Changing winds but still a little action

We had no wind, changing wind, and a great wind today. Early in the morning if we would have had just a little wind we would had a great day. There were both ducks and geese giving us a look. I should also say the geese were Snow and Blues, and there was about 4 to 6 bunches and all were either to early or during the time when we had no wind.

At about 10 minutes early we had a nice flock of about 30 to 40 that come in very quite. Two almost landed in the decoys, then pulled out and come right over the pits so low, we thought we could have snatched them, out of the sky. Then when it got legal we lost all our wind and getting them birds in for a shot with a slick lake is not possible. By about 8:00 the wind come up and we had a great wind the rest of the time we were out.

Later on in the day we had a flock that got playing around with us and a 3 pack, got just a little low. A couple found themselves D I P. Around 11:00 or so had a small bunch of small ducks, doing a speedy buzz job, daring us to open up. We did and a couple of those paid the price.

Sure would like to talk a little, about last night game, but do not want to offend anyone from Oklahoma. But just have to say, when it comes to defense, I think we had the best squad. The boys done good, and the state is proud of them. A great game, their on the way back.

Had another great sunrise but I will spare you, and not post another picture. Been a great week for sunrises. Probably was none in Oklahoma.

Say a little prayer for the troops, and there families, especially for those serving in the hot spots, as well as those, involved with the mess at Foot Hood.

See Ya Carl

Was a little action today

Guessing that I must update you. However there is a little to write about. Did have just a little of action today.

Sorry about the picture I promised, but the great thing about the picture is, there was a great sunrise three days in a row. So now if I post one which one??? May go check them out and post one anyway. Yes I will post Mondays

As for the action: The past few days every morning we spot a few flocks and are sure that thing is going to kick in and we have a day. Well about as fast it begins to look good it shuts down just as fast. Had allot of action this morning for about 2 to 3 hours and then it turned off again. Everything was high, but at least there was something to look at. Also was seeing plenty of Eagles today too. I always thought they followed the duck and geese and feasted on the injured ones that got away. What we are seeing they are in front of the Waterfowl. Rumors are, that the Dakota’s ,have so much water and no crops out, so what is to move them out and send them on our way. I have a feeling it will take a big snow storm. Can they get snow and us not??? Sure hope so.

Since I last posted something I think we have got 4 ducks and one goose. Two of the ducks and the goose is what we took today. We were so excited that we almost called the World Herald, sports dept and reported this hot action. Beginning to think that I made a bad investment when I bought shells before the season opened. Not quite ready to offer them for sale but it is getting close.

Well remember the troops, and please include the families involved with the tragedy at Fort Hood, in your prayers tonight. They are in need of our support.

Please check back

We’ll see ya Carl

New Month New Hope

New month, November, and 22 days into the season and we have our first picture. Our maker sent out his sky artist, and they painted a good picture in the shy worth getting the camera out of the blind bag and to go into action. I will do my best to include. Now remember I am old and am working with an different type of operating system, so cross your fingers.

Was probably the most promising looking day of the season. We had just a few duck buzzing around, and it was clear we were going to have a sunrise, of quality, as Old Sol was making his way to the horizon. We were interning a new month, with a great wind blowing and making the lake look so good. There was even a fresh set on the decoys. The picturesque sunrise was there, for over a half hour, before the sun broke up over the clouds and really brought on the day. We were seeing geese moving down the valley, and a few were passing over our lake. Before 8:30 we had one of the largest flock of Canada’s come floating down over the river, we have ever seen for this early in the season. Late in the season it is not uncommon to see huge flock of around 150 plus birds but not this early. Just prior to this big flock we had two come into the lake and belly up in front of the blinds and they were rendered DIP in short order. Where I am going with all of this we soon were jolted back to reality, that this is still the 2009 season. We had 2 or 3 close encounters with identified fly objects (geese) with no contact . It ended up being a pretty long dry spell before we pulled up stakes and come to the house.

As always please say a little prayer for all the hero that are protecting our nation

See ya Carl

We had sunshine for the whole day.

Today was not as fruitful, as we had anticipated, but at least the guns come out of the rack. After all the birds we seen on the move yesterday we though the bottom would be full of birds today. Must be to muddy for them or maybe it is the fields, they are still full of standing crops. Now don’t think, we didn’t see birds today because we did. Most were on the mover and high. Did get into Canada’s, got into one flock of 6, ending up with 4 in the bag.

Were not so lucky on the ducks. We passed on a couple flocks, and had a couple more surprise flock that snuck in with out detection. I think the most disappointing thing today was the fact that there were no ducks in the dark. After all we seen yesterday I was sure that the morning sky would be full of ducks. I think that is the most fun of water fowling any more, is seeing the ducks dive in, before it is light enough to shoot. There is nothing and then the area if filled with ducks and before you could think of shooting they are out of site again. Some times you think you could catch your limit if you had a big dip net. How do they keep from running in to another duck or, some solid object??

Tomorrow is the 1st of November and we have not had a good picture quality sunrise, yet. That is another fall thrill, is to see Old Sol, light up the clouds in the Eastern sky. I do love the pictures, that our maker provides on those morning. It just don't get to cold to stand and watch as clouds gather and then lose those colors.

Must report, that we seen our first flocks of Cacklers today. Had reports that hunters on the Platte River, were getting into some of them.

Well I can’t think of anything else to tell you so will post this

So send out a prayer to the troops, tonight

Plaese check back and we’ll see ya

Carl

We seen some Waterfowl today

Things are starting to look up. Even though, the bag did not reflect it, there was some waterfowl activity on the Tekamah bottoms today. We seen dozens of flocks of ducks, several flock of Snow and Blues, along with a couple three flocks of Specks and a flock of the Big Ones. Did end up with a few ducks, but nothing to brag about.

Why I wouldn’t miss tomorrow for nuttin. I am very serious, about that statement too. With snow in the Dakota’s, Sunshine forecast, a favorable wind, just why would you set at home???

The flocks of duck we seen , most were a mixed bags, but there were allot of Mallards, Pintails, Gadwall, Wigeons, a few divers, Bluebills, but was no Green wing. But the ducks were on the move.

It was a treat to hunt today, since we got to see something, after so many days of not seeing any thing at all. Made the walk through the mud worth the trip. Gives you some hope for tomorrow. I am sure Ralph would go along with me saying we seen more Ducks and Geese today, than we have all the rest of the season. That may be stretching it just a little, but it was a fruitful day, for the eyes.

Most of the day we had a slight mist, but we did not get wet or had to put the covers on. There has been many a day when , hunting was more uncomfortable. The forecast, has promised a few days of sunshine, so lets pray they keep their word. Has been a gloomy, month of October.

Say a little prayer for out troops tonight and please check back, and let see if I don’t have more to write about in the coming days

See Ya Carl

We had sun shine

Well we didn’t drown, but it was close. We did a little hunting right through the monsoon, and it was a wet one. The rain raised the lake level several inches, so right now we have more water than the boss likes. Not sure if w are pulling the plug or going to live with it.Had some birds today, that done some funny things so that makes me think we may be dropping the lake level some.

Once the rain quit, and clouds parted just a little, we started seeing birds. We were hearing the spreads north and west of us blazing away about an hour before we were, seeing bird in our area. We did get into the ducks a couple of times and had other, near misses with both ducks and geese. Seen our first flock of migrating Snow and Blues today. But what we seen the most of, was Hawks. Are they ever on the move. That is not just exactly, right, because we seen many flocks of cormorants, but it was not unusual, to spot 8 to 12 Hawks, at a time, soaring there way south. Now don’t think they were always the same birds, because you could follow one group south and then in a few minutes there would be another group move in from the north.

Sure was nice to see the Sun again in the sky, was a little fearful of sunstroke for a while, but decided that maybe I should stand up and enjoy the treat. I think today was the third day we have seen the sun since we started hunting, and today was the 13^th day of hunting. R K keeps saying he has never seen an October when he has seen fewer birds.

Best get this posted and see if, I can get some other thing done, this evening before bed time. So remember the troops with a little prayer tonight.

Please check back, and we will see ya

Carl

The Migration continues today, but was hampered by the fact of no sunshine again. The lake was full of pelican this morning when we went out. Boy if you think a hog confinement unit stinks; being down wind of those dudes is no picnic. After they flew out the odor was there for at least another, half hour. They were not too happy that we made then move, but you could not stand that.

Did not see any traveling ducks today, but they could have been above the low hanging clouds. Seen our first big Flocks of Cormorants, as well as many more flocks of Blackbirds, so the move is still on and building.

The guns come out of the rack, enough times that we got off about 6 to 7 rounds each today. There has been many days I have wished we got that many shot in a day.

I hope I have my posting problem fixed. I have moved my margins in WORD and that is what screwed thing up. So I moved them back so will see if that solves the problem. Sorry for the mess up. That don’t explain to my just why the font changes sizes, but that is what it was doing, so we will soon find out

Remember the troops, tonight in your prayers and check back to see if the font is fixed

See Ya Carl

The migration is in full swing

We have the feeling the Migration has begun. There was plenty of activity in the skies today. Seen several species of ducks including Mallards Pintails Gadwalls, Widgeon, and the list goes on. Also had several flocks of Canada’s decoy into us today, and several flocks of Specks all on the move. Most of the Specks were real high. The Canada’s were low but, not sure if they were local or migratory. They were spooky, but one flock we had a shot on two but thought we would get a shot on all so passes. Well surprise, surprise. They put on such a show on their way in, so we were just happy to watch that. We had lost our wind and the lake was glass at that minute, so think that was the problem. We hope so anyway. We harvest a couple of limits of ducks, primary Mallards, a couple of pintails and a gadwall.

Beside the Waterfowl activity, there was much more migration activity. Today there were plenty of Blackbirds, Cormorants, Snipe, Avocet, Spiders, the damn little Ladybug, and I know there was more that I missed than I named. There was always something to be watching in the sky today. We have not seen any blue sky until today so we just enjoyed seeing what was moving. I should also name the planes, but you can guess all of them and they don’t cook up to good.

The boss says this is the week to get there if you are wanting to shoot. Weather does not sound the best, but if the shooting is good who cares.

Sorry about yesterdays posting. I didn’t check it last night and this morning I had two E-Mails telling me the first paragraph is messed up. Well I can’t get it to change and there was not much info there. I will try to work on it a little later to see if I can fix it.

Have some research to do, on the computer, so must close this and get it posted.

Please remember the troops tonight in your prayers

Also please check back and I hope tomorrow, I have a great report

See Ya Carl

The hunting is slow

Best that I try to up date you. I heard today that someone was passing the word that I had broke both index fingers so was un able to up date this blog. Well I have no broken fingers, but the brain has been on vacation as to what to write. Didn’t want to post that we got more rain and the sun did not shine again for the umpteenth time in the month of October. Also there has not been one time when we struggled to carry the birds out, when we left the pits. Reports are there is hundred of birds just a few miles north and west of our location and they are seeing birds but that is not the case at our place. However it sounds like they are not having the best luck either. Since I reported to you last we have not harvested more than two birds on any day and has been only one day when we harvested two and that was today.

Did have some sunshine today, but it is late enough in the season that we should have winds from the North or North West. Well today we had a great wind but if was from the South Southwest. However the wind did dry the ground some and I did see some of the farmers are back in the fields, trying to harvest. We really need for the farmers to get some of this crop out, or better yet ,all of it out.

Had some reports that the Dakota’s, are in worst shape than we are as far as harvest goes, and they are getting snow when we are getting the rain. So I guess it could be worst

Well let hope I have more to report this coming week than we did this past week.

In the mean time , when you are talking to our maker ask him to protect our troops, each and every day.

Please check back and well see ya

Carl

A fun day

What a day, one of the better days of hunting. We all must have a case of the EARLY SEASON JITTERS yet. I promised R K that I would say we had the twofers today. We were short on fire power and then none of us could shoot. See we had four small flocks of geese in today and any one of us should have harvested what the group did. There was 3 to 4 guns, and all we could manage was 8 birds total. Two small flocks of Specks and two small flocks of Canada’s, and just two birds out of each and ever one of those flocks. To be fair the third flock is the only time, we had 4 guns, and the other three go-a-rounds we had only 3 guns. Numbers not to brag about.

I am unsure just what is in store, but in last night report I said I really want to be in on the harvesting of Specks again before I go to the Happy Hunting Grounds. Well we done it today, so I am hoping the Big Guy does not have plans for me.

Now I just have to comment on the Birds we did get down. The Specks were marked, with big black bars. They were defiantly trophy birds. The Canada’s were trophy birds too. They were huge birds, had to be over the 12 pound numbers. Should have put them on a scales, I had an electronic scales, left there last night to do just that. Also had a camera, and didn’t take a picture, but I am blaming that on the depression that set in because of the shooting. Would have been a good picture with BIG BARS and BIG BIRDS together

Guys, It is looking like we are having a early Winter. So if you plan on waiting until the last week in November or December, to show up, you may just be to late. Had a hunter report in, he had just come back from No. Dakota, Said he has never had such a great hunt up there. Said the country is full of Mallards. He lives in So Dakota and there were plenty of birds there also. With the Whitefronts, moving and this is a few days early for them and with a week of snow in the forecast, it is shaping up, and making us believe we will have a early migration. You might as well come and enjoy missing birds with us.

Our friend, the Sand Bar hunter, was commenting on how good Breakfast is in the Blinds. Would some one please name one food, that tastes bad in the blind. I don’t care if it is over or under seasoned Ray Charles Chili, or, Dolly Pardon Chicken on a bed of rice, Cold Sausage and warm, over cooked eggs. They are good when your eating in the pits. I always say that my meals are so good that a Chihuahua could bust an anchor chain, off an oil tanker, just to get to a plate of it. There is no bad grub at any lake, no bad coffee. Can’t stand tap water at home, because it is not cold enough, well it is good right off the shelf in the pits, and may be above 70 degrees, but it is still good, in the blinds. Better close this and plan a meal for tomorrow, just may make up some Dead Cow Stew, These blind meals are the best. Thanks Sure Shot, you helped me out with this a paragraph tonight.

Say a little prayer for all our hero’s that are serving this country, tonight and ever night

See Ya ,and get you buns coming this way because there is room and we are needing the help shooting

Carl

Day two and no pictures

Well things were much slower today, at our pits. We walked away with heaver bag, but fewer birds in the bag. We got into the Canada’s. Was a very small bunch and it was less than great shooting, but we put 2/3 of the flock down. There was on reason for the other one not coming down. He was hit and will never see Kansas again, but limped out of our sight. Also was into ducks two times but that was just plain bad shooting, and I refuse to make excuses for me or any one else. So as tonnage goes we done better today than we did yesterday.

Spotted just a couple flocks of Specks on the move. Was so many yesterday so hoping that there were not more above the clouds, and there are some yet to come. Would be nice to say we got into a few of them. The boss says they have his number, and always get away. Not that I am complaining, but would love to see one on the ground again before I go the happy hunting grounds.

Understand North of us a few miles where all the habitat restoration work has been done, the ducks are staying in those areas and the hunters, are having a time of there life. Great to hear. One of these days they will be moving our way and we will be having the fun, if those guys don’t shoot them all.

Had several E-Mail saying they would never check back if I did not, let out the Cutting Edge Device I spoke of. Well I really suggest if you are one who wanders around in the dark, and especially so if you have a bad leg as your truly, you get one. But go to (www.panthervision.com) and check this unit out. It is a camo cap with 3 Led built in right in and under the bill. They are great. The one on the end of the bill is all you need for walking. The two under are right for going down steps, or reading something, and I have no idea just when you would ever use all three. I understand they are at sporting good stores in Omaha. But they are there when you need than and are not in the way when shooting. Now don’t worry I am not getting any money off this product, because I think I am to damn smart to invent something so simple but so great.

Well I must get this posted so must close

Please remember the troops tonight in your prayers ,and please check back

See Ya Carl

A unusual opening day

Opening day is here and done with. Was the most unusual, opening day I have ever hunted. Have been in the pits on opening day most of the years that I have hunted with Pappa Goose. Starting in 1971. My first day of hunting out there was in 1970. I know that since 1975, I have, open the season in the pits. In those 34 years there has never been an opening day when we had snow, and a major Whitefront push, that day. Today we had both. Have had a major Snow and Blue push, on opening day, but never a Whitefront push. Of course I have never had to wait until October 10 for openday either. Back to the Specks, reports were this morning, they had flown most of the night (Oct 9), and were moving, pretty steady yet this morning. Some were low, but most were real high. When we got to the blinds this morning there was Specks, in the lake, we done our best to get in and out of sights, before they seen us but there are a pretty weary bird and when it got light enough for us to see, there was one lonely Canada, in the decoys. He vacated shortly after we open up on some ducks. The Specks dropped off to almost nothing around 1:00. Was a few flock that looked us over, but none got stupid enough that we shot, However we had near misses on both the Specks and Canada’s. There is tomorrow.

Did get report that some of the spreads got shots at Specks. Have not got any official reports, but rumor were flying that the “Sandbar Hunters you know those Hard working Ram Tough salesmen, got into the Specks good today. Best not get on them to hard cause they are making money, paying into SS, so I can have a couple of check every Month. But if they did I am happy for them. Those Specks, are one tough bird to fool. We ended up with just a few ducks.

We had a couple of suicidal long bill that got in the way of my shot today. I think they die if there is a shot pattern within 6 feet of them. The boss likes to get on me about them, but I feel “IF THEY FLY THEY DIE” so if they are in the way, clear a path, cause there could be a good one just pass him. Beside I had to check out these new eyes, on the birds. Speaking of the new eyes, I did not know I was so blind before. They didn’t have to point out flocks today, I could find them, on my own.

Well best close this. This is Saturday, the night I have to feed and water the old lady, so best hit the tub and do my Hubby thing.

Remember the troops tonight in your prayers, and see ya.

Killer Karl

Less than a week to go

The lake is pumped, the blinds are ready, and the date is growing near. Ralph has been on bird watch most morning and is seeing birds every day. They are mostly Canada’s, but a few ducks too.

The youth hunts that was held in the area was successful at all places I have heard of. Ernie Glup had a big crowd at his lake, as well on his farm pond and they worked the Canada’s over pretty good. I am not sure of the exact number but is was over 20 for the two days. Also several other groups of youth, had a very successful shoot

All reports, lead you to believe the blue wing have all gone south, so the duck activity is a little slower. Sure Shot of Muck Bottoms reports that took some gadwall on their setup, on the youth week end shoot. So maybe there will be some action, there, when we finely get to go to the pits. I am not sure just why the game commission wanted to open so late. But in the past we would have been open by now.

Come the 10 of October, sunrise will occurs at the blinds at 7:30. So with the magic formula of 1 1/2 hours before sunrise, is when we depart from the café, that means we are leaving Tailgator’s Bar and Grill at 6:00. That means if you are wanting them to feed you breakfast, you need to allow time for that. I try to be there one hour before time to leave.

Yesterday, I got called to the bosses house to pick up a piece of new gear, that had been sent from Calif, for me. Well I want you all to know this pieces of equipment is on the cutting edge, and soon all hunter will have it. This is so new that even the dudes at Muck Bottoms, do not have it or even aware, there is such a thing. I would give you more info, but I want every one to envy me, for having one and they not able to even order one. I will expand more on this tool after the season opens, cause you can order, off the internet. I really should show it to the UPS man, because they may have to get some more trucks, to handle the shipments to the area.

Well we are under a week before the action starts. I think, we are ready and I hope the birds are too. Should have went out and took a picture of the lake to post with is but, have a brunch to go to here in a few minutes, making time an issue

As always, remember, to say a little prayer for the troops.

See Ya Carl

The Count Down Has Begun

It has always my belief that Labor Day is the beginning day of the count down to OPENING DAY, of the hunting season. Well it has been postponed for a few days this season when we have to wait until OCTOBER 10, to place our butt on a plank and enjoy nature.

Every year my minds wanders back to days when “The Boss” first got into this sport, and just how rough it was in their blind. Especially, the late season hunting. Their blinds were just something that broke the outline of their body, and the climate was the same inside as it was outside the blind. Today we sit in comfortable, heated, sunken blinds. Their blinds were Willow branches stuck in the mud or they even took chunks of ice and built wall to hide behind. To hear those stories today you hear “they, the ice blinds, were the warm ones” . Sorry but I like the steel, that is wrapped around me as well over my head, along with gas fired burners in front of us, warming the pit, as well cooking my meal. Years back I seen some units they had build, that they put charcoal in they had built in an attempt to help warm themselves. They uses a piece to 10 or 12 inch thin wall pipe or maybe it was sheet metal they rolled it into the pipe, Ralph had the machine shop, and building some thing for hunting was always going on. Anyway the charcoal burner they welded in a cap on both ends, had draft controls so the could regulate the heat, (in my mind was to slow down the consumption of the charcoal supply). Also there was a about a 2”x3” chimney out the top , on one end. They had a piece of expanded metal that they would set on top of this opening and they warmed their food there. I often wonder, if they ever took advantage and cooked a steak, or some other meat. Well this is suppose to be about our upcoming season.

As you might have figured out the boss has everything about ready for the day, but as usual I am still behind, and have some things to get done. I have no excuse except I was wanting it to get dry enough so I could drive, to at least the turn around, but I just decided it is going to we a walking job and I need the exercise anyway so must get busy. If this moisture keeps up, I may have walked off this spare tire I carry now.

Since every paragraph ends up about food today, it is not out of place, especially for you that use the Cabins north of Tekamah, or South of Decatur. http://www.nebraskacountryhillcabins.com A couple of season back one of the best places to eat in this area burnt down. Well they have rebuilt it, and is now open for this hunting season The Green Lantern, in Decatur has been known for some great food, for your evening meal, for over 40 years before it burnt down. It is back and all reports are the food is as still top quality. So remember, you out of the country hunter, The Green Lantern Steak House, should be a place to test while you are here. You will not be sorry. I think you can find more by Googling “Green Lantern Steaks Decatur Ne.”

Also remember the other blog, that gives you a little insight into the hunting in this area. The writer has a way with words , and always writes a very interesting story every time, he sets at his computer. http://www.muckbottom.blogspot.com Read him you will enjoy.

As always say a little prayer for the troops, to night and every night please. That is all they want from us and it is so simple.

See Ya Carl

"LATE" Summer Update

Well it is time that I update you, on the happenings in the Tekamah area, and at the South Lake. The boss has worked out there when ever he has had the opportunity As you may or may not know we have had abundant amount of rain this summer, so there as been days that he could no go to the farm. However this has not kept him from having the place look perfect, as always.

They, (Ralph and Dorothy) have made a trip west, to visit the kids and to celebrate the birth of another Grandchild. They had to go to have their picture taken with this newborn. See this is almost unbelievable, but there is again 5 generations, in the Kohler family. Just think Ralph and Dorothy’s son is a Great Grandpa, and Ralph and Dorothy are GREAT GREAT GRANDPARENTS. This had happened before in the Kohler family. A few years back, before Ralph’s Mother had passed away, there were some of Ralph and Dorothy’s Great grand kids, running around on this earth, then too.

Should have had this up and posted but my summer has been a disaster as far as the computer is concerned. Fist off in early July, my beloved 19” wide screen monitor, died, so I got on the web and ordered a new “Acer” replacement. And could hardly operate with the old 15” monitor I save back when I received that one, from my wife and kids for a birthday. The new one come in and I was singing the happy tunes again, and then about, 8 days later the Computer got a bad virus, and died. Well after about 6 or 7 such experiences, of losing everything, and finding out there was about a $100.00 needed to repair, my old one, I changed to the other brand. Reports are “they don’t get sick”. I found a 4-year-old G5 I-Mac that I could buy right, so now I am learning a new operating system. Now, I have a BRAND NEW 19” wide screen monitor, that I don’t use, so if interested, it is for sale, used lees than a Month. I have had, all the programs loaded, into the new machine, that I should need. It is not all wine and roses, because there have been several times it has been talked to in a NON-complementary fashion. Most of the time when I get stuck and then figure it out, it is, because I was trying to make it harder. To work with picture so far, I find it so much easier, than it was with XP, operating system. So best be clicking the shutter more often this season.

Next info, you are getting, is all about me. Had both eyes worked on and, new glasses, and I did not know I was so near blind. I see good enough that I do not need glasses to drive, and have had that restriction removed from my driver’s license. Have spotted some of our local geese, flying 2 1/2 miles away. This was a small flock of about a dozen, and I spotted them, and I pointed them out, to others. Could not see a flock that size over the west lake last spring.

Now to what you all, are interested in, the season and the Lake. The changes in the lake have all been, the moving of dirt. Again he opened up the “GUT” again by taking more dirt off, the East shoreline. Maybe another 20 yards wider. He has been hauling dirt all summer, and I have to be honest, I have not been out for a long time, and have some work to get done, on the intercom. For the second year in a row, opening day, is late for us. Oct 10^th everything opens. All reports are that there has been a great hatch of all birds, and there has been plenty of rain in most all of the hatching areas, so expectations are running high. The next exciting news is that they are opening up Blue Lake, just north of us on the Iowa side of the river, to hunters this fall. So the normal build up of the geese, should not happen there. Therefore, on good flight days, we should see a few more birds. The boss is saying that should put at least another hundred in our “game bag”.

Best to close this, and get it posted, so as always Please say a little pray for all the young men and women, who are out there protecting our country.

See Ya Carl

Inportant information

Well it is about time, I update you on the season. I have been waiting on more info on the Kohler Dinner, so I could get that info to all of you, too.

The Dinner info comes first

Address for those of you that don’t know is.
Anthony’s Steak house
72 and F street
This is just one block off I 80 on the south side.

Time is 6:00 P M for Conversation and Refreshments
Dinner is at 6:45

The Menu: you have a choice of:
Anthony’s Top Sirloin
Anthony’s Prime Rib
Salmon Wedge
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Dinners cost are between $20.00--$27.00
They take no credit cards, but do Cash or Checks

OK now remember there is no dress code, and if you read this and want to come, Please do. I don’t know what is on the program, but there will be something of interest.

Now back to the Spring season. We shut down hunting on the 28 of March. We killed one bird that day. The exciting thing about this season was, WE NEVER GOT SKUNKED. The real icy day we did not hunt, if we had we may have not had such a record. As for the total for the spring you are going to have to come to the dinner, for Ralph’s report. I do know it was better than last year’s shoot.

Remember the troops in your prayers till we talk again.

I will update if I have some news, so till then take care, and check back

See Ya Carl

A late surprise

We were back in the pits today. Things were a little slow, in the bird department. Took some time to spot the first couple little flocks. The word is there are birds in the area on some of the wetland lands restorations areas, as well there are birds staying a Desota Bend refuge. . We have taken birds everyday we have hunted this spring. We didn’t hunt the Icy day or Mon, Tue, Wed or Thurs, of this week. But if we hunted we took some birds. Some how we though if we would just wait it out, our wait would be rewarded. Well it was worth the wait. Had about 20 (mixed bag of Snow Blues, and Ross’s), drop in on us from the south. When I say drop in I mean DROP IN. They cupped up and come right down into the spread. Had to take then on the first round. Shooting was not the best, but they were close enough to get the smoke pole empty. We took 3. Pack gear and headed home. We thought for a while our record for the year was going to be broke, but the trend continued.

Remember the troops with a bed time prayer, and check back tomorrow, hoping for a bigger report

See Ya Carl

Small crew but a real wrecking crew

Not many hunters today but for the birds we did see we done a real job on. I think we figured out, if we counted one bird that made it to the west lake and they picked it up, that we killed 75% of the birds that got into our shooting zone. On three go-a-rounds we took 15 of 20 birds.

The picture shows what DIP means. If you count there is 6 in the picture. The spray of water is a dog going after one and there was one on out from where the dog is at and one right in front of her. I am making the picture small, so you should be able to click on it and then enlarge. I think and I hope.

An important date coming up and that is April 24, 2009. That is the Annual Kohler Dinner. So here is all the important info you need to know. If you read this report and want to attend, please show up. As I always say there is a strict dress code. NO CAMMO, NO WADERS, NO SMOKE POLES and no DUCK OR GOOSE CALLS. So here goes

Annual Kohler Dinner
When Friday April 24, 2009
Where Anthony’s Steak House
Time 6:00 Cocktails & Conversation
Dinner is served 7:00

I do not have menu as yet but there is some type of a program and Ralph gives us an update on the two seasons. So grab your sweetie, because that is what this is for, and that is to say "Thank You" to the loves in our lives, for letting us go hunting, while they stayed home cooking, cleaning and chasing the kids ETC. At a latter date I will post the menu, Address of Anthony’s and any other info I can’t think of right now.

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

Another two day report

Will start on Friday: First thing and I mean First Thing in the morning, we had a nice flock of about 25 Snows and Blues, come right over the pits. There was numerous problem involved in shooting. Like we were surprised and no one was ready to shoot, some was not even loaded. Then there was the problems like; its cloudy, are they S&B’s, is there any Whitefronts mixed in?? They were not talking, not yet daylight, and it is cloudy making it even more dark, even though it is legal shooting time, so ID-ing them, was a problem. Well all problem were solved and after about 4 rounds we went into action. Put 8 DIP. Later in the morning we had a flock of 5 give us a swing. Two give us a shot so took them and got both. And that was the action for Friday.

Now to today Saturday. Was much slower. Was almost noon before we got a flock in and it was a flock of about 8 and took 5 of then. These were Ross’s and there was a couple other flocks of Ross’s and that was about all we seen.

Have several reports of plenty of geese still south and also report that 1000’s are all laid up in the resting areas (wetlands restorations areas) in the county today. I guess the were sun bathing, as well as socializing and not concerned weather we were being bored to death or not.
This is Saturday so I have to get Mother ready to take a swing on the town tonight.

Remember the troops tonight in your prayers and be sure to check back
See Ya Carl

Both the action and reports, say it is not over yet

They are still moving through, and some decoy and some don’t. But I would say we got into our share today. Was down on hunters but on three go-a-rounds, and one of those rounds it was just a desperation shot. We harvested 10 plus today. My shooting is beyond bad, therefore no help at all.

Reports are there is plenty of birds to come our way yet. I know they have really slowed down, but they are decoying better. Have really had a pretty good week as far as total birds we put in the pond, not all DIP, but still we are picking them up. Most of the birds are young birds and Ross’s but we are getting some pretty decoying, now.

I know this is short but need to get it posted. Remember to say a prayer for all the troops that serve our country

See Ya Carl

We hammered a few again today

Had a great morning. Think every flock, that come along we got into, for a while. Got started about sunrise and I am not for sure the number of go-a-rounds we had, but we totaled out at 26 or 27 birds. Had some great shots, that was preceded by some pretty decoying. Made this old man think of years past, and of the early fall hunts. Just a few birds in a flock, that drop in with their beauty and grace. We may call them Sky Carp, but when they give you a pretty show like they can do, while decoying and then reward you with a great shot, there is no better hunting.

Anyway from about sunrise to about 11:00 we were seeing smaller flocks and they worked real good, but then the larger flocks come along and they are harder to get to work. Most of today’s actions, was all Juvie. Now if we can just get a big snow storm up north and drive then all back again, could make for a good spring hunt

Better post this, so say a prayer for the troops and please check back
See Ya Carl

A powder burning day

Sorry about not being any report last evening. We had made a decoy shift, and got home late and then a some phone calls followed by some very important E-mails, then supper, and then to lazy to go back to the computer. We had about 10 birds, and had seen plenty of birds. What we could call a fair day but nothing to compare to today’s hunt

For today;
Personally, I do not relish a day when the wind changes directions, while we hunt. My phrase is "You don’t see geese until the wind get into the direction it is going to be in at sunset". Well the birds didn’t care just what direction the wind was today. When we were heading out this morning the wind was in the Southeast. We shot geese. Later, it shifted to the Southwest, again we shot geese. The same when it was in the West and then again the Northwest.

Had a hunter there today that was celebrating a birthday, His wife give him a days hunt with us for his birthday, he told me tonight it was his best birthday ever. She pick a great day.

I think we had about 6 go-a-rounds and a total of over 40 birds and could have been double that with just a little luck. Many shell pass through the ol’ smoke pole today. Many empty shell boxes hit the trashcan tonight.

Must go, so please say a little prayer for the Young Men and Women, that serve this country, tonight and every night. Also must say THANKS to the readers at SDSU, but shouldn’t you be studying??

Please check back
See Ya Carl

Mid March Report

An open (ice free) pond, nice south wind, temps in the upper 50’s, along with some migrating geese should spell a good to great day, of snow goose hunting. Well it was not a waste of time but it was not the powder burning day you would think we would have. They moved decoys and change tactics of calling and nothing really worked. Either we have lost our memory, of just how to hunt them or they have just got very suspicious of any thing that could be a decoy. We had several big bunches over us today but can get only a very few to get into gun range. I pulled out a little early, because of a family commitment tonight but when I left we had about 15 in the game bag. If There is a bigger game bag, I will up date you tomorrow, night.

Best get this posted. So say a prayer for the troops and check back
See Ya Carl

They are still decoying

Was still froze up this morning and the birds were still spooky. The ice finely got soft enough and the wind was blowing, so the young guys walked the ice into small pieces and the wind made short work of the rest. Within an hour the lake was almost ice free.

Again today we decoyed thousands of birds but believe me if they are as tough cooked as they are alive there is no way you could drive a fork into the gravy, let on the bird. Did see one tumble today, but it must have been a small bird there, he was dodging. They are not going to let you know they are interested in your spread. In years past if we had seen this many birds decoy we would have been stacking 4 to 5 dozen in the game bag. We didn’t hit 2 dozen today. The troops shot good too, so that is not the excuse.

Meant to report last night that we had seen our first JUVIE. We took one yesterday, but we had a pretty good number of them today, among the ones we took.

This is Saturday so I have my duty to take mommy out, so must hit the tub and shine my shoes.

Remember the troops in you bed time prayers and please check back
See Ya Carl

Two for one today

First off there is an important announcement WE NOW ARE LEAVING THE CAFÉ AT 6:15.

Next to explain yesterday and the activity. I had a problem with a tire on my hunting van. No customers in my pit, so I come it to get a different tire, check with a DR. and get a new Bulb in the headlight of my van. Well I got the tire fixed shot home to check with the Dr., to see if I could get in to see him. Well, there was not time for a visit with him, so I sat down in my chair. See, I have this bad infection in my body, that kicks in every once in a while. What happens, when I but some pressure on my BUTT it forces my eyes shut. When my wife had supper ready, she woke me and it was to late to check with the boss and write a report. So I got one of the three jobs done.

As for the activity for Thursday they had 3 go-a-rounds.

Now for today’s activity. We are getting a few guns and some of them can shoot. Was into geese 4 times today. Have to tell you that on one go-a-round we took 19 birds out of the flock. There was plenty of birds, but is was some darn good shooting too.

They decoyed pretty good today, but believe me when I say they are very cautious. I have not seen a light goose do there thing and appear happy they have found a place to set down and give us a good show, yet this year. That is the fun in hunting Sky Carp, They used to give us a real show, with there "corn shucking" or tumbling as the come in. I used to think, they had the idea that there was a race to see just which one could get into the spread first. It was a thrilling show, but they are so cautious any more.

Now remember that we are leaving earlier, 6:15, and also remember to say a prayer for the troops tonight. Please check back

See Ya Carl

IF YOU SNOOZE YOU LOSE

You guys, You can not hunt these geese from your arm chair. Do you realize there was a big snow storm north us and those geese can not find food under the snow. We seen thousands of birds today and almost all of our hunters, had over a box of shell slip out the barrel of their smokepole on a crash course with a birds today. NINE TIMES-9-NINE TIMES, do you understand 9 times we went into action. And you set there in front of the TV, watching Dr. Phil or something other boring show. It should not been a tough job figuring that all the birds that went north would be back with all the snow that fell in the Dakota’s yesterday. I don’t know what it is going to take to wake you guys up, if you don’t show up, it is not because you have not been told

Have to go, so remember the troops in you bed time prayers and please check back

See Ya Carl

A little action, after a long wait

Things were slow for a long time today. Was not seeing to many, and the ones we did see would not finish for us. We killed one out of two. We had some big competition, all the birds were going into the west lake, and no one was hunting over there. It is pretty tough to hunt when you have a couple thousand birds in the same section of land. For some reason they like live birds over our fakes. Also they seam to like each other’s company, and don’t mind being a little crowded. I took a phone call from a hunter that wanted to come out and hunt when he got off work and I told him, not to waste his time. Well things turned around, and we started getting some birds in and we killed 13 more after I told him it stay home. Bet he is going to tell me thank you, the next time we meet. We changed the decoys, and that may have helped, but the Boss says he don’t like what they look like yet.

I forgot to tell you that on Sunday we had 5 real big swans, come in and set for a few minutes. They looked like their necks were 4 feet long. They were nervous, and kept their heads high, checking for danger. Didn’t think there should be people standing in holes and watching them, so didn’t stick around long. Still was an interesting sight never the less.

Best post this so Check back and say a prayer for the troops.
See Ya Carl

We are needing help

Wake up, you hunters. The snows and blues are moving through and we are in need of hunters. I know when I tell you that we killed only one bird today, you are going to say why get excited for one bird. Well I was the only one shooting at that bird, and there were more to be shot at. We had thousands of birds down on us today, and there we set. They were doing pretty good, as far as the decoying went today and, all were in pretty good size flocks. The one I shot was a loner but you don’t want to tell a thousand birds we were there, by one guy shooting into a big flock. Also you just have to know, you can’t kill a bird, by sleeping late, and not hunting.

Please remember to say a prayer for the troops, tonight and I hope we have a better report tomorrow.
See Ya Carl

Better success today

Had some action today. There was not to many on the move but we made the best out of what was moving. Was also a little short on fire power, and it showed up on the kill side of the ledger. We had 7 or 8 guns today and there was two go-a-rounds, and counting one we could not pick up we had 15 for the day. But today was marked with our first great decoying birds. The first flock was pretty early in the day and once they locked up I don’t recall them pumping their winds until we shot. Those are the sights, that us Sky Carp Shooter, really enjoy. The only problem was the wind made their decoying back behind the blind today. Don’t want to complain about the wind to much, because we have not had any for two days, and we had a great wind today. However, it put the birds behind the blind so we could not get our joy’s watching them do there thing, as they sail into the spread. They are the greatest for putting on a decoying show as they come in and that is what we love to see.

We are to get some snow and we think these birds were moving back into this part of the country to get ahead of the storm. as it moves South

This is Saturday night so have to take the little woman out for a meal so best, post this a go.
Remember to say a little prayer for all our hero’s tonight. Please check back and we’ll see ya Carl

The Blue Ross

I got it done. You should be able to click on the picture and enlarge.

There tough this year

Tonight’s, reports is going to be short. Have received the picture of the Blue Phase Ross goose, and I have spent an hour trying to move it into a file so I could post it on this report. Well my computer skills are not tuned for such an operation, so assistance is required.

As for today hunt. The birds are still tough and they even slowed down on there decoying. I think we seen as many birds today as yesterday, but much fewer would decoy. Also had the ice to go out of the lake, so we have a wide open hunting place as of now. Sounds like there is going to be a cooler spell coming in so will put back ice at night, but most likely loose it during the day.
As for the kill today: As I said we decoyed fewer today, than yesterday and the shooting slowed down today as well. Had a pair that got into gun range and they took one, along with one flock. And only one of then was taken too. We worked as hard but the results come up short.

Maybe I will get the picture moved into a file later and get it post another time.

Please check back later and say a prayer for the troops tonight
See Ya Carl

There on the Move

Well when "Ol’ Sol" raised his head and come over the horizon, for the first day back in the pits, we had already seen some ducks and some Canada’s. We had no idea just what was in store for us today. They are on the move, and what a great day. The kill was not out standing, but flock after flock decoyed, and I do not mean, little flock either. There was flock of 5 and there was flocks of nearly 500. The boss is saying we had to have upwards of 30 flocks, that decoyed, but with absolutely no wind, to harvest, what we did was, a near miracle. Also, the lake was totally covered with ice, With the warm weather we had today it is getting pretty rotten. We did get a little wind late in the day, we had just one flock out of 3 that we did not get into. Took 4 out of one flock and two out of another. Never the less, it was an enjoyable day. Early season jitters and a few other problem plagued, our shooting, Another reason for such a low total. The mud is so bad right now, so blinds floor, gun stocks, and everything else is muddy, and it handicaped some of us big time.

Another thing of beauty, was the ducks, Canada’s and a few Specks, were all putting on a show for us to enjoy, most of the day. Some of the flocks of Canada’s were huge. Some time numbering into the hundreds. Ducks like we never seen last fall. One time we had around 500 ducks flying all around when we were trying to decoy some Snow and blues. One sight I missed seeing today, we did not see one goose do what we call "corn shuck". That is when they pull the tumbling act, as they decoy, maybe they don’t do that on still days.

Before I forget to put it into this report. We got a phone call from another group of hunting in the Schlyler area today saying that they had Shot a very rare bird. They took a blue phase Ross goose. Later in the day through some technology that I do not under stand, we had a picture on a cell phone. Sure looked like it is what they were saying. Had a short pink bill, and a very weird blue pattern on it. Sure wish I could be that lucky, I think they are worth a few bucks, and have heard report there is no such thing. Well I seen one and that is my story and I am going to stick with it. Will work on getting a picture and post it soon.

We are back at it tomorrow, so hoping for some better numbers for the report then. So please check back and please say a prayer for all the Men and Women who serve our country, tonight
See Ya Carl

After the big storm

Since I am receiving phone calls and E-Mails, asking for the results of the week end hunt. Well Mother Nature, canceled all plans of such hunt. I said that there was at least a 4-5 inch snow fall and there is a guy that has a custom snow removal business here, said if I would have scooped as much as he did, I would know it was between 6 and 7 inches. Either amount plus the cold wave, canceled and put me right back into the recliner for another snooze.

Reports are that as soon as there is a little water and some bare ground, we will be back in the saddle again. Rockie is driving in, on Wednesday, so for sure we will be hunting on Thursday. We have some great warm weather forecast, starting today and it gets better everyday, this week.

Reports before the snow storm, there were 1,222,630 geese at Squaw Creek, or Mound City Mo. That is the last stopping point before our area. We had just a few in the area before the storm and from reports I got from the BOSS he seen a flock of over 100, do just as he wanted then to do. Reports, he was very excited about their flight path. SOUNDS GOOD TO ME.
So Pull the plug, oil the old gal up, pack a lunch, and plunk your butt, on the seat and lets have some full.

Will be reporting again as soon as we hit the pits, and have some action. Till then keep the troops in your prayers, and check back
See ya Carl

The Clock is Ticking

The moment is getting closer. The lake is ready, the blinds, are ready, the decoys are set, and the place looks great. Again I am forced to say that if we don’t have some great action this spring, we best leave the decoys in the shed next spring. The boss has the place looking as pretty, as a June bride. I would like to describe it to you just how he has it set up but, there is no words this guy knows, that can describe, it except "pretty."

The reports are that there is over 600,000 at Squaw Creek area, That is a historic number for this early in the spring. The long range (15 days) weather forecast, is calling for some snow at the end of that period, so hoping there is a few that make it North before they, get sent back South. They, decoy so good, on the return trip. God could smile on us again, with some action like that. We are in the last week of February and that is when, we usually start to occupy the blinds. Have some hunters that are on standby with lunches packed, guns oiled and ready to roll, as soon as the birds arrive.

Spoke with a hunter, that hunts east of the Rain Water Basin (center of the state) and he seen a few flocks Sunday, and he has always started to hunt and shoot a few days before we do. So things are so close.

Spoke to the boss again this morning and he said he still has a few Memberships to fill, so if interested, please contact him.

Best to keep checking back, cause one of these days we will be hammering and filing reports, daily.

So say a prayer for the troops, daily and please check back

See Ya Carl

Spring Update

Spring is getting closer so think I should up date this. Even though, I have not talked to the Boss for over a week, I know he is busy getting the blinds an surrounding area ready for the spring hunt. When I did talk to him the other day he ask me to tell you that he has a few memberships open, if some of you guy’s are interested. There has been a couple of the older members, that are not going to take their membership and RK would like to fill these. I think it figures out that if you hunt 10 days in the fall, you are money ahead. Really a bargain, and it is even a bigger bargain, if you hunt the spring hunt. So if interested, please contact Ralph

Has been a pretty cold winter so far, and we have had snow on the ground for so long. I know that our big, snow month, February and March are still in front of us, but it is getting the time of year when we do get snow, it is gone in a couple of days.

As for a prediction on our up coming harvest/season, I am refusing to shoot off my mouth. Last year if you remember, I SWAG-ed it at some dumb number that we didn’t get closed to. Been trying to live that number down every since. I was going to tell you I was predicting just 2 birds, but was sure that, some smart A-- would remind me that I was not going to be the only shooter.

The above was written a couple of weeks ago, and for some reason I didn’t post, so will continue with an update on the update.

We have been getting several reports, of birds building up in the Squaw Creek area, so the day is not far away when we will be again burning some powder. I was out this morning and got the blaster almost installed. The Boss has been work almost every day for the last month so he says "as soon as they get here, we are ready". There has been some reports of some birds, in our area, before this cold blast that is here today. So they are eager to move and will as soon as we get some favorable weather for them. While working out there this morning, I did see a couple flocks of dark birds, but no Carp.

Think I will close and post before I forget to post again. Soon we will again be making daily reports, but until then, please remember the troops in your daily prayers.

See Ya Carl

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