2019 Ottawa Area Mentoring, Small Game, Deer and Ducks

For the 6^th year in a row

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 Camp Set Up. 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 camp, 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 will be setting up shelter. 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 camp all propane. 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 the camp 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.
- 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....
-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. NOTE: Ensure to check if your new gun has the SHOTGUN PLUG in…not speaking from experience…..$100.00 fine
-the swamp muck on edges...is deep...like crotch deep

Thank you Mark!
Looking forward to joining you in September
I have never hunted deck before and really appreciate you taking the time to show the art to newbies

wow this is just awesome.

props to you.

This is great Mark. I made it out one morning with you last year but nothing was around. Still enjoyed the coffee, eggs and talk though.

Hopefully I can get out to try again with you this year.

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Originally Posted by Bowjob

wow this is just awesome.

props to you.

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Maybe you should keep those decoys...

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

Maybe you should keep those decoys...

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lol they're my fathers they've been sitting in the garage for a while he hasn't went for duck in a few years. plus we are around Toronto area not Ottawa hah

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Originally Posted by Bowjob

lol they're my fathers they've been sitting in the garage for a while he hasn't went for duck in a few years. plus we are around Toronto area not Ottawa hah

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I am london and I still drag 100+ duck and all my goose decoys up to Ottawa.

For small game, when would the peak season be for duck? Vs other small game?

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Originally Posted by mardig88

For small game, when would the peak season be for duck? Vs other small game?

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let me explain waterfowl hunting...

Attachment 38744

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So basically we

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Good to hear from your Mark.

This is a great opportunity for anyone to go out hunting.

Occasionally I have drag my arse out there (I'm always busy). I have also met Snowwalker out there. I'm assuming you will be up again this year eh Snowwalker?

Mark is a great person to hunt with.

I'm planning to buy a new Mossy in Sept, told my son he can have my old 535 but he will be buying his own shells and he can buy me 1 box of the heavy metal stuff for me. So he gets the gun for 40 bucks essentially.

We will be out a couple of times. Finally my truck is almost done I did the DIY Rhino stuff on box just need to get the new tires picking up tomorrow and get it undercoated. The tires are on sale now for 175 regualry 250.

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

I'm assuming you will be up again this year eh Snowwalker?

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Yes we are trying to scrape together money, and have put a lot of my projects on hold... Wood stove in trailer would have been nice.:)

So personally I don't consider waterfowl small game (But you need to have the small game license and waterfowl stamp).

I see your in Montreal so if you plan to hunt in Ontario you would need a Ont out of province small game license about 100 bucks your waterfowl stamp I think is good any province, but check to make sure.

In Ontario I don't think there is a peak season as small game does not migrate. Small game in the Eastern Ontario opens I think around Sept 15, BUT ALWAYS CHECK REGS. When hunting small game I generally shoot what moves as long as I have identified my target. grouse, rabbits and squirrel season overlap. It will probably be the same in Quebec. but check the regulations (REGS).

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Originally Posted by mardig88

For small game, when would the peak season be for duck? Vs other small game?

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Thank you for the info
I got the Ontario outdoors card and sent them my Quebec hunting certification to be able to join Mark’s camp
I will join once in September, another time mid October at least. If I can make it more often I’ll do it since I find this a great opportunity to learn

Agree with GW about their not being a "peak" time for grouse and rabbits - however, until the leaves drop, hitting one can be pretty tough. Woodcock have a definite peak as they are migratory - it can be awesome for a couple of weeks after thanksgiving, hit and miss otherwise. Waterfowl - earlier is better for resident birds.

Great thank you!

Yes you do and DID...for nothing that weekend...lol. Just some good stories and good fires...no geese. But that is what it all about, good times, learning, sharing.

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

I am london and I still drag 100+ duck and all my goose decoys up to Ottawa.

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Duck opener on the ponds is always exciting as they are not wary of hunters for the most part. Lots of locations in this area for waterfowl opportunities.

Small Game like Wiener has pointed is always a challenge when hunting for rabbit or grouse along the edge lines we go to. The thick cover reduces the chances of getting a clear shot, but it makes up for the learning experience of JUST HOW fast and furious the grouse flush is. Quite frankly is scares the bejesus out of me on first flush each season..lol. Early season grouse is a great time to learn about habitat, conditioning the mind to the flush, and learning proper ways to carry for quick safe action shooting. IT can be frustration the first couple of times, but trust me all go though it.

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Originally Posted by line052

Small Game like Wiener has pointed is always a challenge when hunting for rabbit or grouse along the edge lines we go to. The thick cover reduces the chances of getting a clear shot, but it makes up for the learning experience of JUST HOW fast and furious the grouse flush is. Quite frankly is scares the bejesus out of me on first flush each season..lol. Early season grouse is a great time to learn about habitat, conditioning the mind to the flush, and learning proper ways to carry for quick safe action shooting. IT can be frustration the first couple of times, but trust me all go though it.

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I'm just surprised no one with a good upland dog has joined your camp. Takes grouse and woodcock hunting to a different experience.

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Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

I'm just surprised no one with a good upland dog has joined your camp. Takes grouse and woodcock hunting to a different experience.

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I always wanted a bird dog for grouse but the crap I find them in Eastern Ontario I don't know how good or bad a dog could be, this crap is thick.

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Originally Posted by Fox

I always wanted a bird dog for grouse but the crap I find them in Eastern Ontario I don't know how good or bad a dog could be, this crap is thick.

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Thick crap was made for a good bird dog. The Lazy approach you walk the trails even if its just a deer path when you hear the beeper go off follow it to the dog/bird look for an opening and send the bird up when you are ready. How do you think I do it.:D

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Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

Thick crap was made for a good bird dog. The Lazy approach you walk the trails even if its just a deer path when you hear the beeper go off follow it to the dog/bird look for an opening and send the bird up when you are ready. How do you think I do it.:D

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I don's have a dog, I am the guy going into the crap and having the bird bust back over my head, you can and do fall on your butt trying to line up on something flying directly at and over you, ha ha ha.

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Originally Posted by line052

Yes you do and DID...for nothing that weekend...lol. Just some good stories and good fires...no geese. But that is what it all about, good times, learning, sharing.

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I only brought the geese decoys.

How many ponds do you want decoys for? :cool:

I have been doing some scouting with google earth, and there are ponds south of your camp and a river/creek access off Flood Rd to that pond you were talking about.

Maybe something to explore well your gone over the week.:thumbup:

Great job Mark!

It was fun joining you for a few weekends. Looking forward to coming again this year (when the schedule allows it)

SO RF2 had a chance to explore the ponds we hunt and reported they are low. This was the same as last year (and the reason why early goose was bust). No worries, as the duck habitat will be good, I do fear that once the local population is done we might be looking for other spots. There is always still tons to do and hunt in this area, but the duck hunting is always highlight of the Morn/Eve events.

I am going to try and get in this weekend and send a drone up to assess the water conditions in the back ponds to see if they are accessible.

I do have concerns over the water management practices being used on the North West side of Dwyer Hill/Flood plain, as these conditions have never been like they are in the 6 yrs I have hunted these lands. There seems to be a deliberate effort to drain the ponds with the management of this watershed, and I am not sure if it is local property/or Conservation Authority that is busting the dams upstream. It is those dams which regulate the outflow and consistent levels within the MB. Those ponds were created by DU in the 70-80's for exactly the purpose of wetlands. Even in 2013 a very dry year the ponds were 50% higher then last 2 yrs.

This sounds real good Marc. I am starting out this year and hadn't even though/realized about duck hunting... I am definitely game for learning about it.

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Originally Posted by line052

I do have concerns over the water management practices being used on the North West side of Dwyer Hill/Flood plain, as these conditions have never been like they are in the 6 yrs I have hunted these lands. There seems to be a deliberate effort to drain the ponds with the management of this watershed, and I am not sure if it is local property/or Conservation Authority that is busting the dams upstream. It is those dams which regulate the outflow and consistent levels within the MB. Those ponds were created by DU in the 70-80's for exactly the purpose of wetlands. Even in 2013 a very dry year the ponds were 50% higher then last 2 yrs.

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It would be great to find out. The worst thing for a wetland is consistent water levels though. Having years of high water and years of extremely low water improves the quality of the landscape for waterfowl for the long term.

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Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

It would be great to find out. The worst thing for a wetland is consistent water levels though. Having years of high water and years of extremely low water improves the quality of the landscape for waterfowl for the long term.

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Last year there was heavy weed cover on the top of the pond next to Marc's camp, but there was some good depth to the water.

Maybe a weed rake could be used to clear off some of the floating weed mass to get the geese to land.

There is 4 accessible ponds that are reachable with using vehicles to move location in this area. I have 36 duck, Geese - 12 bigfoot land and 4 floater geese. When we have more floaters we can call down flocks, but water level in big might be the issue again this for overnight roosting for the morning fly out. I suspect it will be a bust for eve/morn mass flights we used to get, and more fly over, call down opportunities like last year.

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

I only brought the geese decoys.

How many ponds do you want decoys for? :cool:

I have been doing some scouting with google earth, and there are ponds south of your camp and a river/creek access off Flood Rd to that pond you were talking about.

Maybe something to explore well your gone over the week.:thumbup:

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Great my cell is up higher if you want to chat or text.

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

This sounds real good Marc. I am starting out this year and hadn't even though/realized about duck hunting... I am definitely game for learning about it.

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There is some great wild rice ponds in this 100 acres of ponds, but not accessible unless you have snowshoes to walk over reeds to get to them. However, they provide great Woodies flyby.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

It would be great to find out. The worst thing for a wetland is consistent water levels though. Having years of high water and years of extremely low water improves the quality of the landscape for waterfowl for the long term.

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Originally Posted by line052

There is 4 accessible ponds that are reachable with using vehicles to move location in this area. I have 36 duck, Geese - 12 bigfoot land and 4 floater geese. When we have more floaters we can call down flocks, but water level in big might be the issue again this for overnight roosting for the morning fly out. I suspect it will be a bust for eve/morn mass flights we used to get, and more fly over, call down opportunities like last year.

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36? That is almost one bag. ;)

As of now the plan is to be there on the 26th and get camp setup. We can make plans as we go. Only have two objectives for this year:
1) camp, hunt, and relax.

2) stay out of cell coverage as much as possible.

Just want to bump this for any new members to find.

Looking forward to the first weekend

Hoping for a pile of rain in the three weeks leading up to the opener for waterfowl. After that cool and clear or cold and overcast...

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

Hoping for a pile of rain in the three weeks leading up to the opener for waterfowl. After that cool and clear or cold and overcast...

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That’d help for sure

I will try to be out the 27 or might have to be on the 28th. I will bring a canoe if it is necessary. I have my own tent but might just sleep in the truck.

I didn't count but how many people are in for that weekend.

Mark would these other ponds be accessible by ATV?

Hey Mark
Good to hear from you again...We spoke a bit last year.
Hope all is well with you.

I'm not into waterfowl ( yet ) but I wouldn't mind doing a walk through/scouting session for deer and turkey. I'm always up for a foraging lesson or two as well.

Thanks,
Adam.

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Originally Posted by firedeptlt

Hey Mark
Good to hear from you again...We spoke a bit last year.
Hope all is well with you.

I'm not into waterfowl ( yet ) but I wouldn't mind doing a walk through/scouting session for deer and turkey. I'm always up for a foraging lesson or two as well.

Thanks,
Adam.

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Some rubber boots, and box of 3' BB a box of 2 3/4' 3 or 4 shot , and Mark will get you hooked on Waterfowl pretty quick. The decoys and gear is already provided so it's just show up and shoot.

If this is still open, I would love to join.

Ken


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Does the area have a population of grouse? And any plans to go out on the 15th?

No worries lots of activity to do, lots of roads to hump.

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Originally Posted by firedeptlt

Hey Mark
Good to hear from you again...We spoke a bit last year.
Hope all is well with you.

I'm not into waterfowl ( yet ) but I wouldn't mind doing a walk through/scouting session for deer and turkey. I'm always up for a foraging lesson or two as well.

Thanks,
Adam.

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Yup no worries, just text a couple days before opener for final details and directions.

Will be trying a new camp set up as I sold the truck camper and making an outfitters tent..sorta..

Always grouse in this area. Lots of locations.

Should be there Thursday night, with the updated( sleep in it now) trailer, and decoys.....likely too many decoys. Just don't ever tell Karen I said that....

Thursday night OK me too, I will take Friday off then and work on camp set up once in location. Gotta shake out the growing problems with new set up and develop a routine.

Bump To Top

Watching this thread... Hopefully some of you guys still have motivation come October cause my September weekends are jammed packed.

I will be there every weekend until the end of rifle deer season.

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Watching this thread... Hopefully some of you guys still have motivation come October cause my September weekends are jammed packed.

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I have gone for turkey and want to learn more (duck, deer, grouse). It’s is really hard to find a good mentor.


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Bumping to top.

Checking in after a while away. Thanks for doing your thing Mark. I plan to come and join you one of the weekends.

SO, I got this weekend to view the ponds, good news the ponds are not as low as I thought they would be, still low, but no mud banks. The drive in (at 3pm Friday), flushed 3 grouse on the road, dozens of ducks from the ponds and Doe with Fawn. Way more Bear scat, then I have seen in previous years. Lots of Yote poop as well.

Was surprised at Waterfowl Regs - Opener is 28th Sept. Just as well, normally by this time the geese are flocking like crazy, but not this year, they still haven't got into the fall swing. Which lends credence to my prediction of a long fall with cooler temps, then a very mild winter. The animals and trees are such great indicators of the cycles.

Seen some snow geese in the back pond, and woodcock crossing over. Good berry crop and edibles seen all over. So two more weekends of planning to kick off the 2019 season.

Thanks a lot for doing this for us newbies. Finally got my license this summer. Will definitely join you. When will you start the camp? The weekend of Sept 28?

Yes, that weekend, will be onsite Thursday night to set up new camp routine and shake out the bugs of new sleeping accommodations.

So the accommodations, decided to try and build a tarp tent from the 17 X 24 tarp for pontoon. Progress so far. Cut to size, now at home to add reinforcing edge ply (TREX Tape), Grommets, velco type closure and zipper. It is 8 X 12 with 4 ft high side walls.Attachment 38826

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Originally Posted by line052

So the accommodations, decided to try and build a tarp tent from the 17 X 24 tarp for pontoon. Progress so far. Cut to size, now at home to add reinforcing edge ply (TREX Tape), Grommets, velco type closure and zipper. It is 8 X 12 with 4 ft high side walls.Attachment 38826

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Hahaha.... looks like I am bringing the hilton model...
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We know she'll stand up to a Heck of a rain storm.. Lots of room inside, a floor and storage space outside on the sides that is covered and accessible from the two side doors of the main dome.

But I do like the idea of a home built tent. I would like to get a Baker tent or two. One is enough for a small bush camp, and two with a tarp forms a very nice tent for four to six people with a small heater or fire in colder weather.

I might be out for the 28'th Logan and I. I but will confirm next weekend.

Line052 have you seen any sign of Ducks and Geese?

Snowalker what weekend are you coming up?

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

Line052 have you seen any sign of Ducks and Geese?

Snowalker what weekend are you coming up?

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Karen and I are heading to camp on the 26th( she'll likely sleep most of the 27th) and we will be there for the 28th to 29th and the 5th to 6th weekends. We will also be hanging the area the week between.

Just not at mark's camp, give the ducks a rest between weekends.

So up to camp on the 26th of September and leaving for home on the 6th of October.

I loved the camper, but set up is once done, it will give me more mobility and options to get to crown land out further in late fall. The eventually goal is winter camping with a GStove.

Lots of ducks on trip in on all ponds

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Originally Posted by line052

Lots of ducks on trip in on all ponds

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Sounds like your trying to tease us..
:cool:
Hope they stick around for the Ambush...

Great thing you're doing here, would love to join you but really need to spend one on one time with the dog, getting him used to gunfire over birds, etc. before joining a group. If you're still doing this next year, I'd love to tag along.

Don’t know if these are any good but almost half price for waders sounds good. Thoughts?
https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/o...8380p.html#srp


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Originally Posted by kwaugh

Don’t know if these are any good but almost half price for waders sounds good. Thoughts?
https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/o...8380p.html#srp


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Any waders are better then no waders when it gets deep. Neoprene is a very good insulator so if it is not cool to cold out your going to be warmer then you like. I'd grab them, and a pair of cheap NON-neoprene waders for the warmer weather.

I normally buy sock footed waders and then boots. I can get waders that fit right( you want room to add layers) and allow you to move.

If you could not climb up and down a ladder or lift you foot and climb out of a pond because the fit is too tight, you could be risking your life.

I am on the fence about waders, but my opinion is biased because I only hunt ponds. That being said, I have hunted these ponds in a pair of crocs or sneakers when the water is low. Most times I only CTC Muck Boots (Black, as I wont pay $25 more for the camo type, the birds don't see your feet in the reeds or most of lower body for that matter). Waders, my opinion not needed unless you have this criteria
- Shallow hard bottom
- no slippery rocks
- no boat, kayak, canoe or some type of retrieval system (dog/rope hook)

If you plan on hunting ponds or water edges, the silt and muck is quite deep, suction, thick and hard to manoeuver in or across.

Also, there is a personal reason I wont wear them. 20 yrs my buddy and his brother died 20 ft (in 20ft of water)offshore because the weight of the boots and straps (which were under coat), did not allow them to get out (no life jackets worn either) of boots before they drowned. (so at the very least don't wear suspenders under coat and wear a life jacket), they found Mike still clutching his brother trying to help him. Mike/Mark Moore and Paul Gracie. South Shore, Wolf Island, Kingston Duck hunting. 12ft Aluminum boat with 3 guys...... we spend 2 days searching the shoreline before they found them. (Veterans/Bothers in arm)

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Originally Posted by kwaugh

Don’t know if these are any good but almost half price for waders sounds good. Thoughts?
https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/o...8380p.html#srp


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I still use the old combat pant (olive drab) and boots with neoprene socks. Wade out up to my waist at times. Those magic pants dry in minutes. Feet stay warm and boots laced up above the ankle prevent mud from sucking them off. Work for years in the infantry...never found a better substitute...

Waders...for standing in a stream fly fishing with your Tilley Hat ...:)

You make a good point about waders, and this is good reminder for all or at least the newbies. Never wear the shoulders straps of the waders while in a boat or have them over your coat. I only wear the belt with a quick release and life jacket while motoring to the blind. Then put shoulder straps on. And of course if it raining you want to put coat over the straps so rain doesn't go down your waders. I was mentoring few years back and it was raining. I made sure all straps were over the coats. When we got there I took my coat off and put straps under. Told the rest should do the same, they didn't. It started to rain pretty good, they all got wet from waist down.

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Originally Posted by MikePal

I still use the old combat pant (olive drab) and boots with neoprene socks. Wade out up to my waist at times. Those magic pants dry in minutes. Feet stay warm and boots laced up above the ankle prevent mud from sucking them off. Work for years in the infantry...never found a better substitute...

Waders...for standing in a stream fly fishing with your Tilley Hat ...:)

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Want to try your gear on the Miramichi River for some Blue bills, and Sea Ducks? ;) Standing in the Middle of the Decoys up to your waist in the water is a hunt that will separate the men from the boys.

Then you'll need a long HOT shower to separate the men from the women. :joker:

Thank you for the feedback on waders. As a newbie, all advice is welcome and I am sorry about the loss of your friends



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This afternoon I saw the first flock over Montreal
I won’t be able to join on opening weekend or the following weekend
Hoping that you guys save some for the weekend of the 11th of October

I heard a few geese here in Russell just an hour ago. Didn't see them was to busy piling firewood.

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Originally Posted by line052

they found Mike still clutching his brother trying to help him. Mike/Mark Moore and Paul Gracie. South Shore, Wolf Island, Kingston Duck hunting. 12ft Aluminum boat with 3 guys...... we spend 2 days searching the shoreline before they found them. (Veterans/Bothers in arm)

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Must have been awful....so sorry

Last night in Ottawa was the first time at night I heard flocking geese at dusk. Very late this year, I find myself more in-tune with Nature since I became a hunter (as opposed to soldiers thinking). With the early wet season and farmers not planting til later, it affects crops harvesting. I am seeing that over the last 8 years of hunting - the natural cycles. Leaves still haven't changed in Ottawa, unlike 3 yrs when they did in mid August, squirrels are just starting the nut harvest with pine cones as they are starting to drop. I am no Farmers Almanac, but I do "see" the cycles in relation to different years, which is something I have never noticed in the first 48 yrs of my life.

Is anybody going out this weekend? I can go out Friday night so long as I’m back for Saturday afternoon.

I expect to be out the 28th. Mark have you seen many ducks?

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Is anybody going out this weekend? I can go out Friday night so long as I’m back for Saturday afternoon.

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I think the fun starts on the 28th. Small game is open, but not Waterfowl.

8 days( or less) and I am on vacation.

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

I think the fun starts on the 28th. Small game is open, but not Waterfowl.

8 days( or less) and I am on vacation.

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Yes, I know... But I can't wait... Maybe I could find a grouse or a bunny...

Too Much going on this weekend for me to get out. The Honey Do List - Before I get to focus on hunting is long. Have to drag the big boat to Winter heated storage on Sat, but will be heading to "camp spot" on Saturday afternoon to mow down site and prep area.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Yes, I know... But I can't wait... Maybe I could find a grouse or a bunny...

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

Too Much going on this weekend for me to get out. The Honey Do List - Before I get to focus on hunting is long. Have to drag the big boat to Winter heated storage on Sat, but will be heading to "camp spot" on Saturday afternoon to mow down site and prep area.

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Sounds like we are on opposite schedules this weekend. I probably will be on my way back when you head up. Hopefully I can free up some more time in the next few weekends...

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Yes, I know... But I can't wait... Maybe I could find a grouse or a bunny...

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Got me a grouse... If I wasn't so excited to get one, I probably would of gotten all three...

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Got me a grouse... If I wasn't so excited to get one, I probably would of gotten all three...

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Will you be out for the 28th?

I would love to see how this duck hunting works. I bought some #2 waterfowl shot on Saturday but I'm still trying to figure out how to free up the time. What block of time would I need exactly?

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

I would love to see how this duck hunting works. I bought some #2 waterfowl shot on Saturday but I'm still trying to figure out how to free up the time. What block of time would I need exactly?

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Ok. Morning hunts are:
On the water before sun rise.
( legal shooting time starts 1/2 hour
(before sun rise)
Off the water by 9 or 10.

Evening hunt is on the water in late afternoon.

Off water after dark( legal shooting ends 1/2 hour after sunset.)

If you want to come out and stay the night you'll just need a sleeping bag or some blankets and a mattress or pad to sleep on. There are tents to use.

Food and water etc.

You can come out for just a morning or evening hunt or hang out all weekend. What ever you can manage.

Do you work weekends?

1/2 an hour before sunrise, that might affect my beauty sleep. I won't look my best if there is some single hot woman wandering around the forest.

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

Ok. Morning hunts are:
On the water before sun rise.
( legal shooting time starts 1/2 hour
(before sun rise)
Off the water by 9 or 10.

Evening hunt is on the water in late afternoon.

Off water after dark( legal shooting ends 1/2 hour after sunset.)

If you want to come out and stay the night you'll just need a sleeping bag or some blankets and a mattress or pad to sleep on. There are tents to use.

Food and water etc.

You can come out for just a morning or evening hunt or hang out all weekend. What ever you can manage.

Do you work weekends?

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I don't work weekends. Domestic duties are my issue. Are you guys camping out both Friday and Saturday? Or do you guys just show up real early?

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

1/2 an hour before sunrise, that might affect my beauty sleep. I won't look my best if there is some single hot woman wandering around the forest.

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Not going to help. There is a reason they keep you away from clocks...and Cameras..

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

I don't work weekends. Domestic duties are my issue. Are you guys camping out both Friday and Saturday? Or do you guys just show up real early?

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We will be arriving on Thursday this week. On site all weekend, head off to another spot for the week and back for the next weekend. Leaving sunday the 6th for home.

Wow great news.

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Got me a grouse... If I wasn't so excited to get one, I probably would of gotten all three...

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I am in site all weekend from Fri Afternoon to Sunday morning, this week I will be on-site starting Thursday Evening with Snow Walker

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

I don't work weekends. Domestic duties are my issue. Are you guys camping out both Friday and Saturday? Or do you guys just show up real early?

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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.

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Originally Posted by line052

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.

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Tonight I am going to do an assessment of the domestic cost of joining you guys this weekend and will decide if I am willing to pay price or not. I would prefer to join you guys Friday night but I'll consider Saturday night as well.

Regardless this is my last overfilled weekend of the summer and starting next week my weekend scheduling will get easier...

Cheers

What does an "assessment of the domestic cost " mean exactly?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Tonight I am going to do an assessment of the domestic cost of joining you guys this weekend and will decide if I am willing to pay price or not. I would prefer to join you guys Friday night but I'll consider Saturday night as well.

Regardless this is my last overfilled weekend of the summer and starting next week my weekend scheduling will get easier...

Cheers

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At my house that would mean "get permission from the missus".

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

What does an "assessment of the domestic cost " mean exactly?

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Oh. Sorry. That is my terminology for me gauging how much I will have to repay my wife (i.e. suffer) later for making her do some of my chores so I can go hunting ...

HaHa. What happened to I’m going hunting dear.

That's what I say.

I wear the pants ��

OK well also buying the wife another used car any time now, but I don't have to.

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Originally Posted by Deer Hunter

HaHa. What happened to I’m going hunting dear.

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

That's what I say.

I wear the pants ��

OK well also buying the wife another used car any time now, but I don't have to.

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Ok, I'm in. I'll see you guys this weekend. Don't laugh at me if I show up with no pants and my wife's old car. She's driving my new truck...

Woman don't drive Trucks, only men!:shades::moose:

What time are people planning to be there this Friday Sept 25

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

What time are people planning to be there this Friday Sept 25

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On this Friday Sept 27th, I imagine I will arrive around 6:15pm I will try hard to improve that to maybe 5:45pm.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

What time are people planning to be there this Friday Sept 25

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12am....Friday morning. ;)

of course I have to drive through TO on Thursday, so it may be afternoon..:joker:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

That's what I say.

I wear the pants ��

OK well also buying the wife another used car any time now, but I don't have to.

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I’m ok as long as I don’t pass up Deer all week waiting for the BIG one only to come back home empty handed. Then I’m in big trouble, she wants venison in the freezer every year. Very demanding woman....haha. (Then I just get to go back..win win. ;))

As long as your not wearing a Skirt, (Ummm you don't wear skirts do you, oh sorry can't ask that in Trudeau's world :joker:)

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Ok, I'm in. I'll see you guys this weekend. Don't laugh at me if I show up with no pants and my wife's old car. She's driving my new truck...

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Logan and I hope to be out around 5:30 - 6 long enough to for a quick hunt. I will bring my canoe.

I will be on site tonight at about 5pm (Thursday) to set up new camp Friday and staying till Sunday Morning.

I wont be on the NET (as of 1400hrs Today) but can be reached by text or cell 613-863-5483

Update to Opener weekend

Great night Friday night with 8 hunters showing for opener morning. I was quiet with no rain as we set up Sat morning, not for long. Good opener many opportunities to shoot for the new and returning hunters. The rain was relentless and got off the water before 8AM. I did stay until 0915hrs and brought a few.

The rain let up enough to get in a road for grouse and rabbits and the group I took seen nothing but Bear scat, all over the roads that normally coyote scat laden. SnowWalker took out another new hunter to a different location and they managed to flush some grouse with no shot, because of the dense leaf cover.

GreatWhite got with his son out for some apprentice training and shooting - creating the next generations of hunters, I hope the young lad had fun. I could see and hear him shooting, but I didn't get to see them leave. John, it was great spending time around the fire with you.

Cool weekend at night which was great, couple of fires and always good food brought to the table. The coyotes are every present at night and the pack got close to camp Thurs night, enough for me to set off car alarm to scare them off.

Looks like it will be a good year.

Special thanks to SnowWalker and his wife for all the extra help around camp. Truly wonderful people to around.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

Update to Opener weekend

Great night Friday night with 8 hunters showing for opener morning. I was quiet with no rain as we set up Sat morning, not for long. Good opener many opportunities to shoot for the new and returning hunters. The rain was relentless and got off the water before 8AM. I did stay until 0915hrs and brought a few.

The rain let up enough to get in a road for grouse and rabbits and the group I took seen nothing but Bear scat, all over the roads that normally coyote scat laden. SnowWalker took out another new hunter to a different location and they managed to flush some grouse with no shot, because of the dense leaf cover.

GreatWhite got with his son out for some apprentice training and shooting - creating the next generations of hunters, I hope the young lad had fun. I could see and hear him shooting, but I didn't get to see them leave. John, it was great spending time around the fire with you.

Cool weekend at night which was great, couple of fires and always good food brought to the table. The coyotes are every present at night and the pack got close to camp Thurs night, enough for me to set off car alarm to scare them off.

Looks like it will be a good year.

Special thanks to SnowWalker and his wife for all the extra help around camp. Truly wonderful people to around.

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Thanks again to Line052 and SnowWalker for hosting me and my first experience pond hunting. Too bad I had to rush off so quickly on Sunday but in case you are wondering I was quite successful in fileting out two breasts, 2 legs and thights and one goose heart and I to my own disbelief, my wife even prepared and cooked it. Guess I'll have to go buy another box of waterfowl shells...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Thanks again to Line052 and SnowWalker for hosting me and my first experience pond hunting. Too bad I had to rush off so quickly on Sunday but in case you are wondering I was quite successful in fileting out two breasts, 2 legs and thights and one goose heart and I to my own disbelief, my wife even prepared and cooked it. Guess I'll have to go buy another box of waterfowl shells...

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You keep going like this, and maybe,....just maybe she'll let you wear pants. On Special occasions at least.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Snowwalker

You keep going like this, and maybe,....just maybe she'll let you wear pants. On Special occasions at least.

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LOL...

Did anyone else notice this weekend coming is Thanksgiving Weekend?????

HAHAH...you have been bitten...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SkyHawk

Thanks again to Line052 and SnowWalker for hosting me and my first experience pond hunting. Too bad I had to rush off so quickly on Sunday but in case you are wondering I was quite successful in fileting out two breasts, 2 legs and thights and one goose heart and I to my own disbelief, my wife even prepared and cooked it. Guess I'll have to go buy another box of waterfowl shells...

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Next week, Oct 14

Quote:

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Originally Posted by line052

Did anyone else notice this weekend coming is Thanksgiving Weekend?????

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It was a lot of fun. Thank you Mark, Mike and Karen for hosting and teaching us. Now that I tried the evening hunt, I will have to try the morning one as well some time. Too bad I can't stay overnight because of the kid. I guess I will just have to get up early and drive over, would arriving around 5 am be early enough?

If you want a coffee before the hunt 5 am, if not show up 0530hrs as we leave for the water at 0550 to get into position before legal light. Nice meeting you and Weh (not sure if I spelt right).

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MartinZ

It was a lot of fun. Thank you Mark, Mike and Karen for hosting and teaching us. Now that I tried the evening hunt, I will have to try the morning one as well some time. Too bad I can't stay overnight because of the kid. I guess I will just have to get up early and drive over, would arriving around 5 am be early enough?

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And yes two weeks until thanksgiving. I will be out this weekend (4,5,6 Oct), but not next.

BTT, heading out again this weekend. New 8 man tent instead of the failed tarp tent I made. Gonna be cold so dress warm and have some good gloves. Good news is colder weather gets the birds flying and leaves are dropping like crazy so it should open the forest for better Grouse/Rabbit hunting.
Saturday and Sunday look good for sunshine, but will be cold at night so dress accordingly. Have a good pair of gloves and long underwear for the ponds, or a nice set of Bid overalls.

See you out there.

Huge thanks and shout out to Mark. Great time and learned a lot. I plan to attempt to carry this forward.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Your welcome, great fun.

Just a reminder, I am NOT out this weekend for thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving, Mark.

SO ducks are done on the ponds and I am away the 2-3 Nov. Only one more weekend left to help those for deer before rifle season starts.

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Originally Posted by line052

SO ducks are done on the ponds and I am away the 2-3 Nov. Only one more weekend left to help those for deer before rifle season starts.

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No duck hunting this weekend? Wow, season goes by fast... What will you be doing this weekend? Are you going out Friday?

I'm also surprised to hear that the ducks are gone! Have the puddle ducks at Marlborough already started heading south? I've still been seeing lots of mallards around the Crystal Beach area.

He said done not gone. He is getting geared up for deer. Hard to put guys in duck blinds, and deer stand at the same time for one guy.

Misunderstanding on my part no disrespect meant. Hope everyone has a great deer season! Hats of to Mark for showing people the ropes.

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Originally Posted by BigLenny

Misunderstanding on my part no disrespect meant. Hope everyone has a great deer season! Hats of to Mark for showing people the ropes.

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No problem, my interpretation could be wrong too.

No they are all done except for the occasional stragglers, was hoping for more Northern Migrations, but nada. Geese are still making flights, and yes only next weekend before I am gone on 2-3 Nov in Ajax for Party Leadership Convention where I hope to be elected as Leader. I will be doing day trips and meet ups this weekend for small game and deer scouting for those who wish to join me.

Meeting spot will be the same camp. The ponds might still produce birds, but only one weekend to help out for scouting, signs training and try to locate some better areas. Last weekend we went prime location but because of the dry conditions, the swamp edges are not traveled at all. The old weathered trails are there (literally foot paths), but no recent activity. Over the last few days we have got lots of rain, so I am hoping these natural barriers will force the deer back into those traditional routes and areas.

Last night I took out an apprentice hunter on a local river and spent 3 hours in the "pouring..buckets" rain. The good news was the Northern Mallards are in this waterway and the shooting was good (didn't connect). Was shivering uncontrollable when I left the water, despite being dressed for the weather..the apprentice had no such affect with excitement and adrenaline pumping the whole time. (so great to see the passion).

Still have to buy a deer tag myself..life is so busy.

Pushed my luck in rain, sick as a dog. Not sure if I will be getting at all this weekend.

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Originally Posted by line052

Pushed my luck in rain, sick as a dog. Not sure if I will be getting at all this weekend.

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Oh no! Get some rest...

Mark - Good luck this weekend (I know you won’t be on the pond)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

You do realize your not 20 anymore.

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Originally Posted by greatwhite

You do realize your not 20 anymore.

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He may know, but that does not mean he has accept it...

Hey there line052!

I was wondering if you were gonna be offering your mentoring program this year? I'd love to learn some tips and tricks when it comes to hunting!

Thanks,
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