2013 1st Quarter Newsletter - Safari Club International Austin Chapter

Transcription

2013 1st Quarter Newsletter - Safari Club International Austin Chapter
PR
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First For Hunters And Fisherman In The Texas Hill Country
PULLOUT PREVIEW SECTION
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Save the date!
Fri Jan 20
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Our Seventh Annual Hunters' Heritage Banquet will be held on Friday, January
20, 2012 at The Renaissance Hotel in Austin, Texas. We will be using the funds
raised to further conservation, humanitarian and educational programs on local,
as well as national and international levels. We will be hosting both a Live and
Silent Auction, raffles and Backwards Bingo to help us reach our target goal of
$100,000. The following is a summary of our raffle and live auction items at
press time. For further information and ticket orders please visit our website at
sciaustin.org. and view the auction catalog. Items are updated/added daily.
The offerings shown here are, as always, subject to changes, additions and/or deletions. Check the
program on the night of the event for the final line-up details.
www.sciaustin.org
‘STARRING’ IN THIS
ISSUE!
Archery Workshop _____________________________ pg 1
Your Board of Directors ________________________ pg 2
Calendar of Events
Events _____________________________ pg 2
President’s Message ___________________________ pg 2
AWLS - July 2011 _______________________________ pg 3
The Season Winds Down _______________________
_______________________ pg 5
A Few African Photos ___________________________ pg 6
The Mountain Lion Didn’t Matter Anymore _____ pg 7
My Hunting Life ________________________________ pg 8
Texas Youth Hunting Program & Hunter Ed ___ pg 9
My First Buck _________________________________ pg 10
Luck of the Draw _____________________________ pg 11
KOZ National Hunting and Fishing Day _______ pg 12
Impacting the Future of Hunting _____________ pg 13
Thanks to Our Sponsors _____________________ pg 14
2011 SCI Austin Family Picnic ________________ pg 16
Hunting Gemsbok in Namibia _________________ pg 18
A Winning Mindset ____________________________ pg 20
Potential New Record (SCI) Bow Kill Elk ______ pg 21
Porcine Pursuits ______________________________ pg 23
ARCHERY
WORKSHOP
by Larry Hassell
TO A LARGE EXTENT we can attribute the current
interest in archery to Fred Bear, Saxon Pope, Howard Hill,
Ben Pearson, and others in past generations who taught us
that we can find pleasure in using a simpler or more
challenging tool to enhance the experience we get from our
outdoor activities. While there is a segment of our hunting
community who seek out the latest high tech development
in electronics and firearms to ensure the success of their
quest, we have others who have chosen to limit their
advantages for a quieter, closer encounter with the natural
world.
Of course, technology has certainly taken its course with
archery equipment, making the latest bows and accessories
easier to use, more efficient, and more effective than
anything Fred Bear could have imagined. A recent trip to
Archery Country on Research Blvd. revealed a new
generation of bows that are more compact, quieter, faster,
and easier to shoot than bows from even a few years back.
Just as a latest generation refrigerator is far more efficient
than even a model from 10 years ago, the new bows
Albert Hasty lines them up
see Archery Workshop on page 4
CALENDAR OF
EVENTS
PRESIDENT’S
MESSAGE
To have your next event listed e-mail your information to
[email protected] or fax to 512-448-2706.
by Larry Hassell
Upcoming Events:
TUESDAY, JANUARY 3: Board meeting
FRIDAY, JANUARY 20: Hunters' Heritage Banquet (for
further details, including raffle and auction items up for
grabls, see the special pull out section).
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7: Board meeting
TUESDAY, MARCH 6: Board meeting
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14: General meeting (speaker to
be announced)
TUESDAY, APRIL 3: Board meeting
TUESDAY, MAY 1: Board meeting
WEDNESDAY, MAY 9: General meeting (speaker to be
announced) O
AS I WRITE THIS we have just set a new weather record
in Austin of 90 days in one year (2011) of “triple digit” high
temperatures. Frankly, although I have lived in Texas my
entire life, I have never enjoyed our sweltering summers.
The good news is that Texas summers are followed by the
most important time of year for the outdoorsman. Texans
are blessed with a myriad of opportunities to spend time
outdoors pursuing a broad range of species and our long
hunting seasons come during what I consider the best
weather of the year.
Although many of us concentrate on chasing the
ubiquitous whitetail deer, there are many other species to
bring variety to our experiences. Two close friends, one a
teenager, harvested alligators this fall. Another friend
began his fall with a teal hunt. Many take advantage
throughout the year of the incredible assortment of exotic
game that exists in many parts of the state. Another “exotic”,
the feral hog, provides low cost sport and great eating. How
long has it been since you have taken the time to bag a few
cottontail rabbits or enough squirrels to make dinner? I'll
bet most of us spent a box or two of shot shells on a
September dove hunt.
No matter our favorite target species, whether we hunt
nearby or travel the globe, whether we are upland hunters,
waterfowl hunters, big game hunters or small game hunters,
we are, first of all, hunters. As members of Safari Club
International, whether you take afield with a favorite double
shotgun, a .22 rifle, a bow, a handgun, or a centerfire rifle,
we are hunters and are united in the fight to protect the
hunting heritage and to conserve our natural resources so
that future generations can know the joy we share in the
outdoors. Take pride in your membership and take time to
share your experiences with others. We need more hunters
to join the fight for our right to hunt. SCI is “First for
Hunters”! O
Larry Hassell, President
Support your local SCI Chapter
by promoting your business here!
Become a newsletter sponsor
by calling Stephanie at
512-694-0387 or e-mail
[email protected]
AWLS - JULY 2011
by Jan Allred
WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS the multitude of amazing
experiences I enjoyed at SCI Wilderness Leadership School,
this past summer, but I'll try. I left Texas temperatures of 104
and record setting drought conditions, excitedly anticipating
AWLS. The pilot announced, “Prepare for landing” so I
glued my eyes to the tiny airplane window. I saw snowy
mountains coming closer and soon could see the tiny
runway, right alongside them. I arrived Jackson, Wyoming
to find the temperature to be in the thirties! This is amazing,
I thought to myself. The week of adventures to come would
prove to be just that!
The fun began in the van with Rob at the wheel. I knew
immediately that I connected with him, as he had a story and
laughs for every topic. The passengers were friendly and
talking too. Soon I felt a part of the group and we were only
on the VAN. I almost found myself saying out loud, “Is this
great or what?!” We made a few VERY IMPORTANT stops,
then onto the bumpy, slippery trek alongside the fierce Wind
River. By now I've also come to understand that unlike the
heat and droughts back in Texas, Jackson was having a
record setting year for precipitation.
The already
treacherous road was now muddy and the rivers high, fast
and furious! Rob reassured everyone on the van with stories
detailing the number of wrecks, fatalities, moose attacks
and an explanation about “right of way” on the rugged
country road. But alas, a few wildlife spottings and more
laughs made the trip almost a pleasure, with a few thrills to
boot. I arrived at the beautiful lodge already awestruck.
After unpacking, a soon to be familiar bell clanged, everyone
assured me I would delight in the cuisine, while others
scurried quickly yelling "LUNCH!" Sure enough, plenty of
delicious, homemade soups were served up like bowls of
warm welcome and comfort. Fellow students chimed in,
that I should check any diet plans at the door.
Wildlife,
snow, mountains, glorious food, fun folks and this beautiful
lodge!! Could it get any better?
Well, mornings came early and bedtimes late at AWLS.
“You can rest when you get home,” I heard from the staff.
They were right, the week would be filled with so much
learning and outdoor activity. I didn't want to miss a thing. I
had busy days ahead including lecture classes with a
professor from Penn State, nature walks, wildlife
conservation talks/walks filling my brain with information
and many questions. As the week evolved, it was apparent
that the questions and answers varied, but that the
THINKING was in fact much of the goal for the week. I also
learned in the outdoors through visits to Yellowstone and
Natural gas fields as well as right IN the Wind River.
Thankfully, they had my exact size in waders and I only fell
down twice. I became knowledgeable in the puzzles of
Wildlife and Land Conservation issues. I discovered that
these issues affect everyone and everything on this Planet.
It can be political, spiritual, moral, controversial and VERY
complicated. Still, a task well worth the undertaking and
consideration for the young citizens that I teach, back in
Texas.
A few more highlights of the week were learning to tie my
own flies for fishing, and to measure the flow rate in the river
(in those perfectly attractive, well fitting pair of waders).
Sharing lessons and LAUGHS with fellow teachers/campers
and braving one of those raging rivers previously
mentioned, in a raft! Only pictures can explain the rafting
experience! I threw a hatchet at a Target (sort of) shot with
ALL KINDS OF FIREARMS! YAHOO!
Did I mention late
night games and fun with all my new friends? Just when I
thought I was exhausted, all I had to hear was “we're getting
together later” ….. and I was there! I learned a few things
about myself too. Like how far a five mile hike up a
mountain with a thousand feet MORE elevation can be, and
how old I felt when Ben ran back and forth from the front of
the hikers all the way to the back. What an exhausting, fun
filled week it was. All the staff was awesome, with extra
patience too.
Last but certainly not least, a HUGE THANK YOU goes to
the SCI Austin Chapter. It was with their FULL sponsorship
that I was blessed with the opportunity to learn and
experience so much in the beautiful Mountains of Wyoming.
I took home a wealth of information and skills. This
experience has inspired me to
explore outdoor education
opportunities for students in
Dripping Springs. I have already
had eager colleagues asking
how to apply!
THANK YOU, THANK YOU,
THANK YOU!!
Sincerely,
Cheryl Allred Sped Teacher
Dripping Springs Elementary
O
Archery Workshop continued
Steve Pack and Jeff Ganze
instruct their charges
Steve offers some
hands on help to a
future champion
incorporate the latest computer designed limbs and risers,
fabricated with space age composites, to bring a new level of
accuracy and efficiency (speed!) to the modern archer.
Archery has seen astronomical growth in recent years.
The Archery Trade Association reports, “Approximately 9
million people shoot archery in the U.S. annually”. Bows
come in models
Getting started
designed for target
shooting or for bow
hunting. The latest
generation of
compound bows is
adaptable to any
physique, gender, or
age.
Traditional
archers stick to
familiar longbow or
recurve limb
designs, many of
which are enhanced
with modern
materials and
designs that improve
portability and
performance.
On September
17, SCI Austin was
hosted by Hill
Country Bowhunters at their beautiful oak studded range
near Leander, Texas. Participants were given brief directions
regarding safety and provided basic instruction in shooting
That’s one enthusiastic participant!
a bow. Participating in the morning event were SCI Austin
members, invited guests from Kid's Outdoor Zone, and
several members of a local Girl Scout troop. The excited
archers were given instruction on standard bulls-eye target
butts and then were given an opportunity to work the
wooded circuit of 3D targets, strategically placed by our
hosts to present real hunting scenarios. Foam elk, deer,
bear, pronghorn, and sheep, and hog were targeted by our
group of aspiring archers. No doubt some of those new
archers will some day be in the field on an actual bow hunt.
Taking careful aim
We extend our sincere thanks to Hill Country
Bowhunters president, Steve Pack and the other HCB
members, Albert Hasty, and Jeff Ganze (certified instructor),
who made this fun event possible. Their patient instruction
was evidence of the passion they each hold for their sport
and their interest in bringing more people into the archery
world.
For more information about Hill Country
Bowhunters you may visit their website at
www.hillcountrybowhunters.com
www.hillcountrybowhunters.com..
It is also appropriate to thank Mike Luckie, general
m a n a g e r o f A r c h e r y C o u n t r y ,
www.austinarcherycountry.com
www.austinarcherycountry.com,, for introducing SCI
Austin to Hill Country Bowhunters. Archery Country has a
beautiful new shop at 8121
Research Blvd. that features a
Allen Hansen helps out
complete inventory of quality
archery equipment and supplies,
as well as a spacious indoor
range. Be forewarned, a visit to
Archery Country will likely spark
an interest in replacing your old
bow or finding a new bow to
begin your own archery
experience. I think one of those
new Z7 Mathews bows could be in
my future! O
Carving the ribs for ...
... the workshop lunch
THE SEASON
WINDS DOWN
by Richard Welch
T
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he season winds down and I haven’t a deer
I have nothing to show for this long year
Yet I remember the sunsets and the fresh morning de
I raise my arms to the sky and give thanks to you.
he season winds down and I haven’t a deer
Why, I can tell you, the reason is clear
I let the young ones walk, they’ll be bigger next year
The season winds down and I shed not a tear
he season winds down, I have a smile on my face
I’ve been hunting deer on my own little place
It may not be large, it may not be grand
But this is where I make my last stand.
he season winds down, I’m sad and I’m blue
I didn’t get my deer, Why ?, I haven’t a clue
This was the year I expected to get my due
I forgot my Lord, no one’s mightier than you.
s I unload my gun at the end of the season
I have no deer, there must be a reason
In your hands Lord, I place my hope
Maybe next year, you’ll put a deer in my scope.
he season winds down, I say a prayer out loud
I pursued my quarry with honor, of that I am proud
I followed my heart and spent the year outside
Thank you Lord, for being my guide.
s I clean my gun to ward off the rust
I say a small prayer and in you I place trust
I’ll be back next year, it wasn’t my time
God willing, God bless, glory is thine.
A FEW AFRICAN
PHOTOS
by Rene Barrientos
I HUNTED IN MOZAMBIQUE with Zambeze Delta
Safaris. I booked the hunt through Global Hunting Network
in Dripping Springs and with my now good friend, Russell
Selle. My hunt started August 1, 2011 and completed
August 12, 2011. I shot 19 animals and had the time of my
life. My PH was Julian Moller, who has guided for Zambeze
Delta Safaris since 1995. The experience was second to
none. The accommodations were pretty cool. We stayed in
the forest. There were no roads, no cars, and I didn't see
anyone other than the staff and natives the whole time I was
there. It was truly a bush experience. If you haven't been to
Africa you need to go. It will change your life forever! O
THE MOUNTAIN
LION DIDN’T
MATTER ANYMORE
by Danny Dietrich
I HAD BEEN HUNTING with Darrell Welty, the owner of
Limestone Outfitters, in Winston, New Mexico, for several
years. I had managed to take elk with rifle, muzzleloader
and bow, as well as a book mule deer with a muzzleloader.
David, Darrell's son, had guided on several of those hunts
and we had spent many hours in the field together. It was
there that I learned of David's real passion, mountain lion
hunting with his dogs. We talked long and hard about
getting me on one of these hunts, but, being that they are
conducted from horse back, and I am by no means
considered a small person, I joking told David to call when
he got an animal that would haul me around the hills, as he
called them.
Imagine my surprise when I got that call. David was
excited on the telephone, as he let me know he had
purchased a pair of saddle broke draft mules, Bud and Spud,
that could easily handle hauling me. So I was on my way.
I arrived at David's home on May 9th, 2003, ready to go.
I unpacked my things in the bunkhouse and got things ready
for the next morning's hunt. David, Jack, (the wrangler), and
I left the corral the next morning at 5:00 a.m. We were to
meet up with David's wife, Anaka, at the head of the ranch
road we would take into the mountains. We bounced along
what they called a road until almost daylight, with the stock
trailer loaded with the 2 mules, 2 horses and the dogs. We
finally stopped at an old sheepherders corral and unloaded.
The plan I learned was simple. David would take the dogs
and make a big loop out from the truck hoping to strike a
track. The rest of us would do the same only on a smaller
loop. If the dogs struck a promising trail we would go to
them, if not we would all meet back at the truck at dark.
I was to ride Spud, Jack would ride Bud and Anaka would
ride one of the horses. I must have looked pretty green,
while I have ridden horses many times, this animal was
massive. I would have to find a rock or stump just to mount
up.
All went well through the morning. We travelled many
miles without luck, finding no sign of a lion. After a trail
lunch we were headed thru a real small, tight rock canyon
when my hunt suddenly changed. Jack was in the lead on
Bud, when one of the young dogs that had come back to us
from the pack nipped Bud as they went thru a tight spot in
the canyon. Bud erupted into a pro rodeo class bucking
bronco. I would have given Bud high marks if I was judging
but not so high for Jack. When the dust settled Jack was flat
on his back in the middle of the canyon. I had my hands full
keeping my mule under control and getting down off him.
When I finished tying him up and turned Jack had just
managed to get to a sitting position. Having been a
registered nurse for 30 years it was easy to tell Jack was hurt.
As I made my way to Jack, a quick assessment showed his
left shoulder was dislocated. He had cuts and scrapes all
over his head and shoulders and the growing blood spot
coming thru his insulated blue jean jacket was in need of
immediate attention. Anaka went on to try and catch the
Danny and his mule
mule and call David on the radio to inform him of our
situation. I managed to get Jack up against the canyon wall
and take his coat off. His elbow on the side where his
shoulder was dislocated was split wide open and an artery
was bleeding. I used paper towels from my saddlebag and
Jack's bandana to make a pressure bandage. Further
assessment showed Jack had several large bumps coming
up on his head and he couldn't remember hitting the
ground. Anaka returned with more bad news she was
unable to catch Jack's mule and that David was on his way,
but the terrain between us meant at least 2 to 3 hours before
he could get there. Anaka and I argued over her taking Jack
and going back to the truck and I would wait on David, No
way! She would not leave me there. I was the client, she
would stay and I would go with Jack. As we argued, with me
losing the battle, it started snowing. I mean really snowing!
We managed to get Jack's coat draped back on him and up
on Anaka's horse so he and I could start the ride out. We
would be walking our horses and when David got to Anaka
they would come out as fast as they could. We were to take
the extra truck and go on if they did not catch up to us. Jack
was in terrible pain and we had at least 10 miles crosscountry to the truck. We rode as fast as Jack could take it,
but it was slow going, and the blows to Jack's head were
really starting to affect him. We stopped after 2 hours and let
Jack get down and rest. Luckily, having hunted in the area
for several years, and with Jack's guidance, I was finally able
Sure-footed transport
see Mountain Lion on page 8
MY HUNTING LIFE
by Byron Kibby
I BEGAN MY LIFETIME PASSION FOR HUNTING at
age five when my father, Leo Kibby, presented me with a
Daisy BB gun as a Christmas gift. I spent untold hours
shooting at empty cans, knots in pine lumber and many
other objects that caught my eye. I still vividly recall a
successful shot I made when my dad took my uncle J.B.'s
straw hat, threw it in the air, and I somehow managed to
shoot a hole in it. Both my uncle and dad congratulated me
profusely for the fine (lucky) shot. That hat was my first real
trophy.
For my 10th birthday I received a single shot Winchester
model 37 .401 shotgun, which I still own today. I was now
ready for the big time. Growing up in California, my father
provided hunting opportunities for dove, quail, ducks and
pheasant. The enjoyment and excitement of being in the
great outdoors became embedded in my spirit and has
thrived ever since. I was 26 before my hunting horizons
expanded to big game. My fist hunt was near Marfa, Texas
for desert mule deer. The camaraderie I experienced with
friends and fellow hunters around the campfire at night and
observing the thousands of stars overhead and rehashing
our successes or missed opportunities of the day sealed
permanently the direction of my hunting focus for the future,
North American big game.
Over the years I have had the opportunity to hunt big
game in Colorado, New Mexico, Montana, Idaho, Alaska,
Alberta, British Columbia, and the Yukon. All of the hunts
were memorable and enjoyable; however, the ones which
remain etched foremost in my mind were the outdoor
adventures into the most remote and rugged wildernesses.
Throughout the prime of my hunting years, I maintained
physical fitness throughout the year by running, climbing
stadium stairs at the local football field and doing 300 situps at a time. During my hunts, I could climb the highest
peaks, maneuver through tag alder and traverse lodge pole
blow downs without being limited by exhaustion. I could
hunt hard every day without taking a day off to recuperate.
Thus, I could maximize my exposure to all the exciting sights
and sounds that only the pristine wilderness can provide.
Enjoying the solitude of remote hunting locations, often 3540 miles from the closest road, provided opportunities to
observe nature as few do. Sitting high on a mountainside in
the Selway of Idaho, listening to elk bugle in the timber far
below me will never be forgotten.
Another rich memory of the Selway was sitting on the rim
of Jim's Basin, the day before elk season began and glassing
a black bear a mile or so away as it swam to the middle of a
small lake, climbed upon a fallen lodge pole pine tree and
walked out of the lake. These rare glimpses of nature are
the pinnacle examples of what make big game hunting so
very special to me. Over the course of 35 years I have
hunted a lot but not shot a lot. More times than not, I have
returned without firing a shot. I learned after my first two or
three years of big game hunting that the opportunity to
harvest a mature trophy could not be achieved if I
succumbed to the temptation of harvesting a lesser animal.
In my pursuit of North American big game, I have
harvested seven varieties of animals. My trophies include
Rock Mountain elk, black bear, grizzly bear, mule deer,
whitetail deer, Dall sheep and pronghorn. I have never
hunted in Africa or other continents. My excitement for
exploring the remote wilderness of North America has never
abated and I have had no desire to dilute the great
wilderness adventures that present themselves here. I will
continue to traverse this great continent as long as I am
physically able. O
Support your local SCI Chapter
by promoting your business here!
Become a newsletter sponsor
by calling Stephanie at
512-694-0387 or e-mail
[email protected]
Mountain Lion continued
to get a bearing on a fence line that would take us back to the
truck. Jack wasn't sure he could get back on the horse with
his shoulder hurting as bad as it was. In an effort to stabilize
his shoulder some more, I took the liner out of my coat and
folded it up and slid it under his armpit. Then I took some
para-cord out of my saddlebag and “tied” Jack up, so his arm
would quit bouncing up and down as he rode. Now, back on
our mounts, we finally made it to the truck. I got Jack inside
to warm up and I put the horses in the corral. We then
started the long bumpy ride back down the mountain. Jack
is hands down one of the toughest men I have ever known.
From accident to the hospital was well over 6 hours and he
stayed awake enough to tell the doctor at the hospital in
Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, who was calling to find
a nurse to come help him, that I was a nurse who could help
him pull his shoulder back in place.
I did not get a lion on that trip, not because of Jack. We
hunted hard for another 10 days, just no lion. I did return a
few weeks later for a second round at a lion, and there was
Jack. He was still not 100% but he was ready to go. Bud was
retired, but I rode Spud, and had no problems. I did finally
get a lion, but the real experience was getting Jack off that
mountain. O
Treed cat
TEXAS YOUTH HUNTING
PROGRAM AND
HUNTER EDUCATION
by Doug DuBois, Jr.
THE 2011-2012 HUNTING SEASON has just kicked off
with the opening of dove season. We are looking forward to
early teal season, followed closely with archery season, then
the general deer season with the special youth weekend one
week prior to that opening, and finally, the black powder
season. What a wonderful time of year!
As we prepare for the season, volunteer Huntmasters
with the Texas Youth Hunting Program (TYHP) are visiting
with landowners to evaluate the impact of the drought and
heat of this past summer on their deer herd. The outcome
of the evaluation will help determine if they can host a youth
hunt. Selective hunting assists them with their wildlife
management plan by harvesting the desired species, in
order to maintain balance in their wildlife herd.
Roughly 75% of the hunts conducted by the TYHP are for
whitetail doe. We like to call them “Trophy Doe,” which is not
an exaggeration. The youth who participate in the hunts are
grateful for the opportunity to HUNT, period! They enjoy the
opportunity to be outdoors with an adult mentor.
TYHP is dedicated to preserving the hunting heritage
many of us were blessed to be raised with. In today's society,
youth don't have the opportunity to explore the woods,
prairies and creek beds with their favorite .22 or .410,
hunting rabbits, squirrels or frogs. They don't have the
access to land the way many of us did as we grew up in the
country.
TYHP is all about SAFETY, our number one priority, while
our number one objective is to have FUN! By instilling a
sense of responsibility and safety in our youth at a very
young age, it becomes second nature.
How do we instill responsibility and safety in our youth as
well as our adult hunting population? Hunter Education.
All youth who participate in TYHP, from ages 9 17, are
required to be certified through a Hunter Education course.
In many cases, we find the parent or accompanying adult
has not been a hunter for very long, if at all, and it is mutually
beneficial for them to take the 10-hour course together.
Texas Hunter Education, a valuable tool of the Texas
Parks & Wildlife Department, states its purpose is: to
produce safe, responsible, knowledgeable and
involved hunters and shooters
shooters..
Goals include:
• Promote firearm, sporting arm and hunting safety
• Promote hunting ethics and compliance with hunting
regulations
• Combat poaching
• Promote wise use of sustainable resources and
outdoor landscape
• Enhance hunting traditions and values.
Benefits include:
• Reduction of hunting accidents
• Reduction of hunting violations
• Enhancement of outdoor behaviors
• Continuation of the hunting heritage.
That last benefit sounds familiar, doesn't it?
To become a volunteer Hunter Education Instructor, the
first step is to complete the basic Hunter Education course.
For a 50+ year old who had been hunting for over 40 years, I
thought it would be a breeze to complete the course.
Besides, at 10 years old, I had completed an NRA Gun
Safety Course … what could have been added? A lot!!!
There is much more to Hunter Education than the top four
gun safety commandments:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Point muzzle in a safe direction
Treat every firearm as if it were loaded
Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot
Be sure of your target and what is in front of and
beyond
The Hunter Education course is just that
an
EDUCATION. Firearm safety is a large part of the course, but
so is a discussion of the difference between conservation
and preservation; we teach funding conservation efforts
across the country, as well as the need for hunting and
fishing regulations to protect and preserve wildlife
resources and their habitat. Above all, we work to instill
gratitude and responsibility in students, both young and old.
We also make students aware of the Stages of Hunter
Development:
• Shooting Stage - working on accuracy and efficiency,
rather than just taking numerous shots
• Limiting Out Stage - attempting to take all that is
allowed during each outing
• Trophy Stage - focusing on quality over quantity
• Method Stage - experiencing the challenge of
archery or how the animal is taken
• Sportsman Stage - measuring the total experience
and sharing it with companions
• Mentor Stage - become a mentor, Hunter Education
instructor, TYHP Huntmaster
If you find yourself in the last category and need an
outlet, feel free to contact me about getting involved with
TYHP and contact TPWD regarding Hunter Education
Instructor workshops. O
Doug DuBois, Jr. is an SCI Austin member, TYHP Huntmaster and Area Coordinator for
Area 9 (Heart of Texas Area) with the Texas Youth Hunting Program, can be contacted at
512-826-2472 or via email at [email protected]; the Texas Parks and Wildlife
Department website for Hunter Education can be found at:
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/learning/hunter_education.
MY FIRST BUCK
by Drew Miles
EVERY YEAR my dad and I go to Nebraska to hunt. It is
the one chance per year that I get to see family that lives
there. The sixteen-hour car ride was easy, especially this
year as my Aunt Diane went along. We stay with Aunt Ethel,
who I am now a foot taller. She is one of those sweet old
ladies who is constantly taking care of you, baking, making
you comfortable, etc. Although we stay with our Aunt Ethel
we spent most of our time at our cousin Chad's deer camp.
This year I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I would be
gunning for my first buck.
Saturday morning was our first day to hunt. I was filled
with anticipation, however, it was really cold and my feet felt
frozen. My dad, being the good father he is, forgoes hunting
and took me back to warm my feet. Long after we were back
at the cabin, and my feet were warm, we headed into town to
eat at a local place called
Cattails (I lucked out at not
having to eat a sandwich at
the cabin). Later that day, I
was back in the blind with
my dad, again filled with
excitement. Sadly we saw
nothing. Sunday was a
new day and a new
attitude.
Today I was
determined I would see a
buck. In the blind with my
dad, I got my first look. I
got on my knees and
aimed for the buck.
However victory was with
the wind as my shot was
unsuccessful. I returned
to the camp in a sullen
mood, which was quickly
abated by shooting blue
rock (clay targets) with my
cousin Brittany.
Monday I felt the tides were changing as I headed to a
new blind with my cousin Chad. There was an open spot that
I just had this feeling I would get my buck at and I stated this
feeling to Chad. The morning went on and we saw several
deer, but no bucks were shootable. Later that evening I was
at a different blind but back with my dad. The sun was
coming down fast when I finally saw a buck. Unfortunately it
turned just as I pulled the trigger. My hopes were shattered
as I missed my second buck in two days. Dejected I returned
to the cabin. Later that night we headed to Cousin Danny's
where we had a smorgasbord of food and I spent time with
my younger cousins.
The next morning I was back in the same blind with Chad
with a renewed confidence. Being tired from the previous
day's event, I checked with Chad then took a small nap with
the promise that if a deer became visible Chad would
awaken me. Several deer appeared and he quickly alerted
me. In a flash I was up, gloves off, and ready to take aim. We
saw several doe and bucks but they were never close
enough to take aim at. Finally the moment came where a
buck was in range. I got on my knees took aim and fired. He
ran right into the open spot I had remarked on yesterday and
I took my second shot. He dropped. After a high five and
congratulations from Chad, I immediately called my dad,
but I was so rushed with adrenalin that initially my dad was
concerned. After telling him what had happened, and
having assurance from Chad that the buck would be safe, we
went back to get the camera. On the way I called my mom
who stunned me by agreeing to let me mount my deer. My
dad met us at the cabin and back we went for photo ops.
After many pictures the three of us used all efforts to lift the
9-point monster of a buck onto the four- wheeler. Back at
the cabin when we were gutting the deer, my dad smeared a
stroke of blood on each cheek, supposedly a tradition on
getting your first buck, and then we tagged the deer. While
there we sent text and pictures to my mom, sisters, family
and friends. We then went to a place the local's call
Schaefer's to get my deer registered where I got a rare treat
of a donut. Later I was excited to learn that both shots had
actually hit the deer.
Overall my trip to Nebraska was unlike any trip I have
ever taken there. I'll never forget that empty feeling when I
missed my first buck and the wonderful feeling when I got
him. So for all you fourteen year olds, when you get the
chance to go hunting with your dad and see and spend time
with family, go for it, you won't regret it. O
LUCK of the DRAW
by Byron Kibby
IT WAS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON in 1974 when
I was invited to hunt on a deer lease south of Hebbronville in
Jim Hogg County. The lease rights were owned by Arthur
Brothers, an outside contractor for Celanese, for whom I was
employed at the time. Most of the early season hunting
dates had already been booked when my time arrived to
select a hunt date. Since I was living in the panhandle town
of Pampa, travel time to Hebbronville became a primary
concern. Thus, I chose the dates of December 26 and 27 t
coincide with the Christmas holiday.
Previous to this opportunity I had hunted on a family
lease near Charlotte in Atascosa County, where outstanding
racks were hard to come by. I had a premonition that if I
were ever to harvest a true trophy deer this would be my
time.
My father-in-law, Louis Wright, accompanied me on this
hunt. We arrived at the ranch around noon on the 26th.
Four other invited guests also participated in this two day
hunt. The six of us assembled around a camp table and we
were given general information about the ranch, camp
rules, etc. We were advised that there were six stands on the
ranch, numbered one through six.
Instead of us
indiscriminately selecting or being assigned to a stand, our
hunting location would be determined by the luck of the
draw.
A leather cone shaped device, similar to a dice cup, with
a small opening at the top was first handed to me. I was
advised that there were six numbered balls inside and my
stand location would be determined by the number on the
ball I drew. For whatever reason, I passed it to the next
person, as I stated I would take whatever stand was left after
the others drew their numbers. When this cup circled the
table and returned to me, I was left with stand five.
About 3:30 p.m. that day we were driven to our stands
and were advised we would be picked up after dark.
Entering my stand, I was disappointed to discover I had
limited viewing distance. It was not on a fence line or
sendero. I later learned that this was the only stand from
which a buck had not been killed during the course of the
season. From the time I entered the stand until 5:35 p.m. I
glassed with my binoculars constantly but did not see a deer.
Suddenly something in the brush caught my eye that
appeared different. Peering through my binoculars, I
discerned the outline of a motionless buck looking directly
at me at sixty yards. His outline was obscured by a mesquite
bush in front of him. Quietly picking up my rifle I found him
in my scope. I had only a small opening to place my shot but
it was right behind his shoulder. I told myself, “Do not blow
this shot.” To my dismay, upon firing the buck turned and
ran as though he had not been touched. It was beginning to
get dark as I climbed down from my stand. Arriving at the
spot I could find no trace of blood or hair. My only recourse
was to head in the direction I last saw the buck run. It was
now nearing 6:00 p.m. and light was fading fast. Upon
walking about 75 yards I found the buck piled up, deader
than a hammer!
I could not believe the magnitude of his magnificent
rack. He was a perfectly symmetrical 10-point with long,
heavy tines. By far he was also the largest deer I had ever
seen. After field dressing the deer, I sat down beside him to
wait to be picked up. The Arthur Brother's crew arrived
about 30 minutes later. I could not believe how ecstatic they
were when they saw my buck. Their response validated my
belief that I had harvested a very special whitetail.
Returning to camp, their jubilation was obvious, as they
called for everyone to see this deer. Louis, drinking a beer,
was standing by his pickup a short distance away looking at a
forked horn buck he had killed. As I approached him, I told
him this hunt was going to cost me some money. He
replied, “What do you mean?” I stated that I had killed a big
deer and would have to have it mounted. I was not sure he
realized what I said because he then offered me a beer. I
showed him my blood stained hands and wrists. It was only
then that he comprehended that I was the one who had
killed the exceptional buck.
The next day we hunted until noon, then loaded our two
bucks in the pickup for our return trip home. We stopped in
Freer for ice and gas. I wanted to enter my buck in the Muy
Grande contest but learned to my disappointment that one
had to pre-register. Nevertheless, a crowd assembled
around the pickup as the horns of the buck stood above the
bed walls. Louis and I were visiting with the group as one
observer pointed to the small forked horn and told Louis,
“That is the kind of deer I always kill.” All of us present
chuckled at the remark.
I later learned that had I registered for the Muy Grande
contest in a timely manner that I may have been the grand
prize winner. My buck has a field dressed weight of 190
pounds and was scored by a Boone and Crockett
representative to have a gross score of 169 3/8 and a net
score of 165 6/8. It was officially accepted by Boone and
Crockett Club during the 24th Big Game Awards Program.
I have never been successful in various raffles or the
lottery, but by drawing stand number five, I most assuredly
won the biggest lottery of my life. O
Support your local SCI Chapter
by promoting your business here!
Become a newsletter sponsor
by calling Stephanie at
512-694-0387 or e-mail
[email protected]
KOZ NATIONAL
HUNTING AND
FISHING DAY
by Larry Hassell
ON SEPTEMBER 24, SCI Austin, along with a number of
other area outdoor organizations, participated in a National
Hunting and Fishing Day Expo in Old Settlers Park in Round
Rock. Literally thousands of people were on hand to learn
about fishing, conservation, ecology, canoeing, and dog
handling. Our chapter was proud to present the SCI Austin
Sensory Safari Trailer, which is always a hit for both kids and
adults. Visitors always ask interesting questions and are
thrilled to see and touch the taxidermy from four continents.
Many times we are given an opportunity to explain how
hunting contributes to the wise management of wildlife and
their environments, thereby ensuring their survival for
future generations. O
PULLOUT PREVIEW SECTION
Save the date!
Fri Jan 20
Our Seventh Annual Hunters' Heritage Banquet will be held on Friday, January 20, 2012 at The Renaissance
Hotel in Austin, Texas. We will be using the funds raised to further conservation, humanitarian and
educational programs on local, as well as national and international levels. We will be hosting both a Live
and Silent Auction, raffles and Backwards Bingo to help us reach our target goal of $100,000. The following
is a summary of our raffle and live auction items at press time. For further information and ticket orders
please visit our website at sciaustin.org. and view the auction catalog. Items are updated/added daily. In
addition to the Live Auction items listed we will also have Silent Auction items AND the following Raffle
Items: M77 Hawkeye African .375 Ruger, Kimber 1911 Custom II Pistol .45 ACP, Smith & Wesson
M&P 223 Remington, Leupold RX-1000 TBR Rangefinder, Leupold VX-II 3-9x40MM Matte Duplex Rifle
scope, Ruger LCR 9mm Pistol, Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge w/Laminated Stock and a Custom
Hand-Made Knife.
The offerings shown here are, as always, subject to changes, additions and/or deletions. Check the program
on the night of the event for the final line-up details.
www.sciaustin.org
AUCTION ITEMS:
7 DAY SAFARI FOR ONE HUNTER AND
ONE OBSERVER
Donated By: Jannie Otto Safaris
Visit Kimberly South Africa on this 3
day photo and 4 days hunting, 1x1
guided common springbuck,
mountain reedbuck and blesbok
hunt for one hunter and one observer
donated by Jannie Otto Safaris
Safaris..
Schedule this rifle hunt with the outfitter for open dates May through
August 2012 or 2013
2013.. Included are camp accommodations, meals,
guide service, trophy fees for 1 common springbuck, 1 mountain
reedbuck and 1 blesbok and field prep. The hunt can be upgraded to
include additional game and can be extended per outfitter's current
price list. Not included are any before/after hunt expenses, ground
transfer round trip (appox. $600/vehicle, up to 6 people), 14% VAT on
daily rates, packaging/shipping of trophies and gratuities.
The
arrival/departure point is Kimberly. For more information, contact
Jannie by email at [email protected] or see
http://www.jannieotto.com
/. Value $13,700. This is a 100% donation
http://www.jannieotto.com/.
to our Chapter.
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only.
8 DAY KALAHARI LIONESS HUNT FOR
ONE HUNTER AND ONE OBSERVER
Donated by: White Lion Safaris
This 8 day hunt can be scheduled
March 1 thru Dec 1, 2012 or 2013. The
arrival/departure point is Johannesburg,
South Africa. The hunter will also get $650
credit towards any plains game trophies.
All road transport, hunting licenses, Cites
permits and export documents, accommodations in luxury lodges, and
transport of trophies to taxidermist is included.
Not included are the trophy fee for the lioness, airfare and
taxidermy. The hunter can hunt for either a common lioness or for a
white lioness, depending on preference. Trophy fees for a common
female are $6,500. Trophy fees for a white female are $ 7,500.
The hunt can be upgraded to include more days and/or to hunt for a
male lion (trophy fees can be discussed and set directly with the
outfitter). Daily rates are $450 for 1x1, $390 for 2x1 and observers are
$250.
For more information, contact Ricus by email at
[email protected] or see http://whitelionsafaris.com
http://whitelionsafaris.com.. Value
$8,000. This is a 100% donation to our Chapter.
Joshua Spies has been named the
2011 Safari Club International
Conservation Artist of the Year.
“Vantage Point” is an impressive giclee on
canvas of a resting leopard by Joshua
Spies. Number 9 of only 100, signed by
Joshua Spies. 36in. x 27in, the print is
handsomely framed (not shown in
illustration).
4 DAY NEW ZEALAND SAFARI FOR 2
HUNTERS
Donated by: Four Seasons Safaris New
Zealand
Shane Johnston, award-winning
owner/outfitter of Four Seasons Safaris New
Zealand invites 2 hunters to experience
the breathtaking scenery of the spectacular
Southern Alps while hunting New Zealand's big three: Tahr, Chamois and
Red Stag. Hunt to be booked March-August 2012 or 2013
2013.. The hunt
includes 4 days hunting for 2 hunters ( 2x1), field accommodation,
meals, 4WD transfers from Christchurch Intl' airport to hunting area
within guiding days and a $1,000 trophy fee credit for each hunter to
put toward either a Tahr, Chamois or a trophy Red Stag. This hunt
cannot be taken in conjunction with any other NZ safari or a safari
already booked with Four Seasons Safaris New Zealand.
Live your lifetime dream and experience all of what Four Seasons
has to offer. Specializing in trophy hunting all of New Zealand's big
game animals, bird shooting, fly fishing for trout and salmon, jet boat
and helicopter safaris, scenic tours, 'pamper me' spa days, golf on a top
golf resort where Four Seasons is based, horse riding, shopping and so
much more. This hunt can be upgraded for addl days, to include addl NZ
species, to luxurious 5 star resort accommodation $350/day and addl
hunters and non-hunters. Not included is weapons permit NZ$25,
expediting, taxidermy, shipping/packing or export documents of
trophies and gratuities. This donation is a helicopter assisted hunt in
which additional costs for flying time is payable from $1,450 per hour.
For more info visit www.fourseasonsnz.com
www.fourseasonsnz.com.. Value $5,000. This is a
100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only.
5 NIGHT STAY IN
COLORADO CABIN
A
SOUTHWESTERN
Mark and Beverly Jaffe of Conejos Cabins
have graciously donated a 5 night stay in one of
their 1 bedroom cabins (up to 4 people) in Platoro,
Colorado. Enjoy your private cabin on the banks of
the Conejos River in southern Colorado. Fish for
trout, hike the mountain trails, or explore the Rocky
Mountains on your ATV.
Conejos Cabins are
surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest and are near the South
San Juan Wilderness. If you time it right you may also see the golden
aspens turn and shimmer in the late September breezes. This area has
been rated #1 in Colorado for viewing aspens their fall transformation.
The stay can be upgraded to a 2 or 3 bedroom cabin and for more days.
Offer good for the summer or fall seasons of 2012, excluding the month
of July. For more info visit www.platoroco.com
www.platoroco.com.. Value: $500. This is a
100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
KIMBER 8400 CLASSIC IN .270 WSM
The Kimber Model 8400 rifles feature free-floated 24 inch match
grade barrels. Handsome classic design walnut stocks feature both
pillar and glass bedding to enhance stability and ensure fine accuracy.
Kimber stocks have an elegant, hand-rubbed oil finish that protects the
wood while emphasizing the character and beauty of the grain. The
.270 WSM chambering of our auction rifle is one of the most popular of
the new generation of Winchester short magnums, providing
spectacular performance for everything from whitetail deer and
pronghorn to elk. This rifle would also be ideal for almost any African
plains game, including kudu and wildebeest. The Kimber 8400 is
today's classic that will be cherished by future generations of hunters.
7 DAY NAMIBIA HUNT FOR TWO
HUNTERS
Donated by: African Twilight Safaris
Schedule this 7 day hunt for 2
hunters February thru November 2012 or
2013
2013.. Arrival/departure point is Windhoek,
Namibia. This donation includes the trophy
fees for 2 Springbok, 2 Hartmann Zebra
and 1 Kalahari Gemsbok
Gemsbok,, all road transport, hunting licenses, Cites
permits and export documents, accommodations in luxury lodges and
transport of trophies to taxidermist is included.
Hunt can be upgraded to include more days. Daily rates are $300
for hunters and $150 for observers.
For more information, contact Jaco van der Merwe by email at
[email protected] or visit
www.africantwilightsafaris.com. Value $7,710. This is a 100% donation
to our Chapter.
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only.
10 DAY HUNT IN ARGENTINA FOR TWO
HUNTERS
Donated By: Anuritay Ranch
Visit Santiago del Estero on this 10 day
hunt for 2 hunters which includes 1 boar,
1 goat and 1 ram for each hunter
hunter..
Schedule this rifle hunt with the outfitter for
open dates in 2012 or 2013
2013.. Included are
luxury lodge accommodations, meals, guide service and field prep. The
hunt can be upgraded to include additional game (18 more species),
hunters or days ($500/day for hunters and $200/day for non-hunters).
The license fee is an extra $200/each. The arrival/departure point is
Santiago del Estero airport. For more information, contact Paco by
email at [email protected] or see http://anuritay.com/.
Value $15,500. This is a 100% donation to our Chapter.
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only
only..
12 DAY SURF AND TURF SAFARI IN
SOUTH AFRICA'S EASTERN CAPE FOR
TWO HUNTERS
Donated By: Leopard's Valley Safaris
2 travel days, 8 hunting days, 1 day
deep sea fishing and 1 day birding
Doves, Guinea fowl and Egyptian geese)
((Doves,
for 2 hunters. Schedule this rifle hunt
with outfitter for open dates May thru July 2012 or 2013
2013.. Included are
lodge accommodations, meals, license, guide service (2x1) and field
prep. Also included are the trophy fees for 1 Kudu, 1 Impala, 1
Springbuck and 1 Steenbuck
Steenbuck.. The hunt can be upgraded to include
additional game (28 species), hunters or days ($350/day 1x1, $280/day
2x1 for hunters and $150/day for non-hunters). The arrival/departure
point is Port Elizabeth, SA. Come hunt the scenic Eastern Cape and fish
the Indian Ocean. For more information, contact Dave by email at
[email protected] or visit http://www.leopardsvalley.co.za
/.
http://www.leopardsvalley.co.za/.
Value $10,250. This is a 100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only.
7 DAY NAMIBIA HUNT FOR ONE
HUNTER AND ONE OBSERVER
Donated By: Thormahlen & Cochran
Enjoy 495,000 acres of free
range hunting for 1 Hunter and 1
Observer. Schedule this rifle hunt with
the outfitter for open dates March thru
November 2012 or 2013. Included
are the tented safari camp, meals,
guide service, field prep and $1,000 credit toward trophy fees. The
hunt can be upgraded to include additional game, more
hunters/observors, or additional days ($450/day for hunters and
$250/day for non-hunters). Arrival/departure point is Windhoek. For
m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c o n t a c t Pe t e r b y e m a i l a t
[email protected] or visit
http://www.africatrophyhunting.com
/. Value $6,050. This is a 100%
http://www.africatrophyhunting.com/.
donation to our Chapter.
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only
only..
“MOONLIGHT MOMENT” BY SHERRY STEELE
Exquisite in detail, powerful in impact. This
signed and numbered Limited Edition
Scratchboard (#1 of 50), of a leopard pausing on
his midnight patrol encapsulates the natural
beauty of the creature in his most perfect
element. Soon to slip away into the shadows, his
presence will still be felt in the still air behind
him. Richly framed in Sherry's celebrated style,
this piece will embellish the finest of decors. Size = 32”W x 30”H
The original of this piece will be auctioned off at the SCI Ladies
Luncheon, and has been valued at $4,200.
TWO 10 WEEK OLD LAB
PUPPIES
Donated by:
The
Williams Family
Yellow Lab mother,
Black Lab father.
Both
puppies are black, one is a
male (currently named
Gizmo) and one is a female (currently
named Blackie).
SET OF THREE FRAMED TILES BY SHERRY STEELE
The tiles measure 4” by 4”. Outside measurements are 11” by 11”
5 DAY OREGON BLACKTAIL DEER HUNT
FOR ONE HUNTER
Donated By: Hell's Half Acre Outfitters
This is a 5 day rifle hunt for 1 hunter
for a Columbian black-tail deer in Southern
Oregon. The majority of the hunts are on
individually owned ranches, or leased tracts
of private timber lands, and their public
land options are top notch. They also have
some of the most coveted ocean, coastal river, and stream fishing at
their disposal. There are huge runs of Chinook salmon, Coho Salmon,
and Steelhead that frequent their rivers in the winter, spring and fall.
This hunt is to be taken Oct-Nov 2012 or 2013
2013.. Motel and food
included. Tag and license are extra (~$550). Upgrade to include a black
bear $1,000, salmon fishing $175/day. Additional hunter $2,500, nonhunter $250/day. Arrival/departure Myrtle Point, Oregon.
Value:
$4,000.
5 DAY SPAIN HUNT FOR 1 HUNTER AND 1
OBSERVER
Donated by: Guiseppe Carrizosa
SCI's 2009 Outstanding Intl'
Professional Hunter of the Year, Giuseppe
Carrizosa has again donated a 5 day hunt in
2012 or 2013 for 1 hunter and 1
Besides wonderful
observer.
accommodations and cuisine, you will enjoy tourism and cultural visits,
like the “Imperial City of Toledo”, historical Spanish cities, Cathedrals,
Monasteries, the Wind Mills of La Mancha, play golf, go shopping and
sightseeing. This unforgettable experience is as enjoyable for the hunter
as it is for the non hunting companion.
The hunter is asked to book a minimum of two of the following
trophies: Spanish Red Deer, European Fallow Deer, European Mouflon
Sheep - $4,500/ea, any of our four different varieties of Spanish Ibex,
(Gredos, Beceite, South-east & Ronda) - $7,500/ea, Roe Deer - $3,700,
Barbary Sheep - $6,900 and Balearean Boc ($3,800). Hunter is
responsible for the trophy fees + hunting insurance ($150), hunting
license ($200/State) and the corresponding 18% V.A.T. on total market
value. Twenty-six of Giuseppe's clients have already taken the Major
Award Trophy Europe during the last ten years. There is no other
Spanish Outfitter whose clients received awards for their trophies 10
years in a row. See www.giuseppecarrizosa.com/Index.cfm for more
information. Donor's valuation: $5,700. This is a 100% donation to
our Chapter
Chapter..
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only
only..
7 DAY SAFARI FOR TWO HUNTERS AND
TWO OBSERVERS IN THE NORTHWEST
PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA
Donated By: Restless Africa Safaris
Schedule this 7 day 2x1 rifle or bow
hunt, for 2 hunters and 2 observers
observers,, with
the outfitter for open dates 2012 or 2013.
Included are camp accommodations,
meals, guide service, trophy fees for 2 warthog, 2 impala and 2 blue
wildebeest and field prep. The hunt can be upgraded to include
additional game and can be extended per outfitter's current price list.
Not included are any before/after hunt expenses, 14% VAT on daily rates,
packaging/shipping of trophies and gratuities. Additional hunters at
$300/day, non-hunters $200/day.
The arrival/departure point is
Johannesburg. For more information, contact Donovan Steynberg by
email at [email protected] or see
http://www.restlessafrica.co.za
http://www.restlessafrica.co.za// or http://www.letsibogo.co.za
http://www.letsibogo.co.za.. Value:
$11,150. This is a 100% donation to our Chapter.
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only.
4 DAY NEW ZEALAND RIFLE, BOW OR
MUZZLELOADER SAFARI FOR ONE
HUNTER AND ONE OBSERVER
Donated By: ASJ Trophy Hunting New
Zealand
Stu-e and Judy Rees,
owners/operators of ASJ Trophy Hunting
New Zealand, have donated a 4 day 1x1
guided New Zealand hunt for 1 hunter
and 1 observer with Trophy Fee credits toward trophy fees of: Red
Stag $1,500: Tahr or Chamois $1,000: Fallow Buck $1,000: Arapawa
Sheep $200: Goat $200. The hunting is on the spectacular Argyle
Station Ranch. Argyle is one of the largest privately owned properties in
New Zealand, specializing in world class trophy hunts in one of the most
picturesque areas of New Zealand, if not the world. Argyle is only a
stone's throw away from Queenstown; the Adventure Capital of New
Zealand. Schedule this hunt for available dates March July, 2012 or
2013
2013.. The successful bidder will be personally guided by Stu-e Rees,
one of New Zealand's most experienced guides and an international
hunter. 2012 Trophy Fees are: Red Stag up to 330 SCI- $4,500: Tahr $4,500: Chamois $3,500: Fallow - $3,500: Arapawa Sheep - $800: Goat
- $700. Additional Days: Hunter $600/day, Non Hunters $250/ Day. If
Tahr hunting, and the use of helicopter becomes necessary, the cost to
the hunter would be approximately $1,700/ hour, which is paid direct to
the helicopter pilot. For more info see http://www.asjhunting.com
/.
http://www.asjhunting.com/.
Value : $7,000. This is a 100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
Rheinlander World Class Taxidermy has donated 15% off
taxidermy work up to $800. Offer is good for this hunt only.
SAN SABA HOG HUNT FOR 4
Donated By: CGJ Ranches
CGJ Ranches has donated this 2 day 2012
hog hunt for 4 on their beautiful ranch in San
Saba (lodging and food not included). Each
hunter can take 2 hogs. Hunt can be upgraded to
i n c l u d e d e e r.
Fo r m o r e i n f o s e e
www.hillcountrydeerhunt.com
www.hillcountrydeerhunt.com.. Value: $2,000.
This is a 100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
MANITOBA FISHING FOR TWO JULY 1AUG 4
Donated By: Gangler's Fly-In Lodges
Fish for Northern Pike, Lake Trout,
Walleye and Grayling on this 7 day fishing
trip for 2 at the Maria Lake mini-lodge.
This trip is non-guided. Guide can be added
at $200/day. Trip can be upgraded to the
main lodge for $1,300/person for a 7 day trip and $800/person for a 4
day trip. Transportation during the trip is mainly by boat and plane. $36
license not included. Arrival/departure point is Winnipeg, Manitoba. For
more info see http://www.ganglers.com
/. Value: $6,790.
http://www.ganglers.com/.
BRITISH COLUMBIA SPRING BLACK BEAR HUNT
Donated By: Nanika Guiding Ltd.
Join Nanika Guiding on this 6 day spring 2012
or 2013 black bear hunt for 1 hunter (dates for 2012
are May 13- May 19). The winner of this donation must
bring a second paying hunter at $2,850
$2,850.. Hunters must
pay for their license $195 and tag $195. A second bear
can be taken for $445 (includes the tag). Observers
can be added at $1,550. Accommodations are cabin with shower and
electricity. Rifle preferred method of take. Arrival/departure point is
Smithers BC. http://www.nanika.ca/index.php
http://www.nanika.ca/index.php.. Value: $2,850. This is
a 100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
AXIS DOE HUNT IN ROCKSPRINGS, TX
Donated By: Hoffman Ranch
Hoffman Hunting Ranch has donated a
2012 - 2 day axis doe hunt for 1 hunter
hunter..
Donation includes meals and lodging at the
Hoffman Ranch and field caping/quartering of
game. Hunt can be upgraded for Axis buck,
Scimitar Horned Oryx, Blackbuck or Fallow.
st
Hunt must be completed before Oct 1 . Additional hunters are welcome
at $250/day and non-hunters for $150/day. BYOB and ice chests. Texas
hunting license needed.
Fo r m o r e i n f o s e e
http://www.hunthoffmanranch.com
/. Value: $850. This is a 100%
http://www.hunthoffmanranch.com/.
donation to our Chapter.
MATHEWS MISSION RIOT BOW
Donated by: Archery Country/Austin and Mathews Archery
Includes quiver, stabilizer, bow sight and arrow rest.
Specs: IBO Rate: Up to 310 fps, Physical Weight: 4.3 lbs.,
Axle to Axle: 31", Brace Height: 7", Letoff: up to 80%, Riser:
Extruded, Draw Weight: 15-70 lbs, Finish (Riser/Limbs): Lost
Camo AT and Draw Length: 19-30". This is a 100%
donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
BERETTA SV 10 PERENNIA III 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN 26” BARRELS
WITH FITTED CASE
Donated by: McBride's Guns
Ideal blend of tradition, design, function and style. In a
traditional firearm like the over-and-under, the task of the designer is
even more difficult. The design is constrained by the dimensions, the
function of the parts, by the weight and balance of the components, by
the ergonomics of the shapes, by tradition.
The new Beretta Perennia over-and-under is the best example of
how all of these characteristics may be blended together in the correct
proportions in order to reach a single goal, a grand result of elegance,
modernism, efficiency and style. This is a 100% donation to our
Chapter
Chapter..
2012 TEXAS PRAIRIE DOG HUNT
Donated by: The Christopher Gill
Family
The Christopher Gill Family has
donated a two day/three night prairie
dog hunt for 4 hunters on the beautiful
Circle Ranch which is in the Sierra Diablo
Mountains, near Van Horn, Texas. 4
additional non hunting guests are welcomed as well. The winners and
guests will stay in a nice bunkhouse and need to bring their own vehicles
and food. They will enjoy hunting six large prairie dog towns. When not
hunting, tour the scenic property and its canyons, mountains, desert
floor and rolling perennial grasslands. Donor's Valuation: $4,500. This
is a 100% donation to our Chapter
Chapter..
The offerings shown here are, as always, subject to changes, additions
and/or deletions. Check the program on the night of the event for the
final line-up details.
IMPACTING the
FUTURE of HUNTING
by COL (r) Jerry Warden
THE LAST TIME WE VISITED through an article, I
addressed in great detail what is now a long relationship
between SCI Austin and the Texas Youth Hunting Program
(TYHP).
This partnership has included three TYHP
Huntmasters being recipients of your Christo Kaiser
Conservation Awards, loan of SCI Austin Sensory Safari
mounts for numerous educational events, support to the
Austin Woods and Waters Club's Youth Hunting Program, and
most importantly, the cooking for upwards of 200
participants during the annual Cave Creek Super Hunts, and
your members running their own TYHP Hunts. With this
article, I like to introduce our parent organization, the Texas
Wildlife Association (TWA).
If you don't
This is what TWA does. Preserves know about TWA
your right to hunt and
landowner rights to produce you should, for it
deer like this native missions are closely
South Texas Whitetail. a s s o c i a t e d w i t h
those of your
organization. The
Te x a s W i l d l i f e
Association (TWA) is
a statewide nonprofit organization,
established in 1985,
to represent private land stewards, land managers,
conservationists, hunters, and anglers from across the state
of Texas.
TWA members care for and control almost 40 million
acres of rangeland and wildlife habitat that are key
components of Texas' upstream watersheds. Because
nearly 95 percent of land in Texas is privately owned, the
involvement of private land stewards is critical in
establishing Texas' long-term conservation policies.
TWA has three main program areas: Conservation
Legacy (youth and adult education), Hunting Heritage (Texas
Youth Hunting Program and Texas Big Game Awards
Program), and Issues and Advocacy.
The principal
objectives of the
Association are to
enhance the game
and non-game
wildlife resources of
Texas for the benefit
When not over a stove,
of all through the
Larry teaches the 'art'
preser vation and
of processing to groups
of novice youth hunters.
improvement of
wildlife habitat,
sensible management practices (hunting), appropriate
legislative action and education of the public concerning the
needs of wildlife, hunting, and the importance of this great
resource to all citizens.
The Texas Wildlife Association is absolutely dedicated to
educating all persons, especially the youth of Texas, about
the conservation, management and enhancement of wildlife
and wildlife habitat on private land. We are taking an active
role in helping people connect to the land, perpetuating
Texas' outdoor and rural heritage, and hunting. TWA is the
voice for landowners and hunters who love and care for the
land; it makes sure their rights are not ignored. The
Association strongly supports hunting, hunting rights, and
our incredible hunting heritage.
The Texas Wildlife Association has helped pass
significant legislation that allows landowners to put wildlife
first. Efforts include the limitation of liability for agricultural
landowners who allow wildlife recreation on their property
and the establishment of wildlife management as a
recognized
property tax
valuation.
TWA fights
to preserve
y o u r
hunting
rights.
Let your
voice be
SCI Austin cook team at TYHP Super Hunt
heard at the
Legislature.
We need to work as a great team to protect our hunting
heritage and rights. Consider becoming a TWA member. For
more Information, go to www. texas-wildlife.org
texas-wildlife.org.. O
Can you imagine feeding this group and more? Your SCI Austin does this annually out of ice chests and on propane stoves and BBQ pits!
Giuseppe Carrizosa - SPAIN
Libra, 47. 28023 MADRID (Spain) Tel.&Fax: INT-34-91 357 20 64
[email protected]
www.giuseppecarrizosa.com
352-861-3174 • www.cansubarc.com • [email protected]
Tel:+264 62 571769
• Fax: +264 62 571769
• Cell: +264 81 260 3355
E-mail: [email protected] •
website: www.kalahari-safari.com
Address: Getaway Kalahari Safari,
Louis Botha Game Ranch,
Gobabis, Namibia
M
STRIPE
R
KE N
DE
UI
Ken Milam
Guide Service
for reservations
AS
243 Alexander Drive
Tow, TX 78672
LA
ww.mcdougalllodge.com
[email protected][email protected]
907-733-2818
G
AM
IL
KE
BU
CH
X
TE
ANAN,
more info at
www.striperfever.com
Ramiro Gonzalez Allende
Juan Jose Paso 275 (5105)
Villa Allende, Cordoba, Argentina
+54 9 351 3264429
Toll Free (U. S.) 866-341-3873
[email protected]
Steve Rahn (Owner/Outfitter)
Silvertine Wildlife Co.
PO Box 399
Clinton, BC
V0K 1K0
Canada
Phone/Fax: 25-459-7772
Email: [email protected]
2011 SCI AUSTIN
FAMILY PICNIC
by Larry Hassell
WE CAN DEPEND on August to bring Central Texas
scorching temperatures and often high humidity. Despite
extraordinary high temperatures, even for Texas, our annual
Family Picnic was well attended and a great success. The
usual shooting aspect was not possible due to renovations
TDS is making to this beautiful facility. We are very thankful
to Texas Disposal Systems for their on-going support of SCI
Austin and the use of the TDS Exotic Game Ranch.
Attendees enjoyed bus tours of the expansive grounds.
At this point the game ranch is home to more than 60
species of game animals from throughout the world. Where
else can you expect to encounter giraffe, fallow deer, eland,
axis deer, addax, nyala, blue wildebeest, zebra, and white
rhino in a matter of minutes? Adults and children are
treated to a remarkable mix of animals.
A number of kids spent the morning fishing and the
action was brisk. Trophies were later presented to the
largest, the smallest, the most, etc. Trophies were also
awarded to those young people who harvested their first big
game in the past hunting season. It is important we
recognize and support this new generation of outdoors
people.
We want to offer our special thanks to Texas Parks &
Wildlife Department for bringing out their archery
equipment and running an archery range for both youth and
adults. The sport of archery continues strong growth
throughout our country.
The event was concluded with a great barbeque lunch
and conclusion of a silent auction that featured a wide variety
of sporting goods, art, jewelry and a fishing trip. Family
Picnic is always one of our best attended events of the year.
O
5231 FM 2325
www.wildlifeimagestaxidermy.com
more photos on the following page!
HUNTING GEMSBOK
IN NAMIBIA
by Allen Hansen
WE AWOKE AT 8AM and after breakfast went after a
gemsbok bull we had spotted the previous day. While
working our way to the mountain Jaco, my PH, lost his camo
headcover, but I saw it fall and gave it back to him. Before the
morning was over he'd loose it again and I'd lose mine.
Shown left is Jaco taking a break while waiting for the gimp
to catch up. It's hard to get an idea of the scale of this place
but we're actually up pretty high right here. It's probably
close to a kilometer across the valley behind Jaco.
At the top of the mountain the black men spooked the
gemsbok towards us but he went by me at 100m without
slowing down. One hour and two miles later we were on him
again but again lost him. Jaco was quite a way from me so I
headed over towards him.
I guess the bull saw one of the black men and turned
back towards us because all the sudden Jaco ducked behind
a rock and pointed just beyond it. The excited look on his
face told me we weren't alone. The bull was coming my way
along the fence. I had no time to range him although it
wouldn't have done much good because I was shooting
down a pretty steep angle which throws everything off. I
nocked an arrow, put the 45 yard pin on the base of his heart
and when it stopped for a second to look around him I
released it. That was one of those magical arrows when you
“become the arrow”. I knew where it would land before I
released it. I watched it arc right in the heart and saw lots of
blood immediately. It knocked the bull over like a large
caliber bullet would do, and he fell through the fence
sideways.
He should have been dead in 50m but instead we
watching him keep running, and running, and running. We
were on a pretty good sized mountain so we could see him a
long way away. Jaco called Hendrik on the radio and they
headed off after him with the truck. They weren't trying to
catch him, just get him in sight. I ranged where I shot him
52 yards. I used my 45 yard pin and it was pretty steep so I
guess the Kentucky-windage worked out. Then I went down
to get my arrow. About the last 10” with the feathers was
lying by the fence. He had broken the arrow immediately but
was spraying blood so hard that there was blood on the
feathers. There was great blood leading away so I was really
confused how he was still going.
see Hunting Gemsbok on page 19
It's hard to get an idea of the scale of this place but actually up pretty high.
Hunting Gemsbok continued
Allen was able to sneak up to about 20m of his quarry,
but didn't have a clean shot at the vitals.
We watched him go over a mile. Jaco guided the trackers
until they had him in sight, which probably was over an hour
after he took the arrow. Then we headed towards him.The
blood trail was spraying everywhere and was so good Jaco
joked that even he could follow it. One of the trackers
brought Jaco's .270. When we were about 150m away he
asked me if I wanted to finish him but then it took off again
and Jaco took a running shot at him, which we heard
connect. Everyone went running after him so as not to lose
sight of him. I kept up as best I could until we got to the truck.
We roared away after him and the neighbors happened
along, and they want to visit! Jaco explained the timing was
bad and we took off again, trying to cut him off but by then
we had lost sight of him. To make matters worse there were
two herds of gemsbok that crossed our path so tracking
could prove difficult.
We circled back and I suggested he might have climbed
a small, rocky mountain to our right. “Maybe”, Jaco said. We
went back to where they last saw him to have the trackers
bloodtrail him. They found blood and I asked Jaco if I could
follow the trackers instead of riding in the truck. “Keep up”,
he said. They didn't start running again so it wasn't a
problem.
The mountain peak just right of the horn is where
Allen first shot this gemsbok, probably 2 miles as
the crow flies (he didn't make a bee-line here).
Erik and Hendrik were incredible trackers. They actually
didn't do anything I hadn't seen before, but they were just
very good at it. We went for probably a mile. At one time they
lost the bloodtrail and I actually found it. (Almost threw my
shoulder out patting myself on the back for that one!) We
got a couple hundred yards from that small rock mountain I
mentioned he might be holed up in earlier and Hendrik left
the bloodtrail on a hunch. Erik and I continued following the
trail and it wasn't long before we heard Hendrik's whistle.
He'd found blood on the rocks. Before we even got there he'd
found my gemsbok bed down. They called Jaco and had
David bring my bow.
We saw the horns move a little every so often so we knew
he wasn't quite dead yet. I set my camera on a rock in video
mode on the gemsbok as I didn't bring the tripod and I went
in for the final stalk. I was able to sneak up to about 20m but
didn't have a clean shot at the vitals.
There were some weeds covering the killzone so I tried
shooting through them. It didn't work; the arrow deflected
over the bull. He wasn't as close to dead as I thought as he
jumped right to his feet. He ran about 10m, saw me, and
then faced me straight-on. I don't even remember nocking
another arrow but when he stopped I put it right at the base
of his neck. That's not a good shot with archery but it's all I
had. He took off and Jaco shot twice; the first shot hit his
neck and the second hit lots of Namibian air (he missed).
This shot shows the wound where Jaco grazed his hip,
and the blood by his tail was from when we moved him.
Notice Allen’s quiver; 4 bloody arrows, 3 of them broken.
He went down again within 100m but still wouldn't give
up. He'd bob his head and kick a little, still trying to hold on.
We waited a couple of minutes and I felt truly sorry for the old
warrior. I stepped up about 3 yards away and shot him
without using a release. It was high; probably hitting both
lungs, but this didn't faze him. I nocked another arrow, put
on the release, and put one in the center of his heart. He
jumped to his feet, looked at me, lowered his head, and gave
me a Mark Sullivan charge that I'll never forget. I don't know if
it was me jumping to the side (with a broken foot) or he was
just out of gas, but he never got to me. Wish we'd have
videoed the charge…
He expired within a minute, over 2 hours after the first
arrow. It was an honest 4 miles he'd covered too. Jaco's first
see Hunting Gemsbok on page 20
Hunting Gemsbok continued
A WINNING
MINDSET
by Joe Schram
This old warrior had one tooth left in his mouth, and that was loose.
shot had hit his rump and it was just a glancing wound. That
probably made him run harder because he thought
something was on his butt. Jaco aged him at 15+ years.
Toughest animal I've ever hunted. In the wind…
The accompanying photo shows the wound where Jaco
grazed his hip. (The blood by his tail was from when we
moved him.) Notice my quiver; 4 bloody arrows, 3 of them
broken.
In another photo you can see the very far peak just off his
horn is where I first shot him. That's probably 2 miles as the
crow flies, and he didn't make a bee-line there.
He had one tooth left in his mouth and that was loose.
Soon he'd have lost it, grown weak from malnutrition, and
been torn apart by hyenas. I expect he'd have given them a
run for their money too.
It was all Jaco and the black men could do to carry my
saber-toothed gemsbok the 75m down to the truck. They
would slaughter him back a Jaco's place. The next day David
said the first arrow had hit the bottom of the heart so I can't
explain why he went that far. They say the zebra and
wildebest are even tougher than gemsbok.
We had lunch with Mare', Ema, and their two daughters.
We watched the video of me shooting the gemsbok several
times. O
AS I SIT HERE WRITING THIS TODAY, I am preparing
for my Level 3 Skeet Instructor Certification Class on
Wednesday and Thursday in San Antonio at the National
Shooting Complex. Next week, it is the World Skeet
Competition. There are many requirements to become a
level 3 Instructor. One requirement; I must give a 30 minute
presentation on a subject matter of my choice, which is to be
focused on the "A" class and above competition shooter.
The title of my presentation is "Tournament Preparation
for the Competition Shooter". I intend to cover 3 particular
areas: Physical, Mental and the Metaphysical aspects. I
intend to spend at least 10 minutes on the Mental aspect of
the game. I could spend a day on this subject and probably
just scratch the surface. It is probably the most important
aspect of the game to someone who understands that the
physical ability to shoot this sport is only about 10% of the
game. The other 90% is purely mental.
There have been many books written on the mental
aspects of sports. Lanny Bassham, who is a former Gold
Medal Olympic Athlete trains athletes on how to conquer the
mental game. He trains guys like me who shoot this sport
seriously. He trains Golfers, NFL players and more. I don't
know if I can add more to it than he already has expounded
on, but I am going to try and keep it simple. When all else
fails I always resort to the KISS method (Keep it simple
stupid).
The one thing I wish everyone of my students would take
to heart, would be the simple statement: "Think like a
Champion". At the bottom of my logo on everyone of my
emails it states "Awaken the Champion Inside You". I believe
I am much more than a shooting instructor, I am a life coach
who uses the medium available to me. In this case it is Skeet
and Clay Target Shooting. I am trying to awaken the
Champion who comes to me for shooting lessons. I believe
that I must instill in each one of my students, the
see A Winning Mindset on page 22
POTENTIAL NEW
WORLD RECORD
(SCI) BOW KILL ELK
by D. Shane Stevens
WHEN I WAS PICKING up some mounts at Comal
Taxidermy Studio this spring, I saw some of the most
impressive whitetail racks I have EVER seen. I asked where
they came from and they said they have an outfitter service
called Helluva Hunt that books hunts in Saskatchewan
where the average deer shot is 172”, so that is where we
went…. Mike, Benny, Seth and I headed up there last Friday
and got back yesterday and the results are in! The pictures
speak for themselves but just in case they don't, I would have
to say is the most unbelievable big game hunt I have ever
been on.
I will admit, it got off to a rocky start. We flew Continental
up to Edmonton, Canada and upon arrival, only Benny,s and
Mike's guns and luggage showed up. Seth's luggage arrived,
but his gun did not. As for me, neither my bow, nor my
luggage arrived! I really thought it had to be some sort of
joke. Of course, I was the only one bow hunting out of our
group and my scent lock suits/ scent lock boots, all washed
in scent eliminating detergent, in a scent lock bag, were in
my case along with all of the other necessities for bow
hunting such as my range finder, face camo, camo gloves,
which still allow me to shoot my bow…. It was the most
helpless feeling I can ever recall. We went back and forth with
Continental and they said our bags would be in that night
and we could pick them up the following morning. The
following morning (when we were supposed to be driving to
the hunting lodge to arrive at noon), they still did not have
the luggage/bow so we waited until 2:00 PM and finally Seth's
bag arrived along with my bow. However, my bag with all of
my clothes, range finder… still DID NOT ARRIVE! They said
they were not sure what happened to my bow and would look
into it. We headed out to get to the lodge and called back to
see if my luggage had arrived. Long story short, I did not get
my clothes and most of my hunting gear until the last day of
see World Record Elk on page 22
our hunt. I received the run around from Continental and
even after explaining the importance of getting my bag, they
refused to send a driver to bring it out to the lodge and would
only be willing to put it on a bus which would take it an extra
half day…. The comical part about this is that I was without
all of my specialized gear that I usually feel I cannot hunt
without and I was forced to beg and borrow from the other
hunters, guides, and camera man to piece an outfit
together. I ended up getting some broadheads from our the
owner of the operation, wore my Addidas running shoes,
borrowed pants and socks from Mike, a shirt from Seth, a hat
from Benny, rangefinder from our camera man. Fortunately
the cold weather had not kicked in or I truly would have been
out of luck! Anyway, perseverance paid off and many thanks
to everyone for helping me piece together a hunting outfit.
First off, the pictures are of an elk they referred to as
“The Giant Typical.” We saw his sheds at the lodge from the
previous year and they were by far the largest set of sheds I
had ever held. They hunted him last year but could not close
the deal. We saw him on the first morning when we were
spotting for deer and I could not believe my eyes. I went up
there solely to hunt whitetail but after seeing him I spoke
with the owner of the outfitter about hunting him and gained
permission. After lunch on the Northern Saskatchewan River
we geared up to try to find him. We figured he had bedded
down in the valley he was heading into so we tried for an
hour or two to find him with no luck. When we were about to
give up we saw him at the far end of the valley and watched
him go into an aspen grove/bog area. We devised a plan to
stalk in and have someone push through to see if I could get
a shot at him with my bow when he came out. He blew out of
there at about 200 mph and I did not get a shot. They
watched him from the top of the ridge and he went a mile or
so into another thicket area. Anthony, our camera man, and I
went to the edge of where we thought he would be and set up
in a Double Bull blind. After a few hours, and probably 20
minutes before sunset, he came out 30 yards from us! He
looked the other way and I was somehow able to calm myself
enough to draw back and take a shot. The Giant Typical
lunged and took a few steps then stopped and started
looking around. All I could figure was that he was hurt bad
or I had missed, and either way he must not have heard my
bow. Not wanting to take any chances, I knocked another
arrow and let it fly. He tried to lunge or run and fell after two
steps. I could not believe the biggest elk I had ever laid eyes
on was mine, only 15 yds from where I first shot him with a
BOW! It later turns out both arrows were pass through shots
that went within an inch of each other through the center of
his heart. The Giant Typical scored 480” the first time we
scored him and 481” the second count. Even with the drying
period, this bull has a good shot at being the next World
Record Typical Archery bull (SCI)! The old record which
scored 463” and was shot in 2008 or 2009 should be beat by
a fairly solid margin.
Unbelievably the story gets better. Seth (now Sethtor)
took a whitetail the following morning that scored 215”.
Mike took one the evening before our last day which
presently has conflicting scores. Mike's latest score has him
at 216” but I think he may be trying to win our Big Buck
Contest. On our last evening there, I took one that scored
210.” We named him Three Forks off of a trail cam picture the
guides had of him, but realized he actually had five forks
see World Record Elk on page 24
A Winning Mindset continued
fundamentals necessary to win in life. If you think about it,
the fundamentals are the same:
1. Keep your head down (on the gun)
2. Keep your eye on the target (or the prize)
3. Follow through (with everything you do) 4. Think like a
Champion (positive focus)
Everything we do in life should be approached with
these fundamentals in mind. Nothing truly great ever
happened for anyone who did not persevere. If you lift your
head up to see what might be better somewhere else,
sometimes it can cost you. If you take your attention off your
goals and compromise, you may get less than expected out
of life. If you fail to follow through on your commitments and
give things a half-hearted effort, then that is what you will get
in return. Oh, you might occasionally be rewarded but not to
the level you are capable of.
Think like a Champion...If we always see ourselves as
something less, then that is exactly what we will be. If we
could just imagine ourselves as the winners that we were
born to be, then we would be fantastic Parents, Teachers,
Lawyers, Politicians, Nurses, Doctors, Carpenters, and Skeet
Shooters. We would become Champions at life itself...caring
about others and showing others how to become their best.
It's a lifestyle choice.
Many of you are already growing this "Winning mindset"
in someone else. I commend you for your efforts and
encourage you to keep up the great work!
See you in the winner's circle soon! O
PORCINE PURSUIT
by Larry Hassell
What’s missing from this
hunter’s big game safari?
We make sure you AND you
firearms arrive at your
destination ... worldwide. Period.
Oh, and we are
competively priced too!
210-858-9833
[email protected]
HAVE GUNS? CAN TRAVEL!
THE ONCE DELAYED SCI Austin sponsored feral
hog hunt was conducted on October 1. We had been
delayed from a June schedule, due to serious health
issues with landowner, Jack Dahlstrom, but happily Jack
is doing great once again. Flat Creek Wildlife conducted
the hunt at Jack Dahlstrom's beautiful Onion Creek
Ranch, just southeast of Austin. Our hunt was prefaced
by a hearty lunch of bison burgers. Altogether the 13
hunters who participated shot 9 hogs, even one large
boar taken with archery equipment by SCI Austin
member, Allen Hansen.
It was particularly heartening to see that several
young people were able to enjoy the hunt. SCI Austin
has a long history of finding ways to get young people
into the outdoors, including support of organizations
including Texas Youth Hunting Program, Kids Outdoor
Zone, and Operation Orphans. It was a great time for all
involved.
Onion Creek Ranch not only has an ample supply of
feral hogs but offers terrific hunting for trophy whitetail
deer and numerous species of exotic game from several
continents. Also, turkey hunts and other bird hunts are
available. It is a great resource only minutes from
Austin city limits. O
see Porcine Pursuit on page 23
Porcine Pursuit continued
www.sciaustin.org
SCI-First for Hunters
Austin Chapter
PO Box 160306
Austin, TX 78716-0306
World Record Elk continued
once we got him. The way it unfolded, I was not necessarily
planning on shooting a deer with a rifle. Since it was our last
day there, and Benny was still hunting for his trophy, we were
doing some pushes and I was backing him up. Three Forks
popped up and Benny was not able to get a shot. I went with
the owner of the operation, Rob, to try to cut him off in case
he went down the hill top we were hunting on. When we
pulled out of the brush to get into a shooting position, he
was running straight for us. While my plan was to hunt
whitetail with my bow, I had told Rob if we saw a monster I
would take him with the rifle. Rob said, “ it is a “gagger”
SHOOT HIM”. I shot him on the run and we heard him stop in
the brush about 75 yards from us. Rob went in to see if he
was down and he busted out. It was a crazy chase and after a
few hours of pushing brush, and finding a couple of specks
of blood we found him bedded in a large valley called the
“Cahuna” and it was over. That evening Benny decided to
hunt elk and ended up with a bull that scored 372”.
I have to thank David Graham with Comal Taxidermy
Studio and Helluva Hunt Outfitters, who set us up and
coordinated the hunt for us from Texas. I have to thank Rob
who runs the hunts in Canada, Larry (me and Seth's guide),
Mike (Mike and Benny's guide) and Anthony (Cameraman)
for the amazing accommodations and tremendous results
from our hunt. You guys worked your tails off for us, the food
and accommodations were awesome and everything was
A+. For me and my boys to harvest three deer over 200”, a
372” bull and a 480” bull in one hunt is simply unheard of.
We will be hunting together again!! O