Title: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 10:39:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 10:39:00 AM
Gosh, Im really not even sure where to begin. It's truly incredible to meet guys on-line, chat on the phone and within a matter of a short period of time, fly across the country to share space in a fine hunting camp. That's exactly what has happened to make this weekend a reality.
Brian arrived on Thursday evening and before the real unpacking even begain, we were camo'd up and sneeking through Sherwood in pursuit of another great hunting adventure. I'll let Brian fill in all the details when he arrives home this evening but I'll share a few pics with you that will fill the void between then and now.
Once we arrived in Laredo, Brian got deep into hunt mode.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/brianstan.jpg)
After a short stint in the Sunshine, Brians snowbank tan turned a nice shade of pink and he decided to cover it with some camo. I dropped him off in a location I felt would produce him some pork and I continued to a spot I had seen and thought might produce something for me as well. I spent the afternoon thinking about the adventure Brian was surely having and I shot a few bunnies as I enjoyed the beautiful afternoon.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/IMG_0152n1nn2n.JPG)
Evening was fast approaching and Id chosen to walk a few roads and just enjoy myself. I so often get wrapped up in hardcore hunting that I sometime wish Id slowed down a bit and enjoyed what the countryside has to offer. This evening Id slow down and savor my time here. I afterall was there to watch Brians success. The guy's been working hard with his variety of jobs and needed a weekend to relax and enjoy the sport. I knew South Texas would offer up some magic for Brian and it didn't let either of us down. CK
Brian arrived on Thursday evening and before the real unpacking even begain, we were camo'd up and sneeking through Sherwood in pursuit of another great hunting adventure. I'll let Brian fill in all the details when he arrives home this evening but I'll share a few pics with you that will fill the void between then and now.
Once we arrived in Laredo, Brian got deep into hunt mode.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/brianstan.jpg)
After a short stint in the Sunshine, Brians snowbank tan turned a nice shade of pink and he decided to cover it with some camo. I dropped him off in a location I felt would produce him some pork and I continued to a spot I had seen and thought might produce something for me as well. I spent the afternoon thinking about the adventure Brian was surely having and I shot a few bunnies as I enjoyed the beautiful afternoon.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/IMG_0152n1nn2n.JPG)
Evening was fast approaching and Id chosen to walk a few roads and just enjoy myself. I so often get wrapped up in hardcore hunting that I sometime wish Id slowed down a bit and enjoyed what the countryside has to offer. This evening Id slow down and savor my time here. I afterall was there to watch Brians success. The guy's been working hard with his variety of jobs and needed a weekend to relax and enjoy the sport. I knew South Texas would offer up some magic for Brian and it didn't let either of us down. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: IB on March 06, 2006, 10:47:00 AM
Post by: IB on March 06, 2006, 10:47:00 AM
SWEEET....Let me get some corn and settle back theres a good un in the makin :bigsmyl: ..........vance
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Guru on March 06, 2006, 10:59:00 AM
Post by: Guru on March 06, 2006, 10:59:00 AM
Well alright,the story has begun!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: JC on March 06, 2006, 12:36:00 PM
Post by: JC on March 06, 2006, 12:36:00 PM
Now we're talkin!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Marvin M. on March 06, 2006, 12:38:00 PM
Post by: Marvin M. on March 06, 2006, 12:38:00 PM
Bring on the story!! Where's the Pork!!!!
Marvin
Marvin
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: IB on March 06, 2006, 01:00:00 PM
Post by: IB on March 06, 2006, 01:00:00 PM
We need MORE WOOD for this fire !["[tunglaff]"]("graemlins/tunglaff.gif" "\"\"")
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 01:26:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 01:26:00 PM
The thoughts of Brian kept creaping back into my mind every time a saw another game animal. It was somewhat ironic that when I dropped Brian off at his hunt location there were already javelina running around that area of the ranch. Brian had never seen a javelina or a hog in his hunting carreer and I knew both species were about to show themselves to him.
Back on my end of the ranch about a mile south of Brian, game seemed to be at every turn. Bunnies presented themselves frequently and for a change of pace, my shooting was incredibly accurate. I kept thinking to myself that if I shot this well all the time I may not have to practice as hard. Id chosen to spot and stalk roads this first evening in leu of sitting at a feeder or water hole. Like I said, I really just wanted to savor all the Southland has to offer up. As the daylight begain to fade I looked around a bend in the road. PIGS! Pigs by the truckload. I think there were over 25-30 pigs in one group and they were at a quickened pace in my direction. As they closed the 80 yard gap in my direction, I tucked myself behind a creosote shrub between two cactus and the pigs continued along noisily. The lucky thing for me was that the pigs had given me time to shuck out of my backpack, draw an arrow and get really comfortable kneeling back on my boot heals. It was as comfortable position as I could have asked for. Wind direction full in check, Mark Horne Brushbow strung and tuned, AD Traditional tipped with a 190 Ribteck sharp as a rasor. All they had to do was continue the path they were on and all Id have to do is drop the string. With the noise of a freight train they continued and as the gap started to close, my heart begain to rise in my chest, my ears began the familiar ringing and my mouth became dry as sand. The brush around me came alive with movment, the smell of swine filled the air and as if in a magic scene from the movies, a pig appears. The familiar feeling of the brushbow's string slipped away and the triumph of achievment replaced the clouds of self-doubt. Id once agin lived the dreams of a thousand years of archery. I knew all to well the feeling of all those bow weilders from the pages of archery's past. Incredible!!!!! And Brian is just across the ranch filling his own dreams at the same exact
moment.
(pics to come)
Back on my end of the ranch about a mile south of Brian, game seemed to be at every turn. Bunnies presented themselves frequently and for a change of pace, my shooting was incredibly accurate. I kept thinking to myself that if I shot this well all the time I may not have to practice as hard. Id chosen to spot and stalk roads this first evening in leu of sitting at a feeder or water hole. Like I said, I really just wanted to savor all the Southland has to offer up. As the daylight begain to fade I looked around a bend in the road. PIGS! Pigs by the truckload. I think there were over 25-30 pigs in one group and they were at a quickened pace in my direction. As they closed the 80 yard gap in my direction, I tucked myself behind a creosote shrub between two cactus and the pigs continued along noisily. The lucky thing for me was that the pigs had given me time to shuck out of my backpack, draw an arrow and get really comfortable kneeling back on my boot heals. It was as comfortable position as I could have asked for. Wind direction full in check, Mark Horne Brushbow strung and tuned, AD Traditional tipped with a 190 Ribteck sharp as a rasor. All they had to do was continue the path they were on and all Id have to do is drop the string. With the noise of a freight train they continued and as the gap started to close, my heart begain to rise in my chest, my ears began the familiar ringing and my mouth became dry as sand. The brush around me came alive with movment, the smell of swine filled the air and as if in a magic scene from the movies, a pig appears. The familiar feeling of the brushbow's string slipped away and the triumph of achievment replaced the clouds of self-doubt. Id once agin lived the dreams of a thousand years of archery. I knew all to well the feeling of all those bow weilders from the pages of archery's past. Incredible!!!!! And Brian is just across the ranch filling his own dreams at the same exact
moment.
(pics to come)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Firstarrow on March 06, 2006, 01:30:00 PM
Post by: Firstarrow on March 06, 2006, 01:30:00 PM
Keep it coming...
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: TexMex on March 06, 2006, 01:44:00 PM
Post by: TexMex on March 06, 2006, 01:44:00 PM
Oh yeah, keep it coming....
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 02:25:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 02:25:00 PM
Well, I'd pretty much made up my mind that I wasn't going to be trophy hunting on this trip and I thought I try for any pig that entered my shooting lane. Sometime the emphisis on success is the key to success itself. Id later have this taught to me yet again as I took pics of a trophy hog when I should have been shooting him. Ha! I suppose I actually did shoot him and now the shot, although on film counted just as much.
Back to the tracking job at hand. As I released the arrow, the pig was standing as pretty as a picture. My nerves were solid and my release smooth as silk. At the slightest sound of the string dropping, the hog went to spin away, increasing the 1/4ing angle to a much steeper degree. How much sweeter could it get? Sometime the Bow Gods do smile! Within a short distance I heard the pig crash. I knew he was donw close but he'd chosen the thickest, most dense, most thorny, exit he could have chosen. Humm? No blood as I looked around. When the pig had started his turn, increasing the angle, he'd taken the arrow directly in front of the back leg and the broadhead had stopped with just the tip exiting the front of the offside shoulder. After a 20 minute crawl in circles, gathering thorns in every concievable place, I locate my quary. 55-60 yards from the impact and he was done. I was laying flat on my belly when I found him but I was grinning ear to ear. CK
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/IMG_0154n1nn2n.JPG)
Back to the tracking job at hand. As I released the arrow, the pig was standing as pretty as a picture. My nerves were solid and my release smooth as silk. At the slightest sound of the string dropping, the hog went to spin away, increasing the 1/4ing angle to a much steeper degree. How much sweeter could it get? Sometime the Bow Gods do smile! Within a short distance I heard the pig crash. I knew he was donw close but he'd chosen the thickest, most dense, most thorny, exit he could have chosen. Humm? No blood as I looked around. When the pig had started his turn, increasing the angle, he'd taken the arrow directly in front of the back leg and the broadhead had stopped with just the tip exiting the front of the offside shoulder. After a 20 minute crawl in circles, gathering thorns in every concievable place, I locate my quary. 55-60 yards from the impact and he was done. I was laying flat on my belly when I found him but I was grinning ear to ear. CK
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/IMG_0154n1nn2n.JPG)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Marvin M. on March 06, 2006, 02:29:00 PM
Post by: Marvin M. on March 06, 2006, 02:29:00 PM
Nice picture Curtis. You do a good job of setting those up.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: kyle on March 06, 2006, 03:00:00 PM
Post by: kyle on March 06, 2006, 03:00:00 PM
SWEET Curtis. Good job. lets hear your side Brian.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 03:10:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 03:10:00 PM
He won't be home till evening Kyle. Believe me, he has plenty to tell. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Guru on March 06, 2006, 03:20:00 PM
Post by: Guru on March 06, 2006, 03:20:00 PM
Way to go bro...congrats on another fine evening..I can't wait to get to TX!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: LV2HUNT on March 06, 2006, 03:25:00 PM
Post by: LV2HUNT on March 06, 2006, 03:25:00 PM
Your pictures and story telling are excellent Curtis. Thanks for sharing with all us less fortunate Northerners.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: IB on March 06, 2006, 04:38:00 PM
Post by: IB on March 06, 2006, 04:38:00 PM
Way to coool Curtis :scared:
:readit: ...........vance
:readit: ...........vance
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Terry Green on March 06, 2006, 04:52:00 PM
Post by: Terry Green on March 06, 2006, 04:52:00 PM
QuoteOriginally posted by Marvin M.:Yeah Marvin......he's had a lot of practice that's for sure.
Nice picture Curtis. You do a good job of setting those up.
Thanks for sharing yet again Curtis....looking forward to hearing Brian's tales.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: rabbitman on March 06, 2006, 04:54:00 PM
Post by: rabbitman on March 06, 2006, 04:54:00 PM
Great story and cool pics Curtis. I'm going to be hunting that area at the end of May. Don't like hearing about all those thorns and stickers. :scared: Guess they just go with the territory. Now let's hear from Brian.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 05:14:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 06, 2006, 05:14:00 PM
Thank you guys! Yall make the tellin worth while. Gotta go now. Stage is yours Brian. Knock, knock, knock, you in there????? CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: the Ferret on March 06, 2006, 05:46:00 PM
Post by: the Ferret on March 06, 2006, 05:46:00 PM
Dandy black pig CK! When it comes to hog huntin..you obviously the man (on the west coast... I think Warren may give you a run though on the East coast)
:thumbsup:
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Doug Campbell on March 06, 2006, 05:52:00 PM
Post by: Doug Campbell on March 06, 2006, 05:52:00 PM
Yep another one of those rare black hogs :D Good'n CK, c'mon Brian....
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Shaun on March 06, 2006, 05:58:00 PM
Post by: Shaun on March 06, 2006, 05:58:00 PM
Come on Brian, don't save it all for the magazine. Say hi to the wife and kiddies, then hit that keyboard.
Nice pics CK and the usual good story tellin. Weather looks like T sweat warm.
Nice pics CK and the usual good story tellin. Weather looks like T sweat warm.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: DIAMONDBACK on March 06, 2006, 06:51:00 PM
Post by: DIAMONDBACK on March 06, 2006, 06:51:00 PM
Nice job!I am jeolus as #@%#!I wont see a green leaf for another 2.5 months,can hunt stumps then too.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Joseph on March 06, 2006, 07:02:00 PM
Post by: Joseph on March 06, 2006, 07:02:00 PM
These are great! No better way to get worked up and get the mind thinking about how to get another hunting trip setup. Joseph
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: beachbowhunter on March 06, 2006, 07:10:00 PM
Post by: beachbowhunter on March 06, 2006, 07:10:00 PM
quote:
Originally posted by the Ferret:
Dandy black pig CK! When it comes to hog huntin..you obviously the man (on the west coast... I think Warren may give you a run though on the East coast)
:bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: tms on March 06, 2006, 07:19:00 PM
Post by: tms on March 06, 2006, 07:19:00 PM
Yeah, last time I looked, the Gulf of Mexico was on the right hand side of the continent.
Tom
Tom
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 06, 2006, 07:44:00 PM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 06, 2006, 07:44:00 PM
Ya know Curtis this tradgang site has gotten you writing so much that you are actually getting very darn good at it. That ole school marm that taught you english in school probably already told you that would happen. Brian did look a little white in that pic...ain't fair giving him a head start on a tan. I and many others await patiently to hear the story....c'mon Brian...Don't suppose some of those shadows crossing those roads and running through the brush done took him with them...Mac~
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 06, 2006, 07:47:00 PM
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 06, 2006, 07:47:00 PM
Great story Curtis, and a great pic to boot! Can't wait to hear more.
David
David
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Roadkill on March 06, 2006, 07:56:00 PM
Post by: Roadkill on March 06, 2006, 07:56:00 PM
palms all sweaty just reading the adventure.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Pinecone on March 06, 2006, 08:01:00 PM
Post by: Pinecone on March 06, 2006, 08:01:00 PM
Awesome! There's only one thing missing in those pics...the rest of aren't there! Oh well, I guess some us just hafta work fer a livin :bigsmyl:
Claudia
Claudia
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Horne's Archery on March 06, 2006, 10:53:00 PM
Post by: Horne's Archery on March 06, 2006, 10:53:00 PM
Great story Curtis,congrats on your hog.
Mark
Mark
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 06, 2006, 11:27:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 06, 2006, 11:27:00 PM
Man it was nice going from 20s to 80s in the temp department. Took in lots of sun, ice cold Mexican beer and, oh yeah we did some hunting.
Story to follow fellas. Sorry, been a long day. Airline lost one of my bags, with my camera in it to boot. They were supposed to deliver it tonight but nothing so far. I'll update ya'll tomorrow. Not even that can put a damper on the great week I just had though!
Trip was a huge success. Just getting the chance to meet Curtis and his wonderful wife Debbie was worth the trip alone. Curtis and I had a great time chasing critters. It will be hard to find any one or any place that tops Curtis' hospitality, him and Debbie made me feel at home. Like I've known them all my life. Thanks again Curtis and Debbie.
Dang it I forgot the cheese cake Debbie packed for me, man am I in trouble!
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Story to follow fellas. Sorry, been a long day. Airline lost one of my bags, with my camera in it to boot. They were supposed to deliver it tonight but nothing so far. I'll update ya'll tomorrow. Not even that can put a damper on the great week I just had though!
Trip was a huge success. Just getting the chance to meet Curtis and his wonderful wife Debbie was worth the trip alone. Curtis and I had a great time chasing critters. It will be hard to find any one or any place that tops Curtis' hospitality, him and Debbie made me feel at home. Like I've known them all my life. Thanks again Curtis and Debbie.
Dang it I forgot the cheese cake Debbie packed for me, man am I in trouble!
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 06, 2006, 11:38:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 06, 2006, 11:38:00 PM
Just got a call from Delta, they found my bag. Wanted to deliver it in a couple of hours. Nice of them to wait until 11 PM to ask, ha ha. I told them to drop it off in the morning. I'll have my camera but if you can't wait, Curtis downloaded my camera too. He'll probably make you suffer though :D
OK, going to bed. A few days of chasing pigs and javies wears a guy out, not to mention retrieving game from thickets I wouldn't send my lab into, straining my neck to look at all the deer, coyotes, quail, etc., doing the breast stroke in the red Texas dirt to get away from an 8+ foot blue indigo (spelling?) I could go on, and I will. Talk to you all soon.
Just for the record, I'm glad I was on the good side of Curtis and his bow. That Texas boy can shoot. Them darn poor south Texas critters, they hate it when Curtis "Killer" comes to Laredo...
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
OK, going to bed. A few days of chasing pigs and javies wears a guy out, not to mention retrieving game from thickets I wouldn't send my lab into, straining my neck to look at all the deer, coyotes, quail, etc., doing the breast stroke in the red Texas dirt to get away from an 8+ foot blue indigo (spelling?) I could go on, and I will. Talk to you all soon.
Just for the record, I'm glad I was on the good side of Curtis and his bow. That Texas boy can shoot. Them darn poor south Texas critters, they hate it when Curtis "Killer" comes to Laredo...
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: cjones on March 06, 2006, 11:58:00 PM
Post by: cjones on March 06, 2006, 11:58:00 PM
Congrats CK! I'm with Dick. I ain't looking foreward to all those thorns and stickers.
Brian, Sounds like you had a great hunt. Can't wait to see the pics.
Brian, Sounds like you had a great hunt. Can't wait to see the pics.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: the Ferret on March 07, 2006, 07:13:00 AM
Post by: the Ferret on March 07, 2006, 07:13:00 AM
Never nevrer never put anything valuable in a checked bag. Dang brian.
Do you know the airline industry loses 10,000 bags PER DAY!
Never put anything in a checked bag that you would seriously miss.
other than that can't wait to hear the stories and see the pics. Glad ya hada good time.
Ahh the bennies of being a big time publisher :rolleyes:
Do you know the airline industry loses 10,000 bags PER DAY!
Never put anything in a checked bag that you would seriously miss.
other than that can't wait to hear the stories and see the pics. Glad ya hada good time.
Ahh the bennies of being a big time publisher :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 09:37:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 09:37:00 AM
Good to see ya made it home Brian. Now, Get on with the tellin! :D These folks are waitin on your adventure story. :readit:
Brian enjoys the newfound countryside.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/BRIANCACTUS.jpg)
I took a few minutes to get Mark Horne some pics as well.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/cactusbow.jpg)
I'll post more pics when Brian gets caught up. CK
Brian enjoys the newfound countryside.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/BRIANCACTUS.jpg)
I took a few minutes to get Mark Horne some pics as well.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/cactusbow.jpg)
I'll post more pics when Brian gets caught up. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 10:22:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 10:22:00 AM
You know Mickey, I've always heard stories about lost luggage but I've been on a plane on average of twice a year for the last 10 years and I never had a bag lost. I guess I just got too comfortable.
That and the fact that Curtis and I did some shopping in Laredo and I had a pinata for my daughter and a ceramic rabbit for my wife which I carried on the plane and put everything else in my duffel. Lesson learned, thank goodness they found the bag and called.
I'd be interesting in hearing more about the benefits of big time publishers, I don't know any of them :confused: I do know one who is just getting by however :bigsmyl:
OK I'm holding the one year old and she wants to eat and the 4 year old wants to show me something. I will continue later once my camera gets here.
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
That and the fact that Curtis and I did some shopping in Laredo and I had a pinata for my daughter and a ceramic rabbit for my wife which I carried on the plane and put everything else in my duffel. Lesson learned, thank goodness they found the bag and called.
I'd be interesting in hearing more about the benefits of big time publishers, I don't know any of them :confused: I do know one who is just getting by however :bigsmyl:
OK I'm holding the one year old and she wants to eat and the 4 year old wants to show me something. I will continue later once my camera gets here.
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 11:53:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 11:53:00 AM
The duffel bag is here and the girls are happy for the moment. I'll try to get started.
OK, arrived at Littlefeather's last Thursday after a pleasant drive through south Texas from the San Antonio airport. As I got closer to his place, I could see that this was my kind of place...wide open spaces :archer:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisshop.jpg)
Curtis emerged from the bow shop when I pulled into the driveway. He and his wife Debbie have a beautiful homestead in Runge (pronounced "rung-E") TX. Introductions were made and almost immediately we were getting ready to start roving behind the house. Debbie pulled up shortly thereafter with a pile of groceries and was telling me what was for dinner. Man I LOVE this place!
We headed out on Curtis' property to shoot and get acquainted.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtis.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisburro.jpg)
OK, arrived at Littlefeather's last Thursday after a pleasant drive through south Texas from the San Antonio airport. As I got closer to his place, I could see that this was my kind of place...wide open spaces :archer:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisshop.jpg)
Curtis emerged from the bow shop when I pulled into the driveway. He and his wife Debbie have a beautiful homestead in Runge (pronounced "rung-E") TX. Introductions were made and almost immediately we were getting ready to start roving behind the house. Debbie pulled up shortly thereafter with a pile of groceries and was telling me what was for dinner. Man I LOVE this place!
We headed out on Curtis' property to shoot and get acquainted.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtis.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisburro.jpg)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: mike g on March 07, 2006, 12:01:00 PM
Post by: mike g on March 07, 2006, 12:01:00 PM
Hey Curtis....
Nice picture of your DUV....(Donkey utility vehicle)....
Nice picture of your DUV....(Donkey utility vehicle)....
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 12:12:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 12:12:00 PM
Nice "Ass"! :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 12:14:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 12:14:00 PM
We spent the evening launching arrows and chatting. We harrassed some of the local small game but didn't connect with anything...until Curtis spied a large coon at the top of a tree.
He made a good target and after a barrage of arrows decided he had enough and jumped down for his escape. Curtis and I took off like hunting dogs after the coon. It was quite apparent that our arrows had slowed him down because Curtis caught up to the coon and attempted to deliver a steel toe coup de grace but the racoon ducked the blow and kept going.
It ran through the brush and ended up in front of me on the trail. I was running full speed next to the coon and even managed to get another blunt at him. That didn't stop him so I rolled him with the tip of my longbow. I went for my knife but the coon found his feet and was off again, this time for good.
Between laughing and running at full speed, we were both nearly in need of transportation back to the house. We semi caught our breath and started making our way back to the house since it was getting dark.
Curtis made a mesquite fire in the off set cooker and soon marinated shrimp were on the bbq. Debbie made a wonderful pot of sausage, potatoes and corn on the cob. What a delicious meal we had that night.
We had a few hour drive to Laredo in the morning and it wasn't long before we turned in for the night.
He made a good target and after a barrage of arrows decided he had enough and jumped down for his escape. Curtis and I took off like hunting dogs after the coon. It was quite apparent that our arrows had slowed him down because Curtis caught up to the coon and attempted to deliver a steel toe coup de grace but the racoon ducked the blow and kept going.
It ran through the brush and ended up in front of me on the trail. I was running full speed next to the coon and even managed to get another blunt at him. That didn't stop him so I rolled him with the tip of my longbow. I went for my knife but the coon found his feet and was off again, this time for good.
Between laughing and running at full speed, we were both nearly in need of transportation back to the house. We semi caught our breath and started making our way back to the house since it was getting dark.
Curtis made a mesquite fire in the off set cooker and soon marinated shrimp were on the bbq. Debbie made a wonderful pot of sausage, potatoes and corn on the cob. What a delicious meal we had that night.
We had a few hour drive to Laredo in the morning and it wasn't long before we turned in for the night.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: IB on March 07, 2006, 12:57:00 PM
Post by: IB on March 07, 2006, 12:57:00 PM
Gotta LOVE the part about the FOOD :bigsmyl:
KEEP IT COMMIN :D
KEEP IT COMMIN :D
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 01:29:00 PM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 01:29:00 PM
Egads....I would go there for the food alone....Mac~ MORE............
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: **DONOTDELETE** on March 07, 2006, 02:01:00 PM
Post by: **DONOTDELETE** on March 07, 2006, 02:01:00 PM
Thorns and stickers? :bigsmyl: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Marvin M. on March 07, 2006, 02:10:00 PM
Post by: Marvin M. on March 07, 2006, 02:10:00 PM
Yeah, I still get an occaisionaly sticker out of some of my gear from my trip down there last June!!!
Nothing like a little reminder of your Texas visit.
Nothing like a little reminder of your Texas visit.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:23:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:23:00 PM
OK, OK off to Laredo we go the next morning. The landscape gets more and more interesting and at times we are the only vehicle in sight on these long, straight, desolate roads. We stopped at a rest area for a break and some pictures.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisrest.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisroad.jpg)
We made a few more pit stops for gas and groceries. We grabbed some Jacala salsa which turned out to be some of the best salsa I ever tasted.
3 hours later we were at the ranch near Laredo. As you saw from the first picture, I immediately plopped down in the sun for a while. What a great camp. Somehow I managed to forget to snap a picture of the place. Bunks with matresses, air conditioning, hot water for the shower and sink, stove, couches and even sattelite TV. Yes, roughing it for sure :D
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisrest.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisroad.jpg)
We made a few more pit stops for gas and groceries. We grabbed some Jacala salsa which turned out to be some of the best salsa I ever tasted.
3 hours later we were at the ranch near Laredo. As you saw from the first picture, I immediately plopped down in the sun for a while. What a great camp. Somehow I managed to forget to snap a picture of the place. Bunks with matresses, air conditioning, hot water for the shower and sink, stove, couches and even sattelite TV. Yes, roughing it for sure :D
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:28:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:28:00 PM
Curtis tried to control his predatory instinct while I lounged in the sun and before you know it, he talked me out of that chair for a scouting trip.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtispear.jpg)
Check out this hunting rig!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtistruck.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtispear.jpg)
Check out this hunting rig!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtistruck.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:44:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:44:00 PM
Before long we decided where we would be hunting and returned shortly after to settle in for the evening hunt.
As we pulled up to my area, we saw 4 javelinas in the brush. We corned the road and Curtis dropped me off to head to his spot. I didn't even have a few steps from the truck when the javies walked out 30 yards in front of me onto the road. The closest one looked at me but kept eating. I stayed still until I was able to get close to the brush for background cover.
They were feeding away from me and moving faster than I realized. I was able to stay within 30 yards of them but the shot never felt right for me so I held off. I won't shoot deer at that distance and I didn't want to try on a smaller target.
There was a ladder stand in the area and a feeder which was set to go off just before dark. (For those of you who don't know, corning roads and feeders are legal hunting methods in Texas. It's not a slam dunk like some people think either, I'll explain later) I decided to climb up in the stand to get a birds eye view of the landscape.
The javies came back out shortly afterwards but only one was within bow range and well protected by tree limbs. There were only 2 shooting lanes from this stand and he never walked through either.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisjavie.jpg)
You can see the other 3 at the top of this picture further up the road:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisjavie2.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
As we pulled up to my area, we saw 4 javelinas in the brush. We corned the road and Curtis dropped me off to head to his spot. I didn't even have a few steps from the truck when the javies walked out 30 yards in front of me onto the road. The closest one looked at me but kept eating. I stayed still until I was able to get close to the brush for background cover.
They were feeding away from me and moving faster than I realized. I was able to stay within 30 yards of them but the shot never felt right for me so I held off. I won't shoot deer at that distance and I didn't want to try on a smaller target.
There was a ladder stand in the area and a feeder which was set to go off just before dark. (For those of you who don't know, corning roads and feeders are legal hunting methods in Texas. It's not a slam dunk like some people think either, I'll explain later) I decided to climb up in the stand to get a birds eye view of the landscape.
The javies came back out shortly afterwards but only one was within bow range and well protected by tree limbs. There were only 2 shooting lanes from this stand and he never walked through either.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisjavie.jpg)
You can see the other 3 at the top of this picture further up the road:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisjavie2.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: bayoulongbowman on March 07, 2006, 02:52:00 PM
Post by: bayoulongbowman on March 07, 2006, 02:52:00 PM
aFTER kATRINA , those pics look inviting ...thats got to be a blast!!!!!!!!marco#78
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:52:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 02:52:00 PM
The javies worked their way up the road. There were deer passing by all evening, putting on a show along with all of the beautiful birds of south Texas. I especially liked the road runners and the green jays (like blue jays but with tropical greens and yellows). At one point, some critter started screaming as a howling chorus of coyotes harmonized along. I heard one bark right behind me and turned to see it crossing the road in the direction of the howls to see what his friends had caught. Man this place is cool.
Just before dark, the feeder went off and about 10 minutes later I spied a huge wild pig heading for the feeder. There was a 20 yard shooting lane to the feeder but the big pig came in from the far side straight on, watching the stand the whole time and never turning for a shot. He left the same way he came.
Yep these Texas pigs are stupid and easy to kill with corn :rolleyes:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Just before dark, the feeder went off and about 10 minutes later I spied a huge wild pig heading for the feeder. There was a 20 yard shooting lane to the feeder but the big pig came in from the far side straight on, watching the stand the whole time and never turning for a shot. He left the same way he came.
Yep these Texas pigs are stupid and easy to kill with corn :rolleyes:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 03:00:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 03:00:00 PM
Green jay:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisjay.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisjay.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 03:03:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 03:03:00 PM
I was pretty much just observing and taking it all in that first evening, probably being a little too conservative but I wanted to get familiar with the animals, their environment and their behavior.
More to come...
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
More to come...
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 03:06:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 03:06:00 PM
Curtis was his usual "killer" self though and not conservative as he did a spot and stalk to get in front of a group of pigs in his area.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtishog.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtishog.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 03:16:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 03:16:00 PM
Great pics Brian! I didn't realize you had all those. Oooohhhhh the hot sauce is still grenade bombing my guts. I can do without any of that stuff for awhile. Good but long-term-deadly!!!! I'll chime in for the morning hunt. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Marvin M. on March 07, 2006, 03:48:00 PM
Post by: Marvin M. on March 07, 2006, 03:48:00 PM
Brian,
Pretty cool with the Javies. I didn't see any when I was there and that is what I wanted to see most of all.
As far as pigs being stupid. I only saw one like that while I was there, and I succeeded in educating her.
That place is just crawling with wildlife, and I suspect you and I may have had a visit from the same long, skinny visitor.
I had a blast down there!!!
Pretty cool with the Javies. I didn't see any when I was there and that is what I wanted to see most of all.
As far as pigs being stupid. I only saw one like that while I was there, and I succeeded in educating her.
That place is just crawling with wildlife, and I suspect you and I may have had a visit from the same long, skinny visitor.
I had a blast down there!!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: NorthShoreLB on March 07, 2006, 04:33:00 PM
Post by: NorthShoreLB on March 07, 2006, 04:33:00 PM
Super thread guys !! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Manny
Manny
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 07, 2006, 04:57:00 PM
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 07, 2006, 04:57:00 PM
I'm liking everything in this story so far, except that little something about that blue thing that was eight feet long.....I think I could do without that one thank you very much :scared:
David
David
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: JEFFRO on March 07, 2006, 05:21:00 PM
Post by: JEFFRO on March 07, 2006, 05:21:00 PM
It must be a special place, ta have tree's big enough to put a ladder stand in.
good story, keepitcomen'
good story, keepitcomen'
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 05:24:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 05:24:00 PM
Please understand that Brian was baiting for snakes. :D He was thwacking rabbits and chasing them into the bushes. That draws out the brush monsters! :scared:
The one Marvin saw on his trip was in excess of 10'... The one Brian saw was just a baby. LOL! ck
The one Marvin saw on his trip was in excess of 10'... The one Brian saw was just a baby. LOL! ck
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 07, 2006, 05:36:00 PM
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 07, 2006, 05:36:00 PM
The day I see something like that Curtis is the day you will see this..... :help: ! I'm afraid I might be the bait!
David(Snake free in New Hampshire)
David(Snake free in New Hampshire)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 05:58:00 PM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 05:58:00 PM
8-10 foot snakes??????????? :scared: I ain't seen nothing that long since the zoo. Black racers where the longest we ever run into and I have killed 52 inch rattlesnakes which are really big up here. What kind of snakes are they. You and Brian are So Brave :rolleyes: My heroes :D Let's keep the story going...it's good so far..........Mac~
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Shaun on March 07, 2006, 06:34:00 PM
Post by: Shaun on March 07, 2006, 06:34:00 PM
Indigos are our frinds, they were imported to this area to eat rattlesnakes. Saw one at Cadena that was at least 12'. Its those diamond patterned bow backing buzz bombs that you don't want to be surprized by.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 07:05:00 PM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 07:05:00 PM
I don't fear rattlers but do respect them. We used to hunt them when we had them but civilization has won that battle up here. They are actually protected here. Just the size freaks me out..that's long. Got to get your attention fast. I always thought of the desert country as blah but between pics of the hunt wingnut, AZ, Rusty, Frret,etc has shared with us and the pics I get to see now so often from Curtis I can tell you I see it in a whole new light. It has a beauty all its own ...........Mac~
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Paul R on March 07, 2006, 07:37:00 PM
Post by: Paul R on March 07, 2006, 07:37:00 PM
Hey CK, show us a pic of that trophy hog that you didn't get a shot at. :D
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: IB on March 07, 2006, 07:44:00 PM
Post by: IB on March 07, 2006, 07:44:00 PM
Let's hear some more about the FOOD.. stuff :scared: Forget them crawley things :banghead: :banghead:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Doug Campbell on March 07, 2006, 07:51:00 PM
Post by: Doug Campbell on March 07, 2006, 07:51:00 PM
"I always thought of the desert country as blah"
Anything but Mac, if you ever get started going to that desert/brush country you'll be hooked. I went the first time like twenty years ago when we lived in MO. After that I went practically every year, even been a couple times since coming to MT. Love it anywhere from Feb to mid April anyway, not so much in the summer. :scared:
Keep it coming CK and Brian :thumbsup:
Anything but Mac, if you ever get started going to that desert/brush country you'll be hooked. I went the first time like twenty years ago when we lived in MO. After that I went practically every year, even been a couple times since coming to MT. Love it anywhere from Feb to mid April anyway, not so much in the summer. :scared:
Keep it coming CK and Brian :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 08:32:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 08:32:00 PM
Sorry for the delay guys, been buried in orders and phone messages (not that I'm complaining)! Spent the evening with my girls and had dinner with them and my folks. They wanted to hear all about the trip too, well my wife didn't like the snake part.
:scared:
Plenty more to come. I'm gonna put the little ones to bed and I'll continue here shortly.
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
:scared:
Plenty more to come. I'm gonna put the little ones to bed and I'll continue here shortly.
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 08:39:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 07, 2006, 08:39:00 PM
Well, as luck would have it, the pigs decided to show up early enough this day so that I wouldn't be tracking in the dark. Of course between the snakes and the cutbrush what else could a guy worry about after dark? Ha, Im not gonna start thinking about it now!
With my pig recovered and nightfall fast approaching, I took the slow ride across the ranch to see what all Brian had piled up. I just knew when I dropped him off that he was about to see the magic of this place explode around him. I'd told Brian comming in that this country down here is a trecherous place where a guy would suspect nothing could survive. One minute you look across the countryside and see nothing but desolate, unforgiving isolation and the next minute the veil is lifted, revealing magnificant undertakings in every direction. There is life in every form at work all around. Roadrunners slip past carrying a small lizzard, the Blue Quail speak to each other as they slip along, and coyotes, javelina, and abundances of other lifeforms slip from the shadows. I was certain Brian would soon understand the magnetic draw for guys like he and I. Oh had I ever fallen short in my discriptions. Brian had all the hopes of seeing game filled and I couldn't wait to hear every detail.
I rounded the last turn in my travels to pick up my friend. Where was he? I turned the noisy clatter of my diesel off and listened. Somewhere above in the only thing to resemble a tree, I hear him. Im here! Well, where's your quary? Out there he says through the darkness. Im pumped as I hear these words! I know the day has ended well. CK
With my pig recovered and nightfall fast approaching, I took the slow ride across the ranch to see what all Brian had piled up. I just knew when I dropped him off that he was about to see the magic of this place explode around him. I'd told Brian comming in that this country down here is a trecherous place where a guy would suspect nothing could survive. One minute you look across the countryside and see nothing but desolate, unforgiving isolation and the next minute the veil is lifted, revealing magnificant undertakings in every direction. There is life in every form at work all around. Roadrunners slip past carrying a small lizzard, the Blue Quail speak to each other as they slip along, and coyotes, javelina, and abundances of other lifeforms slip from the shadows. I was certain Brian would soon understand the magnetic draw for guys like he and I. Oh had I ever fallen short in my discriptions. Brian had all the hopes of seeing game filled and I couldn't wait to hear every detail.
I rounded the last turn in my travels to pick up my friend. Where was he? I turned the noisy clatter of my diesel off and listened. Somewhere above in the only thing to resemble a tree, I hear him. Im here! Well, where's your quary? Out there he says through the darkness. Im pumped as I hear these words! I know the day has ended well. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Paul R on March 07, 2006, 08:47:00 PM
Post by: Paul R on March 07, 2006, 08:47:00 PM
Great story and pics guy's.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Adam Keiper on March 07, 2006, 08:58:00 PM
Post by: Adam Keiper on March 07, 2006, 08:58:00 PM
Fantastik story guys! Almost feel like I was there watching over your shoulders... :^)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 10:22:00 PM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 07, 2006, 10:22:00 PM
Hi Adam, haven't seen much of you lately...Mac~
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Jason R. Wesbrock on March 07, 2006, 10:26:00 PM
Post by: Jason R. Wesbrock on March 07, 2006, 10:26:00 PM
Thanks, guys. This story's just what I needed since there's freezing rain coming down outside. That hunt looks like it was a blast. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: mike g on March 07, 2006, 10:47:00 PM
Post by: mike g on March 07, 2006, 10:47:00 PM
Curtis....
One of these day's I'll be out to Hunt with ya....
One of these day's I'll be out to Hunt with ya....
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 11:54:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 07, 2006, 11:54:00 PM
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisbows.jpg)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:05:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:05:00 AM
OK, next day we woke up to a little bit of overcast skies and a few little sprinkles here and there. Things were a little slower in the morning, well it didn't help that we slept in. I was drinking a few mexican beers by a mesquite fire the night before, I don't know what Curtis' excuse was. Said something about an alarm not going off.
No big deal, slow but not dead. Well some things were dead. The rabbits were still running around. Had fun exploring the ranch and headed back to the truck for lunch.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisbunny.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
No big deal, slow but not dead. Well some things were dead. The rabbits were still running around. Had fun exploring the ranch and headed back to the truck for lunch.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisbunny.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:06:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:06:00 AM
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisbunny2.jpg)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:26:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:26:00 AM
This part is for the food guys...
I asked Curtis if we could eat at a good Mexican restaurant if we had time over the weekend. Well there was no better time than mid day this day.
We made the short trip to Laredo and had some fantastic authentic mexican cuisine. I had the chicken flautas and Curtis had beef tongue. I'm not big on guacamole but theirs was super fresh and prepared like nothing I have ever tasted. Delicioso! Everything was great. Curtis went to the men's room and came out laughing saying "you gotta check out the bathroom". I was scared to go and I'll let Curtis finish that story.
We had some time to kill before the evening hunt so I picked up an authentic Mexican pinata for my daughter and some other trinkets for the rest of the family.
We had to go through a border patrol checkpoint on the way back. I got to see some illegal aliens crossing the ranch and surounding areas while I was there. It's a much bigger part of the south Texas culture and more in depth than this northerner could understand.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisborder.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisborder2.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
I asked Curtis if we could eat at a good Mexican restaurant if we had time over the weekend. Well there was no better time than mid day this day.
We made the short trip to Laredo and had some fantastic authentic mexican cuisine. I had the chicken flautas and Curtis had beef tongue. I'm not big on guacamole but theirs was super fresh and prepared like nothing I have ever tasted. Delicioso! Everything was great. Curtis went to the men's room and came out laughing saying "you gotta check out the bathroom". I was scared to go and I'll let Curtis finish that story.
We had some time to kill before the evening hunt so I picked up an authentic Mexican pinata for my daughter and some other trinkets for the rest of the family.
We had to go through a border patrol checkpoint on the way back. I got to see some illegal aliens crossing the ranch and surounding areas while I was there. It's a much bigger part of the south Texas culture and more in depth than this northerner could understand.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisborder.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisborder2.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:29:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:29:00 AM
OK, back to the hunt. We headed back out for the evening hunt. I was hesitant to sit the stand again but there was so much game in the area I wanted to see what developed.
Before getting settle in, I had to continue our routine of running the deer off the roads we corned. Nice problem to have I guess, they always seem to know when they're not in season.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisdeer.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisdeer2.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Before getting settle in, I had to continue our routine of running the deer off the roads we corned. Nice problem to have I guess, they always seem to know when they're not in season.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisdeer.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v85/halbleib/Adventures%20with%20Curtis/Curtisdeer2.jpg)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:39:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 12:39:00 AM
I climbed into the stand and it didn't take long for the javelinas to show up. They pretty much repeated their pattern from the previous evening. NOW I know where I should have been, along the road on the down wind side. I never expected them to be that predictable.
I watched them until they were out of sight, pretty fascinating creatures to watch. 4 deer shared the road with them for quite some time.
The feeder buzzed just before dark, scaring the crap out of me even though I thought I was expecting it. A while later and just before dark, a group of 3 pigs showed up, a black one the size Curtis killed, a bigger black and white one and a huge brown one which may have been the one that was alone the previous evening. They never came into the shooting lanes. Later on, Curtis and I figured someone had been shooting at them from this stand recently based on their behavior.
They left and headed out to the road, you guessed it, the same way the javies left! Hidden in the tangles on the down wind side of the road was the place to be tonight and I wasn't there.
I was starting to figure this game out but I was down to my last day...
Yep, just stacking up these stupid Texas pigs over corn :rolleyes:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
I watched them until they were out of sight, pretty fascinating creatures to watch. 4 deer shared the road with them for quite some time.
The feeder buzzed just before dark, scaring the crap out of me even though I thought I was expecting it. A while later and just before dark, a group of 3 pigs showed up, a black one the size Curtis killed, a bigger black and white one and a huge brown one which may have been the one that was alone the previous evening. They never came into the shooting lanes. Later on, Curtis and I figured someone had been shooting at them from this stand recently based on their behavior.
They left and headed out to the road, you guessed it, the same way the javies left! Hidden in the tangles on the down wind side of the road was the place to be tonight and I wasn't there.
I was starting to figure this game out but I was down to my last day...
Yep, just stacking up these stupid Texas pigs over corn :rolleyes:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 07:07:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 07:07:00 AM
Like Brian said, we overslept the next morning. This was quite a landmark in my hunting carreer. I can't remember that last time I overslept on the morning of a hunt. I generally resemble a child the night before Christmas, thinking if I just stay awake the event ahead will transpire more quickly.
The morning hunt was fairly uneventful. I did cover lots of ground, thwacking a few bunnies along the way. At one point I smelled a campfire burning from within the tangle of agony somewhere. I'd long wanted to catch some Illegal Aliens in one of their temporary camps to get some photos. Seems every hunter that comes here from out of state is horrified at the thought of crossing Illegals. I wanted photos with some fondling my Archery Equipment to show other hunters they are just extreemly poor people in search of something resembling a life. Many of them die in pursuit of these dreams and the only marks of their prior existance is their bleached bones lying scattered in the desert sand. Very sad indeed!
I knew the fire was Illegals. Brian and I were the only people on this 4000 acres of realestate. As I krept up toward the growing smell of creosote smoke I begain to hear their voices. Ever so slowly I eased forward till I was almost upon them. Oooppps! My clothing snaggs the brush making obvious human sounds and I break a stick loudly as I try and free myself. The voices ahead are quickly replaced by the sounds of obvious footfall. They, like the animals of this region are driven by the fight for survival and they once again elude the film upon which I wish to capture them. I bid them farwell as I look through the empty cans of corn and try and snuff the life from their abandoned campfire. Best of luck to you guys! Hope you safely find the life you so desperately seek!!!
I continue on......
The morning hunt was fairly uneventful. I did cover lots of ground, thwacking a few bunnies along the way. At one point I smelled a campfire burning from within the tangle of agony somewhere. I'd long wanted to catch some Illegal Aliens in one of their temporary camps to get some photos. Seems every hunter that comes here from out of state is horrified at the thought of crossing Illegals. I wanted photos with some fondling my Archery Equipment to show other hunters they are just extreemly poor people in search of something resembling a life. Many of them die in pursuit of these dreams and the only marks of their prior existance is their bleached bones lying scattered in the desert sand. Very sad indeed!
I knew the fire was Illegals. Brian and I were the only people on this 4000 acres of realestate. As I krept up toward the growing smell of creosote smoke I begain to hear their voices. Ever so slowly I eased forward till I was almost upon them. Oooppps! My clothing snaggs the brush making obvious human sounds and I break a stick loudly as I try and free myself. The voices ahead are quickly replaced by the sounds of obvious footfall. They, like the animals of this region are driven by the fight for survival and they once again elude the film upon which I wish to capture them. I bid them farwell as I look through the empty cans of corn and try and snuff the life from their abandoned campfire. Best of luck to you guys! Hope you safely find the life you so desperately seek!!!
I continue on......
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Charlie Lamb on March 08, 2006, 07:20:00 AM
Post by: Charlie Lamb on March 08, 2006, 07:20:00 AM
Thanks for the entertainment guys! Chompin at the bit to roll south this morning. Having my coffee, watching the day break and listening to the thunder roll while I read your adventure. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Guru on March 08, 2006, 07:34:00 AM
Post by: Guru on March 08, 2006, 07:34:00 AM
This is some real good stuff guys...as usual,very good reading!!!
Charlie,are you headed down for "Sweat" already??
Charlie,are you headed down for "Sweat" already??
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Charlie Lamb on March 08, 2006, 07:52:00 AM
Post by: Charlie Lamb on March 08, 2006, 07:52:00 AM
Curt... I'll head out on Saturday. Got a stop to make in Oklahoma and gonna drop by and visit Mike Westvang before I get south to start the "Sweat".
Just that Curtis and Brian got me ready to leave now. ;)
Just that Curtis and Brian got me ready to leave now. ;)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Guru on March 08, 2006, 07:54:00 AM
Post by: Guru on March 08, 2006, 07:54:00 AM
Cool man,I'm jelous :( :notworthy: .Have a safe trip brutha!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: JC on March 08, 2006, 08:09:00 AM
Post by: JC on March 08, 2006, 08:09:00 AM
Great story guys...waiting anxiously for the next installment. Especially the "bathroom" story
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: the Ferret on March 08, 2006, 08:38:00 AM
Post by: the Ferret on March 08, 2006, 08:38:00 AM
That Charlie is living the life of Riley I'll tell ya..travelling here and there, hunting all the time. Lucky son of a...gun!
The-looking forward to the day when I get to retire- Ferret
The-looking forward to the day when I get to retire- Ferret
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: TexMex on March 08, 2006, 09:32:00 AM
Post by: TexMex on March 08, 2006, 09:32:00 AM
Great story guys, Gracias.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 09:45:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 09:45:00 AM
In the smokey grey morning sky I could see promise of sunshine ahead. This morning had started dreary and much cooler. The passing of a cool front had ushered in clouds and misty conditions. It was the perfect time for Brian and I to head off for some more populated adventure. Thats right, sidewalk stalking for the perfect Pinata' for Brians little girls. We managed to scrape and bang our way through the bustling daily routines of 100,000 border dwellers. Allas, a shop with pinatas'. Just in time I might add due to the fact that my nerves were failing and my language becomming quite colorful in the rush of Laredo traffic.
With shopping completed, we were off to one of the finest eateries in the Laredo area. It was a place where the Texas Sweat participants were to meet in a week and a halfs time. We pulled up chairs in the truest of Mexican environments and eyed the floxom, dark haired beauties within.
With the fine meal complete, I eased toward the Bano'(restroom)... Much to my surprise, I found myself in an environment fit to enjoy for the entire afternoon. There above the latrines were Televisions built into the walls for your viewing pleasure. Im sure they've had to ask more than one customer to hurry his business while caught up in local television programming. LOL! I couldn't let the viewing experience pass so I informed Brian that there was a treat in the Bano' for him. In having said this, he headed off with quite the inquizical look upon his face. Ha, his return was one with a grin. A grin and a photo on his handy cell phone camera. Musta made quite an impression on him as well as myself..... Back to the Ranch. CK
With shopping completed, we were off to one of the finest eateries in the Laredo area. It was a place where the Texas Sweat participants were to meet in a week and a halfs time. We pulled up chairs in the truest of Mexican environments and eyed the floxom, dark haired beauties within.
With the fine meal complete, I eased toward the Bano'(restroom)... Much to my surprise, I found myself in an environment fit to enjoy for the entire afternoon. There above the latrines were Televisions built into the walls for your viewing pleasure. Im sure they've had to ask more than one customer to hurry his business while caught up in local television programming. LOL! I couldn't let the viewing experience pass so I informed Brian that there was a treat in the Bano' for him. In having said this, he headed off with quite the inquizical look upon his face. Ha, his return was one with a grin. A grin and a photo on his handy cell phone camera. Musta made quite an impression on him as well as myself..... Back to the Ranch. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Marvin M. on March 08, 2006, 10:23:00 AM
Post by: Marvin M. on March 08, 2006, 10:23:00 AM
Never did care much for bathroom stories. On with the hunt!!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 11:05:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 11:05:00 AM
:bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: doctorbrady on March 08, 2006, 12:48:00 PM
Post by: doctorbrady on March 08, 2006, 12:48:00 PM
Brian and CK,
I saw the camp pictures and new immediately that you were in the same camp I hunted a couple of weeks ago with Jerry. My beautiful hunting companion and I (yes, guys it was a girl) had a great time. She was a little freaked at first by the housing arrangements but I felt like I was at the Hilton compared to places I have stayed in before. We did leave you a bunny sized rat to shoot at though. I was going to whack him but he made it under the upstairs bunk a little too fast. I whacked a decent pig, and my girlfriend and I both missed a pig. I had a young javie almost run me over when it was spooked by a cow feeding up on the pipeline. I had just gotten in front of the 2 bigger pigs in the group when the cow startled the smaller javie in the lead. It turned and nearly plowed into me. In retrospect, I guess I could have whacked it through the front of the skull at petting range, but at the time I was trying to get plowed through. I stood up when the pig was about 1 yard away and it turned off track. The bigger javies also bolted at all of the comotion and I just couldn't get back in place for a shot. Aside from that encounter we saw only a few javelina during the trip, but plenty of hogs. They would get real scarce, though once you hunted a location a time or two. I suspect the 4 javelina you have pictures of are at the "double stand". I did see them one afternoon at that spot, but the swirling wind kept me from being able to hunt there again. I can't wait to hear the rest of your adventure. I wish I was heading back down this weekend! Brady
I saw the camp pictures and new immediately that you were in the same camp I hunted a couple of weeks ago with Jerry. My beautiful hunting companion and I (yes, guys it was a girl) had a great time. She was a little freaked at first by the housing arrangements but I felt like I was at the Hilton compared to places I have stayed in before. We did leave you a bunny sized rat to shoot at though. I was going to whack him but he made it under the upstairs bunk a little too fast. I whacked a decent pig, and my girlfriend and I both missed a pig. I had a young javie almost run me over when it was spooked by a cow feeding up on the pipeline. I had just gotten in front of the 2 bigger pigs in the group when the cow startled the smaller javie in the lead. It turned and nearly plowed into me. In retrospect, I guess I could have whacked it through the front of the skull at petting range, but at the time I was trying to get plowed through. I stood up when the pig was about 1 yard away and it turned off track. The bigger javies also bolted at all of the comotion and I just couldn't get back in place for a shot. Aside from that encounter we saw only a few javelina during the trip, but plenty of hogs. They would get real scarce, though once you hunted a location a time or two. I suspect the 4 javelina you have pictures of are at the "double stand". I did see them one afternoon at that spot, but the swirling wind kept me from being able to hunt there again. I can't wait to hear the rest of your adventure. I wish I was heading back down this weekend! Brady
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 12:50:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 12:50:00 PM
Somewhat late arrival back to the ranch put us into high gear. The Sun was quickly approaching the horizon and we already knew there was adventure ahead. Brian once again choose the spot where he repeatedly been bumfungled by the javelina and hogs. I can't say I blame him. Afterall, there was obviously more game in that one area than six men could shoot so why not return?
Id dropped Brian off at his spot and decided myself to return to the area that had granted me success in shooting the first hog of this trip. I was more in a relaxed mode this evening and spent more time searching out arrowheads and soaking in some sunshine. In my short travels this evening I managed to connect with 4 more bunnies. As the greys of evening started their daily migration toward darkness, hogs appeared once again. Today they appeared at a great distance and I must put forth measurable effort to gain ground on them. Once I close the gap to a fairly safe distance, the pigs get swallowed up by the landscape. I am once again alone in the sea of cactus.
I started making mathmatical equasions in my head at this moment. Somewhere in my calculations I decided that the hogs must be in route to a feeder that was some distance away. I wasted no time as I raced the clock toward nightfall. I found myself at a dead run to get ahead of the pigs to the route I felt they would surely take. My calculations proved correct and as I dropped by pack heavily laden with gear, I can hear the pigs hooves against the hard ground as they scurry forward in my direction. I snuggle tighter against a prickley pear cactus trying as I may to stear clear of this plants impending doom. My bow is ready, my nerves loosely in tact, and the wind very much in my favor. I'll now be at the mercy of the pigs..... And as so ofter happens in this difficult game, I find myself deeply absorbed by the darkness of another wonderful South Texas evening. I will be forced to fold this hand to the pigs as darkness will no longer support my sight. As I slip silently from my hiding, I once again find myself walking with a smile on my face. Ah, what a wonderful game we've played!!!!
Id dropped Brian off at his spot and decided myself to return to the area that had granted me success in shooting the first hog of this trip. I was more in a relaxed mode this evening and spent more time searching out arrowheads and soaking in some sunshine. In my short travels this evening I managed to connect with 4 more bunnies. As the greys of evening started their daily migration toward darkness, hogs appeared once again. Today they appeared at a great distance and I must put forth measurable effort to gain ground on them. Once I close the gap to a fairly safe distance, the pigs get swallowed up by the landscape. I am once again alone in the sea of cactus.
I started making mathmatical equasions in my head at this moment. Somewhere in my calculations I decided that the hogs must be in route to a feeder that was some distance away. I wasted no time as I raced the clock toward nightfall. I found myself at a dead run to get ahead of the pigs to the route I felt they would surely take. My calculations proved correct and as I dropped by pack heavily laden with gear, I can hear the pigs hooves against the hard ground as they scurry forward in my direction. I snuggle tighter against a prickley pear cactus trying as I may to stear clear of this plants impending doom. My bow is ready, my nerves loosely in tact, and the wind very much in my favor. I'll now be at the mercy of the pigs..... And as so ofter happens in this difficult game, I find myself deeply absorbed by the darkness of another wonderful South Texas evening. I will be forced to fold this hand to the pigs as darkness will no longer support my sight. As I slip silently from my hiding, I once again find myself walking with a smile on my face. Ah, what a wonderful game we've played!!!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 12:54:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 12:54:00 PM
Sorry to have missed you Doc! Glad you had a great time! CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 08, 2006, 01:10:00 PM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 08, 2006, 01:10:00 PM
QuoteAt one point I smelled a campfire burning from within the tangle of agony somewhere. I'd long wanted to catch some Illegal Aliens in one of their temporary camps to get some photos. Seems every hunter that comes here from out of state is horrified at the thought of crossing Illegals. I wanted photos with some fondling my Archery Equipment to show other hunters they are just extreemly poor people in search of something resembling a life. Many of them die in pursuit of these dreams and the only marks of their prior existance is their bleached bones lying scattered in the desert sand. Very sad indeed!.....Curtis Kellar
Curtis, I enjoy your writing very much and you have become very talented at it too. You learn much about folks when they write over a long period of time. I was touched by your view of illegal aliens in this post. Most folks who live in this nation forget that thier anscestors came here much the same way and for the very same reasons as these folks althought they came through the front door so to speak. My grandparents came from Poland and Ireland to work the coal mines of Pennsylvania searching for a better life. They felt they found it but when I compare what I have for a life compared to them I live like a king compared to both my grandparents and my parents. Growing up as I did gave me goals, values, love and compassion for others. I appreciate your views on these people and I see you as a compassionate person and therefore I have great respect for you becuase of that. You have a great feel and love for the country in which you live and I know you would be a hard one to relocate elsewhere. Keep up the great writing and Brian isn't doing too badly either but he is probably too busy to keep up...Mac~
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 01:55:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 01:55:00 PM
Thanks Mac! Your support is greatly appreciated. I can't wait to share a piece I've written called "Immigrants Eyes". Gotta be careful these days though. With writing comes the responsibility to submit previously unreleased material. You'll read it soon enough I suppose. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 05:28:00 PM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 08, 2006, 05:28:00 PM
Camp life this second night was more uneventful than the first. Actually we made a short drive down a corned road to try and shoot a few cottontails. The wind had increased, driving the bunnies into hiding. All the same, I was tired and ready for some rest.
The morning cam proper this last morning. Nature called at 4:30am so I went ahead and started the coffee. Brian rolled out shortly thereafter and started into his morning routine. Two cups of Joe down the gullet and we rolled into the morning awaiting our arrival. The plan was to corn some roads that intersected in about a 1 1/2 mile square. Brian would defend his territory and I'd fend off and intruders on my end. Once I dropped Brian off, I parked the truck and as I exited the cab I could easily make out a very large form ahead in the dawning light. BIG HOG!!!!! Boy what a sight this guy was. He was firmly planted on open ground with no real cover in sight. I felt this would be about as tough a stalk as one guy could muster. Never the less I begain the crawl and sneak technigue I've become so accustomed to. Some 45 minutes of crawling along, taking pictures and freez-framing my movments as he would turn his body to face mine and I was within shooting distance.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/hugehog.jpg)
The light of day was still quite weak but supportive enough to snap a pic of the bruiser before I released an arrow. I snapped several pics and lowered the camera to the ground. As I placed the arrow gently on the shelf I hear a stick break off to the left. I turn to look at the noises creator only to turn back and see my trophy escaping into the savage brush along the far side of the road. Another one eludes me!!!! Id later come to find that this big boar had eluded numerous other bowhunters before me. If I'd know that all along I believe I would have skipped the photo opp and gone ahead with a speedy shot. Things just felt quite right at the time and who could have ever known any different. On with the morning......
The morning cam proper this last morning. Nature called at 4:30am so I went ahead and started the coffee. Brian rolled out shortly thereafter and started into his morning routine. Two cups of Joe down the gullet and we rolled into the morning awaiting our arrival. The plan was to corn some roads that intersected in about a 1 1/2 mile square. Brian would defend his territory and I'd fend off and intruders on my end. Once I dropped Brian off, I parked the truck and as I exited the cab I could easily make out a very large form ahead in the dawning light. BIG HOG!!!!! Boy what a sight this guy was. He was firmly planted on open ground with no real cover in sight. I felt this would be about as tough a stalk as one guy could muster. Never the less I begain the crawl and sneak technigue I've become so accustomed to. Some 45 minutes of crawling along, taking pictures and freez-framing my movments as he would turn his body to face mine and I was within shooting distance.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/hugehog.jpg)
The light of day was still quite weak but supportive enough to snap a pic of the bruiser before I released an arrow. I snapped several pics and lowered the camera to the ground. As I placed the arrow gently on the shelf I hear a stick break off to the left. I turn to look at the noises creator only to turn back and see my trophy escaping into the savage brush along the far side of the road. Another one eludes me!!!! Id later come to find that this big boar had eluded numerous other bowhunters before me. If I'd know that all along I believe I would have skipped the photo opp and gone ahead with a speedy shot. Things just felt quite right at the time and who could have ever known any different. On with the morning......
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Coop on March 08, 2006, 08:05:00 PM
Post by: Coop on March 08, 2006, 08:05:00 PM
Great stories and pictures you two. Thanks for sharing those.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 11:19:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 08, 2006, 11:19:00 PM
Sorry again for the delay fellas. Lots to catch up on after being gone for 5 days.
OK, as Curtis said there was no campfire the last night and fewer Mexican beers, oh and the alarm clock helped too :D
My plan was to intercept these critters on the down wind side of their corridor of choice for the last few days. As the sun rose in the southern sky, waves of excitement rippled through me as I came face to face with my last day at this incredible ranch. The trip was already a success, regardless of what happened today.
I poked around the thick stuff first thing, occasionally shooing deer off the road as usual. I loosed a few arrows at rabbits and before long heard the feeder ring out down the road. I knew it wouldn't be long before some type of critters heeded the dinner bell.
About 15 minutes after hearing the feeder, I worked my way back to the road and peeked around a prickly pair to see 3 hogs heading my way, on the same route they took the last 2 days. I thought to myself "here they come, this is going to be too easy". I remained motionless behind several intertwined cactus with only the top of my brown hair covered head peering above. They just started to enter my shooting lane and I waited for one to turn for an arrow...
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
OK, as Curtis said there was no campfire the last night and fewer Mexican beers, oh and the alarm clock helped too :D
My plan was to intercept these critters on the down wind side of their corridor of choice for the last few days. As the sun rose in the southern sky, waves of excitement rippled through me as I came face to face with my last day at this incredible ranch. The trip was already a success, regardless of what happened today.
I poked around the thick stuff first thing, occasionally shooing deer off the road as usual. I loosed a few arrows at rabbits and before long heard the feeder ring out down the road. I knew it wouldn't be long before some type of critters heeded the dinner bell.
About 15 minutes after hearing the feeder, I worked my way back to the road and peeked around a prickly pair to see 3 hogs heading my way, on the same route they took the last 2 days. I thought to myself "here they come, this is going to be too easy". I remained motionless behind several intertwined cactus with only the top of my brown hair covered head peering above. They just started to enter my shooting lane and I waited for one to turn for an arrow...
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: C. Lacey on March 09, 2006, 02:35:00 AM
Post by: C. Lacey on March 09, 2006, 02:35:00 AM
G'day fellas! :)
Great story Brian and Curtis...and it looks like great country to be testing your stalking abilities too.
But I'm ever so jealous that you got those bunnies...I figure they ought to be at the top of the list for hunters.
Fill up your coffee cups and keep yacking lads.
Cher :cool:
Great story Brian and Curtis...and it looks like great country to be testing your stalking abilities too.
But I'm ever so jealous that you got those bunnies...I figure they ought to be at the top of the list for hunters.
Fill up your coffee cups and keep yacking lads.
Cher :cool:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: the Ferret on March 09, 2006, 07:02:00 AM
Post by: the Ferret on March 09, 2006, 07:02:00 AM
Brian someplace you have picked up some very bad habits :mad:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Guru on March 09, 2006, 07:10:00 AM
Post by: Guru on March 09, 2006, 07:10:00 AM
:readit: !["[nope]"]("graemlins/nope.gif" "\"\"")
Keep it coming boys!!
Keep it coming boys!!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 09, 2006, 07:14:00 AM
Post by: Huntrdfk on March 09, 2006, 07:14:00 AM
Great hunt guys, but I'm with Mickey on that last entry Brian, I think we might need a story telling class around here! !["[laffsmyl]"]("graemlins/laffsmyl.gif" "\"\"")
David
David
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 09, 2006, 07:31:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 09, 2006, 07:31:00 AM
Yep, 4 days is a long story. Talked to Brian last night. He's is overwhelmed with the magazine subscriptions and phone calls. He'll finish today. :wavey: Cher! G'Day! heeeheee!
After the big porker piled off into the brush, I shook off the adrenaline and started off in pursuit of my next quary. It wasn't long and Id amassed a pretty good pile of bunnies. I was thwacking them and leaving them along the road to retrieve on my way back by. Well, this didn't last long. Id only eased around the corner for a short distance when I hear coyotes yipping and yelping in the exact area where Id left the last rabbit. I hot-foot it over to the spot where I suspect they were and sure enough they'd gotten my rabbit.
I decided Id better go get all my bunnies and pile them in one area. This I did. I laid three rabbits together and hid them a tad better. I continued to walk along and when I returned to the bunny pile there was an Owl sitting there. I thought Owls only took live prey. Well, I was wrong and I'd returned in the nick of time. The Owl had pulled the head off of one bunny and was sure to have eaten him if I hadn't thwarted his plans. Boy, is this area just one big food chain!!!!
Shortly after the coyote and Owl spectacles, I found myself in stalk mode toward one unsuspecting javelina. He'd have nothing of it and in a matter of about 5 minutes the game was over. I decided to sit in the sand awhile and enjoy the rest of this last morning. I was in the middle of soaking up sun when the bushes started moving around me. I ready a 160 Snuffer in hopes that it is the javelina returning. As the animal spills out into the roadway it was no javelina at all but a grown female Badger. Wow! What a sight at close range. These guys are pretty rare to see in these parts. Luck was on her side this morning. As I fumbled for a camera, she became nervous and started to scurry away. I though of Debbie for a moment and wondered if she had room for yet another trophy mount in our home. The thoughts were short and the arrow was in the wind. Like I said, luck was with the Badger today and she ended up with an ugly haircut but non the less unscaved from the encounter. The morning hunt now complete, I enter the truck to go pick up Brian..... CK
After the big porker piled off into the brush, I shook off the adrenaline and started off in pursuit of my next quary. It wasn't long and Id amassed a pretty good pile of bunnies. I was thwacking them and leaving them along the road to retrieve on my way back by. Well, this didn't last long. Id only eased around the corner for a short distance when I hear coyotes yipping and yelping in the exact area where Id left the last rabbit. I hot-foot it over to the spot where I suspect they were and sure enough they'd gotten my rabbit.
I decided Id better go get all my bunnies and pile them in one area. This I did. I laid three rabbits together and hid them a tad better. I continued to walk along and when I returned to the bunny pile there was an Owl sitting there. I thought Owls only took live prey. Well, I was wrong and I'd returned in the nick of time. The Owl had pulled the head off of one bunny and was sure to have eaten him if I hadn't thwarted his plans. Boy, is this area just one big food chain!!!!
Shortly after the coyote and Owl spectacles, I found myself in stalk mode toward one unsuspecting javelina. He'd have nothing of it and in a matter of about 5 minutes the game was over. I decided to sit in the sand awhile and enjoy the rest of this last morning. I was in the middle of soaking up sun when the bushes started moving around me. I ready a 160 Snuffer in hopes that it is the javelina returning. As the animal spills out into the roadway it was no javelina at all but a grown female Badger. Wow! What a sight at close range. These guys are pretty rare to see in these parts. Luck was on her side this morning. As I fumbled for a camera, she became nervous and started to scurry away. I though of Debbie for a moment and wondered if she had room for yet another trophy mount in our home. The thoughts were short and the arrow was in the wind. Like I said, luck was with the Badger today and she ended up with an ugly haircut but non the less unscaved from the encounter. The morning hunt now complete, I enter the truck to go pick up Brian..... CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: RayMO on March 09, 2006, 07:36:00 AM
Post by: RayMO on March 09, 2006, 07:36:00 AM
And....
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: JC on March 09, 2006, 07:39:00 AM
Post by: JC on March 09, 2006, 07:39:00 AM
Great yarn spinnin fellers....
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 09, 2006, 07:42:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 09, 2006, 07:42:00 AM
Yep, 4 days is a long story. Talked to Brian last night. He's is overwhelmed with the magazine subscriptions and phone calls. He'll finish today. :wavey: Cher! G'Day! heeeheee!
After the big porker piled off into the brush, I shook off the adrenaline and started off in pursuit of my next quary. It wasn't long and Id amassed a pretty good pile of bunnies. I was thwacking them and leaving them along the road to retrieve on my way back by. Well, this didn't last long. Id only eased around the corner for a short distance when I hear coyotes yipping and yelping in the exact area where Id left the last rabbit. I hot-foot it over to the spot where I suspect they were and sure enough they'd gotten my rabbit.
I decided Id better go get all my bunnies and pile them in one area. This I did. I laid three rabbits together and hid them a tad better. I continued to walk along and when I returned to the bunny pile there was an Owl sitting there. I thought Owls only took live prey. Well, I was wrong and I'd returned in the nick of time. The Owl had pulled the head off of one bunny and was sure to have eaten him if I hadn't thwarted his plans. Boy, is this area just one big food chain!!!!
Shortly after the coyote and Owl spectacles, I found myself in stalk mode toward one unsuspecting javelina. He'd have nothing of it and in a matter of about 5 minutes the game was over. I decided to sit in the sand awhile and enjoy the rest of this last morning. I was in the middle of soaking up sun when the bushes started moving around me. I ready a 160 Snuffer in hopes that it is the javelina returning. As the animal spills out into the roadway it was no javelina at all but a grown female Badger. Wow! What a sight at close range. These guys are pretty rare to see in these parts. Luck was on her side this morning. As I fumbled for a camera, she became nervous and started to scurry away. I though of Debbie for a moment and wondered if she had room for yet another trophy mount in our home. The thoughts were short and the arrow was in the wind. Like I said, luck was with the Badger today and she ended up with an ugly haircut but non the less unscaved from the encounter. The morning hunt now complete, I enter the truck to go pick up Brian..... CK
After the big porker piled off into the brush, I shook off the adrenaline and started off in pursuit of my next quary. It wasn't long and Id amassed a pretty good pile of bunnies. I was thwacking them and leaving them along the road to retrieve on my way back by. Well, this didn't last long. Id only eased around the corner for a short distance when I hear coyotes yipping and yelping in the exact area where Id left the last rabbit. I hot-foot it over to the spot where I suspect they were and sure enough they'd gotten my rabbit.
I decided Id better go get all my bunnies and pile them in one area. This I did. I laid three rabbits together and hid them a tad better. I continued to walk along and when I returned to the bunny pile there was an Owl sitting there. I thought Owls only took live prey. Well, I was wrong and I'd returned in the nick of time. The Owl had pulled the head off of one bunny and was sure to have eaten him if I hadn't thwarted his plans. Boy, is this area just one big food chain!!!!
Shortly after the coyote and Owl spectacles, I found myself in stalk mode toward one unsuspecting javelina. He'd have nothing of it and in a matter of about 5 minutes the game was over. I decided to sit in the sand awhile and enjoy the rest of this last morning. I was in the middle of soaking up sun when the bushes started moving around me. I ready a 160 Snuffer in hopes that it is the javelina returning. As the animal spills out into the roadway it was no javelina at all but a grown female Badger. Wow! What a sight at close range. These guys are pretty rare to see in these parts. Luck was on her side this morning. As I fumbled for a camera, she became nervous and started to scurry away. I though of Debbie for a moment and wondered if she had room for yet another trophy mount in our home. The thoughts were short and the arrow was in the wind. Like I said, luck was with the Badger today and she ended up with an ugly haircut but non the less unscaved from the encounter. The morning hunt now complete, I enter the truck to go pick up Brian..... CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 09, 2006, 07:49:00 AM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 09, 2006, 07:49:00 AM
Dang Brian, using magazine subscriptions as an excuse.....You got that southern sickness guy where you tell some story, leave a guy hanging and go sip tea or Mexican Beer...Great read guys..I'll come back for more..Mac~
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 09, 2006, 09:37:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 09, 2006, 09:37:00 AM
Man you guys are tough. I just got home from working my regular job on the midnight shift (back to reality). Dang it, I'm tired but I'll try to finish up...
OK I left off where I was completely hidden behind a tangle of pear cactus and was peering over, motionless. Well like I said, I've been getting a real education on these animals who are constantly pursued by predators and on constant vigil for danger. The lead pig took one look at my eyes and bolted into the brush on the opposite side of the road. DANG IT! Yeah this was gonna be too easy right? R-I-G-H-T...
Geez, even whitetails back home don't look around THIS good. Another rookie south Texas hunter mistake.
Well the swine swung wide of my position and ended up back on the road about 50 yards up wind. They started to feed nervously again. I started to notice how they were always tensed up and ready to bolt at ANY sign of danger. Yeah just get some corn and go to south Texas and you'll kill a bunch of stupid pigs :rolleyes:
The wind was in my favor so I ducked back into the brush on my side of the road. I emerged ahead of them once again, this time determined to stay hidden until they already scanned my location and passed by for a quartering away shot.
Here they come, I can only see small pieces of movemement through the brush. I do my best statue impersonation as my fingers tighten on the bow string. Just as they are about even with me, something across the road gets their attention, they do their crazy pig scramble into the brush opposite the perceived threat on my side which lands one of them a mere 5 feet from me on the other side of a creasote bush. C'mon, c'mon, just a few more steps and I'll have a point blank shot. Nothing to shoot at, no holes in the brush, the pig is RIGHT THERE! Geez, c'mon!
Well they froze up for a while and tried to figure out what it was across the way that was bothering them. In a flash they headed away from me, into the wind, and dissappeared again. Now I'm starting to get aggravated, darn pigs are out smarting me at every turn.
I droped back into the brush and circled further ahead on the road but was unable to locate the pigs again. I almost feel bad for that first bunny that I encountered after getting dejected seeing my smoked pork running away. That cottontail paid the price for a frustrated pig hunter.
BUT, the critters of south Texas always seem to get the last laugh. Mu judo tipped laminated birch shaft smacked the bunny so hard the arrow stayed with him as he turned into the brush. He made a valiant escape effort but didn't go far. Unfortunately it was far enough into a nasty thicket that I actually had to get down on my stomach to get to him. Now I'm really aggravated :mad:
I recover the bunny and my arrow as I try to spin my self around on my stomach. There literally is no option of standing up. I spin and come WAY too close to an 8 foot + black snake. I was just about ready to offer the bunny in exchange for my life as the snake slithered in the other direction. He must have figured I was one crazy sonofabitch to be crawiling around in there for a bunny and decided to move on.
Back out of the brush, half undressed now, I pick up my gear and spot another bunny. Aggravation victim number 2, this one stays put for a change. I cross the road and gather him up, making all kinds of noise and movement along the way. I spin around to see two javelina, yep, right under the tree stand I spent two nights in :archer:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
OK I left off where I was completely hidden behind a tangle of pear cactus and was peering over, motionless. Well like I said, I've been getting a real education on these animals who are constantly pursued by predators and on constant vigil for danger. The lead pig took one look at my eyes and bolted into the brush on the opposite side of the road. DANG IT! Yeah this was gonna be too easy right? R-I-G-H-T...
Geez, even whitetails back home don't look around THIS good. Another rookie south Texas hunter mistake.
Well the swine swung wide of my position and ended up back on the road about 50 yards up wind. They started to feed nervously again. I started to notice how they were always tensed up and ready to bolt at ANY sign of danger. Yeah just get some corn and go to south Texas and you'll kill a bunch of stupid pigs :rolleyes:
The wind was in my favor so I ducked back into the brush on my side of the road. I emerged ahead of them once again, this time determined to stay hidden until they already scanned my location and passed by for a quartering away shot.
Here they come, I can only see small pieces of movemement through the brush. I do my best statue impersonation as my fingers tighten on the bow string. Just as they are about even with me, something across the road gets their attention, they do their crazy pig scramble into the brush opposite the perceived threat on my side which lands one of them a mere 5 feet from me on the other side of a creasote bush. C'mon, c'mon, just a few more steps and I'll have a point blank shot. Nothing to shoot at, no holes in the brush, the pig is RIGHT THERE! Geez, c'mon!
Well they froze up for a while and tried to figure out what it was across the way that was bothering them. In a flash they headed away from me, into the wind, and dissappeared again. Now I'm starting to get aggravated, darn pigs are out smarting me at every turn.
I droped back into the brush and circled further ahead on the road but was unable to locate the pigs again. I almost feel bad for that first bunny that I encountered after getting dejected seeing my smoked pork running away. That cottontail paid the price for a frustrated pig hunter.
BUT, the critters of south Texas always seem to get the last laugh. Mu judo tipped laminated birch shaft smacked the bunny so hard the arrow stayed with him as he turned into the brush. He made a valiant escape effort but didn't go far. Unfortunately it was far enough into a nasty thicket that I actually had to get down on my stomach to get to him. Now I'm really aggravated :mad:
I recover the bunny and my arrow as I try to spin my self around on my stomach. There literally is no option of standing up. I spin and come WAY too close to an 8 foot + black snake. I was just about ready to offer the bunny in exchange for my life as the snake slithered in the other direction. He must have figured I was one crazy sonofabitch to be crawiling around in there for a bunny and decided to move on.
Back out of the brush, half undressed now, I pick up my gear and spot another bunny. Aggravation victim number 2, this one stays put for a change. I cross the road and gather him up, making all kinds of noise and movement along the way. I spin around to see two javelina, yep, right under the tree stand I spent two nights in :archer:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 09, 2006, 09:45:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 09, 2006, 09:45:00 AM
Curtis I want to thank you and Debbie once again for your hospitality and showing me a wonderful experience. I will be taking you up on the return invite as it is a perfect escape from the late winter. I learned a lot and hopefully will be better prepared next year.
If you have never tried this, you guys have to go. As far as big game hunting goes, it's a very inexpensive trip. Plus you have so many species available to pursue. I could honestly go back and just hunt rabbits the whole time, it was that much fun. I was able to do the whole trip for under $600 and the bulk of that was airfare and car rental. I was tempted to to go back next week for the Sweat but I have too much to do, I know Mac, no excuses
Thanks Curtis!
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
If you have never tried this, you guys have to go. As far as big game hunting goes, it's a very inexpensive trip. Plus you have so many species available to pursue. I could honestly go back and just hunt rabbits the whole time, it was that much fun. I was able to do the whole trip for under $600 and the bulk of that was airfare and car rental. I was tempted to to go back next week for the Sweat but I have too much to do, I know Mac, no excuses
Thanks Curtis!
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Shaun on March 09, 2006, 09:47:00 AM
Post by: Shaun on March 09, 2006, 09:47:00 AM
Good stuff there fellows. Sounds like you got south Texas brush country fever Brian. Not been able to find a cure myself, just have to keep going back and getting a fix each winter. Keep up the great work with the magazine and be real nice to the wife and kiddies so you can get back there next year.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 09, 2006, 09:48:00 AM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 09, 2006, 09:48:00 AM
You're right Shaun. I'll be back, thanks to a VERY understanding and supportive wife. Besides, I'm always nice :D
!["[moon]"]("graemlins/sleeping.gif" "\"\"")
Going to bed now, very tired. Yes some of us DO still work for a living ;)
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Going to bed now, very tired. Yes some of us DO still work for a living ;) -Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 09, 2006, 09:53:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 09, 2006, 09:53:00 AM
Brian, The pleasure was all mine! Come again anytime. I'm glad you got to see just how easy is is to hunt game here in South Texas. !["[dntthnk]"]("graemlins/dntthnk.gif" "\"\"")
Those critter can sure show a hunter just how fragile his world really is. Hope the memory stays bright for a long time. CK
Those critter can sure show a hunter just how fragile his world really is. Hope the memory stays bright for a long time. CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: IB on March 09, 2006, 10:16:00 AM
Post by: IB on March 09, 2006, 10:16:00 AM
Curtis and Brian.......Thank you to for taking me along :scared: :eek:
Thanks again...........vance
Thanks again...........vance
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Walkingstick on March 09, 2006, 10:19:00 AM
Post by: Walkingstick on March 09, 2006, 10:19:00 AM
Brian, with us working the campground and planning a trip to MS here in a week to visit the kids I would have loved to go to the sweat.Curtis sent me an invite last summer but not being home until October I never saw it until too late. We bought a new camper and plan to travel some winters. I hope to hunt LA and MS and just might try to hook up with Warren. He has sent me the info on all the WMU and game sites and has been giving advice. Lord willing I plan to see that desert country and if Curtis will let me I plan to stop in to meet him too if I get down that way. Will be there within the next two years if the good lord sees it so. Curtis's writing and pics have given me a whole new insite to the desert country. I think I watched too many Saharah Desert type films as a kid and have an idea that deserts are all sand. I see not. Thanks for the trip guys............Mac~
PS Brian..you going to make it up to Black Forest in April. I am hoping we are back by then. Since the folding of PATHA I really miss you guys.
PS Brian..you going to make it up to Black Forest in April. I am hoping we are back by then. Since the folding of PATHA I really miss you guys.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Stew on March 09, 2006, 10:32:00 AM
Post by: Stew on March 09, 2006, 10:32:00 AM
What a great story! Thanks for letting us in on the adventure.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Marvin M. on March 09, 2006, 10:46:00 AM
Post by: Marvin M. on March 09, 2006, 10:46:00 AM
Good job guys! You had me right back there with you walking the trails and picking Pear thorns out of my clothes.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: LV2HUNT on March 09, 2006, 01:11:00 PM
Post by: LV2HUNT on March 09, 2006, 01:11:00 PM
A classic, thanks guys!
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: TexMex on March 09, 2006, 01:34:00 PM
Post by: TexMex on March 09, 2006, 01:34:00 PM
Gracias muchachos!!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Terry Green on March 09, 2006, 02:20:00 PM
Post by: Terry Green on March 09, 2006, 02:20:00 PM
Great thread guys........thanks.....got me reved for next week for sure. Hope to meet ya some day Brian.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Pinecone on March 09, 2006, 05:06:00 PM
Post by: Pinecone on March 09, 2006, 05:06:00 PM
Great story, fellas! Made me feel like I was right there with ya!
Claudia
Claudia
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: korn stalker on March 09, 2006, 06:10:00 PM
Post by: korn stalker on March 09, 2006, 06:10:00 PM
Great story guys... I've hunted Texas once myself for hogs and had a great time at Halff Brothers ranch..... I didn't get a hog but had lots of close encounters and some very smart and hard hunted hogs to deal with.... lots of fun... Thanks for sharing your adventure with us... Doug.
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Holm-Made on March 10, 2006, 12:45:00 AM
Post by: Holm-Made on March 10, 2006, 12:45:00 AM
Thanks for the story boys. After going to S. Texas the last to years I am unable to make it this year. Your stories helped ease the pain. Chad
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: ky_longbow on March 10, 2006, 04:58:00 AM
Post by: ky_longbow on March 10, 2006, 04:58:00 AM
guys- thats some of the best reading ive done on here in a long time-
THANKS! :thumbsup: :archer:
THANKS! :thumbsup: :archer:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: herb haines on March 10, 2006, 07:31:00 AM
Post by: herb haines on March 10, 2006, 07:31:00 AM
all rigth Brian got some stuff to get off of my chest >you sir are eating my cheese cake :bigsmyl: . Debbie was making some for me at the Sweat Hunt ,bet you got to hug her too :bigsmyl: and got to shoot bunnies !!! life isn't fair ( sulking now) .
seriously your story made my morning also made me sad too .
my first taste of the south Texas scenery ,life style ,COOKING , and friendship came last year with my first trip to Curtis' land of opportunity for Texas Sweat II .
was going this year but started a new job and i was going to have to take a course and had to wait to when it started ,got it in time and got permission to go from UPS then went to get tickets and they were $1000 sorry to say just more than my budget would allow ( really concience , could have used plastic ) and had to call CK and say i couldn't get there .
guess i am one of the different ones i go to Texas to hunt bunnies , pigs and Javies is just gravy !!
is the black bush blooming , alergies killed me for a week or more after i got home !!
do have some good news . wrote the 4hr exam last night at 10 pm ,found the last two HS codes in last 3 min of exam .
got a call after 11 pm from instructors saying they would see me today , which meant i passed ,so now will have a job .
Brian you have a good one and get all the spines out ,will take a couple of weeks ;) --- all the best --- herb
seriously your story made my morning also made me sad too .
my first taste of the south Texas scenery ,life style ,COOKING , and friendship came last year with my first trip to Curtis' land of opportunity for Texas Sweat II .
was going this year but started a new job and i was going to have to take a course and had to wait to when it started ,got it in time and got permission to go from UPS then went to get tickets and they were $1000 sorry to say just more than my budget would allow ( really concience , could have used plastic ) and had to call CK and say i couldn't get there .
guess i am one of the different ones i go to Texas to hunt bunnies , pigs and Javies is just gravy !!
is the black bush blooming , alergies killed me for a week or more after i got home !!
do have some good news . wrote the 4hr exam last night at 10 pm ,found the last two HS codes in last 3 min of exam .
got a call after 11 pm from instructors saying they would see me today , which meant i passed ,so now will have a job .
Brian you have a good one and get all the spines out ,will take a couple of weeks ;) --- all the best --- herb
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Charlie Lamb on March 10, 2006, 08:23:00 AM
Post by: Charlie Lamb on March 10, 2006, 08:23:00 AM
Herb... bad news, good news! The bad news is you can't justify the expense this year. The good news... next year you can!!! Yeah baby. :thumbsup:
Congrats on the job dude. ;)
Congrats on the job dude. ;)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: herb haines on March 10, 2006, 08:56:00 AM
Post by: herb haines on March 10, 2006, 08:56:00 AM
Charlie as soon as ck sets date for 2007 going to get my vacation time set --- herb
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Littlefeather on March 10, 2006, 09:15:00 AM
Post by: Littlefeather on March 10, 2006, 09:15:00 AM
You will be sorely missed this year Herb. We do understand your position and are proud of you for your recent accomplishments. Im thinking seriously on making the Sweat a 5 day event next year. See ya next year Bud! CK
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian McIntyre on March 10, 2006, 11:07:00 AM
Post by: Brian McIntyre on March 10, 2006, 11:07:00 AM
That was an AWESOME read!! I was laughing out loud (thankfully nobody else is home) when Brian was getting his quarry stolen left and right. The kicker was in the end when the last two bunnies were gone... :D Not too fond of that snake moment. Maine is pretty much a snake-free zone. I will have to remember to bring a change of clothes with me should I make it there. I certainly would have needed them. :eek: Curtis, thanks for your part of the story as well. I definitely felt I was there. You guys were very descriptive in your writing. Thanks so much.
Brian
-----------------------------------------------
The good ole days, when gay was happy and queer was weird........
Brian
-----------------------------------------------
The good ole days, when gay was happy and queer was weird........
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: herb haines on March 10, 2006, 11:29:00 AM
Post by: herb haines on March 10, 2006, 11:29:00 AM
CK now that would sound good to me . will be calling maybe Monday night before you and Charlie head south .seemed to be a descrepency (to much money in the check for the Vario or i charged you too much ) you want me to maill the extras off out west ?off to work they are treating us to Pizza tonight to celebrate ---- herb
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 10, 2006, 04:51:00 PM
Post by: Brian Halbleib on March 10, 2006, 04:51:00 PM
Congrats Herb! It's always great to hear about a fellow TradGanger getting ahead. Best of luck to you.
I heard plenty of Herb stories (all good of course) and the Kellars miss you. You know Debbie loves to cook and she'll have a cheesecake ready for you when you go back, guaranteed. Ask for her own special recipie peanut butter and chocolate cheesecake. Don't let Curtis hear you though 'cause he likes plain old regular cheesecake. Did I mention she made homemade ice cream too while I was there? :notworthy:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
I heard plenty of Herb stories (all good of course) and the Kellars miss you. You know Debbie loves to cook and she'll have a cheesecake ready for you when you go back, guaranteed. Ask for her own special recipie peanut butter and chocolate cheesecake. Don't let Curtis hear you though 'cause he likes plain old regular cheesecake. Did I mention she made homemade ice cream too while I was there? :notworthy:
-Brian
www.bowyersjournal.com (http://www.bowyersjournal.com)
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Guru on March 10, 2006, 05:03:00 PM
Post by: Guru on March 10, 2006, 05:03:00 PM
Herb, Congrats...I'm happy for ya bud!!!! One of these days we'll get together somewhere to shake hands.Till then.... :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brians Adventure(trophy pics)
Post by: Gary Kellar on March 10, 2006, 10:00:00 PM
Post by: Gary Kellar on March 10, 2006, 10:00:00 PM
Herb -
It's certainly unfortunate that we'll be unable to meet this year, Curtis speaks of you frequently and I know the other veterans, along with the bunnies, will sorely miss you this year.
But . . . do you think just maybe you could send them big ol pannies down just for the week?!?!?!?!!["[redneck]"]("graemlins/redneck.gif" "\"\"")
GK
It's certainly unfortunate that we'll be unable to meet this year, Curtis speaks of you frequently and I know the other veterans, along with the bunnies, will sorely miss you this year.
But . . . do you think just maybe you could send them big ol pannies down just for the week?!?!?!?!
GK