Post by: Bud B. on March 05, 2012, 12:33:00 PM
I know there's a bunch of threads about Ray's but please share anything you would like for a newbie hog hunter.
I so desire to take a hog with the HH or Dave Johnson bow, but I broke out the Fred Bear Grayling Super Grizzly and she's calling hogs. I shot it for only about a dozen arrows this morning and I came close to breaking numerous nocks after a three month absence of shooting her.
The between season Tradgang time....
Oh the wait.... :campfire:
Post by: CJ Pearson on March 05, 2012, 12:46:00 PM
My personal advice is avoid the creek banks if you can, they're slick.
Post by: CJ Pearson on March 05, 2012, 12:47:00 PM
Post by: smokin joe on March 05, 2012, 12:49:00 PM
Hog Heaven is a place with lots of magic. I've been there twice and I'm going back as soon as I can manage it.
Go slow and see much. Make sure you have one of those little puff bottles and check the wind often.
Post by: Bud B. on March 05, 2012, 01:04:00 PM
Post by: CJ Pearson on March 05, 2012, 01:17:00 PM
Post by: modr on March 05, 2012, 01:25:00 PM
Post by: DW Dyer on March 05, 2012, 01:29:00 PM
Dale
Post by: Mike Vines on March 05, 2012, 01:31:00 PM
I have the broadheads all mounted on the arrows in my avatar and just got them KME sharp. They will be powered by my Two Tracks (H)Ambush.
Clothes have all been sprayed with that tic repel stuff, just waiting to do some stalking now. Been practicing by sneekin up on my boys and scaring them. They think it's getting old, but I don't. LOL.
Post by: steadman on March 05, 2012, 01:42:00 PM
Post by: sticksnstones on March 05, 2012, 01:53:00 PM
Also I'd suggest packing a small pair of garden shears in case you need to cut yourself out of a thicket.
Have fun and enjoy the eats!
Thom
Post by: David Mitchell on March 05, 2012, 02:05:00 PM
Post by: Littlejake on March 05, 2012, 02:17:00 PM
And take a flashlight when it gets dark in those swamps it gets DARK!
Post by: rustyspike on March 05, 2012, 03:29:00 PM
Get the couch if they ask..... I am a early riser. Had hole room to my self.
Rich K.
Post by: Mike Vines on March 05, 2012, 04:06:00 PM
Post by: Biggamefish on March 05, 2012, 04:24:00 PM
Post by: Red Beastmaster on March 05, 2012, 04:56:00 PM
I finally saw 6 young ones in the last hour and promptly missed one. Then big mamma stepped out of the canes at 15 yards! Holy Crap she was huge! I quickly nocked another arrow but she led her troupe off into the short pines. My heart is still racing!
We had 1.68" of rain on Saturday! To say things got soggy would be an understatement. I was all the way down by the boat landing when it cut loose. It was a looong walk back in the rain!
This was our 4th trip to Ray's and have already booked our next two hunts. We sure have a blast at Hog Heaven!
Post by: kbetts on March 05, 2012, 04:57:00 PM
Mojo by osmosis.
Post by: Mike Vines on March 05, 2012, 05:06:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 05, 2012, 05:39:00 PM
herndont where are you??
benny's going too.
Three Tarheel Triad boys hittin' SC for hogs.
Mike Vines, a Michiganite (?) makes four...
Who's the fifth?
Post by: PaddyMac on March 05, 2012, 06:42:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 05, 2012, 06:52:00 PM
I've never considered myself an expert hunter (sometimes it's better to be lucky instead of good) but hands down, I'm an eater and I'm looking forward to some of Ray's great southern cooking that I keep hearing about.
2# of beef, 2# of other fixins on the burger, 2# of fries and 3 huge pickles. I had to do it in less than 30 minutes.
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00743.jpg)
17 minutes and 58 seconds later
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00762.jpg)
Post by: lpcjon2 on March 05, 2012, 07:17:00 PM
Can you hunt after a meal like that?
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 05, 2012, 09:16:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 05, 2012, 09:18:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 05, 2012, 09:23:00 PM
Pound cake? 5 minutes tops.
:biglaugh:
Post by: Mike Vines on March 05, 2012, 09:26:00 PM
Post by: Rick Butler on March 05, 2012, 10:18:00 PM
"there's no place like Ray's
"there's no place like Ray's"
...5 more weeks and we'll be on our way.
Post by: BowHunterGA on March 05, 2012, 10:31:00 PM
Wind checker works great. I prefer a wind feather on the end of my bow. Ray stated that in most cases feathers don't work well due to moisture. The weekend I was there this wasn't the case as a front moved in and it was windy the whole weekend. Normally though his point would likely be a valid one, especially in the morning.
Two biggest pieces of advice. Move very slow and glass a LOT!! Personally, I tried to move twice as slow as I felt necessary and glassed every 3 to 4 steps. I saw a lot of hogs that way too. When you spot a sounder of hogs, you can move pretty quickly to close the distance but once you get within 50 yards or so I would slow it down again, wind is most important but they can see. Good news is they keep there heads down alot.
If you hunt any near the river watch the banks and don't get to close. The river undercuts the banks and they can collape on you pretty easily. Did not witness it happen but you could see several locations where the bank had given way.
Lastly, eenjoy the fire and conversations in the evenings. The fire will warm your body, there is a good chance the conversation will warm your soul.
Oh, and if Ray starts telling a story about a little pig that I personally ran into several weeks ago just cry out, "HEARD IT!"
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 05, 2012, 10:35:00 PM
Post by: BowHunterGA on March 05, 2012, 10:36:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Ray Hammond::campfire: :clapper: :biglaugh:
Heard it!!!!!
Post by: T-D on March 06, 2012, 05:25:00 PM
Post by: Rick Butler on March 06, 2012, 05:54:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 06, 2012, 06:22:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 06, 2012, 06:30:00 PM
quote:
Originally posted by Bud B.:
I've thought of a jar of peanut butter.... :biglaugh:
I bet they really love fresh COLD beer and lasagna.
Post by: T-D on March 06, 2012, 06:45:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 06, 2012, 07:34:00 PM
Oh, and bring a few flu-flus. I have a few aerial discs I'm bringing.
Post by: benny on March 06, 2012, 07:35:00 PM
Just a heads up....if you choose Mike as a turkey guide...stay up wind.LOL
Post by: Gil Verwey on March 06, 2012, 07:37:00 PM
Gil
Post by: kbetts on March 06, 2012, 08:25:00 PM
Post by: misfire on March 07, 2012, 07:08:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by kbetts:We'll be there on the 29th as well. Two of us coming from up this way. See you there!
If I'm the only one back for a repeat trip when I go on the 29th...
Post by: kbetts on March 07, 2012, 08:18:00 AM
You'll be lucky enough to try some family recipe home-made scrapple. Can't imagine anything would be better before a hog hunt than a hot scrapple sandwich!
Post by: calgarychef on March 07, 2012, 09:26:00 AM
Post by: kbetts on March 07, 2012, 09:29:00 AM
Post by: Red Beastmaster on March 07, 2012, 10:23:00 AM
Post by: kbetts on March 07, 2012, 10:31:00 AM
Post by: BowHunterGA on March 07, 2012, 11:54:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by kbetts:Practically impossible to get lost at Rays. (This coming from someone that can get lost in my own backyard) The layout of the property is actually very easy to navigate. Just take a compass and you will be fine. I had a GPS but never needed it. So long as you can read a compass and plot a course you can find your way back. Worst case at Ray's, head due East and you have to hit the highway, but you will cross roads on the property long before you would get that far. It's easy!
I knew it was a lot but o was way off. I'm from DE, so I get lost on anything over 100. Lol
Post by: PaddyMac on March 07, 2012, 05:19:00 PM
http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=48;t=000908
real good introduction.
But man, that's a drive. :dunno:
Post by: Squirrel Bait on March 07, 2012, 08:00:00 PM
Post by: Red Beastmaster on March 07, 2012, 08:16:00 PM
Squirrel Bait's phone alarm goes off at 4:30AM! Then again at 4:40AM! After he finally shuts it off he falls right back to sleep and begins snoring!
He does this the morning before you have a 12 hour drive home.
Hey Cave Troll, miss us yet?
Dave
Post by: kbetts on March 07, 2012, 08:21:00 PM
Post by: Squirrel Bait on March 07, 2012, 09:04:00 PM
Post by: Plumber on March 07, 2012, 10:08:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 07, 2012, 10:49:00 PM
:archer2:
Post by: Mike Vines on March 08, 2012, 07:52:00 AM
Post by: T-D on March 08, 2012, 09:27:00 AM
Post by: Kip on March 08, 2012, 11:01:00 AM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 08, 2012, 11:43:00 AM
Post by: Joeabowhunter on March 08, 2012, 12:08:00 PM
Can anyone post an address or a link to Google Map the area?
Post by: Bud B. on March 08, 2012, 01:22:00 PM
Try this link
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&source=hp&q=32.866828%2C-81.421051&gbv=2&oq=32.866828%2C-81.421051&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=3&gs_upl=4798l4798l0l6189l1l1l0l0l0l0l922l922l6-1l1l0
Post by: Kip on March 08, 2012, 02:15:00 PM
Post by: Joeabowhunter on March 08, 2012, 02:42:00 PM
Post by: Joeabowhunter on March 08, 2012, 02:43:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 08, 2012, 08:21:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 08, 2012, 09:38:00 PM
SPONSOR
Member # 607
posted 28 May, 2011 09:45 AM
I'm also going to start this hunt on thursday afternoon...arrival at camp in time to roost birds, maybe shoot a pig...and begin turkeys early Friday through Sunday afternoon.
--------------------
PBS Life Member
RMEF Life Member
TBG life Member
TGMM
Posts: 7522 | From: Woodstock, GA | Registered: Apr 2003 | IP: Logged |
Post by: Bud B. on March 08, 2012, 09:49:00 PM
Post by: Larry Surtees on March 08, 2012, 09:53:00 PM
Look forward to seeing and meeting everyone!!!!!
Post by: Mike Vines on March 08, 2012, 09:57:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 08, 2012, 10:01:00 PM
:biglaugh:
Post by: Bud B. on March 08, 2012, 10:03:00 PM
:bigsmyl:
Post by: Mike Vines on March 08, 2012, 10:10:00 PM
I have to hit one too and get another Thermacell and refill. I'm sure we will need it by then. I just looked it up and they are saying 80* for the hunt. We had 65 here yesterday, and today it's 33*. Nothing like Michigan weather to keep us on our toes.
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 09, 2012, 06:24:00 AM
Don't eat supper- we have something going
Don't be late!
Post by: Mike Vines on March 09, 2012, 07:43:00 AM
Post by: sticksnstones on March 09, 2012, 08:07:00 AM
Hope you fellas have a ball and kill some pigs!
Thom
Post by: Red Beastmaster on March 09, 2012, 08:17:00 AM
I would pack one, hopefully you won't need it.
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 09, 2012, 09:01:00 AM
They also have plenty of thermacells, holsters, and refill packs. They close at 6...so just plan on getting there at 5 and you'll be fine.
We've had 5 inches of rain or more in the last week- and its warm...I don't know for sure about teh mosquitoes but I'd be prepared.
Post by: Mike Vines on March 09, 2012, 09:22:00 AM
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 09, 2012, 10:58:00 AM
Post by: Gil Verwey on March 09, 2012, 11:02:00 AM
Ray if you get anybody from the northeast that wants to come down, tell them they can ride with me. I have a sissy Prius I will be bringing down this time, that will cost next to nothing in gas. The commuting expense is on me.
Gil
Post by: benny on March 09, 2012, 03:50:00 PM
Is Woody going to be there for the whole weekend?
Got my self a knapping kit and ready to learn.
Last time I was there I seen a mosquito with two arrows stuck in his side lol, bring a thermacell.
Looking forward to meeting everyone and hope everybody has a safe trip.
Benny
Post by: Mike Vines on March 09, 2012, 03:55:00 PM
Post by: benny on March 09, 2012, 04:00:00 PM
You should be able to fly with just the unit only and by refills in Estill.
Post by: Mike Vines on March 09, 2012, 04:03:00 PM
Post by: benny on March 09, 2012, 05:18:00 PM
I have an extra one you can borrow. Just let me know.
Post by: Dennis Allman on March 09, 2012, 06:23:00 PM
I am bring two thermacell also, we have got you covered. Going to try and arrive in Estill, 2-3pm. You have my cell #? Red Ford F-150, see you there.
Dennis
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 09, 2012, 06:29:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 09, 2012, 06:42:00 PM
No Dennis, I don't have your #, but I will PM you mine. I will be in what ever cheap POS car the rental agency gives me.
Just dipped a couple footed arrows I just built. I'm hoping to get them finished and fletched in time to use them on a hog next weekend. They need to be done by Tuesday evening so theta they can be ready to board the flight.
Post by: T-D on March 09, 2012, 07:26:00 PM
Here Piggy Piggy!
Post by: Bud B. on March 09, 2012, 08:37:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 10, 2012, 10:35:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 10, 2012, 11:56:00 PM
The other one I made just like it, I didn't like the color of the bacote as much as the first, so I put a judo head on it and it's ready fir some S. Carolina stumps. I need to abuse it to see how my glue joints hold up.
I also have some 2 dart footed arrows made up with walnut that I turned into Flu Flu's tipped with .38 shell casings that I made for your aerial targets. I'm sure the TSA has some kind of sniffer that will smell the residual gun powder left on the inside of the casing and hold me up while they check my bag thoroughly.
Post by: Bud B. on March 11, 2012, 10:40:00 AM
I'm driving my pickup and pulling a trailer. Gotta think success!! :thumbsup:
Post by: Mike Vines on March 11, 2012, 10:54:00 AM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 12, 2012, 05:44:00 PM
Post by: magnus on March 12, 2012, 06:55:00 PM
Post by: DGF on March 13, 2012, 12:46:00 AM
Dan
Post by: GRINCH on March 13, 2012, 02:43:00 AM
Post by: kbetts on March 13, 2012, 11:02:00 AM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 14, 2012, 06:34:00 AM
Post by: T-D on March 14, 2012, 07:43:00 AM
Post by: Mudd on March 14, 2012, 07:50:00 AM
Have a safe fun time!!
God bless,Mudd
Post by: Guru on March 14, 2012, 07:59:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by Mike Vines:Always exciting heading to the airport for a hunting trip!
Headed to the airport. My adventure has begun.
Good luck fellas!!
Remember...lots of pix!!
Post by: Bud B. on March 14, 2012, 09:10:00 AM
Hopefully the hogs will be moving with the warm up. Skeeters too
!["[dntthnk]"]("graemlins/dntthnk.gif" "\"\"")
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 14, 2012, 12:01:00 PM
I sent some last minute info
Thanks and looking forward to hunting with everyone
Post by: Mike Vines on March 14, 2012, 02:00:00 PM
Oh yeah, here is my new hog machine. One strapped to the top would cover ALL the windows. Hopefully we can get a pic of one up there. I honestly believe this car would fit in the bed of my truck. Don't need power windows, just reach over and roll them up (without even stretching my arm out).
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/92daf0b9.jpg)
Post by: sticksnstones on March 14, 2012, 03:14:00 PM
Post by: snakebit40 on March 14, 2012, 03:17:00 PM
Post by: huskyarcher on March 14, 2012, 04:10:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 14, 2012, 06:18:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 14, 2012, 10:33:00 PM
We worked out the details of THE "Pound Cake" transfer. It will take place in the morning in the parking lot under cover of darkness so that no unsuspecting sweet tooth walking by will get any ideas to break into the Nissan "Lawn" series car the rental place gave me. I swear there is a weed whacker engine under the hood.
The night was filled with longbows/recurves and arrows. I'm simply amazed how the time flew by. And this is just the beginning, there is whole lot more to come...
Post by: awbowman on March 14, 2012, 10:43:00 PM
Post by: Duckbutt on March 15, 2012, 06:09:00 AM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 15, 2012, 07:14:00 AM
This will be my last post till I get home. Reason is because I'm to much of a cheap arse to not have a smart phone or even text service. Maybe next year.
See you all Sunday night or Monday morning.
Post by: T-D on March 15, 2012, 01:13:00 PM
Post by: BowHunterGA on March 15, 2012, 01:28:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Mike Vines:Little does Mike know it would make little difference if he had a smart phone or not. Once you get to Rays all phones turn into paper weights. No cell service without a 15-20 minute drive. Good stuff too as no one can bother you and the hogs don't usually call you. :biglaugh:
5
This will be my last post till I get home. Reason is because I'm to much of a cheap arse to not have a smart phone or even text service. Maybe next year.
See you all Sunday night or Monday morning.
Post by: kbetts on March 15, 2012, 02:48:00 PM
But hun, time goes so fast down there its like I just hung up with you.
Post by: hawkeye n pa on March 15, 2012, 08:00:00 PM
Post by: Terry Green on March 15, 2012, 08:26:00 PM
:biglaugh: :biglaugh: :biglaugh:
Post by: Red Beastmaster on March 15, 2012, 08:53:00 PM
Post by: Dirtybird on March 15, 2012, 09:01:00 PM
Post by: BowHunterGA on March 15, 2012, 09:07:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by kbetts:Mine is actually pretty happy to be rid of me for 3 or 4 days. I'd say the honeymoon is just about over at this point...... :bigsmyl:
Yea, my wife just loves the fact I'm literally unreachable for four days......
Post by: sticksnstones on March 17, 2012, 06:48:00 PM
Thom
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 17, 2012, 10:26:00 PM
Post by: BowHunterGA on March 18, 2012, 09:56:00 AM
Post by: sticksnstones on March 18, 2012, 12:02:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Ray Hammond:That's awesome! I can't wait to read these stories!
Two folks have success stories and someone else has the yips!!!
Thom
Post by: Bud B. on March 18, 2012, 08:38:00 PM
Armadillo - 2
Turkey - 3 (didn't turkey hunt)
Deer - three (one was a large bodied buck with a droopy right ear and nubs where his antlers used to be. We jumped him while he was bedded in rivercan that was in a hardwood stand of old Oaks)
Coyote - 1 (near the Jon boats in the hardwoods)
Buzzards - about 20 on Saturday at about noon eating the hog hit by a speeding car Friday night. WHACK!! Bumper undercarriage remains on the shoulder)
Alligator - 1 (about a five footer near the
statue)
Antler shed - 1
Big coal black boar - 1...ask Todd :biglaugh:
benny and Dennis have some tales....I'll let them jump in....
Still unpacking and drying out.
Post by: sticksnstones on March 18, 2012, 09:17:00 PM
Post by: Rick Butler on March 18, 2012, 09:28:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 18, 2012, 09:56:00 PM
Me- What's there to do in Estill for a few hours till my buddies get into town?
Her- What ch'all doin?
Me- Hog hunting
Her- My husband once fed me hog nuts...
And the trip only got better from there. Tell some more tomorrow.
Oh yeah, got to meet Woody (kinda funny to follow a hog nut story with one that starts with a woody) he is the best flint knapper I have ever seen. He made me a head for an arrow I made up for all the attendees, and a couple others either made their own to mount on their arrow or asked woody for some help. All around great bunch of guys.
Post by: Mudd on March 18, 2012, 10:50:00 PM
God bless,Mudd :archer:
Post by: kbetts on March 19, 2012, 08:54:00 AM
Post by: Bud B. on March 19, 2012, 09:36:00 AM
Here are some.
Buck rub near the turkey foot split.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven012.jpg)
A wallow in a dried up swamp trough. I found this Friday morning. We set up on it Friday evening. That's when the lone black boar came in for a mud bath. Todd has the Paul Harvey on that.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven017.jpg)
Andrew, the property owner, said the place was logged back at the turn of the last century. I would have like to have seen this log. This cypress was about 14 feet wide at the base. Not all of it is in the frame.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven018a.jpg)
A well photographed lady of the swamp.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven020.jpg)
Hog trails viewed from my climber stand.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven034.jpg)
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven035.jpg)
Flowers that scatter the area.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven042.jpg)
Humidity was high in March. Storms passed through. I feel for you guys that hunt in the dead of summer. But Ray says its a good time to hunt.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven045.jpg)
Post by: Bud B. on March 19, 2012, 09:41:00 AM
L-R
Dennis, Ray, Mike (with turkey spur necklace), Larry, Mike, Benny, Todd, Woody.
A few seconds before this shot, Woody was preparing an arrow shaft for a stone head. Every eye was glued to his working hands. I wanted to get that shot but was about 10 seconds too late.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven039.jpg)
Post by: Bud B. on March 19, 2012, 09:48:00 AM
This is Todd.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f94/Equismith/HogHeaven027.jpg)
Post by: benny on March 19, 2012, 09:53:00 AM
First I would like to think Larry Surtees for paying for this hunt and donating it to the St Judes aution. It was an honor to meet and share camp with you sir and also you cook great breakfast. THANK YOU.
Now for this hunt you had three choices.
First-Hog hunt at Hog Heaven
Second-Turkey hunt (should also be called Turkey Heaven)
Third-Flint knapp with Woody Blackwell
I choose to turkey hunt first and try to learn from Woody. Then do a little hog hunting.
Sorry guys, having to use my work computer. Laptop at home not acting right. Bear with me.
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 19, 2012, 09:57:00 AM
Most folks think those burnings mess up the hunting but that photo proves the opposite.
Most of the time critters are as curious as people and want to see 'what's going on'.
I've seen turkeys in a burn while it was going on picking up 'hot' fried grasshoppers and other bugs as well as toasted seeds...when they looked like they'd get their beaks scalded they were so close behind the fire!
I sure enjoyed getting to spend time with everyone and many thanks to Larry and Chris' children for putting this hunt on in memory of their son and father-Chris Surtees, and for the kids of St Judes.
Post by: Mike Vines on March 19, 2012, 10:16:00 AM
We all met up at Wiggins, like was determined but Ray was running late so the land owner picked us all up. Andrew is trully a Southern Gentleman. He is a fine example of what "Southern" folk are, and man can he cook. Probably the best beef stew I have ever had the pleasure of eating.
After we all got aquatinted, it was time for aerials. If any of you have never seen Benny run, try having him throw aerials. That boys flat out knows how to get out of the way. :bigsmyl:
Saturday found me in the swamp. If I was squirrel hunting, I would have had a ball. They were everywhere. I got to see the resident gator in Blue Lake and even got a few pictures of it. No pigs were seen by me on Saturday, but my main reason for going was to not only meet everyone involved, but to actually see a wild pig, and I did just that. I did pull off the best stalk of my life on Todd and Bud though, but I will see if one of them will chime in on the details of that one. I will say that they thought they were in the middle of nowhere and "ain't nobody gonna find us".
Sunday I decided to not hunt, but instead drink coffee and listen to the turkeys gobble all around the property.
I really enjoyed the flint knapping course taught to us by woody but it is alot harder than it looks. Coming in from hunting, I could hear the guys around the firepit chipping away and talking. My only comparison would be to that of women sitting around knitting, just a much cooler aspect of it. After trying my hand at knapping, I respectfully asked Woody if he could make me a broadhead to mount on an arrow. I made up 1 arrow for all the guys in attendance to have as a keepsake and memory of the great times we had. A couple of the guys already have their broadheads mounted on them, maybe they can upload a picture or two of them for the thread.
I'm very greatfull for Larry to get the ball in motion for this hunting trip to start, for he was the beginning of the adventure. Ray and Mike did an outstanding job, and made sure there was never a dull moment while in camp.
Thanks to everyone involved, and last but not least, a huge thank you to Delaney for the absolutely best pound (5#) cake I have had. It topped off a fun filled trip with an awesome group of guys.
Being the only northerner there, I will now read everyone's posts in a whole new accent now. Heck it's even started to rub off on me already.
Anyway, I'm fixin to get back to work, I'll have to wait till my next trip to get something kilt. :biglaugh:
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 19, 2012, 10:22:00 AM
Just thought it would make you feel like you were right back at camp...I know after thirty years I still go through withdrawals when I leave there...it has to be tough on newbies!!! :bigsmyl:
Post by: snakebit40 on March 19, 2012, 11:03:00 AM
Post by: kbetts on March 19, 2012, 11:17:00 AM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 19, 2012, 11:26:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by kbetts:They literally were everywhere. I have shot Fall turkey with a bow I built, but I have always spent my springs fishing the great lakes and neverr got to experience spring tom's gobble in the wild. Since i sold my boat, i can see spring turkey in my future. If I had known you can take up to 5 turkey on a license, I would have bought one myself. I just figured a license was only good for 1 turkey like here in Michigan. It was neat to stalk the edge of the woods and come up on a Tom strutting for a hen.
Just when I was considering passing on turkey hunting, it looks like I'm going to have to dig a little deeper into the kitty...
Post by: Bud B. on March 19, 2012, 11:46:00 AM
But, if you are going down in two weeks and haven't considered turkeys, you may want to. They are plentiful at Hog Heaven.
Post by: sticksnstones on March 19, 2012, 11:57:00 AM
Thom
Post by: Bud B. on March 19, 2012, 12:02:00 PM
I'll be dropping by to say hey benny :)
And before Mike V left we had him saying "y'all" in a convincing way. If we'd have had a few more days with him he'd have a good take on yonder and a few other words of Southern take.
Post by: Mike Vines on March 19, 2012, 12:15:00 PM
The "Swamp" Versa was a pretty unique creature for sure. I never thought I could get it that far back in there. I feel sorry for the guy who had to clean it, and about the chirp, it was so small that when I turned around, my elbow nailed the horn.
I hope to once again share a camp with you guys.
I never found that cypress stump you got a picture of, but now wish I had after seeing your pictures of it. Can't even imagine it's full size before it was cut down 100's of years ago.
I'll try to get my pictures downloaded and on here tonight, but I need to spend some time with my boys first.
Post by: benny on March 19, 2012, 04:57:00 PM
Friday morning Mike M. took me over to the tall pines NW of camp. Not a single bird gobbled. They were gobbling like crazy on the other side of one mile road...go figure.
Friday afternoon I poked around for hogs but no luck.
Friday night Ray told me he knowed were a nice gobbler hung around. A game plan was hatched.
Saturday morning was cool and crisp. We setup in some burnt pines on the edge of a clear cut. We could hear gobblers off in the distance. None would respond to Rays calling. We walked the road beds trying to find a responsive bird.
On the back side of triangle field nest to the swamp, a bird responded back.
We setup right on the edge over looking the swamp. Boy it was so beautiful with tall cyprus trees and tall green plants with yellow flowers.
Ray started calling and the brid would gobble back. The gobble got closer and we could two gobbles. All right this is good I thought. The birds just paced back and fourth...hung up. Ray felt like some hens got to them first. Then silence. Ray told me he was going to walk away and start callng sounded good to me.
Ray called one more time before moving and less than 150 yards out they both gobbled. The hair stood up on the back of my neck. Hearing there gobbles thunder out thru the swamp bottom is a sound I will never forget.
Then thru a opening I see a swelled up blue and white head, then another. Ray here they come left to right. They stop behind some cyprus tress and we coundn't see them. Ray said he could hear one drumming. All I could hear was my heart in my throat.
Customers be right back.
Post by: benny on March 19, 2012, 06:09:00 PM
I ran down and picked him up by his legs and carryed my trophy up to Ray. He hardly twitched.
I layed him down and started to get my tags out and Ray said "He's still alive", I said "Na it's just reflexes". Ray said "His eye just blinked". "WHAT"...I looked down and blink...blink. I told Ray I would brake his neck. Wrong. I had his neck and Ray had his legs. It looked like something off of UFC. Ray told me to use my knife. I thought ok he has sharp spurs and I have a sharp knife...fair fight.
Now this was a shot gun kill. I have permission to post this story and a picture, because it was a St Judes hunt.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/bsteelman70/photobucket-701-1332123020177-1.jpg)
Thanks again for your help Ray. It was a hunt I will never forget.
Post by: BrushWolf on March 19, 2012, 06:43:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 19, 2012, 07:28:00 PM
Post by: benny on March 19, 2012, 09:00:00 PM
Mike made us all a very nice arrow.
Here are a few pics.
Nock
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/bsteelman70/photobucket-5339-1332199159023.jpg)
Water moccasin snake skin
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/bsteelman70/photobucket-685-1332199199388.jpg)
Inscription
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/bsteelman70/photobucket-597-1332199082721.jpg)
All together
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/bsteelman70/photobucket-5321-1332199050273.jpg)
Now the business end. I asked Woody if he would knap me a head and haft it on the end.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/bsteelman70/photobucket-843-1332199124488.jpg)
Thanks Woody for your time and broadhead.
Post by: T-D on March 19, 2012, 09:48:00 PM
The next story to be told tomorrow.... Stay tuned it's about a weedeater and a horn blower!!! :dunno:
Post by: Bud B. on March 20, 2012, 09:14:00 AM
I already want to go back.
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 20, 2012, 10:49:00 AM
Dennis and Larry both have good tales to tell...where are they?
Post by: Bud B. on March 20, 2012, 03:16:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 20, 2012, 09:13:00 PM
Here is my hunting suitcase ready for the unvailing...
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00834.jpg)
With the top down...Awesome way to travel
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00835.jpg)
Anytime there is an AMERICAN FLAG, it is a good photo oportunity...
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00836.jpg)
They sure do grow the moths big down there. This was the "Small" version. There were much bigger ones around at night. The had some really cool looking eyes that looked like they were painted on their wings.
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00837.jpg)
This was the bed the BIG hog was in that busted me at the last moment. Remember (for sizing) my Ambush is 50".
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00843.jpg)
Can you find the resident gator in this picture? It was neat watching him, till I stepped off the trail to get a little closer (as if 50 yards wasn't close enough), and as soon as my foot came off the trail, he must have felt the vibrations, because he turned and looked right at me and sank in the water. Probably the most eerie feeling I have ever had while hunting. I could feel the hair on the back of my neck stand up as soon as I realized, this is reality, NOT TV. He was the true predator in that swamp.
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00857.jpg)
A meal made for 9 Kings...
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00861.jpg)
And last but not least, a very special Thank You to Delaney for making the best Pound Cake hands down I have ever had. It needed nothing on top.
(http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab28/miklvines/DSC00862.jpg)
Post by: Bud B. on March 20, 2012, 09:37:00 PM
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 20, 2012, 10:09:00 PM
I don't know what's happened to Dennis but here's a pic of the man who made the weekend happen- Larry and his sidekick Koa- a kindred spirit if I ever had one
We both love bacon!!!!!!! Koa loves it so much he'd dance for it- now that's a smart puppy!
Post by: Dennis Allman on March 20, 2012, 10:46:00 PM
I only have a few minutes tonight, I have had two days of therapy on my knees and legs and it is not going well and the report is not what I wanted to hear.
What a great hunt, I am so glad I was able to get in on the hunt. Thanks Larry, and thanks to Andrew, Ray and Mike for hauling me around. It was great meeting the other NC guys, and I wish I had half the engery and talent of Mike Vines. Thanks for the arrow Mike.
I will be back down March 30,31 and April 1; remember, I have a $250.00 pair of glassess out on the Hwy-gate road, somewhere.
Putting turkey parts in the crockpot, for wild-turkey salad tomorrow. I will do my best, to get on tomorrow and tell the turkey hunt story.
Dennis
Post by: Bud B. on March 21, 2012, 06:39:00 AM
Have Ray or Mike drive you to the boat ramp and if they'll drive you in about 100 yards off to the left just in the swamp was a gobbler Sunday morning. Go get'im for me and Todd. If you sit on the high bank in your blind I think you can get him into your sweetspot range of your Winny with a decoy placed just below you. :thumbsup:
Post by: Steve O on March 21, 2012, 07:00:00 AM
Did you have to put all the seat of the "hog machine" down to fit your suitcase in?
Post by: Mike Vines on March 21, 2012, 09:06:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by Steve O:Energizer bunny??? Yes I have a problem of never giving up or stopping. Doctor wanted to put me on Ritlin last month just so he could hold a conversation with me. LOL
Mike, aka Energizer bunny...
Did you have to put all the seat of the "hog machine" down to fit your suitcase in?
The most accurate description I could give of the car would be to call it a coffin on wheels. I would dread the day I ever got in a wreck with that thing. I went cheap, and realized its not worth my life. Next time I'll spend the extra $5 a day to get atleast a full sized car.
Post by: Izzy on March 21, 2012, 10:09:00 AM
Post by: Dennis Allman on March 21, 2012, 05:33:00 PM
I have been turkey hunting for many years, and have taken quite a few birds. I consider myself a fair to good turkey hunter, not a great turkey hunter. Loss of hearing, bad knees and legs do not help.
Now, Ray called me on Wed. afternoon, he was not going to be able to get to camp, until Fri. afternoon. His words, "Pencil and paper, write this down." He gave me instructions of where to park, how far to walk up the road, how far into the hardwoods to set up, what calls to use and where the bird would come from. And the second option of where the bird would come from, "from across the highway, he will walk across, not fly in."
Friday morning found me at the parking area at first light, Mike V. had rode with me, he took off down the road going after hogs. I decided to change the script of this turkey hunt, that Ray had written. Yiks!!!
Got to go, will finish later tonight or Thur. morning.
Dennis
Post by: misfire on March 22, 2012, 06:51:00 AM
OhOh...Yessir...Been there. Trying to make up a story as to why the hunt didn't go right, without looking guilty, even though you followed the plan word for word.
Lookin forward to the rest of the story... :campfire:
Post by: Dennis Allman on March 22, 2012, 11:21:00 AM
I decided to wait in the area of the truck until I heard a bird gobble; well 30 minutes after first light, no gobble. I had heard some hens down the road Mike went down, and hens in the area Ray had told me to set up in. Not hearing any gobbling, I decided I should get back into Ray's script. Up the highway 200 yds, into the hardwoods, and set up with my back to the highway, two soft yelps, purr, scratch in the leaves and wait.
After about an hour, my knee are killing me, and I realize that I have no cover behind me and that there is 50% chance the bird will come from that direction. Although I did not want to move after being set-up, I decided that I had to be aggresive and move into a more comfortable position with some cover.
In front of me 15/20 yds is a huge tree, wide enough to hide me from the back, with dry brush and green bushes on each side. I gather my gear and quickly make the move, it is a perfect blind.
Post by: Dennis Allman on March 22, 2012, 12:14:00 PM
I settled into the new position, I do not remember calling, just scrathing in the leaves as I settled in the new position. Some time later, I heard 'not a gobble', but what I thought was a gobbler yelp across the highway. I picked up my slate call gave two soft yelps, two purrs, laid the call down, scrathed in the leaves, laid my hands on my weapon. A sound off to my left, a slight move of the head and a roll of the eyes----there is gobbler standing 12 yds off my left shoulder. It happened FAST!!
Although, I did not see it, the bird had to have ran in, to have gotten there that fast. He is now on alert, probably that slight move of the head; turns left and is leaving, I pick him up, blot out his head and he is down at about 42/43 yds. A good, what we decided, 3 year old bird, 21/22#, 10" beard and good hooks.
Moral of the story: Listen to Ray! Ray knows his property and Ray knows his birds. Although I left Ray script, I managed to get back on track and into my turkey hunting mode, and with some luck----took a nice bird. Thanks Ray and Mike.
Now, does Ray have turkeys? Yes. Can you take a turkey at Ray's? Maybe/yes. If you have turkey hunting experience and have taken some birds, you can probably do it on your own; but, listen to Ray advice on where to go, how to set-up and how to call. If you want to learn turkey hunting, con, beg, plead, Ray or Mike to take you out. You will have a great time and learning experience.
The rest of the hunt was great also, did a little hog hunting Sat. evening, no sighting, but I did manage to lose a #250/300.00 pair of glassess. I called in a hen Sat. morning, but she did not bring a gobble with her. Mike (SB) helped me get a BD blind up Sat. afternoon, saw two hens that evening and got caught in a bad thunderstorm.
Great to meet everyone; Thanks Larry, Ray and Mike (SB). Great food. I will be back down for the hunt March 30, 31, April 1; will be using the bow more for the turkey hunt and trying to get into the hogs.
Good Hunting to All, Dennis
Post by: kbetts on March 22, 2012, 12:46:00 PM
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 22, 2012, 02:11:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 22, 2012, 04:06:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 22, 2012, 05:20:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Ray Hammond::thumbsup:
(http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e322/rayhammond123/837bce79.jpg)
Post by: benny on March 22, 2012, 10:16:00 PM
Post by: 2fletch on March 23, 2012, 09:05:00 AM
Post by: Apex Predator on March 23, 2012, 10:05:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by Mike Vines:Must be one of those "Straight" profile models. :)
QuoteOriginally posted by Ray Hammond::thumbsup: [/b]
(http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e322/rayhammond123/837bce79.jpg)
Post by: misfire on March 27, 2012, 07:37:00 AM
We leave early tomorrow night for our 17 hour ride to Ray's...YAHOO!
Post by: Jeff D. Holchin on March 27, 2012, 12:13:00 PM
Post by: kbetts on March 27, 2012, 01:33:00 PM
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 28, 2012, 05:23:00 AM
Post by: Rod Witkos on March 28, 2012, 09:01:00 PM
Post by: Mike Vines on March 28, 2012, 09:54:00 PM
Post by: kbetts on March 29, 2012, 11:50:00 AM
Post by: wapiti792 on March 29, 2012, 11:52:00 AM
Post by: Bud B. on March 29, 2012, 10:41:00 PM
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 31, 2012, 08:20:00 AM
Turkey hunters run over by coyotes and two delewarians saw and stalked 25 hogs Friday. Another hunter shoots at a nice hog but got a deflection- I am expecting some dead stuff this weekend!
More later
Post by: Don Batten on March 31, 2012, 03:33:00 PM
Post by: Bud B. on March 31, 2012, 07:12:00 PM
Post by: Ray Hammond on March 31, 2012, 07:39:00 PM
Post by: kbetts on April 01, 2012, 05:29:00 PM
But yes, I did not take one shot. I did, however, have pigs at 12 yards, 15 yards, and 20 feet. The one laying down at 20 feet, facing me was awfully tempting. Too bad most of his body was in a hole. Just putting the stalk on the group with Phil was worth the trip. When all ten of them busted out of there, you couldn't have beat the smiles off our faces.
Once again it was an absolute blast. I hunted hard and left it all in the woods. More later.......
Post by: Ray Hammond on April 01, 2012, 06:01:00 PM
Cory and mike got into about 20 this morning but no shots either- some at five and six yards!!!
Post by: kbetts on April 01, 2012, 06:31:00 PM
Good guys for sure. Amazing how you can be so close and not get a shot. That's what I love about it.....opportunity is there.
Post by: Squirrel Bait on April 01, 2012, 07:40:00 PM
Post by: Rod Witkos on April 01, 2012, 08:07:00 PM
Amateurs? Misfire says we're only in WV, we can turn around and come thump ya. ;-)
Post by: Mike Vines on April 01, 2012, 09:33:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Squirrel Bait::thumbsup:
I HATE TURKEYS !
Post by: kbetts on April 01, 2012, 09:40:00 PM
Post by: Ray Hammond on April 02, 2012, 10:18:00 AM
There were absolutely tons of hogs spotted but no one was able to connect successfuly...brush, trees, wrong angle, just a host of stuff.
It's turkey season, so there's no corn spread out- this is all wild and wooly spot and stalk...
I actually saw the biggest live pig I've ever seen on the place in over 30 years- and he's still alive! What a brute.
Everything else I ran into had little squeakers with them...so we're going to have some nice herd increases going forward the next 12 months!!!
The turkeys are going wild!!
Post by: Ray Hammond on April 02, 2012, 10:19:00 AM
Post by: Dennis Allman on April 02, 2012, 11:03:00 AM
I have not seen a hog/pig yet, I am not really sure there is any there--ha ha. That will change in the future, will have to return some time when turkey season is not open.
Enjoyed meeting you guys from MA, DE, OH; hope everyone has made it home safe.
Ray, Mike--Thanks for a Great Hunt.
Dennis
Post by: kbetts on April 02, 2012, 11:05:00 AM
Post by: SELFBOW19953 on April 02, 2012, 02:26:00 PM
The 10 that Kyle and I got into was a wet sow and her little ones, (had one tag along) so not really a shot opportunity. Great fun was had by all (even Mike, though he won't admit it, turkey's got his goat). Gorgeous scenery, lots of wildlife. To quote that famous actor turned governor, "I'll be bahk!!"
Post by: BrushWolf on April 02, 2012, 04:25:00 PM
Post by: Squirrel Bait on April 02, 2012, 08:41:00 PM
Post by: kbetts on April 03, 2012, 10:58:00 AM
Morning #1 I saw three large pigs and about six to eight little ones that crossed a road about 100 yards ahead of me. They were the only pigs I saw that morning, but I did hear at least three gobblers and one 'yote.
After a snack and a water refill I bumped two different ones from their beds. Both resulted in very close encounters but no shots. They were bedded up in rivercane thickets inside the recent burn.
(http://i796.photobucket.com/albums/yy241/kbetts_01/CIMG0520.jpg)
Problem was, you needed to find a hole through this stuff.
(http://i796.photobucket.com/albums/yy241/kbetts_01/CIMG0536.jpg)
A little later on, when Phil and I found each other, we happened upon the larger group. I could only see two of the ten or so pigs and the one I was looking at closely must have been the tag along Phil mentioned earlier. Once again, no shot but we did find some good sign.
(http://i796.photobucket.com/albums/yy241/kbetts_01/CIMG0529.jpg)
(http://i796.photobucket.com/albums/yy241/kbetts_01/CIMG0524.jpg)
Day #2 I saw no pigs but took some pics and enjoyed the scenery.
(http://i796.photobucket.com/albums/yy241/kbetts_01/CIMG0534.jpg)
A highlite was finding this shed that I signed and left at camp.
(http://i796.photobucket.com/albums/yy241/kbetts_01/CIMG0532.jpg)
Sunday I didn't hunt but about two hours. I wore myself out on Saturday. Having all your senses on edge from dawn till dusk is tiring. It was a pleasure meeting all the guys (even Mike) and I can't wait to go back. The fact that I'm planning on making a third trip should say something about the place. Worth every second.....
Post by: Guru on April 03, 2012, 11:23:00 AM
nice pix :thumbsup:
Post by: Rick Butler on April 03, 2012, 01:10:00 PM