habitat work that will continue for years. With over 250,000 acres of prime mule deer habitat lost to wildfires, the challenges are huge. Working closely with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) this year, we have been putting together a plan of action and are preparing to begin our planting and restoration work. Many of the migrating deer have been able to disperse, relieving some of the expected pressure on what little winter range remained. Our main focus is to re-establish and protect as much winter range as we can for the next couple of years. If pressure remains light, the recovery of our mule deer will proceed as hoped. In a few years, this area will be an incredible resource for mule deer, we just need to work hard restoring habitat to avoid too much hardship on the populations in the near future. A recent “Call for Projects” has just been issued by the local chapters and, together with state and federal agencies, we will prioritize and fund as many of these project requests as we can. The chapter members and other volunteers will also be helping with many work parties to restore habitat and infrastructure as needed.

Radio tracking collar being put on a deer for future research into Mule Deer habits and migration.

State deer biologists ready for flight and capturing of mule deer for research purposes.

(Continued on Page 14)

MULE DEER FOUNDATION “Saving Deer, One Acre at a Time”

1-888-375-3337 Find out more www.muledeer.org Follow MDF on:

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

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GENERAL HUNTING SEASON SCHEDULE Note: *Consult the Official 2015 Game Hunting Pamphlets for specific information.

Mourning Dove........................... Sept. 1 – Oct. 30 Forest Grouse............................. Sept. 1 – Dec. 31 Quail........................................... Oct. 3 – Jan. 18 Pheasant.................................... Oct. 24 – Jan. 18 Chuckar...................................... Oct. 3 – Jan. 18 Duck & Coot............................... Oct. 17 – 21, ................................................... Oct. 24 – Jan. 31 Geese: .VARIOUS START & END DATES ................................................... Oct. 17 – 29 ................................................... Nov. 7 – Jan. 31 Crow........................................... Sept. 1 – Dec. 31 Turkey......................................... Early: ................................................... Sept. 19 – Oct. 16 ................................................... Late Fall ................................................... Nov. 20 – Dec. 15 Fox.............................................. Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 Raccoon..................................... Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 Coyote: All Year Bobcat........................................ Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 Cougar....................................... Sept. 1 – Dec. 31 Cottontail & Snowshoe Hare...... Sept. 1 – Mar. 15 Black Bear.................................. Aug. 1 – Nov. 15 Deer (Black Tail): ........................................ Archery: Sept. 1 – 30 ........................................ Muzzleloader: Oct. 3 – 11 ........................................ Modern Firearm: Oct. 17 – 31 Deer (White Tail): ........................................ Archery: Sept. 1 – 30 ........................................ Muzzleloader: Oct. 3 – 11 ........................................ Modern Firearm: Oct. 17 – 27 Deer (Mule) ........................................ Archery: Sept. 1 – 30 ........................................ Muzzleloader: Oct. 3 – 11 ........................................ Modern Firearm: Oct. 17 – 27 Elk: ........................................ Archery: Sept. 12 – 24 ........................................ Muzzleloader: Oct. 3 – 9 ........................................ Modern Firearm: Various Seasons; ........................................

Aug 1 – Dec. 31

REQUIRED TO HUNT: BEFORE YOU GO...

PROOF OF HUNTER EDUCATION: Any persons born after January 1, 1972 must show proof of hunter education completion when buying a Washington State hunting license.

IN ADDITION TO A LICENSE: All hunters must have any required tags, permits and stamps in addition to a valid hunting license.

VEHICLE ACCESS PASS: It comes free with the purchase of your hunting license.

3 WAYS TO BUY YOUR LICENSE VENDOR OUTLETS

INTERNET

TELEPHONE

Get your license immediately at any of our 600 license vendors. For a vendor near you, visit: wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors

Buy online 24 hours a day at: fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov

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Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

(Continued from Page 12) Chapter Funding Supports Conservation Another hot topic, and probably one of the most controversial in the West today, is the issue of wolves and the effect they are having on mule deer. Whatever perspective you may hold, it is clear that wolves are having an impact on our local wildlife populations and their habits. MDF chapters in Washington and Idaho are actively funding research projects and management costs to help us learn more and help manage all of our wildlife. In the Idaho Panhandle, $4,000 of local chapter rewards and national funds were issued to help offset direct costs of managing wolf populations, both through lethal and nonlethal means. MDF will continue to help with these opportunities and hopefully we will begin to see a turn in the current trend there. In Washington, the Spokane, Yakima and Okanogan Trails Chapters have helped fund a research study throughout northern Washington on the effect wolves may be having on coyote predation of mule deer fawns. This new study could help show us other effects the introduction and spread of wolves is having on not only mule deer but also all species in the affected regions. MDF is a strong believer in proper management of wolves and all wildlife, and we will continue to support these goals.

As a result of very dedicated chapter members and a determined national office, in the last three years MDF has put over $115,000 on the ground in Washington, and nearly $100,000 on the ground in Idaho. Also, Alaska has put almost $15,000 into black-tail research and habitat projects. With many more large and small projects on the horizon, growth and fundraising are top priorities for us in this region over the next few years.

Building our Pacific Northwest Chapters The Pacific Northwest region chapters have seen incredible growth recently and we are on track for even more. Washington currently has 10 active chapters planning fundraisers and projects, and the volunteer ranks are growing! Many chapters are seeing a rebirth of sorts, reaching out to new committee members and introducing new ideas for their chapters. With a goal of 15-18 chapters statewide, Washington is over halfway to what we hope to achieve in chapter numbers. Reaching this goal will allow us to do much more than we currently are, and have a wider reach in educating the public about important issues to wildlife. Membership numbers have surpassed 3,600 in this state, giving MDF a great representative voice. We hope to do much more in the coming years, growing our chapter

system, membership, and overall effect on wildlife statewide.

Looking Ahead The states of Idaho and Washington are undergoing other growth and improvements as well. We are actively working on forming Project Review Committees (PRCs) for both states, to help us do more with our Chapter Rewards. This process will enable chapters to pool their dollars, giving us opportunity to do larger projects on a landscape scale affecting thousands more acres than we currently can. These PRCs will include chapter representatives and key agency personnel from state, federal and private agencies. Input from private landowners will also be used in deciding what projects will give us the most effective use of chapter, state and federal dollars to be put on the ground for mule deer. Another idea that is gaining support is to begin a yearly rendezvous for chapters. This will provide a weekend of fun, camaraderie and learning for volunteers, and hopefully the opportunity to make some lasting friendships across the states. Learning that “you aren’t alone� as a chapter can have great impacts on ideas and the motivation to do more. We can always do more as a team and this weekend get-together will provide a platform for new growth for all chapters, in many ways.

Without our volunteers, MDF would not be able to accomplish the great things we do in our region and nationwide. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization and we sincerely appreciate all that you do every year. From new committee member, to chapter chair, volunteer M.U.L.E.Y. coordinator and state chair, all volunteers play an integral role in our success. As the years go by, it is important to continuously recruit new help and new ideas. Some of our veteran volunteers love what they do, but eventually would like to see new blood take over.

Whether it is fire rehabilitation, collaring deer for research, controlling invasive weeds, teaching our youth the importance of our outdoors and stewardship, helping our law enforcement, or any other of a multitude of projects, we at MDF in the Pacific Northwest Region and nationally look forward to continuing our hard work for the mule deer and black-tailed deer that we love. Thank you all for being a part of our story, and we look forward to more successes in the future!

Mule Deer Foundation volunteers work hard year around.

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

15

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Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

HOT CHOCOLATE

By James A. Bowen Wenatchee After filling my elk tag a couple days before on a damp and foggy opener, we were still sore and recovering from an opening weekend spent packing meat out of the muddy and slick Nasty Canyon (I’ll let you guess why we call it that!). Dragging our feet too long at camp, it was no surprise it was pushing noon on Monday as my wife Nissa and I left camp and trudged our way back up the trail, both of us hunting with an assortment of tags yet unnotched. With my spouse now in charge as the primary shooter leading our little expedition, I had been reassigned to camp-cook, head-tracker, game-pusher, lead-dishwasher and anything else she needed on our hunt.

Just before heading up and around the top of a small swale known to hold game, she suggested one of us should work the bottom to try to bump out anything hiding inside. Catching my cue, I stopped and rested for a moment, watching as she continued up and around the top of the draw. Stretching weary muscles as I contemplated my path for the upcoming push through the web of blow-down and thorny rosehips I reflected on our years spent together.

Hunting with my partner for nearly 20 years she had yet to get her first bull. Eager to help any way I could I prepared myself as I watched her disappear around the top.

Allowing several more minutes for her to get in position I finally plunged into the thick overgrowth with gusto. After much thrashing and intentional snapping of fallen branches I was finally able to crash my way through the dense tangle of Rosehips and blow-down, breaking free on the other side slightly bruised and a little bloody. I forcibly slowed my breathing to listen for any tell-tale sounds of bounding or snorting game spooked from their beds and hopefully the report from Nissa’s 270. Hearing nothing but the sound of the creek bubbling below I continued toward the outlook where my wife was standing watch, her arms slung low holding her rifle at the ready, disappointment reflected on her face. As I cleared the last few saplings I turned to scan the open scabland behind me to see if anything was sneaking out of the creek bottom. Shocked and amazed to see a large mahogany blob scooting up the slope opposite us, I realized my effort had paid off in an unexpected way.

More in disbelief than an attempt to state the obvious, I abruptly barked the word “BEAR!” as I dropped down on my backside and threw my rifle over a knee.

Finding the escaping mass of flesh in my scope, my sight was greeted with visions of rolls of flabby skin and auburn fur that bounced around all sides of the

bruin, a sign of a very healthy hibernator ready for a long winter nap. Without enough consideration of the 300 yard distance between us, or the fact he was running, I took a quick shot and missed. Rapidly cycling the bolt I fired again and saw as the bullet hit too far back in his rear quarter, slowing his escape but not stopping him. Watching him still nimbly negotiating the steep slope, albeit much slower, I vainly fired twice more and felt like I hit him again. Still he kept going, doing his best to outdistance the hunters that plagued him.

I refilled my magazine and got back on target, just in time to see him vanish into a small patch of cover.

Not knowing if he was fatally hit or not we waited and watched, hoping he’d come out of the back of the small draw for a chance to finish him from afar. After several minutes it was apparent he had either expired or had settled in to wait for his fate to come to him.

Unsure if any of the new holes in his hide were fatal, I cinched up my big-boy pants and set out to find out, leaving my wife to cover me from her perch.

Reaching the area where I last saw him I began searching for any signs of a hit. I had heard that bears are very tough and don’t bleed much when shot so I wasn’t overly concerned when I didn’t find any blood or hair, though I still had my doubts. I knew the bear was wounded so I continued, walking at Port-Arms, as ready for a confrontation as I could be. I eased up and over a small rise, scanning and listening for him to give away his exact location, hoping to spy him lying dead in the open so I wouldn’t have to go into the heavy cover where he was likely hiding, angrily staring at me and waiting. Not finding hide nor hair I hiked up and down the side of the finger draw searching and praying he was down for good, hoping my efforts to spook him out were unnecessary. With a gut feeling he was still alive and watching, I looked into the encompassing mass of snags and leaves with my 10-power binoculars, my hair standing up on the back

of my neck as I contemplated my next move.

In an attempt to stir the pot a little, I bent over, picked up a rock and chucked it into the canopy a short 20 steps away. When nothing happened I arched in another, then another, hoping for a reaction. A sudden buzzing against my thigh sent me five feet off the ground, no doubt subtracting several years from my life expectancy. Pulling my phone from my pocket I saw the snarky message from my distant hunting partner, telling me to “Go, go, go! Dive, dive, dive!” spurring me to get in there and claim our prize. Contemplating how many additional gray hairs would now great me when I next glanced at my reflection, I ignored her urging and sent another batch or two of shale projectiles through the air into a different section of cover. After launching just shy of a thousand or so rocks, I finally caught a slight disturbance in the brush; a small clump of young willow thrashed briefly as I heard him adjust his position. At least I think that was him, or was it simply the results of the new rockslide I had created?

I waited a few moments longer, ignoring further prompts from my wife to move faster and be more ag-

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015 gressive (I believe she assumed the animal deceased– either that or my new life insurance policy was prompting her impatience). Focusing on the area that moved I concentrated a downpour of stones on that patch in an attempt to flush my quarry. Likely confused at the sudden change of weather, the big boar decided he was tired of the heavy rain and thundered from his hidey-hole. Thankfully the bear erupted from the far side, saving me from displaying my screamingstumbling-running-away ability. My rifle instinctively came to my shoulder, crosshairs landing on his shoulder, and like a snap shot at a flushing quail I fired, drilling him just above my aiming point on his shoulder. He immediately collapsed, managing to get the last laugh as he tumbled down the steep slope into the bottom of the thickest, nastiest section of vinechoked brush he could have fallen into. Once again I was faced with the need to enter a silent and still section of bear-laced brush.

Tentatively crossing around the head of the draw, then down to the side where he had emerged I grimaced as I approached the spot; visibility could only be measured in feet as I peered inside the blackness ahead. After slowly and cautiously crawling the last couple yards into that little piece of hell, the hole as dark as midnight on an overcast night, I was still unsure whether it was over or not. With less than a fathom separating us now I cautiously scanned with my binocs, heart pounding nearly out of my chest, looking for any movement, trying to pick out any piece of his chocolate body amid a blanket of chestnut-colored foliage. Finally his lifeless form

materialized before me, sprawled out facing me, his front legs stretched out like he had just fallen from the sky and landed on his soft belly. In a final, reassuring move I stretched out with my rifle to poke him.

My excited “YAHOOO!” let Nissa know the deed was done and we had more work to do. For the first time since we started out that morning my pulse was allowed to resume its normal pace as I collapsed to rest next to our trophy, relief washing over me.

Running my hand across his head and down his back I admired the burley omnivore that lay before me, his thick coat matted with burrs and leaves, his blocky head as big as a dinner plate. Grabbing a paw I could feel his weight as I pulled his front foot forward, his pad wider than my hand, dirty claws sharp and strong as they scratched my skin in the process.

I snapped a couple pictures, regained my composure, and took a deep breath to release the energy that had been building inside of me since I first spotted the bruin over an hour earlier. Nissa eventually converged on the pit and helped take a few more shots of the six foot black bear while we gawked at his size. While we marveled at claws nearly as long as my fingers I reflected on the encounter, glad I had taken a cautious approach to his resting spot. A quick glance up from his vantage point revealed a clear and unobstructed view to where I had been standing above him for so long, triggering an involuntary shudder as I contemplated what a hand-to-hand battle with this 350 pound fighter would have been like.

Skinning him later would reveal only one of my original 4 shots had connected, wounding him in the

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

17

rear leg, missing any bone or vital organs, certainly not a fatal hit. Good thing I had my partner diligently covering me while I put my life on the line, keeping me safe from harm in case things had turned ugly.

Wait, what’s this? My smartphone buzzes in my pocket, notifying a dozen new posts from her Facebook page about the bear. Looks like I may have to find a place to hunt further from cell coverage!

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HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

THE STORY OF THE LONE SPIKE

By James A. Bowen Wenatchee Driving down the dusty road I pull my truck quietly into the parking spot. With shooting light upon me I look around, surprised to be the only one here. My family has hunted this area every elk season for the last 70+ years and we had talked earlier in the week about the special hunt and how it might move some animals off the closed unit to where we would be hunting. I expected them to be hunting the area with me but it seems they’ve decided to hunt elsewhere.

That changes my plans a bit since I now have the entire area to myself. At first I feel a sense of relief, knowing I wouldn’t have to worry about where others are hunting and trying to stay clear of their “spot”.

Then a feeling of solitude sweeps over me, a sensation I’m uncomfortable with, the knowledge of being the only one hunting there today. My emotions turn to disappointment as I realize I won’t have any human company for the day (and no other strong backs to help pack meat if I get one down) but the sun is bright and warm and I have a good hike still ahead of me.

Dispensing with those thoughts I ease up the trail hoping I’m not too late…

I hump it up the draw at a strong pace and arrive at my destination in time, my t-shirt soaked with sweat.

Dropping my pack to the ground, I feel more alive than I have in months as the crisp morning air fills my lungs in quick, easy breaths. Enjoying the relief from the packs’ burden and the bite of the fall weather I am suddenly snapped out of my reverie and thrust back into the moment as the din of gunfire hits me from the ridge across from my resting point. Turning my focus toward the source of the shots my heart starts to race as I spot elk descending the tops of the rocky slopes a half mile away and traveling in my direction. Uncertain if I should move further up the draw or go back down to my normal location I am suddenly forced to crouch and take a seat as the lead cow crests the closest ridge across from me less than a few football fields away and closing quickly on my location.

At first I see only a few, then 50 and now hundreds of elk are bustling across the hillside opposite from me single file and sky-lined just over 400 yards away (440 yds according to the range finder).

Farther than I’d like to shoot but if one stops and present me the opportunity I will try to shoot in order to get meat for the freezer. Minutes pass as the elk keep walking toward me from the far distance, no longer pushed by the hunters on the back side of the hill but still not slowing much. Pretty soon it’s painfully obvious as I scan them with my binos that they are all cows with a few big bulls mixed in, yet I still hold on to the fading hope that suddenly there will be a legal bull that appears as if by magic. My heart begins to slow to its normal rhythm as hope slowly ebbs away as I glass each cow over and over for the 1 1/2 year old bull I know should be mixed in there somewhere. With the new “True-Spike” rule in effect this season I figured this year was going to be a wash, yet here I was trying just the same.

My efforts are soon rewarded and hope springs alive once again as I notice another group of about 30 rounding the knob lower than the first ones, only 250 yards away and headed the same direction. Again I scan for those tell-tale 1x1 antlers and see only cows and a big bull. Once again hope begins to fade once again.

I catch new movement as a third group comes around the bend, this time closer still to my blind.

Watching them walk toward me I’m caught up in the moment as elk sounds fill the calm fall air: the mewing of the calves, the chirps of the cows, and the half bugles of the bulls. The sun is warm, the sky calm, clear and blue. As I enjoy the rays from our closest star I start to console myself that even with no spike to harvest, at least I am witness to a great show this morning and will have a good story to tell the rest of my family and friends around the burn barrel tonight.

Suddenly he is there, just over 200 yards away and closing, the 4th from the last elk in the last group. He’s one of the tallest spikes I’ve ever seen and I’m almost euphoric with excitement as I check him again and again to be sure he’s legal.

Finding no extra points on his rack that would preclude him from my attempts to harvest him I stare almost in shock. It was then that my brain shared the news with my heart and they both overindulged on adrenaline, sending my pulse to the moon. “Great.” I think as my crosshairs start to dance wildly all over the target.

Forcing myself to take a deep breath I regain my composure and the wires settle down for the task at hand. He’s approaching closer now, 175 yards away, 150..., 140.... he’s plenty close enough to shoot but still I hold. Although he’s well within range of my 7mm Remington Mag handloads, he’s quartering almost straight downhill right toward me, covering his vitals with his front right shoulder. He’s also walking with no intention on stopping it seems. I’ve shot moving game before but not one walking toward me and knowing it will sacrifice some meat I’m not eager to shoot...yet.

Now there are other considerations to take, straining my patience for a better shot angle. The lead cow that brought all these animals my direction is still closing the gap between us. She is now below me less than 50 yards away and staring at me, my face highlighted by the sun’s rays I was enjoying just a few moments ago. My thoughts imagine her busting me and starting a stampede of Wapati that would make a Texan fear for his life. Knowing my time was short (there are other hunters within 600 yards that could start volleying rounds at any time as well) I peered through the scope at my quarry and started to take the slack out of the trigger, putting all my faith in the 160 grain bonded-core Accubond I’m loaded with....

BOOM! In slow motion I see he’s hit and hit hard. Quickly I reload while watching him take his last steps. Dropping his head, arching his back and kicking out his rear legs I know he’s hit in the heart from the signs. He hops once like a wild horse being broke by a greenhorn cowboy, then hops again. Now he’s down, rolling over once, then twice, then he finally rolls to a stop....

The elk he’s with scatter about 30 yards back the way they came, confused and staring at their fallen comrade unsure what to do next. The cows below me turn and start running off to my right headed toward the safety of the mountains in the distance. The spike is still, no movement at all, the calm and silence returning to the draw where this scene has played out.

I quietly remain in my spot, watching the dead spike to be sure he’s down, watching the other elk as they try to comprehend what has just occurred, finally making up their minds and bolting around him to join up with the others. With the realization of what has just happened slowly sinking into my consciousness I slowly rise and say a quiet “Thank You” to Nature and the Elk Spirits for giving me this gift.

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

3013 GS Center Road, Wenatchee 509.663.0075 www.DogHouse-MotorSports.com

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Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

SLEEPING BEAUTY

By James A. Bowen Wenatchee Life always throws you a curve when it comes to planning for fun activities like hunting. That was my main thought as I bounced and bumped my way up the rutted dirt road to my deer hunting grounds, causing undue wear and tear to my Silverado. Here it was Sunday evening, less than a week until the opening day for deer season and my only window of opportunity for deer scouting was quickly closing as the sun slipped further behind the western horizon.

Reaching the high vantage point and glassing quickly in areas I’ve seen animals in the past the only things I see are buck brush, bitterbrush and occasional small pines that cover the landscape in every direction. Almost out of light I finally spy the gray coat of a mule deer a half mile away feeding in the growing darkness. With night falling I console myself that at least I have spotted a deer, my instincts telling me it was a buck, giving me some hope as I drive back down the mountain.

Less than a week later finds me and my oldest daughter Jayme back in the same area, the light of day breaking behind us as we climb to the bottom of one draw and up to the finger ridge between two big canyons. The second valley is where I’d seen the deer previously so it was there that we were hunting. Thirty minutes after sunrise I pick up the white face of a deer catching the first rays of the morning light. Even 300 yards away I can tell it’s a buck and my pulse quickens as I start to decipher the rack, counting points to check if he’s legal to take.

Assessing it for the required three points on one side as required by our game regulations I’m not certain if it’s legal. Deciding it is too small to consider I pass my binoculars to Jayme to view of the buck, explaining the requirements and how to count the antler points.

After a few minutes she finds the deer in the heavy cover and states that she believes it to be legal.

“Daddy, I am 90% sure it’s a legal buck!” she exclaims with excitement. Choosing to teach her about hunting ethically I tell her you must be 100% sure before you pull the trigger; otherwise you have to pass and let the animal go.

After she hands me back the optics I watch the rotund buck move around on his perch for several minutes, his bedroom resting on the edge of an old logging road that is mostly overgrown, providing good cover and easy walking on the steep hillside he’s feeding on. He moves around eating and chewing his cud, not a care in the world except packing on enough extra weight to make it through the winter. Watching him closely now I am a little surprised when he turns his head in just the right way as I get a good look at

his rack. He’s a shooter after all, with 3 good points on his right antler, and he looks a little taller and heavier than I initially thought.

“You’re right Jayme, he’s legal. But I still think we should hold out for a bigger buck. It’s opening morning and this is the first deer we’ve seen today. Maybe his big brother or dad will come out and we can tag him instead.” I tell her with as much fatherly compassion and understanding as I can convey to calm her excitement (and my own). “But why Daddy? Why not just shoot this one and be done?” she insists. Mulling it over in my head I struggle with my options, trying to please my daughter and make a memory with her verses holding out for a larger trophy. We banter back and forth for a while and when I next look at the buck he’s bedded down with no chance for a shot.

“Well Jayme we’ll just have to wait a bit. I can’t shoot him now; he’s bedded in some heavy cover facing toward us. Let’s just sit and see what happens, I don’t think he’s going anywhere.” I console her. Then the rain starts….

Black clouds roll over us dumping enough cold rain I can’t even see the muley through my binoculars due to the downpour. I look over at my small 10-year old next to me, dressed in blue jeans and cowboy boots and she’s shivering a bit as her clothes absorb raindrops like a sponge. Instinctively I huddle around her, protecting her from the bulk of the wind and rain, trying my best to keep her dry so we don’t have to go back to the truck. She nuzzles up to me as I pull her close and wrap my coat around her as we wait for the rain to abate and the sun to come back out. After halfan-hour the sun shines on us again as the rain stops.

Releasing my daughter and shaking off any remaining rain drops I search for the buck and find he’s still there, wet and soggy as we are, looking a bit disgusted about being soaked by the chilly fall storm. Still determined to hold out we sit, eat, and talk about what hunting means to us both. An hour passes and there is no change, our clothes are drying and the sun feels good on our skin. Movement up the valley catches my eye as I spot three more deer coming toward the buck.

A doe with two smaller bucks following her, they make their way along the hillside a couple hundred yards below our prey but they don’t notice each other and they never close the distance.

Another hour passes as we watch Sleeping Beauty rise from his bed to nibble on grass and leaves then reposition his napping location a few yards away. By this time it’s pushing noon and my resolve is starting to slide. We keep watching him move around and Jayme is pushing for me to take him. Finally I cave in to her demands, rationalizing that the memory with my daughter far outweighs any benefit of waiting for a larger buck.

I begin the process of setting up my pack as a rest and get ready for a shot. He’s so unaware of our presence I have time to tell my oldest to get behind me and plug her ears. I even take the time to put in earplugs as I get ready to shoot.

The buck seems to have a sixth-sense however, offering me no shot. He’s feeding up the hill facing away from me. I back down from ready and tell Jayme and we wait for 10 minutes as he moves slowly in his small circle of cover, bedding once again. We repeat this process every time he gets up, plugging our ears, lining up to shoot and watch him walk behind small pines to feed. Or he beds behind cover. Or he is facing toward or away from me not giving a good shot angle, driving me crazy to not have a clear shot.

By 12:30pm I’ve had enough. I don’t want to wait

James Bowen’s daughter Jayme any longer and Jayme is about ready to shoot the deer herself if I don’t. Finally I tell her I’m going to shoot him in his bed. I line up for the shot and take note of the brush and small pine covering part of his body.

They look close enough to him that any bullet deflection should be minimal, references to articles I’ve read on the topic saying that the further the brush is from the target, the more bullet deflection that will occur.

Believing it a minimal risk I take my best shot, the recoil of the gun catching me off guard as it should after squeezing the trigger slowly and steadily. The report of impact reaches my ears through the earplugs and my memory flashes the last image I had before the rifle jumped, the shot looked, sounded and felt good.

After the shot I get back on target and see little movement. Then a small flash of antler and some moving brush as the buck wiggles in his bed. Watching for him to get up, I instruct my daughter to make some noise, wave her arms and move up and down the ridge behind me to try to startle the deer in case he’s hiding in the brush and not hurt. Seeing him again struggle and thrash a little then stillness for a few minutes I decide that he’s hit hard and not going anywhere. I stay on him a little longer, his body now completely obscured by the brush around him, but he’s still now and there is no sign of him trying to escape.

Marking the few landmarks, a lone burnt trunk of a fifty foot evergreen, a bleached out log above him, his bed lies about 100 yards below a distant road. We pack up and hike back to the truck, knowing it would be easier to take him out that way. After driving 20 minutes around the huge canyons and up the other road we park above him and work our way down through fallen timber and thick buck-brush to where we last saw him. Moving slowly, with my rifle ready just in case I need to take a follow-up-shot, we ease down the slope looking for him. There is the tall burnt tree, there is the white log, and he should be right about…here.

And there he was.

Grilled Venison Heart with Peppers and Onions

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper • 3 or 4 colored bell peppers, cut into 2 to 3 pieces each • 1 large onion, cut into large wedges

1. Trim the hearts as discussed above. In a large bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, oregano, thyme and black pepper. Massage the marinade into the meat, put everything into a container that can just about hold everything and marinate for as little as 30 minutes, or as much as 2 days.

2. When you are ready to cook, get your grill hot. Coat the peppers and onion in the rest of the olive oil and salt well.

3. Grill everything on high heat. Put the hearts and veggies on the grill — skin side down for the peppers — and leave them alone with the grill cover open for 8 minutes. Flip everything and grill, uncovered, for 5 more minutes.

4. Check the peppers and onions, and when they are nicely cooked with a little char, remove and put in foil to steam. Remove any blackened skin from the peppers.

5. If the hearts are not cooked through yet, cover the grill and cook for 2 to 5 more minutes. If you are using a thermometer, you want to get the meat off the grill when it is 130°F in the center. You can also use the finger test for doneness. Tent the hearts loosely with foil and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Sprinkle with black pepper and good sea salt at the table.

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This recipe can be done with any large heart. It’s designed for deer and elk, but it will work with antelope, moose, wild boar or whatever. For non-hunters, try beef heart, veal heart or lamb hearts. You don’t have to marinate the meat, but it adds a lot of flavor, and helps keep it moist on the grill.

A tip on the peppers and onions: Cut them in large pieces so they don’t fall through your grill grates. For the onions, make sure you keep the stem end attached. And cook the skin side of the peppers first — if you get any parts that blacken, the skin peels right off. You actually want significant blackening here, so keep your grill ragingly hot.

• 1 or 2 deer hearts, or 1 elk, moose or beef heart • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 tablespoon sherry or red wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1 teaspoon salt

Serves 2 to 6, depending on the heart.

Prep Time: 30 minutes, plus up to a day for marinating Cook Time: 15 minutes

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

FIREARMS & ACCESSORIES 509.745.9567

803 E. Poplar, Waterville, WA 98858 www.OldedaysFirearms.cOm

22

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

LINKS & CUTS: MEAT PROCESSORS J & J Meats 7300 Nahahum Canyon Rd. Cashmere, WA 98815 509-860-4841 Accepts: beef, lamb, pork and game Specializes: butcher, custom meat cutting, wrapping and packaging

Wild Game Processing 4550 Navarre Coulee Rd. Chelan, WA 98816 509-687-6311 Accepts: goose, duck, cougar, bear, deer, elk, buffalo, and beef Specializes: wild game pepperoni and summer sausage

WHERE TO GET MAPS

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife-GoHunt www.apps.wdfw.wa.gov/gohunt

Department of Natural Resources Major Public Lands maps and aerial photos www.dnr.wa.gov; www.dnr.wa.gov/businesspermits/ topics/maps/pages/home.aspx

Benchmark Maps Washington Road & Recreation Atlas, Public lands maps with GMU overlays, Washington Recreation Maps Local bookstores (916) 371-3930 www.benchmarkmaps.com

US Forest Service Maps

Othello Gun Club

Many national forest trailheads in Washington now charge an access fee.

You may contact the Forest Service for access fees and maps at any of the following forest service offices: www.fs.fed.us www.fsgeodata.fs.fed.us/ rastergateway/states- regions/regions_ zoom.php?regionID=r6

Adams Co. 509-331-3158

Colville National Forest 765 S Main, Federal Bldg Colville, WA 99114 (509) 684-3711

GMU boundaries and the hunts in them www.sportsmanregs.com

MyTopo Hunt Area/GMU Maps provide 1:100,000 Bureau of Land Management base maps www.mytopo.com/

Green Trails Maps www.greentrailsmaps.com

Adams County maps www.adamswa.mapsifter.com Grant County maps www.grantwa.mapsifter.com

Metskers Maps

Cashmere Sportsman’s Association Chelan Co. 509-782-1192

Dryden Gun Club Chelan Co. 509-782-2105

1240 South Second Avenue Okanogan, WA 98840 (509) 826-3275

North Cascade’s Sportsman’s Club

Wenatchee National Forest 215 Melody Lane Wenatchee, WA 98801 (509) 664-9200

WHERE TO BUY AMMO Bi-Mart

780 Grant Road East Wenatchee, WA 98802 884-1141

Big 5 144 Easy Way Wenatchee, WA 98801 663-1332

D&L’s Army Surplus

Hooked On Toys 1444 N Wenatchee Avenue Wenatchee, WA 98801 663-0740

Sportsman’s Warehouse 611 Valley Mall Parkway East Wenatchee, WA 98802 886-7200

Stan’s Merry Mart 733 S Wenatchee Ave Wenatchee, WA 98801 662-5858

Walmart 2000 N Wenatchee Avenue Wenatchee, WA 98801 664-2448

1-800-727-4430 www.metskers.com

WHERE TO SHOOT

Bureau of Land Management

Adams Co. 509-671-3314

www.blm.gov/or

Adams Co. 509-659-0233

Okanogan National Forest

801 Benton Way Wenatchee, WA 98801 Smart phone App from Sportsman 667-2769

Regs

Ritzville Gun Club

Lind Golf & Gun Club

Chelan Co. 509-682-2421

Wenatchee Rifle and Revolver Club Chelan Co. 509-679-3909

North Central Washington Gun Club Douglas Co. 509-884-5639

Wenatchee Gun Club Douglas Co. 509-884-6490

Boyd Mordhorst Memorial Range Grant Co. 509-345-2550 and 509-760-3994

Coulee City Sportsmen Grant Co. 509-632-5137

Marlin Trap Club 28 Grant Co. 509-982-2445

Moses Lake Gun Club Grant Co. 509-765-1382

Quincy Gun Club Grant Co. 509-237-1166

Omak Fish and Game Okanogan Co. Oroville Gun Club Okanogan Co. 509-476-2241

Tonasket Gun Club Okanogan Co. 509-485-3716

ENCOUNTERS OF

THE FUR KIND

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE FACED WITH A WILD ANIMAL Bears inhabit most of Region 2 (Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan Counties) and cougars inhabit anywhere deer and elk live. Few people will encounter a bear or cougar unexpectedly, but a little forethought might help in a surprising situation.

The WDFW has suggestions on its website including: • Don’t run! A cougar’s instinct is to chase when in close quarters.

• Face the cougar and speak firmly while backing away and leaving it an escape route.

• Use tricks to make yourself appear larger, for example use clothing to hold open, or stand on a rock or stump.

• Do not take your eyes off the cougar or try to hide.

• Never approach the cougar especially if it has food or kittens.

• Use anything you have to throw at the cougar if it does not leave on its own or if it shows signs of aggression with the idea being that you’ll appear as a threat instead of prey.

• And in the rare instance that the cougar attacks, fight back with anything you have or can grab, pepper spray works good, too.

Cougars have been driven away simply by fighting back.

AND WHEN ENCOUNTERING A BEAR: • Avoid eye contact which could encourage a charge and stay calm while trying to identify yourself as a human.

• Give the bear plenty of room and do not approach, especially if it has cubs.

• If leaving is not a safe option and the bear does not run, try to scare it by yelling or making loud noises and clapping.

• Fight back if the bear attacks, but know that if it continues to fight, protect yourself by curling into a ball protecting your neck with your hands.

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

23

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24

HUNTING & FISHING GUIDE 2015

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

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