Tag: gobbler
Jerry Antley- Legendary Call Maker Inducted In The Legends of the Outdoors National Hall of Fame
Some time ago, in fact, a little over a year I was contacted by Peyton Mckinnie hailing from Marion, Louisiana about possibly doing a story on a gentleman from his home state known by many turkey hunters as Jerry Antley. As I lay out a few known facts attributed to Jerry you will come to a similar conclusion as I, that he is a family man, man of faith, an outdoorsman with a firm dedication to his passions and his craft. Steadfast is a term that came to me while reviewing and researching materials to write this story worthy of a man of his stature.
As I briefly review a partial list of Jerry’s history and noteworthy accomplishments, he will be newly inducted into The Legends of the Outdoors National Hall of Fame, class of 2017.
A lifelong resident of Downsville, Louisiana Jerry continues to make calls at Cedar Hill Game Calls (which he founded) to this day. Although he does not publicly list his age, it is known he was married to Vicki Allen for nearly fifty four years until her passing in 2013. With four children now grown, along with nine grandchildren, and six great grandchildren it is a wonder when he has the time to make all these calls.
It is stated that he began hunting in 1963 for whitetails, and added turkey hunting to his pursuits in 1972. Nearing a hundred wild turkeys carried back home over his shoulder it is reported that the local bachelor groups of longbeards are plotting/planning for his early retirement from the sport. As you begin to notice, a pattern emerges as to his dedication to matters at hand. Jerry extended his passions for the forests of his home state, the pursuit of whitetails, wild turkeys and turned it to vibrant and healthy game call business. This would be the beginning of Cedar Hill Game Calls, LLC which he founded in 1981, He would later expand his company with the acquisition of CamoCord, LLC in 2003.
The most well known call that Jerry produces was also the first entry into the market. The Legendary “Little Scratch Box!”. They have sold over 50,000 all of which are hand-made here in the U.S.A.. Being constructed of cedar which is well known among turkey hunters and call makers alike to produce clucks, purrs, and yelps that not only please our calling sensibilities but more importantly fools a gobbler to take one step too many in your direction. With a little bit of instruction even I could have you clucking and purring before you left the room, yelping with a little bit of practice. The clucks are done the best on this cedar scratch box, more convincing than by use of other styles of calls in my opinion. You could close your eyes and swear you could hear the hen’s beak snapping shut as she clucked. Yes, it is that good in the turkey woods. The company also offers deer calls, duck calls, elk calls, predator calls. a variety of other turkey calls, and a host of hunter accessories that would be ‘must have’ for your trips afield.
Joining the NWTF in 1977, Jerry would become a charter member and served as president of the North Central Louisiana NWTF Chapter. He would later become a charter member of his local chapter , the Union Long Spurs, served as President for the first three years. Currently serving on the Board of Directors. His volunteer service has spanned so far an impressive thirty seven consecutive years. In that time Jerry would also serve as Louisiana State Chapter President, and VP, serving Louisiana State NWTF Board of Directors. for twelve years. Jerry was elected to the National Board of Directors for the NWTF in 1984 serving for six years,
Other notable history with the NWTF:
• Silver Life Member of NWTF •Runner-Up 1983 Louisiana State Turkey Calling Championship. •“Grand Champion” 1984 Louisiana State Turkey Calling Championship.
• Grand National Calling Contest Judge for NWTF the past 20 years.
Along with his call making business, and what has to be a busy time with family, Jerry is a Southern Baptist by faith, serving as a Deacon at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Downsville, La. Since 1978. In addition to his role as Deacon, he has also served as Chairman of the Deacon Board for the past twenty years.
We congratulate Jerry on a stellar career, dedicated volunteer service, and a well deserved award of recognitions for all that you have done and contributed for our natural resources and to our greater benefit.
http://www.cedarhillgamecalls.com
-MJ
© 2017 Joyner Outdoor Media
Joyner Outdoor Media, State of the Union, Book Projects
Now that spring turkey season is officially over in the northern hemisphere, I thought it was high time to update the mega fan base, facebook followers, and especial those awaiting a few titles that are long overdue. Joyner Outdoor Media (named for the obvious origins of heritage) in short form is the business umbrella that is used to publish and promote my books, blogs, writings, and occasionally other like minded authors that wish to join us.
Many projects on the back burner since the winter of 2012-2013 At the tender young age of 52, I found myself out on the street the 18th of December, making a worrisome Christmas. The company I was a founding partner in, later acquired and later sold to our VP of Sales. After a fourteen year stint, given the politics with the new owner, It was an impossibility to work together. Fate, Karma is a cruel master at times and there is a tragic story that follows. I’ll not divulge further. Only days after being put out to pasture I formed Town Line Technologies, LLC on what was a very quiet Sunday morning looking at office spaces. I had an offer for contract work for the US Navy through the old company, cashed in my 401K, no safety net, no benefits. Five years of working hard and still going. It is the primary reason why projects slowed, put on hold and accelerated my aging.
With some things freeing up, I am bringing to the fore front the existing on-going projects that I am all too happy to get back to. ‘Grand Days in the Turkey Woods’ was a bit of an unexpected event in my timeline as an author. As it is common for me to write up or at least outline memorable stories as they occur each season, I found back in 2014 that I have more than enough memories/stories stored off in a future projects file that I was able to quickly publish as a story book which is in keeping with ‘Hills of Truxton: Stories & Travels of a Turkey Hunter’, and ‘Tales from the Turkey Woods: Mornings of My Better Days’
I will update in order- books currently available, current projects, and intentions of future works which will not march full steam ahead until my current projects are out in print.
Books in print:
Hills of Truxton: Stories & Travels of a Turkey Hunter Currently available online at Amazon and other online book stores in paperback, hardcover, and kindle format. Hills Of Truxton Paperbacks and hardcovers are also available from me, signed with bookmarks and post cards tipped in. Author’s Online Store
A 2.0 version is coming with a new cover, a few updated pictures and the typical text corrections and small edits in the effort to follow in some semblance of the Queen’s English. A hardcover w/ dust cover will also follow in the 2.0 version and will mark the end of the laminated hardcover edition. Release of 2.0 will be announced later this summer
Tales from the Turkey Woods: Mornings of My Better Days Currently available online at Amazon and other online book stores in paperback, hardcover, and kindle format. Tales From The Turkey Woods Paperbacks and hardcovers are also available from me, signed with bookmarks and post cards tipped in. Author’s Online Store
A 2.0 version is also coming with a new cover, a few updated pictures and the typical text corrections and small edits as with my first title. A hardcover w/ dust cover will also follow in the 2.0 version Release of 2.0 will be announced later this fall.
Grand Days in the Turkey Woods: Currently available online at Amazon and other online book stores in paperback, hardcover, and kindle format. Grand Days In The Turkey Woods Paperbacks and hardcovers are also available from me, signed with bookmarks and post cards tipped in. Author’s Online Store
Current Book Projects:
D.D. Adams, Evolutionary Turkey Call Pioneer: For those that I have contacted or attempted to contact at the beginning of the project: I will complete interviews this summer. I have just a few very key interviews to complete so time is short as I need to commit to a writing schedule.
If you knew DD personally and have insights or a great story to share I would love to interview you for the project. I have a lot of pictures, more than enough to show a comprehensive view of his call creations.
Empire State Limb Hangers- New York Wild Turkey Records: For those that I have contacted or attempted to contact at the beginning of the project: Your stories will be available to review as I complete them.
If you haven’t been interviewed and would like to be included, please contact me, I would love to include as many as possible that met the original score criteria. The placings have shifted some, however I am still going by my original list as what was unique and noteworthy then still is of course. There will be future editions as records are broken and those I attempted to include, catch up with the project. The more hunters that come on board that I originally sought to interview, the better.
Any record book gobblers bagged in NY during the 2016-2017 spring/fall seasons? or years prior? If your bird meets the following scoring criteria, I would love to talk to you about being included in the book!
Typical score > 75.0000 (weight x1 + beard x 2 + spur(s) x 10)
Non-Typical score > 105.0000 (weight x1 + beard(s) x 2 + spur(s) x 10)
Weight > 26.5000 lbs. (verified certified weight)
Beard > 12.0000″ (verified length)
Spurs> 1.6250″ (verified length)
Future Projects: Other than some very preliminary housekeeping, outlines etc, future projects are on low priority until completion of the current Que. In all fairness to the hunters I interviewed some time ago, my efforts are focused on completing these anticipated works. There are several ideas for a scifi novel and a hunting themed novel. Very far out there, but possibility’s for a time not as hectic at the moment.
Roost ‘n Time Tales: Will be a continuation of stories as told around camp, the local diners and the back of pickup trucks parked at the gate. It is expected to take any number of years, dependent on travel plans, funds, and a 55 gallon drum of good-luck and fortune to capture another memorable collection of experiences in the great turkey woods.
Old Turkey Tree: A collection of my favorite stories from current titles and future ones. Expect additional perspectives, additional photo’s and other surprises to those following my previous works. May include other unpublished stories worthy of inclusion with such grand memories.
Forever Roost: An introspective view of why I hunt, deeper meanings and how it is much more significant in modern times as well as my later years if a full and meaningful life.
I would be remiss if I neglected to appeal to those contemplating your own works as self published or assisted publishing. If interested in engaging Joyner Outdoor Media to help your project get off the ground or hire us to work up graphics, covers for your book give me a shout at: mjoyner@joyneroutdoormedia.com
I would also encourage you to check out the New York Outdoor Writer Association or on facebook as a writing professional or inspired up and coming author.
-MJ
© 2017 Joyner Outdoor Media
Fat Lady Sings…. Hard Spring Turkey Season In New York
It all came down to the final days to get it done in New York. With a change in plans, I hunted solo the last few days of the season. The last Saturday of the season I called in a full fan Jake on public game land that would coarse yelp and strut at the calling but declined to gobble. Coming no closer than several hundred yards across a hay field, I re-positioned and twenty minutes later he decided to stop feeding long enough to walk within gun range. After hunting in the pouring rain on a morning that was predicted to be 5% chance of rain, it was a consolation to tote a turkey back to the truck. I have little faith in the weatherman or climate change experts as they cannot get it straight as to the weather on any opening day or any other day during turkey season. Not much better for deer season either.
Down to the last day, I woke up early to find it raining again and went back to bed. Without any birds roosted (which had been the story of the season,) I woke up in time for breakfast, then headed out to hunt the few remaining hours left in the season. It was bright and sunny out when I headed out the door. Not my usual “O-Dark Thirty” start on a spring turkey hunt
On such days that I enjoy an extended time afield, it has to be balanced with customer concerns, and results with me in the office until 9PM-10PM at night or working at home on the laptop. My wife and our two Weimaraner’s have their preferences of quality time together as well. On the days that I did manage to get out, it was something more akin to “Time Displacement” rather than time off. It is typical for those that own a business.
Back to the last day… I “ear and eye checked” a number of spots before heading to a secret, favorite state game land spot I’ll not disclose other than being located in Cortland County. With an hour and a half left in the season, I settled in. At 11AM sharp came three distinct “where are you clucks” somewhere very close in the pine woods. The turkey (unsure which variety) never appeared within my line of sight despite my prompt responses. Being very calm, and the bird very close made the clucks seem all the louder. Good fun as at least I was talking to a turkey. Twenty minutes later a series of yelps produced a gobble from across an old hay field. The bird gobbled one time, one time only. To my extreme pleasure, I saw the top of a fan pop up a hundred and fifty yards out. The gobbler wasted little time coming as once I saw the fan, he made steady progress towards my position. Without issuing another call, he came across and off the field into the pinewoods where I would finalize our chance encounter. 11:28AM I was done with a half hour to spare.
As with last spring season in New York where I had a much more bizarre circumstance with a last day, last hour gobbler, both gobblers had sustained serious injuries. Last day gobbler of Spring 2016 had been body shot, had many spur punctures to both breast areas leaving unhealed wounds, the bird was in advanced stages of gangrene, leaving the meat unfit to eat. It was surmised that the bird was ganged up on after the errant shooting and my deed put an end to the story at 11:02AM. Fast forward to yesterday, my late hour gobbler had broken tail feathers, a broken spur with one 1-1/4″ good spur remaining, and a beard that looked to have been subjected to a power tool. several strands remained attached stretching to 11″ Although not in the advanced stages of infection as the prior spring bird, this tough fellow had five spur puncture wounds to the breasts that appeared to be from recent encounters with a significant foe. I’d like to meet up with that gobbler. As before the meat had a foul smell and would defeat in part my plans for venison backstraps and wild turkey speedies/kabobs for the summer. It is not likely the gobbler would survive his injuries. A bittersweet end to the season.
June 1st, the fat lady has sung… Whatever grand schemes you may have had, master plans to win the game will have to wait until the fall season if you are like me, or if not, you have a longer wait until the next spring season.
My observations are that of Cortland and Madison Counties with a brief excursion to Cooperstown. Over the past twenty-five seasons like many of the enthusiastic turkey hunters out there, I have a bunch of hot spots and backup spots for finding gobblers to chase. It changes year to year sometimes. I have lost some prime spots due to changes in land owners, sales of farms, hunting partners, lease members dropping out, and so on. With a nearly even mix of private land vs state game lands, there are literally too many places to cover in a given season.
I’ll prefix my experiences this spring by saying that it comes down to location and timing. Right place, right time. My good friend Randy Russell Of Auburn NY was tagged out on day two. He had a hot gobbler the first day, a silent bird the second. I know of a few others that tagged out early. On a blue moon with a rare alignment of the stars, I have tagged out early in past seasons. Reports of hot gobbling birds were scattered, and the difficulty I experienced was shared by many.
With the exception of a very enthusiastic Jake running from place to place with sneakers on opening day, it was the only hot gobbling interlude of the season. To be fair my days afield were limited due to our family cancer scares, and work obligations. I got out a dozen mornings, most were until 7AM-9AM and off to the office or doctor visits.
A few of my fellow outdoor writers, Dan Ladd, Leo Maloney, Ed Noonan, my wife (Lee) and I got together at Leather Stocking Guide Service in Milford, NY for a weekend of turkey chasing, camaraderie and to attend to some business matters and meetings for the NYSOWA (New York State Outdoor Writers Assoc.). Leon Archer joined us for meetings on Friday after we came in from hunting. Bob Partridge and his crew made for a great weekend and set us out to our own devices on some of the nicest properties I have ever hunted in. We were in great turkey hunting territory, as good or arguably better than back home. With a possible future Spring Safari in Cooperstown, I’ll look forward to spending time there again. If you are a baseball fan it is a great destination stop. As you would expect it is easy to eat well there, and if you are a fan of craft beer, NY wines, or NY distilled spirits, there are several great stops to make all within short drives of each other. The gobbling activity was like we had going on back home, and despite the great weather, despite calling in one hen after another, no gobblers took the truck express back to camp.
Our season here in CNY started out with an early lull, followed by a mid-season lull, and cashed out with a late-season lull. Serious… Again, I know some hunters were right on top of gobbling birds. I was not one of them. The season started out cool and wet and it is thought the first nesting may have been affected. I personally found five different nests that were destroyed. Yet, my wife saw a hen with six poults in tow crossing the road onto our property last evening which is a welcomed sighting. More sightings will be even better.
Every season is a bit different in one way or another, for me it was nearly nonexistent for the traditional: “Bird gobbles, and you work him to the gun, gobbling on the way in.” I’ll gladly take what luck I did have with eventually filling both tags, and will enjoy the great memories of most excellent mornings in the Turkey Woods. The time to take in all that the turkey woods offers, to relax and collect one’s thoughts are all good times afield. Toting out a big gobbler after an epic battle is a grand time we all seek.
-MJ
© 2017 Joyner Outdoor Media
Turkey Reaping & Decoying- Unsafe? Irresponsible Danger? A Review…
Three years ago I penned my thoughts on Turkey Fanning, Turkey Reaping which has gained popularity by hunters and prominently shown on many Outdoor TV shows. The list includes some long-time veterans of the outdoor industry which I find surprising as most of those labeled with such a moniker have gotten there by being careful, conservative in their actions. Here’s a link to my original blog post: http://www.turkey-talk.com/tblog/?p=126
Back then I stepped up on one big soapbox and said my peace. No apologies, no retractions as my thoughts have not softened or changed much on the subject. I sure rattled a few cages and there was plenty of pushback and claims that I had no proof, no such foul play has ever occurred, totally safe, an elitist, and so on… I’ll step back up again…
Writing from a perspective of firm conviction, without conflicts of interests, or other detracting voices along comes the unfortunate truth of what I believed would be the inevitable outcome. Not against decoy use in general, but I find myself using them less as I find better ways to set up on an approaching gobbler. If there was ever something I would be all too happy to be wrong about, it would be this subject. I ran across several stories offering evidence of how unsafe it is, which sadly I’ll get to shortly.
It is not the perspective of “my way” is better than your way. Personally, I absolutely love roosting a gobbler on a big ridge, figure him out, call him in strutting to 30 paces and outsmart him for one single last time. Lots of hunters prefer hunting the edges of fields, I generally do not, but on occasion, I will if it is on the menu that day. Hunting with different people at times, the menu and properties change. You have some hunters that find Turkey Fanning, Turkey Reaping just as alluring as I find going about it the old time-honored ways of matching wits on the gobbler’s terms. In my last remark, It is not one way is better than the other. Very easy to imagine how much you would be on edge, your heart pounding in your throat while fanning up a big old gobbler. It has to be exciting, I get that. In all that excitement, and the snap shooting judgment that goes with it, how brief is the time to safely assess your sight picture, foreground, and background while the gobbler is making a hasty exit? In my opinion, it’s not worth the risk that comes with it.
Turkey Fanning, Turkey Reaping is absolutely effective and a high percentage way to kill wild turkeys. Plenty of outdoor hunt footage can be found on Youtube with one gobbler fooled after another using this approach. One is labeled as an elitist (bullying tactic) for decrying this method as foolhardy and unsafe for both the practitioner and unfortunate hunter who may come upon it. Is it worth that either may shoot each other or be shot inadvertently? It is reasonable to have disdain for the unsafe scenario it sets up. Since it’s resurgence has any gun safety instructors announced their endorsement of this practice? In the rolling terrain of upstate New York, you are at risk. Should you be out in the middle of a flat 200-acre corn field yet to be planted, not a concern. There are a few states that now ban this method, I suspect the more wide open terrain states will not, and would not view it as problematic there.
Propping up a turkey fan affixed to your barrel, worn on your head, or out in front while moving towards a strutting gobbler triggers him to dominate everything in the field. They come a running. Is this much different than going out on the first day of deer season wearing a deer costume with a pair of 140 class antlers on your head or as an attractive doe? I’ll buy you more than a few adult beverages if you allow me to take out an insurance policy on you with my name listed as a beneficiary.
Sure I have my preferred methods of how I hunt gobblers, I am not crazy about the choices of some hunters no more than they may of mine. But where legal, ethical, and in different places in the world where one can pursue wild turkeys, it is how it’s done, take it or leave it. I have no quarrel with that. When it comes to Turkey Fanning, Turkey Reaping it is my opinion that it is entirely unsafe with the exception of wide open fields and where rifles are illegal to use. Keep in mind we have hunters boasting of shotguns shooting effective patterns at eighty and ninety yards which is something not seen in a positive light in my view. I’ll leave that for another discussion.
As promised, and while climbing back down my ladder, here are the links to such unfortunate events including one in 2013 resulting in the death of a fellow turkey hunter. The second link is a follow-up article that mentions the fatality.
http://www.parsonssun.com/news/article_84ea535e-1fc7-11e7-bb26-9bfd6518961e.html?mode=jqm
I would be perfectly happy if no such proof existed, ate my humble pie, and called it a day. Some things would be better on being wrong about it. I am a nonbeliever in calling such events “accidents” and nearly all of them could be avoided, rare exceptions noted. A form of “reapercide” we can do without…
My thoughts extend to any hunter injured or losing their life while chasing game in our great forests. Such events are stark contrasts to the beauty and wonderment of spending time in the great turkey woods.
You may or may not agree with my comments, but I do believe we can agree that we all want to come back home at noon or the end of the day with great memories from the fields and woods we so love. Whether or not we agree on this topic, I would much rather buy you a craft beer and discuss as loudly as we care to rather than send my condolences.
Be safe, shoot straight, and live well
-MJ
© 2017 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
For The Love Of The Hunt
As an exercise of thinking out loud, to convey a collection of thoughts, please take my observations as a very personal perspective of my passions that I care so deeply about and in some ways define us and our roles in the natural world. It is not all inclusive nor singularly about me, as from many of your expressed views, you and I share a deep bond in our love of our great forests, and the game we pursue, even those we do not.
Like our political division we are in one way or another sucked into the “mean season.” In my humble opinion it has splashed over into other aspects of our lives. In particular the fraternity of hunting is of my concern. The social media hunting pages show this continuance of mean season in startlingly bold ways. Whether it be a trophy buck, a small buck or doe to fill the freezer, young turkey, old boss gobbler, how it was taken, where, by a woman, first time hunter, or a young hunter, the comments made fall very short of congratulations, or any sense of civility. Very divisive, disparaging remarks by hordes of “master hunters” or more correctly, keyboard warriors in full internet bully mode. Post after post of trashing successful hunters, trespassing, stolen stands/equipment, hunter harassment, lack of courtesy, embolden displays of disregard for the quarry, game laws, and land owners. Are we as part of the hunting fraternity willing to idly watch our ranks stoop to such depths or poor behavior, especially towards each other?
Personally I think we could do much better than what I currently observe in the public purview. I’ll stick my neck out in that it is doubtful this is the impression we wish to convey to non-hunters as to our love of our favored passion. How are we to be taken seriously when we berate each other in such fashion?
Like each of you, I have methods, choice of implements, and preferred strategies that I employ while chasing deer or turkey, other quarry. There are just as many other choices I may not be so keen on. Where it be illegal or unethical, I may speak out. Otherwise, why not enjoy the success of other hunters? Do our ego’s require that only ourselves have our hands around the biggest set of antlers or spurs? Like many of you, I have experienced, and admired the lengthy pursuit of an exceptional quarry spanning an entire season or in some cases many seasons. Not all of these epic adventures end with a happy hunter posing for a hero photo. The memories I’ll submit are for the love of the hunt. Yet after stating this, do we not also enjoy the brief alignment of the stars and fate for a chance encounter that comes and goes in a brief instant? Even as a professed admirer of “preparedness meets circumstance,” you can talk me into buying a 100lb bag of dumb luck all day long. Does it make it a lesser experience, or any less of a hunter for experiencing the hunt in this way? Of course not. Each of us experience the hunt in just as many different ways, and even more over time.
Admittedly I have some advantage of perspective with 32 seasons worth of memories to reflect on, to learn from. Fair to say I am in the phase of being a hunter that savors the hunt every bit or more than that actual taking of game, and find every bit of enjoyment and satisfaction in learning the experiences and successes of other fellow hunters. This is the lens I see through.
It would be a shortcoming to make these points or the case without some resolve to improve upon it, to make it a perceivable amount better. I’ll continue to admire, like and make positive comment of the successful hunts of my hunting brothers and sisters. I’ll continue to be fond of first time hunter success and especially young hunters. I can assure each of you, should we meet on a ridge, in the middle of a deer drive, I’ll not ask for your voter ID card, but I’ll ask how your season is going and offer congrats or encouragement. At the butcher shop or the taxidermist I’ll be quick to congratulate and admire a good day afield. Lastly in the public forums, I’ll be just as quick to enjoy your successes as my love of the hunt extends to the hope that you enjoy and love the hunt as I do.
-MJ
© 2016 Joyner Outdoor Media
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
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
Turkey Hunters- We might just have a better take on things?
Once we get into the naturally percieved slowdown that occurs after Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, we turkey hunters are in military style planning for opening days, what states we’ll hunt, what new honey hole, which gun, new ammo, new calls, old favorite calls, new hunt surefire device, and so on… We have logistics to think about, which hunting buddies to catch up with, scouting, that nasty old bird that must die (which we’ll likely chase again another year), and all sorts of little details that occupy our preparation.
It got me to thinking as to the type of folks that seem to end up obsessed with chasing gobblers and why we have so much in common and yet squabble over the little details. We discuss and argue the various things that contribute to the hunt’s success or taking the shotgun for a walk back to the truck. This also includes methods, and the cargo bags of gear and gadgets, of course. Together we all know that we will have our days of being soundly defeated, and our butts handed to us no matter how well prepared or determined we may be. We’ll not let that gem of logic deter us.
It was this line of thinking that brings me to the thought to convey here. We as turkey hunters are active participants, keenly interested in cause and effect, and judge things mostly by what they do or how well they work. We immerse ourselves in the experience of the hunt, and should we win the day, we are elated. We do know that a pea brain sized bird can humiliated us in ways that cannot be duplicated elsewhere. It makes it no less of a great hunt. By nature we are conservative leaning, and that is not an absolute, but similar to the crowd of engineers I align myself as. In my perspective I identify myself as an engineer and a turkey hunter, and as a runner, triathlete as side interests. Of course this is behind the priorities of family, God and country in my view.
It is not to say all turkey hunters are conservative or republicans and I know many that lean just as far to the liberal side. I would not hesitate to share a hunt with them. Yet the things I now mention are the things that we share in common, and we get along fine. In part that we are about tangible things, factual findings, not emotional drivel, not political correctness, or chant of the day. As hunters we understand the cycle of life, our mortality as well as that of our quarry, We are studies of the natural world, and how things and or actions work or do not work. We see the value of conservation efforts that improve our forests, and quality of wildlife. We witness & participate in the comeback from market hunting to vastly improved wildlife populations. All of this in stark contrast to the anti-hunting rhetoric out there. It is these personal qualities that I believe we apply in our everyday lives.
Like many of you I suspect, find it nearly intolerable to watch the news, the racism narrative being vomited on us. The anti-gun this and that, anti-hunting, this or that. If you don’t believe in God, then no one else should either. If you don’t believe in my God, I’ll cleanse you by cutting off your head. Somehow everyone is offended or civil rights violated because of my white privilege, and the nonsense goes on and on. We witness senseless revenge killings of the police, yet disregard the actions of those that basically commit suicide by cop. As if criminal behavior should just be ignored and do as one dam well pleases. My rant stops here.
A facebook post caught my attention as it sums up my response to a lot of the foolishness that is reported in the news and exploited by our political leaders. The precepts here apply well to many things, including hunting. I’ll stick my neck out and claim that for the most part we as hunters are well aware that we own each and all of our decisions we make. In the woods, ill choices send us home empty handed in game and the grand experience anticipated. This precept also is handy when it comes to safety, and being ethical as hunters and as people. I’ll share the post here:
“Everything you do is based on your choices you make. It’s not your parents, your past relationships, your job, the economy, the weather, an argument / conflict, or your age that is to blame. You and you alone are responsible for every decision and choice you make. Period.’
My point which may seem a bit jumbled as I find current events beyond unreasonable and frustrating is that maybe the world would be better off if more people thought more like a hunter would. I will go as far as to say a turkey hunter’s perspective. Do any of us turkey hunters care if that great box call was crafted by a black (yellow, purple, green, whatever) man? A woman? A disable person? A (name religion) person? We care how much for the call, and is there any story or history that goes along with the call. Do any of us feel that white privilege (fill in whatever absurd idea applies) when a gobbler teases us for two hours at five yards past our range limit then walks away to one lone hen after you played the game the best you ever have? Would any of us not respect a land owner because of some discriminating factor? Tell me that any of us turkey slayers would not hunt a monster gobbler on a prime spot because the land owners were black, or a gay couple? We’ll give them the respect they deserve… Duh… Moving along… Not saying that we are perfect by any stretch, or that we don’t have racists in our ranks, but in our world, this foolishness has no place in our decision making, or in our treatment of others.
The silver lining in this rash of miserable news and currently sentiment is that for us as hunters it is an opportunity. We can go about our daily lives treating others well, and with the respect we would like for ourselves. The more folks recognize us as a group that treats people well, the better off we’ll be. Be an ambassador for our sport. Apply this generously with landowners that grant you access, and to those that don’t. Those folks will observe your actions and you can change hearts and minds by living well. It will be a better day when those that exploit any and all situations to win an argument, to get out of personal responsibility or not contribute to the common good, or to claim some perceived injustice, and get back to the type of thinking we do as hunters. Doing what it takes and making good choices to make a positive goal realized. It’s optimistic, but just the same a good way to be.
© 2015 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Turkey Reaping & Decoying- Over The Top, Irresponsible Danger?
This is a subject I regret not getting to before the start of spring turkey season across our great nation this year. Having been subjected to a dangerous situation just days ago, my writings may appear preachy and from the perspective of a very tall soap box. If I rant on too much for your reading tastes, please forgive me.
When it comes to personal safety, I will not apologize. My hunting ethics may or may not be as yours, but I would assert there should be and there must be common ground in these matters. Whether this misguided practice of reaping is legal in your state or not, we have an obligation to our fellow hunters to put it bluntly- Not shoot them.
I personally use decoys in certain situations, mainly wide open hardwoods and fields with open approaches. The gobblers can see the decoys, and I am not surrounded by heavy cover nor encouraging stalking by others who would have no respect for themselves, me or my safety. Moving up to a field edge or on a ridge to gain a calling position is one thing. Stalking hen calls or crawling up to jump up and snap shoot is unsafe and wrong on so many levels.
I am sure that I am not making friends with the decoy industry or those who strongly disagree with my assertions here (advocates of reaping). As much as I like new gear, improved products, I cannot go along with $100-$400 decoys made to be ultra realistic or done as production line taxidermy. Seriously, if you put out a taxidermy mount or one of these über expensive decoys, how is one going to explain that away at trial for a shooting incident in the turkey woods. Is it that hard to phantom someone stalking your position, spotting your latest Acme 200 Stud Strutter decoy and promptly shoot it with you possibly in the path of the shot?
The latest fad, coined “turkey reaping” is way over the top. Simply put you wear a gobbler decoy on your head or in front of, or use a cardboard version held out in front of you and stalk directly towards a gobbler. Either you move in close or a dominate bird would charge at you to run you off. You then pull up your gun or snap shoot the gobbler at close range. Does it work? You bet, as there is plenty of footage to back up the claim. In that it is impressive.
This is where I stop and put on the brakes. Fact: the method/practice is unsafe, irresponsible, unethical, reckless and oh did I mention unsafe? A form of “reapercide” we can do without…
Think of this in terms of explaining this to a non-hunter or say a judge. Wearing and or displaying a gobbler decoy while in the field or turkey woods in simple terms means that you are willing to be the target that is the main objective of turkey season.
Let me paint a very common and plausible scenario. Let’s say you are set up below the lip of a ridge in open hardwoods or a rolling pasture. Been at it since sunrise and now it’s that special time when gobbler’s hens walk off, and they are searching again. You may have your acme decoy out maybe a hen or two. Just over rise not 35 yards away you spot the top of a fan. Little by little more of the über realistic decoy appears, you see the bright head, huge full fan, but not the lower third of the bird. Three hours waiting on this moment, you’re not going to let this one slip back over the edge and disappear as they always do. BOOM!! Congrats you just killed another hunter. Maybe if you had waited he might have jumped up and shot your cool gobbler decoy, and maybe you as well.
Do I hope this happens? Absolutely not, but I’d bet a crisp $100 bill that it will, sooner than later. Is there any justification to risk so much for any game animal? A gobbler? I think not. I can not nor will not accept the premise that one can offer a reasonable argument that the risks outweighs the rewards, that jumping up or snap shooting gives the shooter reasonable time or sight picture to ascertain a safe background before squeezing the trigger.
Do any of us need to punch a tag that bad that we’ll resort to risking our own safety or that of others? This is a worst case scenario for gun safety instructors and I have yet to see their endorsement of this practice.
This is all legal to do in many states, and it is always the case of playing catch up with new things as they come about. We as sportsmen do not require catching up for ethics and being diligent about gun/hunting safety. I ask each of you to ponder what I have brought up here and voice your opinions. If you come to the same or similar conclusion as I, let your wildlife agencies know, and hopefully ban this practice, save someone’s life or from suffering a life altering injury.
The satisfaction of fooling, outwitting a narly old gobbler to your setup based on good calling as needed, using great knowledge of the turkeywoods, and not needing all these gimmicks is a great experience to be had. We sorely need to get past the onslaught of irresponsible marketing of these companies and get back to basics.
As a side note, this was a difficult blog to write and post, as we have enough battles to wage with anti’s, and the likes of bows verses crossbows, etc. I routinely rep different companies and know that side of it as well. Business is hard enough these days, and fighting for our sport just as hard. We all get into discussions as which way is better than the other. When it comes to matters of safety and ethics, although a hard decision to speak out, it was a clear choice to make.
Be safe, shoot straight!
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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