Tag: NY
NYSDEC Flips The Bird To The Traditional Fall Turkey Hunter
To those that follow all things related to wild turkeys in New York, you may well know that fall season is a very different one here in the great state of New York. To those not entirely up to speed on what has changed, the generously long season in recent times use to run from October 1st up until the Friday before southern tier gun season for deer. Roughly 6-1/2 weeks in the central part of the state. Northern NY just two weeks, and the western part of the state would not start until mid-October. Long Island has had a season for only a few years now and runs into December.
That has all changed now with Northern NY having changed the least. The NYSDEC has come up with a staggered two week season that varies across the state. A one bird limit has also been implemented. How it has been implemented, and combined with changes in recent years forms my opinion that the NYSDEC has as much as given the middle finger to the traditional fall turkey hunter, turkey dogger (those of us that use turkey dogs to bust them up in the fall.)
Before I go further I do agree that changes needed to be made. It is reasonable to conclude in my point of view that the wild turkey numbers are down. Compared to population peaks in the mid to late 90’s they are drastically down. Historically, going back to 70’s, and 80’s and even further back one can make several arguments. Sightings now vary greatly across the state from those that I hear from, and in my travels. There are many questions about the natural holding capacity of suitable habitat. Many hunters are blaming fishers and coyotes, and yes, they are efficient predators, but not taking out entire flocks. It is hard to compete with Mother Nature, especially with the string of wet, cold springs we have over the past 5-6 years. Last two springs have not been as bad. Nesting success has been spotty at best, and likely the culprit or the lion’s share of the decline. I have been told over the years that for every legally tagged turkey there is likely two more that are not. Not exactly a great way to keep track of what’s what when managing seasons. I blame poachers for this, not dedicated and ethical turkey hunters. Exceptions noted… While my further comments are very critical in what the NYSDEC has done, it is proper to acknowledge that it is not such an easy thing to manage nor black and white in the decisions to be made.
In the CNY region up until several years ago, the traditional fall turkey hunter could pursue their favored pastime for two weeks without risking disturbing bow hunters looking to arrow a whitetail. Perfect time to bust flocks with a turkey dog. Those two weeks are compromised giving the bow hunters another two weeks of early season. Many land owners and bow hunters are ok with fall turkey season until bow season opens up. Thumbs down against the NYSDEC for doing this. The one bird limit makes sense, and is an expected variable when tasked to manage the flocks. It is obvious to those of us immersed into fall turkey hunting that much of our inputs fell on the ears of those that had already made up their minds. Basically going through the motions and the final decisions were based more on other groups interests or other’s perception of hunter satisfaction. Fall turkey hunters seem to have fallen off of that list. It is thought that a significant percentage of the fall take occurs from incidental opportunities from bow hunters while on a deer watch. One could see how that might be kept as a hunter satisfaction perspective, namely that of a bow hunter. I started out bow hunting for deer, and can understand the idea. However in the quest to tightly reducing and controlling the fall take, prohibiting the taking of fall turkeys from a tree stand would certainly impact the harvest numbers. I highly doubt archery organizations would allow that to go unanswered without a lot of backlash. One can argue the virtues of incidental hunting vs those that put on a turkey vest and go afield to participate in the age old tradition of fall turkey hunting. Instead of reducing the season to a staggered two weeks in a given region why not make it gobbler or bearded turkeys only, and that would have a huge impact in reducing the fall take.
It is baffling why the NYSDEC has done a bang-up job of ignoring the hunter satisfaction aspect of the dedicated fall turkey hunter, turkey dogger. Even though the fall season at one time was “The Season” it is now the spring season that captures most of everyone’s attention. In just a few short years the NYSDEC choices made to reduce harvest take numbers has negatively impacted much of a fall turkey hunters time afield to enjoy the great turkey woods in NY. In light of this observation, I assert they could have made better choices and served the great past time of the traditional fall turkey hunter, turkey dogger in a much better fashion.
© 2015 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
A Grand Spring Safari Weekend @ 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel -Clayton, NY
The New York State Outdoor Writers Association held its annual Spring Safari this past May in Clayton, NY. Our base camp would be the newly built 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel located along the St. Lawrence River front in town. Our small army of hunters and fishermen descended on the town the second weekend of May, 7th-10th. Located in Jefferson County, the safari would take us to some of the most picturesque and breathtaking scenery in our great state. With abundant resources at hand there would be plenty of diverse activities and pursuits for us to enjoy. Before going on to the events of a Grande safari weekend, it was abundantly clear that the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce & 1000 Islands International Tourism Council, Otis Technology, and Lucky Star Ranch went out of their way to welcome us, roll out the red carpet, and give a firsthand experience of the best there is to offer of their slice of paradise. A paradise it is. There are so many more to thank as I further describe the event.
My family (both my mother’s and father’s) hail from Alexandria Bay. I spent many summers there as well as many other times of the year. I have so many fond memories from my youthful days in the Bay, out along the river, even rainy days spent listening to my father and grandfather tell stories over many cups of coffee at the local diner when we didn’t go fishing. My grandfather “Booty Joyner” operated the bait shops at the village docks and was a character in his own right. For me there is a strong bond to the area. One would think that the novelty would wear off with such familiarity. Just the opposite, I was excited and anticipated the trip up to my old stomping grounds.
A reception was held at the hotel on Thursday evening. These gatherings are more of a family event as many of us are accompanied by their spouses, and many of the friendships extend back several decades if not more. I personally enjoyed the house wines, and they were a great sampling of the great wines produced here in NY. The hotel took it upon themselves to make sure us turkey hunters had a meal to take with us for an early breakfast. Although breakfast is my main, most favored meal I rarely indulge in the middle of turkey chasing wars know as spring season. I can be easily talked into a stop at the local diner during the morning lull. The hotel and its staff attention to the little niceties and details would be apparent throughout our stay there. Very nice rooms, and a touch of elegance adds to the luxury feel of the place. We thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of their well trained staff.
We were left to our own debauchery that evening and with that, a few of us derelict hunters went out upon the town. We settled on a light meal of gourmet pizza and freshly brewed craft beer at Wood Boat Brewery a few blocks walk from the hotel. We polished off two tasty pizzas, and the freshly brewed beer was a fine example of craft beer excellence we have here in NY. To add to the experience of a bunch of crusty old turkey chasers we had a great waitress, above and beyond in service, friendly, was quick to show us pics from her successful turkey hunting trip the previous weekend. We left her a very nice tip!
The first full day of the safari had plenty of activities for everyone. Ed Noonan, Dan Ladd, and myself would be hosted by Lucky Star ranch for a morning of chasing gobblers. Myrle Bauer-Net Result Charters, Rich Clarke-Signman Charters, Keith Dasno, Gotta Have it Fishing, 1000 Islands Fishing Charters would be taking out the fishermen of our group over the next two days. For spouses and those of us that were not hunting or fishing there would be a variety of activities while we were out chasing gobblers. A big thank you goes out to Antique Boat Museum, Boldt Castle, Clayton Island Tours, Coyote Moon Winery, Gold Cup Farms River Rat Cheese, Thousand Islands Winery, and White Water Challengers Rafting. A good time to be had by all.
First morning we were met at the ranch by Jody Garrett, Don Patchen and Mike Haferty. Jody and Doreen Garrett (founder of Otis Technology) owners of Lucky Star Ranch gave us the good guy treatment during our visit there and made us all feel very welcome. We were in the company of very warm and genuinely nice people. Certainly my pleasure. With daylight soon approaching, Ed would head out with Don, Dan would pair up with Jody, and I would head out to the far end of the pond with Mike. With all of us being able to call up a gobbler, having duo calling pairs spelled trouble for a few birds that morning. With 2000 acres to roam, we had access to multiple roost sites, and strategic places to start. The ranch has a diverse mix of ponds, woodlots, fields, transition zones, quality managed forests. Ideal habitat for all kinds of wildlife and waterfowl. During our hunt I would spot several whitetails and red stag, but they were wary, and not about to put up with us being there. Gobbling started out slowly at day break, but quickly turned on once they came off their roost. We had toms gobbling on three sides of us, and my gun was up more than a few times. After making several moves, we nearly got caught moving the third time. With a hasty setup, two gobblers marched on in, only one left! Less than an hour later Ed’s gun would roar, and another gobbler would ride back in the truck.
After we had set out that morning to chase gobblers, a few members enjoyed fishing the ponds at Lucky Star Ranch. Reports were the fishing was very productive that morning. At noon we enjoyed a great lunch sponsored by 1000 Islands International Tourism Council, Lucky Star Ranch, Otis technologies. After lunch we had a breakout session with event sponsors, and a great presentation by Doreen and Jody on what they had going on at the ranch, and the activities they do to give back to wounded warrior programs and youth involvement. The ranch has hands on wildlife and habitat management programs in place, and it is very impressive.
Friday evening we were treated to a tour and outdoor barbeque at the Antique Boat Museum. If you are at all into boats it is a must see place to visit. Again, great food, as we hunt hard, eat, sleep, and repeat. 1000 Islands Winery had their wines to sample as well. A little side note, NY has caught on in a big way with our great wineries, and craft brewers and distillers. If you enjoy wine, beer, or distilled spirits, the Northern NY region is a great destination. After dinner I stopped by Coyote Moon to sample their current wines. After selecting a favorite, I bought a glass and enjoyed some live music before heading back to the hotel. A notable feature to enjoy at the hotel is the open patio that faces the great Saint Lawrence. With plenty of seating, patio bar, and scenic views, it was a popular meeting place during our stay. I met up with the folks from Wight-Ox Enterprises / Rush TV and stayed up entirely too late talking shop.
Saturday Morning we had an entourage of eleven hunters that was hosted by Grindstone Island Hunting Guide Service. We were all excited about the boat trip over to Grindstone Island to chase gobblers. I had lots of action early on, right up until a coyote decided to make a go at the two gobblers and two hens I was working my contrived plan of attack on. Dan Ladd connect on a good bird about an hour later, and I surmised it had been one of the gobblers as he had run off with the two hens in Dan’s direction. I headed over and helped him get some great pictures with the gobbler. We took our time getting back to the pickup spot. A leisurely walk it was. I think the whole group enjoyed the boat trip back and as much as we did hours earlier. We got a number of looks walking back through town back to the hotel all dressed in camo, and carrying shotguns.
We were treated to a luncheon sponsored by Wight-Ox Enterprises & Rush TV and FishNY & Lake Ontario Outdoors. Later that evening a great dinner put on by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Both functions show cased the hotel kitchen, and would be worth the trip alone. Again, the hotel and its staff were above and beyond in accommodating us, and of course excellent service.
In Sunday we got to decompress, and enjoy a wonderful breakfast before our general meeting. As mentioned, breakfast is my best meal of the day. A Greek omelet was my menu choice that morning. When I return for another visit, it will be my choice again! A trip is well worth it for a Sunday brunch.
A big congrats to Allen Benas for spear heading this, and speaking for all of us from NYSOWA. We commend the 1000 Islands International Tourism Council & Clayton Chamber, 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, Lucky Star Ranch, sponsors, vendors, the storefronts, guides that worked together as a team, in concert to put on a tremendous weekend long event. You meant to impress and you indeed accomplish that!
© 2015 Joyner Outdoor Media
Related Links
NYSOWA
Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce
1000 Islands International Tourism Council
1000 Islands Harbor Hotel
Otis Technology
Lucky Star Ranch
Wight-Ox Enterprises & Rush TV
FishNY & Lake Ontario Outdoors
National Shooting Sports Foundation
Antique Boat Museum
Boldt Castle
Clayton Island Tours
Coyote Moon Winery
Gold Cup Farms River Rat Cheese
Thousand Islands Winery
Wood Boat Brewery
White Water Challengers Rafting
Myrle Bauer, Net Result Charters
Grindstone Island Hunting Guide Service
Rich Clarke, Signman Charters
Keith Dasno, Gotta Have it Fishing
Press Release: Wild Turkey Hunting Seminar, Youth Calling Contest @ Groton High School Auditorium April 17th, 7:00 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 15, 2015
Wild Turkey Hunting Seminar, Youth Calling Contest @ Groton High School Auditorium April 17th, 7:00 PM
Cortland, NEW YORK – Joyner Outdoor Media announces a wild turkey spring hunting seminar, and youth calling contest to benefit Groton High School Base Ball Program
A wild turkey event is scheduled for Friday evening, April 17th. 7:00 PM at the Groton High School Auditorium, located at: 400 Peru Rd, Groton, NY 13073. The seminar “Turkey Hunting-Advancing Your Hunting Experience” will be presented by: Mike Joyner, and Paul Walling. Mike is a Past NWTF NYS Chapter President, former national Pro-staff for Hevi-Shot, outdoor writer/author of three turkey hunting story books, as well as three current works in progress. Paul is a turkey call maker, and also an author of the scheduled 2015 book release: Father & Son- A Life’s Journey Together in the Turkey Woods. Both Mike and Paul are well seasoned turkey hunters that will share their experiences and lessons learned in the great turkey woods during the seminar. The seminar will be followed by a youth wild turkey calling contest. There will be a 12-15 youth division, and a 16-18 youth old division. Trophies to be awarded in each division. Calls required to performed at the contest TBA
Pre-sale tickets are available in advance for $3.00, and will be $5.00 at the door. All admission proceeds to benefit the Groton High School Baseball Program. Books and turkey mouth calls will be available at the event. $5.00 from each book, $1.00 from each call purchased will be donated to the baseball program.
For more event info, updates, tickets and contact information, go to: www.facebook.com/joyneroutdoormedia www.facebook.com/events/1575823519322305
About Mike Joyner:
An avid turkey hunter for nearly a quarter century, Mike Joyner has been roaming the hills and woodlands of America stalking the elusive prey -wild turkey. Joyner is a former president of the New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, serving from 1996 to 2005
A new book: D.D. Adams, Evolutionary Turkey Call Pioneer, is set to be released later this year. Mike is currently working on collaboration with Paul Walling entitled: Father and Son- A Life’s Journey Together in the Turkey Woods, and a 6th book entitled: Empire State Limb Hangers, New York Wild Turkey Records.
The author is also an owner of a technology company, and appears on dozens of US and Worldwide patents for video/image sensor innovations. He spends his quality time in his turkey woods sanctuary known as the “J” Ranch in McGraw, New York, where he lives with his wife Lee. For more information on the author visit his personal website: www.mikejoyner.com
About Paul Walling:
For nearly four decades, Paul Walling has been trekking through the hills and woodlands of Cortland County, and many other locals in New York State pursing the majestic Wild Turkey. Paul is a lifelong resident of Cortland.
Walling is also a passionate deer hunter and trout fisherman, and spends many days afield and along the banks of New York’s pristine trout streams. Walling spends many days afield with extended family and friends in and around the great woods, fields and streams of the county since childhood.
Paul is also the founder of Walling Legacy Calls specializing in mouth diaphragm turkey callers as well as friction calls. Along with his call making he is currently working on the final chapters in collaboration with fellow author Mike Joyner for his first book titled: Father & Son- A Life’s Journey Together in the Turkey Woods, scheduled for 2015 fall/winter release.
About Joyner Outdoor Media:
Joyner Outdoor Media was established in 2006 by author Mike Joyner. The company publishes outdoor & hunting themed works, outdoor blogs, in addition to marketing campaigns, event scheduling etc. Joyner Outdoor Media also provides author services including cover design, content formatting, publishing, press release service, website design, and marketing materials.
Located in the hills above the seven valleys of Cortland County, NY, Joyner Outdoor Media operates from a wonderful log home situated in prime turkey woods providing much inspiration. For more information visit: www.joyneroutdoormedia.com
Mike Joyner’s “Heads Will Roll™” 2015 Book Signing Tour
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 15, 2015
Mike Joyner’s “Heads Will Roll™” 2015 Book Signing Tour
Joyner Outdoor Media Announces Book Signing Events and Show Appearances
Cortland, NEW YORK – Joyner Outdoor Media Announces Book Signing Events and Show Appearances
Cortland author, Mike Joyner will kick off his “Heads Will Roll™” 2015 book signing tour on January 16 through 18 at the New York Sportsman’s Show @ The Oncenter, Syracuse, NY. Mike will be conducting seminars: “Turkey Hunting Novice: Advancing Your Hunting Experience” Saturday @ 2PM @ 5PM, Sunday @4 PM
http://www.newyorksportsmenshow.com
New York Sportsman’s Expo @ NYS Fair Grounds January 23- 25, 2015, The author will be appearing at the New York Outdoor Writers Association (NYSOWA) Booth.
http://www.newyorksportsmansexpo.com/
National Capital Sportsman Show @ Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center, Fredericksburg, Virginia January 30- February 1, 2015. Booth #848. Mike will be conducting seminars: Saturday @ TBA, Sunday @ TBA
WNY Sport and Travel Expo @ Fairgrounds Event Center, Hamburg NY March 5-8, 2015, Booth TBA
http://www.eriepromotions.com/Sport/Wny/default.aspx
At each of the shows, the author will have paperback and hardcover editions of the new book “Grand Days in the Turkey Woods,” matching call sets, as well as copies of his first two books “Hills of Truxton” and “Tales from the Turkey Woods” on hand. The author will be personally signing his books at each of the events. The author also encourages those that purchased editions online and would like to have them signed, to stop by the booth.
More events and appearances are anticipated this spring and through the summer. The anticipated release of the upcoming biography of the late call make D.D. Adams will be supported with a continuance of book signing events as the tour is expected to continue in to 2016, possibly 2017 dependent on two additional titles being released by the author. Tour events and updates and will be listed on the website as well as on facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mike-Joyner-Joyner-Outdoor-Media/141325565878890?ref=bookmarks
About the Author:
An avid turkey hunter for nearly a quarter century, Mike Joyner has been roaming the hills and woodlands of America stalking the elusive prey -wild turkey. Joyner is a former president of the New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, serving from 1996 to 2005
A new book: D.D. Adams, Evolutionary Turkey Call Pioneer, is set to be released later this year. Mike is currently working on a 5th book entitled: Empire State Limb Hangers, New York Wild Turkey Records.
The author is also an owner of a technology company and appears on dozens of US and Worldwide patents for video/image sensor innovations. He spends his quality time in his turkey woods sanctuary known as the “J” Ranch in McGraw, New York, where he lives with his wife Lee. For more information on the author visit his personal website: www.mikejoyner.com
About Joyner Outdoor Media:
Joyner Outdoor Media was established in 2006 by author Mike Joyner. The company publishes outdoor & hunting themed works, outdoor blogs, in addition to marketing campaigns, event scheduling etc. Joyner Outdoor Media also provides author services including cover design, content formatting, publishing, press release service, website design, and marketing materials.
Located in the hills above the seven valleys of Cortland County, NY, Joyner Outdoor Media operates from a wonderful log home situated in prime turkey woods providing much inspiration. For more information visit: www.joyneroutdoormedia.com
http://joyneroutdoormedia.com/Joyner_PR011415.pdf
Joyner Outdoor Media
5239 Town Line Rd.
McGraw, New York 13101
Press Release- Grand Days in the Turkey Woods of Cortland
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 19, 2014
Grand Days in the Turkey Woods of Cortland
Joyner Outdoor Media Proudly Announces the Publication of Grand Days in the Turkey Woods, By Mike Joyner
Cortland, NEW YORK – Joyner Outdoor Media announces the publication of Grand Days In The Turkey Woods, by Mike Joyner
Book release event and book signing is scheduled for September 10th 2014, at the Cortland Beer Company from 5PM to 8PM. Hard and soft cover books will be available for sale and signing. Copies of his prior works will also be available at the event. There will be a reveal and tastings of ‘Fall Gobbler Ale’ custom brew by Cortland Beer courtesy of Joyner Outdoor Media.
In his third book, Grand Days in the Turkey Woods, acclaimed nature author and outdoorsman Mike Joyner continues on his journey in pursuit of the wild turkey. From preparation to the hunt, Joyner shares a first-hand account of each adventure in the turkey woods. Each chapter weaves personal experiences with tips and strategies for a successful hunt. Grand Days in the Turkey Woods will appeal to both the novice and experienced game hunter. A veteran hunter, Joyner brings the trials, tribulations, challenges, excitement, and thrill of each hunt as he travels America in search of the elusive prey. Each memorable hunt is documented with photographs and vivid descriptions, making this a must-read for those who love to hunt these magnificent birds.
About Joyner Outdoor Media:
Joyner Outdoor Media was established in 2006 by author Mike Joyner. The company publishes outdoor & hunting themed works, outdoor blogs, in addition to marketing campaigns, event scheduling etc. Joyner Outdoor Media also provides author services including cover design, content formatting, publishing, press release service, website design, and marketing materials.
Located in the hills above the seven valleys of Cortland County, NY, Joyner Outdoor Media operates from a wonderful log home situated in prime turkey woods providing much inspiration. For more information visit: www.joyneroutdoormedia.com
About Cortland Beer Company, LLC
Established in 2010, Cortland Beer Company, LLC is a farm based microbrewery located in downtown Cortland, New York. The renowned award winning craft beer brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers. The Cortland Beer Company has an onsite tasting room serving 15 different beers. They also offer seasonal outdoor seating, live music, special beer offerings and apparel in a friendly bright atmosphere. Bottles and growlers of beer available for purchase onsite. Local eateries also offer food delivery to your seat. Located at 16 Court St, Cortland, New York 13045, their location is easily accessible via Routes 81 & 13. For more information visit: www.cortlandbeer.com
About the Author:
An avid turkey hunter for nearly a quarter century, Mike Joyner has been roaming the hills and woodlands of America stalking the elusive prey -wild turkey. Joyner is a former president of the New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, serving from 1996 to 2005
A new book: D.D. Adams, Evolutionary Turkey Call Pioneer, is set to be released later this year. Mike is currently working on a 5th book entitled: Empire State Limb Hangers, New York Wild Turkey Records.
The author is also an owner of a technology company, and appears on dozens of US and Worldwide patents for video/image sensor innovations. He spends his quality time in his turkey woods sanctuary known as the “J” Ranch in McGraw, New York, where he lives with his wife Lee. For more information on the author visit his personal website: www.mikejoyner.com
http://joyneroutdoormedia.com/Joyner_PR081914.pdf
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Press Release- Wild Turkey Adventures In Cortland; Release date and book release party for: Grand Days In The Turkey Woods
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 2, 2014
Wild Turkey Adventures In Cortland
Joyner Outdoor Media proudly announces the publication release date and book release party for: Grand Days In The Turkey Woods, by Mike Joyner
Cortland, NEW YORK – Joyner Outdoor Media announces the release date for: Grand Days In The Turkey Woods, by Mike Joyner
Book release date is scheduled for September 10th 2014, with a book release event to take place at the Cortland Beer Company from 5PM to 8PM. Hard and soft cover books we be available for sale and signing. There will be a reveal and tastings of ‘Fall Gobbler Ale’ custom brew by Cortland Beer courtesy of Joyner Outdoor Media as well as a few other special surprises from local merchants.
From the author of Hills of Truxton: Stories and Travels of a Turkey Hunter and Tales from the Turkey Woods: Mornings of My Better Days, comes a heartfelt inspired collection of memorable days afield and time spent hunting the great hard wood ridges, and turkey woods of Cortland County, NY, and in Ohio, Texas, and Vermont.
“Each of these experiences from the awakening in the turkey woods at daybreak, to the thrill of the chase, and those moments of reflection during the long walks back to the truck come together as my “Grand Days in the Turkey Woods”—Mike Joyner
About Joyner Outdoor Media:
Joyner Outdoor Media was established in 2006 by author Mike Joyner. The company publishes outdoor & hunting themed works, outdoor blogs, in addition to marketing campaigns, event scheduling etc. Joyner Outdoor Media also provides author services including cover design, content formatting, publishing, press release service, website design, and marketing materials.
Located in the hills above the seven valleys of Cortland County, NY, Joyner Outdoor Media operates from a wonderful log home situated in prime turkey woods providing much inspiration. For more information visit: www.joyneroutdoormedia.com
About Cortland Beer Company, LLC
Established in 2010, Cortland Beer Company, LLC is a farm based microbrewery located in downtown Cortland, New York. The renowned award winning craft beer brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers. The Cortland Beer Company has an onsite tasting room serving 15 different beers. They also offer seasonal outdoor seating, live music, special beer offerings and apparel in a friendly bright atmosphere. Bottles and growlers of beer available for purchase onsite. Local eateries also offer food delivery to your seat. Located at 16 Court St, Cortland, New York 13045, their location is easily accessible via Routes 81 & 13. For more information visit: www.cortlandbeer.com
About the Author:
An avid turkey hunter for nearly a quarter century, Mike Joyner has been roaming the hills and woodlands of America stalking the elusive prey -wild turkey. Joyner is a former president of the New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, serving from 1996 to 2005
A new book: D.D. Adams, Evolutionary Turkey Call Pioneer, is set to be released later this year. Mike is currently working on a 5th book entitled: Empire State Limb Hangers, New York Wild Turkey Records.
The author is also an owner of a technology company, and appears on dozens of US and Worldwide patents for video/image sensor innovations. He spends his quality time in his turkey woods sanctuary known as the “J” Ranch in McGraw, New York, where he lives with his wife Lee. For more information on the author visit his personal website: www.mikejoyner.com
Poacher / Trespasser -the alternate path to “Gates of Forever Roost”
My My how things quickly change……………
To be honest I was elated with yesterday’s hunt, and had one of those “I’m where I’m suppose to be, and all is ok in my world” type of days. This morning started out much the same, it is the late morning portion of today’s hunt that is the subject of this post. As you’ll read further it will quickly become a holier than thou rant. I am giving fair warning that I am climbing up on a big ol’ soap box, and I’ve got some things to say.
To preface this wonderful occurrence, I have to omit names of certain friends and families and the location of property in question. I am a guest on the property and the family we are good friends with are the only ones with permission to hunt it. Located somewhere 30 minutes north and east of our home in East Homer New York, it is a huge farm with lots of wild game, great land features, and one that I have had the privilege to step foot on. Todays hunt would start out on different properties and would yield little to go on as high winds made it difficult to hear anything on the roost. The young gentlemen that I hunted with had to head off to school, so I opted to hunt an upper portion of the property and set up in a location where birds had been seen loitering in previous days. I am not much for field hunting as most of my gobblers are dealt with in patches of woods or my favored ridges. Given that the woods are still very open,and high winds, I settled on a corner of a long field where several trails come in and out, and was a likely funnel for birds drifting through the area. From 8am until the end of the morning I would catch a gobble here and there in between wind gusts. Not sure where, but glad to hear them just the same.
Somewhere around 9:30-10AM I notice a recent year Black Chevy pickup stopping along the road and was obviously surveying the property I was on. I am certain my two decoys were spotted as they parked directly above me for a good 12-15minutes, whereas they would spend 8-10 minutes at the most working their way up the road. As the morning was creeping toward the end and well after 11AM, I notice two gobblers with visible swinging beards coming in hard and fast to my hard left. My guess would be 150+ yards out. Not sure if they came across the road or along the woods I was in, and swung high to gain a vantage point. I had heard gobbles behind me and to my left. As they closed to within 100-120 yards and almost as far from the wood line, BOOM!!!!! Yeah it rocked my world and how. The shot was withing 60-80 yards from where I was sitting. It was apparent that a trespasser had snuck in, knew where I was, and proceeded to cut me off in order to grab a bird. No idea how the trespasser figure they could beat me to the bird, and evade me, and not become the main participent to a hugh impending asswhooping I would be more than willing to dish out. I got up,and was yelling some words I’ll not repeat here. I did yell “I’m a hunter” in there somewhere in the profanity and ran to about where I thought the shot came from. The woods roll up and over,and apparently whoever it was, decided to leave quicker than they snuck in. Being a distance runner, I would have made good on catching them if I could have seen the direction they took. At the shot, both gobblers ran down the hill, passing me roughly 60 yards out, and doing their best rendition of the FTD man at top speed. Neither bird appeared injured or molested. I thought it odd that they hadn’t taken flight. I guess they thought the deeks might run along with them. I found myself shaking from being that upset and angry at what took place. The time and effort to play out a strategy, and patiently work the setup to its conclusion to be disrupted from unethical and unsafe decisions by those I would call and accuse of being poachers.
Not getting a bird that was so close is not really a big deal, it happens due to so many other valid things such as hens coming in, predators, farm equipment, making the wrong call, and or making a poorly timed movement. From my perspective of filling tags year after year, it is not a huge deal. Go back at it again the next day. What has me more than upset is that between us was an old logging road that the gobblers could have turned into had they decided to circle the decoys first. Not my first choice, but I have seen them do it in the past. Had that occurred, I would have been pointing a loaded firearm at a camouflaged hunter whom had snuck in, and that I was not aware of. The likelihood of picking them out in my foreground or background of my sight picture would be non existent. I could also have been the recipient of the same gun pointing, except I believe whomever it was, knew my position. The possibilities for a worse than bad day were through the roof when this person decided that property rights don’t matter, ethics don’t matter,and fundamentally, my safety or theirs did not matter. All this for a damn bird. Same goes for deer, elk, whatever your animal of choice is. As much as I love turkey hunting, and deer hunting, I would be mortified to be branded as a trespasser or for violating a pile of game laws, much less shooting someone. I have yet to see how the taking of any game species could be worth making such terrible choices while afield.
One of the very discussions I had with the two young hunters with me this morning, was that when I look at a set of spurs, a taxidermy mount or maybe a tail fan display, I want to remember the epic quality of the hunt, the things I sensed and experienced while in pursuit. I cannot wrap my brain around on slamming a trophy animal by shooting it out a truck window, or trespassing when I think no one is around, or some other unethical act. I view each animal I take as one of god’s creatures that provides me with the emotional aspects of the hunt, and table fare that my wife and I enjoy immensely. It is a matter of respect to hunt ethically and fairly. As a hunter we owe it to ourselves, the animals we pursue and to our fellow hunters as well. To the individual that did what they did today, you are not a hunter, you are not a sportsman. If anything your actions reflect a very negative light upon our sport, and as a fellow human being.
I know my wife will not be happy reading any of this, and I can say very little about it. I am grateful that the rash of terrible choices made by this person did not end up far worse, and for that matter it might have been best they evaded me in their hasty exit, otherwise I might be blogging this from jail. Blessings even in awful stories such as this one.
Thank you for enduring my rant and a less than positive post. I normally want to keep things on the bright side, but that is not the case today.
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Gates of Forever Roost
While back at my office this afternoon working on building a successful technology company, I sometimes get a few moments to ponder things not so tech related. Setting up a computer or crunching design rule checks on a sensor or pcb layout, there are periods of waiting for the computer to do the tasks that it does best.
The morning routine today which happens to be mid war spring turkey season was a bit different. With the big storm that blew in last night, and out early morning I got to enjoy three luxurious hours of extra sleep. With no success the prior evening in roosting gobblers, I would opt to start the hunt mid-morning, and hoped that the later arrival in the turkey woods would coincide with the birds coming around and shaking off a bad night and of course start gobbling in earnest.
I would hook up with a long time hunting partner and go about the business of filling another New York spring season tag. We got in the woods before 9AM and the day had blossomed into a beautiful sunny day. As always we would chat about many things including recent events and what might be chewing at the back of our minds from time to time.
With my recent loss of my mother in-law in her battle with cancer, that conversation would be part of a slow progress along a big ridge. We would talk about who would handle our affairs when our time came, what was important to pass on and to whom. I would jokingly remark (in ways maybe more serious) that I would look out for him and his affairs but I would be teed off if he didn’t send at least another 100 gobblers to the “Gates of Forever Roost” before heading off to his own special place. Yes, even as mighty hunters we are painfully aware of our own fragile nature and mortality. That may come as a surprise to those who view us in a negative light for our love and passion of hunting.
In our quest each season, and as much as we love our great pastime, in practical terms, it’s about harvesting gobblers. From the bird’s point of view, not likely to be a favorable one. It is however our personal bond with the natural world that we come to appreciate it the way we do, and understand in a very deep and emotional way the cycle of things such as life and death. It is a perspective not gained by way of buying meat in a wrapped package at the grocery store.
One can be self-aware-close to their human existence, share the things that make us lifelong friends, and companions doing any number of favorite pastimes, activities. I would not claim what we do is better. For many of us, it is. I would submit to you, that despite the over the top marketing of hunting products, our sport of turkey hunting is not one of blood lust, or testosterone filled fantasies. It is in many ways closer to nature, and akin to the creations around us. As an outdoor writer I strive to bring my view of the turkey woods to print in such a way that you see as I do. I will flatly claim that I barely manage to bring a fraction of all the things I observe of my time in the turkey woods. In my quest to convey what I so love about turkey hunting, I can sometimes put you in the tree next to me, or at least cause you to remember a similar experience. In that I am sometimes successful, and will continue to hone my craft.
Today’s hunt was as relaxing as any meditation class one might take, and was as peaceful as my soul required today. We would hear gobbling untill almost noon, but they had plans other than granting ours. It was a morning of great friendship, great discussion of most serious matters, and as good a hunt that I had in recent memory.
I wish all of you days in the great turkey woods like the one I had today.
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Old Memories, New Memories- Good Times: 2014 New York Spring Turkey Youth Hunt
What started out as a plan ‘B’ turned out to be a memorable hunt for a very nice young man and two of us old well seasoned hunters. It would be memorable for a host of reasons which I’ll explain further.
Since the inception of the New York Spring Youth Turkey Hunt, there have been plenty of memories made, and lots of pictures of young adults with smiling faces. For my hunting partner Paul Walling and I this has been our experience, and something we look forward to. Although my children were grown adults before the inception of the special youth season, I would take out a young hunter as the opportunities presented themselves. Like many of you, we would take out young hunters in regular season as well.
For this particular hunt, Paul and I would be taking Keller Pai out for this morning’s hunt. Keller has taken several gobblers in prior hunts, and has a few seasons under his belt. As much as Paul and I enjoy each other’s company while hunting, we would agree that taking out a young hunter is the highlight of the season. Paul grew up learning how to hunt while taught by his father, and that is something I appreciate very much as I did not hunt until my mid 20″s. My father was an Adirondack deer hunter, but gave that up after joining the Navy. The experience for us to take out Keller is especially rewarding as the morning would be full of lessons of the turkey woods, and recounting of past experiences of our escapades and that of Paul and his father.
Our plan ‘A’ for the morning was to visit one of our favorite haunts that we affectionately call “Shorties.” There is a lengthy story behind the name, and technically there are two possibly three separate stories depending how one parses it. A chapter in my first book “Hills of Truxton” was dedicated to this “special” gobbler and so named. Disclosing the exact location is of course misleading on purpose but I can tell you that it is a piece of state game lands south of Cortland, or was that northeast of Truxton? I arrived ahead of Paul and Keller at 5:16AM, only to find another truck parked there, and they had already headed in. As good as the place is, we very seldom run into other hunters there. I let Paul know that we needed to go elsewhere as we would not intrude on purpose, and would give them the courtesy that is due. We would regroup and try our luck at another favored spot a little more than a mile from where we were. We would find our plan “B” choice to be unencumbered, and appeared to had little vehicle traffic nor any one parking there recently. As a side note, we saw no other vehicles parked at the side of the road or at trail heads the remainder of the morning. In some respects the 2nd location and the logging trail along the bottom of a hill would provide an area shielded from the predominate wind that morning, allowing us to hear a ways off. Rain had tapered off long before daylight, although cool temps greeted us, it was much more comfortable being out of the wind. The morning would remained overcast and cloudy, no bright sunny day to warm things up today. A base layer, and light hunting jacket would suffice.
We would slowly work our way into the woods as the regrouping had us going in as the sky began to change and was getting light out. Paul knew the traditional roosting areas very well,and we could cover some ground without disrupting the birds as they waited to fly down. We quickly called up an owl, which did elicit a gobble from parts unknown in distance and only a general direction. The owl favored Paul’s rendition of an owl more so this morning, and would occasionally answer my efforts. Paul and I learned long ago, that with two callers, favored responses will switch back and forth over the course of the morning. It mattered little, as long as we got a response. For the first 30 minutes we would occasionally hear a gobbler, not at all close but in a direction that we figured to be where Plan “A’ would have taken place. I personally thought we would hear a shot come from there. Something that we never heard during our time there this morning. A slow start to be sure.
We eventually got out to a spot that overlooked a large drop off along the state land border. A few calls got a round house of gobbling and hen talk from a flock we figured to be a good quarter mile or further down the bottom of the overlook on private property. We sat down and decided to see what if anything the flock would do. By auditory appearances my guess would be several mature gobblers, a few jakes and at least a hen or two willing to talk. Most likely more hens than what we would like. They would gobble at any call we made, so we decided to wait a bit, and see if their feet were moving or just their beaks. Probably less than ten minutes, I did a short sequence on a mouth call that Paul makes for me, and got an immediate response, not more than a few hundred yards below us. We got an answer we were happy about. Wasting no time I moved back and over some from Paul and Keller. A few calls later the gobbles in response to our calls ceased and I figure either they were coming or working out the steep bank. After making a call with no response, I decided to hold off and see what they do. Paul and I read each other’s next moves pretty well, and when he called shortly after I had stopped it surprised me, even more so, the call was a very soft first yelp and finished just as soft. That is when I notice Keller’s shoulders tighten up. The game was on and target was in sight. The gun came up, and a moment later it roared. I was far enough back that I could not see the approaching bird.
We all got up, with Keller reaching the bird in mere seconds. It was a good sized jake, and he had wasted no time coming up the steep bank to get to us. Paul’s last call turned the bird enough to bring his path in front of them and within 30 yards. With the woods wide open which is typical for early season, it was great to not have the bird hangup 50-60-70 yards below our location. After tagging the bird and taking pictures we walked back only a little faster than we came in, listening for other gobblers as any intel is welcomed for the opener on May 1st. We did hear a few gobbles, but nothing close. Given our location, we were surprised to hear no other shotgun blasts, although Keller thought he heard one, far off and early.
Keller got a quick lesson as to how fast things can go from a gobble way over yonder to fast action with an even faster conclusion that can occur in the turkey woods. Something Paul and I have experienced many times and I would suspect that goes the same for many of you.
We concluded the hunt with a great breakfast at the local diner (location not disclosed) and then parted ways, headed for home. A short nap later that morning was most welcomed. Big congrats to Keller and a big thank you to Paul for what continues to be one of many great and memorable hunts.
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
New!! Joyner Outdoor Media website launch and contest
Launch Day! Rolling out the new Joyner Outdoor Media website! A new responsive style site. One by one the individual book sites will be updated. Current ongoing book project sites will be updated from a place holder or requests for info to full content websites as well.
We’ll be kicking the tries over next few weeks to correct any goofs or make improvements. As we grow so to will the main site. The online stores are just now up, and will be expanded shortly.
To celebrate the launch, we’ll be giving away a signed set of books “Hills of Truxton” and “Tales From The Turkey Woods” at 1000 likes, 2500 likes, 5000 likes, and 7500 likes. At 10,000 likes a lucky winner will be invited on an all expense paid hunt with author Mike Joyner and a story of the experience to be included in “Grand Days In The Turkey Woods” currently being written. The winner may choose New York, or winner’s home state, or possibly others. Winner responsible for travel to and from the event, and license. Further details on additional incentives will be forthcoming.
Winners will be pick at random, and announced on facebook. Hunt trip winner will also be announced on facebook, and the resulting story will be reviewed with the winner before publication
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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