Thanksgiving
A Cure For What Ails Us
With all the modern efficiencies of time management, conveniences, bigger, better, faster… We might agree that we are worn out with the collective demands of our time, and the new-fangled ways to get there much faster. As we are engaged in the holiday weekend of family gatherings, indulgent meals, and most importantly- what we are thankful for, might we take a few moments to reflect on what we might have missed in our highly efficient lives?
It is good advice from well-learned experience that a time out to stroll through, take a seat from great vantage points in the great turkey woods is food for our souls. It is well within keeping of the Thanksgiving Holiday and a best practice for all the seasons. Personally, it is grounding for me to visit these places where deer and turkey roam, a place of refuge to gather thoughts and renew my perspective. I believe you’ll find it to be of similar benefit. To improve on such advice, bring along your loved ones, your children, a friend. Let them learn to cherish these special places, to find refuge there, and come to love the wild places we as hunters so revere.
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Our America
As I write this, I do so from a hospital bed, surviving a full COVID beat down. Humbled beyond words, and fortunate to be alive. There was a 9/12 that I’ll put it out there that we all felt fortunate, humbled, mad as hell and we were all going to kick ass side by side, as Americans.
Since that period of time, we have been played as fools into being mad at each other about, for or against any matter one can think of. We can easily rally against each other, at will, and without much notice. Would it not be far simpler to just rally behind each other, our neighbors, the very people we collectively call ourselves “Americans?”
What was made clear to me in my near death experience is that we know enough to seek forgiveness for our major offensives. What we, you and I fail to do is to seize the lesser opportunities of moments of kindness, to forgive more easily. Speaking for myself, I have a bit of work to do there…
For those of you that are polar opposite to my conservative thoughts, I can toast to our betterment in life and the hope we return to the land of united bloody Americans (as the Brits would call us.)
I have not forgotten:
The memories, the feelings from that day have not faded, nor diminished. It was to be a perfect blue bird day in September.
The near perfect September day morphed, shattered for thousands of victims in mere seconds for many, some in agonizing, terror filled minutes, hours yet for others.
In the ripples of life, our greatest loss is to never know or benefit from what great deeds and accomplishments from all those lost.
That we came together as Americans.We were united as Americans. We still are Americans. Many have forgotten this very fact in recent times.
Those that perished on this fateful day of September 11th, 2001.
Those that gave all in order to save lives. Heroes that walk among us to this day.
Those who survived only to succumb to it days, months, and years later.
That we are all equal by way of our maker
This is republish each year as I find it so important to include:
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts return to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for our country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. We can all benefit from a little emphasis on acts of kindness.
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
NY 2021 Fall Turkey Season
Coming up fast to August, It’s a good time to get out to get a sense of how well the brooding season went, how large the flocks may be to set up game plans for the staggered opening days starting in October. As September rolls in you’ll find many of the fields have seen their final cuts for haying and the start of some corn fields being harvested towards the end of the month. Cornfields will be gotten to, well into October and November depending on how wet things get. Shown below are the published season’s dates and a fall harvest report to see how successful hunters were in your respective counties. Turkey hunting regulations and reporting requirements (much the same in recent years) can be found at: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/32162.html
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Turkey Hunters Shot in Two Separate Events
Two unfortunate events that were being tracked have been reported by reliable sources. This brings the 2021 Spring turkey season up to nine hunters and one hiker shot. More details on prior reported incidents: http://www.turkey-talk.com/tblog/?p=2008 http://www.turkey-talk.com/tblog/?p=2051
It should be noted that the first incident reported below is single sourced from a local town police department facebook page. No search conducted thus far show the event picked up by local/regional/state/national news outlets. The second incident appeared in two legitimate news sources. Should you come across additional relevant sources and would like to share, send an email to mjoyner@joyneroutdoormedia.com It is also important to note that several anti-hunting blogs that I come across also scan and search the internet for any fodder that supports their agenda to abolish hunting. It is an observation that they search daily as coverage of hunting mishaps often appear there before showing up in resources I routinely use. I will have commentary on that in a future post.
It is initially reported that a male hunter was shot in the face in Sterling State Forest Park. Tuxedo Police Detective Stefan Christian’s initial investigation also reports that a second hunter was also shot in the leg, by a hunting partner. The incident is being further investigated by NYSDEC Police. https://www.facebook.com/TuxedoPolice/posts/1652794211776262
Chad Steven Henneman, 45, from Las Cruces, New Mexico died on April 25, 2021, while turkey hunting with friends in the Lincoln National Forest. Henneman, along with his fiancée, Marcena Flynn, and a friend were hunting in the national forest near New Mexico Highway 37 when the incident occurred. The hunting trip was his time away of service as active-duty with Department of Homeland Security Customs and as a Border Protection agent. From Leah Romero @ Las Cruces Sun News- “According to documents released by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office June 21, Flynn said the couple returned to their truck while the other friend remained on a mountain to hunt, but Henneman reportedly started back toward his friend. Flynn heard a turkey gobble, followed soon after by a gunshot. She told authorities that when she walked back to the pair, Henneman was on the ground receiving chest compressions from the friend.” As of this post, there are no further details nor any charges have been filed…
Obituary: https://www.gazette-tribune.com/obituaries/chad-steven-henneman/81238/
We can do better as zero incidents is the only acceptable number by following the most basic safety protocols. Each time I go afield I know that I owe myself, each of you to clearly identify my target, what is in front and beyond the target, to be be safe, to employ strict and safe firearm handling. I also owe each of you to pause if anything is not quite right, or by chance what is in front of me is not 100% as it appears. Take the time to be 100% sure…
I will update as more details are published. We continue to pray for those injured, that have succumbed to their injuries and for their families. May they heal well Godspeed.
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Turkey Hunting Viral Neurosis
With several weeks of reprieve, most of us should now be on the mend! I dare say most of us that spend more than a weekend or two chasing pea brain sized fowl suffer some level of this viral affliction. Like many of you, I can pin point with military GPS precision when, where, and how the infection took hold. On a very cold late deer season hunt in December 1992, I became witness to a flock of gobblers being busted off the roost by incoming deer hunters below the property I was hunting. Hunting at the edge of a very large bowl on a pristine and very quiet morning, at day break, I was blown away by the voracious gobbling that ensued from the break. As it echoed out through the bowl below my position, it was larger than life and in an instant I was infected, mesmerized beyond recovery…
Each season we willing violate most tenets of healthy living with the exception of daily moderate exercise. Caffeine consumption increases dramatically. Nominal six to eight hour sleep reduces to three or four hours on a good night. The consumption of Debbie’s Oatmeal Cream Pies is enough to propel the company to have their best months of sales from March thru May. Damn fool for not buying their stock years ago. I will put it out there that we give fishermen a run for their money in boosting the local economy at the small town diners, bars, and last but not least for the consumption of gas station food.
As a member of the infamous Tenth Legion, I pamper my affliction with no intention of ever being cured of it. As I age, I may slow in my movements, fight the girth that aims to overtake my idea of how long it takes to go from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’. Yet, I’ll get there come hell or high water. We are all familiar with the quote by author Tom Kelly that captures the adrenaline, the beating of our hearts so loudly the gobbler should hear it. My experience of that peaks just before the gobbler appears. Once in sight my response is more absolute with checklists of shot mechanics. I fully agree that the day that ceases to happen, I will have concluded my time in the turkey woods. May that be well past my final days.
As our neurosis peaks each spring, and fall I wish each of my brethren in solidarity, and in common ailment a recuperative summer, and that your best scheming and planning come to fruition in your obligations to return to the turkey woods next season.
MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
2021 NYSOWA Spring Safari @ Sacandaga Lake
Photo: Ann Boles
NYSOWA Spring Safari at Sacandaga Lake
A long overdue and highly anticipated Spring Safari took place the second week in May in the town of Broadalbin. The Broadalbin Hotel would be our base of operations for outings on Lake Sacandaga, and gobbler chasing in secret locations in and around Fulton County. Originally scheduled to have taken place in 2020, it was canceled due to the pandemic lock-downs that we are all too familiar with.
From a most personal perspective, the safari was a heartfelt reunion for those of us that could attend. We do enjoy each other’s company and especially enjoyed a well ran safari by so many that I will thank here shorty. It was an outstanding spring safari. It was clear to this author that a year and a half is far too long for us as a group to not spend time together enjoying the outdoors. With the passing of beloved members over the the course of this down time, the loss of spending time together is ever so poignant. I will provide links at the end to those who helped make this a most memorable event.
A big thank you for setting up the event and doing the heavy lifting to make it happen goes out to Safari Chairman Stephen George from our group, Ann Boles, director for tourism for both Fulton and Montgomery counties and last but not least, Dan Ladd who is indispensable for making things come together and pitching in wherever needed. Flawless execution of many moving parts and for herding cats which we are world renown in a casual observation.
The Broadalbin Hotel was an ideal base camp for us, as it is steeped in rich history, and provided all we could ever ask for in warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, and wonderful table fare! We took advantage of a great 2nd-floor balcony for our impromptu get-togethers and a back area fire pit which we thoroughly enjoyed. The hotel provided easy access to all our activities and I might add a perfect place to stay for any outing you might want to pursue in the area. Highly recommended and there are many from our group that will be looking to return for overnight stays in our gateway to the Adirondack outings.
The outings for our safari included fishing, turkey hunting, hiking, canoeing, shopping, museum/historic site tours, and visiting craft beer breweries. Ann was our liaison with the bureau of tourism, and provided support throughout our safari and did an outstanding job in representing the county in all that it has to offer. There were so many places to see and activities to enjoy it would take far more than a few extended weekends to partake in them all.
Turkey hunting was my natural choice for both mornings, and it did not disappoint. I stepped foot in some of the best turkey woods I ever had the privileged to hunt in. Hunting beautiful dairy farms with well-managed forests was a treat I particularly enjoyed. The birds did not gobble much in the piece I hunted, but I did manage to call up jakes on both days in addition to a hen on the second. Other fellow writers drawn to the turkey woods had close encounters and there was a swing and a clean miss. A trail cam revealed a few weeks later that a few tail feathers were trimmed, nothing more than hurt pride to report. A big thank you to Jerrod Vila and his crew for putting this together.
After seeing up close the Great Sacandaga Lake for the first time during this trip, I might opt for fishing when I return. Brian Hurst who owns Fish Attractor Guide Service hosted writers from our group on the lake both days and they had action both days. A good time had by all as reported.
Our afternoon events would include a tour of Slipstream Canoes along with a live demo at the lake and a stop for a pizza party, a tour at the Adirondack Sports & Educational Museum / New York Outdoorsman Hall of Fame, and a preview of a large expansion currently under construction. A big thank you to Mike Hauser for sponsoring the visit to Great Sacandaga Brewing! We would enjoy excellent tastings at Great Sacandaga Brewing and Stump City Brewing in the afternoons, Meeting the owners and getting the rundown on their respective histories along with first-hand descriptions of each offering topped off great afternoons on both days while taking in what the area has to offer for visiting sportsmen and tourists.
Our first lunchtime presentation featured special guest Robert Smullen, NYS Assemblyman for the 118th District who took many questions and responded very candidly as a supporter of sportsman’s issues and second amendment rights. We had a zoom meeting with the NYSDEC and many questions and answers took place. We welcome the opportunity to have a direct audience and hope for more direct dialog in the future. A big thank you to Adirondack Outdoorsman Show (Mike Hauser) & Allwater Guide Services (Capt. Stephen George) for sponsoring a great lunch at the Broadalbin Hotel. The craft hamburger was outstanding in case you may inquire…
Saturday lunch was a special treat at the Pine Tree Rifle club which is steeped in history and has an impressive outlay of ranges and activities. We got a rundown of the lengthy and impressive history of the club, followed by a presentation and product demos from Black Street Archery.
Our main dinner event was held at the Broadalbin Hotel, followed by a member zoom meeting lead by president Chris Paparo. A big thank you goes out to Capital Region Pheasants Forever chapter, Franks Gun Shop, and Pine Tree Rifle Club for sponsoring the event. Our sponsors were in attendance and I personally enjoyed their comments and meeting them at our safari. On a side note, Dan Ladd and I made a quick stop at Franks Gun Shop and it is very impressive how much they carry in stock and the team of knowledgeable and friendly employees they have on hand.
Randy Gardinier, chairman of the Great Sacandaga Lake Fisheries Federation (GSLFF) gave us a rundown of the history of Great Sacandaga Lake, and a new hiking challenge: Fulton County Five, that includes a patch and certificate for completing all five trails. The trails are ideal for those new to hiking the Adirondacks. The trails that comprise the series are Indian/Stewart Lake, Kane Mountain Fire Tower, Mud Lake, Nine Corner Lake, and Willie Wildlife Marsh.
The event concluded Sunday with a few of us staying for breakfast at the hotel which I highly recommend. With a beautiful sunny day to greet us, the ride home was worth taking the more scenic route and worth the price of admission. The year’s spring safari was one I’ll long remember, and I encourage our members to come spend a long weekend with us in the future. I was duly impressed with my time here and will return in the future to enjoy it further!
Please check out the links below:
Adirondack Outdoorsman Show (Mike Hauser) http://adkshow.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Adirondack-Outdoorsman-Show-79046747861/
Adirondack Sports & Educational Museum / New York Outdoorsman Hall of Fame https://wildlifesportsmuseum.com/ https://nysohof.org/
Allwater Guide Services (Capt. Stephen George) www.allwaterguideny.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AllwaterGuideNY
Ann Boles, director of tourism:Fulton and Montgomery Counties https://www.fultonmontgomeryny.org/staff/
Black Street Archery https://www.blackstreetarchery.com/ https://www.facebook.com/BlackStreetArchery/ https://www.yelp.com/biz/black-street-archery-johnstown
Capital Region Pheasants Forever chapter https://pheasantsforever.org/
The Broadalbin Hotel https://www.historicbroadalbinhotel.com/ https://www.facebook.com/hotelbroadalbin/
https://www.yelp.com/biz/historic-hotel-broadalbin-broadalbin
Franks Gun Shop http://www.franksgunshops.com/
Fish Attractor Guide Service https://www.facebook.com/Fish-Attractor-Guide-Service-1984435795130312/
Fulton County. https://www.fultonmontgomeryny.org/ http://www.44lakes.com/
Fulton County Five Hiking Challenge http://www.44lakes.com/fulton-county-5-hiking-challenge/
Great Sacandaga Brewing https://greatsacandagabrewing.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GreatSacandagaBrewing/ https://www.yelp.com/biz/great-sacandaga-brewing-broadalbin
Great Sacandaga Lake Fisheries Federation (GSLFF) http://www.gslff.com/
New York State Outdoor Writers Association (NYSOWA) www.nysowa.org
Pine Tree Rifle Club http://www.pinetreerifleclub.org/ https://www.facebook.com/pinetreerifleclub
Robert Smullen, NYS Assemblyman for the 118th https://www.nyassembly.gov/mem/Robert-Smullen https://www.facebook.com/SmullenForAssembly
Ann Boles, director of tourism:Fulton and Montgomery Counties https://www.fultonmontgomeryny.org/staff/
Slipstream Canoes http://slipstreamwatercraft.com/Slipstream_Watercraft_2/Welcome.html
Stump City Brewing https://www.stumpcitybrewery.com/ https://www.facebook.com/StumpCityBrewery/ https://www.yelp.com/biz/stump-city-brewery-gloversville
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Pixie Swatting Turkey’s, Extended Range, Extended Wounding?
While reveling in the success of outwitting a tough old state land gobbler yesterday, one that had eluded me for the better part of three mornings, I would come upon a rather unpleasant surprise. I was taken back when it came time to conclude the happy event and prepare the bird for the freezer. Setting upon the task of removing the breast and legs for a soon to be tasty meal, I was greeted with the foul stench from prior wounds. On the left side, the wing, the breast and the legs were shot with #9 pellets that I recognized as TSS shot. None of the shot penetrated the boiler room. Currently #9 shot is illegal to use on gobblers in NY.
This would be the fifth gobbler taken, and found to be uneatable in recent years, and yes, all were Pixie Swatted. One in 2016, one in 2017, and two in 2020. All late season public land birds. All but this one taken in the last days of the season. As much as I appreciate the trophy qualities of big old gobblers, the mental exercise of outwitting them, the desired purpose of hunting them is to enjoy the table fare that results from it.
In voicing this observation and learned opinion I am claimed by the peanut gallery to be biased, hateful, beneath my stature, along with the boorish and expected personalization common to the social media experience. As the heavier-than-lead proponents are hyper-sensitive to any criticism of their favored shot shells and particularly prone to assuming entire positions rather than what is actually voiced as an opinion, I’ll run thru the default clauses that I hold to be evident.
It is a clearly stated truism that TSS and similar shot composites are much denser than lead offerings, delivering the same or more energy in a smaller frontal profile that produces better penetration. The smaller shot that does not deform as it travels through the barrel results in significantly better than lead patterns when matched well with a proper choke tube. I found this to be true with Hevi-13’s once I got a good match with a choke tube. It is a godsend to use in 410’s, 20 gauges that have limited payload and performance with lead, copper/lead shotshells. At the nominal forty-yard range, the upgrade to tungsten loads in small shot sizes makes these smaller bores a pleasure to shoot and easily tuned to be on par with a 12 gauge at 40-yard ranges (I do own a Rem 870 equipped with an ATI reduction stock that would rival any 410 for felt recoil and all the benefits of a full bore 12ga.) In a 12 ga, it’s overkill at nominal ranges. The performance gain is noted for extended ranges for those that willingly accept that they cannot close the distance in our favored chess game. The risks of what can go astray at extended ranges come along with it. Are these products effective, an upgrade? Yes, when used sensibly, abet a rather expensive solution. Anytime you want to pattern a new shotgun with these products it’s a $50 proposition at a minimum. Far more if trying multiple loads and choke combinations. To be fair, at nominal ranges I appreciate the massive punch it delivers to the target.
It is an old-school mantra that requires no apology to work a gobbler on his terms, to make your hair part, and pants wave when he gobbles. It is a fool’s errand to mention that it is perfectly acceptable that a gobbler wins the day sometimes to the sniper crowd that subscribes to any means possible. In the concept of fair chase, of a gobbler outwitted by calling and woodsmanship, the insistence of acceptance of long-range shots is rejected by those that engage in a time-honored pursuit.
What I hold to be the source of my criticism of heavier-than-lead products is the marketing and promotion of extended-range, long-range shots. Equally culpable is the promotion of it among our ranks advocating 60-100 yard shots in commentary, and in videos. When it comes to misses, crippling, wounded birds, mum is the word, crickets.
Some are quick to assert it is only the hunter themselves that is responsible for it. As the last stop in the chain of decisions/actions taken, this is true; it is also a lame rebuttal that sidesteps an inconvenient truth. We are just as responsible to lead by example, to promote ethical methods, and expect the same from the hunting products industry and suppliers. We view with disdain “plausible deniability” when politicians assert this, are we to take refuge in this from ourselves, manufacturers, and suppliers?
Can one claim long shots, wounding birds were solely instigated by these products? Of course not… With the promotion of extended-range shooting by manufacturers, suppliers, among ourselves, one can reasonably call out the practice despite the assertions and snarky personal comments. Is the incidence of wounded birds on the rise? Anecdotally? Yes. As searches do not list research or peer-reviewed studies to assert wounding more birds at longer distances exacerbated by modern shotshell technology, proponents will claim no proof of it. My anecdotal yet direct experience suggests otherwise. Hence this is commentary, not a research paper. $2 and my opinion will get you a good cup of coffee at the diner. Be sure to bring $2 with you.
In any of these discussions does anyone care to mention how much the shot pattern drops over extended range? Would a foothold over a gobbler’s head at sixty yards suffice while bearing down on a bead that covers far more than the bird’s head? Do any of the advocates care to list the drop at 80? 100? It is surmised that the failure to properly compensate for the significant drop at extended ranges is a likely contributor for body shooting these birds. Add to the range estimation error that increases with distance, there is an accumulation of things that go wrong the farther one is willing to squeeze the trigger. Variance in shells is further revealed at longer distances, Having had underloaded shells in a batch from a major ammo company cost me some dandy long beards. A lesson learned the hard way.
There will be plenty that will not be feeling the love on this topic. In my perspective, it is not an issue of improving the product, but to rethink what we promote among ourselves and what we accept, reject or tolerate from suppliers of our hunting products.
I would appreciate if when you shoot a gobbler, you do so within your appreciable skills and equipment capabilities. We owe it to the quarry we pursue, and I would like to enjoy my bounty at the dinner table…
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
The 31 Day War
April 30th 2021, the Gobbler Wars begin in 20 hours as I write this! Each spring and fall season we sign up voluntarily and without reservation despite the well documented side effects of sleep deprivation, increased irritability, and a pronounced increase in the use of foul language. It is expected when matching wits with a gobbler with a pea sized brain… For us old grumpy turkey hunters, irritability and foul language might not be that unusual…
The pic used for this musing is of a gobbler I have on my target list. It is a long-distance shot even for a mirror lens as the glass I would need to make this a much better pic would run the cost of a 10-12 year old used car. This gobbler shows up as he does captured here on a well traveled road on a property I do not have permission to hunt on. A solid three quarters of mile from a property I can approach him from. I’ll bide my time as with that many hunters that have laid eyes on him, he’ll been finished early, or pushed off on to property I can access. This is similar to a dandy gobbler I tagged several years ago, same scenario, same property.
As many of you, I’ll be glassing a lot of territory today, especially this evening. High winds and more rain in Cortland County is expected. With the circumstances as they are, unless you can approach your spots close enough to hear, your binoculars are your best tool to gain critical clues for tomorrow morning. Hopefully you have a month’s worth of scouting and Intel to piece together your battle plans for the opening weekend, It is likely given the conditions that birds may hunker down and not be visible at all as you might otherwise expect. If you have been out the past month working up several dossier’s you have a one up on gaining contact with a gobbler this weekend. I know several hard core turkey hunters that will start their scouting for 2022, on June 1st and they have a collection of long spurs that affirms their year long scouting habits of many years of due diligence. Contrary to popular opinion, they primarily hunt New York State Forests, affirming they are as good if not better than private holdings. I can attest to this also, as it has been my experience over the past decade.
To each of you, I wish a fruitful month long battle full of memories, and close encounters with our favored game bird. Be safe, and may you enjoy your time in the great Turkey woods of New York!!
MJ
© 2021
Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Turkey Hunter Shot-Stalking? Decoys? Reaping? True Stories?
Out of all the topics I cover as an outdoor writer this topic is perhaps the most gut-wrenching to follow up on.
For those of you that follow my posts, you may recall last spring’s post- Eleven Turkey Hunters Shot…. since then I learned of more incidents from the same season for a total of 16 hunters shot. Other than a few brief paragraphs, no details that we might want to know were disclosed which brings me to the following observations… I can assure you, I conduct repeated searches for updates.
I had full intentions to report follow-ups to each of these unfortunate and preventable events. Several had positive story angles of their hunting partners responding Godspeed with emergency care, and immediate transport to professional medical care facilities. Modern-day heroes if you will indulge me. I do hope that interviews be granted in the future as the value of having a hunting partner can make all the difference in hunting strategies and for the unexpected events we may encounter.
The following story I reported on does have further developments: Father and 11-year-old son shot while turkey hunting, Son succumbed to his injuries. https://mynbc15.com/news/local/mobile-man-charged-in-hunting-accident-that-left-11-year-old-boy-dead Update: the initial charge upgraded to capital murder- https://www.al.com/news/2020/12/veteran-now-charged-with-capital-murder-in-11-year-old-jeffco-boys-hunting-death.html
Other victims, although very open and willing to share their initial experiences, Did not contact afterwards when things settled down. It is not a criticism as full respect for their privacy and my unwillingness to engage in tabloid journalism is the approach here. I have left the door open should they wish to in the future.
For the past two decades, I have tracked stories when they occur. In doing the research other than an initial story, historic search results in one or two paragraphs with little detail at all, in general, reporters see no distinction in how hunting accidents (yes, they call them that) occur nor provide the terms and details we often use to nail down specifics. In each of the events, I have followed the trail of, coverage falls off sharply as one could deduct that hunters shooting hunters ranks rather low in the public interest, and barely a mention in today’s wall-to-wall 24/7 news cycles.
The lack of detailed data can be attributed to HIPAA laws, restricted access in active investigations/court cases, and a tendency for victims to remain private following a shooting encounter. I could ultimately use the FOIL process to gain further details that law enforcement and wildlife agencies are not eager to share. Access to databases used by enforcement, and wildlife agencies would certainly add more to the story. Given the victims’ clear desire for privacy, it is not an intrusive tact I wish to take.
Having covered such topics I am often challenged, demanding proof by naysayers and advocates of stalking/reaping/fanning turkeys that there are no such events, and that reaping and fanning-related shootings do not occur at all. It is the equivalent of burying one’s head in the sand. Vetted studies that suggest otherwise, are a contributing factor in states enacting an outright ban on the practices. Should you care to research this you’ll find as I have that nearly all of the reported news of turkey hunting-related shooting incidents is lacking in substantive details. Having met and known those directly as victims I close this line of thought as too many armchair experts are willfully ignorant in order to support such methods. Non-apologetic for criticism of the absence of common sense and basic safety concerns.
To be fair, to add proper context and perspective, overall with millions of participants engaged in pursuing wild turkeys, we are a rather polite and safe lot despite being sometimes referred to as bloodthirsty killers roaming the woods with bows and shotguns. Statistically, by the numbers, turkey hunting is one of the safest activities we can indulge in. That said, can we agree that zero occurrences are the acceptable incident rate?
As I write this, a report comes out of Union, South Carolina of a hunter shot this morning, no details other than one taken to the hospital, One can assume while turkey hunting? Maybe? As such, no details as of yet.
Having spoken to some of the victims from the spring 2020 hunting incidents directly (some have declined), I can attest to the occurrences with ill-fated results of stalking, reaping, fanning, and the poor acts of shooting decoys, even hen decoys during a rushed shot, where we as shooters have an obligation to identify our targets, just as we are obligated to not present undue risk in our actions. This is much the same concept as taught in defensive driving courses.
It is one thing to read of these events, it is entirely different to speak to victims over the phone, in written correspondence, yet again in a more profound way to meet in person at NWTF national conventions to be handed a full dossier with full-color photos and to shake their hand directly. I can assure you it leaves a lasting impression as to the aftermath of these ill-fated events.
As half the country is currently in season, the next few weeks will open up for the remaining states. It is my sincere hope to have no incidents to comment on, and that you can keep posting the hero pics and smiling faces of youths out for their very first hunts. I prefer those. I wish each of you a safe and memorable season…
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
March 8, 2021 Update- Spring Turkey Hunting & Fishing COVID-19 Restrictions
The following is a current update of currently impacted state hunting and fishing seasons as the current reality… I will continue to update this when states ease and or rescind restrictions entirely. Instead of season shutdowns as in 2020, states that have 10 to 14-day quarantines may also opt out with 72 hour testing to forgo the quarantine which modifies our plans at the least, or ends the possibilities of taking the trip in the worst scenario. In general most of the restrictions will affect all travel without regard to purpose. Canada is currently shut down for all recreational activities for non-residents.
Please review your home state for return restrictions as you would for your next hunting or fishing destination as 21 of the 50 states are currently subjected to restrictions. Those planning to hunt tribal lands, or military bases check directly with their respective websites for latest status.
Alaska– update 3/8 non-resident travelers to Alaska are no longer required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result in order to gain entry but are strongly encouraged to do so. As of March 5, Alaska’s Safe Travels website did not reflect the policy change.
-2nd test, taken five to14 days after arrival in Alaska, is strongly recommended, but not required.
-All non-resident travelers must still complete a Travel Declaration Form and a Self-Isolation Plan
-Asymptomatic travelers contracted / recovered from COVID-19 can forego testing by providing proof of a previously positive result of a PCR test taken within 90 days of travel.
California: Regional stay-at-home orders issued in January have been lifted. restrictions exist in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Santa Clara County- travelers arriving from over 150 miles away must quarantine for 10 days. In most counties, hotels can welcome travelers and restaurants can serve outdoors. Los Angeles, all travelers over the age of 16 who are entering from another state or country must submit this online form Form must be filled in when arriving into an airport or Union station.
Connecticut: update 3/8 A policy update is set to take effect on March 19, transitioning Connecticut’s mandatory travel restrictions to recommended guidance, Currently in force: Travelers must quarantine for 10 days except from New Jersey, New York or Rhode Island. All must submit online health form $500 fine for non-compliance. Second option: Covid-19 test taken in the past 72 hours or to take a test upon arrival and quarantine until the results come through.
District of Columbia: visiting from high risk states for more than 24 hours must show a negative Covid-19 test no more than 72 hours prior. If longer than a three day stay, another test must be done three to five days after arrival. High-risk states are categorized as those having more than 10 daily Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people. An interactive map complied by The New York Times shows which districts and regions meet this threshold. Travelers from Maryland and Virginia are exempt.
Hawaii: 10-day quarantine unless a negative nucleic acid amplification test results (NAAT)–taken at an approved site–in hand upon arrival or uploaded – health form online. A QR code rquired to be given to airport screeners upon arrival. At least 25% of arriving passengers will be randomly selected for a free, second, rapid Covid-19 test at the airport. Travelers must stay for results to come through before they leave.
Kauai County, must go into quarantine for 10 days unless heading into a “resort bubble”; those staying at specific hotels can arrive with a negative PCR test, head directly to their resort upon arrival, tested onsite, two to three days later. They will remain in quarantine during their stay.
Illinois: no statewide quarantine orders. Chicago has a 10 day quarantine mandate or COVID test within 72 hours of traveling for Non-residents, arrivals into Chicago are categorized into two groups, orange and yellow, based on the infection rates in the home states.
Kansas: mandatory 10 day quarantine is needed for anyone who has:
- taken a sea/river cruise since 3/25/2020
- attended out-of-state mass gathering >500 people (masks not worn and unable to keep further than 6 feet apart).
One can ‘test out’ of a 10-day quarantine on day 6 of quarantine and released on day 8 with a negative result (instead of day 11).
Kentucky: 14-day quarantine is recommended for visitors and returning residents.
Maine: 10-day quarantine or negative Covid-19 test in the past 72 hours. Arrivals w/ pending tests must isolate until results obtained. All types of Covid-19 tests accepted. Arrivals must sign a Certificate of Compliance.
Maryland: quarantine for 10 days or negative Covid-19 test taken up to 72 hours before arrival. Visitors advised to re-test 72 hours later. Travelers arriving from Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, D.C. are exempt. Those failing to conform will face a $5,000 fine or a year in prison.
Massachusetts: update 3/8 arrivals must fill in a travel form. Arrivals from high-risk states- quarantine for 10 days or produce a negative Covid-19 test taken within the last 72 hours. The fine for non-compliance is $500 per day. Hawaii, Missouri, Oregon, Washington and Puerto Rico currently listed low-risk states.
Minnesota: 14 day quarantine upon entry (or re-entry), out-of-state travel is discouraged.
New Hampshire: If arriving from other than a New England state (Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island), travelers are asked to quarantine for 10 days. After seven days, travelers can ‘test out’ with a negative PCR test. Exemption for anyone who has had the second Covid-19 vaccine more than 14 days prior to travel–no need to get tested or quarantine. Those who had Covid-19 more than 90 days prior to travel and are recovered (and have proof) are also exempt.
New Jersey: currently advising against all non-essential interstate travel. Visitors and returning travelers must quarantine for 10 days if not tested. Those with a negative test are asked to isolate for 7 days. Travel from New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware is exempt. All other travelers must complete an online survey.
New Mexico: quarantine for 14 days or the entire length of stay.
New York: update 3/8 fully-vaccinated travelers who received the final dose of their vaccine within the preceding 90 days are exempt from quarantine and testing rules
Those arriving from a non-bordering state (New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware) are exempted. 14-day quarantine, visitors can ‘test out’ to a 3 day quarantine with a negative test taken 72 hours before arrival. Travelers with negative results from second test taken on day four may leave quarantine.
All visitors must fill out a Traveler Health Form, non compliance with regulations, face a fine of up to $10,000 Those who leave New York for less than 24 hours do not need to get a test before returning, nor do they need to quarantine. They must get a Covid-19 test on the fourth day back.
Ohio: restricting travel from states with a 15% positive testing rate, requires self-quarantine for 14 days; this currently includes–Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Texas.
Oregon: 14-day quarantine Non-essential travel and tourism is ill-advised.
Pennsylvania: update 3/8 Travelers no longer required to quarantine for 10 days or supply negative test results for entry.
Rhode Island: 14 day quarantine if arriving from states with a >5% positive testing rate. Exemption for negative Covid-19 test taken in the last 72 hours. Exception doesn’t apply to international travelers. Travelers must complete a certificate of compliance and a travel screening form. Travelers may take a test upon arrival and quarantine until negative Covid-19 test result is obtained.
update 3/8 The updated spreadsheet currently lists Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
No exemption for those having Covid-19 vaccination. Those that have had Covid-19 in the past 90 days and completed isolation periods, are exempted.
Vermont: 14 day quarantine Visitors can end the quarantine after 7 days with proof of a negative Covid-19 test. Those arriving by car or plane (as well as rental cars) can complete quarantine and testing in another state before arriving. Those staying in short-term rental or lodging and campsites must submit a certificate of compliance or an online compliance statement when they check-in.
States that currently have no travel restrictions: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (Pitkin County requires a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival), Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana (although visitors to the seven Indian reservations should check), Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota (some roads through Native American reservations are closed), Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
Washington State: 14-day quarantine
Canada– US Border currently closed to all non-essential travel https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/covid/non-canadians-canadiens-eng.html#er1
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Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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