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Posts Tagged ‘Hunting’


(From Left to Right): FML Outdoors Editor Scott Nelson, Brad Finstad — Chief author and negotiator of the bill to authorize the building of Minnesota Twins ballpark — Target Field, and U.S. Congressman Erik Paulsen

Le Sueur, MN

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Jacob McIntosh reflects on today’s weather as hunters prepare
for Opening Deer Hunting.

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Chasin’ Tail – Premier

Join FML Outdoors Pro Staff writer Jacob McIntosh and brother Justin, both avid hunters living in northern Minnesota, as they bring us closer to the action with daily video reports from the Northwoods called, “Chasin’ Tail.”

See and hear weather reports, learn about deer movements and watch daily trail camera activity, so you can be better prepare for this opening deer season!

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It’s pretty tough to beat a beautiful fall day on the grouse trail with great companionship in the likes of your best four-legged and two-legged hunting buddies. It’s even nicer when the birds are cooperating! Well that’s just exactly what many hunters across Minnesota are experiencing. For many hunters, ruffed grouse hunting is much like a right of passage. The sound of a flushing grouse is unmistakable and once heard — unforgettable! Many hunters can look back and recall the early years of their hunting career beginning with a pocket full of shotgun shells, walking along-side Dad down old logging roads and trails in hopes of bagging this elusive bird.

So far this season, wonderful weather coupled with birds at near peak population has kept many hunters returning to the woods and putting miles under their boots.

Successful reports are coming in from all over the state on both private and public lands.

Hunters are experiencing especially great numbers in the northland, with some local hunters near Duluth reporting upwards of 30 flushes a day! One popular hotspot seems to be the Canosia WMA, with many hunters reporting success on its extensive trail system. Those taking advantage of public trails along the north shore — all the way to Grand Marais are burning powder, spraying pellets and walking back to their vehicle feeling prosperous!

My golden retriever Gunnar and I have hit the trails in both St.Louis and Carlton county and haven’t had to put too much leg work in before flushing birds. We experienced great numbers of grouse and woodcock last season and so far this year is shaping up to be a good as well!

Considering the Ruffed Grouse ten-year population cycle and hunter success this season, now is the time to get out and enjoy the large constellation of upland birds!

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With the archery season in full swing and the firearms season not far behind, a great number of deer hunters will be taking to the trees in hopes of bagging that big buck! Deer hunting is an extremely exciting pursuit, and it is easy to get caught up in all that excitement, preparation, and pursuit. While we focus so intently on the different aspect of the hunt, one of the most important things we cannot afford to overlook is safety!

An estimated 1 in 3 deer hunters will experience a fall.

If you are one of those hunters who risk climbing a  tree without a safety harness, perhaps you have already had a breathtaking experience? Thousands of hunters each year, all across the country, are involved in tree stand related injuries. These injuries can result in permanent paralysis and even death.

One of the most important and wisest investments a deer hunter can make is in a TMA certified, full body safety harness. Safety harnesses and vests have come a long way and now offer hunter’s a wide range of comfortable, easy-to-use models.

Research shows that the majority of accidents occur while climbing into or out of the stand. Many harness manufactures also make safety lines and devices geared toward preventing these types of falls as well. Safety harnesses are a great way for seasoned pros and youngsters alike to feel confident and safe!

Remember – it’s important to follow all manufacturer guidelines with all tree stands and safety harnesses as well.

So, in all the excitement that surrounds getting into the woods after that big buck, remember one of the most important aspects — getting home! So have fun, be safe and good huntin’!

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Prepare for real-world encounters

Now that Minnesota’s and Wisconsin’s bow hunting seasons are underway, thousands of archers will take to the woods in pursuit of North America’s most popular game animal — the whitetail deer! For those of us who just can’t get enough hunting, the bow season is a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of this time of year.

Archery season affords us the luxury of enjoying over three months of pursuing our passion — all the while, enjoying some of the best weather and scenery the year has to offer. Even though the season has begun, it’s important to reflect on the skills and preparation required, because you can drastically increase your chances of success by preparing for it properly.

Practice, practice, practice!

There is a big difference between target shooting and bowhunting. If you want to better your chances for closing-the-deal, you need to prepare specifically for those types of situations.

One of the most important and beneficial things to have in your archery arsenal is Confidence! The only way to achieve this is through practice and preparation! (more…)

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I’m pleased to welcome Jacob McIntosh as our contributing writer. Jacob has extensive hunting and fishing experience and will write about his adventures living in Northern Minnesota. I hear he has video and his family are great cooks! I’m looking forward to reading what Jacob comes up with! — FML Outdoors Editor, Scott Nelson

It’s That Time of the Year

With summer already on it last leg for the year and fall right around the corner, many outdoor enthusiasts are beginning to switch gears. Although there is still plenty of time to enjoy the warm weather, open water and all the fun that summer offers, I’ve noticed many (including myself ) starting to transition from summer mode to fall mode. Our thoughts and daydreams have gone from watching bobbers disappear beneath the water and tight-lining walleyes to falling leaves, cool temperatures, migrating waterfowl and if you’re a deer hunting fanatic like me, of course, big mature whitetail bucks chasing does up and down ridges on frosty November mornings.

My Obsession for Nature

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved nature and being outdoors. Like so many outdoorsman, I particularly love to hunt and fish. In fact, I will openly admit that I am a full-blown, 100% whitetail obsessed addict! Couple this with the deep passion for bowhunting and it really turns into a year-round pursuit. Lucky for me, my brother shares the same passion that I do!

Introduced to the outdoors by our father, we grew up in the woods and on the water and were hooked from the words “Bobbers-down!” Still, I don’t think that even my dad, or us for that matter, could have predicted the love we would have for it all and the wild obsession that it would grow into!

(more…)

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My black lab, James is a little over a year old. Some say a great age to learn basic obedience, but perhaps too young to hunt. Waiting until he is closer to two for field training is best.

In looking for ways to train myself, I came across a book called, All Dogs Need Some Training by Liz Palika.

Besides learning basic commands for your dog, she also includes very simple exercises dog’s will be eager to learn. Chapter 8 has some good games for dogs. Liz shares helpful thoughts on how dogs perceive owners and vice versa. Thanks, Liz! Great book!

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“Passionate about Hunting”

Chad and Jodi Hines of Willow Creek Kennels, located just outside
Little Falls, MN are doing things right!

These two lovebirds, grew up loving and training dogs! Now — husband and wife team, putting their passion to work, the two have created a one-of-a-kind gun dog training facility, as well as game hunting preserve!

Back in 2008, my German Wirehaired Pointer received her first gun training at Willow Creek Kennels. After 4 weeks, my dog came home knowing exactly what to do! She even hunts ducks! This is because Chad took the time to introduce Abby to waterfowl, as well as upland game.

Today, when my dog Abby is not in the field, she’s hiding stuff in the backyard and then pretending to find it! Perhaps this wasn’t part of her training…but after visiting with Willow Creek Kennel’s skillful trainers…You’ll soon understand how serious they are about your young pup and providing the right start!

You can learn more about Willow Creek Kennels by clicking here! Tell’em Fat Man’s Landing sent you!

Little Falls, MN

Abby is a German Wirehaired Pointer

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Preparing For Hunting Starts at Home

The hunting season has ended and it’s time to collect piles of camouflage and blaze orange laying on the floor and behind the seat of your truck. You’ve listen to complaints from your spouse all season-long, and finally — you decided it’s time to pick up your gear! Sound familiar? This scene is repeated daily in many hunting households.

Hunting apparel is an investment

Before you purchase your next jacket, I want to share with you simple advice that will keep your investment long-lasting and in great shape. (more…)

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rickdeer

“Personal Best!” (Archery)

It was mid-afternoon, the day before opening rifle season, when Rick connected with a nice 6-point buck. At deer camp, everyone was anxious for Saturday’s morning hunt. Congratulations Rick!

Makinen, MN

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Madeline Loves to Hunt

Madeline Loves to Hunt

I have fond memories growing up and spending time outdoors with my father.

Every weekend, we would either go hunting, fishing or camping. I intend to express the same level of energy, time and love with my daughter.

I remember walking for pheasants on a warm fall day as geese speckled the sky and the wind pushed across the country-side as to say, “It’s time to go.”

I’d lay in the tall grass and eat from the paper bag the hunter’s lunch my father prepared. Can you guess what was in the bag? Always, was there, a Snickers® or Butterfinger®, along with an apple and some kind of sandwich.

I now have the same responsibility and excuse to go outside with my daughter and to teach her the respect and admiration for what God has given us.

I never wished for my father to spend
more time on the couch.

It’s easy to get caught up in everyday things and I realize I must plan ahead. For when I look back, it was those times with my father, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, did I realize there’s is more to life than work, shopping and television.

I love the outdoors and I love my daughter. It’s time to explore and go create more memorable moments that she will soon share with her own children.

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It was a great trip last weekend! I can’t believe I was still able to travel after being up most the night for my 40th birthday party! That too was a wonderful time and I appreciate everyone’s partake in the celebration.

Scott K. and I traveled to Windom, MN last Saturday as we always do this time of the year. It’s pheasant hunting at it’s prime. We met-up with Adam, Derek, Eric, Josh, and Tony at a little motel near the end of town. It takes about an hour and forty-five minute to drive from the cities. That first cup of coffee and the excitement of being in the field kept us awake.

Pheasant

pheasant

After a bite to eat at Micky D’s we were off to one of the local Wildlife Management Areas. We didn’t get too far out of town and I spotted a rooster in the ditch. We pulled off the road and quickly got out our guns. Abby and I walked to where I saw the pheasant. As we drew closer, it launched in a flurry of feathers and laughed with a cackle, as I got three quick shots off. It didn’t look like I hit it, but as the bird flew away it hit one of the power lines and fell to the ground. I couldn’t believe it! I walked over and picked it up — my first pheasant of the day!

I ended up shooting six rooster, but only recovering three. It was a great trip and we’ll do it again next year!

Oh, by the way…we didn’t hunt Sunday, because most of the crew was hung-over from parting the night before at the Phat Pheasant Steak House and Saloon. Hey Derek! Did you have the Phat Pheasant? How was it?

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