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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Walt Francis on September 22, 2012, 02:49:00 AM
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Pigger went North & she took me with her….but I´m sure it was only for transportation.
A few pictures to get it started:
On the way in:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000631_zpsc4128c0a.jpg)
Dave at the front entrance to our home for the next eleven days:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000652_zpsde22f3dc.jpg)
Dave glassing the first evening above the camp:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000889_zps995994c2.jpg)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000888_zps6464739d.jpg)
We are traveling home tomorrow and will expand, embellish, and fill in details during layovers and then on Sunday (if I do not go elk hunting).
An enticer:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000881_zps8b446e24.jpg)
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Good luck and enjoyed the scenery. Hope to see more.
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Looks like a broken shaft there, Walt. Wonder where the other half is...?
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:campfire:
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:campfire: :coffee: :goldtooth: cmon Walt you can elk hunt any old time
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:campfire: Can't wait to "see" the rest of the story!
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Geat Pictures Thanks.
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Originally posted by Hopewell Tom:
Looks like a broken shaft there, Walt. Wonder where the other half is...?
Hopefully it's bloody...
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Best of luck :archer:
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Good luck elk hunting. I look forward to your stories
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Can't wait Walt. I know the results and have been waiting for pics! The link you emailed to me didn't get anywhere....? It's probably me... :banghead:
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Nah it didn't work for me either Mark, waiting on the edge of my chair... ;)
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We barely made our connection in Seattle, so there isn't time to continue now. It wi ll be tomorrow before I am able to copy the picture links and update the adventure.
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I like where this is going... :thumbsup: :campfire: :coffee:
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:coffee: :coffee: :coffee:
3 cups in to this and waiting ?
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Okay, I'm back. Sorry it took so long getting back on but for some reason the wife thought we needed to go out for breakfast and I should spend some time with her after being gone for over two weeks. :dunno:
Anyway form the beginning:
This hunt was a direct result of last year’s moose hunting thread by Kevin Dill & Bryan Burkheart on the PBS site. Their excitement and enthusiasm rekindled a desire in me that had lain dormant since my last moose hunt 12 years before with brother Bob, Mark Baker, and Dale Teachout. On that trip Mark Baker took a moose close to 60” with his selfbow “Bullwinkle”. Many of you may have read about the trip in his first article for TBM so I will not go into the details. Suffice to say, I turned down several opportunities and came home empty handed. With the fire re-kindled, initial planning and research started last summer. Originally the plan was to go solo but when one of my hunting partners, Dave Johnson, indicated his interest in hunting moose the hunt was expanded to include him. After a lot of research and inquiry with the AK F&G and friends (mostly by Dave) a flight service was selected, unfortunately they were fully booked; we were placed on the waiting list. After waiting three months, just prior to the PBS Banquet, somebody canceled and the hunt is on notice was received and the dates finalized. I can't emphasize enough the need to start early with the planning. We started looking to book the flight in November, by that time most reputable flight services were already booked for the next year. We were lucky to moose hunt this year. Book now if you want to hunt moose next year, you are already late. Regarding where we hunted, we have sworn not to reveal anything other than it was in the interior of Alaska, a large area.
The day of the flight we met with the pilot, were transferred to a remote air strip via truck, and then flown into our remote camp from there. It never ceases to amaze me where a Super Cub is able to fly and land, they are one amazing plane. I would like to get one and learn to fly but am sure I'd kill myself having too much fun.
Coming in for the landing:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/table024_zpsda21e07c.jpg)
Dave and me in front of the plane just before it left:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/025modified_zps34ddefd5.jpg)
After transporting both of us in and setting camp it was nearly dark, but there was enough time to glass the surrounding area but no moose were seen.
We lived and slept in the 6 man Kifaru and stored gear in the done style 3 man tent. Next time we will leave the dome tent at home and use a tarp to cover any excess gear. The Kifaru was....well...nice. However, I highly recommend getting the 8 man version so you can stand up and store/keep some extra gear in the tent. The stove was great and a definite must. Also, get the liner for the Kifaru, moisture build up was a constant issue, even with the stove.
Other camping equipment used was a Primus backpacker and Jet boil stoves (both worked well), Tyvek was used for ground cloths under/over the sleeping bags. Without the tent liner these were essential to keep our sleeping bag dry if they touched the tent walls.
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On with the hunt.
The second day, first hunt day, was scheduled for exploring the area within packable distance of the airstrip, initially set at two miles. After traversing the terrain in all directions that distance was reduced to little over a mile. I had forgotten how tough traveling the tundra could be. A side note, we were both in good shape, having packed 70-80# loads up and down the local M in Bozeman several times each week. A couple of viable glassing and calling points were determined and tried before the end of hunt day one, without any success.
During our exploring a likely tree was found and a birch bark call made for Dave.
Scraping the bark:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/table037_zpsd6e5b4ee.jpg)
Dave soaking the bark to shape it:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/table043_zps7e82bd2b.jpg)
The birch bark call from my previous trip had been forgotten at home, my intent was to use my hands and nothing else. However, during our hiking we found an old rotted out birch tree with the bark intact, a few minutes of removing rotted wood and one natural birch bark moose call was born. A delicate call because of the thin bark, but it had a good tone. Back at camp that night while eating dinner, we decided to split up the next day and double our chances of locating some moose. Dave had the option of where he wanted to go with me heading the opposite direction; the following day would be my choice. He choose to head down the valley with me going up.
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The second hunt day was an early start. Before eating breakfast, or drinking my mandatory morning coffee Pigger was strung and exercised before leaving camp at first light,. Enough light for good footing but not light enough to see across the valley. The plan was to move slowly up the valley calling every quarter mile then waiting for 20-30 minutes for any type of response. Breakfast and coffee would be prepared when my calling point for the day, a mile and a quarter from camp was reached. There was a heavy frost, the air crisp, clear, much like hunting the elk back home in Montana. The solitude, being alone, knowing there wouldn't be another hunter around the next bend, that as much as anything, is what had drawn me back to Alaska. This type of solitude is no longer available back home. Fifty yards from camp, while crossing a small side creek, a sudden explosion three feet to my left. The heart jumps, I instinctively reach for the .44 at my side, all in the split second before realizing it is only a grouse. Getting the heart rate back under control my course angles up and along the side of the hill for another four hundred yards. The intent is to keep my scent out of the creek bottom leaving it for a moose travel corridor, use the height of the hill so my calls carry farther, and increase my ability to spot and ambush any traveling bull.
At the first calling point the natural birch bark call is raised and a short cow moose call made. No response. After five minutes, another call. Again no response. Twenty minutes later the toes are getting cold, time to move on. The same calling sequence is repeated another quarter mile farther, the results are unchanged. Several more times the natural call is utilized until my destination is reached a couple of hours into the hunt, a little before 9:00.
The predetermined calling point is a rock out cropping that creates on one side a natural funnel, narrowing the valley to several hundred yards and overlooking the creek fifty yards below and distant. On the other side it creates a saddle between it and mountain that is a natural crossing around seventy five yards wide and twenty yards lower then my current position.
A view of the point from the creek later that week:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000739_zpsc5e1930d.jpg)
Upon arriving at the point my pack is shed, Pigger is unstrung, extra clothing/gear put on, a couple of quick cow calls made. It is time to settle in, get comfortable, and prepare for a day of calling...and waiting. The clock is taken out and set on a rock, the stove is removed from its pocket, the canister attached, then lit, the water is heating, alright....coffee in a couple of minutes.
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Hold it, what is that sound mixed in with the flame? The burner is turned off and the hearing slowly becomes re-attuned to the wilderness. There it is again, a faint glugh, then another, and another.....constantly.... every four or five seconds. Finally, the direction of the sound is determined; it is coming from the ridge across the valley. Yes, it is moving down the ridge. If he follows the ridge he will reach the creek about 3/8 of a mile upstream and downwind from my location; not ideal. Now the antlers can be seen moving through the birch trees, four hundred yards up the ridge from the creek. A long, soft, and hopefully enticing, moan is sent through the call. He stops and looks my direction. Another call is made. A turn of 90 degrees and he is headed my direction.
The sound was coming from somewhere near the top of this ridge (Red X). He turned and started coming towards me at the Blue X, nearly 3/8 of a mile away. He traveled the distance down the ridge in about two minutes.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/045modified_zps82d23b22.jpg)
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Keep it coming Walt. Great pics and story :thumbsup:
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My silent thoughts are: Holy Crumba, it is actually coming together. Pigger is strung, options analyzed. Okay Walt, where is your best chance to get around to the side and get the wind in your favor? Move quickly, get into position, he is coming fast, already covering half the distance. A quick dash down the ridge directly towards the bull, if he stays to the creek side the wind is good, in my favor. If he heads up the side drainage there are two options, either try to stay ahead (probably impossible) or slip on the creek side of the ridge hoping it directs my scent behind him. Then come in behind him after he passes my scent stream. A few seconds later the glugh is heading towards the side drainage....I slip down to the creek side and run up stream, hoping for the best. Fifty yards later I cross back over the ridge and listen. Nothing. Thirty seconds later still nothing. A low moan is released through cupped hands, an immediate glugh responds from seventy yards up the drainage. He is directly side wind, it worked, Game On!
The glugh's are constant again, but not moving. Walt, play it right, make him come to you, sneaking him won't work. A soft moan followed by two soft glugh's. The glugh's quicken but do not sound any closer. Two minutes later another moan and several glugh's, no response. He has gone quiet. Wait another couple of minutes and try again. Nothing. A downed three inch by six foot log spruce tree is grabbed then raked and beaten on a twenty foot birch tree. An immediate response, the top of a birch tree starts swaying side to side fifty yards away and the antlers can be heard breaking the limbs. Back away ten yards, a moan, and several low glugh's. Make him think the bull is moving the cow away.
Crumb!!! The wind has shifted; it is now coming off the back of my neck. A Quick dash downhill hoping he doesn't catch my scent. Everything goes silent. A couple of moans....Nothing. A couple more cow moans, still nothing. Then several hundred yards up the drainage a faint glugh. He caught my scent, take it easy, don’t chase him out of the drainage, we might be able to work him in a few days. Back out and let him wonder if he really smelled what he thought. Make him second guess himself.
Next, the dejected walk back up to the point. At least I can get some coffee and oatmeal; Small consolation.
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Getting close on the second day :thumbsup:
:archer2:
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Great story so far Walt.
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What an awesome story, keep it coming Walt ;) :campfire: :campfire:
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:campfire:
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Back at the point, a couple of soft moans using the call. A faint glugh comes from up the side valley. It is 9:22; the entire encounter lasted about 20 minutes. Start the stove, the water is warming, once again.
Now starts what is for me called the Lessons Learned Process, or better known by most, the second guessing. How could the encounter been played different by me? The beginning, especially the wind, is reviewed, can't see any better way than how it worked out. It was fortunate the encounter wasn't stopped at that point
another, not quite so faint, glugh from up the side valley. Let’s play this guy the same as you would a bull elk, let him know, that you know he is there, but you got the woman. Act as if you don't care, as long as he stays away. A couple of long soft moans followed by four or five glugh's spaced five seconds apart.
The water is boiling, turn off the stove and pour the water into the waiting cup with the tea type coffee bags. These bags are a great improvement over the old instant coffee; tastes much better. Whoever came up with the idea should get the food version of the Nobel Prize. Swirl the bags, it smells good.
Glugh...glugh....glugh... That is louder, he is coming back in, probably a hundred yards out now. He is getting close to the saddle.
Quickly the lid is put on the coffee cup then place an extra cap over it to keep it warm. Grab Pigger and quickly move down wind and downhill about thirty yards.
Glugh....glugh....glugh....he is on the far edge of the saddle now.
A soft moan and three glugh's, then shift position twenty yards side hill, towards the side valley, setting up between two groups of birch trees.
Glugh....glugh...glugh... Thirty yards out his antlers are seen moving from right to left above the trees headed along the saddle towards the point.
He enters my shooting lane at thirty yards, too far for me and Pigger, we need him closer. The arrow has been knocked sometime during my movement, cannot remember when though. Pigger is raised, tension applied to the string, the bull enters the shooting lane. A single low glugh is made by me.
Glugh...glugh...glugh... He makes a hard left turn, heading directly towards me. The eyes have taken on the glazed-over look, the body, head, and antlers sway side to side in unison with each step.
CRUMB! What a stupid mistake! You idiot! Placing yourself in the only opening between the bull and the make-believe bull. Nothing but a frontal shot....you are screwed.
Glugh...glugh...glugh... Twenty yards....fifteen yards.
Hold your ground, do not move until he is within two maybe three yards....make him turn.
Glugh...glugh...glugh...twelve yards...glugh...ten yards...glugh...he veers to his left, my right, between an opening in the trees.
Whew! CRUMB, have to switch body positions. Time the movement of the shift with the swaying of his head. The front right leg moves forward, the head sways left, the feet, body, and bow turn forty five degrees to the right. He is at eight yards quartered towards me. Be patient...
Glugh...glugh...he takes another step with the right leg, sways the head left, the feet, body, and bow turn another forty five degrees.
Glugh...glugh...glugh...he is at six yards, still quartered to me and a tree between us. Pick a spot! A hair is picked four inches behind the crease, mid body. At four yards he is broadside....An arrow appears, and then enters the body half an inch from the intended hair. It looks slightly angled back, penetration is good, about three inches from the fletching; twenty inches total. Probably hit an off side rib.
All heck breaks loose as the bull veers left and is at a full run downhill. Several quick cow moans are made and the sound of his footsteps stop. A couple more soft cow calls then silence for the next minute. Suddenly there is the sound of trees and limbs breaking, a loud thud accompanied with a grunting moan, then all its quiet. He is down, give him half an hour just in case. Though the arrow entered near its mark, its angle of was slightly askew, angling back 5 degrees. He was too close, four yards is not enough distance for the arrow to have fully recovered from the archers paradox after wrapping around the selfbow without a window.
Wonder if the coffee is still warm? There might be time for some oatmeal too. Forty yards later, back at the point, the clock says 9:32. The coffee is warm and the bags had enough time to saturate the water, it is still hot, it is good....very good. Life is good for another thirty minutes, and then the work begins.
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Walt you know how to tell a story! Well done and congrats!
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Wow, what an experience! I would like to thank Walt for making me feel like I was in the bush getting ready for the shot of a lifetime at a bull moose at a scant FOUR YARDS! Thanks Walt and can't wait for some more pics.
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Awesome story, thanks for sharing!
More pics to come ....... I hope
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Excellent!
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Wow I pictured the whole hunt happening like I was there!!! :notworthy: :notworthy:
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Coffee and oatmeal done, the radio is turned on a t 9:55 for my even hour check-in with Dave (At 10-12-2….we turn on our radio and verify the other person is safe and if a critter is down help with the meat can start.). At 10:00 Dave calls and won’t believe me when told there is a bull down and the packing will start soon. Anticipation is finally taking over and I set out after the bull. Twenty yards down the hill from where the shot was taken the feathered half of a broken arrow is found. Forty yards past that, this:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/table052_zpsa7f3499e.jpg)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000729_zpsfd60cb54.jpg)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/table071_zps07d98f2c.jpg)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000692_zpsbb1defed.jpg)
After two days of packing meat, the final load:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/table115_zps49b6cdfa.jpg)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/Slivershooter/AK%20Moose%20Hunt/P1000809_zps24408b81.jpg)
With nearly a mile and one half each way the next two days is a test of stamina for both Dave and me. It makes one appreciate a good hunting partner. THANKS DAVE!
Equipment used:
Pigger, my 57# Osage selfbow. She has taken me on numerous hunts and always came through.
Seal skin rest from Vermonster 13
Bighorn tip overlays from Doug Campbell or Mark Baker (can't remember which one gave me the pieces used on this bow.)
Bison leather handle wrap.
Fastflight string
Bison Sinew insurance wrap. A week before leaving i noticed a deep dent on the back of the bow and though I didn't believe it would be an issue it got some wrapping for peace of mind.
Surewood arrows made by Rob DiStefano for St. Jude’s two auctions back. They have an internal metal footing up front.
145 grain Eclipse broadhead, with the usual bleeder blade left out for better penetration. These broadheads always perform flawlessly, with great results, and have become my go to heads the past several years.
Total weight of the arrows with broadhead is 625 grains.
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Man, what a story! Well told, Walt! COngratulations on a fine animal!
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Great moose, pics and story tellin Walt!! :clapper: :clapper:
Sure would like to have one of those coffee bags with ya!!
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Wow...Wow...Wow!!!!!
Amazing bull Walt and what a heart pounding story!
Well done sir!
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That was GREAT!!! Congrats!!! Thanks for sharing. :clapper: :clapper: :clapper:
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:notworthy: :clapper:
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You lived the dream Walt - what an incredible story!! Outstanding job all the way around, and congratulations on a spectacular animal!!
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WOW!!!!!!
Congrats first of all......simply some of the best story telling I've read in a long time. Great pics to accompany a great story.
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You done good buddy, Congratulations! Can't wait to see them horns in person.
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Thanks for taking us along!
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Wow, really enjoyed the story. Congrats on a great bull and thanks for sharing.
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Wow, really enjoyed the story. Congrats on a great bull and thanks for sharing.
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Walt all I can say is you are the man,thanks for taking us along. :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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:clapper: :clapper: :clapper:
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WOW.....What a great story!! Great storyteller as well. I can't even imagine being 4 yards from that animal. I would have been shaking like a leaf! What a great experience. Thank you for passing it on.
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Selfbow and wood arrows, Alaska, and a big bull moose...love it! Great story. So at 4 yds were you worried about the bull hearing your heart beat? haha Thanks.
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Well told, Walt....again! Great pics too. Like Doug, I can't wait to see them antlers in person. Congrats again.
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Nice bull and great story telling. I like how he has points all around the top of his palms. Congrats !
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:jumper: :jumper: Master story telling Walt, congrats on a great animal. I'll have to try those coffee bags !
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what a story i'm going to pass a good day thinking about all your adventure congrats and thank to share !
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one question please tell us more about your camping equipement ?
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Fantastic Alaskan adventure! Walt, you paint beautiful pictures with words and what a great bull to take with a self bow. Congrats. :clapper: :clapper:
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Dang that was a great movie. Way way cool. :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :notworthy: :notworthy:
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"Wonder if the coffee is still hot?"!!
Well, if you're going to wait, might as well finish breakfast!
So that's where the other part of that arrow went. Great story and animal. What a trip!
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Been about 12 years since my last moose hunt myself. This may be the fresh wind to reignite that spark! Awesome storytelling Walt and great bull.
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Walt, I'm done with my 'lifetime moose hunt'. You just took me on one. Excellent job. Thanks for sharing.
Shick
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Beautiful bull buddy!! Thanks for the tale. It was great. :campfire: :archer:
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Awesome experience,congrats!
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Great Job Walt!, Awesome story. I love the fact that you used your selfbow. So were ya'll hunting without a guide? For some reason I thought that as nonresidents you had to have a guide in Alaska...
Rick
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Loved reading it just as much the second time through.
Congrats again Walt!
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What a great hunt!!The country really looks different than the open tundra pics Iam used to seeing. Well done, Walt.
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Thank you !!! Taking me a long with you !!!
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Thanks for a great story and congrats with a great hunt!
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Walt, thanks for the pics and story. That has been my dream hunt for as long as I can remember. I may never get to realize that dream, but at least I can come back and share yours.
Chris
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Walt...no one has said it yet so I will: "You done good. You done REAL good!"
You told a great story sir. I can't imagine the pack out!!!! Way to go. Best story ever!
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Awesome story, great read. Congrats and thanks for taking the time to take us with you. Well done. Jeff
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:thumbsup: :thumbsup: Well done and well told. Congrats.
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Congratulations Walt.Great bull and well earned.I really enjoyed the story.
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Well, you're obviously not just a good man with numbers and tally's for St. Jude!
That was a lesson in hunting if ever I read one!
As everyone has shared, good tale, great pics and super ending!
And it didn't take you 2 weeks to tell it in "dribbles!" :jumper:
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Congrats - One awesome moose and great story and pictures. :thumbsup: :notworthy:
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Awesome...this is one of my dream hunts. Congrats on a great bull!!!
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Thank you Walt for taking us along...
A truly memorable story and fantastic trophy.
:thumbsup:
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Nice job on all accounts!
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Wow! That is an awesome adventure!
Congrats on a great animal.
Bisch
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Thanks for sharing your adventure. What a great moose, congrats.
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Congrats on the moose. That is one of the trips i am working on saving money towards.
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YEAH BOY!!!!
WAY TO GO WALT!!!
:jumper: :jumper: :jumper: :jumper: :jumper:
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Congrats Walt!
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Congrats! Great pics and story, thanks for sharring.
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Walt,
Congratulations! Thanks for the great story and pictures. Planned a similar Alaska moose hunt over twenty years ago with a buddy. He backed out and I didn't want to go alone. Sorry I never made that trip but have no regrets of not doing a solo moose hunt.
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Had me on the edge of my seat.Thanks for sharing and congrats on a beautiful animal.
Leland
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That's awesome...congrats Walt!!!!
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Great job Walt!!! Super story also!!
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Simply incredible.
Congrats and thanks for the great story telling!
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Everybody, glad you enjoyed the read. One nice thing about taking the time during or shortly after the hunt to write about the adventure, rather game is taken or not, is you get to relive it numerous times. In addition, every time you re-read it, even decades later, every sentence opens the flood gates to the memories and feeling you had at that time. It was my pleasure to put on paper; it’s something that should be done much more often.
Thanks Wapiti
Mark & Doug, you guys know are welcome to stop by anytime. If I know my wife, she is already using this as an excuse to plan a Bar-B-Q with Karen & Penny.
Kibok&Ok, there is not much more to add regarding the equipment; it is mostly fairly generic:
• Clothing was a mixture of KOM, KUIU, & Sitka
• I already listed my thought regarding the Kifaru tent
• I used an insulated air mattress much like the Big Agness, but in a mummy shape, instead of my foam Thermarest. It worked much better, but being old and fat I am going to splurge on a Big Agness.
• For packs I used a KUIU 3000 and Dave a Kifaru with the packing shelf. Overall the KUIU handled the loads more comfortably wit heavier loads. There are cinch straps everywhere on the KUIU and the loads never moved. However, the KUIU pack is not intended for the type loads it was subjected to, the frame developed several cracks, the bag ripped at the handle when I lifted it with a ninety pound load, and the stitching started unravel in two places. The Kifaru fared much better. Everything being considered, and ignoring cost, I would opt for the KUIU because it is the most comfortable pack and carries the load better than any pack I have used. Just expect to replace it about every third trip. Seeing as how my money supply is limited, on my next trip like this the old Army ruck sack will probably be taken.
Rick, regarding a guide, one is not needed for non-residents when hunting for moose, caribou, deer, or black bear. I hunt wilderness areas in Montana all the time so Alaska does not stretch my comfort zone very far, if at all. My recommendation is you have some wilderness experience, good woodmanship skills, and most important, the ability to handle the mental side before going to Alaska self guided. Pick your partners well, I have been lucky in that respect on most every extended hunt I can remember.
Kenny, I would enjoy sharing a fire and some coffee with you if you ever make it out this way. The fire and coffee is on me if you ever decide to chase the Wapiti.
Hopewell & Kawika, both halves of the arrow are in the quiver.
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Walt, can't imagine the sense of TOTAL satifaction in what you accomplished. I was lucky enough to get a small buck with a Dean Torges selfbow years ago and I was so proud. Your accomplishment is soooo great. I am happy for you.
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Wow, what an adventure! I was glued to the edge of my chair while that big boy was approaching you. You have a great story telling ability. Thanks for sharing your hunt with us! :clapper:
Bernie Bjorklund
NC Iowa/SW Wisconsin
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Congrats and thanks for sharing the story with us.
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Walt what an awesome animal and a great story! Congratulations sir! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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Excellent telling. We were there with you through your writing skills. Thank you Sir and congratulations!!
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Thanks for taking us on a great adventure.
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Good deal Walt, thanks for the info on the Guide situation--again, Awsome Job--Love that Selfbow.
Rick
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Your story with the pics and of course the moose, was one of the best I've read to date. Love that country...thanks for sharing. :thumbsup:
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Thanks for the story and pics.Congrats on a beautiful bull.
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Thanks for sharing the story and photos. What a fantastic adventure, and so well written.
:thumbsup: :campfire:
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Reading this just fuels my fire to be a 100% traditional archer!! What a great hunt and the way you told it made me feel like I was right beside you during all the action!! Congrats on the bull and a awesome hunt!
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Well done!!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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Originally posted by Walt Francis:
Everybody, glad you enjoyed the read. One nice thing about taking the time during or shortly after the hunt to write about the adventure, rather game is taken or not, is you get to relive it numerous times. In addition, every time you re-read it, even decades later, every sentence opens the flood gates to the memories and feeling you had at that time. It was my pleasure to put on paper; it’s something that should be done much more often.
Thanks Wapiti
Mark & Doug, you guys know are welcome to stop by anytime. If I know my wife, she is already using this as an excuse to plan a Bar-B-Q with Karen & Penny.
Kibok&Ok, there is not much more to add regarding the equipment; it is mostly fairly generic:
• Clothing was a mixture of KOM, KUIU, & Sitka
• I already listed my thought regarding the Kifaru tent
• I used an insulated air mattress much like the Big Agness, but in a mummy shape, instead of my foam Thermarest. It worked much better, but being old and fat I am going to splurge on a Big Agness.
• For packs I used a KUIU 3000 and Dave a Kifaru with the packing shelf. Overall the KUIU handled the loads more comfortably wit heavier loads. There are cinch straps everywhere on the KUIU and the loads never moved. However, the KUIU pack is not intended for the type loads it was subjected to, the frame developed several cracks, the bag ripped at the handle when I lifted it with a ninety pound load, and the stitching started unravel in two places. The Kifaru fared much better. Everything being considered, and ignoring cost, I would opt for the KUIU because it is the most comfortable pack and carries the load better than any pack I have used. Just expect to replace it about every third trip. Seeing as how my money supply is limited, on my next trip like this the old Army ruck sack will probably be taken.
Rick, regarding a guide, one is not needed for non-residents when hunting for moose, caribou, deer, or black bear. I hunt wilderness areas in Montana all the time so Alaska does not stretch my comfort zone very far, if at all. My recommendation is you have some wilderness experience, good woodmanship skills, and most important, the ability to handle the mental side before going to Alaska self guided. Pick your partners well, I have been lucky in that respect on most every extended hunt I can remember.
Kenny, I would enjoy sharing a fire and some coffee with you if you ever make it out this way. The fire and coffee is on me if you ever decide to chase the Wapiti.
Hopewell & Kawika, both halves of the arrow are in the quiver.
Thanks !
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:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :notworthy: Awesome
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That is great Walt ! Moose with a bison sinew backed bow !!! Excellent writing, thanks.
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Very well done and told Walt. Congrats and looking forward to your next hunt.
Thanks. Robin
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:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :campfire:
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Amazing, congrats
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Not sure how I missed this one Walt.... :knothead:
Congrats brother that was one incredible adventure!
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Can not tell you how much I appreciated you taking the time for this! Something I may never get the chance to do. . . just thrilling to be alongside in story. Congrats.
Dan in KS
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Wow! Congratulations on a great hunt!
-Jay
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Most-excellent Walt!
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Shoot straight, Shinken
:archer2:
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Just home from Fairbanks.....
Walt: Great meeting up with you and Dave for dinner at the Pump House. I'm really glad you guys saw your dreams through to fruition. A good moose adventure in interior Alaska is not an easy thing to pull off. Doing it on your own is a very sweet reward. You guys have my complete admiration and respect!
By the way...great storytelling. I know the kind of terrain involved in the story, and I know how crazy it can be to get a big bull out of there. I just can't quit doing it the hard way!
KD
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Congrats Walt, thanks for taking us along. Fantastic expedition.
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Damn - outstanding Sir! Every single aspect!
Kris
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Great story, I loved the self talk!
Congratulations on a successful hunt like this!
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Kevin,
The dinner at the Pump house was one of the higlights of the trip.
Everybody, I am a rookie when it comes to moose compared to Kevin and his hunting buddy Bryan, they have been doing this for years. The information and advise provided by Kevin and Bryan was the template governing many of my actions during the hunt. I could of, and most likely would have, made a dozen "learning" mistakes without listening to the tactics employeed by them.
THANKS! :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
My bull is a Piss-Ant compared to the bulls those two have taken.
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Walt,
Congratulations again on a great bull! It's awesome that embers turned into fire and ultimately a fantastic bull...(at 4 yards with a selfbow)!!
The pre-hunt dinner at the Pump House was very enjoyable and I wish we could've hooked up with you and Dave to swap stories after the hunt.
As mentioned several times above, great storytelling my friend!!
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Great read Walt!! Congrats...... Terry
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One of the best story threads I have read yet. Thanks for telling it.
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congrats on a fine moose, walt! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
great story, well told, too! :clapper: :clapper: :clapper:
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:clapper: :clapper: :clapper:
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Outstanding. I can`t get over how huge them critters are.RC
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Congratulations. I really enjoyed the photos and story. Thanks!
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Never tire of this one......way to go Walt!
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Wow! Awesome story, thanks for sharing!!! :thumbsup:
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Well done! Thanks for sharing. :clapper:
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What a hunt !!
Thanks for your time and great story telling.
Great pictures also.
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WOW is all I can say.Congrats and what a hunt. :notworthy:
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Well done and well told. As good as iot gets for a hunt! Congratulations!!!!!
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great report!!!!!!!!!! great hunt - awesome well done. makes me wanna go :)
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A terrific story! Thank you, Walt, for taking the time to write and post this excellent narrative for all of us to read.
Well done, sir!
:archer:
Mike
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Im proud for ya Walt!!
Mike
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Walt...congrats Bud. That was one great read. Sounds like the hunt of a lifetime...and the "piss ant" bull you got was a blessing as I am sure he weighed a good deal less than some.
Anyway, he looks like a trophy to my eyes. I am sure he did to you too!! Great job all the way around. :thumbsup:
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Everybody, Thanks!
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Randy, how is your season going so far?
Guess I should clarify my "piss ant" statement. First, in no manner am I unhappy with my bull. Fact is I am extremely pleased about it; my feet didn't hit the ground until returning to work almost two weeks later. It was a large bull, the meat processor said it was the most meat they had received on a moose this year. Dave and I split the meat, had all of it processed, and then shipped home as excess baggage. To put the size of my bull rack into whitetail perspective: My bull was equivalent to a large bodied 140-145 class deer, similar to what you shoot most years. Kevin and Bryan are more like the Wensel's and Mitten, they hold out for the equivalent of a 165+ class deer, and they are fairly consistent at taking moose at or near the B&C class ( Like me, I don't believe they enter critters in the books). There is an account of their hunt this year on the PBS web site. It if an excellent read for everyone. Anybody who is contemplating or thinks they might hunt moose sometime should make it a mandatory read. They have Gene's number one rule down (paraphrased) "to kill big bucks/bulls you have to hunt where they are".
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Great story ,and good information.
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Walt I'd be extremly happy with your bull,congrats.You are a mentor to many of us who can't take advantage of this type of hunt,great story and good luck in the future,
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I'm not speaking for you Walt, but I took your 'piss ant' description as that of a humble man tending to play down his accomplishment. I like that incidentally, as there is far too much chest-thumping these days. I know about your bull...and anyone who thinks it's an average animal need only walk up to it for the first time. Hell of good one in fact, and far better than the average Alaskan will do with a long range centerfire rifle. Your no-ego style appeals to my ways!
Having done more than any sane man's normal amount of moose hunting...I can confidently make this statement: Kill a representative (or bigger) Alaska-Yukon bull with a simple longbow. Walk up to it and be shocked by its size. Lay your longbow across its massive chest and shoulder...then marvel at how a small weapon did this. Grab an antler and try to level out the head. Get a feel for what you've done. Get ready to feel real pain as you spend the next one or two days butchering and backpacking out your bull. Feel the pride of a job well done, and enjoy the magic of watching your moose rack soar away on the struts of a Super Cub...against the blue Alaska sky. Do all these things as Walt and his partner Dave did, and you'll understand clearly that Walt's bull...your bull...is a spectacular trophy regardless of what any man-made tape measure says.
Finally...Walt's an honest guy and trustworthy to a fault. Just don't necessarily believe everything he says about Bryan and I. We consider ourselves to be enthusiastic students of big moose, and our classroom is Alaska. Every year we learn something, and sometimes we flunk an exam!
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I love that picture with the rack hanging on your pack as you are walking. What a toad!
My season has been good Walt...if not a little lazy for my standards. Work and young kids have been taking there toll on me and I feel a little lazy lately. A tree-stand thief chapped my back-side and I let it effect me as well.
I got a small Bull Elk Sept 27. I really appreciated his smaller size when I had to pack 3/4 of him alone in the dark in grizz country. Never have put 2 quarters on my back at one time before but I have now. The rest of the season is all gravy now! Just like you. Congrats again on your Moose. Gotta be a special animal to get "under your belt" so to speak.
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Walt, thanks for the link earlier.
Note to self: start drinking coffee!!
Congrats again!
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Wow Walt! I was in the Bridger Tetons when this post went around the first time. Moose with an osage self bow... you are my hero! Just to take a real bow to the moose woods is a winner and to take a fine bull is gravy. Great story and fine feat.
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I forgot about this. Awesome hunt.
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Amazing story telling. Alaska has always been a dream of mine. Some day....
Till then.... :notworthy:
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Holy Crap!!!!!! What a GREAT read. :)
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Awesome story telling, it was like we were witnessing the hunt in person! Four yards WOW! Congrats and thanks
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Congrats Walt..what a fantastic story/hunt. Post like this is why I became a TG member. This is my dream hunt. Thanks for taking us along.