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April 29th, 2021, 07:57 AM
#1
Didn't pull the Trigger
Went out hunting yesterday. I was walking the dogs at 7:30 and it was so nice out, I just had to.
In my pop-up at 8:03.
Sat till 8:12 then decided to use the box call and get things rolling. As turned to pick it up, I happened to look out the side window and two nice sized Jakes were standing there, less than 10 yds. NOT a sound was made by them, not so much as a cluck.
I slowly pull the gun into my shoulder and put the bead on one of their heads.
I was about to fill the tag and then I stopped and lowered the gun. The realisation that I could end the spring hunt with less than 10 minutes of hunting didn't feel right.
So I let them pass, another small group went by about 30 minutes later. I sat for another hour and decided to scratch out a few calls. After about 45 minutes the 1st two Jakes came by again. I let them wander away, again, packed up and came home.
With 30+ days of hunting still ahead, there really is no need to fill the tag so soon. Lots of beautiful mornings ahead to enjoy the tranquillity of sitting in the bush watching nature. I also have access to a buddy's property, for a change of scenery, so I can head over there some days.
Being retired I can go anytime I want to, without the restriction of work etc. So why not take advantage of that.
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April 29th, 2021 07:57 AM
# ADS
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April 29th, 2021, 08:17 AM
#2
So very true Mikepal 3 more years for me. Then i can enjoy the slow time. Enjoy every minute.
Never resent growing old, Many do not get the chance.
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April 29th, 2021, 08:40 AM
#3
After not coming close last year, I didn't pass on anything this year.
I can spend the nice spring weather cutting wood now.
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April 29th, 2021, 10:35 AM
#4

Originally Posted by
werner.reiche
After not coming close last year, I didn't pass on anything this year.
I learned that lesson with deer, actually at least 10x by now
Always shot the first viable target..it may be your last chance. HaHa.
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April 29th, 2021, 10:45 AM
#5
If I was retired and had access to property anytime I wanted then I would of most likely made the same decision. 30 days of hunting to someone working is a dream. I’m lucky if I get four Saturdays lol
"Give a man a fish and he eats for a day, Teach a man to fish and he eats for the rest of his life"
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April 29th, 2021, 11:16 AM
#6
That’s what is great about hunting, you call the shots.
Just sucks to regret it later.....lol

Good Luck
"Only dead fish go with the flow."
Proud Member: CCFR, CSSA, OFAH, NFA.
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April 29th, 2021, 11:39 AM
#7

Originally Posted by
MikePal
Went out hunting yesterday. I was walking the dogs at 7:30 and it was so nice out, I just had to.
In my pop-up at 8:03.
Sat till 8:12 then decided to use the box call and get things rolling. As turned to pick it up, I happened to look out the side window and two nice sized Jakes were standing there, less than 10 yds. NOT a sound was made by them, not so much as a cluck.
I slowly pull the gun into my shoulder and put the bead on one of their heads.
I was about to fill the tag and then I stopped and lowered the gun. The realisation that I could end the spring hunt with less than 10 minutes of hunting didn't feel right.
So I let them pass, another small group went by about 30 minutes later. I sat for another hour and decided to scratch out a few calls. After about 45 minutes the 1st two Jakes came by again. I let them wander away, again, packed up and came home.
With 30+ days of hunting still ahead, there really is no need to fill the tag so soon. Lots of beautiful mornings ahead to enjoy the tranquillity of sitting in the bush watching nature. I also have access to a buddy's property, for a change of scenery, so I can head over there some days.
Being retired I can go anytime I want to, without the restriction of work etc. So why not take advantage of that.
Just buy another tag !!
I usually take a jake first, and let the gobblers pass until the last week or so of season.
Last edited by rick_iles; April 29th, 2021 at 11:49 AM.
“If you’re not a Liberal by twenty, you have no heart. If you’re not a Conservative by forty, you have no brain.”
-Winston Churchill
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April 29th, 2021, 11:56 AM
#8

I did the same thing this morning. 2 toms went by at 15 yards, took a picture instead. I'm down to 1 tag as it is.
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April 29th, 2021, 01:08 PM
#9

Originally Posted by
rick_iles
Just buy another tag !!
I usually take a jake first, and let the gobblers pass until the last week or so of season.
Jakes have been my preferred choice for many years..14-18 pounds is a perfect size for 2 people for a couple of meals. So the guy I had the bead on perfect....just wanted more than 10 minutes out of the season
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April 29th, 2021, 01:16 PM
#10

Originally Posted by
MikePal
Jakes have been my preferred choice for many years..14-18 pounds is a perfect size for 2 people for a couple of meals. So the guy I had the bead on perfect....just wanted more than 10 minutes out of the season

Just buy another tag......or have you filled one already ...
“If you’re not a Liberal by twenty, you have no heart. If you’re not a Conservative by forty, you have no brain.”
-Winston Churchill