The last Fall update

Above picture is from a few days ago, one of my favorite subject, the other I best not say, but we all see then daily, in both small and large towns.

Well the word is that the fat lady has been singing for several days now. What I am saying it is "over" and I should have gotten this posted before the end of the week, but I don’t always get thing done when I should. We had our family Christmas, this week end so my thoughts went there.

The boss has picked up all the decoys and has got his blind cleaned out. I am planning on making that move sometime when it warms up a little later this week. I have some cans of soup that may be frozen and broke open so need to get there before it warms enough to melt.

Back to the season, it was not the productive season I was thinking we were going to have when all the rain was falling in October. For years I have said that when it gets muddy, and there are deep tracks with water standing in them you shoot ducks. We had that for a while, and we never did see, a great number of ducks. I hear that just a few miles north and west of our pits on some of the, wetlands restorations projects, that there were good numbers of ducks staying, and hunters in those areas had good hunting, but they didn’t move, or feed in our area. We had several good days on Canada’s, and some of those days, there was some top 10 shots. Not top ten for the year but for ever. Last year on Dec. 2nd, there was a shot, that I thought would never be equaled, but the Shot on Dec 14th, may have equaled it. Dec 2 there were 300 birds, and Dec 14th there were only 30 birds, but both, the anticipation of the shot, and feeling, your old heart pounding in your chest, waiting for the command, was about the same. The birds, gave us such a show, on both flocks, that will keep memories in my mind for as long as "our maker" will allow.

And as always there were the people, that graced my pit, that also help make it a great year. And I want, to say thanks to all of them too, so Thank You guys, you made it fun. And a big thank you to all of you readers, for your E-Mail comments, you make it so much easier, to type, even if you are tired. Had a short visit with the "Sand Bar hunters" of Muck Bottoms, and we shared some stories about the season and the fun in keeping you posted and his feeling are the same, that you guys make it so much fun to do this. I know that is not, a sand bar they hunt, but muck does not describe it, either. That stuff is boot glue, and makes long leg hunters out of short leg hunters, by the way it hanging on.

Now keep checking because there should be some up dates as we get ready for the Spring shoot.
So to all of you: MERRY CHRISTMAS and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR. Also please remember say a prayer for all the Military personnel that give us this freedom, to enjoy our hunting, and Merry Christmas to all your guys too. You’re the best.

As I said please keep checking back.
See ya Carl

As we drove to the pits we had the warmest part of the day, and I am not for sure, but the wind was already blowing. It may have got higher ,but not much . The thermometer kept dropping throughout the day and it was brutal. Had hunter’s that reported it was around 45 degrees when they started their travels to Tekamah and it was 19 when got here. Had these reports from hunters, both from Omaha as well as Lincoln. Was able to keep the blinds reasonably comfortably.

We didn’t even put out the duck decoys, because it was apparent they would be covered with ice, and look worst than nothing at all. Was into the day maybe 15 minutes when in come about 15 mallards, and not many were ready for a shot, so only harvested, one bird. With in about another 45 minutes or so here come a flock of about 30 big boys. We sent them a welcoming song and they responded like it was 4:00 in the afternoon. Didn’t take them long to get down to landing level, but it seem like it took 10 minutes for them to pull up to the water hole, and for the shot. Now this sight has to rank "high" as one of the most beautiful sights of the year. They were about 10-20 yards out in the lake and only about 6-12 feet high, when the boss turned us loose. We did ourselves proud. He was wanting another 10 birds to get the count up to over 200 geese for the year. When we got them picked up we had eleven. Later on in the day we added another Canada and also took a snow goose. This brought our total up to 13 geese for the day, and about par for the dark geese. I am sure you are aware that a few years back, several hundred Snow and Blues, were par, but that has changed and this season, we have to be happy with around a dozen of those dudes.

I can not give you any info on the rest of the season, but tomorrow the 15th we are not going to hunt. It is just to cold for the boss. Most likely it is not wise for him to breath that super cold air, and he just has to watch the whole time he is out there. So if wishing to hunt, it is best to talk to him, for such info. His number if 402-374-2747. There should be some stuff moving, yet, but it sure makes for a long day, when you go into action only a time or two a day.

I will make a posting whenever I have some info, that you may find interesting.
So in the mean time, remember the troops in all your prayers and check back

See Ya Carl

Bazing away in a Blizzard

Doing this by phone. When we met at the shed, this morning. Reports were placing the snow fall between 2 to 3.5 inches and the wind was making it look and feel like a good old Nebraska blizzard. The boss taking pity on me, because of this cold or flu that I have been fighting for a week now, sent me home. I did not argue, and wished 5 hardy soles off, they went for the pits. I back the red van out and headed back to town, through almost whiteout, at times, and found my warm, cozy, recliner, and soon was off into dream land and working on getting better.

When I awoke around noon, I had to check up on them, if for no other reason, to see if they were in need of a rescue unit. To my surprise, They were hammering in a blizzard. The boss told me that they took two of the closes shots of the season. They had been into two different flocks and if it wasn’t for picking up their birds they may have been into another flock. If I understand it right the birds got down wind from the blinds and got down about 20 feet off the lake’s surface and pumped right up over the pits, heading right for the water hole, out in front of the pits. They had taken 9 birds out of the two flocks. Ralph also reported that they were seeing numerous, flocks, some low and some very high. He also added that these were the biggest geese he has ever seen. There is a scales in my pit but didn’t get it out, but he was sure there were two that was over 14 pounds. He also stated that their breast was a different color than usual, if I understood they were much lighter that most.

Believe me when I say they earned them birds, because it just has to be miserable out there. Temps in the low teens and wind chill below zero.

To bring you up to date on the activity, since my last posting. Was not to much action. I was running on one cylinder so I was taking it easy when I got home, but we took one goose on Saturday, and I think that about covers the kill.

Again , please remember the troops in your bedtime prayers and check back

See Ya Carl

Three in one today

This is going to be a three day report, to get you up to speed.

Sunday. I had a social engagement, with a meal attached so you know I am going to that. It was past my bedtime when I got home, so plans were made for a two report on Monday. Sunday was not the most productive day, and we totaled out with just a pair of Canada’s.

Then on Monday Dec 1 2008, we had some shooters, and I do not mean in numbers, they were dead eyes. Now remember the weather. Was a wind chill of about 10-12, and the lake was forming little pads of ice and the wind was blowing them down, till something stopped then like older ice. We had a great water hole out around the decoys, but the lake was slowly filling with ice. On the first go-a-round there were 6 birds and they took 4 of them. And the ice was not to much of a problem on that group of birds. The first flight was about 11:05 and at 1:05 the exciting bunch come into play. They were going down just to the west of us, but we got on the horns and convinced about 35 of the flock of about 125-150 to come along. This group were out in front and lead the way all the way. The first pass they gave us a borderline shot, but our crafty boss, passed on them even though they were looking like they were going to land. A few well timed blast on the horn and they pulled out and circled back, and come right over the pits at about 25-yard shot. When the smoke cleared we had, 8 in the pond, and three sailors. Now this is where the "report" of this report comes into play. Since this ice was not very thick, and Dutch ( Lyle’s dog) could not walk on it, and it is so much work to break on each and every step. Some of the birds were near the east side, and after a couple of trips through this he started thinking just how to make this easier for him. He went across and picked up a dead one, and on the way back started herding one that had a broken wind and was hurting in that leg, but could still walk. If the goose turned to the left Dutch would turn that way and kept herding this bird from about center of the lake to just a few yards from the shore when he got to closeer and the ice broke under the goose and he caught up to it. First he tried to bring them both in, but soon figured he could do that and brought in the live bird and then returned for the dead one. Lyle’s dog has come so far this year, he is turning into a real asset.

Monday Dec 2 2008 The first anniversary of the big day last year when we took 79, and this old boy was sick. Was coming down with what ever it was before we shut down last night and was sick all night so stayed home today. So this part will be done by phone. R K tells me that they have only taken 2 so far today. If that changes will include it in the next report.

Say a prayer for the troops and please check back

See Ya Carl

Todays HIGHLIGHTS

Everyday there are highlights ,and on some days there are HIGHLIGHTS. Today we had HIGHLIGHTS. It all started early with 6 ducks decoying in so fast, they landed in the decoys just off the end blind. Ralph said over the speaker "you guys, in end blind, take them ducks". Well they did not get up fast enough and did not shoot fast, and all ducks escaped. The Boss gave lessons, When you get up on birds go fast and shoot fast because that may scare them so bad that they don’t get organized and we may all get a shot. Later in the day the same thing happened with a goose. So the command was given, and the end pit sprang to life. Steel, wads, water spraying high, and plenty of smoke. When the smoke cleared, there it lay D I P------a decoy, but some one noticed, there was a band on this decoy, and depression quickly changed to glee, we got a banded decoy, in the bag.

They tried to explain it is tough to figure out, just how much shot drift and lead, you have to figure in, with a sitting goose, with a tough wind we had today of about .003 MPH, at your back. They are supposed to send pictures of shooters and battered decoys, but have not arrived at time of this posting. Maybe tomorrow!!!!

Later today we had another single duck, Boss called shot long, so no chance of bird landing in decoys. Was total of warm bodes, in game bag for the day.

Would not miss tomorrow for nuttin. Should have some good wind.

Remember the men and women tonight in your prayers.

Please check back and See Ya Carl

Slow hunt, But a great game

The first thing, I need to do is correct yesterdays report. I made a mistake on the number of birds taken. I have corrected it but if you arte not going to read it again you will never know. We took 6 ducks not 7 and we had 7 Canada’s not 4. For the life of me I have no idea just what I was thinking, when I put down them numbers.

Now for today’s action. No wind what so ever, for as long as we were out there. The worst thing, we had very little water and if you try to open it up with no wind, there is all the little chips of ice that the boss does not like. We had one flocks of Canada’s, that could see that the ice was thin and would not hold them, and we just could not get them down. That hurt because, there was not many birds flying around, so to miss out on this flock, really hurt. Earlier, we did get into a pair that was flying up the river and we got them to come look at us, and we took both of them. The ducks were not to be found today.

Give up the hunt and come to the house to watch Bo’s Boys, bump heads with the Colorado Buff. Had to wait till this thriller was over to complete and post this. What a KICK. Bo’s Boys are on the way

Say a prayer for the troops and maybe say a little thanks for the great kick.
See ya Carl

The Nontraditional Traditional Thanksgiving Hunt

The traditional Thanksgiving hunt, was not the traditional hunt, as in the past, 6 to 8 years. Usually it is me, my grandson’s and a few close friends. My oldest Grandson has advanced on to collage in South Dakota, and I was sure he was not planning on purchasing a license for a one day hunt, so had spaced it off. Well late in the day yesterday RK thought I was hunting and told a couple of other members that if they wanted to show up he would just join the group. So I made a phone call to the collage kid and he said he was planning on the hunt, but would not shoot. With that info, I knew his, not so little brother, would join us too. Made another call to another grandson’s house and He and his Dad would join us. A couple more friends and we had the group together. So we all met at the shed at the proper time and made our venture to the pits. Eleven warm bodies snuggled into the pits. We made our breakfast of Hashbrown’s, Sausage, and eggs. And figured we were in for the traditional hunt for Thanksgiving. Just a few ducks, teasing us and some excitement over some geese, that refused to decoy. (One year we had a big flock that come into the lake and was landing, without calling, and that was the only shot ever on geese). Well today we had the Boss I his seat, so things went just a little different. We got into ducks two times and geese two times. Every other year we have had ice covering the lake so, retriving was a job that could be done in tennie waders.

We seen several bunches of geese and I want to say, not to many ducks, fewer than in the past. But we put more in the bag this year than ever before. We ended up with 6 nice Mallards and 7 Big Canada’s. Now before you take the shoes off and start to count, 11 hunters, 4 go-a-rounds 11 birds??????? The Boss don’t take a gun, just 2 kids shooting, I was not shooting, one Dad that don’t hunt Waterfowl, And on a couple of go-a-rounds we had lost ½ of the total crew. We did good.

Was a fun day, SureShot had got all the pictures he wanted, therefore no planes, bird that decoyed, no IDIOT shooting to scare birds, just a fun day.

Have to cleanup for Thanksgiving supper, so remember all the members of the milatary, that are off protecting us, in your prayers tonight, and please check back

See Ya Carl

A total Disaster

Today was a total disaster, from daylight on. Just before it was legal we had 3 geese that come in, in total silence and settle into the decoys. They escaped unharmed, next was a flock of 15-20 that decoyed in behind the pits and we thought they were going to make another round. The boss called the shot unexpectedly we took 2. Then it got really ugly. Had four nice flocks, ranging from 10 to about 50, all decoying in just great, only to be driven out by an airplane. We thought it was some Peta group. This plane we first spotted south about over Olson’s spread. It was circling and diving all the way up the valley, had reports, as far north as Decatur. Was in our area almost for an hour. We would have a flock coming in and here would come that plane a drive them out. It got so close to us that we got the ID numbers off the side and off the wing. So we called the Law and launched a complaint. We gave then the ID numbers and we also had someone to contact the G&P. We watched as it kept up the same pattern over all the spreads up through the bottom. The Sheriff even brought out the paper work so all could make statements and sign. The Sheriff as well as the Game and Parks were both investigating, and found out it was a plane doing some picture taking for some atlas or something like that, hired by the county. Well we had 14 customers, and that was not to pleasing to them to have their day of hunting destroyed. We should of put a minimum 15 more birds in the bag, and just maybe limited out on big Canada’s today. If that was not enough, we had another 75 right down in there with just seconds to go before shooting and the Idiot, that hunts Pettit’s Shot one shot, and spooked them out of there. We just may have to Call the law on him too. He is out of the City and thinks he owns 2/3 of Burt county, and is always doing something to upset some hunters in the area. We had been turning the other cheek for a couple of years and just maybe forced to take other action.

Well most of the guys got depressed and headed home, so we closed up shop and come to the house.

Well all of you have a great Thanksgiving and please say a prayer for all the hero’s that are not going to share a meal, with there love one, while protecting us, and our rights.

Check back and See ya Carl

Oh Can-a-da Oh Can-a-da

Have you ever wondered just why we hit the pits so early in the morning. It is always very dark and we just set there for 20-30 minutes. Well it was all explained this morning. We had got our butts and gear into the pits, lit the burners, poured the coffee, but all the time we had some geese circling the spread. Several times offering great shots, if only it was legal times. With about 20 minutes to go till legal this group started to settle into our spread. It was so neat (cool, as the kids would say) to hear the ones on the pond to talk to the one in air. There was a single that was, way out East of the blinds, that was what I would define as coo-ing and there was one on the pond calling back with the traditional honk, while all the rest were just chattering. We got them up but they turned the wrong way, and we managed to harvest only two of them. On another flock of about 75, that must have had us located and just managed to stay out of range, they got into the pond too. This flock got out of there unharmed. However we did have several go-a-round on them. I did not asked just how many times we went into action before we pulled up and come to the house, about a half hour early. We were a few birds short of a limit for all the hunters. We had 13 guns and we ended up with 27 Canada’s, we were so sure we could limit out, but they just quit flying to quick. I guess there is also a chance that we didn’t kill enough when we had the birds too.

The ducks is another story. We made the most of all the opportunities, on them. I think there was two singles and then a nice flock that we took a total of 11 mallards.

So there is no way other than to say that it was a top ten day, any way you cut it. The Canada's were all the big birds and they were all above average for size, too. We did not weigh all of them but they all were over 10 lbs, and some hitting near 13 lbs.

Best get posted. So remember all the troops, in your prayers tonight.

Check back and we will see ya Carl

It is beginning to look better for hunting

Had what was a great big push of Snows and Blues. We just had to see over a 100,000 birds ourselves, and there had to be some both east and west of us, that we didn’t see.. It was almost a steady stream from early morning to about 3:00, when we got a wind change. RK received, a call from someone that, made a phone call to Sand Lake, and they confirmed the Snows and Blues were moving out of there, and we have the feeling that everyone of them moved out today. Makes you wonder if there isn’t some weather change coming soon. We will have to wait and see on that point.

There was also some ducks on the move to. Seen many large flock bucking the wind. We heard, all the hunting spreads north of us, was filling their limits early this morning. We did not see many decoy-able ducks in our area.

The Canada’s, was another story. First off this morning we had a flock of 50 Cacklers give us a great look. We thought that this was going to be the day on them, but that was the last flock of just Cacklers we seen. When the wind changed, (3:00) we started to see the big old boys. After a minor adjustment on the decoys we got them to respond. But still had hard luck on them. You know when you plan on wiping out a flock, most of the time over half fly out. Well it happened here today. We had lost most of the guns, and were down to just 3 guns. Each gun holds 3 shells. Each hunter can take three birds, right??? So 3X3 equals 9, and that was exactly the number of birds that was in this flock. Now they were coming in low and slow, kinda quartering with the wind. At extreme range, 25 yards, but turning right in front of the pits. The boss call the shot, shots flew, and so did 7 of them damn birds. I know there was one hurt, but I guess not to bad. There is still a big argument as which birds fell. I was not in any one’s lane, cause I took the left birds and I was the left gun. The biggest problem is with the Right hand gunner. See, Post-mortem on one he is claiming, proved he died from an red shell and not a gray shell. You don’t find gray shell in ol’War Eagle. That guy is a problem, at times like this. We did see several flocks after that, but again had some decoy problem. We moved them to another place on the lake and closed up shop. But before we left the area we had some settle into the pond, and we are hoping they freeze in tonight and maybe we can put a few in the bag in the morning.
Remember the young men and women that are serving this great country, with a prayer tonight

Check back and we’ll see ya Carl

Was a good push of birds but not much looked

T’was slow again today, even though, it was a fun day. As you can see from the picture above, there were strange things going on at Kohler’s Pond today. The young lady (Mindy Olson, for those of you that don’t know her) baked this cake for me. You can’t read the writing on top, but it was because, I turned another year older today. Also had a young hunter that was hunting with us today, that turned another year old also, (think he turned 13) I am slightly older than that. We have celebrated, our B’Days the past four years together in the blind. So the crew pigged out on B’Cake. Thanks Mindy for your thoughtfulness, you are a jewel in my eyes.

As for the hunting, Had just one flock of ducks and one flock of four geese in on us today. They cleaned out the ducks, the geese, we placed two D I P.

Had a major movement of Sky Carp today. Not a one even as much give us a good look. Also seen pretty good movement on ducks and they were almost as stuck up as the S&B’s were. As for the Canada’s, we did see several flocks, some did give us a look, but not a good look. I guess you have to say that the group of 4 did give us a fair look, or we would not of had a shot at them.
As you know this is Saturday night and I have to take my bride out for a meal, and a Toddy, so best get this posted and go treat, Mommy.

As always say a prayer for all the troops tonight.

Please check back
See Ya Carl .

Shot like pro's today

Things went just a little better, today. First off the harvesting was so good that not one bird flew out on us today, that got in gun range, and that was legal. Early early this morning we had 3 loons, three ducks and one Canada all in the decoys. All left before it was legal to shoot.
We had a hard freeze as well and a heavy frost and geese don’t get up that early so the Boss had not cleaned the frost off. With the weather forecast, why would you?? Suppose to have some winds and clear skies, dark birds and sun and it should be done my Mamma Nature, and geese don’t move much before 9:00AM.

About an hour into the day we had a nice flock of Big Canada’s come from the Northwest and low. And I mean low. Well they didn’t like frosty decoys and got higher when they got to them and just out of range when they went over, the pits. Also didn’t have the best water hole for them either. So we talk this all over, and say it was a complete fluke that they showed up at that hour, and guess what?? Here comes 4 more. Same song, same verse, and they flew out. Then a little later we had 2 big Canada’s drop in and they stayed. A little latter we had a young Blue drop in and we took care of him too.

The picture was this morning sunrise. Have to confess it was better than the picture

Around noon with the wind and the warm weather the ice got to moving in the lake a was causing all kinds of decoy problem so Rob-Bob and Ralph, pulled all the decoys and they all are on the bank, now. Pulled the plug, and come to the house.
This about all the news from the pits today, so remember the troops tonight, and please check back.

See Ya Carl

Short but deadly crew

Well, today there is an amazing story to be told, about this hunt. The setting is of course the Kohlers Pits, loaded with just five experienced but deadly hunters. The bird activity was pretty slow but as we sat there with great confidence, that any thing that would come along, was in a world of hurt. This crew, will be given alias to protect the innocent. There was Stretch, Chief Sharp-Eye, Sugar Maker, killer karl, and Crusty ol’ Dude with a clicky clack. Now I have covered for Crusty ol’ Dude for years. The first activity was there were four Mallards Drakes that buzzed the decoys, so the boss got on the horn and made them circle for another chance at them. He called the shot and we jumped and there was about 5 shot and there were four green heads DIP, For you that don’t remember that means Dead In Pond. Needles to say everyone’s shirt shrunk a couple of sizes. I am sure you know it is tough to shoot with a tight shirt and all were to proud to loosen their shirt by unbuttoning. As luck would have it along came a small flock (7) geese. Decoyed in beautiful, I could hear Ralph telling Crusty ol’ Dude to be ready, because they were coming right over the top of the pit. Well, I just had to peek and looked for them so I could inform my crew, of their where about . I got out a little to far and could not move back. As six of these birds passed right over my head, but off to the side there was a straggler, that was a real long shot(60 yards) for me, but very close to Crusty ‘ol Dude. Since I have help him out most of the time, my plan was to knock this one down and, then turn and dump a couple more into the pond. Now remember, my shirt was so tight, I just plain missed on the first shot and took another shot, and then another, and he flew off. I must say, he was severely injured, and to the point that, him seeing Kansas is doubtful. I was very upset and hurt because, I am sure they are the first shots I have missed all fall, and all because I was to proud to unbutton a shirt. With the earlier history of this wrecking crew, and the number of shot that I had heard behind me, I was scared to turn and see all the feathers floating down. Then I heard some grumbling so I checked, and could not believe what I was seeing. I could not find one bird in the pond. This added to the depression I was feeling, and was really hurting, when Crusty ‘ol Dude, with the clicky clack, has the audacity, to claim that I scared that bird so bad, that it made it impossible for him or any hunter to hit it. He also was upset because I was shooting his lane. I was guilty of this, but I was doing my best to do a good deed, with him in mind, and here, he was cursing me. Well I asked where were the dead birds. Sugar Maker, said he just plain missed, but Chief Sharp-Eye, claimed that the blind was so warm and the barrel of his smoke pole warped. But the best excuse was, Stretch, said he was taking a nap and didn’t get a shot.

That was the total for the day, Should have had 7 Geese and 4 ducks but just got the mallards.

Say a prayer for the troops and please check back
See Ya Carl

A day to Watch the birds.

Not to many birds on the move today, however the ones that were give us a better look than the birds we seen yesterday. The shot in the wind was more than sporting. Had two go-a-rounds on geese, and faired good only once. The ones we got down were trophy birds. The biggest one pushed my scales to just over 13 lbs. and the others were between the 10. and 11 lbs. With the wind we took only four. They escape so fast, and they are a tough bird too.

Again I just have to say, that God has blessed me, several times by providing the sight we had today on both bunches of geese. The first was ten big ones and the other was five small (Cacklers). With the wind in the northwest like it was today they decoyed in, in full view of us in the pits. What a sight it is to see those birds, with wings lock, feet down, and a squawk ever once in a while and settling into the spread. If that don’t get the old heart pumping, just as well tell them, to start shoveling the dirt.

On the Cacklers, we just missed. Seams like I am getting good at that any more. I was not ready to jump when the command was given, and if you don’t get a quick shot you don’t have much of a shot. We had another flock of seven Cacklers that was coming in and a plane took care of them. Almost got them back but didn’t.

May have been a short bag day but was a very good watching day, so have to say it was fun just the same.

Please remember the troops tonight, and please check back
See Ya Carl

They were tough today

We had some sunshine today. Wasn’t for all day but at least there was some for a period of time. If nothing else it lifted our spirits some.

As for the bird action, our harvesting was slow again today. But the birds were not cooperating to good. They just did not let down today. From the phone calls, sounded as if everyone was having the same problem. This is so hard on the Boss. He just don’t like a goose to pass us by. He, thinks the customers are upset with him, because they got away and they didn’t get a shot. There is very few that ever complain. And it is not hard to see he works hard for a shot, regardless of the out come. Today was just a tough day for him.

I had to come in early, we have a family get together tonight, so if I make the appointment, I had to vacate early. When I left there was only two geese and two ducks in the bag.

Please remember to say a prayer for all the young hero who are fighting for us, in your bedtime prayer, tonight.

See Ya Carl

Wet but Fruitful

We had about a full gamut, of weather today. When I left the house this morning, at about 5:00 it look like a wonderful day of weather. The moon was out in all it’s splendor, almost overpowering the street lights, here on my street. There were a few clouds, but not looking to threatening. Hit the café for my morning coffee and to meet the hunters, before we got out to the farm, to begin our mud trip to the pits, it had clouded over. After we settled into the pits, poured the first cup, waiting for it to get legal, we were scrambling for the fiberglass panels, to cover up with to hold off the rain drops. During the not so brief rain, guess at least ½ inch, there was duck everywhere. Not many really wanted to settle into the decoys, but they were there. When the rain quit, and the panels were back in storage there was, few ducks, and the ones left would not cooperate, with the calls or the decoys.

Also during morning the Sky Carp, were on the move. We had received report that there was 300,000, of them in the Sand lake area in South Dakota. We know we never seen every bird but we seen huge flock after huge flock below the clouds and are sure there had to be that many in and above. Later on in the day when there were a few holes in the clouds, you could see flock that must have been at least 40,000 feet up. If it had not been for the sun shining on their white bellies, you would have know they were there. So I am guessing that most of the 300,00 moved south today.

The picture was taken late in the afternoon when the sun found a hole in the clouds and lit up the river tree line as well as our decoys. I don’t think that at the pits we ever cast a shadow.

What action we got today, was all small flocks of geese. The way we shot, it was best, that way too. I am not for sure but I think we had 5 go-a-rounds and ended up with a whapping 14 Canada’s. It was just plain fun, even if we didn’t shoot good. Now I am not saying we never wiped out a small flock, because we did, but it took time and shells.

Best get this posted so remember the troops in your bedtime prayers, and please check back.
See Ya Carl

We escaped before the moisture settled in.

Had plenty of open water this morning and early we were seeing enough bird to give us hope of, a shooting day was in store for us, today. Got a shot before sunrise in a small flock of ducks. Also had a big Can, floating over head, along with a few we could see navigating the river. Well as the day progressed, fewer and fewer birds were seen. After noon we did drop a teal in the pond, out of a pair, and that was the total action for the day. We escaped, the pits, before the rain and sleet arrived.

Sounds like we have some weather coming in, for the next couple days, so we will see what that brings, us for birds.

Please check back and until then be sure to say a prayer for the troops and we will see ya
Carl

Big Birds again

Well this is a little late, tonight but I had a meeting I had to attend before I could write.

We had ice this morning. It was about ½ inch thick. So the crew had to open a spot for the decoys. With the wind there was plenty of ice on the decoys too, that need cleaning off too. I am going to include a picture of big geese that we took, in the early morning shot. The boss going out to help bring in some of our trophy's. The third day in a row with Canada’s taken.

As to the happening today. We got into a few ducks, and one flock of Canada’s. The Canada shot was just exactly what the boss thought was a chocolate shot., but a our staff of gunners made the best of it and we downed 7, out of about 15 birds. Now I do not feel that is not to bad of shooting, because they were on the turn, but were just right out in front of us. They were some big birds. However we did not weight any of them. Again I have to comment about the number of Mallards we are seeing this fall. Almost like past season of yesteryear. They are not giving us all the shot we are wanting but we are seeing them, just the same. Also the percentage of drakes has backed off just a little of what it was a couple a weeks ago. But with a little slower day, than the past couple have been we still took around 10 today.

I was hurried last evening, and didn’t get to think of just what I wrote, and what I left out. I had completely forgot to say that the Snows and Blues were on the move yesterday. We also, seen a few flocks of them today but nothing like yesterday. One other thing about today’s birds, they were much lower than they were yesterday. Most of our birds were in the clouds when we seen them and today we had birds that were out looking for food, over finding a place to stop at, for a rest. I still get almost breathless to see then big boys, turn back into the wind and never move a wing as they descend into the spread. Sometimes talking all the way and the next time a little less vocal.

Well I best get my night time prep, for tomorrow. So till the next report keep the troops in your prayers

See Ya Carl

Empty shell boxes in the trash tonight

Was a little slow in the morning with just a few ducks giving us a look. With the wind as high as it was, we had a problem getting the duck decoys set to where we could get a shot. Once they conquered that problem, the fun begun. Again only the fist and second shot may have hit it’s mark, but we had fun filling the sky with steel, anyway. Then shortly past noon the goose choir tuned up and the Canada’s, started to decoy. Again I just have to marvel at the sights, of these magnificent birds decoy into our spread. I have been blessed with viewing this sight several times in my life time and I know I am very lucky, to be granted this privilege. They just can hang there in that wind and sometimes they drop their feet way out off the lake, as the settle into your spread. We did have a few Cacklers, but the majority was the big birds. Also the bag had, about two geese for every duck and that is about the same ratio on harvest from each flock. Not for sure on either because they were out trying to pick up a couple of sailors, and am not sure of the final count. I can tell you that we had about 30 Canada’s and about 18 ducks. Now that may have changed some on their attempt on the ones that sailed out. I know they come in with some but I was involved in the picture taking, and farewell greeting, and missed out on what they brought in, on the four wheeler. Have to say was great day in the blind. Just have to tell about one shot on ducks. Pappa Goose called the shot, and we were just a little slow getting up, and the ducks were getting higher, so he decided we should not shoot and tried to stop the shot before anyone shot. Well just as he got "To Late" out of his mouth, a couple of shot rang out, and two birds got hit very hard. They were a couple of long shot and I think there were about the hardest hit birds all day.

A great shoot and the Huskers won, what more could a man asked for.

Well this is Saturday night and I need to close this, so I can go feed and water the Sweet One.

So say a prayer for all the brave soles that are protecting out rights, tonight and every night.
See Ya Carl

Was a powder burning day

They were not on time but they have moved in. Was afternoon before we started to see the migrators. From then until closing we were spotting plenty of game. Not only Canada’s, both big and small, but Snow and Blues and just about all spices of ducks. We got into 5 snows and put all of then in the bag and then we had a loaner come in and he ended up in the pond too. Had about 4 to 6 go-a-rounds on ducks. Not sure of the total on them, because we had some hunters, leave early and took birds, but had to be around 20 birds. Was a sporting shot, with the wind and one time the boss made it a little more sporting by calling a down wind shot. Used to be a shot I didn’t like but after years of practice missing them, now I am very confident, and just claim all that fall. I think the group done as well on that shot, as any shot we took today, on ducks. The group today did seam to be a little more conservative on shooting shells, than on most windy days.

It is hard for me not to start saying that tomorrow is going to be a barn burner, but I refuse to make any predictions. So all I am going to say, I wouldn't miss tomorrow for nuttin. Unless, they were flying over the clouds we had this morning, there just has to be more coming after the storm, they had north of us. We did see plenty of the S&B, but nothing like we should have. Since we are confused on the ducks, I have no idea what to expect on them. Received report, from a spread or two that they had limited out, and we seen enough duck that that could be possible.

Well, I have to get busy to give then he-- tomorrow so must get busy.

Say a prayer for the troops tonight, and check back

See Ya Carl

We have a weather change coming

Don’t get excited, we have not been hammering ourselves into the ground. Have received some report that the ducks are moving in our direction and in front of the pending storm. Sure hope they move far enough that we see some. Also have report that we have some that are bedding down, here in Burt County but must be moving in another direction to feed, cause we are not seeing them.

Sounds as if we are getting a weather change, starting tomorrow. They have had the gull to even mention the Snow word, for us, I think Fri. We do not need any of that, because we need to get this corn out so the birds will have a place of feed. We are needing something to get the juices running in the hunters veins. What I am saying, We are needing some hunters to help pass the time out at the pits. A few ducks would help that.

I for one am in favor of having some birds take up residents here in Burt County for a while. For at least the past two seasons we have not seen enough Mallards to talk about. I would like to just one more time, see a huge flock of Mallards. Lets say 2,000 circle our pits, and give us a thrill. Don’t even have to give us a shot, just circle.

All you guys that have been holding back for some birds, before you show up, may just miss it, if you do not get to the pits one of the next few days. We have the weather in our favor, for the last part of this week and the first part of next week.

Now you know I have not passed on or give up the ship. Sorry but there has not been any thing to write about. But please keep checking back in and remember to say a prayer for our troops tonight, and every night

See Ya Carl

Copy Cats

I had one of my daughters that called me the other day and told me “Dad do you realize that you have a competitor, in this waterfowl blogging”. Of course I had no idea, of what she was talking about, so I asked for clarification, of her statement. So she explained there is another group of guys hunting on this Missouri river bottom, that have a blog. I said you mean there are copy cats out there. She said I don’t think they are copy cats, but they are writing storied about their hunts, too. So again I reminded her they were copy cats. She then said “you best read their reports before you put them down”. Then she went on to tell me that they are some hunters from North Omaha, Well really Blair, and she thought they worked at some small car dealer down in Blair. So I said “there professional tire kickers, you can’t trust those dudes” Again, she thought I should just get on their site and read some of their reports, they are really good writers and some of their stories have humor in them, and lots of pictures. So I asked, are the pictures “croped” and throughout the story or just on top. She said wherever they want them. Damn kids know just how to do all that fancy sh--a-stuff. She said they had a duck for a logo, and I reminded her, I had a picture of 79 Canada’s in a pile for a logo, and a character, of a duck, was stupid, and didn’t cut the mustard with me. Then she said they used names like SURESHOT & COMANDO, or something like that. She thought they were much cooler names that KILLER KARL, she is out of the will. Well, you know there is another case of being a copy cat. They are duck call names, and they copied them and Killer Karl is original, and there is only one of them and there is thousands of them calls. Bet their smoke pole don’t have a name like mine does. WAR EAGLE. They probably hunt with a Marlin bolt action goose gun. Probably thought Bill Callahan was a coach too.

So I begun to do a little investigating and I found out that they drive a new Dodge Pickup ‘whoopee’. Well I drive an old Dodge Van and it lets you know I am coming and it has plenty of experience, of getting me to and from the pits. Dodges are good at doing that. So maybe they have just a little class, if they like Dodges. Suppose they have a Chrysler Van too??

So then I went and check their site out, and I do have to say, I did enjoy reading their writings, so if you are a rocking chair hunter and enjoy reading about the real action, in the pits. I suggest you go to, their site and get another point of view of the “going ons” here in Burt County Nebraska. Their address is http://www.muckbottom.blogspot.com They hunt some sandbar up North of Kohler’s, also, I think you will enjoy their writing, even if they are COPY CATS.

Now to the serious side. Had good number of birds early, but no wind to make them work. I think there was 7 or 8 nice flocks of Specks, a flock of 30 Snows and Blues., along with just a few ducks. This was all before the wind come up. When the wind picked up, the birds stopped, with the exception of, right at noon, and then we seen the last flock of Specks. Also did have a couple of Green heads that really out smarted us and got in the pond unmolested.

One of these days we will have a hammering day again. Remember all the young people that are protecting us, in your prayers

Check back, please.
See Ya Carl

A day of listening

We had a couple of guests today, Reed Kennedy, and Monte West joined us for the morning’s hunt. Wasn’t much of a shoot, we took one Canada.

For those of you don’t know just who these two are I will explain. Monty West is the "W" in the K&W decoy company. When I first started hunting out there, Monty was the lead duck caller. Monty also made and sold the Monte West duck and goose calls. We still use Mont's goose calls. Reed Kennedy is the man who assisted Ralph with getting his book (Born to Hunt) published and on the market.

So setting down and keeping your ear, glued to the speaker, listening to the conversations going on over in the boss’s pit, was an easy task. I jacked up my chair where I could see, but was still under the straw, and just listened. I have had the honor to hunt with Ralph, since 1970, and have lived some of the funny stories that they talk about, but Monty goes back almost an additional 30 years of hunting there. I am all ears when they get on some of the old river stories. Of course the river days took place before the corp. messed up the river and there was sand bars where the birds rested and hunters hunted. The story that always comes up, is on slow days they would have football games, on the sand bar. I don’t know if they took a football along or did they use something else for a football. I have asked and never really got an answer that I trusted as being true.

There are names that come up that I remember and names I can not put a face to. I will have to confess, that these stories remain pretty constant, as to the happening and the results of. Regardless of the story, it sure makes a short day out of a slow day like today. I was disappointed when they said they had to get heading back down the road, toward home.

The though of what they claimed were blinds, make me shiver just thinking of how cold you could get, even with the clothing we have today. I know just how cold it has to get to have pack ice in the river, and they were hunting in a willow blind, when the river run full of pack ice. There was no thinsulate or underarmor in those days, or other modern, insulating garments, to help ward off the cold. How did they handle it is a mystery to me. They even used big chunks of ice to make blinds out of. Well wind don’t blow through ice, so I think I could handle that, but willow branches stuck in the sand, don’t stop the wind.

In my eyes, today was not an uneventful day but really a very eventful day. Monty said he was coming back in a few days so we will have chapter two. They didn’t get into some of the upps shoots, they had. Some of then they don’t want out, so it is special when you get to hear one. They were good law bidding citizen, but you know we all speed sometime or other, and they had there slip up in hunting too.

Remember the troops in your prayers tonight and please check back

See Ya
Killer Karl

QUESTIONS, brings back some great memories

Had some feed back from some hunters, that are not sure of, my honesty on Sundays shoot. This brings up another shoot, that took place on Nov.3 1974. This was one of my daughters birthday, and I was supposed to come to town, early, for her birthday party. Well I remember her 10th birthday, way better, than she remembers it. See this was before there was phones in the blind, and even if there would have been one, I am not sure I would have had the guts to use it. Good thing that a women, can only get so mad, cause mine reached that point that day, and when I am asked what she said, I always answer "if you leave out the cuss words, not a damn thing."

There is still a dispute between Ralph and I as why things happened they way they did, but I am sticking to my story. This is what I remember; there were more blinds on the East side of the Lake than there were on the West side. Any way, we open the day on the East side, and we were shooting ducks, but there was some high flying Snows and Blues. Ralph kept saying, "If we were only on the other side we could kill some of those Geese". This is where the dispute between RK and me. I say there was not enough room for all of us to go to the other side, and he has no reason, why we all did not all move at that time. I am guessing at about 10:00 Ralph and his hunters moved to the West side. This crew, was from Minneapolis, they had been hunting for a few days and could only hunt until noon and then was heading back home.

The geese were in small bunches of 5 to 50, and one flock right after another. At almost any time you could see 10 to 15 flocks, and all were very high coming, and this is the way they flew throughout the day.

The crews on the East side continued to drop a few ducks, while the crews on the west worked on geese. At that magic time for us: (12:08), they had talked a small flock of S&B’s, into range, and took 5 blues. The remaining 3 rolled over us on the East side and we, dumped them into the lake. This crew from Minnesota packed up, for there trip back home. Ralph, came around and told us guys if we were smart, we would pack our gear and move over to the other side. My story again: because there was enough room for all of us now. So we all pack our gear and moved. We had only got settled in and guns loaded, when the first, "Lets Go" was given. That was the last time everybody was in the pits when the next shot was called. A few guys would pick up the close ones and get back in, and someone would go for the one that sailed out a few yards, when they started to "call" you would lay down. When the next flock would start to decoy, all the flocks that was in sight, would start decoying too. They were so high that before that flock was in range we would have a dozen or more flock in a tornado or spiral, getting down to us. When the shot was called, a crew would run out and pick up birds and the crew that was on the run from the preceding flock would charge back in the pits for there turn to shoot. This is the way the day went, all the way, to sunset. Total geese was 74, and all shot after 12:00 noon.

Of course there would be a sailor or two every once in a while and I remember being with Ron Jenkins, another "weekend hunter" from Blair, making a trip, picking up flyer's, that made it south of the east-west road south of us. We had cars setting on that road just watching, and they even help gather up and locate downed birds. Some hunters from Kopecky Hunting, pack up their gear and moved south for a closer look. We found out later that the only geese that got shot at that day in Burt county, was at Kohler’s lake. The next day, I had hunter, who hunted south of us, asked me, what we were shooting at because they had not seen a bird that was low enough to decoy. We had, and logged some great memories, that is going to last, me and others, for a lifetime. If you doubt this story, just ask Ralph and I can give you other names about a November 3rd hunt

No hunters today so had time for an old story. Say a prayer for all our HERO who are protecting our rights.

See ya Carl

The day after, the blast

More on Yesterday’s hunt
The picture above is of My Grandson, myself and Ralph. This is part of the kill from yesterday, because some hunters, had fled the area, with game, before we got around to pictures. You can get a feeling as to how the wind was blowing, by Kyle’s hair and Ralph and my stance.
We did not know just how lucky we were, with yesterday hunt. Found out today that not many birds were harvested in the area on Sunday. Had some hunter say they never seen any ducks, other complained they were to busy trying to keep decoys and gear in place, and were not looking. I must say we had our problems, with decoys too. In fact RK spotted one more decoy today, on the way out from the blinds. Will have to get it picked up and back in the spread, tomorrow.

Now to today’s action
Well the wind was down, but the bird movement also slowed some too. Hardly any geese, and the ducks were so hard to see in a cloudless sky. Got into ducks two times today. Both bunches were down wind shots, I think. The second bunch I had food in my hand and if it comes down to me dropping food to shoot, or staying down and staying fat, I choose the later. So I don’t know just which way the last flock was flying. Every one agreed that the kill would not have changed anyway, so I guess that was okay. I do know there is a much better chance of harvesting more that one bird out of a flock on a wind like today’s, than it was in yesterday’s, hurricane .
Best get busy so will close.

Please remember the troops that serve us, in your prayers tonight
See ya Carl

The smell of burning powder strill lingers at the south lake

Well the wind blew and the steel flew. We had a crew of just 13 today and they all left with big smiles on there face. A quick figure and I come up with, close to 2.5 cases of shell were emptied into the wild blue yonder today.

It takes a lot of ammo, when you are shooting at waterfowl in a wind of 35 MPH plus. However we dumped plenty of Ducks and Canada’s into the pond. I think we were into Canada’s 5 maybe 6 times today, and the ducks were something else. We had to decoy 75 to 100 flocks of ducks, and we didn’t get into half of them, but we got into our share. We seen maybe as many Mallards today, as we have in any one month, of any of the past several seasons. It was so refreshing, to see flocks of 20, 30, 50, even some flock bigger that that, of all Mallards working the decoy spread. It may sound impossible, but it look like that 60% were green heads too. The wind made it impossible to harvest but a few birds out of each flock. The duck gets out in a hurry when ever you are shooting at them, in a wind like we had today, maybe the first 2 to 3 guys up may have a good shot and then it was trying to catch up with the bird, and burn powder. Love burning that powder.

I know that almost every hunter left with almost a limit of both ducks and geese. We had a couple of young hunter in the pits today, so you know they will have some war stories to tell in school tomorrow, and I am sure, some of the hunters will turn in fishermen , and just may expand something, too. Well it will be memorable trip for several, of them I am sure. What will remain into my memory bank, is the fact that we seen Mallards, and more Mallards. I was convinced that we were never going to see them again. Back 20 years ago when we had big crowds, this would have been one of the 100 plus days, on ducks. I do have to confess that in those days there would never be a day that you would harvest 30 Canada’s, like we did today. Oh, how times change and so do the birds, we see way more Canada’s now and for the past several years, way fewer ducks. Sure hope this is not the only day we see this number of the Green head. That was so exciting to see them again. The only thing I have to complain about was the time it took to dress the two limits I brought home tonight. Thanks Kev for the help. I will never tell him this, but if He had not give me a hand I would be still dressing birds yet. Must get this posted and gets the birds package.

So check back and keep the Troops in your bedtime prayers,

See Ya Carl

We have not drown

Even though there is not much to report in the shooting department, I need to update this Report, just so you don’t think I have died or given up.

We have just gone through, a monsoon season, here in Nebraska. Not for sure just how much rain we have received in the past couple days, because most people, had turned their rain gauges over, in anticipation, of winter. But it is wet here. The lake got so full that it almost got into the pits. The lake was running over the dike on the north end, when the Boss went out to check on things. He then pulled the plug and let it drain for most of yesterday afternoon and all night last night. That is over 12 hours with a 18 inch stream, flowing, to get it down to an except-able level again, is a lot of water.

All the ducks we seen today were wearing life jackets. On the way back to town, I seen two farmers, here on the bottom, that were busy, constructing Arc’s, and the women were gathering, up the livestock. Well maybe that is just a little over the top, but we are wet. Reports of 3 to 4 inches of rain on the bottom. I have been asking for another fall of this type, before I hang up the ol’ smoke pole, for good. Well it has arrived. There are many a fields, that may require a freeze up before harvest. There will be the "12 inch deep tracks with 6 inches of water standing in them", that I have wished for, for several years. Now if the ducks would only comply, it would be a great thing. But then some poor sole would start to believe, I knew something, and that has never happened before.

Well this enough B S, for today. So please check back and remember the troops in your prayers tonight.

See Ya
Carl

There was some powder burn't today

Did not have a posting for over the weekend, but the weekend was very slow, and nothing happened, that needed reporting.

However, today was just a little different. Had plenty of birds, and we did decoy some, but not near what we should have. As far as to what was on the move, There was a good push of Cacklers, Whitefronts, Mallards. Bluebills. Along with seeing, ample number of Canada’s. We were not to flush with guns, but we should have limited out on both Ducks and Canada’s. We did take a couple of limits of ducks and 3 big Canada’s. Today, was one of them days if it wasn’t for bad luck you had no luck at all, especially on the geese. We should have been into at least 4 maybe 6 more flocks, more than we were. But there has been many days, in the past, I have hunted that I would gladly trade for an exciting days like we had today.

Again this morning the walk was another moonlight walk. We did have a bad odor for awhile, then we got a shot and pushed a big flock, of then stinking pelicans, out of the lake. They were setting up wind of us, and there are many animals in this world, that have a better odor, than they do.

Well enough complaining for one day so remember, all the young men and women that serve this great country, in you bed time prayers.

See Ya Carl

Two days reports

Well I have to apologize to you about last evening report. We shut down real early and I done something’s, I needed to get done and then forgot to put out a report. Had a Grandkid in a football game last night and was setting in the stands, when it come to me that I had forgot all about, getting this report out. So you get two days in one report.

We had got into a couple of Canada’s, and took one and had harvested a duck too, but the outlook was pretty bleak. The lake was looking like a mirror and Ralph was wanting to make a big change to the spread, and thought it was a good day, to make this move. Of course he did not want any help, but wanted us off the lake while he was doing the work. There was only one member so we sent him home, and other things took over our lives. I do like the new look, and it may just prove very fruitful.

Now, to Fridays report. This one is more exciting.

We woke up to rain, when I went down town at 5:15 it was still raining, but before we got our breakfast ate and out to the lake, the rain had stopped and the clouds had moved out, making for, a great moon lite walk, into the pits. We were hearing Geese moving around and they were so low that the big bright moon, was casting a shadow, as they flew over the lake. We had ducks, in the area too and before it was legal to take them. Once it was time to shoot all the geese had left the area and the ducks were getting fewer too. R K and his bride had an appointment with the eye Dr. so his plans was, to pull out before most of us had our second cup of coffee, poured. This makes it amateur day, for us. We took full advantage of it too. I must tell you before Ralph, left the pits, we had thumped a couple of duck, with just that many shots. He was shocked by this display of deadly shooting, however he just may deny, that this ever happened but we have him out numbered, claiming that it is true. After he was gone we took another duck.

Lyle had some commitments as well so he left about an hour after RK had, so that left just one member and me still aboard the ship. I need to inject that we had a very light wind out of the south east, at about 5 MPH, but the radio was forecasting, we were to get a wind from the North later in the afternoon. Well about 11:00 it started to switch around, by 12:30 we were experiencing a nice wind of around 10MPH from the north northwest. Along with this wind we also had some birds moving, that provided the two of us, with an entertaining afternoon. We did not get a shot but did spot several bunches of ducks as well as a nice flock of geese. We abandon ship about 3:00.

This is personal, but I have been getting several, inquiries as to my new knee. Things are going just great with it. No pain, and I have been walking in mud, and am so pleased with it so far. Thanks for your concern.

Will let you go. But as always please say a prayer for all the troops tonight, in your bed tie prayer.

Please check back
See ya Carl.

Another shooting day

As we walked into the pits this morning, you could hear the Specks. They were either flying around the lake or there was almost a steady stream of them moving through. Once it got to be daylight it was apparent that there was a major migration of Specks going on. There also was phone calls, and the caller’s were saying the same thing was going on where they were. They did slow down some in the afternoon, but they were still flying when I was forced from the pits around 2:30.

Along with the Specks, we were seeing hundreds of Ducks. Both small and large flocks, as well as large and small ducks. We were into Canada’s two times before 8:15. The Canada’s I could not tell you if they were Locals or Migrator’s. I am guessing they were Migrator’s, because both flocks were smaller flocks than fly around here, prior to the season and out exercising. We were embarrassing low on hunter early but had several walk-ins that helped out before the day ended. I think there was 6 go-a-rounds on ducks and 3 on Canada’s, so all in all it was a very good day.

Sorry this so short but, this flu is hampering my writhing ability, along with my thinking.

So say a prayer for the troops and check back.

See Ya Carl

A powder burning day

Mother nature was so good to us today. She started out with a great painting in the eastern skies. And then she provided us with a wonderful hunting day too.

The Heart Break Goose was on the move. We must have seen 12 to 15 flocks of Specks, through out the day. Had about a half dozen flocks that did a decoy job, but would never go all the way. They have so many ways to break your heart. The first bunch was a small flock of 8 and they almost made the big mistake, but some how got smart and left us setting and wondering, just what we did wrong. There was several flocks today, that numbered around the 20-30 bird size flock. They would swings us several times and then head on South. Never the less, they made the day, worth being there. In between flocks of the Specks we had Ducks. All kinds, including some Mallards. They were a little kinder to us, and gave us a few shots at them. I think we had 4 go-a-rounds on ducks and one go-a-round on a pair of Canada’s. Most of the guys had to lighten there shell load by at least a half a box, so that always means a good day when you shoot that many shells.

So far I think the boss is happy with the setup of the lake, but the jury don’t rule until we have a few North and Northwest winds.

The only predictions I am making this year is, that 40% of the birds that we harvest with a Northerly wind, will splash down, on the shore line. Shore line is: the distance from blinds to water edge, and the same distant out into the lake that far. So lets say it is 20 feet from blind to water and then 20 feet out into the lake too. The lake looks so good, and they sure have been right over us so far, but we have not had a north wind of any type. That is the forecast for tomorrow, as you would expect, I wouldn't miss tomorrow for nuttin. 10 to 15 MPH with gust to 25MPH.

I'll let you go. Remember as always Say a prayer for all out hero's in you prayers tonight.

See Ya Carl

OPENING DAY

We arrived at the pits all full of anticipation, of a great shooting day. The temp was just a little above what you would call a great day for a duck hunt. Of course ducks hunters are always optimistic, and the curves mother nature are always taken in stride. We snuggled into the pits, loaded the smokepoles, poured the coffee readying ourselves for the first go around. Mother nature had us a little nervures, as she was droping some rain drops on our head and there was, a little lighting flashing in the thunderhead. that was passing just over head. Soon ol’Sol started poking his head above the horizon in the east and was brightening up the day. We were spotting a few teal flying by, just out of range. But things like this only make you think the day is turning into your favor. The conversations builds, as the day get brighter and you can see just who you are conversing with. You find out just what has happened in each others life since you last shared the pit. You are up dated on , all the lies about fish, they almost got into the boat, what this ones grandkid did, troubles someone had on a car trip, all the time scanning the skies for that thin line of birds coming your way. Stories were interrupted by, "are those ducks, geese or loons" , But that is all the fun of waterfowl hunting. If it was just, the shooting, you went hunting for, there would not be many blinds being occupied. So with all that said, I can only say we had a pretty good day. We seen the front edge of the whitefront push, as we watched a couple flocks of them pass into and out of our view, 3 to 4 flocks of Loons or Cormorants glide down the river and a few small flocks of small ducks. Also had one little flock of Pintales, pass over, as well. Did have a couple of Gadwals dive into range, downing one and had several hunters claim it. I can not figure why, them other guys were shooting in my shooting lane, and not shooting, the bird that was closer to them, but they claimed my bird. But that is what, waterfowl hunting is all about. See that is what is wrong with fishing, how do you claim a fish when it is on some other persons line. Believe me when I say, that is one reason I don’t do much fishing.
I am going to tell the truth when I say I would not miss tomorrow for nuttin. There is no sport where you can have so much fun, on a bad day and even more on a good powder burning day as well. Here is hoping we have some great powder burning days this season, as well as, some darn good visiting days too.
The boss has the lake looking so good and you just have to be optimistic about this season.
Lets hope this report is a little more fruitful tomorrow, so please check back. Till then, remember all the troops, in your bed time prayers tonight and everynight.
Check back and see ya
Killer Karl

Another Preseaon Report

Well in a few days we will be settling into the pits for another fall of hunting. All reports are favorable for a good season of hunting. As you can see by the picture the lake is pumped as well as the decoys are set and already move at least one time, hoping to get us the very best shot, possible. Remember last season, the distance from the pits to the shore line was about a shotgun shot, well that has increased. Last year, you may have thought, you could harvest birds flying the shore line. You may have, on the first shot, because it was just over 40 yards. This year that distant has increased to just over a 100 yards. I think the boss said it was now 102 yards. Now I am not predicting, but this may just give the ducks enough room, to roll back off the decoys, for another try, and not fly over any land. So maybe, with water, under them they will stay low, and be in range on the next pass. Lets hope so. Also, lets hope that there is some snow in the north land, by that, I am saying Sioux City and north. If that happens, just maybe there will be some big ol’ Mallards move, into our area and feed in corn fields in Burt County and not corn fields in the Dakota’s. It is our turn to have the birds to feed here again, and we have a great powder burning season, on ducks.

Please, when you get your first good look of the lake, be sure to tell Ralph, your feeling on how it looks, because he has put in endless hours, out there this summer. I was taking to easy and he worked his behind off. The place looks great.

Well here is hoping for a memorable opening day. I will be up dating most days, but if we are having bad days I may not put out a report. It is so hard to write some thing positive when it is actually negative. Again I just have to say, the place looks so good and there is so many good reports on the birds, there should be very few bad days.
As always please say a prayer for the troops that are in harms way, and are protecting our home land.

I guess I should explain a little about the picture. I am standing in the area where we park the white truck and looking up the road to the blinds. We are setting in the middle of a big lake.

See Ya.
Carl

Preseason update

Received the weekly report as how many people were checking the "Kohler Report". So think I better update, it. I was trying to wait so I could say the lake was pumped. Well the boss has not started that, as of yet. It has been pretty wet, in this area and there is some growth in the lake he would like to take care of before he floods it. Other wise he is about ready to hunt.
I have some thing I need to get done, and am planning on doing that this weekend. I was out the other day, and as usual, Ralph has it looking , absolutely great.

As for time to meet. The formula is leave town, is 1½ hours before sunrise. The reason, for this time. By the time we leave the café and drive to the shed, and get ready to board the truck, it take about, ½ hour. It also takes about ½ hour to get you to the pit into yor seat, get the truck back to the trees, get back and be ready to hunt. It is legal, for us to shoot, is ½ hour before sunrise. Opening day the legal shooting time is about 7:30, so should leave town about 6:00. Now just in case you are interested. Do this: click on this: www.sunrisesunset.com. Click on the place where it says something about making a custom Calender and click on that. I think all the moves are in red or pink. Then, click on this Link. Then click on Nebraska. Then you pick out the city and I put in Blair, because Blair is south of the lake, and Tekamah is west. Every seven miles west, is a minute so Blair is nearer the right time, than Tekamah time is, and then select the month or months to print. You can choose the moon phases, moonrise-moonset, military time or 12 hour time.

Boy that got extended somewhat, but we should be in the café around 5:30 if you are planning on something to eat. Other wise be there at 6:00. We don’t change our clocks back until the 2nd of November this year, so we can put off, all of that until a latter date.
This has got long enough, so as always Please say a little prayer for all the Troops that are keeping us free, tonight and every night

See ya and God bless
Carl

The summer is growing short

I have not posted anything for a long time. It has been a busy summer for me. I will go into that later.

For the first time in several years, Ralph did not move the pits. However he moved the lake some. Across from, just in front of the pits, he move the east shore line, back about 40 to 50 yards. It, no longer looks like you could kill a bird sitting on the shore line. In fact it looks like that the ducks can swing, off the decoys and not fly over any land, as they turn to the East, and come back to the decoys. I like the look, but I am not making any predictions. It sure has opened up the lake for the big boys, and give them plenty of room to come up through the lake. The bar, that was off to your right and a little behind, when you were setting in the blinds, is no longer there. He has moved all that dirt and I can not tell you just where it is now, but it is gone. I think he has had, some big equipment in there, and done some packing too.

Pappa Goose, and Dorthy, have weathered the summer pretty good, too. I think they have went out to the lake almost everyday, just as they have, in years past. They also have all the decoys cleaned and painted.

From what we are hearing, our season will be getting under way, a little later. I think they have a meeting in August, but sound like they have made up their minds and everything opens October 11th. If that holds up, we will miss out on, most of the early ducks, and Canada's. I guess we can hope the Big Boys, decide to settle in and stick around for a while. On the postive side, all the mosquito's, should be dead by then.

As for me. I had my right knee replaced on June 2nd. The Dr. assured me that I would be able to go to the pits, come October. I was a little unsure he knew, what he was talking about. After all, I am over weight and on the upper end of, lifes ruler. Well believe me when I say he was right, I mean it. I have made a fantastic recovery. I quit using my cruches, started going up and down steps, like most people do, and started to drive the car all in the third week after surgery. The first two and half weeks was pure hell but since them it has all been worth it. I keep telling people, if I had felt this good when I retired, I would have not retired. So I am saying that I will not only be there on opening day, but am sure, I will be bringing the smoke pole too. I have no pain, when walking, any more. I don't know what will happen, when there is, gumbo hanging on my shoes. I guess we will find out.

As always, say a bed time prayer, for all the young people that are protecting our country

Check back in a few weeks, we will be back in action. I will make another posting when the dates are definent.

See Ya Carl




.

Didn't get a date posted

So sorry, that I goofed, but I got an E-Mail this morning stating that I have not posted a date for the Kohler Banquet.

So it is MAY 9 2008 at ANTHONY'S STEAK HOUSE at 72nd and F.

So sorry about that, but it would not me if I didn't screw up something.

Let you go.

Se ya there.

Carl

The Kohler Banquet

Got a notice from, Jerry Johnson, on the annual Kohler Spring Banquet.

For those of you, that have never attended, this a fun and, very entertaining evening. We have this evening every year, under the disguise, as a way to say “thank you” to our wives or girl friend, for letting us to go hunting all fall and spring, while they set at home and was bored to death watching the TV. Don’t tell them, it is really, another chance for us to get together and brag on our shooting, claim that this pile of game was really shot by you, and a host of other unfinished topics, we have come up with, since departing from the blinds. Please also remember, there is no one that we want to exclude. If you want to show up PLEASE do.

As I have said in years past, “there is a very stick dress code” Sports Coats, Suits, Neck Ties, Jeans, Larry The Cable Guy shirts are all optional. However, Camo Caps, Hip Wader, and all your bird calls, hunting dogs, are all forbidden. Cubs Caps are OKEY if worn with the bill covering you nose, not the back of your neck. No Cardinal caps, Please.

I am not sure as just what the program is going to be for this eevening, but am sure we will have another try at playing the recording of Ralph “acceptance speech” he gave at the Legend of the Outdoors Hall of Fame Banquet. This was one great speech and is worthy of the time it takes to watch.

Jerry, sent out a very nice invitation, and I wish I was talented enough to copy and paste it to this posting. However, I have got it scanned into my computer, if any or you wish a copy, please E-Mail me, and I will forward it to you. Jerry incorporated a picture of “the Boss” on this invite. Great Job Jerry, it looks very nice.

Jerry also has set up a nice meal for us, so I will give all the important info to you

LOCATION: Anthony’s Steak House,
72nd and F Street
Omaha, Nebraska

Time: 6:00 PM Conversation and Refreshments
6:45 PM Dinner

MENU: Broiled Salmon Filet
Prime Rib (10 oz )
Top Sirloin (12oz )
Price range from $23.00 to $26.50
These prices covers complete dinner, condiments, Coffee or soft drinks,
Taxes and gratuity

This is a Friday evening and in years past, Anthony’s has had a band over on the dance floor, and some in the past have taken advantage of this, and waltz the evening away.

God Bless, all of you as well as all the troops.

See Ya Carl

The last of the Birds are gone

I know I haven’t posted an update for a few days, but there is a good reason. Monday and Tue were zero days and we shut down for Wednesday Thursday and Friday. On Saturday there was a crew of eight in, from eastern Ohio that hunted with us through Monday. What a weekend. All the juvies showed up and responded to the calling system as good as we have ever seen. It didn’t seam to make any different whether the were flying a mile high or coming out of the fields, they responded, to the call. The decoying was unbelievable and got right down into, our working range. Shell were of a premium especially on Saturday, I had anticipated the season was over and had hauled my stock home, and had to make a run to town to retrieve them, just over a case. Good thing that Wal-Mart was open all night, for shells for Sunday’s shoot. The sights we seen out over our decoys is something that I will remember for the rest of my lift. The down side to this, was the problem of dressing of all these birds, after we shut down for the day. Made it impossible for me to also put out a report. We made our adjusted projected goal, of 400 and almost made it to the 500 number. Eastern Ohio will be back in Nebraska next year.

Now just what would you expect my report would read like, on 4-1 if not like above, yep April Fools.

The facts. We haven’t hunted since Tue the 25th. I had some home job to take care of and hadn’t even spoken to Pappa Goose until this morning. He said I was like a blister, I showed up after the work was done. I didn’t find out if he had any help or not, but he has all the decoys pulled, all the speakers picked up. He told me on Tue that that mud had to set a few days, before walking in it, to pick up decoys. I took him at his word, and worked on my honey do’s

As for all my projected numbers, I missed every one so far, this season, that I will never make another prediction, for at least 3 weeks.

So if the Good Lord is willing, I will be putting out reports again next season and of any thing that may need telling, until then. There is a Kohler dinner in the works, so if you are one, that does not get a invitation, please keep checking back, because if you want to come you are more than welcome, and I will make a posting, as to when and where that is, when I get the info.

So always remember the Men and Women that are protecting our country in your evening prays, until we hook up again.

So will see ya
Carl

For the third day in a row, we set the third highest kill for the season. Had several bunches try to get in and with the loaners that we sent Kev, “the undertaker” out on, and he brought back. We totaled 20, so there was some action, and a few shell shot. They are so spookie this year, and we are just not getting then down over the water. The ones that come in and lit, the singles, did set down in the water and not on the shore line.

Ralph has the spread looking so good, as usual, but there is something they are not liking.

Well since this is Saturday I best get this posted, and do my Saturday nigh out thing with my wife. We are not hunting tomorrow, because it is Easter Sunday, so there will be no report .

Remember to keep the troops in your bedtime prayers

See Ya Carl

I don't know what I done wrong, but this did not post last evening. Got a phone call and told me he knew we had got birds, and there was not report up, so I checked and there wasn't. I don't know what I did wrong. I always do it in word and then move it over so I had last evening thoughts.

I am going to blame it all on my wife, because she was hurring me to go get fed and watered, I must have missed a step some place along the way. So here is is late, sorry. CM

Again today, a third high total, for the spring shoot, has been set. Also we passed over the first threshold or plateau. Was a better day than most have been for the year, but not what you would call a great day on average for a spring day shoot.

About ten minutes before legal time, was the best opportunity, but we had to pass on it. We had a big flock down in there, better than any other, large flock all season, but you just have to pass on them, when it is that many minutes early. Was a bitter pill to swallow.

The most positive thing about today was: for what we seen or had decoy, we probably average a better bag limit, than most days. We, or the guys, did make there shots count. Not many birds flew out of the spread, today. We were low on shooters and had 11 in the bag when it was all over. The count is now, up over a 100, so we are whizzing right up there.

Just was not many birds, moving today. If the Feds, are tell us the truth on the birds at Squaw Creek, they set tight today. Most of the time when there is a wind like we had today, they love to fly into it and we would have seen them. I know there was a heavy cloud cover, and that hurts, but you would have bet, we would have seen more than we did.

Best get this posted so say a prayer for our hero and please check back

See Ya Carl

One plateau to fall

Well we had a little action today. I know it seems trivial, but we had the third best day, today on snows. This is not forever, but for this year. This is no small accompaniment. See if you have birds you don’t have any wind, if you have the wind there is no birds.

We are getting dangerously close to the 100 birds mark. Down to less than a half dozen flocks to get that hurtle, behind us. Has been a real struggle to reach that goal, but with today’s nine, we are into the 90’s now. Again today, we got report from Squaw Creek, and they have stuck with their story of having over a million birds. Their quote is a “million plus”. This is coming from a federal agency, so I have to trust their word. We have not been seeing as many birds, as we have in the past, but with those numbers we just can give up hope.

Have a friend that wants to bet a steak supper that we will reach the 250 number. Well I am considering his bet. That is $20.00 for a steak and that would be a small price to pay for just a little shooting. Also I have a bad history of winning bets, so how could I loose.

I neglected to tell you, of another kill we had yesterday. Late yesterday morning we discovered that my blind was infested with a saber tooth field rodent. This was one of the long fanged species. So I mover out all of my hunters out (really they bailed out with out me suggesting them to do so) And I stayed behind, for the battle. He showed his teeth several times, but he was no match for this old hunter. Pappa goose refuses to count it as a kill, but I am still lobbying and just may persuade him yet.

Nothing else to report so will close this.

Remember all our services men and women that are serving our great country

See Ya Carl

We started out the day with some excitement and had visions of a great day. Had 4 that got circling our decoys, about 15 min before shooting time and then joined up with another pair, and continued for another 10 minutes before making a fatal mistake and got to close. When the smoke cleared there was still, two a flying. The troops are still suffering from, early season jitters, and don’t shoot the best. But this is still how the year is going. We started the day with no wind, a lot of ice, ground fog, and then get into birds; you just get the feeling that this could be the day. The weather forecast, was for clear skies, south winds, at 15 MPH, and over a million birds just 90 miles south of us. This appears to be a recipe for good to great day. Seen some flocks but, nothing like you would think on this type of day.

Got into some stranglers, through out the morning, bring our grand total up to a whopping 7. Then the afternoon the clouds moved back in and then the skies were barren, of birds again.

May have to lower my projections to a mere 100 birds. The only bright spot, for the season is the fact so many birds are still south of us.

Well this is all the complaining I should do, for one day so will get this posted

Please remember to say a prayer for the troops that are serving us.

See Ya Carl

We got some clear skies, also a good north wind and still a small number. in the bag. They just have our number this year. It seems like we have, tried just about everything and they still out smart us. Didn’t see the most birds by a long shot, but had plenty that decoy to make it a good day out of it, if they would just finish. They are always just a few yards high or wide. A couple of times we landed some and the rest of the flock just flew off and left their friends setting on the ground. Most generally, when you get one to set down, the rest join it, or them. But that is not how it is this year. Sure hope they asked me to help bomb them. I owe some of them a favor, and I am up to making things right.

Just for the record we killed 4 today. 400, is beginning to look like an impossible number, too.

Say a prayer for the troops tonight and check back for some good news

See Ya Carl

Things were just a little slow today as we expected it to be, with the moisture in the air. We got rain and some snow flurries, but none of it stayed. Just enough to make it real muddy around the pits.

Seen just a very few birds in the morning and then it clouded up and give us the moisture. After that moved out then we got a very few minutes of clearing skies and that is when we got into three little flocks of birds. Then the clouds moved back in and the moisture was back in the air.

For those few minutes of good hunting, we took 6 geese, but we have a couple more down that we should count, but didn’t.

With nothing else to report will get this posted. Please remember the troops in your night time prayers

See Ya Carl

Unforgetable sights today

What a fun day. Was all froze up early and no wind to help things out. Finely the wind come up and the cleaning crew done a quick job of clearing us a nice water hole. All the time we had flock after flock of geese moving mostly from the north. It was a huge movement to the south. We understand there is new snow falling north and some fell, yesterday to the south, so they must be trapped in our area. After some decoy adjustment we started decoying some birds. When you got one flock started there were almost always, other flocks that joined in. Was very exciting, with flocks, numbering into the hundreds and some times into the thousands all circling our spread. Not always, did we get them, into harvesting range, but what a sight. Maybe I am getting to old, but to me, the decoying was enough to make me happy and the shooting was just gravy. Would like to get the bag numbers up, but the bag number is not everything. It would not be possible for me to begin to put a number on the birds we seen today. You had the feeling we seen every Snow Goose that has moves through this bottom this spring. Also makes you think that this season is never going to get the numbers down to where the Feds wants them.

Our bag total today was just 24, but I don’t think that anyone that stuck out the day was disappointed in the day. Had some hunter that had to head back home before things got going, and they missed out on a good day, and we feel for them. They drove a long way and should have got to enjoy the afternoon sights.

If you are wondering what happened to last evening report, well I didn’t get one posted. There were just to many problems. First off, I had some computer problems and could not get it to work, and I worked on it for a couple hours and called it all kinds of names that can’t be printed. Then all of a sudden it started working again. Then it was Saturday night and my sweetie demands we eat out so that takes some time. And this old man requires some bed time, because 4:00 comes pretty early. So when I got the Computer working again, I went to bed.

So the total for yesterday was only 3 birds, but they give us a great aerial show all day long. I should make comment that we had a few juvies and some Ross’s in the bag tonight. I am very sure that this is the first of both.

Have some other things to finish before bed time so must post this. Also I must let some of you no that I know I had, misspelled POLES on the last report, but once it is posted I am not smart enough to change it. When I check what I posted I seen it, but it was to late.

Say a prayer for all our Service men and women tonight and please check back

See Ya Carl