West of Eden

[Charlie Lamb]

I guess since I'm caught up to this point that I should mention that I've already had a shot at an antelope and failed to draw blood.

A yearling doe stood around being curious for just a little too long this morning and I was able to get the shot off.

The yellow fletched shaft flew without a flutter an inch or two over it's back.
A guy wants everyone to think he's infallible, but I can assure you that's not the case here.

Disappointed with the miss, I was however pleased that the antelope didn't budge until the arrow was past her.

I'm shooting a new longbow this year and am very tickled with the way I shoot it. It's also dead quiet on release.

Joe and I had been seeing the odd ground squirrel here and there and we took time out in a little meadow down by the creek to harass them.

Only one shot was taken and that too missed. I'm not claiming this miss however.

I do believe this tale is going to grow into something pretty special. For now we're off to more adventures.

[Killdeer]

Good to see Joe Blackwell again, that is quite the rainbow he is holding in his hands! You all are quite lucky to be spending some time with him.

Killdeer  

[Benny Nganabbarru]

   

[IB]

   

[Whip]

Boy, you know the fishing has got to be good when a novice can catch fish like that!  

Prior to this trip I think I had caught a grand total of maybe three trout on a fly rod.  Within the first 10 minutes of fishing I had already doubled my lifetime achievement total.  And every one of them was larger than any I had ever seen before.  Not only is the fishing outstanding, it is taking place in one of the most beautiful spots on earth.  I might just as well give up any thoughts of becoming a real flyfisherman, because I think I have been spoiled for like.  It can't possibly get any better!

Keeping up the posting on this thread is difficult with so many things to do with our limited time.  Rest assured there will be more to follow, both in stories and in pictures.  

The antelope seem to have different patterns than in prior years here from what I am told.  But we have found some spots with potential, and it is time to see what we can make of those opportunities.  Stay tuned......

[BowHuntingFool]

Looking forward to more updates Joe! Nice catch by the way, congrats!

[nurayb]

What unit are you guys hunting?  I'm heading over to 87 with a couple doe/fawn tags on thursday.

[smiley]

Check on willow tree hunt club Barry got a date if it works

[smoke1953]

Sitting at the cabin  with the dog on a gorgeous late summer day after checking stand locations and reading your thread brings thoughts on how special each day can be.

[Missouri Sherpa]

This only serves to remind me that life is too short.  There is not enough time to spend with good friends or to be able to squeeze in all the hunting and fishing you would like.  I feel the urge to retire early or maybe change to part time work.  Enjoy these days while you are able.

[hormoan]

Well said John, the Mondays appear faster and faster. The time in camp goes so fast also, but those times carry us through till the next year.

I am so glad you guys are living the high life    

And by the way NICE FISH   :D  I see a very nice meal right there Vance   :D

[Guru]

Talked to vance today and everyone is having a big ol' time.....but he was bummin' because Woodie and gang where getting ready to leave    :(

 I can tell you one thing about Vance for guys that don't know...there is nobody that appreciates time spend with good people any more than Vance Brewer.They just don't come any better    

[Whip]

After the usual leisurely start to the morning accompanied by copious amounts of coffee Charlie and I decided to take an inventory of the antelope herd.  We found them in the same spot as yesterday, and some seemed to be favoring a small stock pond.  Closer inspection showed some taller sage brush within shooting distance that could provide cover to a well camouflaged hunter.

I decided to spend a few hours tucked in with a ghillie suit and see what might come my way.  Two and a half hours of sitting on a small chair started playing havoc with my back so I took a break and lay flat on the ground.  I don't even think it is necessary to tell you the rest.

No more than five minutes laying on the ground and I heard a commotion at the pond.  The slight raise of my head to see what was going on drew the immediate attention of an antelope doe.  She was with a fawn, another doe, and a buck. And I was busted.

Dang!       Double Dang!          

The corner buck.
 

[Charlie Lamb]

Vance and I just got back from a run to town. I walked in the house to find Joe, fingers flying, composing on the computer.

Not wanting to bother, I sat down and started reading a few threads on the other computer right beside him.

After a bit I could stand it no longer. I asked how things had gone thinking perhaps it had been a slow afternoon by the waterhole.
All Joe had to say was, "wait a minute and you can read what happened".

I admit to being suddenly more attentive, visually checking his fingers and hands for telltale signs of field dressing.... nothing.

So I went ahead and waited and opened the thread as soon as he hit "Add Reply".

I gave him a good thump on the arm for everyone for his lapse of attention at the water.
   

Of course nobody will be tougher on him  than he is himself at this point.
He's got plans for tomorrow and my money is ridin on Joe.

[hormoan]

The best laid plans.  


       

Sorry Joe, I could not resist   :D

[smoke1953]

Now that's good.  

[Killdeer]

I had to save that pic... beautiful! Catches the essence of the place.

What great wallpaper that would make. I mean in the living room!!
Killdeer

[sticshooter]

Awesome pic and posts. Hey Joe Shell says I can EAT all the trout you catch on my diet.    <><

[smiley]

Whip get it out your  of system this week and get ready for next week  

[Terry Green]