Trad Gang
Topic Archives => Memorable Hunts => Topic started by: Shaun on February 24, 2009, 08:44:00 PM
I saw there was an update thread started, but I have a bunch of pics and a couple stories and figured we all should be back by now. So here is the TXS09 post hunt report.
I hit the road a week ago Friday and the first leg of my journey was a short hop just over the west coast of Iowa to the home of an avid Bear archery collector. I met this fine fellow through the History/Collecting forum and was invited to come view his stuff. I have a particular interest in the pre fiberglass bows by Grumley and I doubt there is a better collection of early Bear stuff anywhere.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09045.jpg)
From just after noon to past midnight I was shown through a daydream of 1940-1960 archery history. We only came up once to eat venison chili and clear the fresh snowfall off the drive. There were several cases of osage Grumleys and my host allowed me to measure and photo detail some choice specimens for my education. I plan to try my hand at reproducing and learning from the work of this master bowyer. Here is one part of the Grumley portion of this incredible collection.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09049.jpg)
I managed to get up early - nothing like a hunting trip to make it easy to rise - and was soon on the road south. It was just above zero and the was a freezing fog to decorate the roadside.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09054.jpg)
Oh man Shaun you lucky dog!
There are too damn many states between Iowa and Texas and once you get to the biggest of the lower 48 your are only half way to most hunting spots. I rolled into camp at mid day Sunday and was soon surrounded by like minded souls. Andy (Tradtusker) brought his dad and dang if it looked like the apple had fallen close to the tree - an older scruffier version of the baby faced killer. They had provided camp with a propane indoor campfire that was just the ticket for the cool nights and fire ban drought of west TX.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09059.jpg)
L-R Andy's dad Allen, Larry, Curtis, Doctor John (MO Sherpa)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09058.jpg)
I did my best to get hero pics of most of the kills, but the pace was fast and the group an experienced bunch. The reports from the few who had arrived early indicated an increased number of javies from last year and hogs moving before dark.
Mel (Irish) wasted no time on the first official hunt day (Monday) as he put down this dog coyote with his Black Widow. A fine stick bow trophy
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09063.jpg)
The days run together and the action was furious. I can't remember which and who, but the pics are in chronological order.
Sweat members feel free to jump in with your own pics and story details anytime...
Curtis is plain poison on hogs. If you have only one arrow and a camp to feed, give it to this guy. He set the pace early in the hunt by bringing down this fine red and black
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09067.jpg)
Don't get in a shooting contest with Andy. He's the kind of guy that has to back up so he won't ruin his nocks. And he does not seem to come apart like some (me) folks under the pressure of a critter in front of him. How about this fine duo?
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09069.jpg)
He did a great campfire rendition of this hunt with some SA accented accounts of the bristled up group of javies that wanted his hide.
Mel got in the javies too and followed up a femoral hit with a couple to the noggin as Andy raised the corrugated tin this fellow had taken refuge under and promptly dropped it as gnashing tusks and puffed up charges followed. It was a bit dicey and Dave and I were there lending moral support and looking for things to climb between shots.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09077.jpg)
Lots more pics to upload. Here's an Odessa sunrise to hold you for now.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09074.jpg)
Glad to see you made it home Shaun. Great pics and as always a pleasure sharing camp with you.
Great pics and stories as always Shaun! Keep em coming - and the rest of you fellows too!
Gotta love that indoor campfire pit! :biglaugh:
Is that traditional?
Love it!! Great pics, makes me wish I were there. Hope to go next year if there is room. :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :campfire:
Very traditional campfire and well liked by all. Allen not only brought the fire but he knows bow hunting. He took a fine javie boar and had it under the knife before I could catch him for a hero pic. He also had a super digital camera and no doubt will post some high quality pics when he gets caught up on chores.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09094.jpg)
CK said this was a monster mean old boar with his ears chewed off and face covered with scares from fights to keep his royal position in the herd.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09095.jpg)
well iv just finished dinner
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090225_0632.jpg)
mmm you gotta love that wild Howg Meat
well we had a great trip once again good fun with friends around camp and adventures hunting. i Spent a few days in the Texas hill country after the sweat and she is certainly easyer on the eys then the pumps and plains of Oddesa but it always had its special moments.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090218_0595.jpg)
As above Mel Shot a great Coyote walk and stalk with his deadly Widow! very impressive that certainly does not happen often for a stick bow hunter :notworthy: :clapper: Congrats again Buddy.
MO Sherpa - Doctor John - brought in the only rattler seen on the hunt. I later heard from the local hog dogger Delbert that these were bringing $9/lb and a grand (Yes, $1,000) for over six footers that are used for boots. This five footer was headed to the skillet.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09092.jpg)
John had seen a BIG pig at the water hole he was hunting - reported to be as tall as the third strand of barb wire. John is hard core and hunted all hours. Here he is trying out one of Curtis' home built night hog light rigs on his Shrew.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09106.jpg)
He got close, real close, a couple times but never got the clean kill shot angle and held off.
then to Top it off Shaun Schooled a Fine yote with his trusty Old Bear and decided to cut its education short when it came back for seconds bringing down the second Coyote for the trip! also very impressive and a fine trophy. congrats again!
hows that 2 yote's for a trad camp aint bad going!
Joe,
You need to get those fire places on your inventory list. It was a great gizzmo with a disc for cooking that sat on the steel frame over the fire. It came with a real neat lid that just fastened ontop and kept all intact inside. It would be the cats meow for inside a canvas tent.
Dave Stinson is great company in camp and took the big pig half of the pool by harvesting the TWO largest pigs taken. Number one
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09088.jpg)
And a couple days later, number two
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09090.jpg)
Both fine boars with some serious chompers.
yip John spent the hole night in pursuit of the "big Black One" bringing Robert along for the Adventure who im sure sorely missed his trusty tent heater :bigsmyl: :rolleyes:
he used CK's night hunting rig
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090219_0611-2.jpg)
Robert did not get much hog action early though he later found the javies. To keep sharp he put the smack down on some cotton tails and these were soon in the cooler. He can smile, but after a couple nights keeping up with Doc, he was a little tired.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09098.jpg)
Two yotes with trad gear in one trip. That is quite the acheivment, congrats Mel and Shaun on some fine shootin. :thumbsup:
Doc John sure gets the Dedication Award on this trip. He spent his whole week and many a night on watch for this big old black boar that showed himself briefly a few times. I sure was rootin for Doc and was looking forward to the hero shots on that one. But as fate would have it, not this year. He`ll be bigger next year Doc!
Last January Charlie Lamb and I stopped by Curtis and Debbie's place for a one night visit. The big Marine has special status with Debbie and she had not only fixed a fine dinner with his favorite cheese cake desert, but had made an extra cheese cake for him to take home. We were a couple hours away the next morning before he remembered it was still back in the freezer - touch and go for a turn around, but we pressed on.
Can you believe that very same cheese cake arrived at the Sweat?
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09099.jpg)
Charlie, I am sure that you will be gratified to learn it did not go to waste...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09104.jpg)
There was one piece left over... but I ate it for you.
these pictures and the story lines are just great thanks much for sharing
the day before the Hunt whilst out with Curtis and Mel scouting we ran into a heap of Javi's i decided to spend the first day to chasing them, i had them figured out and all i needed was them to show themselves and i would do the rest.
After a windy and cold first morning the javi's where not moving but i stuck it out. im not much for sitting in blinds so i did plenty of walking covering plenty of ground over the hunt trying to figure out where the pigs where holding up during the day.
After walking many a sand dune i decided to make my way back to the water and dusk approached, wind was not ideal but i thew a quick brush blind together and kept an eye on the water.
then the unmistakable sound of a Javi's surrounded me one of the boar came in from down wind and decided to come take a look at what i was he stood at about 4m grunting and popping at me, whilst i wondered if he was figuring on getting in there with me and how exactly i was going to stop him, i could not think of a option that did would not result in me getting a touch up from this choppers.
After some time he decided i was cool and ran over to the rest of the group that where mingling around the water.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090217_0586.jpg)
Back about mid day tomorrow for a bunch more photos and some tall tales. Night all.
Great start, thanks for sharing Shaun.
Great thread. Thanks to all for their posts and the photos.
This is good stuff!Thanks for sharing.
Leland
Great pics!
I'm not sure what series ov events fits in what order anymore. It all just runs together in a blurr of fun and food and piggies running around. What a great time!!!
Lets see?
This would be "camp comfy" without the pizazz. As Allen said in a quote from his Grandfather, "any fool can be uncomfortable". LOL! I took lots of good ribbing for my white trash trailer but I was warm and the 60 mph wind didn't blow me away. :readit: (http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/Home.JPG)
I think I shot the red sow on day one. Thanks for posting the pic. I didn't get any pics of her. Day two found me on a mid-day trip to the well road where Frank had been staking out. There seemed to be an endless supply of javis there so I slipped in to try out one of Asgir's cool 300 extreems. Luck was with me.
The broadhead worked great.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/extreemjavi.JPG)
By day 3 I was strickened with a tad of jealousy by Daves cool landscaped pit blind so I became a gopher and dug in. It only makes sence to use the cover we had so I used the dirt. It worked on group after group o hogs even up to the last night.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/pitblind.JPG)
Thanks for teaching a hog dog a new trick Dave. :thumbsup: Of course it might have cost you half the pot. :biglaugh:
I'll try and post before the morning hunt. Good night. CK
Looks like a great hunt for all. Congrats to all the hunters.
Bisch
I'm loving this! Keep 'em coming.
Hey Jason, Did you recognize your lights. They work great!!!We'll be using them again tomorrow night. We need to talk soon. CK
This was a great bunch of guys to share a camp and days afield with. I was able to hunt with Ken, Curtis, Dave, Andy and his dad Allen. I wished that I could of spent time with all. Next year Frank, Doc, Shawn, Larry and Roger, I hope to chase some critters with you. The time in camp was a special as our days hunting. A little cold at night, I though at times that we were going to loose a couple to frost bite!! :D And if anyone is looking for a PH for havies, look no further than Andy - even though he did not protect me from the charge of the "wild boar havie"!
Those lights on the bow look cool. Anyone have any close up pictures. Looks like a Sweat...Doc
to many great pics to comment on them all, looks like an overall fun and successful time
One more before turning in, got the rest of the good pics uploaded. Too tired to tell a hunting story, but gotta keep Vance happy. Volunteers for super each night. Rob and Ken did fajitas - chicken and pork...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09187.jpg)
Dave did venison backstraps and sausages with salad, Spanish rice and of desert from Charlie as above.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09107.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09108.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09110.jpg)
CK did smoked hog, Doc John did chicken breasts with onion coating, green beans and dressing, Mel did chili, rice and beans from Larry. We ate late, but no one went hungry. Dang it, made myself hungry just thinking about it all, quick snack and off to bed.
The light is a tweeked design that Westbrock came up with. He knew I was having trouble with the ones I was using so he used some super-dupr engineering and some tape and I ended up with some awesome gifts. I'll get better pics tomorrow. CK
i knew i had plenty of time so i waited it out for a good shot when one of them turned away i raised my bow and put some bend in the limbs of my trusty shrew the shot was good but maybe a few inches higher than i would have liked, he burst out of there but had no idea what happened i saw him go lay down not 30m from where i hit him the others did not know what happened and stayed in sight,
i sat there thinking this is one of the things i love about bowhunting, i shot one and the others don't know what happened.
after a while they where in range again, this time i had a Big 2 blade on i again waited for the right shot...broadside, head down i again started the tension on the string as i drew i told my self make a solid shot, i hit anchor and my arrow locked poised like a snake ready to strike, the string ripped from my fingers and i watched as the arrow blew effortlessly through the vitals, shining red with blood as it lay beyond the animal. the Javi ran 20 yards let out a Roar and fell to the earth, one of his buddys went and sat next to him wondering what was up.
i looked back at the first javi and saw he was still alive i knew i would have to get another arrow in it now that the group where spooked after getting down wind and seeking in i shot him again, the other Javi' were going crazy popping there jaws all around me i had one arrow left and he was still standing so i shot again prob no need but " if they'r still standing... im still shooting"
now i was out of arrows and i knew he was dead, but there where javi's everywhere and they were not happy, 2 of the younger ones where right behind be and way to brave for their size, they looked like 2 puffed of soccer balls with a sharp end that i really didn't want to poke with my trusty shrew but it was either that or feed them some high velocity African leather boot if they got any closer, finally i went for the truly trad, fist sized rock to chased them off.
great fun getting those javi's in that close action.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090217_0587.jpg)
we had plenty to eat! (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090219_0613.jpg)
i had shot my 2 javi's and after picking up Mel we had 2 come out in the road so i drove back got Ken and they put the stalk on the javi's as i watched over Mels shoulder soon Ken was in range and i got Mel to move in, Ken shot just missing and the Javi took off strait towards Mel roaring and barking until it saw Mel's black widow at full draw in its path.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090219_0605.jpg)
"do you like Snake Skins?" Doc Asks as i stand there wandering why the bag his is holding is rattling :thumbsup:
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090218_0600.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090218_0596.jpg)
QuoteOriginally posted by Shaun:
Charlie, I am sure that you will be gratified to learn it did not go to waste...
There was one piece left over... but I ate it for you.
:biglaugh: :biglaugh:
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090217_0591.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090219_0614.jpg)
QuoteOriginally posted by tradtusker:
[QB] (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090218_0602.jpg)
Doc, I remembered you as being a little taller... :biglaugh:
QuoteOriginally posted by Littlefeather:
Hey Jason, Did you recognize your lights. They work great!!!We'll be using them again tomorrow night. We need to talk soon. CK
How could I forget those things? I still have a scar on my hand and a blood trail on my basement floor. :eek:
Yeah, we need to make some plans. I'll try to give you a call soon.
QuoteOriginally posted by knife river:
quote:
Originally posted by tradtusker:
[QB] (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090218_0602.jpg)
Doc, I remembered you as being a little taller... :archer:
This is great stuff! My favorite kinda threads! Looking forward to tomorrows postings! :campfire:
My quota of Javi's
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090216_3357.jpg)
Sounds like a great time guys, love it, thanks
Great thread you guys, enjoyed it!
:readit:
Here's Larry getting fueled up on some grub. Lerry the lurker doesn't post much but he's a hell of a guy.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/LARRYSNACKS.JPG)
And here's our buddy Robert showing off his daily prize around the kitchen. I bethis wife doesn't allow javi's in her kitchen. :readit:
Robert fell in with us last year when he won a trip to Texas Sweat. It was Roberts first group Trad hunt and he got hooked. He took his first trad hog last year and followed it up with his first trad javi this year. Wy to go Robert! :clapper: Nicely done!
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/Robertjavi.JPG)
More later. Gotta get hunters coffee'd and out hunting now. CK
Awesome, awesome awesome!!!!
Luv'n every word and pic fellas :clapper:
Looking forward to a lot more :pray:
(http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g56/huntit/TexasSweat08114.jpg)
Here is a picture of my favourite place on the ranch other than camp of course. A little digging and some landscaping got the old waterhole pit ready to go for this year.
The first night was slow until 5:45 when I heard a pig grunt from close by. A quick peek through the landscaping showed a big black hog coming to water. As he cruised the waters edge I readied for a shot and waited for the right time. He was drinking head on to me and gave no shot for some time. He then headed up the bank to leave, this gave me the perfect quartering away shot I was looking for. The 300Xtreme tipped Grizzly stick was on it's way. The 5yrd shot hit home but looked a little farther back than I preferred at first glance. As the hog departed I saw the arrow fletching hanging near back end. I thought i had hit him a little far back and decided to leave him until morning to search.
The next morning saw Shaun, Andy, Mel and I head out to search for two hogs. Andy had had a great evening the night prior and had bagged two havies that he retrieved and then hit a hog at last light as he was heading out. We went in search of Andy's hog first. Unfortunately we did not find that hog. In the process of searching both Shaun and Mel had shots on havies as well. It seemed they where everywhere. Shaun's havie was hit high and we figured he was just fine and off telling all his buddies about the Motley Crue at the water hole. Mel's havie was hit well and took refuge under some tin roofing near a coral. What followed was more like the havie fight at the Ok Coral. That havie charged and tried to eat Mel and had a few of us looking for trees to climb. A few silver dollars (Flames) later Mel had the havie in the bag. We then headed for my waterhole. Not 500yrds down the road a pack of havies were sighted and we all bailed out. After a mean footchase through the thorns I connected on a havie. It was a quartering away shot and the shaft was in to the nock, length wise from back to front. That havie took off on a mad death run and nearly ran Andy over. A Lot of searching produced no havie. The long golden grass in the area made it almost impossible to find anything unless you stepped on it. Off to the waterhole we headed. After finding no blood trail and searching far and wide Andy tripped over my hog not 80yrds from the waterhole. Thanks Andy. Once we had him we could see that the shot was not all that far back and the forward angle had produced a 300xtreme hole through the hogs heart.
Another shot of Robert's javie. It takes a good shot to put one of these stinkers down in sight. They are tough as old shoe leather and don't like to leave a blood trail.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09193.jpg)
so what was the final "kill" total for how many men?
i couldnt keep track!!!
how many days,how many guys,how much game?
not to mention the ones youve passed up!
wow.lots of hunting down there!
ill get with littlefeather for sure for a hunt!
jamie
Robert does smile - I saw him do it!!
Dave;
No helicopters around the waterhole this year?
Great pictures and stories guys! You make us all feel as though we're there with you, and wish we could have been. Every picture of Robert looks like he just sat in a prickly pear, what's up with that?
POP
I had a good shot opportunity almost every day. Many of them were very close and only pilot error prevented me from bringing home the bacon on several occasions.
My best day afield was spent at windmill #12 where the pre hunt crew had constructed a lovely pit blind with "landscaping" just 5 yards south from the spill water hole. Allen hunted this spot a couple of mornings but no one had tried the afternoon shift. I kept the spot corned and waited for a north wind. The north wind finally arrived and I settled in about 2:00 PM with a good book.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09114.jpg)
At around 3:00 I turned a page and looked up. I had been counting on hearing the woof of javies or the jostling and oinking of hogs to break my reading spell. What I was not counting on was a coyote sneaking in for a drink. Right there across the pond was a nice dog yote and on the rise behind his lookout mate. I eased into position and was pleased to note that the coyote seemed unable to pick out my movement as the 1959 Bear Alsakan came back and a cedar shaft sped towards his quartering flank. He took off just as the arrow arrived and somehow he and the arrow appeared to share space but not time. For a while I just looked at the orange shaft with yellow four fletch sticking in the sand on the other bank. Oh well, back to my book.
After a bit I retrieved the arrow and touched up the razorhead tip with a file. About 5:00 I finished the book and looked up to see Mr Dog returning for another sip. His mate trotted along the ridge 80 yards away on alert as he came down the opposite bank again.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09118.jpg)
This time I pulled out the camera and snapped a few pics as he checked for danger and then leaned in for another drink.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09120.jpg)
As he turned to go, I took one more photo
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09117.jpg)
and then raised the bow. This time I focused on the last rib and let fly with a clean release. He got in a half step only before the freshly filed broadhead met its mark. He took off in a streak with shaft showing on both sides and made it almost out of sight before I thought I saw him tumble. I waited a while and then headed towards the last spot I'd seen him. About 80 yards away a dark spot was visible ahead. (Center of photo)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09121.jpg)
:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :clapper: Lovin it Guys!!
I eased up the binos and saw an ear attached to the dark form.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09122.jpg)
There is a thread on the History/Collecting forum about hunting with '59 Bears for the 50th anniversary of these bows. They are some of the best shooting and most collectible of this make and I was trying to honor the man and the memories with this bow. It all came together that afternoon and it felt good.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09123.jpg)
Congrats :thumbsup: to everyone. Love these hunting threads..bhfp
My day was not over. I was to have a chance at the Texas trifecta as about 6:00 the woof of javelina brought the camera out. A nice group of stink pigs came hesitantly in from behind and down wind. They presented a slam dunk chance and everything went perfectly to script
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09130.jpg)
until the human error factor came to fore a few minutes later. &*(()#*(@*
Late afternoon into evening is a special time at a water hole during drought times. The birds kept me entertained and I knew Killy would want photos to allow her to dig out the "Birds of the West" version of Peterson's Guide.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09147.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09152.jpg)
At sunset the doves come. Every water hole in Texas is surrounded by spent 12 gauge shells. I have never been dove hunting, but Texans feel it an obligation to protect each puddle in their state from these tasty morsels. First there are a few sentry birds in the nearby mesquite.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09151.jpg)
When they have established the all clear, a swarm descends for an evening drink.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09157.jpg)
And finally it looks like a skillet hunters dream, though no Texan can wait with a loaded gun for this to happen. They would have blasted the lookouts a half hour before.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09169.jpg)
Great pics Shaun! I'm not sure what the kill count ended up being but there was only one day that I didn't have a shot op on huge groups of hogs. I'm become totally enamored with getting everything on film. I captured every group of hogs I saw on film. I even stalked in for a shot, put the camera down to shoot, and then picked it back up to get the hog running away with my arrow. She went down in 60 yards as I continued to roll footage. I got it all. I managed to blow a couple of shots because I was trying too hard to get it all on film. I did get several kills on film inside of 10 yards. It's tough but it can be done.
The best shoot-out was on the last night when I hunted a water hole that I tried repeatedly to get Ken to hunt. He didn't want to sit close to cows at the water hole so I tried it myself. I ended up with at least 40 hogs inside of 10 yards all at once. Boy were they ever noisy. Some got real dead too. LOL! I even kicked a little one as he tried to run up my leg. :eek: Thanks for the info Ken! :thumbsup: Wish you'd have had an extra day. CK
My chance for the third item of the trifecta came as dark took over just after 7:00. A nice big black boar came in from the west and dipped his snout from the opposite shore. I had set up with a heavier bow and fancy luminok carbon arrow for just this occasion. I made up my mind to wait him out. He would surely come around the pond for some corn and present a 5 yard "hit the side of a barn" shot soon. But as he finished drinking and turned broadside, some demonic force took over and I snap shot cleanly over his back. He trotted up to the ridge and gave serious consideration to coming back, but my silent please for a "Mulligan" went unanswered and he trotted off.
If you are ever driving down I-20 passed Odessa, I doubt you will look over the scrub and oil rigs and think, "Great looking hunting ground. Gotta stop." But you will be missing out on some fine sport as you drive on. I look forward to next time and more sunsets from the blind.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09200.jpg)
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d171/IronBull_/Smileys/awesomesmiley.gif)
DON'T WEAKEN BROTHERS :notworthy: :notworthy: Keep it comin....
A little more FEED would be ENJOYABLE :goldtooth: :goldtooth:
QuoteOriginally posted by Iron Bull:
DON'T WEAKEN BROTHERS :notworthy: :notworthy: Keep it comin....
LOL!!! :biglaugh: :biglaugh:
"Every one goes back in a bag!"
Awesome hunt guys. It's killing me that I couldn't be there this year. Looks like y'all had a fantasticular time of it.
Loving the songdog pics Shaun.
I agree with Rob. Excellent photos. One of them just became my wallpaper on the old Laptop.
Marvin
Gotta say this is one of the best "photodocumented" hunts of all time. Great job guys. It is REAL good to see Curtis around these parts again dropping hogs and smiling his head off. :thumbsup:
Curtis started the hunt with the first hog and had his eye on the second half of the betting pool for the mostest hogs. With Stinson in control of the big pig, CK waded into a hog herd that last evening and secured his half of the pool (the never-in-question most pigs downed money) with judicious application of his modified Bear Montana.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/shaunw/TXS09206.jpg)
Jeff,
No helicopters up close this year. I heard one coming one day and I stood up to keep an eye but it was a little one on some other mission.
I just checked and found that I have a solid three hours of pure piggy video. I finally took the time to document exactly how I was hunting, lay of the land, blind construction,and how I thought the hogs would approach. It was an awesome experience to have things come together several times making the video more of a how-to documentary ending in kills. I can't wait to add this to the other vids I've been gathering for some 7Th Age DVD's.
I've got one pic that's bound to get some serious looks. Let me find the pic of my monster. Be back shortly. CK
As I sat at Ken's water hole on the last evening I managed to video this group of small hogs three times. I found it interesting that they entered the water hole three times without a sow. Finally I realized that the sow must have been killed by another hunter and I felt the young sounder was destined to be coyote food by nightfall. The next time they came in I picked the fattest hog and put a 300 extreem through him lengthwise. Of course they look huge when you sit way behind them.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/photoenhancepiggy.JPG)
I didn't see any reason to let the coyotes have him when I knew how delicious the young ones are. I later found that the sow had indeed been shot inadvertly by another hunter. CK
Day two was quiet at my waterhole as the wind was all wrong. I did some wandering and spotted a monster big black hog off in the distance. At first I was sure it was a cow but it was no cow. That was one hog I don't think I would have chased without some back up in the form of at least one more person to identify my remains and find em before the yotes!
Day three saw me cruisin roads for havies and I missed one that was so close we'd a had to measure it in inches. Some how for me it's the ones I get too close to that get away! That evening found me back in my hole. Just as the last minutes of light were upon me I heard hogs on the road behind me someplace. The wind being somewhat iffy for my spot, I crept out to the road. Right awat i spotted a big black hog feeding my way and the wind was now in my favour. I ducked down and remained still not 10ft off the road. As the hog fed past I arrowed him at 15ft and it was a perfect shoulder shot. I jumped up and watched him make it 40yrds and flop over. Andy was just down the road and he mentioned he had just walked up my direction a few minutes earlier. I think he sent the big guy my way. Here is pic of this one. And no my eyes aint alway like this! We took the picture in the dark so flash burned me a little.
(http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g56/huntit/unsorted023-1.jpg)
Hey Pop I think those rabbits and that javie was so heavy I was straining to hold them up. :eek:
Shaun you did a great job of taking pictures thanks for posting It was a Great hunt I had a blast. Hope to make it next year.
Quoteno my eyes aint alway like this! We took the picture in the dark so flash burned me a little.
Yea, Right!!!!And the grey looking stuff in my goat is just there because of the right lighting. :readit: :biglaugh:
:thumbsup:
Way to go guys!!! Thanks for taking the time to share it all with us! Looks like way too much fun!
CK - Put me on the list for some 7th Age DVD's, that sounds like some great footage you got. I too have started to fall in love with trying to film my hunts, so far it has been a blast!
Jake
way to go buddy! And hey that baby is a lefty!!
:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :clapper:
Awesome pics and stories, sorry I missed it. I hope I can come next year.
I learned a couple of things about hogs at the Sweat this year that I would like to share with any of you that are planning to go on one of these hunts.
Robert (Son of Texas) and I hunted together and we both put up double bull type blinds on a corned roadway. The hogs had been hitting the corn on this road before we got there. After we put up those blinds the corn was still there two days later. The hogs wouldn't go within a 100 yards of those blinds. My advice is leave your blinds at home unless you can leave them up for more than a week to let the hogs get accustomed to them.
Third day late in the afternoon I glassed a big boar hog feeding toward the blind. I was about a mile away. I hot footed my way through the mesquite to get close enough to stalk this big pig. The wind had just changed direction as this stalk was beginning. About the time I was 150 yard from this hog feeding towards me the wind picked up my double blind and carried it across the road. It was horrible, almost slow motion as that blind tumbled across the road scaring that hog away. Never saw the hog again. I folded up the blind and put it in the truck that night, not to be used again.
The other thing is lights. The first night, well after sundown a big black boarhog came into the waterhole. I was positioned behind some thorny scrub about 15 yards away, the wind was in my face perfect. It was dark and I could only see the sillouette of the boar, busy eating the scattered corn on his way to the waterhole. I could not see to shoot even though he was 15 yards or less from me. I had attached a fenix flashlight with a red filter to my headband and was accustomed to shooting at night with this light. I touched the on switch for a nanosecond and the big hog buggered off about 50 yards, unsure of what he had seen. He fed back towards me and I hit the light again and he was gone for good. You cannot use a light with these big old boars. I tried to use one of Curtis's hog lights on the last night but did not have any hogs come in. Leave your blinds and redbeam lights at home.
I hunted a lot after sundown and I spent a couple of nights out real late staying out until 4:00 one morning and going out at 4:30 another morning. These big boars come in at all hours during the night. I never saw one during the day. You can stalk up on them if they are making some noise, chomping on corn and blowing bubbles in the mud. I was able to get within 8 yards of one in the middle of the night while he was preoccupied eating and drinking but he was able to skyline me in the pitch black darkness by my shadow cast by the glow of the lights from the refinery 3 miles away. They are touchy about the most minute little noise, real touchy if they get a nosefull of you and they can see movement or light as good as most game I can think of. They are on full alert at the water hole and you will probably have a better chance at drawing on one of these while they are on the trail. In the future I will rely more on ambush of the hog before they get to the waterhole. A ghillie suit hides you pretty good in the thorny scrub and if you prepare a good hide where you can draw on them without making noise you probably have a better chance than sitting right on top of them where they go to drink.
As far as corning roads is concerned, you can put out a lot of corn and there are critters out there that will eat it, all of it. I didn't figure out until later in the week I need to pare down the size of the area that I corn and make sure I have a good quiet hiding place set up in the middle of the corned area rather than trying to corn a mile of road and stalking Javelina and hogs as they randomly mill about up and down the length of the road. Need to focus and plan better.
Treestands. First I didn't see a substanial tree in our part of west Texas that would hold me up but that did not dissuade me from trying to use one. I figured that a hog keeps his nose to the ground and has no reason to look up. That may be true but I spent the better part of 2 days and one night in a cold blowing wind trying to ambush a pig on a well used corned trail. The corn would always disappear but when? If I couldn't cast a light on a hog in the dark I couldn't execute this plan. I abandoned the powerline pole treestand ambush after a couple of days. I will stick to the ground and a ghillie for a good hide. I will be leaving my treestand at home next trip too.
There is a learning curve on hunting these animals and I made some more progress towards understanding them this year. I am looking forward to exacting some revenge on them next year.
I'm happy to see you sharing these thoughts Doc. I try and try to explain all these details but a good hunter takes some advice and tries it mixed with his own ideas. That's what brings the feelings of success when we've done things our way. Good to know that you went away from the hunt with an expanded knowlege base and greater understanding. Big hogs are big for the same reasons big bucks get big. They are smart and got that way by avoiding death.
The best way to stalk game here is to stalk around them and let them walk into you. If you try and stalk straight in it almost always ends in failure especially in crunchy, sparse terrain. That's the best advice I can give any hunter who wants to spot and stalk here. CK
I have found the very highest shot opportunity method is to wait, and wait, and wait. If you are going crazy and at least half of your mind is screaming that it is time to get up and move, you are almost there. Soon after you resign yourself to spending the rest of your life in that stupid non productive spot, you will have action.
It is a big help to corn an area and build a blind. Then, keep baiting and wait for the proper wind to hunt the spot. I try to keep my blind at least 5 yards off the spot, preferably 10 yards. It is unbelievably hard to draw an arrow when a hog or javie is so close you can reach out and touch him. The closer you are - the more sensitive they are to movement or noise. This seems to be a geometric inverse. At 50 yards you can move and make small noises. At 20 yards you can move your bow slowly. At 4 yards you cannot blink, breathe or even think to much or they will bolt.
Javelina are a joy to hunt with trad gear. They are cute but alert, comical but dangerous. They just plain make me smile.
Big hogs are a full blown challenge. You might get lucky and stumble into one, but most are taken by experienced hunters who put in the work and woodscraft.
Gotta love Texas in the winter.
Great thread guys! It looks like you've all had a fantastic hunt! Thanks for sharing! ;) Look forward to the rest! :D
Good stuff guys....thanks for sharing ...and keep it coming!
Shawn, I know what you mean by being too close. During the last night of the hunt, I had a big (huge) black boar at 4 yards. I think he heard my heart beating when I was at half draw. That was exciting!!!
this is GREAT!! thank you for the pic and story :cool: :thumbsup: :clapper: :clapper:
QuoteOriginally posted by Whip:
QuoteOriginally posted by hunt it:
Here is pic of this one. And no my eyes aint alway like this! We took the picture in the dark so flash burned me a little.
(http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g56/huntit/unsorted023-1.jpg)
I think that should read "only after driving 28 hours straight and downing those fun little pills all the way"
:bigsmyl: :bigsmyl: [/b]
Now now Joe, I aint never taken any pills to stay awake, thats what Red Bull and full throttle's for. I take those pills to go to sleep. Last time we took pics in dark with everyone's headlamps on and it messed up pics so this time I told Andy to turn out all lights and shoot in dark. I think there is a happy medium someplace there.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090214_3198.jpg)
pink power
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090214_3203.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3229.jpg)
Irish...can you tell :D
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3236.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3241.jpg)
cutting the necessary's for Dave's landscaping
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3256.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3265.jpg)
how many guys does it take to put up a pop up blind? (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3280.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3287.jpg)
how about Larry's 74 pole tent :knothead: :biglaugh:
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3310.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3320.jpg)
our pig slaying leader
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3324.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090215_3346.jpg)
Well done Mel what a trophy!
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090216_3352.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090216_3358.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090216_3368.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090217_3370.jpg)
action shot for the gang
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3428.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3409.jpg)
this big water tank offer a great vantage point, we spend many an hour on it, Ck and i called in a Yote one day from the top.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3478.jpg)
the wild and woolly mountain man, My dad
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3534.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3543.jpg)
My Dad got into the Javi one afternoon and put a monster on the ground :notworthy: :clapper:
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090218_3378.jpg)
here is a comparison between Robert's and Allan's Javi's heads
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3405.jpg)
And finally a nice one of the Group, minus ken who had to get back to work.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20090220_3432.jpg)
from left to right
back row ;
Allan, Mel, Curtis, Me, John, Robert, Larry
front ;
Frank, Shaun, Dave
all pics above thanks to Allan :thumbsup: :clapper:
Somebody said it earlier, but it bears repeating. This thread is one of the most well documented photo essays I've ever seen. Outstanding pictures from so many of you!
Thanks!!!!!
QuoteOriginally posted by Whip:
Somebody said it earlier, but it bears repeating. This thread is one of the most well documented photo essays I've ever seen. Outstanding pictures from so many of you!
Thanks!!!!!
This is most certainly a good one. Congrats to all of you and thanks for sharing.
CS
Great thread, those Javi's sure look like fun!
and great pics.
Thanks
Seeking shelter before the nightime desert temperatures set in.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/yellowjacket.JPG)
My water trough from the last lights shoot-out.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/waterhole.JPG)
My ever present companion. It's not the same as having Dad film but it documents well.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/trustycamera.JPG)
Another look at Shauns trophy.
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/Shauncoyote.JPG) Congrats again Shaun.
And something as American as Apple Pie. Jiffy Pop!
(http://www.tradgang.com/upload/ck/Jiffypop.JPG)
You younger guys probably don't know about the original microwave pop-corn that didn't require the microwave. It came in a time when young folks watched "Leave it to Beaver" and "Happy Days" on TV. The Fonze would ride his old Triumph motorcycle into the TV screen as you sit and shake the tin tray of Jiffy Pop over the flame on the stove top. Pop,pop,pop,pop!!! Sure brought back some memories when Dave brought out the ol familiar pop corn from the past. I said "I'm an old pro. Let me make it"........ And the rest history as they say. CK
Great stories & Pic's...thanx for sharing.
Over the years the "Sweat" threads have always been among my favorite of the year. I look forward to it every winter. If this one isn't the best, it certainly is "as good" as any of them. :thumbsup: :notworthy:
Thanks guys....great stuff!
Allen, that was a huge havie!!! Did anyone notice the green and black thing hanging from the ceiling in some of the indoor shots - my bow was not the only black widow in camp!! I still don't know where that spider came from, but it greeted us each day as we inetered the building.
Congrats to everyone and thanks for sharing your pictures and stories. Great Sweat thread as usual!
Hey Mel, I brought that spider for camp mascot. It's been hanging in my garage since haloween and I thought a big Tarantula would look good in vamp.
Curt,
You gotta come do the Sweat with us some year! Bunch of us guys would love to share camp with you. All you would have to do is get south of me someplace and your more than welcome to ride shotgun!
That was fantastic! Thanks, guys, for giving me an idea what goes on at at a sweat. Hopefully, I'll be able to make it next year.. Once we get fully settled in the new digs, and I get myself back into some semblance of "shape", I hope to be able to spend the next 10 or so years doing adventure hunts with my buds!
I'm also really glad that you young guys are able to do this now, while you can really "go at it". Store those memories away until the time you can pull off a good yarn along with a good cigar around the campfire!! I'll bring the scotch!
Angus, I'm not that young!!!! 596 days from the big 6-0, but who's counting.
pink power ??
i prefer starbacuks double shots
Dave, I'll take you up on that ride sometime!! Thanx
I thought we'd finally secured you last year Curt. Sorry to have missed you. As always, you are welcome anytime. It would be great to have you with us. Thanks to the rest of you for the comments as well. Off to scout for the evening hunt now. CK
Great thread. Congrats to all. Thanks for sharing. :thumbsup: :notworthy:
It was hard enough not being there with you all, but you just had to eat my dang cheese cake.
Now that riles me up!!! :banghead:
It was mighty tasty Charlie!! We even saved ya a piece but after 10 mins Shaun said guess Charlie doesn't want it and it evapourated fast.
I voted to save it for you Charile, but got out voted. Sorry. :goldtooth:
Excellent stories! Sounds like a great time.
Hi Guys
Thanks for the great sweat really enjoyed your company. Already a stack of great photos of the hunt here are some more. I have put a gallery together here is the link: http://www.mesarvresort.us/files/images/texas/index.html hope you enjoy!!
--------------------
Allan
Allen, Beautiful photographs! I'll certainly look you and Andy up when I'm in Crested Butte this summer visiting my son.
The Sweat holds a special place in my heart...sorry I missed ya'll this year. tippit
Wow Allan, that is a beautiful documentary of your hunt! I enjoyed every one!
Anyone notice how in most every shot of the indoor fire pit CK is closest to the flame? :p
Cheers Tippit
Sorry we missed you on the sweat We had a great bunch of guys and a good time was had by all. Look forward to seeing you up our way we have plenty of room. Been admiring your knives had a chance to see one up close on the sweat keep up the good work I am going to be needing one of them soon!!
CK is not as tough as he looks we had to drag him out of his cosy little camper every morning at about 11 when it had warmed up some glad you enjoyed the photos
Great job Allan
:wavey: Hi Allan! Nice to see you here. Sorry I couldn't be with you this time out, it looks like I missed a great hunt :(
Awesome pics, awesome stories!!! Thanks guys for taking us along. It sure looks like everyone had a great time.
Wow Allan, I now have a much better understanding in the difference between photography (what you do) and plain old picture taking (what I do). You have a great gift for allowing those of us that could not make it to tag along and enjoy the trip through your eyes, and what a great trip it was.
Thanks for sharing!
POP
Great to see you post POP. I enjoyed talking to you while I was in Texas, even if it was only on the phone.
What was the temps like? CK any rain since this hunt ended?
Looks like Y'all had a great time.
Mr. Lamb, well you can't be to hard on them for eating Your Cheeeeeeeezeeeeeee cake.... They did tell you about it, Could have been put on the QT, under their hats, not even posted.. You know what I mean... Plus They all said it was Good..
Temps? You had to ask, 94 degrees today. We're expecting a cold front to hit later today bring us down to a frigid 72 degrees. Better get out a sweater and some wool socks. :bigsmyl:
Allen, Fantastic collage! Wish you had narriated it it that English accent with all your colorful experssions. You are an Artist I tell ya! Both in language and photography.
:wavey: Hey Dad, good to see you. Lets go fishing on Wednesday if the weather holds. CK
Hey Pops good to see you up and around!!!! Sure missed you in camp. Hope your well enough to go fishin Wednesday. Please take us along and send a few pictures of Pop and Son out fishin. Miss ya!
Hi Pop
Glad you enjoyed the pics pity you couldn't join us. It was a great group of Guys and pigs walking in front of your bow is a bonus. I don't know what you guys did with the weather but we were sure looking forward to getting back to Gunnison for some warm weather! :pray:
Rob
How did your hunt go? and how are all the preparations going? You sure missed a good hunt short on pigs but the javies were good fun.
:notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
Hey Pop/Mr Kellar/Ahh Heck I'm the same age---Gary how are you doing? When you're feeling up to it give me and JC a call and we'll make a fishing trio :thumbsup: Doc
Alan,
Wonderful pictures. What is the camera you are using?
For that matter this entire thread was an awesome bunch of pictures.
The sweat lives on!!!
Hi Guys . . . Thanks for all the kind words, hope to see each of you sometime in the future! Sure did miss getting to see everyone.
Doc - come on down, sounds like CK has a fishing trip up his sleeve already, and it would sure be great to have you and Joe here to join us!
Allan - Meant to tell you earlier, that's one fine son you have, you have every reason to be extremely proud of him!
POP
Very nice pics as always Allan! ;) Looks like u guys had a blast! :D
Chris
I am using a canon 1ds mk3 bit big to lug aroung on a hunt but it seldom leaves my side.
Cheers Pop we are proud of him took a lot of beating to get him into shape but it has payed off!!
Quotetook a lot of beating to get him into shape but it has payed off!!
:saywhat:
I had no clue that you guys used Texas child rearing techniques in South Africa as well.... :goldtooth:
QuoteOriginally posted by Littlefeather:
Quotetook a lot of beating to get him into shape but it has payed off!!
:saywhat:
I had no clue that you guys used Texas child rearing techniques in South Africa as well.... :goldtooth: [/b]
Now THAT is funny!
Allan, you should be and I know you are proud of your son. A GREAT YOUNG MAN. I have enjoyed hunting with him the last two years, and getting a chance next year will be one of the high lights of the Sweat for me. By the way, I very much enjoyed having you in camp this year, and hope you can return next year (even if your pictures make me look somewhat overweight! :biglaugh: )
No chocoate donut jokes, Dave.
Mel, if you ask Allan nicely I'm sure he can photoshop those pics of you. The one with the wooly hat is a keeper! Kinda looks like Papa smurf goes huntin. Then again that one of me in the chair kinda looks like I drink Red Bull for breakfast/lunch/dinner so I won't comment on ya donuts bud!
Sorry Mel must have pushed the wrong button here are the original photos
http://www.mesarvresort.us/files/images/mal1.jpg
http://www.mesarvresort.us/files/images/mal2.jpg
That exercise regime is sure paying off :biglaugh:
same as the wife management program:
Beat them once a week!
you don't know why
but they do!!
Mel what do you meen " somewhat overweight"Keep hitting the stairmaster bud. Dave you do drink Red Bull for breakfast lunch and dinner.Can't wait to share a camp with you guys again soon. Looks like a great timewas had by all.
Not true, I only drink that crap when I gotta drive across America. It tastes awfull but it does pick ya up if your runin outa fuel. Hope to see you again soon John. Maybe Compton??
Sorry Mel, I'll take back what I said about photo shop. Doesn't look like it helped any :saywhat:
Seems things were fast and furious this year guys. Looks like a ton of fun. Great pics too.