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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 11:36:00 AM

Title: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 11:36:00 AM
Another great year at Shrewhaven bow camp is history. We went a little earlier this year. Instead of the 1st week in November we went the middle of October. The weather was much warmer than we've been accustom to but it was beautiful Indian summer none the less.

The 75 year old Tamarack log cabin was home for eight men for ten days. The gas lighted wood heated old cabin has a charming atmosphere that is soothing to the soul. The time went too fast.

 
 (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%202.JPG)

     (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%203.JPG)

     (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%204.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 11:42:00 AM
I don't do much in camp, I hunt a little... eat a lot... sleep a lot... and the rest of the time I just stand around and tell everyone else what to do...    :archer:

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%20Patriarch.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 11:50:00 AM
We got a wonderful addition to camp this year. Thanks to Tim Crosgrove and his son in law Eric Bell we have a new Privy...and it's a HUM DANDY! They built it at home and hauled it to camp on a car hauler. Eric had an great idea and built an eaves trough with a down spout that pipes rain water down into the hole. Those that have outhouses in camp know the importance of putting plenty of water down the hole.

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%20new%20privy.JPG)

 
      (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011-privy%202.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Duker on October 25, 2011, 11:52:00 AM
Great pictures    :thumbsup:     THANKS Ron     :campfire:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: KentuckyTJ on October 25, 2011, 11:54:00 AM
Fantastic place, I bet some of your best work is done in there Ron...    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Bowmag on October 25, 2011, 11:56:00 AM
That's relaxing just to look at.
Thanks for sharing
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: RkyMtn Joe on October 25, 2011, 12:01:00 PM
That all looks so "right"---the way good hunting shouyld be done.

Joe
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 12:10:00 PM
The main cabin has a large gathering room and a separate bunk room.  Last year we finished this new building near the main cabin. It has a small storage room on one end and the other side is a bunk room that I call my "Apartment", also know as "Lobo's Lair". It has gas heat and electricity powered by my Honda 3000 generator. It's well insulated and almost sound proof. I'm getting so that I can't stay up and jaw with the young guys late into the night anymore so now I just say goodnight and head off to my lair. I figure when a man gets my age he deserves some comforts...    :rolleyes:

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011-new%20addition.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: swampthing on October 25, 2011, 12:12:00 PM
Baby wipes! nice addition for the "chile contest"   :pray:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 12:15:00 PM
By the weeks end eight hunters took ten deer. Wolves or coyotes got a buck that we decided to leave and track the next day so that would have made eleven.

That's my osage broken bow walking stick that I'm holding.

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%201.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: wv lungbuster on October 25, 2011, 12:16:00 PM
Awesome pics, I've been waiting for these.   :campfire:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 12:22:00 PM
Here's one of the two deer that Ray Lyon took with his Super Shrew, cedar arrow and Trailmaker broadhead. A good number of the deer were taken with the Trailmaker broadhead this year.

   (http://***********.bowsite.com/tf/pics/00small42478003.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: jcar315 on October 25, 2011, 12:23:00 PM
Great pics Ron thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: cacciatore on October 25, 2011, 12:34:00 PM
Awesome! I like to hear your reports at Shrewhaven!
You made some really nice and useful additions on camp.
10 for 8 is damn good.  :clapper:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: bayoulongbowman on October 25, 2011, 12:35:00 PM
the smile says it all Ray!!!! Congrats!! Man! , mark   :goldtooth:    :goldtooth:    :goldtooth:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Over&Under on October 25, 2011, 12:40:00 PM
Love that last pic with everyone lined up....so many memories at Shrewhaven over the years, that place keep on giving!!  Thanks for sharing Ron!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: coaster500 on October 25, 2011, 12:45:00 PM
Great pictures and that is one fancy throne!!!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: stik&string on October 25, 2011, 12:52:00 PM
Thanks for sharing Ron!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: TRT on October 25, 2011, 12:54:00 PM
Great picks Mr. Ron!  There is nothing like a good deer camp, good friends and meat on the pole!!!  

It is always fun to read about Shrewhaven.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 01:23:00 PM
We eat pretty darn good there too. Some of the meals consisted of, leg of lamb (two of them), Prime rib, venison back straps, deep fried walleye, froglegs, and cod, our annual squirrel supper, pork ribs,fried chicken and two days in a row Ray baked made from scratch apple pies...4 of them total. If you've never had Ray's apple pie, you haven't lived, they are the absolute best pies you'll ever wrap a lip around...    :eek:  He uses granny smith and mackintosh apples and they will melt in your mouth..   :jumper:

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/ShrewhavenPies.jpg)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Fritz on October 25, 2011, 01:26:00 PM
Thanks for sharing pics of such a great place!!! I look forward to your post about your cabin every yr.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Dirtybird on October 25, 2011, 02:23:00 PM
Glad to hear everyone had a good time.  Your making me hungry to Ron.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: mmisciag on October 25, 2011, 02:44:00 PM
Ron,

I've been waiting to see this thread all year. Glad to hear all had a great time and success.

Martin
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: IndianaBowman on October 25, 2011, 02:46:00 PM
Good friends, good food, good hunting, and great camp!

You are a blessed man Mr. Ron!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: tradlongbow on October 25, 2011, 02:56:00 PM
Great pics, I'm sure you guys had a great time.

Thanks,
Darren
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: snakebit40 on October 25, 2011, 03:04:00 PM
Wow now that's a camp I would love to join!     :notworthy:      :archer:     Thanks Ron
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: awbowman on October 25, 2011, 03:08:00 PM
There isn't anything much better than "DEER CAMP"!  Thanks for sharing.  OH, and you ain't old YET!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Bill Turner on October 25, 2011, 03:09:00 PM
Now that is a hunting camp fit for a king. Looks great. Only thing missing is a Sears and Roebuck catalog for the privvy. Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Big Ed on October 25, 2011, 03:14:00 PM
Very nice Ron!!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Thumper Dunker on October 25, 2011, 03:27:00 PM
Cool stuff. Thats one fancey out house.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Hopewell Tom on October 25, 2011, 03:32:00 PM
I was just wondering when we'd hear from you. What a spot you've got. What a time you had. Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: 2treks on October 25, 2011, 03:32:00 PM
I am getting hungry just thinking about all that good food.
A week in camp with some good friends...Don't get much better.Thanks for sharing Ron,


CTT
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 03:33:00 PM
Quote
 Only thing missing is a Sears and Roebuck catalog for the privy.  
The catalog has been replaced by Baby Wipes..   :rolleyes:  .............   :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Hud on October 25, 2011, 03:37:00 PM
Thanks for sharing your time at Shrewhaven this year. Love the fall colors and fresh air. The throne looks a lot better than the one my family had at Lake Manistee, NW of Grayling many years ago.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Kapellmeister on October 25, 2011, 03:54:00 PM
Looks like a glorious place to be this time of year!

Nice hooter too, Ron!   ;)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: LongStick64 on October 25, 2011, 04:06:00 PM
That is a awesome representation of what this sport is about.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: ishoot4thrills on October 25, 2011, 04:08:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Ron LaClair:
 
quote:
 Only thing missing is a Sears and Roebuck catalog for the privy.  
The catalog has been replaced by Baby Wipes..    :rolleyes:   .............    :saywhat:    :thumbsup:    :p    

I can now tell them that if Ron packs them then that's good enough for me!   :biglaugh:

Very cool cabins you all have there too. Looks like a fantastic time.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Wiley Coyote on October 25, 2011, 04:13:00 PM
Thanks for sharing your hunt! I look forward to this every fall! I have hunted moose, antelope and hogs from a camp but never deer. They are too close to home to justify a trip!!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 04:17:00 PM
Quote
 I'm all in on the baby wipes! Now I have some defensive ammo for when my huntin' cabin buddies("Two Wolves" and "KY Double Lung") make fun of me because I pack a good supply of baby wipes!   I can now tell them that if Ron packs them then that's good enough for me!  
Now hold on...I didn't say that the baby wipes was mine an I'm not gonna embarrass any of my pards by tellin Who brung em..     :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 04:20:00 PM
Here's me pretending I shot all these deer...   :D

   (http://***********.bowsite.com/tf/pics/00small24503058.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Roger Norris on October 25, 2011, 06:33:00 PM
"Wet ferns and saw-grass has always been good nuff fer me" Ron LaClair

Take my word for it, the Old Timer aint kiddin'.
On our loooong drive west across the UP, I was looking for a place to, well, you know, "rest"...I casually mentioned that the TP was packed deep in the truck....Ron scoffed at me....."the woods are full of toilet paper Sledge!"
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Roger Norris on October 25, 2011, 06:35:00 PM
Dangit I miss it already.....
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: maineac on October 25, 2011, 06:47:00 PM
What a beautiful place.  Looks like it draws some fine hunters and great comrades.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: drewsbow on October 25, 2011, 06:48:00 PM
cool pics and thanks for sharing  :campfire:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Killdeer on October 25, 2011, 07:21:00 PM
Holy crapper!    :eek:  
I miss my old outhouse. The forest service put in a resonation station, and the old wooden privy is gone. Gone the spring-ginging door, wherefrom one could gaze upon God's beauteous Creation while balancing atop the wobbly white-enameled steel seat. Gone the fickle drafts that played about your nether parts, whispering of the turkeys up the ridge, the deer among the hawthorns, an ever-present barometer of game movement.  

But you, you have a Taj Mahal, paneled in pearls, yet bespeaking strength, a veritable seat of power, a monument to the inner workings of Mankind.
I am awed.
The very sight of it might bind me up for a week.

Now, about those deer. Their eyes are closed. How did you do that, you shoot them in their sleep? Sew them shut like the seeled eyes of Berkut Golden Eagles? Sew them shut like the headshrinkers of old? My deer hang around wide-eyed, gathering data from the words and workings of their killers, to pass on as spirit-lore to their kin still roaming the hills. Nothing can escape their eternal gazes, and over many years their intelligence-gathering has led to a dire waning of my prowess as a hunter. I will, should I become lucky enough to kill more deer, start blindfolding them after hanging, and only allow pig Latin to be spoken in my camp.

Yet again I have learned from watching you, Ron.
I am so very grateful.
  :notworthy:    
Killdeer    :archer:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Jim Boettcher on October 25, 2011, 07:28:00 PM
Great pics Mr. LaClair. I also look forward to this thread each fall. Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: GO Rogers on October 25, 2011, 07:35:00 PM
:campfire:    :coffee:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Bonebuster on October 25, 2011, 07:39:00 PM
God bless Shrew Haven!

I have grown to look forward to the pictures and updates every year.

Thanks SO much for posting.

God bless Shrew Haven!!!  :campfire:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: jsweka on October 25, 2011, 07:45:00 PM
I really enjoyed the pics Ron.
Thanks for posting them!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Roger Norris on October 25, 2011, 07:48:00 PM
"Now, about those deer. Their eyes are closed. How did you do that, you shoot them in their sleep? "

We are ugly and don't bath often. They are cringing.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Killdeer on October 25, 2011, 07:52:00 PM
Reminds me of an experiment I did one season.

Killdeer   :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: RedShaft on October 25, 2011, 07:58:00 PM
thanks for sharing! i always love seeing you guys pics. you put the deer on the ground. great job guys!!  :clapper:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Jwilliam on October 25, 2011, 07:59:00 PM
Great pictures !!!  :thumbsup:  Thanks for sharing Ron !!!


Bill
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: HARL on October 25, 2011, 08:04:00 PM
GREAT STUFF !!!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: NoCams on October 25, 2011, 08:28:00 PM
Mason and I look forward to this thread each year. Looks like ya'll had a great time and a bountiful harvest. That there Shrewhaven is quickly becoming the only 5 star resort in the UP.

Ron, hows about introducing us to the Shrewhaven gang from L to R in the pic in front of the cabin, ughhh, errrr, I mean Grand Foyer of Shrewhaven there ? How many chickens and other critters were fried in the chicken cooker ? Nuthin like good ole cast iron, ehhhh Ron ?
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 25, 2011, 08:35:00 PM
Killy...     :smileystooges:     I told them NO ONE better touch that old $hi--er...it's a big part of the HISTORY of Shrewhaven. Heck me and ole "eye of the goose" Heath signed the inside wall  after we put it together in June of 2000.

Bears clawed it, porcupines chewed on it, it withstood 10 winters of deep snows and double digit below zero temperatures. Not to mention being subjected to the humility of having bare bottoms pressed on it's seat of honor hundreds of times over the years.

After many years of loyal servitude the old outhouse still stands. It leans slightly and is scared from tooth and claw, It's once bright green paint is now faded to bare wood in some places.  Even so it stands, always ready to serve ....as a backup to the new one which in all it's splendor is after all only.... a one hole'r..    :dunno:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: rastaman on October 25, 2011, 08:41:00 PM
Thanks for sharing the pictures and humor sir!   :wavey:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: gregg dudley on October 25, 2011, 08:44:00 PM
I always look forward to the posts of your annual hunt, Ron.  Thnaks for taking us along.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Rob DiStefano on October 25, 2011, 08:51:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Ron LaClair:
   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011%20new%20privy.JPG)
 
       (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011-privy%202.JPG)
holy moly!  that is one heckuva ROYAL THRONE!!!    :notworthy:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Autumnarcher on October 25, 2011, 09:11:00 PM
Thats a dandy privvy, but I couldn't help but notice somethings missing. No reading material.
Shouldn't there be some TBM's and a few archery catalogs in there? How's a feller supposed to concentrate? Plus, it gives ya somethin to swat flies with.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Killdeer on October 25, 2011, 09:38:00 PM
Magazines and catalogs?
How banal.
A privy should have graffiti.
There should be a can of dry markers, all colors, right where the baby wipes are. Offensive and trite material gets wiped off, and the good wit and artwork gets sprayed with Tuffilm.

The baby wipes can be used as deer blindfolds.
Killdeer
(leaving for camp on Saturday!   :D   )
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: limbow on October 25, 2011, 10:08:00 PM
I was literally sitting in my stand last evening thinking about Shrew Haven and when the report would show up here on the Gang. It's been a while since I have had a good laugh or even the crack of a smile. Thanks Ron and Shrew Haven crew, I ended up with both!!! Great pics and stories, I look forward to them each and every season.

Killy- You are welcome in my deer camp anytime, you just have to promise to bring along your wisdom and cheer. Your posts are ALWAYS a good read  :)

Kevin in Michigan
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Stumpkiller on October 25, 2011, 10:16:00 PM
Nice!

For some reason I think there should be a plaque over this scene that says "Law West of the Pecos"

  (http://***********.bowsite.com/tf/pics/00small24503058.JPG)

  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: awbowman on October 25, 2011, 10:22:00 PM
Nice harvest.  Always good to do the nanny dead dance!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: bolong on October 25, 2011, 10:23:00 PM
:thumbsup:    Great stuff, thanks for sharing!!!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ray Lyon on October 26, 2011, 08:12:00 AM
Wow, what a great camp!!!! Other than the wind the first 3 days, it was definately indian summer weather. Someone asked about labeling the participants on the hero photo so here it goes from left to right:
Roger Norris, Armstrong Ghost Super Shrew Longbow
Eric Bonnet (Kevins son in law) Super Shrew
Your's Truely, Super Shrew (60")
Greg Nicolaou, cheif chef, Super Shrew Scout recurve
Tim Cosgrove, proprietor Kustom King Archery, Super Shrew Samurai and chief camp remodeling designer
Kevin Marshall, Super Shrew "North American Safari"
Eric Bell, (Tim's Son in law), Super Shrew, first mate to Tim on camp redesign and construction projects, walleye frying extraordinare and architect of the water pump system from the creek to the cabin.

Last but certainly not least, Ron "Lobo" LaClair with his North American Safari Super Shrew.


One correction to Ron's post, that doe I'm pictured with was shot with a Magnus two blade 125 grain head. She landed 15 yards from the Brule River and for a moment I thought I was going to have a cold crossing on the track.  My second doe was shot with a Kustom King Trailmaker head and holy moly Batman, we're talking some serious blood.  

The one benefit to going early was we got in a little bird hunting. Greg (his lab Penny was in camp with us), myself and Roger took a 1 hour stroll and came back with 3 woodcock and 2 grouse. Loads of fun and they were invited to dinner wrapped in Ron's special bacon on the last night of camp.  Tim also brought some doves up from Indiana and we did those on the grill as well wrapped in bacon. It's all incredible.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Nattybumppo on October 26, 2011, 08:50:00 AM
Thank you guys for sharing. THIS looks like a fun hunt. Each area of the country has a different hunting camp culture and one of the few things I envy you yankees is the MI deer camp heritage.

It just looks like you guys have a great time. And remember Pappa Bear said: "A downed animal is most certainly the object of a hunting trip, but it becomes an anticlimax when compared to the many other pleasures of the hunt" Fred Bear
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Mudd on October 26, 2011, 09:16:00 AM
How cool is this?.... Way!!!.... I'm saying....

Ron I truly believe that we could be kindred spirits and I know we both got the good looks...lol

Killie dear, if I were you there's no way on God's green earth..................


I'd ever pass up that invite!

Thanks to all from Shrewhaven who have contributed to making my days better with all of the additions and contributions you post here on tradgang.

God bless us all!

His servant, Mudd
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: NoCams on October 26, 2011, 09:22:00 AM
Thanks Ray for adding the names to the police lineup there bud ! Congrats again gents !
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Pepper on October 26, 2011, 09:29:00 AM
To Ron and the whole crew, thanks for a great pic review of your hunt.
We live vicariously through your Shrewhaven post.
I look forward to leaving for camp and to seeing this post.
Congratulations to all and thanks to all of you for a great adventure.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Shaun on October 26, 2011, 09:30:00 AM
What? No bricks in the UP?
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: FightingCelt on October 26, 2011, 09:40:00 AM
Living the Dream...Congrats
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 26, 2011, 09:51:00 AM
police lineup?    :scared:    :eek:

On that thought, we heard that our old friend Conservation Officer Dave Painter was awarded "Officer Of the year" which is STATE WIDE!   :thumbsup:   What an honor for him and I couldn't think of a more deserving person.

Dave has been the C O in our area for a very long time. He is a traditional bow hunter and always drops around to chew the fat and tell us the latest stories of law breakers that he has encountered.

Dave is an honest hard working C O that has the respect of everyone (fear from some) in his district. A few years ago he was credited with catching a pretty large poaching ring that had been killing deer and selling the meat.

Here's a picture of Dave and I at the Cabin one evening when he stopped by to show us a buck rack that he took from a Poacher he caught not far from our area.

Congratulations Dave...   :clapper:  

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/12pt_poached.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ray Lyon on October 26, 2011, 10:04:00 AM
Ron's right, Dave is one of the truely dedicated public service guys and the UP wildlife in our area is much better off with him on patrol.  Of course when he stops by and shows us his personal harvest from time to time (which are always dandy bucks) we give him the good natured ribbing "of course it's easier to kill the big ones with a spotlight on your truck".   :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: LITTLEBIGMAN on October 26, 2011, 10:15:00 AM
good stuff here thanks for sharing
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Vesty on October 26, 2011, 10:27:00 AM
As a native Michigander, we know the heritage and lore of "deer camp". We also know that deer camp in the glorious UP is second to none.It is close to impossible to put into words what happens deep within your spirit when you cross the mighty Mac. It is certainly one of those things that you must experience in order to appreciate. God bless the Shrew Crew and thanks for sharing deer camp with us.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: straitera on October 26, 2011, 10:28:00 AM
Bows on the Little Shrewhaven! Near mirror of Glenn & Fred. Thanks Ron for the pix & descriptions. What a great time & great hunting!

Bad boy rack above. Too bad it was poached! Send Dave my congratulations catching the rat bas..rd!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: kibok&ko on October 26, 2011, 10:42:00 AM
wonderful time !
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 26, 2011, 10:53:00 AM
We moved the old cabin onto it's present site in the spring of 2000. After our first stay there that fall I wrote these words to try to describe it.

  Nestled in a secluded valley, far off the beaten path, on the banks a of a small stream, is a little cabin called Shrew Haven.  Originally built in 1936, this rustic pine cabin was only recently moved to it's current location.

The original intent was just to have a hunting camp, a place to hang your hat and bow.  But Shrew Haven has become more than that... much more.  Shrew Haven has revealed itself an enchanting environment, where the bow hunting experience is enhanced ten fold. It is a place of peace and tranquility; a place where a person can recharge their spirit, feed their soul, and share wonderful times with fellow bow hunters.  

In today's modern world we have created for ourselves an unnatural environment; but God created man to be part of nature. And although we may survive in our big city's and urban neighborhoods, we need the wilderness to help keep us mentally healthy.  

Shrew Haven is an Oasis, where we must return as often as we can, to drink deep of it's healing waters, and thus be sustained 'til we come to this place again.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: awbowman on October 26, 2011, 11:03:00 AM
Beautifully said Mr. LaClair.  

I often tell people that building my cabin added twenty years to my life, and I believe it!

I call it "TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED"
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Tom Leemans on October 26, 2011, 11:11:00 AM
Ahhh I can remember the first time the fellas in our annual public land deer camp were introduced to baby wipes by me. I had little ones in the house back then. Oh sure, they all laughed when I carried them to the outhouse, but the day after taco night was another story. Everyone was singing the praises of baby wipes. They all carry them now. I miss those days. I hope to have enough property one day to be able to have my own "haven", or at least own property next to a large public tract.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 26, 2011, 11:18:00 AM
In the evening the stories of the day are told by the soft glow of the gas lights.

   (http://***********.bowsite.com/tf/pics/00small15493225.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 26, 2011, 11:38:00 AM
Here are the words to a song that I wrote some time back. It gets sung in camp every fall

   
Quote
  Down in Shrew Vally by old Armstrong Creek
Sits a little log cabin with wood floors that squeak.  

In the evening the soft glow of gas lights are there
while outside there are whitetails,gray wolves and black bear.  

Up on the oak ridge the acorns are falling.
the bucks they are grunting, the does they are calling  

So we slip in our stand and we wait for a buck
if the wind is just right all we'll need is some luck.  

Now come hang up your buck on our deer hanging rail
then sit by the fire and tell us your tale  

For the stories of hunting is why we come here
to hear the stories and to hunt for the great Whitetail deer
 
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Gus on October 26, 2011, 03:11:00 PM
Ron and the Shrew Haven crew - sure doesn't seem like 11 years since we helped move the cabin in.Even though we are blessed to live only a short distance from Shrew Haven  we really look forward to and enjoy our time spent with "You's Guy's" at camp. Shrew Haven is a very special place and the Shrew crew are very special friends. If God's willing we will see you next year. -- Gus,Cindy,Ken and Doug
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Rick Butler on October 26, 2011, 03:20:00 PM
No ifs, ands or buts; Shrewhaven is a classic.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: dave19113 on October 26, 2011, 03:24:00 PM
Thats a hunt I would dream to be at............Excellent story and pics
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: MI_Bowhunter on October 26, 2011, 03:30:00 PM
I love hearing the yearly stories from Shrewhaven.

My family has a cabin the UP.   The main room of was built by my grandfather in the late 30's.    It's one of my favorite places to be.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: todd smith on October 26, 2011, 04:55:00 PM
Thanks Ron and all!!!  I love seeing the pictures and hearing the reports of Shrewhaven every year.  A couple friends and I used to have a little three sided log shelter and every muzzle loader season we'd do a walk in camp with flintlocks and 1753 era garb.  Great times!  I've never been a part of a camp like Shrewhaven, but have had the chance to hunt out of the boxcar.  That's a great time!!  

Thanks again for all the pics and stories, and poems!!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 26, 2011, 05:20:00 PM
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Frenchymanny on October 26, 2011, 05:43:00 PM
Thank you for sharing, that brightens my evening at work!

    :thumbsup:      :campfire:      :archer:      

F-Manny
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: wapiti792 on October 26, 2011, 09:20:00 PM
Man I enjoy this thread! There's some killers in that bunch   :campfire:  

After spending an evening with Tim and Eric at KZoo over cocktails and huntin' stories last year, and after meeting Mr LaClair, I can say for sure that Shrewhaven would be one awesome camp to be a part of. Thanks for taking us along again gents     :archer2:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: njloco on October 26, 2011, 10:32:00 PM
This is my first time reading this and hopefully not the last.

Ron, I love the green Hudson Bay blanket coat, very nostalgic !
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: StickBowManMI on October 26, 2011, 11:20:00 PM
Thanks for sharing Ron! I look forward to reading the news each year about Shrewhaven. The pictures are worth a thousand words. The camp reminds me of one that friends and I shared in Island Pond, Vermont. I hunted there for 13years from 1970 to 1983. There is nothing like a hunting camp shared with friends. Hope that everyone continues to enjoy the camp for many years to come.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Easykeeper on October 27, 2011, 08:12:00 AM
Gas light, wood heat, fall, buddies, you guys are living the good life!  Not to mention the fancy biffy.  I can smell the smoke and hear the hissing lamps.  Thanks for sharing and congrats on a great hunt.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ray Lyon on October 27, 2011, 08:32:00 AM
My father in law is a big cribbage player and deer hunter and he always asks why we don't play cards at deer camp.  As you can see from the pictures, we keep busy finding and dragging deer out of the woods, cooking and eating. Then the conversation really gets going and after an hour or two when Tim and Kevin are done talking, the rest of us start in.   ;)    :D  
Therefore, there's just no time for cribbage like Fred Bear and his cronies at the Little Delta camp.  I thought bringing the two young Eric's on board was going to be the "packers" like the Little Delta gang, but Eric Bonnett took to stackin meat this year (3 deer), so that didn't leave him much time for helping us poor old guys!!!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ray Lyon on October 27, 2011, 08:49:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by Killdeer:
Now, about those deer. Their eyes are closed. How did you do that, you shoot them in their sleep? Sew them shut like the seeled eyes of Berkut Golden Eagles? Sew them shut like the headshrinkers of old? My deer hang around wide-eyed, gathering data from the words and workings of their killers, to pass on as spirit-lore to their kin still roaming the hills. Nothing can escape their eternal gazes, and over many years their intelligence-gathering has led to a dire waning of my prowess as a hunter. I will, should I become lucky enough to kill more deer, start blindfolding them after hanging, and only allow pig Latin to be spoken in my camp.

Killdeer     :archer:  
Killy,

I'll let you in on a little secret....it's the pixy dust that Ron sprinkles on all the Shrew bows he sells.  Deer just don't stand a chance and it knocks them out cold.  Get yourself a Super Shrew and your deer will also be knocked out cold (ok, so don't look closely at my individual photo with my first doe).  I do have to admit too that I thought of you when we lit up a Fuente cigar and sipped on some Basil Hayden. That photo you posted on the thread here a year or two ago with the cigar and whiskey is firmly planted in my memory cells and I can't help but smile and think about that.    :D
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: awbowman on October 27, 2011, 09:19:00 AM
Ray, spring for some Crown XR or Crown Reserve instead of the Basil, you'll thank me.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 27, 2011, 09:53:00 AM
Coming up the Armstrong....

"Ahoy the Camp"

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Camp_09%205.JPG)

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Camp_09%206.JPG)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Roger Norris on October 27, 2011, 03:39:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by awbowman:
Ray, spring for some Crown XR or Crown Reserve instead of the Basil, you'll thank me.
Blasphemy
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Jim Brennen on October 27, 2011, 04:00:00 PM
Love your camp Mr LaClair,great stuff. Thanks
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: awbowman on October 27, 2011, 04:12:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Roger Norris:
 
Quote
Originally posted by awbowman:
Ray, spring for some Crown XR or Crown Reserve instead of the Basil, you'll thank me.
Blasphemy [/b]
To each his own I guess.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Cyclic-Rivers on October 27, 2011, 06:45:00 PM
:campfire:     :archer:  

I love this kinda stuff, especially when I am there.  reading this and seeing pictures is a distant second but much enjoyed. Thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Kapellmeister on October 27, 2011, 06:48:00 PM
"It's the stuff that dreams are made of."

   :campfire:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Killdeer on October 27, 2011, 09:11:00 PM
Y'all wouldn't need to spring for a thing. I'll bring my own.
(Might be Coors lite, though.   :D   )

 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/Killdeer/TG%20Uploads/Hunting/dinner1prep2.jpg)

Killdeer
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Warden609 on October 27, 2011, 09:45:00 PM
Great Thread !!!!  :thumbsup:    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ray Lyon on October 28, 2011, 08:58:00 AM
Killy,
 That's a fine looking table you got there.  We do enjoy sampling whiskey. Basil Hayden just happened to be a bourbon that all agreed was smooth and tasty.  I brought a bottle of Jim Beam Black to camp and I believe somehow the cap got left off and the heat of the woodstove evaporated it before two days had gone by.  Roger is partial to Jameson's, but was mostly drinking Guiness draft and Mission Point specialty brew.

  We also didn't mention that Tim Cosgrove brought a couple of samples of his home brewed beer. One was an ale and the other stout. They were excellent!!!!  We told him next year he needs to bring more  :readit:  (so Killy you wouldn't have to bring Coors Light-as a brother in law once said to my mother in law when she asked if he'd like a Coors Light, he responded by saying 'naw, I was really kinda looking forward to having a beer).   So Roger is going to have Shrewhaven Stout t-shirts done up.  You can't get the beer, but you'll be able to get a t-shirt  :p  .

Good luck at your camp Killy.  I hope you have sucesses that make you as happy as we do each year.   :campfire:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Jon Stewart on October 28, 2011, 11:09:00 AM
My dad lived not far from the La Clair camp.  Officer Painter was a good friend of dads and stopped in often to visit.  While bear hunting in the UP Dave pulled in with a rookie officer and asked if we wanted any Michigan Moose meat. a semi struck one by the Brule river and he was on the way to deliver the meet to some needy folks.  Guess he thought dad was needy as he left us a back strap and a front shoulder.

Looks like a great camp and that you all had a good time.  thanks for posting.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Stone Knife on October 28, 2011, 01:35:00 PM
You guy's sure take your share of does, a good management practice. Nice pics.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 28, 2011, 06:07:00 PM
Killy, that's a wonderful picture. It shows that you're a person with good taste.

    (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/Killdeer/TG%20Uploads/Hunting/dinner1prep2.jpg)

There was a time that the boys in camp had a one track mind (see pic of camp liquor cabinet), we've since become a little more diversified....    :D  

Now Just in case some may think we're a bunch of whiskey sots, we only have a drink or two before supper and maybe a nightcap afterward.   :nono:   It's early to bed and early to rise for the serious hunters at camp Shrewhaven..  

    (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Basil_Hayden.jpg)
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Killdeer on October 29, 2011, 02:30:00 PM
I am delayed a day due to weather and Mockingbird's work obligations. I am looking at all those poor dead soldiers in your rack.

Tsk, tsk.
I am packing Coors Light.
Sorry. I am weak.
I DO have some Opus X, though, thanks to Hayslope!!
Killdeer   :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: dave19113 on October 29, 2011, 02:40:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Ron LaClair:
Killy, that's a wonderful picture. It shows that you're a person with good taste.

     (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/Killdeer/TG%20Uploads/Hunting/dinner1prep2.jpg)

There was a time that the boys in camp had a one track mind (see pic of camp liquor cabinet), we've since become a little more diversified....     :D  

Now Just in case some may think we're a bunch of whiskey sots, we only have a drink or two before supper and maybe a nightcap afterward.    :nono:    It's early to bed and early to rise for the serious hunters at camp Shrewhaven..  

     (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Basil_Hayden.jpg)
Doesnt get much better than that...................
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: adkmountainken on October 29, 2011, 02:48:00 PM
just an AWESOME post, love it!
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: habujohn on October 29, 2011, 07:15:00 PM
Great thread Ron with wonderful picutres.  Dan my older brother and I built our Yopper camp in 79.  Last year we added on, creating another bedroom and larger living room space.  I will have to post some pictures from are hunt that starts the 6th of November.
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Gray Buffalo on October 30, 2011, 10:28:00 AM
Nice thread Ron. The pictures tells me, you and your friends have the spirt of the hunt. I too am getting to the age that I hunt only when I feel like it. I can tell you if I will hunt when my feet hit the floor in the morning. I love being in camp with the guys and will be there as long as my body will let me and I'm not to prod to be camp mother and cook.
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ray Lyon on October 31, 2011, 07:31:00 AM
If anybody was interested in buying stock in the distillery that crafts Basil Hayden (they make Bookers and Knob Creek too), do it on the first of October each year.    ;)    :laughing:
Title: Re: Shrewhaven 2011 (pics)
Post by: Ron LaClair on October 31, 2011, 11:46:00 AM
We have some new food plots on the property this year. They will be better next year for the deer, but the turkeys really like the new shoots that are coming up. I put my Hidden Hunter blind along the edge of one of the plots for a couple of days and every day I had turkeys in front of me. After the first time this happened, I tried to get an over the counter fall turkey permit but they were all sold out so I just had to sit and watch the birds..   :archer:  

   (http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Shrewhaven_2011.JPG)