This should have been posted a couple of days ago, but I have been having some major sewer problems at my house and have not had time to put a new posting together.

With all the snow we have on the ground and more in the forecast, Ralph asked me to tell you he is shutting down for the fall season. We have had a couple of good days on ducks and some great days, where the harvesting of the “big ol’ boys” was truly, a couple of dream days. For those that were there no Dec 2, 2007, the day, will live in your memory forever, I am sure.

I have not got any totals put together, and how they compared to my predictions, but I had the Snows and Blues in on that, so will try to give all the numbers at the closing to that season of that. I do know the ducks, I missed big time, because we never had a Mallard day all fall. The Canada’s, we may have not hit that either, but I had that set high. It was a good year on them (Canada’s) anyway. Then the boss out of action for a week too, and that hurt the totals also. So I have excuses, for not reaching my predictions.

Using our grandfathers for predicting the weather, we may be in for a long spring hunt. We have been have our share of fog in this area, this is putting some snow in our area around the middle of March, and that is also Nebraska’s big snow month. So maybe, we will get two or three go-a-rounds on them. Where they go north and get pushed back and then have to head back north. This blind setup this year, was put together with the spring hunt in mind. The boss says we should harvest near 1000, if they come back this way. Start stocking up on shells, or at least saving your nickels so you can buy some. Your going to need them for the spring.

So with all that out of the way. Everybody, please have a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. Also please remember all our Service Men and Women in your prayers each every night.

Good Lord willin, I will be back on with some post before the spring season kicks into action, giving you some idea as to when, Ralph will be start hunting again.

See Ya Carl

I don’t know if this is a summery of the season or not. We received another snow storm over night and it sounds like there is another tomorrow night.

There should of have been other reports posted but I have been playing lazy. It is also very hard to write about a days hunt when you have harvested, just a couple of birds, after the bonanza we had last Sunday. I guess I should have taken a picture of the pile of birds, because I thought there would be people offended of me posting such a picture. If I would have had a picture I would have been tempted to post it. Well I have had so many E-Mails for such a picture I requested some one to mail me such a picture. So I am including that picture from 12-02-07. Another good reasons for me posting this picture, is that this is positive proof, that I do get out on the lake every once in a while.

There may be a few birds missing in this picture because there were some hunter that had to leave and they and taken their birds with them. But it still is a big pile. This is taken from behind of the blinds looking over the blinds and on to the no fly zone. The boss is saying we had 79, but others say there were 80, but by either count it was a great shoot. As you can see in the back ground there is a couple of inches of snow, and we have picked up another 6 to 7 more inches since then. This is the end of talking about Sundays shoot.

As for the past couple of days, they have been hard hunting with all the snow and the cold weather. Then when the skies are also void of birds it makes it just a little harder to hang in there. Friday we seen several flocks of geese, and many are still the little Cackler’s with just a few big Canada’s flying with them. This combo as you know is very hard to decoy, so if is also frustrating, because you have to try, and all the time know very well you are going to fail.

The toughest part has been to go out to the pits and knowing you are not going to see any ducks. We still are receiving report that there are thousand of Mallards north of us yet, and we can not see a good flock of them. I think we have shot one on both Thursday and Friday and two on Saturday. We have loved the ice hole shooting for years on Mallards, and the past few years that has been just a memory. The duck season closes here on this next Sunday, and all report are the ducks have not pushed south yet. We are thinking there is no ducks, but how do you argue with the positive reports.

Remember all the troops in your prayers always. Also remember those that are affected by this mess in Omaha, in your prayers also

See Ya Carl

First I have to tell you that I fell asleep in my chair and that is why, there was no report last night.

The action was very slow at the pits and we took only a couple of ducks. We did see two of flocks of geese that looked us over, but could not get them into range.

Today’s action was also slow. With this storm coming in you would have thought there would have been some feeding in the area. It appeared, that there was no frenzy of feeding, that we seen today. Did see some ducks in the area that looked like they were looking for a field to feed in. Also did get into on small flock of ducks and harvested a couple of ducks and also got into a flock of 5 or 6 Canada’s, taking 3.

Please excuse me for such a short article tonight, but with the tragedy in Omaha this afternoon, writing is far from my thoughts. So tonight please include the people of Omaha in your prayers as well as the troops, in your bed time prayers.

See ya Carl

Today was slow by yesterdays standards, but yesterday will always make everyday slow. I have to say thanks, to you, that have E-Mailed me and have call Ralph and told him congratulations, on the day. It was truly an unbelievable day.

Have some other unfinished business, that takes us back to Saturday. We hunted for a couple of hours on Saturday in the rain and ice, Kevin shot one snow goose out of the decoys.

Also before I get started on today’s hunt, I have some outstanding number to give you. We compared notes (Ralph, Kevin and I) and we came up with two totals for you to run over. In the past 8 days and that includes today, we have harvested 233 or 236 Canada’s.
We can not agree on the total kill on just a couple of days. But take either total and it is quite impressive total form a Monday to the next Monday.

Now to today’s story. It started off with two big flocks, that we got into and we thought we were in for another unbelievable day. We were short on hunters, therefore we knew we were not going to log big numbers again, but had visions of limiting out, for the few guys we had. Both early go-a-rounds were before we should be seeing geese, let alone getting into them. One flock we had birds, land in the water, when the shot was called. I had seen three, go into the water, but thought that was all and left them for blind No. one. I went on birds that was a hard shot and did not score, but others took advantage of the easy shots. The other shot was up over the top of the blind, and it was plenty close. We took 6 out of one flock and the other we took 5. Both shots we should have scored better, even if we only had 7 smoke poles.

Also had a flock of ducks in the afternoon. I was cleaning my shotgun when they decoyed in. The harvest was not to good there either with only one coming down. On the duck side, we did see some ducks coming off the river, and looked as if were coming North to feed. Now both flocks were big flocks of over 100 birds, and this is something we have not seen for the past couple of seasons. Being we are talking about feeding birds I should also tell you that we had a flock of 100 plus Canada’s pass over, that had just got out of a field and they had mud and corn stalk leaves, stuck to their feet. Though that would make them interested in our water hole but did not give us a look.

Better close this and get it posted, so please say a prayer for the troop again tonight.

See ya Carl

A record day on Canada's

Today we started out with a sharp Northwest wind, and before the hunting got started the fog moved in as well as a snow storm. We were getting reports from west of us that it should be clearing but the snow kept falling. Then there was a report once the snow moved out that the sky was filled with ducks. But the snow kept falling. Hunters were feeding info into there cell phones to get a radar picture of our area, and we were on the back side of the storm, but the snow kept falling. The blinds were getting wet even if we were under the covers, but with the wind it was still blowing in and melting. Just the setting made you cold, as you pried into the gray clouds hoping for some sign that the storm was passing. At about 10:30 the snow let up and the sky started to clear. Then in a few minutes there were shouts there is some ducks, and there is another flock, then we got into a little flock and put 4 drakes in the pond.

The sky’s were clearing and there was shouts of “look at that high flock of Snows and Blues , and there is a flock of Canada’s”. But everything was passing us by. Then some one predicted that we were going to bag 24 Can. Another said we were going to bag 30. and others made their prediction, so I had to make one. Since there is nothing I can predict that plays out with this screwed up season, I said 2 Canada’s. Right now I want to tell you know one was close to the end tally.

We had a nice flock that decoyed but flew out and the Boss said “the decoys are not set right”, pointed out that know self respecting flock would, set on the ice covered with snow, in that pattern. So he went out and made his voodoo adjustment, and moved about 6 decoys. Now this was about 10 minutes before 12:00 noon. Well the 12:08 flock was just a little late and showed up at about 12:18. We had two flock that were looking our spread over and decided to make the Boss look good, and prove Ol’Carl wrong, about this voodoo move. They got down wind on two different levels and made one beautiful approach into our spread. When the smoke cleared we had 9 D I P. Got them picked up and back into the pits when another two flocks showed up and give us another spectacular decoy in job and we took 15 out of that flock. That was followed by another go-a-round and took another 9. Now this was 33 birds, in just about 45 minutes.

Now this is getting to where we have a bird for everyone to take home, and you know that most will be leaving, with a good feeling, about the days hunt. Again I have to remind you, with the wind where is was, and blowing like it was, most of this beautiful decoying was in full view of everyone. The Boss kept saying “lean back and don’t move” but you could do this and still see most of the action and they dropped in and come up through our ‘no fly zone’ and into range of our smoke poles. I can’t say just how many times this happened, but enough time that all hunters went home with more that any one bird.

Before I can give you the final tally I have to tell you of one more flock. I have this love hate, feeling about the little Cacklers. They are always messing up a good shot on the big Canada’s, and seem to dominate them when they are flying together. Well we had a flock of 150 those little SOB, along with about 25 Big Canada’s that decoyed in. All the chirping of them little bastards, along with the sweet sounds of the big Canada, plowing up through the ‘no fly zone’. Now remember the boss has hunters in 6 pits today, and is wanting to get everyone a great shot. He let 6 great big Canada’s pass close enough to him and I that we could clubbed them with a pool que, they were followed with another 50 birds in range of our guns. He was waiting for, when there were more big boys in range, of other guns, then he give the command to TAKE’em. Well we places 26 birds in the pond on of that go-a-round. There were birds all over the lake.

Well the total for the days shoot is a record day for Canada geese. The old record was set a few years back before I had retired, at 60 some birds. Well we passed that by over a dozen and half and finished with 80 birds. We needed one more bird for a limit for everyone. Just think of that, 27 hunters going home with a limit of dark geese.

Well I have to close this. The pictures shows some of the retrieving of today. Most of the time they were hard water retrieves but some were in the water too.

Say a little prayer for all our great Hero’s tonight, and please check back

See Ya Carl

Another brisk, cold day in the pits, with a northwest wind. The only thing different with this day, and the northwest wind, this time we harvested some birds. In another words we burnt some powder. I think we were into the big boys at least 6 times today. We never, did a great job of shooting, on any flock but just burning up the powder if what most get excited about. Also the bird were just a little different today, they appeared to be just a little nervous. There were flocks that were down into our spread that we didn’t get a shot at. Don’t know if they were unsure if the ice was thick enough to hold them or was it the fact there was some moisture in the air. Never the less, getting a great shot was not in the cards, for us today. As I said, we had some birds in on at least 6 times and we made the best of what we got. Finished off the day with 19 big ones, in the ol’game bag at days end.

There was not a shortage of birds either, except for the Mallards. There was plenty of Canada’s and the Snow and Blues was flock after flock, at times. Some were very, very high, and then there was some that would have been in the decoying height, in years past.

Sure would be fun, for this old man, to just one more time, to have a fair size flock, give us the look we have seen. I got started waterfowl hunting back in the early 70’s that was the bird you went to Kohler’s for. It was so much fun, to watch them turn back in the wind and just stand there, checking out every thing, before they would start to let down. Some time they would do their thing and tumble (corn shuck), sometimes they come in quiet, not saying anything and the next time they would all be talking. I know we get to see some of this stuff in the spring now, but it is not the same as it was back then, when you had to call them in and not a machine doing the calling, with that you can’t hear them talking back.

Thought I got a picture of Lyle’s dog on a retrieve, of a big Canada, but for some reason, I didn’t, so you have to look at another sunrise, from the pits.

Better get this posted So say a little prayer for the troops tonight

See Ya Carl

Even though we shot poorly, we still had a great shoot this morning. Would have had more if, we would have had just a little wind so the ice hole would have stayed open. There was at least 4 flocks that give us more than a great look and we just could not get them to finish without some wind. Most of the action was before it was goose time, so we consider them bonus birds. I think all was before noon.

I guess we should not complain it was a better day than yesterday when we had a outdoor writer there, and we could not get a goose to look at us. There is a storm, brewing up north and this was most likely the reason for this mini push we had today. We seen several flocks of Snows and Blues late this after noon, and as you would expect they didn’t give us a look. Very few ducks were spotted and very few even prompted us, to call.

However the bag included 10 Canada’s, not a bad bag for a short crew. Everyone that wanted birds got them. Weather sounds good for tomorrow, but that has not always proved to be a good day this season, but you would think this storm, would shake something loose. We keep hearing that, the ground is covered with birds, north of us, so maybe, just maybe, they will be showing up in this blow.

Have to get this posted so say a prayer for the Men and Women that are serving our country, this evening when you hit the sack

See Ya Carl

The picture is the first topic I will address this evening. This was taken a few days back, but I just have to send it on. Not the most beautiful sunrise you have ever seen, but there is so many vapor trails from airliners, that it made it so interesting. If memory serves me right there are 13 in the picture. I felt there was a need for a picture on this report, but not that much happening at the pits so this one come out of the files. Remember you can click on the picture and enlarge it for a better look..

We have been looking forward to this day for several days now. The crew consisted of some guest today that the boss was wanting, some action for. Hunters have been calling and wanting to have a seat saved for them, and we were almost as full, even spilled over into the old pits. The forecast has been saying that there was a strong Northwest wind and falling temp, coming today. Most of the time when we have a strong Northwest wind, we have a, action filled day. This year has been different, and today proved that again. We run the full gamut of weather. Sun, no sun, clouds, no clouds, high winds, light winds, lake freezing and lake opening up, and very slow action with all.

There was a few high geese, but very few were interested in stopping in for a short visit, and those that did decoy, did so just for a short pass or two over the spread, and never got in for a shot. And the ducks, were just as hard to decoy, too. We did have a few that made the mistake of trying to fly through the, no fly zone. “The bag” had only three big drakes in it tonight. We had only one small flock and we took two out of it, and a single come in, and we took him too.

The boss had a Dr. Appt. today and while he was gone we had amateur day again. In his absents, we has some great action, placing a few birds in the pond. There was a mini push of birds and we made the most of it. There was 18 to 20 flocks, of Canada’s and 4 to 5 flocks, of ducks and 2 S&B’s. Now I guess I should tell you that we were in Canada’s 3 times taking 7 of them, got into a little flock of Greenwing Teal taking one of them, I didn’t shoot. We had a blue goose come in and we harvested it and a snow that didn’t even slow down and look at us. So when the boss got back to the pits we had 9 birds in the game bag.

Once he got back we got into the Canada’s two more times One flock we wiped out and the other was a nice flock of Cacklers and they Jigged when we thought they were going to Jagged and only one was harvested. The bag total was 10,1,1,1. That translates to: Ten big boys, One Sky Carp, One Little Cackler, and the little Teal For a year where we have not been able to have two days in a row, where we had a game bag worth talking about, today was a real thrill. Just have to say I wouldn’t miss tomorrow for nuttin.

Got home very late because we had birds to dress and other blind related chores to tend to, after the hunt, and I have a Grandkid to go watch play a basketball game so to have to close this.

As always say a prayer for the Boy and Girls, that are in harms way.

See Ya Carl

Well the smoke flew, the powder burned, and the trash had more empty shell boxes in tonight. Another very exciting and memorable day on south lake. I know I do not have the ability to describe the sight from the skies we had today.

The Cacklers were on the move. There is a love hate situation between them and me. They have a ability to keep you from getting other birds in for a shot, especially the big Canada, but you just have to love to hear and watch them when they decoy into your spread. They are not to fawn of our lake, so we may have not harvested, as many as we wished we could, but that does not take away from the pure excitement, they radiate when you have a hundred of them little aggravating SOB’s Chirping right over your head. I know we had to see over 30 flocks, of them today. Had several flocks that decoy, to us, but you just don’t get into them to often. When they are decoying, they all get to hollering like a bunch of Guinea’s, and if that don’t get the excitement juices flowing, I don’t know just what does. One flock made the mistake and got to close and we took 5 out of it.

We also got into the big ones again today. If memory serves me right we was into the big boys three times, and the Cacklers one time today. Had 19 or 20 birds in the game bag at days end.

The picture at the top is three of the guests, which were in my pit today. The two young men were a treat to hunt with, and the young lady has graced our lake before and is a very serious hunter. The young man on the right has a little Cackler in his right hand. For the noise they make there is not much of a bird there. Remember you can enlarge the picture by clicking on it.

Well as always please say a prayer for all the troops, that are serving our nation, in your bed time prayer tonight.

Also please check back and we will be seeing ya Carl

The pictures gives you an idea as to what today’s action was all about. I am finding there is many that are not aware, that you can click on the picture. This makes it fills your screen. Then you can scroll left and right as well as up and down, if you wish. This works on all picture that have or will be posted.

As you can expect there were a few empty shell boxes in the trash today. The ducks were we not to being seen, but the big boys gave us a wonderful and thrilling day.

We got a early start on them and they slowed down, shortly after noon but the time in between we a great time. Not sure just how many time we went into action, but am sure it was close to a half dozen times. Never was there a time when we shot as well as we did on Thanksgiving day, when we had nine guns and took 9 birds, but there was some good harvesting on flocks. There was no real big geese, but there was no little ones either. With the absents of ducks to be seen, the ‘water crew’ pulled all the ducks decoys. This was done partly because the direction of the wind. With the ducks decoys setting where they should be set, the Canada’s would not come up over us for a shot, so they took them out of the water. Then all the action, was all out in front or right up above the pits. Every go-a-round, was a great shot.

I just have to tell you of one flock. There was at least 30 birds in it, and were not getting down, for a good a shot. They were coming into the ‘no fly zone’ again, the boss was ‘talking his thoughts’ when he said “now get down” and like on command, they lowered their landing gear and cupped their wing, a little more and got down. After a couple of toots on his horn, then gave the command “take’em”. When the smoke cleared we had 11 down and 9 D I P. The two sailed, to the north end of the farm and Kevin and I, gathered them up with the golf cart. What memorable shot. When they dropped from about 50 yds. high to maybe 20 yds. in just a mater of seconds, was a great sight.

The game bag held over 30 of the big boys, not a bad, shoot. All The hunters left with big smiles on their faces and birds in their hands, again today.

Say a prayer for all of our hero’s, that serve this country tonight, in your prayers.

See ya Carl

Happy Thanksgiving, and I have thanksgiving story for you today. The picture is some of our bag. First I have to give you the low down on yesterday. Had a few chances on Canada’s but just could not get them to finish. Was like that on the ducks too. Later in the afternoon, some one spotted two Canada’s, folded up like a duck coming in and we harvested them. That was the total for Wed.

Now to today’s Thanksgiving day hunt. Ralph has not hunted on Thanksgiving for a number of years. Thanksgiving Day hunt, has always been a little private thing with me and some close friends as well as my Grandsons. Some how Ralph made a reservations for some hunters on the 22nd of November, not knowing it was Thanksgiving day. His Dear wife, said he didn’t have to call and cancel them, if he would come in early. So as time passed he book a few more hunters and when we open the pits this morning we had 4 pits full, 20 plus hunters

Now with the cooler weather we had this gorgeous ice hole right out in front of the pits. Nice north west wind. The big Canada’s decoys, out in front of a nice little raft of Mallards decoys, dressing up our focal point. It had to be just begging to the birds, with all it’s beauty. The morning passed with out getting anything in close enough to even say they really decoyed. People had to leave for their Thanksgiving dinner and the fire power was vanishing fast.

We have this one hunter, that will remain nameless, we call him Hawkeye. He has the habit of leaving just before we shoot Canada’s, so he packed his gear and left. My spirits were lifted, buy his departure. I was very confident the big boys were on their way. At about 1:20 someone spotted a nice flock of geese up over the west lake, a group of over 20 big birds. Then the cry went up “they are coming our way” so everyone ducked under the straw and the calls went into action. Well they took a circle and a half, around our spread before lowered their landing gear. Eight or nine were going to settle into our open water hole and the others were going for one more pass and were right up over the pits, when, Pappa Goose gave the command TAKE’EM. When the smoke cleared we had 7 D.I.P. And two sailors. Now the amazing thing is, we had just 9 guns, two of them were manned by young boys. Some great shooting by all. 9 guns and 9 geese, just don’t get much better than that.

We weighted two of the real big ones and they were both 14 LBS plus. The small ones were not far behind, on the scales. I don’t think there was any under 10.5 lbs.

We stuck around for just a few more minutes a then closed up for the day. Didn’t think it would get any better, than what we had set on our plate.

Please remember the troops on this Thanksgiving day, in you evening prayers, they are our HERO’S

See Ya Carl

The sky was filled with low hanging clouds, and these clouds, had a very light mist falling from them, most of the morning. There was a 20 MPH North Northeast wind that felt like it was blowing off an iceberg. Along with all this discomfort there was chapped lips and faces, and maybe a sore shoulder or two, but many smiling faces, when we left the lake. The shots were on the sporting side, but we burnt some powder. If you haven’t heard, the ducks moved south today. The number that we placed in the pond today could not reflect the number that moved. We could not see over 200 yards most to the day so we seen only, what flew over us, but we can guess, as to how many thousands moved into the area. Today has to be one of the better shooting days we have had in a several years. Was very few minutes between flocks of ducks, and some of the flocks had 50 birds and up, in them.

The Canada’s were few, until later in the day, and then we started to see them, making us believe that we will be seeing them tomorrow. As we were closing up to come in we had three Canada’s that was all locked up and coming in. Calls and guns were packed, so we missed a great shot there.

I also must say we did see plenty of Snow’s and Blue’s too. Some of them we felt that came up from the south. We had reports of people hearing them in the night. Therefore, we just have to assume we had birds that moved in, and are staying someplace in the area. Wouldn’t that be fun if we had a few days of decoying them. We had some come in and land in the decoys early this morning before it was light enough to shoot. The time was right but you just could not see, because the clouds were so heavy. At the same time we had three Canada’s that flew into the decoys, again we just could not see them in time to get ready to shoot and call a shot. It was as dark as it is usually is when it is 2 hours before sunrise, on a very dark night.

As for the size of the bag, we know we missed so many in the weeds today, as you always do on windy day, but we had over 30 mallards when we closed. Again I must complain about just how hard it is, getting your shot to the birds, in this wind. They just don’t waste time getting out of range, when you start shooting.

It is always fun day, when we have a trash bag that has a few empty shell boxes in it, at days end. Since I back up my chamber load, with two 3.5 in shells on windy days, I emptied a couple of previous opened boxes.

Please say a prayer for the troops tonight, at bedtime

Also be sure to check back

See Ya Carl

Had very little wind today. So there was hardly anytime the lake that was looking appealing to migrating birds. However, we had a few ducks early before sunrise that offered a fly by. We were scanning the skies and tuning goose call, when the cry went up “Geese over the West Lake”. Eyes went left as we watched four Big Boys fly over that lake and made a slight flight adjustment, to the North Lake. Now remember this was before 8:30, and you just don’t decoy geese at that time a day. So we were not surprised when the by passed that lake too. There was just something, about this flock, that set a sense of anticipation, that these geese were ours. After a few toots on the horn and we leaned back and watch. Their wings were locked and very little back talk from them, with their landing gear was down. Passing over the pits heading for a short hook behind the blinds. We heard the boss give the command they are coming in from behind and get ready. The next sound come from them and you knew they were very very close, I am sure if you had good ears, you could have heard, the wind whisling over their wings, just before the command was given “TAKE EM”.

When the smoke poles were lowered there were 4 geese D.I.P. High fives and claims were passed around, and various versions of just what bird fell and when, and who’s shot hit what bird. I’m sure that three were my shots, but I refused to say anything, suggesting that. After all it was not a long shot, at maybe 25 yards.

Times like this is just why you go hunting. Was to have a picture, but it has not been sent to me as promised. I don’t know why I didn’t take my own picture, but didn’t. Sure would be nice to post it here tonight.

This is Saturday so must close and take Mama out on the town. Please remember the troops tonight at prayer time

See Ya and please check back

Carl

Today was a very short day. Had one hunter and he had to leave before 10:00. Before he left we had just two flocks of Geese. One flock was a flock of about 25 Specks. Almost Thanksgiving and we have Specks in our area yet. There has been reports of big numbers of Specks, still in the Dakota’s, but not sure we believed we would see them. The second flock of about 20 Cacklers. They gave us a pretty good look but we just could not get them to finish. Our guest left and I am not sure he made it all the way to his truck before we had a little flock of big Canada’s sail into our “No Fly Zone”, and most of them did fly out. We took only 1. Should of taken all of them. I picked on the most right bird and he come down, but another guy said he was shooting at that one too, but why would he pick on that one. I can not argue with him, because I moved to another bird when that one fell and finished unloading on the next bird and he didn’t come down.

We picked up and headed to the house after that shot.

Please keep the troops in your prayers and please check back

See Ya Carl

The day started with great promise, but just did not develop. We had 7 Canada’s in the decoys when we arrived in the decoys. They were about 75 yards out, so other plans were put in place. Kevin slithered out of the pit and went way out around them, with the idea of getting them up and the hunters in the pits could maybe harvest them. Well it ended up that Kevin was the only one to have a shot, and he opted not to shoot, in hopes we could call them over to us. Kevin, got to with in about 30-35 yards of them and was unselfish enough, to pass on a great shot. While he was gone on the long route around the lake, we passed on the only duck shot, we had all day. We did have another shot on a single later, but this was a flock of about 15.

The morning was exciting, as we had several flocks of geese and there was 3 or 4 flocks that did decoy. We had a major problem due to the fact, we were frozen up. Before sunrise we had a nice wind, but when the sun come up we lost all the wind, and it was cold enough, the lake froze over in just a few minutes. Thus the birds do not like thin ice. So all the Canada’s and ducks we had until the wind come back up did not look at us to long. We did have one goose that come in and tried to fly through our “No Fly Zone”. He didn’t make it. That was the total of our bag for the day.

Had several E-Mails asking for more sunrise, and a one asking if this is a hunting site why not picture of some game. Well if we start having some good shoots, I may have something to take a picture of. All reports are saying that South Dakota is loaded with waterfowl, and the weather map says we should be seeing them here this next week. Not sure of anything, anymore, so if they show up I will take pictures.

Again please say a prayer for all the guys and gals that are protecting us.

See Ya Carl

I will first address the picture. It was taken yesterday the 13th. I have about 5 pictures of this sunrise and they are all very good. There hasn’t been very many this fall, but this has to be the best for this hunting season. Hope you enjoy.

For all of you that live some distance from Nebraska, do not know just what we had for weather here today. The forecast was calling for winds out of the Northwest 20 to 30 with gust as high as 40 MPH, and that is what we got. With winds like this we were expecting to have a shoulder bruising day. The skies were crystal clear, so making it very hard to see high flyers. We are sure we were not missing a 100 percent, but there just was not any birds up there. After noon we started to see some high clouds and along with them came some flocks of birds. Snows and Blues, Canada’s, as well as some ducks. There was not an over abundance of them but there were a few, and we did turn some. Had one flock of about 50 that we thought were gone and they come back in and we took them on the first pass. What a sight, as they dropped, from several hundreds yards high, and into harvesting range. If you don’t enjoy that sight, it is time to go ahead and close the lid.

Did have one flock of ten Canada’s, that decoyed into the west lake. There was no one there, but we just could not get there attention, so I am sure, they never seen our lake, and with the wind, could not hear us, either.

As for what we placed in our game bag today. There was six, big fat, red leg, green heads. Boy, they were all nice big ducks. They have been feeding well. I think we went into action 3 times, but remember they escape pretty darn fast, in high winds. If you are not young and fast, you are just making noise.

Well I better got this off to you all. Say a prayer for all our hero’s in your bed time prayers.

Check back and see Ya

Carl

Well the boss is getting his stamina back. Over our objections he got into the lake today. He just set a few decoys. He claimed he was feeling just fine, when he got back to the pits, he did have some, of that dry cough. The cough did pass very fast and he held up pretty good, until we bailed out of the pits, and come in.

The skies contained many flocks of game today. Most was high and was moving very fast, south. This was mostly ducks but there were some geese, but not many. We could not get many ducks to put on the breaks, and give us a look. So we got plenty of practice on the horn today. We had only 1 Mallard drake and one big Canada, in the bag when we pulled up stakes, this afternoon.

We just can’t get any weather that makes you think it is fall. Had winds from the North today and it was cool, but still warmer than it should be. Tomorrow we have the wind back in the South, and warmer, again. We thought we heard that there was to be some snow in South Dakota, but I don’t think it ever got cold enough for snow.

The reports of numbers of birds that are setting in Sand Lake, are mind boggling. There is over 330,000 Snow and Blues there and more coming in everyday, so they have to start moving out soon. I don’t remember how many Mallards, but the interesting thing about the ducks was that there are still 1000’s of Pintails, still up that way. They should have been south of us 3 weeks ago. It is almost Thanksgiving, and have had ice on the lake only 3 mornings. That was not thick enough to talk about. Looking forward to having about 4 inches of ice and a nice hole filled with water, and thirsty mallards every where.

Well I guess I best quit dreaming and get this posted.

Say a little prayer for the troops tonight and please check back.

See Ya Carl

Was a great day in the pits today. Wasn’t the shooting, but the boss got back in his chair. He did violate the “No Boot Rule” but he did stay out of the water. I know the decoy setting was not as good as he said it was, but he did tolerate it for today. The wind is forecast to go to the North tomorrow, so lets see what happens then. He did get tired out, but wanted to stick it out until every one called it a day. You could see he was tired, when we called it quits. He says he feels well but with this weight loss is just weak. I know it was a good feeling for me, to look over there and see him back in his chair. Sure hope we didn’t over do it today.

Thought for a while we were going have a great welcoming back party for him. The movement has been very slow, but early morning we had about 15 Snows and Blues come off the river and sailed right over our lake. We had them sawing their tune, and was looking like we were about to go into action, when a truck went down the road and got them a little nervous and they flew out. However, they did come back a couple of times but never really setteled down and done a good decoy job again.

Did see another nice flock, of about 75-100 of Snows and Blues. They come in from the north and settled into a field just north west of us. That was just a little exciting, that there were some of them that was feeding in our area. Now if we could get a few of them that is up around the north-south Dakota state line to start drifting this way, before some storm pushes all of them out, in one big flock, we could have some good hunting.

The rest of the day’s action comprised, of a pintail drake, a Gadwall, and one Mallard. Not much of a bag for this time of year. There are so few ducks, but reports are there is plenty of them in the Dakota’s, so one of these days, they have to come through here, get to their wintering grounds.

Please remember all our hero’s in this evening prayer. They are in need of our support.

Please check back again

See Ya Carl

Well I need to update you on the progress here in Burt county Nebraska.

The first update has to be the boss. He is feeling better and is going to try coming to the pits tomorrow. He is supposed to show up without boots. And he better be obeying that order. I have to admit it will be very comforting to look over into the next pit and see him there. He has been missed,

There has been a shortage of birds for the past week, while Ralph has been sick. I have had some great help on most of the days, and I must say thank you to those guys, I really valued and appreciated your assistance. The days that I was without assistance, I have to say I’m Sorry I didn’t do better. I owe some people a few shell that they wasted, on a few impossible shots. They are trying to say I missed in a non-call today, but they have no proof, that the bird was close enough, so I still am saying, there wrong.

As for the action in the pits the past couple of days I think there has been just one duck taken since the last posting. That bird was a pintail and just think about that. Almost the middle of November and we still have pintails in the area. I hear there are good numbers of them, still in So Dakota.

One of there days we are going to have a push of birds, that is going to blow your mind. Sure hope we have the hunters so we can take advantage of the push.

Till I post another report, keep the troops in you prayers

See Ya Carl

Not much to report this evening about the hunting. Had a nice North West wind, with the absents of birds. Seen quite a few in the morning and thought we were in for a great day of migrating birds. Now we are wondering if it was birds that was setting in some of the wetlands restorations projects north of us, that moved because, they froze up, with this cold snap we had today.

However we do have some good news. The Boss got released from the hospital this afternoon. Their only explanation is, the Lipitor. They feel he has a allergy to it. Boy it hit him hard and made his so sick. I don’t know just when he will be allowed back in the pits, but am sure he will push it, just as far as he can. As you know the title of his book is “Born to Hunt”, and it has been said many times, that it is a great fit. I know I will be happy to see him back in his seat.

Must get this posted and do a couple of other projects, before bedtime.

So keep the troops in your prayers and check back. And maybe say one for the Boss, too.

See Ya Carl

The boss is still under the weather, but the amateurs are still at work, and we are getting some shots. More about that later.

They are still running some test, on the boss and he is feeling much better. He is hoping to come home real soon, and as far as I am concerned, the sooner the better. We hunted till sunset so we didn’t get down tonight, to visit him. I know they kept him pretty busy with test today. But sure he would have enjoyed the visit, and maybe a little of Dorothy’s food. He is not in love with the food they have been serving him, so Mother Goose has been bring him, a snack or two in her purse, to boost his spirits.

Now to the hunting, had a couple of opportunities today on duck and geese. I should not do to much bragging as to the kill but we did do real good on one flock of ducks. Placed 80%, in the pond. For you that live out side of our area, there was a pretty stiff breeze, here today. Guessing 25 to 30 MPH, with some gust, much higher. So if you are just a little slow you should save your ammo, but that is not the case most of the time. We gave them all three barrels. However we did place 2 geese and 4 mallards in the bag. As I said they get out of range so fast when they can catch the wind, so in reality there is just one good shot, and the rest is just personal, entertainment, therapy, or something. We all do it and it is fun, never the less. Makes you feel good, and your burning powder.

Have some calling to do this evening so am forced to cut this short.

As always, say a little prayer for the troops and include the boss in your prayers also.

See Ya Carl



.

The boss has been a little under the weather for the pass few days. We are having amateur day till he gets back. They are running a bunch of test on him at the Methodist Hospital, and are down to where they are thinking he has an infection of some type in his body. He has been running a temperature and chilling pretty bad so we band him from the pits for a few days.

As for the activity at the pits. Us amateur did harvest some ducks, but the exciting thing is we seen over 25 bunches of Snow and Blues today. They were not flying high but we could not talk any of them down. Now these bunches are not the type we have been seeing for the past few years, where there were hundreds in a flock. They were 15 to 150 birds in a flock, like in the old days. We turned a couple of flocks, but never got any to really decoy. Sure was exciting to see this type of flocks. A couple flocks of Canada’s and also was a few Specks in with the S&B’s.

Very few Mallards, a few blue bill, also a few Green wing. Harvest a couple of those green wing. We had a hen that we are counting as a harvested bird. See she lit out in the pond, and we talked her right over to the pits. Was just a few feet from waters edge, maybe 10 feet, we took a vote and gave her a full pardon. Took a Drake Mallard so calling it 4 ducks for the day.

As I said we are running Amateur day for a few days, but with this weather change north of us, you better be paying attention, and be ready to get here and take your limit, because it is going to get good.

Don’t forget the troops, when you say your bed time prayers tonight

Don’t forget to check back either, see ya.

Carl

We had a wonderful NNW wind today and all the other elements were in place, for a great day in the blinds. Should have been a shoulder bruising, powder burning, hunting day. And believe me, it started that way. Right after legal shooting we had a flurry of Mallards, and the sky was filled with flocks, of both ducks and geese. The geese were not to high to decoy and looked as they were all travelers, so we set our minds for a great day of shooting. After about a half hour of this activity, every thing cooled off and the skies went bare. We ended the day with just one duck and one goose in the game bag.

I know we passed on ducks that were less than a perfect shot, because there were going to be some great shots just a little later, in the day. But as I say, that a slow day in the pits, beats the hell out of a good day behind the desk---10-4.

Let hope that the activity picks up here in the next few day, after all the first day of November is the next hunting day from right now. So have a happy Halloween, and a safe night of trick or treating.

Please say a prayer for the troops and check back.

See Ya Carl

The first order of business it to tell you that, we have backed off the time we are leaving town to 6:30 now. I am guessing that will not change again before we go back to regular time. That changes on the 4th of November. Using the formula of one and one half hours before sunrise, we will then, be departing town at 5:30.

As for the activity of the past few days. Today was the only day that we took anything. We took one Canada, but decoyed several flocks of ducks. We had that great Northwest wind on Saturday and we didn’t have any birds, that was decoy able and today we had a wind out of the Southeast, and we had some birds that decoyed. Of course we had the decoys set for a Northerly wind so getting them close enough for a shot was difficult, however we did have ducks in on us several times. But the success rate was a little lacking again today. This makes me tell you about the shot on the Canada. Now remember we had shot at some ducks earlier and had no luck, so everyone was guilty of missing, so when the shot was called on the goose, it sounded like there was just one shot. I looked to my left, and I seen about four gun barrels smoking and I had shot too. So none of us were sure whether it was our shot or some one else, who done the deed.

The wind got up where it was really a nice wind. We had seen plenty of ducks early and also a few flocks of Snow and Blue’s. Heard some Specks so they are still on the move.

Another tense time this morning I have to tell you about. R K was work on his goose call, getting the pitch just right, as always he is standing while doing this, so he can continual, scan the shies, for game. As he surveyed the shies, to Southwest, he seen three birds sailing toward the decoys. He started to alerted us to a couple of geese. Well before he got the words out of his mouth, about geese he decided it was not geese but was Sandhill Cranes. There were three of them. We don’t see to many of them and when you do, you enjoy the gift. Well one of these birds did not have any legs extending out behind as usual. Have no idea as to why, but have to assume it was handicapped. His flight was not hampered, because he moved as graceful as his partners did, but am sure his walking is not so smooth. So if you are south of Tekamah Nebr, and spot a trio of Cranes, and one is short his legs please hit the comment icon, let me know. Lets see if we can track them on down to Texas, or where ever they winter. I know in some states there is a season on these birds so if harvested or hear it was harvested please do the same.

Better get this posted so as always say some prayers for the troops and please check back

See Ya Carl

I had to make a run to Omaha this morning so I didn’t go hunting. Also did not put out a report last evening, because it was a day with out a shot. So you get two day in one.

As I said I was in the Big O, all morning and after a few other stops, got home around 3:00 and they were pulling up stakes, for the day. However they did harvest 5 ducks.

I had built, a BIRD PERCH and they told me it was not occupied this morning. Hope you are wondering what the H--- I am talking about, so will explain.

We have some big, white, long leg, birds that love to set on the Canada’s decoys. First we tried just scaring him, by making some noise, but that didn’t work Next step was to contacted the Game Warden and he gave us some bird bombs, and we got a couple of them real close to them, but scaring him does not deter him. Ralph has brought the Decoys to town and scrubbed all the Poop off them, again. It is almost impossible to get them clean out there.

So I got to thinking just why does he love our Canada’s so much??? I thought that he was just looking for something to set on, out in the water, for some protection. Also there is a thought he was thinking these other birds will be a warning system, for him, if danger approaches. So I constructed a perch just a little taller than a decoy, and we set it near the decoys, hoping he would set on it, and poop all he wished. Well he didn’t set on it last night, so I am planning on adding some wood to the top plate so it would be just a little more natural thing, for him to set on. See I used all iron and he may come in so late he may not see it, but if I put a piece of wood on the top plate, he should see that, and use it.

Heard from a friend, he said you handle this situation the S-S-S way.
You Shoot, the SOB.
You Scoop, out a hole for the SOB, and cover him
You Shut up, about the SOB

I guess that is all the news, so check back and hope we gets thing turned around

Say a little prayer for the boys and girls, that are protecting us
See Ya Carl

There is ducks like we haven’t seen here in years and they are decoying in for good shots. Also seen loads of Whitefronts, and got in to Canada’s twice today. Mother nature put everything in place for great day. Temperature was about as good as you would want and the skies were clearing so we had every type of sky you could like, the ideal wind, and we still set there with no hunters. What does it take to excite you guys. You are missing the boat. Sure was a fun day. Could have easily shot a box of shells, again today.

Here is the bag for the day, a couple of Specks, 5 Canada’s and all the ducks we wanted to haul home. What more do you want??? If we had more hunters we would have had a larger bag.

These Canada’s were some real nice big fat birds. We didn’t weight them but sure every one, went over the 11 lbs. mark. Also we had some real nice, big mallards. Had our laugh again today, when I doubled up on a couple more, of the Long Bill ducks. Boy, do they ever find my pattern easy. If I get close to one he dies.

Well I don’t know what else I can tell, to excite you any more than I have. There is some great shooting, going on at Kohler’s Hunting, if you are wanting a great hunt, get your butt heading this way.

Was asked to update you all on my predictions for the season as well as a progress report, so here goes. I predicted we would harvest 350 Canada’s 4 to 600 Ducks, and 900 Snows and blues in the spring Remember we had Rain for about 10 days and took nothing. Right now we have harvested 30 Dark Geese 110 Ducks, and most of the days when we shot we had to quit, because we had a limit or all the ducks we could get rid of. Like yesterday should have sent over 100 birds home with guys, but had to stop at 48 or 49, because of limits.

Please say prayer for all the guys and gals that are protecting us tonight, and every night

Check back and see ya

Carl

The last time I felt this good Steve Pederson had just got fired. I have that same great feeling today, WOW WHAT A DAY. I know very well that this old kid had no idea how to put the words together to truly describe, the quality, of this day.

If we would have had a bigger crew, we could have had a record day, for ducks. The birds were there if we would have had the hunters, we could of more than doubled, our bag with ease. Ralph and I were talking on the way out as to the number of flocks that decoyed to us today, and we are sure it would be over 100 flocks. As you know you don’t shoot into every flock you decoy and you don’t decoy every flock you see, but we got into our share. We limited again on Pintails, and almost had a duck limit, for everyone. Finished the day with around 50 ducks.

I know some of you will be thinking, why not more ducks than that if there was that many around. See you got, maybe one or two good shots in this wind and they are gone, but damn it was fun. Again, I must say, there were plenty of birds to fill many more limits, than we filled.
Most of the guys shot well over a box of shells, I know, I did and I didn’t shoot on every flock. Just a rough guess there were over 500 shell emptied today. It was tough shooting, but sporting, and I think that everyone had a great time.

Some of you guys better be getting your butt, headed this way and partake in this fun. I just can’t afford shooting all theses shells, and have all this fun while you guys are home, bored with, just watching the NFL, NASCAR, or working your job. I am forced to tell you, that retirement is hell, with nothing to do but hunt.

Did get into one flock of Canada’s. There is a great story about them too. This was before noon. They come in high and put on quite a show, decoying in, pulling across, right behind the blinds maybe 20-25 yards out 15 yds high, when the shot was called. Right in the area where I was shooting about mid point of the flock, they all fell and I dismounted my gun after, just two shots, because I thought they were all on the way down. When the smoked cleared, we had 5 down. That was a shame that we didn’t take more than that, on such a great shot. Later in the afternoon we stated seeing more and more geese. Most were whitefronts and some were Canada's. and this makes us think, that there is some great hunting, in store for us, for the next few days

Now if you have paid any attention to the weather reports, you should know, we have a nice northerly wind for the next 3 or 4 days. So that should mean some great hammering days ahead, so get on the way to here. You have been told.

Will let you go. As always, please say a prayer for the troops tonight

See Ya Carl

Was much dryer, walking into the pits this morning, in fact I am back into my Tennie-waders. What a change. This was I think the second night with out rain in about 10 days. Plenty of stars over head making it an enjoyable walk. The Ducks we flying around as soon as we could see. Harvested just a few, didn’t have many guns so was a little leery on busting into the Pintails. Had a mixed bag flock, come through that the boss was comfortable, letting us going into action on. We placed 3 DIP, on that go around. And I think we got into another flock later. Thought this was pretty good shooting for a down wind shot. My shot was at least 50 maybe 65 yds. See us OSFF, don’t get up as fast as the kids, and with the wind on their tail, them birds get down range fast. I am sure this duck thought he had made it through, this steel curtain, but my pattern had him dead center. Was just a cloud of feathers, rendering this critter GYD. This is when I found out, he was a, LNM.

The most exciting thing of the day was, the Specks was still flying and were quite a bit lower today. We had a few flocks decoy to us but was not able to get any to finish. They have the ability of getting your hopes up and then breaking your heart. It was getting quite warm in the pits, and most wanted to see if the Huskers would play better today, so we come in early. Back to the Huskers, if they play the second half as good as they did the first half, we have a chance, to hold a team under 500 yards for the first time this year.

The weather for tomorrow, should bring more birds and I hope some hunters. There is a chance of a North wind up around 30MPH tomorrow. With the ducks we have in the area, and the possibility of more riding that wind down, also the thought of the Specks and Canada’s moving, with this wind should make for a great day of hunting. I know there is no way I would miss this day in the pits. Unless, Steve needs help moving.

Acronyms:
DIP Dead In Pond
OSFF Old Slow Fat Fart
GYD Grave Yard Dead
LNM Long Nose Mallard

Game is back on, so will let you go. Say a pray for all our hero tonight.

See Ya Carl

Well we had sunshine, blue skies, Brisk Northwest wind, and BIRDS today. Should have harvested more, put had limited out on pintails. And every flock seem to have some pintails in it. But we had all the ducks we could get rid of when we did close up. There was even ducks come in while we had the pits wide open and was cleaning up. With guys standing out side and everything. Was seeing and harvested, a few Mallards along with Teal, Ringneck, Pintail, some divers. But have seen very few Gadwall and Widgeon, so they are yet to come.

On the goose front. We seen several flocks of Specks today and heard even more flocks. All of them were high, but they are on the move. There is a southerly wind forecast for tomorrow, that could make some of them want to decoy. If they ever get down to see the lake, I am sure we will decoy them. We have several spots, they should love to settle into. Also seen one very large flock of Canada’s go down just to the west of us. That was about all of them I remember of, but there was around 150 in that flock. Also had a blue flying around the pits when we walked in and later was setting in the lake. He was chased out of our lake and never made it past the west lake.

Boy is it ever fun to see them, ducks as well geese, decoy into the pond. The boss has out done himself, with this set up. Most shots are right straight up, or the shot I prefer out the front. With the winds we had today, a big part of the decoying, is out front and to the right, so you see it as you set on the seat. But the best part is, the birds are loving the lake too. We seen them pass other spreads and decoy right in to us. I told a guy when he shows up he should ware DEPENDS. Because when he see’s this setup, he is going to pee his pants.

With the sun and wind there was a lot of drying on the path, today, and did that ever help. When you take a step now you stay on top, and don’t sink into the mud a couple of inches. Was so much easier walking out today, than it was going in this morning.

Be sure to say a prayer for all our troops that are serving our country, tonight when you say your bedtime prayers.

See ya and Check back

Carl

There was a near miracle this morning, in Burt County, Nebraska. When we went to the blinds this morning there was a big hole in the clouds and there were stars visible over head in this hole. There was a forecast for strong Northwest winds, and our hopes were high. At that time there was very little wind and what there was, was coming out of the South East.

I took a picture of what was almost a sunrise, but shortly after that things turn and went down hill for the rest of the day. Down to the point that we walked out in the rain and there was a hunter’s car stuck, by the time we got that out, two others and I were about as muddy as you can get.

Later in the morning the wind, did get to blowing out of the Northwest, but only about 10 MPH, and it in some, rain showers.

The past couple of days, we had Garry Mason, out of Tennessee, founder of the Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame, hunting with us and we really, wanted to get him a shot. This was his second trip to our country in the past two seasons, and we had the same type of weather this year as we had last year. He claimed he would return and give us another chance. While here he did interview with Ralph for his TV show. I will do some investigating and see if it is possible for us to view it here in the Heartland. If it is possible I will alert everyone of time, station, ETC. He was on his way to So. Dakota, where he has interest in, a commercial pheasant hunting operation. He has about a month there and then may stop back on his way home.

I have to tell you Ron Cleveland carves some GREAT DECOYS, and last year donated a decoy to this Hall of Fame to be auctions off. It sold real good last year, and he committed to do another one every year for the Banquet. Hank Parker who went into the Hall of Fame with Ralph last year and was Master of Ceremonies for this year Banquet. He also acted as the auctioneer and auction off this decoy. He got $1,000.00 for it this year. I think they got $700.00 for the one he gave them last year. Well, the guy that got the decoy this year, told everyone he was opening the bid for next year's decoy, for $1000.00, right now. He has no idea what it is. Ron has got it done and gave it to Garry while he was here. So if you see Ron, please say something to him about this. Thank you’s and our positive comments is all the payment he gets for his generous gifts.

Better close this, as you can guess we didn’t shoot today, but have clear weather, and high winds coming tomorrow, so everything changes then. The slate has been wiped clean. If you miss tomorrow, you are going to be very very sorry. Why I wouldn’t miss tomorrow for nutt’in.

Remember the troops in your bedtime prayers, and check back tomorrow and see just what you missed.

See Ya Carl

Still getting rain here, has to run out one of these days, don’t it?? Tomorrow, the forecast is a strong Northwest wind. May be up to around 30 to 40 MPH, depending on what forecaster you listen to. My computer says that it may hit 30MPH but it still is saying there is a very high percent chance for moisture with it. But Friday it is to be clearing and still a wind from the Northwest at around 25MPH. Boy-oh-boy, the only way I would miss that, is, if they need some help, moving Steve Pederson out of Nebraska.

Went out this morning and seen a few ducks and a pair of Canada’s. The Can’s have been around the lake, and know just where we are, so take a safe route around us. I have no idea just what the problem the ducks had, but were not interested in our spread.

The Boss thinks that even if there is some rain with the wind tomorrow that it should shake something lose, but when the sun comes it will be Cady bar the door. Sure would like to know some one up north that I could call to see if the Specks are still lingering around up there or did they come through here in the dark. We haven’t seen to many Pintails yet, so that makes you think the Specks are still North too. With this lake set up, we should to talk some of those dudes, into gun range. Haven’t seen any Cormorants for three or four days, so guessing that most of them have moved through.

Must shut down so say a prayer for the troops in your evening prayers and check back

See Ya Carl

Well just so you all know, that I am still alive I will post a new report. We have had a long dry spell in hunting. The weather has been the other way. We have been in a Nebraska monsoon for the past few days. Steve is gone. So we have been hunting short days. We were not even seeing anything so there was nothing to report, except, Steve P got fired. I did write a nice report on Sunday, and when reread it, it was all bragging, on out local High School Softball team, that won the Nebraska State Tournament and complaining about the Nebraska Football team, and this was before Steve got fired, it was nothing about hunting so I didn’t post it. This is a hunting report, and not about other sports, like Steve getting the AX.

As for the hunt today. The rain has let up and the clouds have raised just a little, no sunshine, yet. Seen just a few ducks. Took one big green head, and shot at some Pintails. Come up on them just a little wrong so after all necessary adjustments, missed on shot. Can not get to wild on them because the bag limit is only one, and very easy to get to many down, so we put none down, remaining very safe. Thursdays weather sounds like a shoulder bruising day. Forcast saying, that there will be wind out of the North West, at 30-35MPH.

So hoping that there is something to report on most days from now on. We noticed on the way to town this afternoon that there was big flocks of Doves. This is past the middle of October and there is still Doves in the area, but since they are on the move I am guessing that our birds will not be far behind.

So remember the troops in your prayers tonight and every night, and check back

See Ya Carl

10-10-07

Was a little slower today but it was still a pretty good day. Got into the Canada’s two, no, three times. I can remember, when some spread, got into Canada’s the Kill was shown from one end of town to the other. Now days everyone thinks you should take a dozen everyday. Hunting should never get to that, and everyone should really enjoy each and every bird you harvest. So again, I will start, We had big Canada’s in on us three times today. One flock, was a single and there was a bunch of shots sent his way. Well at least he know just what gun powder smell like, but I bet the smile on his face will be there for a couple more days. The next go-a-round was a flock of three, followed by a pair. All five were placed in our game bag.

I do not remember just how many times we went into action on ducks but we totaled out with an even dozen of them. The ducks was a mixed bag today but there was two green heads among them.

Did see a couple flocks of Pintails. There was not a push of them as some had expected today, but it can’t be to far away. The same applies to the Whitefronts. We did not see any of them today, either. The Cormorant sightings, was slow today also. We are always happy when they, the Cormorants, have pushed through. When they are done, you know when you see something on the horizon, it is fair game.

I just have to tell all of you that have not seen the lake. This has to be one of the best setup we have ever had. If they keep flying the same pattern, that they have the past couple of days, the boss needs to patent this lay out. What a great job he has done on it, this summer. This is a real hunting hole, if it continues this way. Most always the birds will be, visible to the customers, and when they see the birds before the shot is called it is so much easier for them. I just do not have the talent, to describe to you, just how good, the shots have been. When you have to come up and find the birds, and then take your shot, you are just ineffective. I think the past couple days the customers have been shooting great, and I think that is because they know where the birds are before the shot is called. Now I know there is no way that every shot is going to be out front, but I am sure, most will be this year. The loaner this morning that was missed, was behind, when the shot was called, and he did escape out the front, but the customers, didn’t see that bird, until after the shot was called. So you hurry your shot and you miss so you hurry another shot and miss again. If you are shooting back up, like us guides should be, when we see it is getting away, we hurry a shot off and it is not the best either. Well it is all fun and provides us with some laugh, and that is what it is all about.

Looks by the size of this report that I had to much time on my hands so will shut it down. Please say a prayer for all the troops that are serving our country, tonight. Check back and we’ll see ya

Carl

10-9-07

Was a limit taking day. We were very short on guns, but we filled everyone’s limits anyway.

The day open with very few birds in the skies, and all of them were ducks, that have been setting and rousting in the lake. With so few ducks flying around, but we had no idea what the day was to bring.

Finely, the skies were was holding a few pintails, that was on the move. Soon we had a flock of them, in on us, so we all took our limit, while we were picking them up, we had a nice flock of Canada’s drop in. As you can imagine, with men and dogs in the lake, does not lend well to finishing of decoy birds. So they were picked up and every one got settled back on the blind seat, when we were alerted to the fact, that we had a big Canada settling into the decoys. Quick action and a couple loads of steel, he was placed into the game bag, along with our limit of ducks. Then we had one hunter that just had to go do some shopping, so he was sent on his way with birds in hand, but another hunter was on the way out. Good thing because the action was just beginning to heat up. Even with some very bad shooting we still filled the game bag of 4 hunters with big trophy size Canada’s. If we would have had a dozen guns we could have filled there bag as well. After we had limited out, we just set on the blind seat, and watched in awe, as a few more, flocks come in and sat down, with in easy gun range. One time there was a pair that passed over number one pit, so low I am sure you will not believe me, when I say that they were maybe, 50 feet.

These were not big flocks, but they decoyed in so close and so good, that I am sure I will be seeing geese tonight in my dreams. We had our limit, and enjoying the sights, before 11:15. We took just a few blue wing teal, after the that, and pulled up stakes around 3:00. I may be hell to get old, but there is some time great thrill, attached to it too. Yours truly witnessed one them thrills, today.

Have to get this posted, so as always say a prayer for the troops and please check back

Carl

10-8-07

Had a rain over night so it was just a little muddy getting into the pits, this morning. Soon after daylight the Specks were being heard and seen. Seen several nice bunches of Specks, but decoying was not on their mind. I wasn’t feeling good so came back to town for a while. And most of this activity was while I was in town. Right after I got back to the pits, there was a flock of 5 Big Canada’s dropped in on us. When I say dropped I mean dropped in. They come in with the wind, and made a very short hook and into the water, giving us a very short marginal shot, which R K passed on. With a little scheming we got them air born again before putting two DIP. That was some very good shooting for the shot we had.

There was a few teal flying around and there was a nice size flock of about 50 that come racing through and we opened up on them. Not near enough meat to pay for the shells we shot, but it was fun.

The skies were dotted with big flocks of Cameron’s. There seamed to always be a flock some place, on the horizon. Had one flock that come over the lake, some of them even landed. Some come close enough, to the pits, that if we were not very law biding people, they would have ended, feet up in our pond.

Also have to report that after I left the pits on Sunday, they harvested two ducks. I have not got the best info or complete story, so can not give anymore info on this. The only thing I am sure of is; It was not a Aqua Shot. There also, was more than two birds. I think they were Blue wing, So I am guessing that there is something just a little strange, because no one will not even talk about it. Most generally there are 5 guys claiming each and every bird, well there is no one talking, so that alone makes it strange.

Again I must say we are seeing a large amount of Specks, so if you are wanting to be here on a Speck shoot, you better be making some steps to get here. We haven’t seen any big flocks, but when that happens it is to late, to alert you, and you show up. You should be there.

I have neglected to remind you, that DIP means, Dead In Pond

Well remember to say a little prayer for all the troops, that are serving this nation, tonight when you say your bedtime prayers.

See Ya Carl

October 6th, 2007 Opening Day

First day of the 2007 season, and it was a warm one. It is one thing to swat mosquitoes, but wiping sweat at the same time make it a short day. We have not had a frost in the area yet this fall, and as always you really need a good killing frost before the biting critters are asleep for the season.

As what we seen it was just a little exciting. Several bunches of ducks, and there were a few big ducks along with the usual, Teal, Widgeon, Gadwall, Woodies. Etc. Had a couple of chances, at some of them, but did not go. The Goose picture was even more exciting. Had a pair of big boys that passed right over the pit, giving us at best a marginal shot, but thinking they were going to circle for a better shot, passed on that shot. I was gone on the second opportunity. There were 3 in this bunch, and since I was not there, I am not sure just what happened, but understand there was another marginal shot on them too. This three settled into the decoys and escaped un harmed. Seen a single Canada, and I think that wraps up the total excitement on Canada’s.

Now the real exciting news. Had a flock of nine. Another flock of 14 and the third flock of four, Whitefronts. What is going on, are they getting ready to move?? They are a couple of weeks early, but when you start seeing them, they are usually well underway, for their annual push through this area. So keep an eye on this report and also listen to other reports, because they wait for no one when they decide to move, it goes in 2-5 days.

So we didn’t get any shots but all in all, was a fun morning. The sunrise was just a sunrise, so after it was apparent that, the 12:08 flight was not showing up we jumped the ship and come home.

This is the way I am doing it this season. If there is something to report I will write a report, but if nothing I am skipping that evening report.

So as always, Remember the troops in your evening prayers, and check back
See Ya Carl

Preseason Report

With a week and a day or so, before the season open I guess I better, up date you.

Ralph has work almost everyday this past summer, on the lake. And the place shows it. It almost takes your breath away, when you see it for the first time, it is beautiful. I did, get out and helped him on the phone and intercom, but the rest he done all alone. He and Dorothy also painted all the decoys, so they are all ‘show room ready’ too.

This picture was take on the road we took into the pits last season. Looking North West, up towards the west lake. The point on the right to the point on the left is about 75 to 80 yards , The pits are located in the Milo on the left, and we are looking at Pettits lake. Now there is way more lake on past what you can see in this picture. So there is lake you better say all around us. The road leading to the pits is going to provide a wind break for the ducks, and we are hoping we can pull them up over the blind

Ralph has always spoke of being in the middle of the action, well he is there this year. Most of the decoying you will see and still have your BUTT on the seat. When they get down and are coming in for the squat, you may loose them behind you, on some winds, but will be visible again before the: “Take’em”,. command is given. The duck shot should be a straight up shot, and they may not be visible, before the shot, but the goose shot will be right in front or front left. Bring something to wipe off the blood with, because there could be some spatter, this year. For sure, in the spring, on the carp shoot.

I guess I can’t miss it any further than they did on the Nebraska football team, so I am going out on a limb and predict, over 350 dark geese, 4-600 ducks, and over 900 snows and blues in the spring. Does that excite you any??? It is all possible, and most likely happen.

The only work that I know, I have to get done yet is, get my blind loaded. I have most of that loaded in the Red Beast, and ready to go. The most important item, is to have plenty of gun oil, so I purchased a new bottle.

I think I am about ready with the exception I have some food items to purchase for my meals, but have that on the schedule for this coming week end.

I know some of you are wondering just what time we are leaving the Café. So here is a good rule to remember. We can shoot at one half hour before sunrise. So it takes about an hour to drive from town, load on the pickup and drive you to the pits, get everyone into the pits, then go park the pick up and walk back. So if we leave the Café about 1½ hours before sunrise, everything will work. So allow yourself some time to eat Breakfast, if your eating, and you will be on schedule. Flo is ready for us at the café and feeds you pretty quick, and her prices are good, so if you can, please give her some business. I just check the sunrise sunset chart and for October 6th sunrise is 7:25, therefore we should be leaving town about 6:00.

Well the time is getting close where some of you may have a problem with a good night sleep, with all the dreaming of a fruitful season. That is excepable, but, before you get in that bed please remember all the Men and Woman, that are serving our country in your prayers.

See Ya Carl

Preseason Report

Need to up date you guys, on the happenings that are of interest to us hunters .

First off I am sure some of you know, but there could be many of you that don’t. Our old friend, and fellow hunter, Ed May, picked up his duck call and done some practicing. Got feeling pretty good about himself and entered the Nebraska Duck Calling Contest again. Took all the Marbles Again. Now this sport requires some wind and teenagers, and young guys have more wind, than people past 45 years old do. I forget the exact number of years older he was to the next oldest contestant, but everyone else was just a kid, compared to, our Ed. I am not saying that Ed is over the hill, but when you are competing in this sport you have a lot of competition that are teenagers and young adults. Well our old buddy showed them all up, and walked off with the big trophy. Way to go Ed. And congratulations.

Ralph has reworked the lake again this year. If you ever wanted to hunt, out in the middle of a lake, you are going to have the opportunity for that experience, this season. This set up, the Game and Parks may rule that we have an unfair advantage over the geese. Should be right in the middle of the action. The setup is not far from where we hunted last season, but you inter the lake down by the outhouse, and take a path up to the pits. Should be the first season where face mask, are required. Not camo face mask, so the birds don’t see you, but something to keep the muddy water out of your eyes, when they come splashing back, DIP.

I guess this paragraph should have been the first, but it is so far back in our mines, we don’t talk about it. How is Ralph doing ?? Ralph is doing great, he looks so good. He works like there is no tomorrow. I really believe he looks 15 years younger since his attack. There is no way to describe him other than to say it is unbelievable the way he has comeback. I told him I was keeping notes to eulogize him at his funeral, but had thrown them all away, because I won’t be there. I’m an Elm, and he is a Oak tree, is the only way, I know to describe him. I got bigger faster, but will fall and rot away, and he will still be growing.

Just found the season, for 2007. They set them today We open a little later than I thought we would, I was guessing Sept 29th.

Canada Goose.
Oct. 6 - Jan. 18
3 geese
Twice the daily bag.

Snow and Blue
Oct. 6 - Jan. 6 and Jan. 26 - Feb. 6
20 geese
None

White front
Statewide
Oct. 6 - Dec. 16
2 geese
Twice the daily bag.

Ducks
Low Plains Early
Oct. 6 - Dec. 16 and Dec. 22-23
Pintail duck season closes Nov 13th for us here in our zone

Better close this, Check back
We'll see ya, and remember the troops in your prayers, as always
Carl

KOHLER BANQUET

For those of you that missed the Kohler Banquet last evening, you missed one great evening. We had a hic-up or two along the way, but was a very enjoyable evening.

The meal was just about as good as you could expect. Of course us real country folk, get the feed bag on just a little earlier, than city folk do. And as I have said many times, “skinny folk can eat any time, but you have to feed us fat folk on time”. By the time the food made it to the table, I was worried that I just may pass out, because of malnutrition. I lucked out and they got it there just in a nick of time. Wow, was it worth waiting for. I had the Prime Rib, and it was just perfect.

Had of around 50 people, some of the guys didn’t bring there wives, but those wives that did show up, I am sure, had a great time.

We had a Video, that is to hit your TV screen some time later this summer. This was recorded and produced, by Gary Howey. It took you through a day of hunting, starting in the café early in the morning, trip to the pits, as well as some shot, on birds. He also worked in a great interview with Ralph, giving you a story of his life, as a waterfowl guide. This covered, from River days to present day, Decoy manufacturing, lake building, blind building ETC. He even had some questions on the Hall of Fame.

I will try to keep you informed as to when it is to be played on TV. I thought it was a very good film. We had a another Film we were to show, and this was Ralph acceptance speech that he made in Nashville. But we had some problems with that, and could not get it to play. Now this a promise, we will resolve these problems and show it next year. I am so sorry that this did not work, because this is what made us ask for a copy of Gary Howey’s show, was the fact, we had all the equipment there so why not have a bonus and show Gary’s show too.

We had a laugh or two, over some great stories, and of course it was good to see everyone again. Not much else to report, other than the fact Ralph is making just one great recovery. I think it is safe to say, the Dr. has turned him loose. And has given him the OK to start to do some work again. So he is very up beat over this. I think the man looks younger, since his attack, and I am sure he is feeling much better.

Remember the Kids that are protecting all our rights, tonight and every night in your prayers

See Ya Carl

Updates and Announcements

Sorry I haven’t got around to an update before today. But I been just a little to busy, and some if the info in this report, has not been finalized until this morning.

Ralph has been in therapy, and everything is going as expected. He is over heating the treadmill, and the therapist is scratching his head and wondering just why this 45 year old man is claming he is 89. He still is complaining about his new diet, and pills. Dorothy says she feels like a new bride, because the girls cleaned her cabinets (and if they thought Dad shouldn’t have it, it is gone) she said, she has to learn to cook all over again. I would guess she hasn’t looked at a cook book in years and now she has all new receipt she has to follow. I feel she has done a pretty good job, if it took 71 years to plug an artery. Ralph told me the other day that he had another truck load of pill showing up again, at the end of the month. He has not lost his sense of humor.

We have, picked up the decoys. I guess it is better to say it this way. Since it got cold and the lake was froze hard enough, that I could walk in it with my tennie-waders, I contacted Dax (because he had some decoys, there too). So that job is done and Ralph can quit worrying about them.

The next update is on the Kohler Annual Dinner. Now remember if you want to come you are invited. Just because you didn’t get a formal invite, that is no sign you can’t come and party with us. There is a couple of rules you have to obey. No.1 is: No waders or Cammo, are allowed.

No. 2 Your hunting dog is not part of the party.

Time, date, and location is:

I put them down backward.

Locations is at: Anthony’s Steakhouse @ 72 and F street, in Omaha.

That is just one block off the Interstate, so that is handy for everyone

The date is: May 4^th.

The time is: Refreshments at 6:00

Dinner is at 6:45.

Now if that is not enough incentive, to show up, I think the program will be great this year. This is not written in stone, but it has been discussed, that we should show, Ralph speech, he made in Nashville, when he accepted his induction into the hall of fame. Also, there has been, two hunting show that was shot at the blinds this past fall, One of these hunts, the one shot by Gary Howie, which will be shown on National TV later on this year, may also be shown there. In Hollywood this referred to a premier showing, right?? This will not be a rerun. So with all this exciting news, mark your calendar, and reserve the evening of May 4^th, and show up at Anthony’s for a great evening with a true Legend of the Outdoors.

Ralph will, most likely bring us up to date on the past season, may even brag on the quality of the shooting his guides turned in and I am sure he will have some other humorous jabs, to pass on about the events of the past hunting season.

Now also Remember the real reason for this Dinner, is to say thank you to your significant other. See, she allowed you to go hunting, now it is time for you, to say Thank You for all those day. You reward her with a nice evening out on the town. Bring her along. She will enjoy the evening. Remember, She can’t ware cammo or waders.