|
|
Joined: 5/9/2007
Posts: 70
|
Want to meet Melissa? “NAH-TV’s” newest star takes aim at big game around the world with bow, gun and camera. This forum is your chance to chat with Melissa online and ask her questions about hunting, the glamorous life of a TV personality and the not-so-glamorous life of a TV photojournalist and producer. Long hours. Hard work.
Also, ask Melissa questions about hunting tactics, trips and techniques. Melissa will be busy hunting, shooting and working, so she will try to respond to as many questions as possible. Please keep in mind this is not a live or even a daily chat; there might be stretches of several days that Melissa can not answer your questions. Your questions will not go live immediately, either. They will pass through a moderator before going live on the site. Thank you for your patience.
We hope you enjoy this unique opportunity to chat with a rising star in the hunting world!
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 458
|
Welcome Melissa, you are a great addition to NA Hunter.
This question is to you as a hunter and producer, how do you determine where, and who to hunt with for each hunting trip you take. Is it always trophy, as many believe it is better TV, or are the hunts donated by outfitters and owners who are looking for visibility?
An interesting hunting segment/theme that has not been attempted by any hunting show(Roadtrips only goes to big trophy states), is to try to hunt or fish every state, or unusual state, to show what the common hunter must do to be successful. Given your production and camera skills, could still make for good TV.
Again great to see you on TV, not enough young women on hunting shows. It's great to see you opening the hunting world to women too.
Best,
Jim Given
Take your kids hunting before you have to hunt for you kids!!!
|
|
Joined: 6/30/2008
Posts: 13
|
Welcome Melissa, looking foreword to reading what others have to ask. And your replies.
My question kinda goes along with Jim's comments.
Why are there not any shows showing what its like to hunt in "high pressure" areas? I live in WV, your lucky to see an 8 point. And more rare to see a 10. Why not have a show showing some of the more difficult places to hunt. Maybe even help some of us mature hunters with a few pointers that maybe we have over looked?
Lee
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
Thanks for the welcome, Jim and Lee. I'm looking forward to chatting with you and other NAHC members soon here. I'm just finishing editing an episode of NAH-TV, then tomorrow I head out to Manitoba for a hunting shoot.
More later.
Melissa
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
At North American, we generally come up with a "wish list" or a list of what species or states we would like to hunt. We then try to pick various locations within those states based on what type of story we can get out of the hunt.
Obviously a high success rate is a bonus, but often times we are more interested in the story. Trophies make for good TV, but people & their stories is what makes great TV. We use a variety of outfitters that come from recommendations along the road and also from people we meet along the way.
One thing many people forget about TV is the long hours that are never seen by the viewer. By no means is every hunt successful; this is a huge misconception. Many people believe everything is a slam dunk because we are filming for television. I am here to tell you that is not the case! Archery hunting for example is generally much more difficult because you have two people in the tree. Double the scent, double the movement, and double the chance of being busted.
This October we are planning on doing some public land hunts for North American Hunter TV. As producers, we all met and decided that a great twist would be to hunt high pressure land such as public land here in MN that everyone has a crack at. The story would be following one of our hunters from start to finish showing the average hunter how you can make the best out of whatever hunting situation you have.
Tips such as going to your local DNR office, obtaining maps of the public land, and putting in your time scouting can make for a great story a feeling of true accomplishment. Make sure to check out North American Hunter next season to see if we completed this goal. I hope we can show every hunter out there that with a little work and a few tricks you can find a trophy in any part of the US regardless of hunting pressure or location.
|
|
Joined: 8/7/2008
Posts: 28
|
Hey there Melissa!! Glad to "meet"you. I guess me question/thoughts run close to the same as the others, most hunts I see on T.V. are in some remote area or a private ranch where there are several B&C bucks walking past stands that are nicer than some apartments I had when I was younger. Here in Wisconsin we have 750,000 people(believe me they aren't all hunters)hitting the woods for a 9 day rifle season.I'm fortunate to have a small piece of private land to hunt,but alot of folks have to use the public areas.My piece is surrounded by state land and opening day is anything but peaceful. It is nice to watch and dream about "hunt of a lifetime"shows,but it might be refreshing to see Bill,Larry,and yourself out in this neck of the woods in a situation similar to mine. I'd also enjoy more waterfowl shows,also set in an area that's not a managed marsh or the Arkansas timber. Come on up,bring your waders and jumpshoot Woodducks and Mallards on the creeks.It's challenging and exciting. Well, just my thoughts,I'll keep watching either way. Keep up the good work! Henry
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 1285
|
Hello Melissa, Thnks for taking the time to stop by and talk with all of us. Many times in the rush to get the information gathered and out to the club members, it seems as though the club memebrs are sometimes secondary to getting the job done. We know this is not the case and that it is a difficult job with a couple million or so bosses er members to please. Don't sweat it though, your doing a great job. My question is this. Do you get the chance to meet and chat with members very often on your travels??? You know, the regular guy or gal that make up the major part of our club. As a life member for many years, I have had the chance to meet alot of folks through the board and in person. The folks here are great too. Solid friends through the thick and thin of life. Trust me, I've seen it and been the recipient of it first hand. I wouldn't trade these friendships for anything in the world. I hope you are able to take the time in your travels and stop for a breather and get to know a few of the folks here in the club. If your ever down towards the NW Louisiana area, give me a hollar, I'll be glad to show you the area a bit and even let you make your own call if you like. Thanks again for stopping in and I hope to read and see more of your advntures in the future. I also hope you get to visit with a few members as you travel.
BRIKATW
Brian Warner
Heirloom Turkey Calls/Heirloom Game Calls
http://heirloomturkeycalls.com/
http://heirloomgamecalls.com/
http://heirloomcalls.com
Disabled Veteren/Cancer Survivor/Addison's Bumpa/
God Speed to ALL the men and women who freely pay the price everyday for OUR freedoms
|
|
Joined: 9/25/2007
Posts: 930
|
Melissa, first, welcome to the boards. I agree with you on the fact that public hunting is a little crowded at times and hard to hunt. Unless you do some pre-scouting by phone first. I found just such a spot in 1996 in Indiana. It was off the beaten path. No other hunter ventured in that part of the forestry. To bad. I had a 17 pt'r walk past me at 10 yds during bow season. I didn't get the chance to arrow that buck but during gun season, I let my friend us my stand and he got him! A lot of folks don't think to use the phone before scouting on foot. It's an often overlooked part of hunting. I'm looking forward to watching the tv show. Thank you for answering our questions and once again, welcome to the boards!
P.S. Do you have any plans for a still hunt or hunt from a ground blind for deer, etc? Have a great season and be careful out there.
|
|
Joined: 9/19/2007
Posts: 664
|
Welcome aboard Melissa! I am looking forward to seeing all the questions and the responses that you have to those questions. Also, I am glad that there are some women being given the chance for their own hunting shows. I have a couple questions at this time that I would like to ask. 1) Here in Pennsylvania there are limited places to hunt that are open for hunters due to rapid development. Most of the public access is State Game Lands. My question is: As a hunter and proucer of a hunting show, what advice do you have for those of us who are facing limited public access for hunting? I do have to admit the State Game Commission is trying to increase the available acreage that is open to the public. 2) For those hunters who have limited mobility or who use a wheelchair or other such means to get around, Are there any organizations or groups that help those hunters to access either public land or private land to be able to hunt? Reason I am asking is my dad had a back operation for a herniated disc and now has problems walking without the use of a brace on his left leg and using a walker and he is 78 years young. Without his brace his leftfoot will turn inward and will dip down thus causing him to rip and loose his balance and fall. He still wants to hunt but because of his leg and foot he has problems getting around in the woods. I look forward to your response. Thank you.
|
|
Joined: 9/23/2007
Posts: 7
|
Glad to hear you are planning a public land hunting segment. My hunting buddy and I have always said that is what TV needs. Because the average guy can't afford to pay an outfitter. Many don't even have any access to private land of any kind and are forced to hunt the high pressure areas on public land. Hope to see more of those kind of shows.
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 458
|
Melissa, I think most of the people on this board, and those you speak with are the norm, as having to hunt on public land, and not have the opportunity to hunt the kind of dream hunts you are a part of. If you ask any hunter here, I am sure you would see that we understand the long time put into any decent hunt and the success/failure inherently involved. What you will hear most often mentioned on this BB is that what is most remembered and cherished is the experience with the people you hunt with, this will be remembered much longer than the 6-10pt buck or whatever game animal you were after.
It already sounds like you and those you work with may already have a clue about that….character goes along way. Any way, what a job….think most here would give up their day job in a split second to do what you do. Now also most of us probably would not fit your vision of a TV host except as comic relief.
I commend your segment choice this October to do a show on a public land hunt, I think this will be one of your most popular shows. The tips and tricks to help all of us have better success is much welcomed. I also have to go back to my original theme suggestion of doing this in many more States in the US that are overlooked/hunted etc….East coast too, try NJ or Pa, for some real hunting pressure and public land fun.
Have a great Labor Day Weekend.
Jim Given
Take your kids hunting before you have to hunt for you kids!!!
|
|
Joined: 6/30/2008
Posts: 213
|
Welcome :) I agree that the public land segment should be interesting. Many of the giant racked bucks seen on televised hunts seem way beyond the time and budget many hunters have. I am far more likely to watch every detail of a free range hunt (especially a doe harvest) than I am to sit through yet another huge racked, ranch raised, and routinely fed buck. The smaller racked bucks and does just seem more believeable than seeing the buck of a lifetime taken time after time.
"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37, verse 4.
|
|
Joined: 8/19/2008
Posts: 988
|
Welcome Melissa! I too am new to the NAHC and I love being a part of it.I wish you many good seasons to come. HUNT 'EM UP!
|
|
Joined: 9/17/2007
Posts: 2032
|
Greetings and Welcome! I for one would like to hear about your background. Where are you from? How did you get into hunting? Where did you hunt most often when you began? What do you enjoy hunting most? What do you hunt besides deer? What rifles, shotguns and cartridges do you shoot? These are the things I like to discuss with any new hunting aquaintance I make. I think it would be great to watch a hunting show that gets into the details of the equipment used as well. Why this rifle, load and scope for example. Many of the questions on this board are about equipment and loads. A show that gets into the "why" of the equipment choices would be a better show in my opinion. It's quite common in magazine articles, but lacking in hunting shows. I look forward to your upcoming shows and future adventures on NAH-TV. If you want a real challenging hunt, I invite you to try your luck here in New Jersey. Lots of deer, some real big too, but lots of hunters as well. Public land can be good but a real challenge. Private land can be Fantastic if you can get access. Good Hunting!
God does not subtract from your lifetime, the hours spent hunting and fishing!
Never shoot at game that can be hit. Always shoot at game that can not be missed!
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 96
|
Hey Melissa, Welcome, we're glad to have ya! I would like to suggest a show in East Texas instead of the south or hillcountry. let viewers know there's another side to Texas with plenty of good hunting! Thanks & God bless!
Life member NAHC, NRA, NWTF, ,R.M.E.F,NorthEast Texas Outdoors, Cherokee Nation, and Melissa, Taylor, and Kole's Dad! John 3:16, Romans 8:28 Never slap a man who's chewing tobacco. Will Rogers
|
|
Joined: 4/2/2008
Posts: 54
|
Hi Melissa, Two things I'd watch 1.) a show on how to improve your current hunting property 2.) How to hunt areas where Trees and cover can be difficult, with a bow
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
In regards to hunting out of fancy stands...there are times we have the luxury to sit in nice hunting condos, but most of the time we are out braving the weather just like everyone else. Condos can be effective because they allow you to sit longer in cold weather, and let's face it everyone loves to get out of the wind and rain when the weather turns nasty.
We generally do 1-2 waterfowl hunts a year, but we keep most of our hunts focused on big game. I will keep your place in mind if we are looking for a great hunt...thanks for the invite!
Through my travels the past few years I have met people from the hunting club on almost every single trip. I've met people in the airport, in camps, on planes, at sport shows...it always makes me smile to see someone walking with a North American Hunting Club coat on. Sharing stories & meeting people is what makes the travel so much fun...not to mention a trophy here and there.
|
|
Joined: 8/7/2008
Posts: 28
|
Hi again Melissa! I agree that the majority of the NAH-TV's shows do have the hunters out in the weather more than the rest. I was commenting in general about the state of outdoor programs I've seen lately,the "expert" in a tree house,talking,moving around,gun waving around out the window,and yet 3or 4 B&C bucks mill around 75 yards away. Just not realistic. The NAH-TV gang has done an excellent job staying away from shows like that. Thank You!!
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
If you are faced with limited hunting access public land can be a great option, although often times very crowded. Remember that many people hunt the fringes, near roads, parking areas, and there will be a lot less pressure and fewer hunters the further into the property you travel.
This also means you will need to look for larger pieces of public land. If you are able to walk, get out and do some pre-scouting prior to the season. Look for bedding areas, food sources, and travel corridors that will be helpful when the hunting season comes.
Also don't be afraid to ask the local Conservation Officers for any tips on new public areas or low pressured spots that people may be unaware of. In years past I have done a lot of hunting on public lands, with great success...but you need to be selective and do your research.
|
|
Joined: 5/28/2008
Posts: 37
|
Hi Melissa, I just wanted to say thank you for what you do. It is good to see a young lady as yourself getting out there and showing the world that women make just as good of hunters as men. It is also good that you are giving the young girls a role model to look up to. I was wondering I have been in the Navy for 17 years and I need to start thinking about my "retirement" job. How do I get a job as a professional hunter or fisheman? I would love to be able to make a living doing what you do. Joel
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hoyt Katera, NAP Quicktune rest, Axis Site, and Easton FMJ Arrows.
Remington 700ML, Remington 870 Express 12 Ga. (A Benelli Super Black Eagle II is on my wish list)
NAHC Life member Since 12/04/1996
|
|
Joined: 9/20/2007
Posts: 25
|
Melissa, With a great job (outstanding) like the one you have, what do you do for relaxation or "regular people" entertainment? Good to have you on our page and I hope to catch a show soon.
"Every man dies, not every man really lives." Braveheart
|
|
Joined: 9/6/2008
Posts: 1
|
How do you go about getting invloved in something like what you do?
|
|
Joined: 9/17/2007
Posts: 106
|
Hi Melissa, and welcome. I've been a Life Member here for quite a few years. I hunt Deer, Turkey, Rabbit, and Squirrel. I hunt with bow, shotgun, muzzleloader and rifle, but mostly with Handgun. I truly miss articles from writers like Elmer Keith, and would really love to see more handgun hunts on television. Not just a Thompson Encore commercial, but hunters shooting Ruger Blackhawks,(my preferred choice), S&W, etc. If you have a lack of "experts" with these weapons, please allow me to offer my services, as I would be very happy to have you fly me out to one of these great locations like Texas, Kansas, Alaska, to film a REAL club member harvesting a trophy animal. I look forward to your answer, and again, welcome to NAHC and these boards.
Lt. YFD, LM NAHC, LM NAFC, Patron Member NRA, Reg. Member Black Rock Fish and Game Club-
Huntin' & Fishin', Fishin' & Huntin'...
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
I grew up in a small town in central Minnesota hunting and fishing with my family for as long as I can remember. My parents made a point to take my brother and I with them on almost every trip and we both quickly caught the hunting bug. Hunting and fishing became something we did together as a family creating a lifetime of memories.
I started out hunting whitetails, pheasants, and ducks. My parents made me wait until I was 12 and had completed hunter’s safety before ever hunting myself. I was always by their side either in the tree stand or duck blind but was never able to fire a shot until 12. In many ways I think this was good because it gave me something to look forward to. I do worry that making kids wait until 12-years-old poses a risk of losing them completely, but it also gives them something to look forward to.
The first year I was able to deer hunt, I could hardly sleep the night before. I still remember drawing out little maps of our land with my game plan scribbled in. First, I would sit on the tree line, if I found no success there I planned to walk the thick brush on the back of our property...etc. The plans worked and I was able to harvest a "small doe" aka fawn, but it was only the start of my love for whitetail hunting.
Overall, hunting whitetails has become my passion but the sport of hunting, especially with a bow, has become my life. I still make a point to do a few firearm hunts each year, and throw in tarpon or pike trips when possible.
I graduated from St. Cloud State University with a double major in TV Broadcasting & Spanish. My original goal was to become an evening news anchor, but then I found a job opening to die for. North American Hunter had an opening for a producer which combined exactly what I went to school for, and would help satisfy my ever-growing passion for hunting. I applied for the job, but due to my lack of prior experience another producer was hired.
I went home that night thinking long and hard and made a call the following day to see if they would be interested in letting me intern at the company. I was finished with college, but I knew there was only one way to get the experience I needed, and that was to work for free. I put in my time, but, more importantly, got the hands-on experience I needed. Within a few months I was hired as a full-time employee and have been traveling the world hunting and fishing for almost two years now.
My goal was to not only be a producer, but someday advance to an on-air host. This was made possible by many long hours in the field. I spent a total of 96 days in the field last fall alone. Many of those days were spent producing NAH-TV, but every day not on the job was spent hunting on my own time.
This dedication is what allowed for my first show to air. I arrowed a 200-inch buck in Illinois on film to get the ball rolling. Since then, I also took my first archery bear in Quebec for NAH, and have several on air hunts planned this fall. I was always told if you want something bad enough and are willing to work for it; no goal is too high. I consider myself one of the luckiest people out there, not only am I getting to hunt all over, but I'm able to hunt & film with some of the best in the industry.
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 1285
|
What a GREAT example you are to our younger, up and coming hunters. You are not only talking the talk but you are walking the walk Melissa. You said you had a total of 96 days in the feild last fall, that is great, I had about 6 - 9 days in the feild last fall and about the same,including drive time for spring turkey. But it is the price we have to pay to make our dreams come true. My dream of providing the regular hunter out there, with as good or better game call as any other and with the handmade quality they deserve started when I was recovering from cancer, and it demands that I spend as much time working in the shop getting those calls just right as it takes to get them "JUST RIGHT". Your dream demands that you be out in the woods hunting. Demonstrating that ANYONE can get the game. ANYONE can acheive their dream. All you have to do is WORK at it, BELIEVE in yourself and have FAITH. As I've heard said before on the TV..."YOU GO GIRL". I truly hope you can achieve your dreams fully and better yet share them with us as you go along. Your doing a fine job at it so far. Hollar at me if you need a call. I'll get you hooked up. I just happen to know a guy that makes some REALLY great calls for deer, turkey, preditors and such. ;-)
BRIKATW
Brian Warner
Heirloom Turkey Calls/Heirloom Game Calls
http://heirloomturkeycalls.com/
http://heirloomgamecalls.com/
http://heirloomcalls.com
Disabled Veteren/Cancer Survivor/Addison's Bumpa/
God Speed to ALL the men and women who freely pay the price everyday for OUR freedoms
|
|
Joined: 8/6/2008
Posts: 3
|
welcome melissa i have a hunting question im looking at buying a savage 25-06 and im wanting to use it for deer and coyotes but im having a problem with ammo want a round that i can use for both so i dont have to resight in evertime iv been told that 80 gr is good for coyotes and 120 gr is good for deer would there be a happy medium thank you huntcrazy38
|
|
Joined: 9/17/2007
Posts: 2032
|
Now that is about the best "Great American Success" story I have ever had the pleasure to read.
God does not subtract from your lifetime, the hours spent hunting and fishing!
Never shoot at game that can be hit. Always shoot at game that can not be missed!
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
We have found that ground blinds make for great TV and a great hunt. It really gives the audience an eye level experience which can be much more intense than watching a deer from 20 feet in the air.
The only challenge with using ground blinds is the setup. You really need to put them up early so the deer can get accustomed to them. Scent can also be tricky at times when you're on the ground, but what you gain in terms of movement is priceless. A ground blind allows for much more movement than a tree stand and as long as you have the windows darkened behind you, all deer see is a black hole.
Having a camera in the field is difficult, but if you think about what it takes to film from a tree...tree arms, tripod heads, microphone holders, all this needs to be raised and lowered from the tree each morning and evening. This not only adds extra time to your hunt, but a lot of extra noise and stress.
I will tell you from experience hanging tree arms in the dark is no picnic. Everything is metal and every little movement makes a big noise. Overall we do our best to switch up our hunts from ground blinds to tree stands to still hunting, trying to keep a little variety in our shows.
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
The question of what I do for relaxation or "regular people” entertainment is really quite easy. What I do for work is also what I do for fun. I hunt, fish, travel, and spend a lot of time preparing for the next season's adventures both at work and on my vacation time. The only difference is on my days off I try to spend as much time with my family & friends in the field as possible.
I've always joked I ALMOST have the perfect job, currently I am able to hunt, fish, & travel for a living which is 3 out of my 4 favorite things to do, but my job is missing one very important thing. Shopping. I love to be outdoors but I also love to shop. The worst part of it is you can put me in any store from Gander Mountain to Nordstrom’s and I am in heaven. I don't have favorites...I'm an equal opportunity shopper. I love to shop for shoes, purses, jeans, jewelry, bows, hunting clothes, electronics, gadgets...you name it I enjoy shopping for it.
But everyone knows you can't have everything...so I guess 3 out of 4 isn't too bad. Although if anyone knows of a specific job where all 4 can be combined into one don't hesitate to fill me in :)
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 32
|
Well maybe you could ask the top dogs about doing a segment on all the outdoor stores. Some of those stores have so many choices that you often times end up being totally confused. It would be nice to know more about all those products. Then you could be 4 for4! I would like to thank you for taking the time to spend with us. In fact you are one of us! Good luck to ya in the future!
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 458
|
Melissa....think Cochise has got something there for you. Many things in the big hunting stores you could make a segment about. Hunting on a dime, best products from the 20 or so look a likes etc. Have not seen that, but maybe because of advertising.
Melissa I have to say you deserve to have the position you have... Fantastic story. I hardly ever see that anymore on wall street where I work. Hope my daughter grows up just like you.
Best,
Jim
Take your kids hunting before you have to hunt for you kids!!!
|
|
Joined: 9/19/2007
Posts: 539
|
Hi and welcome Melissa. I am sorry to say I have not seen your show, I cannot get it on my cable. You seem like a real breath of fresh air in our hunting and fishing sport. I have a question that may not get a full answer as you may see. Do you pick your sponsors by your faith in their products or do they pick you to sponsor their products regardless of your personal opinion. Also can I be an honorary grandfather. You sound like just the kind of daughter/granddaughter most of us guys only dream of having in our families. One more question. Are you going to invite Sarah Palin to a hunt with you any time soon.
|
|
Joined: 9/26/2007
Posts: 9
|
Hi Melissa, Thank you. You said something earlier that spoke to me. My daughter is 10 and my sons are 8 and 7 and have spent most of their lives watching hunting and fishing on TV with me - mostly hunting. We used to live in Corcoran, MN. My daughter really wants to go on a hunting trip with me. I am so glad to see more women in the hunting world as role models for her. When you mentioned the wait until 12 thing, it struck me like a brick because that is exactly what I have been doing with her. I have been waiting for hunter safety and the legal age to hunt instead of focusing on increasing her interest through participation. Thank you for turning on the light... It's time to get her out in the field with me...Opening Day
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
My suggestion in regards to huntcrazy's question on what rounds can be used for a .25-06 that would be effective on both coyotes and deer without re-sighting in would be to try both rounds and compare the difference at normal shooting ranges.
For instance a .25-06 Federal 85 grain Nosler Balastic Tip would have a drop of 1.8 inches at 200 yards. The 115-grain Nosler Partition in comparison would have a 3-inch drop at 200. That’s only a little over an inch difference out to 200 yards.
Once you get out to 300 yards you are looking at a little over a 3-inch drop between these bullets. If this is too much of a difference stick with the heavier bullet for both coyotes and deer to ensure you’re never under-gunned.
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
A NAHC member from Pennsylvania submitted a question in regards to available assistance for hunters with limited mobility. After a little research I found that in his home state of Pennsylvania various groups have joined together to improve access to over 650 acres of public hunting land near Woodcock Dam in Crawford County. They’ve added a new parking lot and access lane making it much easier for everyone, especially those with limited mobility.
There are also many organizations that dedicate tags, land & and assistance to hunters who have limited mobility or are physically disabled. Although there are many great organizations to help, I believe the best assistance anyone can get is from family & and friends if possible.
My great-grandfather hunted with my family for many years...up until he was well into his 80's! We setup a couch in the field for him to sit comfortably during deer season, driving him right to his “stand”. He didn't kill any deer that I can remember but the memories in the field will never be forgotten.
He would usually arrive at our house before our alarms even sounded. His excuse was always the same; he was just too excited to sleep and wanted to get the coffee started. Watching the twinkle that developed in his eyes as deer hunting drew near was priceless. This was something he looked forward to every year, and we made it possible for him to enjoy the experience.
|
|
Joined: 9/30/2007
Posts: 4
|
Nice to see more females getting out and throwing lead. My wife is finally getting interested in trying out the range first. HAHAHA little does she know she will be hooked. The regulations here in B.C. allow for 10 year olds under parental guidance to hold a junior hunting license. This year my oldest son turned 10 and we picked up his junior license that morning. 3 months later he was diagnosed with cancer for the second time. He now has leukemia. He is due for a stem cell transplant in October and has undergone chemo all summer. His worst day...August 15..OPENING DAY OF MOOSE SEASON. He enjoys watching all the videos and shows on hunting, but that day it just wasn't enough. He is now looking forward to next year when he says no matter what he'll be sitting on a cut line, watching and calling in his first moose. Keep up the good work. Rob Baker Canada
|
|
Joined: 8/27/2008
Posts: 4
|
I have a question. I have a stand in about three acres of woods. I have two feeders by my stand. Here is my layout: <--------------------------------Farmers Field-------------------------------> Farmers Field--------><Woods----------------------------------------------> <------------------------------Farmers Field--------------------------------> So basically I have a small patch of woods surrounded by fields. Usually there is beans in the top, and bottom fields, and corn on the left. This year there is corn in all three. My stand is about 100 yards from the corner of the top and left field about 10 yards into the woods. My question is what do I put in my feeders? I usually put corn but there is an abundance of it this year with all three fields. People tell me try things like Buck Chow, but I hear when that stuff gets wet it clogs up your feeder. I just want to make sure they come through the woods instead of walking the corn all the way around. What do you suggest?
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
Being both a producer and host I really get a huge variety of opportunities throughout the season. I was the producer on the past 3 hunts but now the camera has turned and it's time for my long-awaited Arizona archery elk hunt.
This isn’t just your ordinary elk hunt. We’re talking prime big bull country that takes years and years of waiting to obtain a tag. We should be hunting the peak of the rut and already, a couple days prior, I can hardly sleep.
The butterflies I’ve had in my stomach the past few days remind me of the days prior to my 1st deer hunt at age 12. There’s an overload excitement, nerves and months of anticipation all rolled into one giddy feeling.
I’ve put in long hours scouting, doing my homework on the area, and getting all the details finalized including all the paperwork required to film on public land.
About 90% of AZ is public land, so once you draw a tag, the land and elk are available to all. With a little luck and some long hard physical days, I can only hope this hunt turns out half as amazing as it has been in my dreams.
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
It’s hard to believe that it’s only mid-September and I’m starting my 4th fall hunting trip of the season.
So far I’ve had the privilege to film a successful archery pronghorn hunt with Mark Kayser, and incredible archery Manitoba Caribou show with Steve Pennaz, and most recently a crazy looking a-typical pronghorn buck with Gordy Krahn.
Thus far the shows have turned out great but nothing goes down without a few problems. After completing the first WY pronghorn show the camera went down. The show was complete with the exception of interviews. With this critical piece missing I had to arrange for a camera swap a couple hundred miles away.
The next tip was hunting both hunting and fishing show in the far north of Manitoba. The fishing was ok, not great, and the caribou had not yet made the migration down toward camp. Not exactly ideal circumstances but with a little patience and a lot of persistence we were for able to harvest a beautiful caribou and complete a pike and lake trout episode for North American Fisherman.
File Attachment(s):
 caribou compressed.JPG (40958 bytes)
Steves Caribou Compressed.JPG (34236 bytes)
WY Pronghorn Compressed.JPG (32167 bytes)
|
|
Joined: 9/25/2007
Posts: 930
|
Melissa, do you ever feel "peer" pressure on or off camera while on a hunt? How do you control buck fever while on stand? Do you take your eyes off the animal or it's antlers/horns before you release the arrow or pull the trigger?
On a personal note, I'm glad to see you spending some time with us folks here on the bb. You don't get that with other "pro" hunters! Be careful out there in the wilds, and God bless.
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
After completing a couple long trips the 2-day New Mexico pronghorn season was looking to be short & sweet. After a couple hours of hunting Gordy Krahn and I found ourselves pursuing another crazy horned goat. (Last year in Texas Gordy & I came home with a huge non-typical antelope)
After a long stock we were sitting in New Mexico smiling over yet another crazy looking buck. Since this was day 1 of a 2-day hunt Gordy & I went out with Federal Ammunition’s Tim Brandt and filmed him taking a picture perfect buck that was almost glowing in the morning sunlight. With yet another show under our belt it’s off to the next adventure…My Arizona elk hunt.
|
|
Joined: 9/19/2007
Posts: 36
|
Hello Melissa- How did you manage to draw an arizona elk tag ? What unit did you draw ? Since your not hunting arizona elk right now , i'm guessin a rifle tag and not archery , unless you opt for that. Nothing says you must hunt with a gun! Or did you by chance draw one of the new late season bow tags! Give us a clue and maybe we can help you out !
|
|
Joined: 9/19/2007
Posts: 36
|
Hello Melissa - i"ll try this one more time - Where -what unit did you draw in Arizona - did you getthe early archery bull or the late or a rifle tag - Lots of big bulls around - If i can help at all just ask - elkaholic**@cox.net
|
|
|
|
Melissa, Its nice to see you responding to peoples questions, and comments. I would like to see a show thats not outfitted, or high fenced. I know thats who pays the bills, but us average folks cannot afford a hunt like that. To many of us, those hunts are nothing more than target practice. You have a guide get you into position, put your shooting sticks up for you, and bang. Good shot, all that was missing was a sandbag and a bench. How come we never see the hunter/host doing any work after the shot. Us average folks have to gut and drag. All we ever see is the hunter/host is the glamour shot with their trophy, then the hunter/host at their 5 star lodge. I would also like to see the hunter/host using local businesses to buy their tags, etc. Do a profile on the mom and pop shops, yes we are one, but I am not asking you to come here. Mom and Pop shops do more for hunting than the multifaceted big stores, Dicks, Wal-Mart, etc.
|
|
Joined: 9/19/2007
Posts: 36
|
hello Melissa -- elk hunting in Az wish I'd drawn a tag this yr. -- What unit did you draw - archery -rifle ? let us know what happened _with pics -
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 273
|
Hello Melissa I have a bow setup/ arrow question for you. I shoot a Browning Mirage Pro Hunter with a #65 draw, 65% let off, wrist release, and 31" draw. I shoot Carbon Express Terminator Hunter 6075's arrows and 125g Thunderheads at 234fps. While the speed isn't all that fast it does pack the kinetic energy and I have no problems cutting fletchings off arrows out to 50y and have to re fletch frequently. I build my own arrows and have an OCD habit, you could say, when it comes to my hunting gear of having everything identical as possible even with my arrows. I weigh every single piece that goes on my arrows even the brawdheads. Currently my 12 hunting arrows weigh between 499 and 505 grains with heads and even write the weight on the arrow so I know. Now that you know my setup here is my question. How much of a grain deviation can one have when shooting out to 50y before you start to see changes in arrow impact? My friends say I’m crazy for being OCD about it but I want to know that no matter which arrow I shoot its going to fly and hit like the rest of them. Am I being too worried about it or doing the right thing? I know my setup works well for me as I have taken deer and fox with it out to 50y literally dropping them in there tracks.
AD1(AW)PETERSEN, STEVEN P. USN (Act)
|
|
Joined: 8/28/2008
Posts: 22
|
Just a quick note straight from the field of Arizona…
I'm now on day 9 of 10 on my archery elk hunt and have logged well over a 100 miles on foot looking for the trophy of my dreams.
The hunting has been tough to say the least, but it’s a draw of a lifetime and I'm giving this hunt my all. The weather is slightly warmer than usual and the elk are simply not responding to calls, making it very difficult to get within archery range.
We are hunting public land and the elk are abundant but it's a lot of walking, stalking, and scouting. I've passed on several smaller bulls throughout the trip & had an opportunity at a 350 class bull on the second day.
The bull passed through the shooting lane but did not give us enough footage for a TV show...so the hunt continues on. With a day and a half to go, I'm convinced the rut is getting closer and the hunting is getting better by the day.
Yesterday we watched a 380-class bull nose to nose with the lead cow while several big satellite bulls surrounded the other dozen cows. There wasn't enough light to pursue this bull, but it shows yet another sign that the rut is getting close.
Each morning the bugles are getting more aggressive and our strategies are bringing us closer and closer. Of course I'm hoping for a trophy elk, but waking up at 3am to bugling bulls outside the camper is an incredible experience. I've seen some of the biggest bulls of my life, been within a hundred yards of bulls every morning, and regardless of the outcome this hunt has been both a great experience and a success in my book.
File Attachment(s):
wink compressed.JPG (64920 bytes)
|
|
Joined: 9/18/2007
Posts: 458
|
Dang Melissa.....that story really made my day....can imagine the whole thing. Much better than looking at my Bloomberg screen all day. Good luck for the rest of your trip....Hope you get the bull of a lifetime.
Jim
Take your kids hunting before you have to hunt for you kids!!!
|
|
Joined: 11/10/2007
Posts: 153
|
Howdy Melissa and welcome to the Forums.
Life Member 05.
|
|
Joined: 9/19/2007
Posts: 36
|
hey lady - you and probably 100's of other hunters going thru the same thing - always hear of passsing on 350 + bulls - They seen the monster and got the big bull fever ! That's why I'm an elkaholic - Just being in the meadows at daybreak to watch and listening to the elk - AWESUME Sometimes they bugle all night and all day ! That's when the action really gets heated up. Well hopefully it'll be my turn next yr. I know you had fun -- Gary
|
|
|
|