the outfitter of the year

Transcription

Volume 5
TOP GUIDES AND OUTFITTERS FROM COAST TO COAST
SEA DUCK HUNT OFF KODIAK ISLAND WITH
THE OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
“Left, Left, Left! Take the drake on the left!” barked out veteran sea duck
guide Scotty Phelps as Petee and I tag teamed three gorgeous drake Old
Squaws. Action packed does not even begin to describe this hunting adventure. From the moment we set foot on the charter boat taking us from
Kodiak City to the small fishing village of Port Lions, Alaska, the adventure
began. We were immediately greeted by two Orca whales that briefly
swam beside the boat and offered some amazing photo opportunities.
Then the resident sea otters started popping up left and right. Curious little
creatures, they just had to see what we were up to. As we moved closer to
the village of Port Lions, big flocks of greater scaup and sea quail started lifting off. Heck we even saw a harbor seal swim by the bow. And talk about
a view- the landscape was amazing and the temperature wasn’t bad either,
considering it was mid December. The temps were over 40 degrees with
sunny skies as we made our way across Kizhuyak Bay. That was one big
misconception that outfitter Gerrit Hintz of Kodiak Sports and Tour cleared
up for us right away. Continued on page 3
THE SCENT
CONTROL DEBATE
Many people expect too much from
carbon clothing and don’t understand
its limitations. The amount of scent
a garment can absorb is limited so
it is very important to protect clothing
from everyday odors such as getting
into the cab of your truck, refueling or
from breakfast. Continued on page 11
Retriever
Performance
Events and
Why You
Should Care
I’ve heard it all! “I don’t need a dog
that good” or “Field trial dogs are
too hyper for my needs” or “Trial
dogs are too expensive.” Well, let
me explain why all hunters should
pay attention to trial dogs.
The American Kennel Club (AKC)
offers two performance event programs for retrievers, which are Field
Trials and Hunt Tests. Field Trials are
competition driven and the dogs do
work that is incredibly difficult over
huge distances. The first time observer may find these events fascinating
but of little relevance to their world
of hunting... continued on page 14
MISSION STATEMENT
At HuntTheNorth.com we thoroughly research and hand pick the Premier Waterfowl, Big Game,
Upland Bird & Turkey Hunting Guides & Outfitters across the Midwest, Canada & Alaska to assure
you of a Quality Hunting Experience!
Searching for an outfitter who can offer you a World Class Elk Hunt in Montana or
Wyoming? How ‘bout something a little more dangerous like a brown bear hunt in Alaska… not
something you want to trust to a novice guide that’s for sure. Maybe you are a die hard waterfowler
looking for some “In Your Face” Canada goose hunting action. Or are you a collector looking to
complete your North American waterfowl collection? An investment in time and money that just
can’t be left to chance. At HuntTheNorth.com we have done the research for you. We have hand
picked a select group of what we feel are the Premier Guides and Outfitters in each state that we
can confidently refer for your next dream hunt.
HuntTheNorth.com is comprised of Professional Outdoorsmen with many years of experience
Dan Wennerlind
President
in guiding and hunting everything from Waterfowl and Big Game to Upland Birds and Turkeys.
The service that our website provides is a private study of the guides and outfitters located across
the Midwest, Canada and Alaska for all types of hunting. In an attempt to create a valued resource
for the avid outdoorsman who desires a new type of adventure, a new area to discover or just a
quality hunting experience, we hope you find our website invaluable. Each outfitter posted on
our website has been thoroughly researched and evaluated to make sure that you will be given
the hunting experience that you want without any unexpected surprises. We are striving to be a
valued resource to put into your arsenal for the future. After your hunt, please make sure to submit
a complete review of how your hunt was to: reviews@huntthenorth.com, good or bad they are
much appreciated. Thank you very much for utilizing our services. Good Hunting!
HuntTheNorth.com
Table of Contents
2............. About Huntthenorth.com
3............. Featured Outfitter of the Year
4-6.......... Waterfowl Hunting Adventures
7............. Marketplace
8-10........ Big Game Hunting Adventures
11........... The Scent Control Debate
12........... Upland Bird Hunting Adventures
13........... Spring Snow Goose
Hunting Adventures
14........... Retriever Performance Events
and Why You Should Care
15........... Hunting Dogs
16-20...... 2008 Hunting Equipment
Melissa Schlosser
Website Development
Dustin Butler
Marketing/Graphics
Keith Luckeroth
Marketing/Production
Ryan Williams
Field Representative
T.J. Sirovatka
Troy Maag
Matt Sayer
Field Editor
Greg Ye
Field Editor
To Advertise Your Business With Our Service At HuntTheNorth.com Please Contact Us At 715-755-4648
2
2008 FEATURED OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
Kodiak Sports And Tour
...Continued from cover
He stated that the winters on Kodiak Island are typically very moderate averaging 30
degrees all winter long, with the exception of a few cold spells and fronts that quickly
pass through from time to time. It was a very exciting start to the trip.
That evening, over a five star meal of halibut steaks and home style potatoes at the
Kodiak Paradise Lodge, guide Scotty Phelps sat down with all four members of our
group which consisted of Chuck Ellingson, Matt Endrizzi, Kris “Petee” Peterson and
myself. He asked us what our specific goals were for the trip. Scotty explained to us that
we would have multiple opportunities to take almost every species of sea duck. Sport
fishing for halibut was also an option since we were all properly licensed and we could
all harvest one of the island’s trophy silver, red and hybrid foxes that commonly roam
the shorelines at low tide. With so much to do it was going to be hard to fit it all into
a 5 day trip.
As we hopped onto Gerrit’s 32 foot tender boat the next day Scotty gave us a thorough
run down on all of the safety features. He also shared with us the do’s and don’ts
for the trip as mistakes in this country can be costly. The boat came fully equipped
with a complimentary concession bar, extra dry clothes and a home cooked hot lunch
prepared daily by Gerrit’s lovely wife Claudia. No detail went unattended to that was for
sure. As we pulled out of port I had to admire their set up. We had a two man layout
boat hoisted on a rack over the top of the main boat, while we pulled an 18 foot “assault
vessel” as Gerrit called it. We were ready for anything!
Scotty said that our group size of four hunters was perfect as we would be hunting in
groups of two throughout the trip. Our goal would be to get three sets in each day. Two
of us would hunt out of the layout boat while the other two would do a shore set up. We
would be targeting specific species of waterfowl with each set. Scotty explained that we
would most likely take harlequin, bufflehead, barrows and common goldeneye as well
as red breasted and common mergansers from the shore set. The layout boat hunters
could expect to take old squaw, common, white winged and surf scoters. Scotty’s 20
years of Alaska waterfowl hunting experience were going to pay off big!
I had to ask our guides how many other outfitters in the area had such extensive duck
hunting equipment. Scott stated that there were a couple of other outfitters that guide
sea duck hunters on the island and a few locals that hunt but overall there is very little
pressure. He also said that Kodiak Sports and Tour was the only one in the area with a
two man layout boat system, which he has found to be the most effective and enjoyable
style of hunting and targeting individual species of sea ducks.
As we headed 25 miles out from base camp to Shelikof Straight, Scotty explained that
they only get out this far once or twice a season, weather permitting, and today we
were in luck. With calm seas and plenty of waterfowl in this remote area, we were in for
a great hunt. Today Matt and I were up first for the layout boat. Gerrit set us up right
in the middle of two land spits so any incoming ducks would have to fly right through
us. It only took about 45 minutes before Matt and I each had our limit of 7 sea ducks a
piece. We took a mixed bag of six gorgeous harlequin drakes, a common merganser,
three drake common scoters and then dumped a four pack of white winged scoters to
end the hunt. Truly amazing!
After lunch, it was Chuck and Petee’s turn. With the seas F.A.C. (flat ass calm) as they
call it, we pushed on even further to a remote bay which was as far out as we could go.
We quickly found large flocks of common scoters, white winged scoters and old squaws.
After putting Chuck and Petee into the layout rig, we drifted down about a ½ mile and
watched the action. First Chuck dropped a beautiful drake old squaw. Then Petee had
a pair of harlequins come in on his side and took a nice double. When the smoke finally
cleared, the boys had a nice mixed bag and ended the day on a positive note.
After the third day’s hunt, Scott and Gerrit sat down with us to see how our individual
trophy lists were coming along. I was still missing two old squaw drakes, one white
winged scoter and one drake surf scoter. The rest of the boys were right on pace only
missing a duck or two here and there. The next morning we started off with a halibut
drift through “Whale Pass” before it got light to see if the bite was on. Petee quickly
hooked into a nice 15 pounder but that was it. The bite was off and so were we. Our
guides told us that today we would be splitting up and doing a spot and stalk type
mission to make sure that everybody was able to take the remaining ducks they desired.
The plan was to spot a targeted flock, slowly motor up within 80 yards and then drift
into the flock while picking out the nicest drake. As soon as the birds lifted off we were
able to take the best drake in the flock. This was very effective as Chuck and I had
our first chance to hunt together. We each took our remaining old squaws and white
winged scoters. Although the trophy King Eider eluded us this trip, none of us were too
disappointed as Scotty had forewarned us that a chance at that bird would be peer luck
and we should not expect it.
That night we enjoyed another round of spectacular hors d’ oeuvres and a most
memorable meal of king crab and steak for dinner with all the fixings! A home made
chocolate cake topped off the meal and we were all completely stuffed. We found this
to be a common problem at the Kodiak Paradise Lodge. One by one we all fell off to
bed that night as we watched season 3 of “The Deadliest Catch” on the big screen
which both of our guides had been apart of at one time or another. Not a job I would
want after hearing their stories let me tell you.
I was up bright and early for our last day’s hunt. With the pressure off, it was time
to sit back and take it all in. It was sure nice not to be struggling for birds at the last
minute. Since Petee still wanted one more drake barrows goldeneye and Chuck and
Matt were content with a shoreline hunt, Gerrit sat with them on a relaxing shore hunt
while Scotty and I went off on a fox hunting adventure. I was amazed at how quickly
the fox responded to Scott’s jack rabbit distress call. Our first set took a matter of 15
minutes from start to finish. Right off the bat we had a big dog come barreling in on
us. Unfortunately he came in from behind and I was unable to take a shot. No worries
Scotty said there are plenty more around. We hopped back in the boat and moved
down another ½ mile and did the same routine. On the second set, I had a nice little
female come racing by me at less than three yards! Five sets and six fox later I finally
found the one I was looking for. It was a gorgeous male red and silver cross and weighed
in at nearly 35 pounds- about the size of a coyote in the lower 48. What a thrill!
As we headed back to meet up with the rest of the crew, we found that they had a
decent hunt as well taking a mixed bag of 8 nice divers. We decided that with the last
few hours left on our trip, we would take one more shot at some deep sea fishing. Ten
minutes into the first drift, Matt hooked into a 40 pound halibut. Now this time of year
the fish were deep and pulling in a fish that size from 330 feet down is no easy task.
Within the next 20 minutes I hooked into two nice halibut between 20 – 35 pounds.
The bite was definitely on! Next it was Petee’s turn as he pulled in two nice 20 pound
halibut. In between, Chuck was reeling in cod after cod. As the sun hit the horizon, we
were all grinning from ear to ear and enjoyed the last few minutes of our great Alaskan
adventure together!
That evening, I sat down with Gerrit and Scott while they boxed up our trophies for
the long trip home. I shared with them our many thanks as this trip was everything
we had hoped for and more. From the Five Star meals and lodging to the World Class
waterfowling and fishing. I was most pleased to announce to them that Kodiak Sports
and Tour would be named the HuntTheNorth.com 2008 Outfitter Of The Year!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS FANTASTIC WATERFOWL HUNTING ADVENTURE CONTACT:
Outfitter: Scott Phelps, Kodiak Sports And Tour, Phone: 417-272-1311
Email: KSTKODIAK@AOL.COM
Website: WWW.KSTKODIAK.COM
3
The Watson Hunting Camp
Western, Minnesota
Specializing In: Canada Goose and Duck Hunts
At The Watson Hunting Camp we offer a different style of Canada goose hunt then most Lac Qui Parle Goose Hunters are used
to. Instead of pass shooting geese out of pre determined blind or pit positions, that have proven to be highly unsuccessful for
hundreds of hunters each year.
We offer a Fully Guided Canada goose hunt over large spreads of the highest quality goose decoys on the market. You can
expect to hunt pre-scouted fields that have actually had geese feeding in them the night before instead of hoping for a high
wind that may or may not drive the birds to fly low the next day.
You can also expect to be hunt out of comfortable layout ground blinds with an experienced guide that knows how to call and
land Canada geese. Be assured that if you book a guided Canada goose hunt with The Watson Hunting Camp you can expect
to shoot landing Canada geese for a truly “In Your Face” hunting experience!
At The Watson Hunting Camp we also offer big water duck hunts. We have access to several of the largest bodies of water in
western Minnesota including the infamous Marsh Lake and Lac Qui Parle Lake, both of which draw thousands of Mallards and
Divers each fall. With equipment such as our 17 foot enclosed boat blind which comes fully equipped with heaters and
breakfast facilities when those late morning hungers strike.
Minnesota Upland Bird Hunts:
At the Watson Hunting Camp we also offer premier upland bird hunting in western Minnesota
for both pheasants and Minnesota’s newest game bird, doves. Our pheasant hunts are first
class and we have the option of providing you with a traditional wild bird hunt or for a more
relaxing hunt enjoy a preserve hunt on over 65 acres
of gorgeous western Minnesota prairie. Either way we can also aid in the hunt with our
professionally trained dogs and proficient and experienced guides.
Hunting Package and Rates:
We offer Daily Rates of $195.00 per gun. This includes one nights lodging. We also offer a 3
Day / 4 Night Hunting Package which also include your lodging in our brand new lodge. We
have meal packages available upon request. There are No Membership Fees for our preserve
pheasant hunts. Please call Chuck for details and pricing on all of our hunts.
Contact Information: Owner: Chuck Ellingson Phone: 320-269-9136
Camp Address: 10370 10th Street NW Watson, MN 56295 Website: www.watsonhunting.com
Make sure you mention Hunt The North.com when you book a hunt with this outfitter
First Flight Finishers
Minnesota (Twin City Metro & Southern MN)
Specializing In: Minnesota Guided Canada Goose & Duck Hunts
About The Hunt:
First Flight Finishers is based out of the Twin City Metro area and southern MN. Outfitter Adam Johnson specializes in landing
Canada geese and Snow geese. On your hunt, you can expect to hunt freshly scouted fields with an overwhelming number of
birds feeding in the field, to duck marshes that hold a numerous variety of waterfowl, as well as early & late season golf course
hunts. We use ALL Full Body Decoys totaling hundreds of decoys depending on the field. We are one of the only guide services
that offer 30+ fields to hunt in the metro area as well as 5 golf courses. By having that many spots we can more easily locate
where the geese and ducks are flying. Book today and see what a grain or golf course field hunt in the Twin Cities, Rochester,
& Mankato is like.
MN Early & Late Season Goose Hunts- Daily Rates: $125 per gun (5 honkers/day). Prime (Regular) Season Daily Rates: $75
Weekday......$90 Weekend day. MN Fall Duck & Goose combo hunts: $125 per gun. Lodging and meals are not included but
recommendations for area lodging will be made at the time of booking.
SPECIAL W/THIS PAPER: PRIME (REGULAR) SEASON CANADA GOOSE HUNT $65. FIND US ON HUNTTHENORTH.
COM ND & MN SPRING SNOW GOOSE OUTFITTERS SITE & SEE OUR OUTFITTER REVIEW.
Also Offering:
SPRING SNOW GOOSE HUNTS: Missouri, South Dakota, & Minnesota
About The Hunt:
First Flight Finishers also specializes in guided spring snow goose hunts. These hunts start up at the end of February in Mound
City, Missouri around the Squaw Creek NWR. We then follow the birds north into South Dakota and South western Minnesota
through mid April. Outfitter Adam Johnson has been successfully guiding spring snow goose hunters for over 6 years now and
has the experience and dedication to make sure you have a quality hunt. Adam has well over 40,000 acres of private property
at his disposal in these areas to assure you will be hunting fresh fields full of geese on your hunt. Adam’s spread consists of over
1,000 custom Avery full body snow and blue goose decoys and Sillosock decoys specially treated with a custom UV paint.
Adam has invested countless hours and dollars into his decoy spreads. He also has the finest electronic callers and layout
blinds to make your hunt as comfortable as possible. A spring hunt with First Flight Finishers will be a most memorable
hunting experience!
Hunt Package and Rates:
SPRING SNOW GOOSE Hunting Daily Rates: $150.00 per gun. This includes your guide fees and a fully prepared hunt.
Lodging and meals are not included but recommendations for area lodging will be offered at the time of booking.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Adam Johnson Phone: 651-442-7259
Address: 4824 Sharon Lane, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Website: www.firstflightfinishers.com
4
Black Duck Outfitters
Delta Marsh, Manitoba
Specializing In: Fantastic Decoying Waterfowl Hunts!
Waterfowl Hunting:
The Delta Marsh is legendary for its World Class Duck Hunting! You will see birds in far greater numbers than you could ever
imagine. We shoot mixed limits of ducks including Mallard, Pintail, Teal, Widgeon, Bluebill, Redhead, Canvasbacks ...just about
every duck that travels the Central and Mississippi Flyways! (limits of 8 per ducks day). Our Canadian guides have been hunting
the marsh their whole lives and know where these birds are. Our field goose hunting is also fantastic. During your hunt you will
be staying at the famous Hextall Lodge- home of duck hunting memories for generations of hunters. Comfortable lodging and
excellent meals are All Included! Contact Scott today for details and available dates on this World Class Manitoba Duck Hunt!
We are now offering an All Inclusive 3 Day Hunt Package for $1,095. This includes lodging at the infamous Hextall Lodge and
home cooked meals. Please call for a FREE DVD sharing with you excellent footage of last season’s hunts!
Also Offering:
World Class Maryland Sea Duck Hunting, Diver Duck Hunting and Canada Goose Hunts
About The Hunt:
Outfitter Scott Barmby would also like to invite you on an amazing Maryland Sea Duck
Hunting adventure just 45 minutes from the Washington D.C. and Baltimore Maryland airports. Our goal is to offer you a truly memorable waterfowl hunting adventure. During your
sea duck hunting adventure you can expect to hunt over top of the line decoys and will have
opportunities at taking numerous species of sea ducks and diver ducks during your trip. In addition to our fantastic sea duck hunts, Black Duck Outfitters also offers river hunts for Canada
geese, Puddle ducks and Diver ducks. Please contact outfitter Scott Barmby for more details
on our World Class Maryland Waterfowl Hunts.
Parties of four hunters- $800.00 per day. 50% deposit expected at time of booking. Lodging
and meals not included but reservations can be made if requested.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Scott Barmby Phone: 1-877-607-6014
Address: 6509 Carrie Lynn Ct. Mt. Airy MD 21771 Website: www.blackduckoutfitters.com
Prairies Edge
Mound City, Missouri/Des Moines, Iowa
Specializing In: Premier Fall Duck and Goose Hunts
Waterfowl Hunting:
At Prairies Edge Goose Club we offer exceptional waterfowl hunts in Mound City, Missouri as well as with in 1 hour drive from
Des Moines, Iowa. Outfitter Shawn Eldridge has been successfully guiding waterfowl hunters for over 18 years. Shawn specializes in decoying Canada geese, Snow geese and many species of ducks. In addition to Shawn’s Iowa waterfowl hunts, he offers
premier waterfowl hunts in northwest Missouri and Iowa for Canada goose, Snow goose and Duck hunts. Shawn also offers an
early season Canada goose hunt in the metro area of Minneapolis, MN. During your Missouri hunt you can expect to hunt out
of permanent pits or quality layout blinds and/or above ground blinds. Shawn uses quality decoy spreads and is one of the longest running guide services in the Midwest. Shawn uses his vast knowledge and experience and attention to detail in the field
to assure each and every hunter a QUALITY hunting experience!
Daily Missouri Fall Waterfowl Hunts over flooded corn: $155.00 per gun. We can accommodate most any group size for as long
as you would like to stay.
Also Offering:
Missouri and South Dakota Spring Snow Goose Hunts
Spring Snow Goose Hunting:
At Prairies Edge Goose Club we also offer exceptional spring snow goose hunts. Shawn Eldredge has been successfully guiding snow goose hunters during the spring conservation order
ever since the season started. Shawn’s hunts take place in SW Iowa as well as NW Missouri
around the Squaw Creek NWR. On your hunt you can expect to hunt from Pit Blinds, Layout
Blinds or Hay Bale Blinds. Shawn hunts over large spreads of Big foots, Sillosocks and Windsock
Snow Goose Decoys. All of Shawn’s spring snow goose hunts take place from legal shooting
time each morning through 6:00 p.m. each day. Contact Shawn today for details on availability
for the upcoming spring season.
Daily Spring Snow Goose Hunt Package $155.00 per gun. As with our fall hunts, we can
accommodate most any, group size for any length stay.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Shawn Eldredge Phone: 515-321-4667
Address: P. O. Box 351 Mound City, Missouri 64470 Website: www.gooseguru.com
5
High Prairie Outfitters CO
NW of North Battleford,
Saskatchewan
Specializing In: Saskatchewan Waterfowl Hunts
Waterfowl Hunting:
Travel to north Saskatchewan and enjoy truly world class waterfowl hunting with experienced guides, trained bird dogs and stay
in warm comfortable accommodations. The geographic area licensed to High Prairie is 1,200 square miles, by having access to
such a large hunting area we have the ability to move hunter’s right where the game is on any given day. The highest quality
blinds and decoys are used in order to conceal the hunters and to bring the birds within close range. Daily limits of eight Canada geese and eight ducks are the norm. Speckled geese and snow geese are also available. Upland bird hunts are also available;
the daily limits are 10 Ruff Grouse, 8 Hungarian Partridge and 3 Sharptail. We encourage hunters to bring their own dogs to this
land of unlimited waterfowl species and a wonderful upland habitat. Check out the waterfowl videos on our web site.
2008 fully guided hunts will be $2,050 for three days (plus 6% GST tax). Lower rates for larger groups may be negotiated.
All meals and lodging are included-guests stay in their own comfortable three bedroom two full bath water front home. Not
included: shells, license, alcohol and bird cleaning (may be arranged ahead of time). Taking 2008 Reservations NOW. Rates are
based upon three and six day hunts. Hunts and therefore rates are customized to the hunter’s desired amenities and group size.
Wonderful meals and comfortable lodging is available.
Also Offering: Saskatchewan Upland Bird Hunts
About The Hunt:
Hunting for upland birds such as Ruffed Grouse, Hungarian Partridge and Sharptail in the northern
areas of Saskatchewan is a very popular hunting opportunity. Many waterfowl hunters who come to
Saskatchewan also make a point to experience the exhilarating action of the upland bird hunt. Daily
limits are 10 Ruffed Grouse, 8 Hungarian Partridge and 3 Sharptail. Upland bird hunting is excellent
during early September thru October and may be combined with waterfowl hunts as well.
2008 fully guided hunts will be $2,050 for three days (plus 6% GST tax). Lower rates for larger groups
may be negotiated. All meals and lodging are included-guests stay in their own comfortable three
bedroom two full bath water front home. Not included: shells, license, alcohol and bird cleaning (may
be arranged ahead of time). Taking 2008 Reservations NOW. Rates are based upon three day hunts.
Hunts and therefore rates are customized to the hunter’s desired amenities and group size. Upland bird
hunts may be combined with waterfowl hunts. Wonderful meals and comfortable lodging is available.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Dave Ciani Phone: 605.578.1222
Address: 11904 Crook City Road Whitewood, South Dakota 57793 Website: www.highprairieoutfitters.com
Feathered Horizon Outfitters
Alexander, Manitoba
Specializing In: Fully Guided Manitoba Duck and Goose Hunts.
About the Hunt:
We are based out of Neepawa, Manitoba in the heart of Canada’s prairie pothole region. Our areas exceptional population of
resident waterfowl along with being a major stopover for migrators lends our hunters the daily opportunity at harvesting high
numbers of birds. Our goal is decoying ducks and geese in close. We use only the best gear and being skilled callers and very
detail orientated, we are extremely successful at doing so. The field hunting for large Canadas, lessers, snows/ blues and
mallards are some of the very best found anywhere. Afternoon duck hunts in fields, sloughs or small lakes is also available.
We take video footage during your stay and produce a DVD for each hunter in the group to take home with them.
Hunting Packages and Rates:
3 Day Hunt- $900 USD per hunter / group sizes of 4 - 6 hunters . (Minimum of 3 day hunt period required).
Lodging and meals not included but reservations will be made if requested.
Also Offering: Manitoba Spring Snow Goose Hunts.
About The Hunt:
Our spring hunts for snows and blues take place around Whitewater Lake and the surrounding area, within 45 min. of the North Dakota border (Rugby area). Despite these geese being
gunned for 7 straight months before they get to us in April, they again become very willing to
decoy. As quick as these birds can become spooky after being shot at a couple of times, they
soon learn that once they hit our southern border they can relax and fatten up for the last
push north to the breeding grounds. This allows our hunters to shoot spring snows usually
within 35 yards.
Hunting Rates and Packages:
$175.00 per day with a minimum of 2 hunters. 50% deposit required at booking.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Dan Nuemann Phone: 204-752-2169 or 204-476-0513
Address: P.O. Box 34 Alexander, Manitoba R0K 0A0 Website: www.fhohunting.com
6
SOUTH ROCHESTER
ATTENTION GOOSE HUNTERS!
Make Holiday Inn South in Rochester, MN
your goose hunting headquarters.
• Corporate rate for all hunters
• In-room coffee makers • Dogs welcome
• Viking lounge sports bar & grill
1630 So. Broadway, Rochester, MN
507-288-1844
FOREST
INN
Amery’s Finest Motel
SPORTSMEN WELCOME
Suites with kitchenettes
Hot tubs, Cable TV, HBO
For Reservations Call
1-800-763-1263
1045 Riverplace Dr. Amery, WI
Located off of Hwy 46
DEER’S FOOD LOCKER
Deer Park, Wisconsin 54007
Offering Wild Game Processing
Custom Processing:
Curing & Smoking • Sausage Making
Retail:
Meat by the half, Quarter or Pound
Cheese and Sausage • Locker Rental
715-269-5118
7
Gateway North Outfitters
Fort Frances, Ontario
Specializing In: Ontario Whitetail Deer Hunting & Black Bear Hunting
Whitetail Deer Hunts:
Call now to book your 2008 Canadian hunting adventure, we limit the number of hunters each year and are starting to fill up.
Our whitetail hunts are in remote areas and success rates typically run 70% or better. Our hunting area varies from lakes, pine
ridges, cedar swamps, beaver ponds, and old growth clear cuts. We have three different locations we operate out of depending
on deer activity and weather conditions. We access these areas via truck, 4wheeler, boat, and/or float plane. All hunts take place
in remote bush country with low hunting pressure and have excellent potential for trophy class bucks. Our willingness to be
mobile and go where the deer are means your odds of finding that buck of a lifetime are better than ever.
5 Day / 6 Night Whitetail Deer Hunt American Plan Package- $2,295 per hunter. This is an All Inclusive Hunt with remote island
cabin accommodations and 3 home cooked meals a day. Housekeeping Package- $1,995 per hunter.
Also Offering: Ontario Black Bear Hunts
About The Hunt:
We offer a semi guided drive in bear hunt from our cabins on Off Lake.
The method of hunting is sitting on stand at pre-baited sites. The bait sites are accessed by old
logging roads and/or by lake. We start the pre baiting about a month before the hunt starts to
ensure your success. This, along with limiting the number of hunters every year, and the high
number of bears in our area, typically give our hunters 100% shot opportunity at a bear. The
bears in our area average 150 - 300 pounds, with some pushing over 500 pounds. If you are
looking for a high success bear hunt, this is it.
6 Day / 7 Night Semi-guided Black Bear Hunt American Plan Package $2,000 per hunter from
August 15 - September 30. Cabin Accommodations and home cooked meals All Included!
Housekeeping Package $1,650 per hunter
Contact Information: Outfitter: Lucas Adams Phone: 807 482 1388
Address: RR2 - Emo, Ontario POW-1E0 Website: www.gatewaynorthoutfitters.net
Majestic Ranch Hunting Service St. Charles, South Dakota
Specializing In: South Dakota Whitetail Deer and Mule Deer Hunts
Deer Hunting:
At Majestic Ranch Hunting Service we offer Fantastic Whitetail Deer and Mule Deer Hunting near St. Charles, South Dakota,
located 2.5 hours southwest of Sioux Falls. We can accommodate both rifle and archery deer hunters and only allow 6 deer
hunters in camp at one time throughout the season. We have 13,000 acres of contiguous private property available for the
hunt. The property terrain includes big oak stands and cedar stands along the Missouri river breaks. Head guide and outfitter
Randy Odenbach has been hunting and guiding hunters on this property for over 13 years. In 2006, 13 hunters harvested
12 bucks ranging from 140 class to 168 class. The hunts are two on one with the option of paying a little extra for a one
on one hunting experience. All of our hunts are “All Inclusive” with on site lodging included in our 5,000 sq. ft. Bed and
Breakfast style lodge.
We are now offering a 5 Day All Inclusive Whitetail / Mule Deer Hunt for $3,800.
This includes lodging at our 5,000 sq. ft. Bed and Breakfast style lodge and a full meal package.
Also Offering: South Dakota Spring Merriam Turkey Hunts
Spring Turkey Hunting:
We also offer exceptional Spring Merriam Turkey Hunts. We can accommodate both shotgun
& archery hunters. We have full access to our 13,000 acres of contiguous private property
available for the hunt. This is a challenging hunt as the property terrain runs along the Missouri river breaks. This is a walk and stalk style turkey hunt but we also use some ground blinds
as needed. In 2006, 16 hunters had 100% success turkey hunting on our property. We also
offer a self guided package for the Do-It Yourself turkey hunter. Our hunts are 2 on 1 with the
option of paying a little extra for a 1 on 1 hunt.
We are now offering a 3 Day All Inclusive Guided Spring Turkey Hunt with gun or bow for
$1,700 per hunter. This also includes lodging at our 5,000 sq. ft. Bed and Breakfast style lodge
and a full meal package.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Randy Odenbach Phone: 605-835-8971
Address: 32941 289th Street Dallas, SD 57529 www.majesticranchhunting.com
8
Dampier Hunting Lodge
Newcastle, Wyoming
Specializing In: Wyoming Antelope Hunts
Big Game Hunts:
We have the finest antelope hunting that can be found anywhere. Our hunters have been taking 12-15 inch antelope each year.
The antelope are smart and well worth the investment in a license. Hunts are conducted on rolling prairie with lots of walking.
We use 4x4 vehicles as transportation to and from the hunting ground. Hunting is from daylight to dark and strictly fair chase.
Scenery is spectacular and temperatures range from below freezing to the 80’s. Season dates are from October 1 through the
15th for rifle and September 1 through the 30th for archery. Crossbows are legal but expanding broad heads are not allowed.
Antelope is the ultimate challenge.
A fully guided 3 day antelope hunt is $1400.00. This is the same price for archery as well. We also offer a 7 day archery
combination hunt for deer and antelope which is $3495.00. This includes lodging and meals in our beautiful lodge designed
for comfort and relaxation. We have private rooms, bunk rooms and cabins. Meals are served buffet style and lunches are
provided during your hunts.
Also Offering:
Wyoming Mule Deer Hunts
About The Hunt:
We also have some of the best mule deer hunting anywhere. We are located in the Black Hills of Wyoming and the terrain is
breathtaking. We constantly see mature 4 and 5 on a side animals. These are fully guided hunts as well. Our guides have all
been with us for several years and they know the land and the animals. The season runs from November 1 thru the 20th. We do
have combination hunts for antelope and deer from October 1 thru the 15th and from October 30th thru November 20th. We
also offer a September 1st thru September 30th archery hunt.
November deer hunts are fully guided and a 4 day hunt is $2795.00. This includes your lodging, breakfast, a sack lunch and a
buffet style meal at the end of the day. We also have 5 day combination hunts for antelope and deer available from October 1th
thru the 15th for $2,795.00 and a 7 day combination split hunt available for $3695.00. The split hunt would require the hunter
to come during the October season and return for the November season. The 4 day September archery hunt is $2695.00 or we
have a 7 day combination hunt for deer and antelope.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Dampier Hunting Lodge- Outfitter license #DA027 25135, Phone: 1-800-251-9165
Address: US Hwy 85, Newcastle, WY 82701. Website: www.dampierlodge.vcn.com
9
Barry Brown’s Game Hunts
Atikokan, Ontario
Specializing In: Ontario Black Bear Hunts
Big Game Hunts:
With nearly 1 million acres of Exclusively Leased Hunting Grounds in one of the Densest Populated Black Bear Areas in Ontario,
we are certain we can offer you a hunt worth remembering. Based on our knowledge and lifelong experience, we “guesstimate” this region sustains approximately 1500 - 1800 Bruins. Many of our Trophies are colored animals - Blond, Cinnamon,
Chocolate, Black! (White Chest Markings - V’s, Crosses, etc.) An impressive number of “Pope & Young” & “Boone & Crocket”
animals have been harvested in our many years in business. We limit the number of Hunters - generally 12 to 15 per week,
often fewer! You may hunt as close as 1 mile from the Lodge or as far as 50 miles - your choice! We maintain a large number
of baits (often 150+) and invite hunters to select the baits necessary to bag their Trophy. Upon choosing the sites, Hunters then
assume the responsibility of keeping them baited as long as they are hunting over them. You will need to furnish your own tree
stands, hunter orange clothing, transportation and firearms. Our facilities are also wheelchair accessible and to this date,
all handicapped Hunters have been successful in harvesting their Trophy.
7 Day / 7 Night – Deluxe Housekeeping Package – Party of 4 or more - $1,475.00 per hunter.
This hunt includes accommodations, pre-baiting, bait, skinning, freezer services, boat, motor and gas.
Also Offering: Ontario Whitetail Deer Hunts
About The Hunt:
We host fewer than 12 Hunters per season, over a 2 week period . Only Bucks may be harvested. The season runs the first two weeks of November. Baiting is allowed and we do take
advantage of the practice; April - November! We provide hunt transportation and in the field
every legal daylight hour. Our hunters generally “sit” or “stalk” a couple hours in the morning,
then walk back to a designated location to meet the guides. Our hunters often “post” around
a variety of woodlots while guides flush out “Whities” through the day. Our whitetail hunts
are conducted on approximately 10,000 acres of flat farmland in the Rainy River District - on
privately owned/leased land. Drive 1 hour into Ontario, Canada. The Whitetail Deer in this agricultural area are heavy bodied, both typical and non-typical racks.
6 Day / 7 Night – Deluxe Guided Hunt Package – Party of 4 or more - $2,353.00 per hunter.
Includes accommodations, meals, baited area, guide for every 2 hunters, hunt transportation
and meat care.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Barry Brown, Phone: 1-807-597-2884 Address: P.O. Box 1766 Atikokan, Ontario Canada POT-1CO
Website: www.brownsclearwaterlodge.com/hunts
Lawrence Bay Lodge Reindeer Lake, Saskatchewan
Specializing In: Trophy Caliber Saskatchewan Moose Hunting
Saskatchewan Moose Hunting:
Owners Randy Engen and his son Phil Engen have been successfully guiding moose hunters and Northern Pike fisherman out of
the Reindeer Lake Camp since 1971. The moose hunting in our area of Saskatchewan has been remarkable the past five years.
Eighty percent of our hunters in the past five years have had the opportunity to take a bull moose. In 2006- 9 out of 13 hunters
bagged their moose and in 2007- 12 hunters took 7 bulls! This kind of success is no accident. We have quality guides, a large
hunting area, access to remote lakes by float planes, and a willingness to relocate hunters to assure success. During your trip,
Hunters may stay out overnight at a tent camp or one of our outpost cabins, although you may return to the main lodge at
night if preferred. We also offer spectacular summer fishing trips and all local flying, food & moose license are included.
We are now offering a 7 Day / 8 Night All Inclusive Fully Guided Trophy Moose Hunt For $6,490.00 per hunter. The accommodations at Lawrence Bay Lodge are all fully modern. Each cabin has its own hot and cold running water, flush toilets, shower,
electricity, and heating stove.
Also Offering: Fantastic Summer and Fall Northern Pike Fishing
Northern Pike Fishing:
Lawrence Bay Lodge is located on Reindeer Lake Saskatchewan (which to many people the best Northern Pike lake in the
world). Reindeer Lake is approximately 180 miles long and 60 miles wide at its widest point. Reindeer Lake has thousands of islands which make for good structure and these islands along with the mainland make for thousands of bays which harbor huge
Northern Pike. Reindeer Lake is simply loaded with large Northern Pike. In 2000 we caught the largest number of big fish ever!
Seventy-five percent of our customers caught fish from 18-35 lb. (40-53 inches). We also had a few over 35 lb. All of the fish are
alive and well thanks to the people that released those monsters. We also have excellent Walleye, Lake Trout and Arctic Grayling
fishing available as well.
Fishing Packages and Rates:
We can accommodate most any group size and length of stay. This is an All Inclusive fishing trip with a memorable stay at the
Lawrence bay Lodge. One of our most popular packages is our 5 day, 6 night trip priced at $2,595.00.
Contact Information: Randy and Phil Engen Phone: 701.262.4560
Address: Box 128 Tolna, ND 58380 Website: www.lawrencebay.com
10
THE
SCENT
CONTROL DEBATE
By Matt Sayer
For the past decade the issue of scent containment in the field has been a hot-button
issue. With the advent and marketing of “scent blocking/absorbing” technologies, an
entire industry has grown around the containment and elimination of scent. Every year
more and more products appear on shelves, in catalogs and are promoted on television
shows. The products obviously sell yet there is still an intense debate pertaining to their
effectiveness. Some even say they are worthless, a complete sham. Recently a lawsuit has
even been filed against a major producer of these products, challenging the company’s
claims of scent reduction.
Most scent containment clothing relies on activated carbon to absorb scent- human
scent being the target. The premise is that carbon fibers absorb and hold various scent
molecules, containing the scent before it is released into the air. It is advertised that
carbon clothing can be recharged by running it through a high heat cycle in the dryer.
The heat allows the carbon fibers to release the absorbed scent molecules, allowing
them to absorb more.
Several studies have been done as to the effectiveness of these products and they have
come up with different conclusions- essentially allowing the debate to continue.
As an avid big game hunter with extensive experience using scent containment products,
I feel the truth, as usual, is somewhere in the middle. When used properly, I feel that
scent elimination clothing and other products are a valuable tool, particularly for the
bow hunter. They will not make you scent free but are an effective tool in helping reduce
in the amount of scent we release into the air. Getting high above the ground, not
smoking, chewing or allowing ourselves to break a sweat are other ways we can help
contain our scent. Touching as little as possible on the way into a stand also helps.
Many people expect too much from carbon clothing and don’t understand its limitations.
The amount of scent a garment can absorb is limited so it is very important to protect
clothing from everyday odors such as getting into the cab of your truck, refueling or
from breakfast. Storing them in plastic bags and putting them on in the field and taking
them off before leaving will help. Recharging often is another way to insure the clothing
is as effective as possible. Keeping your body as clean as possible is another way to cut
down on scent; hair is notorious for holding scent.
There is no way to be entirely “scent free” and you should always hunt the wind.
Unfortunately many factors in the field are out of our control, so reducing the amount
of scent we release into the woods may just buy us that extra ten yards or ten seconds
that we may need to take an animal.
11
Red Rock Ranch
Richardton, North Dakota
Specializing In: Guided Pheasant Hunts
Pheasant Hunting:
Our pheasant hunts are designed with complete customer satisfaction in mind. Our 2,500 acre ranch is home to some of the
best pheasant populations in the state, all of which are wild birds. Once your hunt begins, our guides will bring you to both
hilly and flat land – giving you ample opportunities to shoot birds. Just remember to be ready at all times and watch the dogs
do their job, they’ve been hunting this land for many years and are very fun to watch. Your guide will be right there with you to
help in any way he can, your success is a direct reflection on him so he will take a personal interest in seeing that you get some
shooting. You can expect to walk between 2 – 4 miles per day, people attempting this hunt should be in very good physical
and cardiovascular condition. People with heart conditions or with bad hips, knees or ankles will be accommodated, as we
always need someone to do the blocking/posting. The staff here at Red Rock Ranch is here to make your stay comfortable and
as enjoyable as possible, we are here to make your hunt the most memorable of your life.
We offer both 2, 3 and 4 day hunts, each at $350 per person per day. Included in your package are all meals- which are
prepared by our on site chef, lodging and bird cleaning.
Also Offering: Guided Coyote Hunts
About The Hunt:
Once pheasant hunting has ended for the day, we also offer coyote hunting. The same land
that house the fantastic pheasant hunting is also home to numerous coyote. Electronic calls
are used to lure in these attentive animals, we will set up in an area and start calling – if we
don’t see any coyote within 10-15 minutes, we will move on to another spot. The hilly terrain
and creek bottoms allow numerous places for coyote to hide so we don’t usually have to go
very far to see one. Bring your own favorite rifle and licenses can be picked up nearby.
Coyote hunting is included as a free service in your pheasant hunting package price.
Please call if you want an exclusive coyote hunting package as the price will depend
on the time of year.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Don Tietz, Phone: 218-439-3281,
Address: 23865 250 Street Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, Website: www.huntthenorth.com/redrockranch.html
Granite Springs
Alexandria, South Dakota
(15 minutes from Cabelas) or (45 minutes W. from Sioux Falls SD).
Specializing In: South Dakota Upland Bird & Pheasant Hunting
Pheasant Hunting:
Every day at Granite Springs is like opening day anywhere else. Our Pheasant and Chuckar hunting on 12,000 acres of CRP
grasslands, food plots combined with Rainbow Trout fishing on our private lake allow us to make the memories of a lifetime for
you, or to bring back the hunting excitement of your youth. We like to hunt in small groups of 6-8 hunters over our professionally trained dogs, or bring your own dog. The day can be paced as fast or leisurely as you wish because our experienced staff
members will ensure a carefree hunt as we handle the details and you do the shooting. Noteworthy hunting, fantastic food,
good friends plus finishing each day relaxing by the fire are what await you here at Granite Springs.
Upland Hunt- $375.00 per day, per hunter. Includes: 3 wild pheasants per day, lodging, meals, guides, dogs, trout fishing, local
transportation, kennel use and access to clays range. We also offer raised pheasants or chuckars that are released on our special
preserve of 1000 acres please inquire for prices and limits. Free: Lodging and Meals for Children and Spouses during your stay.
Special Offer:
Book a hunt prior to April 1st and reference Hunt the North to receive a Free box of pheasant shells per day!
Free Lodging and Meals for Children and Spouses during your stay with same room booking. Also Offering: Combination Pheasant / Waterfowl Hunts or a limited number of bow only Whitetail Deer Hunts.
About The Hunt:
During the fall, we also offer a limited number of combo hunts. These are custom hunts for 2-3 hunters per outing. We set
up in well scouted and reserved areas which range from the northern to southern borders of South Dakota. Hunts include all
species of geese, tundra swans and the northern flights of ducks specifically the divers as that’s what we enjoy shooting. We can
customize the hunt for a specific species if desired. These hunts are not for the weak or faint of heart as it’s passion for us and
we will be out in all types of weather in both the fields and boats. Lodging and meals are excellent as we use a combination of
hotels and private lodges as we follow the front of the migration.
Fall Upland and Waterfowl Combo- $1400.00 per day which includes: 3 pheasants per day, limit of waterfowl, lodging, meals,
guides, dogs, local transportation, shells and bird cleaning. Fall Upland and Deer Combo - $1000.00 per day.
Inquire about our, For Couples only hunt Sept. 25th thru the 28th. Host of the NRA’s Woman on Target 2007
and 2008 Upland Hunts. Selected site of the 2009 Spring Grand for the HRC “Hunting Retriever Club, Inc.”
Contact Information: Outfitters: Larry and Brennan Yeo, Phone: 605-239-4404 or 605-940-9613
Address: P.O. Box 5 Alexandria SD, 57311 Website: www.GraniteSpringsSD.com .
12
Beams On The Prairie
Fairbury, Nebraska & North Central,
North Dakota
Specializing In: Fully Guided Spring Snow Goose Hunts
Spring Snow Goose Hunting:
At Beams On The Prairie we offer fantastic spring snow goose hunts in both Nebraska from February through March and
in North Dakota from April through May, each spring. Outfitter Dave Beam has been written up in the popular Wildfowl
Magazine for his superb spring snow goose hunts. In both states we offer two exciting, proven strategies to harvest your
wary spring snow geese:
SET UP 1: You will hunt exclusively over several hundred snow and blue goose floater decoys out of permanent blinds
set up on strategic spring roost ponds. Our big water snow goose spreads are an extremely effective method of hammering
wary spring birds!
SET UP 2: We also offer the traditional spring field hunt where you will be hunting out of high quality lay out blinds, over a
massive spread of several thousand decoys. These hunts can be combined during your stay to ensure continued success and
added enjoyment to the overall hunt.
Hunt Package and Rates: You may choose to hunt as many days as you wish. Three day hunt packages are the most popular. Our standard rate is $200.00 per gun, per day. That includes a fully guided daily hunt. We will also make reservations for you
at the nearest motel and meals are available at the area restaurants. Lodging and Meals Are Not Included in your hunting fee.
Also Offering: North Dakota Fall Waterfowl Hunts
About The Hunt:
We also specialize in making your waterfowl hunting trip to North Dakota an exciting and memorable hunting experience. We
offer a wide variety of options that many waterfowl hunters have never experienced before. Below is a list of the hunts that can
be arranged:
OPTION 1: Field waterfowl hunts. This hunt is tailored to the hunter who enjoys spending the day hunting over large
spreads of quality decoys in lay out blinds over harvested grain fields for premium Canada goose, Snow goose and Mallard
duck hunting.
OPTION 2: Big water/pothole duck hunting. This hunt is designed for the traditional duck hunter who enjoys hunting ducks
over water. We can customize both diver and puddle duck hunts for all species of ducks in the heart of North Dakota’s pothole
country. We also offer specialty hunts for Sandhill Cranes and Swans- Both over decoys. Choose any one of our waterfowl hunts
and you will be in for a real treat!
Hunt Package and Rates: Our fall waterfowl hunts are the same rate as our spring snow goose hunts: $200.00 per gun, per
day for as many days as you wish to hunt. Again meals and lodging are Not Included in your daily hunt fee but we can make
arrangements for your lodging as needed.
Contact Information: Outfitter: Dave Beam Phone: 701-282-0456
Address: P.O. Box 903 West Fargo, ND 58078 Website: www.beamsontheprairie.com
Waterfowl Specialists
Mound City, Missouri
Specializing In: Spring Snow Goose Hunts
About The Hunt:
HUNT THE NO LIMIT, UNPLUGGED GUN, 1,000,000 GOOSE SPRING MIGRATION, with an outfitter that has been one of
the longest commercial waterfowl operations in the Mid-West. Started in 1990 by Avery Pro Staffer, Scott Robinson, Waterfowl Specialists has a proven track record of nearly 20 years commercial waterfowl operations, not to mention Scott’s 31 years
of Mid-West field experience will show in the details of each hunt. If you book a hunt with Scott you will see why he and his
guides are the leaders in the field, with a lodge located in the NW corner of Missouri and one in SW Michigan, they not only
follow the birds North to South and back again; but from season to season, year after year. To look for success, look no further
than Waterfowl Specialists.
Michigan waterfowl hunts start at $125 per gun, Missouri spring snow goose hunts start at $175 per gun per day, pkgs. Call
now to advance book your 09’ SPRING SNOW GOOSE HUNT, asap.
Hunter Testimonials: More references can be viewed on our web site,
“I have hunted with guides in almost all 50 states, for all North American waterfowl, and this is
the best guided hunt I have ever been on in my lifetime!” 2/23-26/07, Greg said, to my guides
and many guests standing around the cleaning station- For the record his best day was 54 or
something I think, and his worst was 2 or 3 and he is a serious waterfowler, who does not exaggerate, and who has been on an unbelievable amount of guided hunts, even with such a low day,
he still was in awe of this 4 day averages and hunt. We are very appreciating of his thoughts and
obviously acknowledge his sheer genius, seriously we do, he is one brilliant cookie in our eyes!
–Gregory Jordon 02/2007
“I want to thank you for the awesome opportunity and hunts you allowed me over the Spring
Goose Season. What an absolute blast I had with you and your guys! It was truly the opportunity
of a lifetime and I will never forget it. The things that I learned, the work that I did, & the birds
that I killed was awesome, not to mention just plain fun.”
–Ray Comer 03/2007
Contact Information: Scott Robinson Phone: 269.760.6219
Address: 1030 East Vine Street Kalamazoo , MI 49001 Website: www.snowgoosespecialist.com & www.waterfowlspecialist.com
13
Retriever Performance Events
and Why You Should Care
By Professional Trainer Greg Ye
I’ve heard it all! “I don’t need a dog that
good” or “Field trial dogs are too hyper for
my needs” or “Trial dogs are too expensive.”
Well, let me explain why all hunters should
pay attention to trial dogs.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers two
performance event programs for retrievers,
which are Field Trials and Hunt Tests. Field
Trials are competition driven and the dogs
do work that is incredibly difficult over huge
distances. The first time observer may find
these events fascinating but of little relevance
to their world of hunting. As a note, I’d be
honored to spend a day in the field with an
accomplished trial dog.
Hunt Tests by comparison gained their start
by hunters interested in game conservation.
At first, hunt tests were designed to meet
the needs of hunters and were conceived
“by hunters, for hunters and of hunters.”
Hunt tests are non-competitive and give the
hunter an objective basis to determine what
to expect in the field. Over time, professional
trainers have influenced hunt tests to such
a degree that hunt tests have become very
demanding and require a very trained
response from both dog and handler.
Why does any of this matter to the
average hunter or family? I’ll tell you why;
Performance retrievers demonstrate routinely
what retrievers were bred to do. They are the
cream of the crop and are owned by only
the most devoted folks to retriever genetics.
Performance retrievers are bright, out-going,
trainable, healthy, sound, birdy, intelligent,
friendly and proven. Their offspring are
predictably excellent candidates for a
long and fruitful life of hunting and family
devotion.
There is a second reason for hunters to
explore performance events. I can guarantee
that the average hunter will be awestruck by
the experience! Try a hunt test first. The folks
are friendly and eager to share with new
comers. You will see young dogs at the Junior
Level doing single marked retrieves on land
and water and then coming briskly home
to the handler and tenderly giving up birds.
You’ll see Master Dogs marking multiple bird
falls and then retrieving the birds unaided
14
and independently only to come back to
the handler to pick up a bird or two they
didn’t see by taking precise direction to the
bird from the handler. Make sure you bring
your family. The kids will get an education in
canine potential that may spark a life long
passion. You’ll walk away thinking, “That’s
what I got to have!” So the next time your
buddy is bragging about his dog, you can
say, “Well, can he …”
To find events in your area, the easiest way
is to go on-line. Visit Entry Express at www.
entryexpress.com. The site is used primarily
for entering dogs in performance events but
you’ll find a calendar of events. Each event
has a “premium” which describes the type
of event, location, times, etc. Once you’ve
found an event to attend, consider it like
going to the beach. Bring lawn chairs, coolers,
etc. One word of caution: Do not wear white
clothing! White is very distracting to dogs
and handlers. Wear clothing that is dark or
appropriate for an outdoor occasion.
Hunters need to explore performance
events. Not only will you receive first hand
experience of what a retriever is expected to
do, but you’ll start to become familiar with
sound retriever genetics which will lead you
to the dog of your dreams! If you are in the
market for a pup, ask around and collect
information. Who knows, maybe
you’ll discover an off-season sport
that the whole family can enjoy
and participate in and make Ol’fido
more than just a 10 month couch
potato. In any case, I would rather
go to a hunt test than clean out
the garage!
For more information
On Professional Retriever
Training Services Contact:
Ten Mile Kennels (see listing on page 15)
Trainer: Greg Ye
Address: 1182 140th Ave
New Richmond, WI 54017
Phone: 715-246-7040
Website: www.tenmilekennels.com
Ten Mile Kennels
New Richmond, Wisconsin
Specializing In: Professional Retriever Training
About The Trainer:
Greg and Karen Ye have over 20 years of Retriever Training Experience. Since “Going Pro” in 1997, they have developed
over 16 dogs that have achieved placements in Licensed Field Trials and over 40 dogs that have earned Hunt Test Recognition,
mostly at the Master Level. During this same period, we have built well over 250 Reliable Hunting Partners out of most retriever
breeds and temperaments. Any Poodle owners looking for training?
Services Provided:
Ten Mile Kennels is a Full Time/Full Service training facility. Our goal is to provide you and your dog with a quality training
experience. We train 12 months per year; we spend the winter in Texas to maintain training continuity and to offer gun dog
owners full service no matter the weather. Our basic program includes obedience, trained retrieve, collar conditioning and
experience retrieving live shot birds over land and water in a typical hunting environment.
Contact Information: Trainer: Greg Ye Phone: 715-246-7040
Address: 1182 140th Ave New Richmond, WI 54017 Website: www.tenmilekennels.com
Make sure you mention Hunt The North.com when you contact this trainer
Luttrell Kennels
Clark, South Dakota
Specializing In: Professional Retriever Training / Started Retrievers
About The Trainer/Breeder:
Head Trainer John Luttrell has been working with the top retrievers in the country for over a decade and has the experience and
knowledge to handle challenging dogs as well as offering the avid hunter a trained companion that can reach all desired levels
of training.
Services Provided:
Luttrell Kennels is a quality dog training facility. From the design of the kennel building, care of the dogs, to the training programs - no details have been overlooked. Owner and trainer John Luttrell will work with you and your dog to meet and exceed
your needs. Whether your dog is here for gun dog training or preparing for retriever hunt tests, building a solid foundation of
obedience, collar conditioning and force-fetching is essential. We mesh the dog’s natural abilities and trained behaviors to produce a finished hunting partner for upland or waterfowl hunting.
Contact Information: John Luttrell Address: 906 1st Ave. W. PO Box 89 Clark, SD 57225
Phone: 605-532-4142 Email: luttrell@itctel.com Website: www.luttrellkennels.com
Make sure you mention Hunt The North.com when you contact this trainer
Greenmeadows Retrievers
St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin
Specializing In: Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever Pups Bred to Hunt
About The Breeder:
For over 20 years, Greenmeadows’ goal has been to produce exceptional Golden and Labrador retrievers. Through selective
breeding, we strive to produce competitive performance dogs and hunting dogs with desire and trainability. Our senior golden
stud, Counterpoint’s Captain MH WCX OS became and GRCA Outstanding Sire with many offspring earning titles in several
areas. He is also the sire of many outstanding hunting dogs and family dogs. When breeding litters, we look for classic conformation, proven pedigrees and good health. All breeding dogs have health clearances.
Services Provided:
Puppies and Stud Service - Started dogs sometimes available Dark red golden puppies and Lab pups in all three colors
Contact Information: Name: Wendy Spangler Phone: 715-483-5217 or 715-225-0973
Address: 2118 150th Ave St. Croix Falls, WI Website: www.greenmeadowsretrievers.com
Make sure you mention Hunt The North.com when you contact this breeder
Dreamcatcher Retrievers
St. Paul, MN & New Richmond, WI
Specializing in: AKC/CKC Chocolate Labrador Puppies and Stud Service.
About The Breeder:
Since 1992 we have specialized in Chocolate Labradors and are one of the few breeders of Chocolate Labs in the world, whose
program includes only AKC Master Hunter accomplishments/titles in the first generation. Health clearances, OFA,CERF & CNM
are published on line. All dogs are extensively hunted and trialed throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Sires/Litters have produced: 10 AKC Master Hunter Competitors; UKC Hunting Retriever Champion; NAHRA Intermediate and
Master Competitors; AKC Senior Hunter competitors ( youngest titled at 17.5 months); 10 Junior Hunter titles (one at 6 months
old); 2006 Canadian High Point Derby dog; Master National, Open and Qualified All Age dogs and Derby Competitors.
Services Provided:
Stud service from two AKC Master Hunters, both OFA Excellent and CNM and CERF clear, with field trial accomplishments.
Puppies: One litter/year; CERF, OFA, CNM Guaranteed. Our pups are home whelped and raised, socialized and intelligent.
They will bring home the birds, upland and waterfowl. Available to qualified individuals.
Contact Information: Breeders: Mike Conroy and Bill Domeier Phone: 651-774-7007
Address: 962 Arcade Street St. Paul, MN 55106 Website: www.mnceramic.com/dogs
Make sure you mention Hunt The North.com when you contact this breeder
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the outfitter of the year

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