Ottawa Area Mentoring, Small Game, Deer and Ducks 2018

For those in the Ottawa area and further out, I am willing to host new hunters for weekend hunting. I had no one to mentor me and I made a lot of mistakes and wasted many opportunities to take game. To that end, I go out every weekend (mostly-unless wife put foot down) until Dec for all game listed in subject line.

I hunt on crown (public) land and know many spots for hunting all game. I stay Fri-Sun so if you only have time for a morning hunt or an evening hunt, by all means join me. There is 22,000 acres of Public Land with legal hunting in Ottawa.

Thru trial and error and reading I have learned how to spot signs of animals, what to look for and how to move when hunting. As a former soldier, I am very safe and stress safety right off the bat.

I have all the gear needed for all types of hunting and can expose you to it and how I do hunts. I am by no means an "expert" but have learned valuable lessons to pass on.

Ducks/Geese
Deer
Rabbits/grouse/Crow/other small game
Coyote
Wild Edibles mushrooms/herbs/berries

Since I am in location and camp all weekend, I have all that is needed to camp out at night, cook, clean, process game. IF you are to stay over at night, I have two tents to use and you would be welcome to share and use my camping gear. Not having this gear, should not take from your experience of wanting to try.

You would need to have your own guns, ammo, licenses, food and water if staying. However, if you have all licenses, but don’t have a gun I will lend you one. Pay me for the ammo and clean gun once used is my price.

All the lands and locations I hunt are accessible by car. I am not a business nor do I charge anything for this help, just someone who wants to give back. The coffee is always on and I welcome anyone.

Mark 613-863-5483 or Mark Snow (Ottawa) on Facebook.

Routine

Anyone who wants to go with me I am good to go, my cell is up higher in the post. Add me and send me a text. I can show you all the areas I hunt on crown land and give you a tour of the crown I hunt.

Once small game/duck opens I am in the woods every weekend in my truck camper. All the roads leading into my locations are generally safe for cars, last year Honda civics made it in all year. You do have to pick you way through some of the rougher road parts, because of rocks. I have not been out yet to assess the road and pond conditions in the Marlborough forest tracts yet as the gates do not open until 1st weekend in Sept.



To give you an idea of a typical weekend routine. I am not a service or business, just really enjoy good times with safe and dedicated hunters.

Arrive Friday afternoon and set up Truck camper, pop up shelter, BBQ, cleaning station on site and the following routine applies every weekend until deer season. Set out decoys and leave in place as I stay all weekend on the same ponds.

Fri - Eve - Duck hunt until dark, supper, movies, fire, refreshment or 2.

Sat Morn - Duck AM, off ponds at 9-10, big breakfast/brunch
Sat - Late morn - early afternoon - road hunt for small game, rabbits, grouse and wild edibles
Sat - Eve - Duck hunt til dark, supper movies, fire, refreshment or 2.

Sun Morn - Duck AM, off ponds at 9-10, big breakfast/brunch (depending weather might stay for road hunt but generally leave after breakfast.

Accommodations - I have a truck camper..The top bunk is mine, the table bunk is available, as well as the floor. You can bring a tent if wish, many have in the past two yrs, I have two extra with sleeping bags to use.

Water transport - I have: to use and share. ( I have limited life jackets so use at own risk, plus 5 paddles)
12 ft duck boat
12 tinner
14 ft canoe (all camo)

The ponds I hunt have deep channels, tall reeds with some areas where you can stand in reeds beds. However, I suspect this year with high water, I will not be able to stand in reeds more than likely boat shooting (pulled up on reed beds for more stability) No pond is longer than 150M in length.

Widest distance across ponds is 30 M, except one which is unlimited.

Food, BYOB, Ammo, guns, camo, and licenses. I ask that everyone prove they are legal hunters to hunt with/together me. I will always show mine.

I always have a 20 cup coffee percolator pot of coffee on to provide before and after hunts. I have coffee cream and sugar. Bring a cup, but, I have dollar store cups as well. If you come often, a donation of sugar or paper coffee cups would be appreciated. No toilet, but the woods and I carry TP all the time, and have a shovel if needed.

Food wise, if you are staying the weekend, you are responsible for your own food stores. I have a full spice rack, and all the normal condiments to share or bring your own. I have a portable BBQ, propane burner for fries (big) and a stove in camper all propane. I also have a two burner naptha stove for extra cooking stations. I have propane lanterns as well for at night. But generally the fire provides enough light for outside. I collect wood scraps from building sites during the week. Any that you bring helps as well.

I have a 5K Genny that I run during heavy uses, but my camper is off grid with solar power and battery storage for charging phones and stuff.

I am into having a few drinks, but frown on heavy hung over and unsafe activities at any time. If you are a safety hazard to yourself, then you are to others as well. Like to make sure that does not happen.

I cook many a meal out of duck/goose on site and a few can attest to the meals, Cream, red wine reductions, coconut duck meals are quite regular. All meals are served over bed of white rice. Typically ingredients are onion, peppers and carrots as veg additives. Please feel free to offer your own recipes, and cook your Fav meal for others.
One of my buddies is the Head Chief at the Chateau Laurie..if he comes out you are in for a treat in cooking.

One meal is always a steak for me, I bring one each weekend. Bacon and eggs, cereal whatever. Like I said, I have everything needed to cook about 4 meals at once (burners), and plate up to 8 people at time. Lots of cooking stations to use to help with meal preps.

Most that come out get into the spirit and help with all the work, clean up and cooking.

Last point, there is bears in the area and they have visited all sites I go to. I have never had a bad bear encounter, but I am always armed, except at camp or after dark (legally).

Like I said earlier, stay the weekend, or show up for a morning hunt or evening and leave. Some guys have kids and are just happy to get out for morning/eve hunt. The coffee is always on, it is about hunting, learning and sharing good times with others.

Mark 613-863-5483

Points

I am going to keep bumping this to the top. And other points.

-I have 3 outdoor chairs.
-Water for washing dishes comes from the ponds. If you need to shower, I have the shower in a bag, you heat up water in the big burner, grab a tarp and go shower...trust me..you don't want to fall into the muck..you will need to shower.
-Drinking water needs to be brought in. For coffee water, I have a 5 gallon blue jug...go thru lots of coffee on weekends...lol
-Walmart 24 pack of bottled water is $1.88.
-I burn all paper and burnable garbage and have garbage on site, they get locked up at night.
- Decoys I have 12 bigfoot land geese, 32 floater mallards and wood ducks, 3 floater goose. If you have decoys, then bring them. I have enough for one pond but will split up to cover two ponds.
- it has been my experience, that those who sleep in camper...sleep hard and snore (me too), bring earplugs.
- The back seat of my F250 is 6ft across and has been used to sleep in...see above point..lol
- I have 2 of each goose/duck calls
- The Primos cheap calls at CTC work, I have Capital Waterfowler goose/duck for long distance turning, but generally stick to cheap calls (as ponds are 70% pass/40% call patterns). If you are a caller, great, if not I can teach.
- 3 life jackets only - If you have one or access to bring it. It is surprising how many people fall out.. Excitement, or non-familiar with canoes/boats.
- A change of clothes...in case you fall in, step on a solid weed bed..then go up to crotch on muck..everyday....
-the camper has a heater, and works great to dry even duck coats and duck boots..if you can stand the smell in camper of nasty wet swamp/sweat socks. Better to hang dry footwear..
-a spare pair of boots, or hip waders. I only use CTC Muck Boots, and buy felt extra liners, and silver colored inserts at Dollar store. 10 packs (felt pads/liners) for $20.00, cheap and burnable. You do not need to be high tech. The felt liners that (boots), come with dry quickly.
-Camo requirements – Since 90% of all hunting is done standing in reeds, upper body, face and hand camo is a must. You can buy face shield, grease paint and cheap gloves at dollar tree and other stores. Bring a couple sets of gloves if it rains. Lower body is not that important, when in reeds.
-I have no music on my phone, or stereo for camper. I like it but don't bring me. Love all kinds of music.
- I have yet to be visited by a CO, so ensure to have a cheap gun sock (after dark), or a floating gun case...just saying...magnets work well to retrieve sunken guns.
-the swamp muck on edges...is deep...like crotch deep

Good on you for doing this Mark!

I may just run out to say hi, and hang out. Going to start carrying gear to work so not hard to go east instead of west.

I wish I lived near Ottawa I'd be all over this...

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Originally Posted by Big Jack

Good on you for doing this Mark!

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My thoughts exactly, very generous !

I wish I lived closer to give you a hand and maybe learn a couple new things. I want to thank you for doing this for others that don't have the privilege/opportunity of doing it them selves. I had to learn by myself and i wish I had this type of opportunity

I have been out and hunted with Marc on several occasions and can attest to both his extensive knowledge of the area and his hospitality. I highly recommend getting out for at least a hunt or two as the area has plenty of game.

Hi All,

Been gone on vacation for two weeks and just returned today. I am there every weekend and this is crown land, so you if can get up and make a weekend out of it, come on down.

Hello Mark. I'd love to take you up on your offer. I'm a neophyte when it comes to hunting, but have been fishing and an outdoors man for more years than I care to share. I joined the board for exactly this. I recently got my hunting coarse and small game licence. Work keeps me pinned down, even on many weekends, but want to learn when I can get away. Upland, Turkey, Goose, Rabbit, Deer, Boar? I have a handy selection of arms, perhaps I need something more realistic for Upland / Duck / Goose hunting would be needed... see I think I just gave myself permission to buy another gun :). Should I just call or txt to introduce and co-ordinate? I'm on the very West End of Ottawa ... Fit
zroy Harbour to be exact.

You great person. Thank you for doing this for the new hunters in ottawa. I would love to come on this weekend hunting.

KarlR, no worries, if you don't pick up a shotgun before then. I have several to use. The cost is ammo (if you don't bring own), and cleaning once used for the next person.

If you have all license requirement, but don't have a gun..no worries..I can make something happen for any game needs.

The camp set up for opening day last year, austere, but functional.Attachment 37186

Bump to top for new hunters joining the forum.

Can't wait to join in this season! Thanks for doing this for the new hunters Mark!

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Originally Posted by line052

The camp set up for opening day last year, austere, but functional.Attachment 37186

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Better looking then what I could be using. A camp cot and a tarp off the side of the truck..

What WMU is your camp in? You are right on the line for a couple areas that have different season dates for small game and waterfowl.

I will be up, if nothing more then to drink tea and sit around the fire. Ok going to burn a few marshmallows too.

64A it's Marlborough Forest, I forget which road. Mark is a great guy to hunt with. If you make it up would also like to meet you.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

Better looking then what I could be using. A camp cot and a tarp off the side of the truck..

What WMU is your camp in? You are right on the line for a couple areas that have different season dates for small game and waterfowl.

I will be up, if nothing more then to drink tea and sit around the fire. Ok going to burn a few marshmallows too.

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Mark,

Thanks for the great offer of mentoring. I grew up hunting in Labrador and just got my PAL and H1 card in the last month.
I bought my first shotgun this week and would love to join in on an afternoon of upland and evening of ducks/geese. I'd like to do a morning too but that might not work out with the wife and son.
I have my small game and will pick up a migratory license as well.

Just a few questions to clarify things:
Should I wear blaze orange when upland hunting?
Is Mossy Oak\Real Tree ok for ducks or do I need waterfowl camo?
Wader or just rubber boots?
Is there a specific parking lot you use in Marlborough Forest?

I'm sure I'll come up with something else but for now, thanks and I look forward to meeting you and other Eastern Ontario hunters.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

Mark,

Thanks for the great offer of mentoring. I grew up hunting in Labrador and just got my PAL and H1 card in the last month.
I bought my first shotgun this week and would love to join in on an afternoon of upland and evening of ducks/geese. I'd like to do a morning too but that might not work out with the wife and son.
I have my small game and will pick up a migratory license as well.

Just a few questions to clarify things:
Should I wear blaze orange when upland hunting?
Is Mossy Oak\Real Tree ok for ducks or do I need waterfowl camo?
Wader or just rubber boots?
Is there a specific parking lot you use in Marlborough Forest?

I'm sure I'll come up with something else but for now, thanks and I look forward to meeting you and other Eastern Ontario hunters.

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Welcome to the Ottawa area Rob, lots of hunting to be done around here and lots of public land.

Mark is a good guy, likes to talk politics too, ha ha ha.

Be sure to come out when we have a breakfast again, a number of us get together to talk shop a couple times a year.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Fox

Be sure to come out when we have a breakfast again, a number of us get together to talk shop a couple times a year.

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Thanks, I replied to a breakfast post in the Events and Meetings not realizing it was from 2017 either.

Are there a lot of coyotes in Marlborough Forests? I’ve been looking at the map and I think I might go for a hike/scout on the weekend and I was wondering if I should bring a gun?

I only have a shotgun right now so it would be a 12ga with mod choke and #2 shot(what I currently have) or I could get another size.

Edit: I would also have my 10yo son with me and worry more about him than me.

Any thoughts?

Thanks ,
Rob

Line052 is the man to ask on that, he knows quite a bit about Marlborough forest.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

Are there a lot of coyotes in Marlborough Forests? I’ve been looking at the map and I think I might go for a hike/scout on the weekend and I was wondering if I should bring a gun?

I only have a shotgun right now so it would be a 12ga with mod choke and #2 shot(what I currently have) or I could get another size.

Edit: I would also have my 10yo son with me and worry more about him than me.

Any thoughts?

Thanks ,
Rob

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I see a lot of yote tracks when I am out there

WMU 64A Marlborough Forrest

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

Better looking then what I could be using. A camp cot and a tarp off the side of the truck..

What WMU is your camp in? You are right on the line for a couple areas that have different season dates for small game and waterfowl.

I will be up, if nothing more then to drink tea and sit around the fire. Ok going to burn a few marshmallows too.

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Just a few questions to clarify things:
Should I wear blaze orange when upland hunting?

A. Always except Duck hunting. Regs are specific to when, but as a general rule...I wear at all times when not duck or in camp. Safety first

Is Mossy Oak\Real Tree ok for ducks or do I need waterfowl camo?

A. The ponds I hunt and teach on are all in reeds Reed beds, any camo will do, BUT most important is face and hand camo. You could wear pink pants, and a grey top.. only your heads and shoulders protrude. By the time they see it is too late.

Wader or just rubber boots?

I get by all season with Rubber Muck boots from CTC. We mostly stand on reed beds (low water), or pull boats up on reeds. I have 3 boats to share and ferry people about


Is there a specific parking lot you use in Marlborough Forest?

Text me at number above and I will provide directions. 90% of last year, people were able to drive right into location of camp in Honda Civics..bit rocky..but take your time.

Since I am in the woods every weekend..anytime is good for me.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

Mark,

Thanks for the great offer of mentoring. I grew up hunting in Labrador and just got my PAL and H1 card in the last month.
I bought my first shotgun this week and would love to join in on an afternoon of upland and evening of ducks/geese. I'd like to do a morning too but that might not work out with the wife and son.
I have my small game and will pick up a migratory license as well.

Just a few questions to clarify things:
Should I wear blaze orange when upland hunting?
Is Mossy Oak\Real Tree ok for ducks or do I need waterfowl camo?
Wader or just rubber boots?
Is there a specific parking lot you use in Marlborough Forest?

I'm sure I'll come up with something else but for now, thanks and I look forward to meeting you and other Eastern Ontario hunters.

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LOTS and LOTS of Yotes...however they are very smart and the chances of you seeing one on a walk is about 10%. I do coyote camps as well and full on Coyote hunt all fall and winter.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

Are there a lot of coyotes in Marlborough Forests? I’ve been looking at the map and I think I might go for a hike/scout on the weekend and I was wondering if I should bring a gun?

I only have a shotgun right now so it would be a 12ga with mod choke and #2 shot(what I currently have) or I could get another size.

Edit: I would also have my 10yo son with me and worry more about him than me.

Any thoughts?

Thanks ,
Rob

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Thanks for the info Mark. I'll fire you a text later this week to get directions and details about early goose and the start of duck.

Robin

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

LOTS and LOTS of Yotes...however they are very smart and the chances of you seeing one on a walk is about 10%. I do coyote camps as well and full on Coyote hunt all fall and winter.

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I still have your caller, ha ha

Can you bring to breakfast..not running in an election this fall or Winter...so back at it.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Fox

I still have your caller, ha ha

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Keeping this alive for the opener and season.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

Keeping this alive for the opener and season.

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I was just coming by to bump it myself.

You planning on coming up?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

I was just coming by to bump it myself.

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ONE WEEK...till I can get out for the first of early goose..can't wait.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

You planning on coming up?

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Leaving from work and heading straight there:thumbup:. Karen would like to come, but she says it will be too hot and the muzzy are going to be real bad. I have been working on the trailer( lifted ) I carry gear in, and this will be the test trip. Both mine and Karen's rims have to be repainted before winter. Mine are not bad and the rust spots clean up quick. Karen's .....well lets just say I am head to the store to buy a few more wire wheels, and I have not even finished getting the rust off the first one. :sad: I cleaned them up and she repainted them herself last fall, but she did not use good paint.. She now knows NOT to use BBQ paint for winter rims:ashamed:, I am worried she may even have to buy new rims.. :scream:

Sorry off topic...

Oh am also going to get my stamp today.

Maybe a quick tease..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuTY0XfwTYs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YVj...9YC_tu&index=5
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAJVJ2u23io
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aNnuPuW4o0

Getting my Stamp next Wednesday...latest I have ever got it yet.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

Getting my Stamp next Wednesday...latest I have ever got it yet.

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I have my stamp, my expired outdoor card, and six copies of my temporary outdoor card and licenses. Since I am playing in the water and they are only printer paper, bad things will happen.

The trailer is loaded and sitting at my companies yard in TO. I will be leaving for your camp some time Thursday night. Likely will miss the friday morning hunt, or have to run back to smith falls for groceries after the morning hunt..
Time will tell.

Still have to get my stamp will try tomorrow

Quote:

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

Still have to get my stamp will try tomorrow

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Don't forget your sneakers and your health card..:joker:

I’ve got everything except the rubber boots.

I’ll be out for the Sunday morning goose hunt.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

I’ve got everything except the rubber boots.

I’ll be out for the Sunday morning goose hunt.

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We will have shot them all by then...:joker:

I hope not! All I need is one or two for my start back into hunting.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

I hope not! All I need is one or two for my start back into hunting.

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So Rob.....did you get your one or two to start back into hunting?:joker:

Like I always say. You can always learn from someone, does not matter if they do it the right way or the wrong way. You will still learn something, even it is NOT what to do.

And Never believe a politician. :(

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

We will have shot them all by then...:joker:

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The "Big Question Is " did you get any ?

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Originally Posted by jaycee

The "Big Question Is " did you get any ?

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Ask mark...:rolleyes:

Well the worst early goose yet (let me rephrase that...NONE), pretty boring when waiting for the fly out and fly, and nothing shows up. FIrst time in 5 seasons no geese in the back pond overnighting, always was a sure thing. Fri Eve, Sat morn, Sat night...nothing. SO bad we decided not to go Sunday morning, with no flights overnighting there would no fly out in morning.

Sunday morning we slept in and Poor Ottawa Rob showed up at 0530 to a full cmap asleep...(Sorry ROb, for not texting). Now that being said, just after a big breakfast we finally had an overflight..that had we been on the pond those with long reach could have taken a 40 yrd shot. Then we had a single lone goose fly over camp..two shots and did not down it.

Got out for a lesser coyote hunt as one of the best spots I go had a Dad in the field with kids on dirt bikes, so we tried a smaller area with an unsuccessful Yote/Crow hunt.

SO disappointing results, but not to be taken as a bad thing, as they do call it hunting ...not catching..lol. (Best save face statement I can come up with)

But, truth be told the camp ran well, and the new people that came out for the first time, got chat with fellow hunters and learn how it everything was done (without taking a shot). The new hunters got to learn, got to experience a camp, sleep in a tent or cars, experience camp life. The camp routine was awesome at meal time, with everyone helping and bring a food to table and many good laughs were shared to make up for lack of geese.

So despite a disappointing shoot for geese, it was a good learning experience for new hunters and will only get better when duck open (lots of them all weekend).

Camp suppers were a blast, along with camp life with everyone helping out. It can only go up from here.

Well the worst early goose yet (let me rephrase that...NONE), pretty boring when waiting for the fly out and fly, and nothing shows up. FIrst time in 5 seasons no geese in the back pond overnighting, always was a sure thing. Fri Eve, Sat morn, Sat night...nothing. SO bad we decided not to go Sunday morning, with no flights overnighting there would no fly out in morning.

Sunday morning we slept in and Poor Ottawa Rob showed up at 0530 to a full cmap asleep...(Sorry ROb, for not texting). Now that being said, just after a big breakfast we finally had an overflight..that had we been on the pond those with long reach could have taken a 40 yrd shot. Then we had a single lone goose fly over camp..two shots and did not down it.

Got out for a lesser coyote hunt as one of the best spots I go had a Dad in the field with kids on dirt bikes, so we tried a smaller area with an unsuccessful Yote/Crow hunt.

SO disappointing results, but not to be taken as a bad thing, as they do call it hunting ...not catching..lol. (Best save face statement I can come up with)

But, truth be told the camp ran well, and the new people that came out for the first time, got chat with fellow hunters and learn how it everything was done (without taking a shot). The new hunters got to learn, got to experience a camp, sleep in a tent or cars, experience camp life. The camp routine was awesome at meal time, with everyone helping and bring a food to table and many good laughs were shared to make up for lack of geese.

So despite a disappointing shoot for geese, it was a good learning experience for new hunters and will only get better when duck open (lots of them all weekend).

Camp suppers were a blast, along with camp life with everyone helping out. It can only go up from here.

I do have to say, Snowalker is the real deal and is exceptionally well equipped (for hunting). A very generous guest, who brought along his own Chef...who was attacked late Saturday night, by my 88lbs boxer jumping down from top of bunk..right on top of him while sleeping.

While out for the first spot for coyote...and so typical...we came across 3 grouse 20 yards away from us on a road. Figures not open...

The food cover is still good despite the dry conditions, so should be a good season for grouse.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

I do have to say, Snowalker is the real deal and is exceptionally well equipped (for hunting). A very generous guest, who brought along his own Chef...who was attacked late Saturday night, by my 88lbs boxer jumping down from top of bunk..right on top of him while sleeping.

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I agree, it was a good call on Snowalker' side. Having a Chef prepare all the sausages and the boar was a particular treat! The meat came out just perfect.

And even though we didn't get to see 1000's of geese, it was a great weekend with an amazing group of people and a whole bunch of mentoring. 100% would do it again once the ducks open!

No problem on not letting me know there were no geese. I didn't get in touch either.

It was nice to hang out and shoot the breeze while enjoying some coffee.

I did mean to ask you about cleaning the birds though. Do you pluck or skin them there or take them home at the end of the day/weekend and do it?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

I do have to say, Snowalker is the real deal and is exceptionally well equipped (for hunting). A very generous guest, who brought along his own Chef...who was attacked late Saturday night, by my 88lbs boxer jumping down from top of bunk..right on top of him while sleeping.

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Thanks for the kind words....best part of the weekend was just being around others that want to learn and exchange ideas.

I hope Alex is not hurting too bad from the midnight attack. He is still recovering from a major accident on his bike. He is a lot stronger now then he was on the trip last year.

Hope to drag him out to a few more this year.

Maybe you should just have him plan the menu.

Watching the weather. Maybe Florence will push a pile of rain up here and the ponds will refill. Hey ya got to have a dream.

Best bet is bring them home whole. If we are eating onsite, then breast and legs for geese. Breast for geese, I slice into strips and soak in milk to draw the blood out. Then fry up in a stir fry, depending on cooler temp, you can marinate and eat at supper same night in camp. Duck, peppercorn red wine reduction for breasts, yum yum. Could go on a late Chanterelle and make a mushroom gravy for duck breast with fresh oregano, topped with fresh parsley all picked locally.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

No problem on not letting me know there were no geese. I didn't get in touch either.

It was nice to hang out and shoot the breeze while enjoying some coffee.

I did mean to ask you about cleaning the birds though. Do you pluck or skin them there or take them home at the end of the day/weekend and do it?

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I want to thank Snowwalker for being patient and providing transportation and much of the gear for me. He has been the very first person to take me out hunting from this forum, and i'm glad that a few years down the road he still is tolerating me and my behaviour, and doesn't mind making a detour to pick me up.


Line052, thank you for being a fantastic host. You kept everyone entertained, and engaged despite lacking birds. You were providing valuable information and coaching. It really shows that you are trying to build a community, and are more then willing to provide mentorship. I respect that, thank you for doing this. I am also super pleased that Snowwalker was able to arrange me joining you all even with the last minute notice. I had fun cooking all the meat, but i think you highly exaggerate my abilities. Also, i have yet to shoot an actual goose, so i'm looking forward to learning how to cook 'em ;).
Everyone who showed up was really great, and brought something to the table: literally and figuratively.


I had a fantastic time. Let's do this again. I'm hoping i can come out to the duck opener, if there is a ride from Toronto. That spot seems like it would be productive for that. And let's hope that the water levels come up.

It has been a great pleasure to meet many people from this forum in person, and share some stories around the fire.

Got one bird this morning. Very few birds are flying.

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Originally Posted by nomad

Got one bird this morning. Very few birds are flying.

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Were you shooting birds? Walked down to lake shore dr?

That pass shooting spot that Chris showed us.
There were 5 more hunters, most showed up ... about 30 minutes after the sunrise. Nothing was flying after.

Also, i need a call. Any recommendations?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by nomad

That pass shooting spot that Chris showed us.
There were 5 more hunters, most showed up ... about 30 minutes after the sunrise. Nothing was flying after.

Also, i need a call. Any recommendations?

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One that works......for you. Not me, not the sales guy...you. And go out and learn from the birds, watch the dvd but listen and learn from the birds.

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

One that works......for you. Not me, not the sales guy...you. And go out and learn from the birds, watch the dvd but listen and learn from the birds.

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I suspected that was the answer. However, i need a good starting point! So many to choose from.

Went out for a look this morning and there were no geese again. Nothing on the pond when I got there and nothing flying. Heard a few far off shots but that was it. There were a couple other hunters on the other side of the berm too.

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Originally Posted by Ottawa_Rob

Went out for a look this morning and there were no geese again. Nothing on the pond when I got there and nothing flying. Heard a few far off shots but that was it. There were a couple other hunters on the other side of the berm too.

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The water level is down in the back pond, and I suspect the lily pad and weed cover has covered the top of the remaining water enough that the geese will not land. Ducks will just drop into a hole between the vegetarian, but geese like a length of open water to land and take off.
I am hoping Florence and the storms coming behind it will push lots of rain into the Ottawa area and flood the ponds.

This is a truly generous offer for folks like me that have never hunted in the Ottawa area. Love you join you some time. I'll be texting you shortly. :)

Got that txt last night.

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Originally Posted by dhansen

This is a truly generous offer for folks like me that have never hunted in the Ottawa area. Love you join you some time. I'll be texting you shortly. :)

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We will see how the opener goes this weekend. Lots of ducks flying about, the duck hunting is the start of the day. In between duck hunts is small game, tracking, observing, leaning about habitat, deer sign and bear. Hopefully the geese come back, it just made for a well rounded day.

I am not discouraged, nor particularly worried. Still tons of hunts to do.

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Originally Posted by line052

We will see how the opener goes this weekend. Lots of ducks flying about, the duck hunting is the start of the day. In between duck hunts is small game, tracking, observing, leaning about habitat, deer sign and bear. Hopefully the geese come back, it just made for a well rounded day.

I am not discouraged, nor particularly worried. Still tons of hunts to do.

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Is anyone going from Toronto by any chance? I would love to be able to tag along and in need of a ride. Will contribute to gas/etc.

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Originally Posted by nomad

Is anyone going from Toronto by any chance? I would love to be able to tag along and in need of a ride. Will contribute to gas/etc.

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I get you for the Oct 5th weekend, just can't help the next two.

Since you got your first goose now, the pressure is off a little.

Excited to head to woods this afternoon and get set up the morning opener. After 12 today, I can be reached at 613-863-5483. Gonna be a wet and cold Friday including the evening according to forecast, but oh boy, oh boy...I am excited!!!

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Originally Posted by line052

Excited to head to woods this afternoon and get set up the morning opener. After 12 today, I can be reached at 613-863-5483. Gonna be a wet and cold Friday including the evening according to forecast, but oh boy, oh boy...I am excited!!!

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Hi Mark, will you be out Sunday morning? Trying to convince the wife to let me sneak out for a few hours...(even though the in-laws are in town)

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Originally Posted by anfield21

Hi Mark, will you be out Sunday morning? Trying to convince the wife to let me sneak out for a few hours...(even though the in-laws are in town)

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In-laws are the best reason to have reason to leave.

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

I get you for the Oct 5th weekend, just can't help the next two.

Since you got your first goose now, the pressure is off a little.

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Unfortunately unlikely i'll make it that weekend, will coordinate closer.

anyone going out this weekend? I've been given the all clear from my wife to hunt Saturday morning. Mark are you planning on setting up this weekend? Mind if I tag along?

Man up you don't ask permission you say your going hunting. :joker: :shades:

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Originally Posted by anfield21

anyone going out this weekend? I've been given the all clear from my wife to hunt Saturday morning. Mark are you planning on setting up this weekend? Mind if I tag along?

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

Man up you don't ask permission you say your going hunting. :joker: :shades:

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I prefer living to dying

Your suppose to wear pants not a skirt.:moose:

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Originally Posted by anfield21

I prefer living to dying

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

Your suppose to wear pants not a skirt.:moose:

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It is supposed to be a two way street, give and take, if not, if it,s all one way that is the reason for marriage break ups.
Who suffers ? why of course the children.

Hey guys, new hunter here.

I've had my RPAL for a few years but just finally got around to getting my hunting license.

Marlborough forest makes a lot of sense to me. I'm one of the few gun owners in Centretown, and as much as I'd like to take out one of the geese on the bike paths, I'm pretty sure it wouldn't work out so well.

I think I've got all the gear I need to deal with rabbits, game birds, and waterfowl. The freezer in my apartment won't quite fit a deer.

When would be a good time to come out that you'd be willing to show me the ropes? I don't think an overnight is in the cards right now, but I don't mind making the 45 min drive early, or late!

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Originally Posted by jaycee

It is supposed to be a two way street, give and take, if not, if it,s all one way that is the reason for marriage break ups.
Who suffers ? why of course the children.

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Ya that's the way it works around my place. She gives me grief, and I take my truck and go hunting..:thumbup:

Divorce? No problem, more time in the woods, less time listening to boring in-laws.;)

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

Your suppose to wear pants not a skirt.:moose:

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Unless he is Scottish. :D

Yes I am going out, and you are most welcome. P.S. BEST Response ever....lol

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Originally Posted by anfield21

I prefer living to dying

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No worries, give me txt 613-863-5483

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Originally Posted by Legio13

Hey guys, new hunter here.

I've had my RPAL for a few years but just finally got around to getting my hunting license.

Marlborough forest makes a lot of sense to me. I'm one of the few gun owners in Centretown, and as much as I'd like to take out one of the geese on the bike paths, I'm pretty sure it wouldn't work out so well.

I think I've got all the gear I need to deal with rabbits, game birds, and waterfowl. The freezer in my apartment won't quite fit a deer.

When would be a good time to come out that you'd be willing to show me the ropes? I don't think an overnight is in the cards right now, but I don't mind making the 45 min drive early, or late!

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Hey Mark I may have to come out again but this time for grouse! will let you know when i can make it and thanxs again for taking my duck hunting last year

Are you going to be at the camp oct 13th weekend?

Yes. Not going out this weekend. Scouting for new locations.

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Originally Posted by Pasta35

Are you going to be at the camp oct 13th weekend?

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Mark,

Not sure if I need mentoring....lol. But I'd love to get out with you for a day in Oct / Nov. I have a few spots up my way ( CBay), but am always willing to travel and bring the dog.

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Originally Posted by line052

Yes. Not going out this weekend. Scouting for new locations.

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You are not going to be out the weekend of the 5th? Just checking before I drag all my gear and the wife up there.

Ya was going to email you today. I want to check around a couple of location within the MB and in Kemptville along the river for a group hunt. The numbers are low for ducks and geese because of the low water situation. We have had about 8" of rise in ponds due to recent rains, but the habitat will not change because eof so much lilly pads.

Now the other thought, I have is this mentoring is not about numbers, but mentoring. Quite frankly, I don't I will find another area that offers the multitude of hunting opportunities as this location. We when scouting for Bear sign on Saturday and found two locations with clear sign along with plenty of deer sign as well.

I guess I have to answer the question in my head can I provide a more enriching experience, or should I just be happy with all that this site has to offer (which is plenty)...but it still has to be answered in my head. I suspect, I will not move the camp location. Second reason is I lost a boat (the duck kayak) due to crack, and it is being repaired, which puts me down to two boats and lots of ferrying. That will be fixed before weekend..

I have to satisfy that question in my head first. Some of the people want to go scouting (from camps) as part of learning process. So far this year, I am at 56 people thru camp in 3 weekends so far..exceeding by far total people if this rate keeps up. Maybe I can get another camp going, as another guy went out and bought a camper to help out and has expressed interest in starting a second camp. Same deal

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

You are not going to be out the weekend of the 5th? Just checking before I drag all my gear and the wife up there.

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Well if you got a couple experienced guys to help, maybe you could run two camps, or just send a few newbies off with the experienced guys. :thumbup:

PM sent.

This is a great. Once I do my hunting course I would like to come out for a day.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I went out Mountain Crown Conservation on Saturday to scope several ponds I located on Google maps. When I looked into the back in 2016, I was told it was only ATV type trails. I am please to report the roads (not trails), are passable by SUV or Truck. A small car can get in but, but some of the rutted roads have high center wheel ruts.

Several ponds located within reserve are what I would call geese only ponds as they are deep with very little "duck" food on shore. Very sparsely used trails as vegetation was not pounded down by vehicles. The furthest pond up road had recent signs of shotgun shooting with a nice collection of 3" and 3.5" shotgun shells recovered for reloading. Since most shells were of the 3.5" size, I would say those hunting this pond were shooting at long distance (best guess).

There is no doubt this is an overnight roosting spot, which lends to an evening hunt to catch returning birds, almost no way to sneak in during morning hunt, but many flocks flew overhead during my visit, which would lend to calling and decoys. However, during the morning fly out, geese seem to be focused on getting to feeding areas, vice landing after first flight.

As for other game opportunities, the cover and berries where plentiful, so I think it should sustain a good upland game population and I was hoping to see some road chickens on the way out 11 AM, but nothing.

I think this area would be a good area to spend a weekend once the leaves are down to present better small game visibility as it is quite thick with cover, never seen a single deer track on the roads or in woods I explored. It is a beautiful area to camp and explore for weekend and I think I might move the camp last weekend before deer season starts to test the area.

Those who come to current camp (next two weekends) I will share the location and plan to do so this weekend and next to try and organize a end month weekend. Distance from Ottawa South is about 15Km more then entrance to current location and road (trails) is 3.8KM to furthest location which takes more time with camper on truck. The trail is not as narrow as current trail into MB Camp, and the first 1.5KM is worst portion (secondary road), with many potholes filled with water.

I will see/share those who are coming this Friday within current camp location. 12FT kayak status, both repair solutions that were tried have not taken to stop the crack in seam and we are trying one more solution before I write it off and start looking for another 2 person boat.

See you in the woods!!

Kudos on the scouting report. Well done. That's a beautiful area, and only about 10 minutes from my place.

I've been absent from all things hunting since last deer season. A 4-month old has been keeping me busy lately. I wish I could join you guys--if not for a hunt, at least for some stories and coffee.

When I get back into the swing of things, I'll hit you up Mark. I look forward to hunting with you.

I used to hunt the Mountain Provincial Wildlife area a lot. I hunted there a bit for turkeys this spring. The ponds are hunted regularly for geese, and your assessment of how they are hunted is right on. The hunters who used to use it don't bother picking up their shells. Of the two places (Mountain or Marlborough), you will be disturbed a lot less at Marlborough.

Deer hunting at the Mountain Provincial Wildlife area used to be very good, especially if you had an antlerless tag, but I found that the deer population has gone down a lot over the last 10 years. Grouse hunting was good, but it's not great anymore. There a very few rabbits there. Turkey hunting there is still pretty good.

One other thing to note about that area (I could be wrong) is that it is owned by the South Nation Conservation Authority and a permit must be purchased to hunt there. http://www.nation.on.ca/sites/defaul...0ENGLISH_0.pdf

Mountain Area not SMCA

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Originally Posted by anfield21

One other thing to note about that area (I could be wrong) is that it is owned by the South Nation Conservation Authority and a permit must be purchased to hunt there. http://www.nation.on.ca/sites/defaul...0ENGLISH_0.pdf

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Mountain Provincial Wildlife Area? Former Winchester Bog? While it does sit in the South Nation watershed, it's owned and managed by MNRF. http://www.nation.on.ca/recreation/hunting

Unfortunately Mark's thread has been a bit derailed, but I just wanted to add - Most of the area, and the pond area in particular is not SNCA land. If you check the map in the following link, it shows where a permit is "required": http://geoportal.nation.on.ca/Html5V...lic.Mobile#%20

I had quite the discussion with the Co about that an area that I use to hunt they didn't even know where there land started or ended. They left me alone.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by anfield21

One other thing to note about that area (I could be wrong) is that it is owned by the South Nation Conservation Authority and a permit must be purchased to hunt there. http://www.nation.on.ca/sites/defaul...0ENGLISH_0.pdf

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Hi Mark. just came across this post. are you still out in the forest on weekend?

To all for the mentoring program.

I will have to put the rest of the season of the season on hold. I have been dealing with health issue and lots of testing lately, the results are in, and I will be having open heart surgery shortly for routine (but urgent condition), prognosis is 90%, so it pretty much kills the rest of my hunting season for the next month.

Since prognosis is so good, I can look forward to getting out after January 2019 for coyote season, but as of right now..NO DEER season for me or the mentoring program. Waterfowl was virtually none existent last weekend and I was going to move to deer scouting starting this weekend and find locations all of the new hunters as the signs around have been promising. I still might go out this weekend, but as soon as surgery is completed..I will be banned from diving for 6 weeks or so until my chest heals.

I want to thank all those who came out, partook, helped, shared and made this season so far, very memorable with many good laughs and good times...including my fine from MNR for a dumb(rear end) rookie move (forgetting plug in shotgun $125 fine). He was really good about it, and just shows due diligence, is always the first order of business.

The camp ran so smooth this year, with so many hunters helping with the logistics of running the camp. From cooking, to cleaning game, firewood, to picking up decoys and helping me cart everything back from waters edge and load into trailers and truck. We had great fires and many stories this season, staying up past 12AM just shooting the feces.

It brings great joy and happy memories to look back on this season with a final tally of 76 hunters through the camp, miles and miles put in road hunting, no one fell out of boats or got soaked this season. SO many learned from each other, many more made friends with fellow hunters and I am sure secured a few hunting bonds that will last a lifetime.

Best of luck with your surgery, Mark. You have been great to hunt with and your mentoring program is an example for all hunters to follow by

Godspeed my good man....hope the health care system treats you well !!!

Good luck Mark! My wife had a serious heart issue 2.5 years ago at a 37. The Heart Institute did amazing work, so much so that she now does volunteer work for them. You'll be fine and back at it in no time.

Good luck Mark! I only made it out once and didn't shoot at anything but it was a fun morning of chatting, coffee and breakfast.

Get well soon.

Quick Recovery Mark

I hope you have a speedy recovery my friend.

All the best to you Mark, and I wish you a quick and uneventful recovery!

best wishes there Mark.

Good luck sir!