Blog Entries

Jason - A matched set of Sheds

amaro_jason@hotmail.com — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Hey Guys....

�� I am still burning the boot leather scouting out new areas for Coues deer.� I have been hanging cameras in different types of areas like creek bottoms and areas where I have seen scrapes in the past.� Unfortunately, my success has been pretty limited as far as trail cam pictures have gone but I feel good about my effort because at least I know where the deer aren't. :)� Last year I hung camera's at water sources at I was able to find deer but once the rut kicked everything changes and I was left chasing scrapes.� This year my goal was to stay off the water sources and learn new areas.� As far as my physical scouting goes it has been pretty good.� I have found several really nice sheds and I have glassed up or jumped several Coues deer does.� I have found a pocket of deer that I am going to key in on.� The big challege now is to wait until a few weeks before the hunt and cover some country looking for scrapes.� Once I find a scrape I need to hang a trail cam on it and see what happens.

On one of my last scouting trips I found this matched set.� They go about 75 inches which doesn't sound that great but remember P&Y for Coues deer is 65 inches..

�

Take Care

[...]

2008 Elk Hunting Highlights

dan@sportsmansfitness.com — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Friends, please check out my little highlight reel from this fall's hunts. We hunted ID and MT and had a great time. I can't wait for next year and I will get back to posting fitness tid bits as the season comes to end shortly.

Peace to the Nations

{youtube}6DT88AldlvE{/youtube}

Matt-DIY Antelope

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

�

DIY Montana Antelope

Montana is a HUGE state and it can be incredibly boring to drive across if you don't have something to think about.� This year I made the drive with antelope on the brain!�

After successfully drawing one of the 560 non-resident archery only tags, I was excited for the season and opportunity to chase some speed goats with my bow.� The tag in my pocket was valid for any hunting region 3 through 7.� I had one bonus point and used it to draw a 9000-00 series tag which allowed me to hunt from August 15th to November 9th.�

The deadline for the antelope drawing is by June 2 and so one hour before the deadline I was submitting my request online.� There are other hunt series that allow archery and rifle but the archery portion for these tags is September 6th to October 11th. Check out the Montana FWP website for all the seasons and changes to the archery seasons as they changed this year, http://fwp.mt.gov/hunting/default.html.� I am also on their mailing list to receive the hunting regulations every year which are great to have in hand when you are in the field.

I determined where to go by using the Montana FWP website and Eastmans' Bowhunting Journal (EBJ) to narrow down which region I was going to hunt in.� After looking at a map of the antelope distribution and reading the May/June 2008 EBJ issue, I determined a region that would be the target where I would direct my car come August 14th.� The archery success rates for this region looked good to me and would hopefully be worth the drive.� Now I just needed to know which dirt road I was going to drive down and where I was going to hunt.

�

The Montana FWP website has a great Hunt Planner portion to their website, and you can get great statistical information on success rates for drawing your tag and harvest information.� I used this website, EBJ and advice from a friend who lives in Montana to select my hunting district.� I looked on Google Earth until my eyes were blood shot and found a few places that had potential and were on public land.� There was also going to be a few areas that I could hunt on private land with the help of landowners through Montana's Block Management program.� My hat off to the landowners who allow hunters access to the land they own without paying a fee.�

I started the drive on the 14th of August and made a quick stop to pick up the 2008 Hunting Access Guide hot of the press.� This is the Block Management guide for Montana and has maps and access information on where to hunt on private land with the permission of the landowners.� It is a great partnership between hunters and landowners and one that I will be using more in my future hunts.�

I hunted mainly on BLM land open to the public and didn't see but two old farmers who must have thought I was crazy driving my 2000 Mercury Sable down the old dirt roads chasing antelope with a bow.� I also hunted on some Block Management areas.

For me I had to keep the cost of this trip as low as possible so my plan was to hunt on public land or block management areas so I didn't have to pay a trespassing fee.� Another item I did without was a Montana decoy.� I also don't like sitting still for very long and decided to use the spot and stalk method, which was a good choice as there were lots of waterholes all full due to the wet spring and summer.

�

On the first day of the hunt I had 2 stalks that put me within 60-70 yards of a buck.� One buck I hunted was by himself and was a mature P&Y buck with lots of mass.� After making a stalk to within 200 yards I waited 4 hours as we both took naps.� He finally got up and walked over a ridge and I ran up the draw and guessed that he was going to the right on the other side.� As I was crawling over the ridge I spotted him 100 yards away but to my left.� I dropped back down the ridge and ran a few hundred yards to get in front of him.� As I crawled back over the ridge I had positioned myself in front but he spotted me after a few minutes.

Antelope have 20 power eyesight and this big buck was using all of it.� He ran off and I didn't find him until the next morning when I again spooked him out of a draw.� This time I followed him and after a mile or so he came to a fence.� Antelope don't like jumping fences like whitetail do.� They will but as a last resort.� I was on a ridge that ran perpendicular to the fence line and I positioned myself on the ridge 60 yards from the fence.� As the buck made his way down to my position the wind really started to pick up.

The buck would walk 10 feet and stop and look across the fence into the valley below.� Finally he made it to within 75 yards and stopped looking away from me.� I should have drawn at this point but didn't.� I let him advance another 10 yards at which time he stopped and instead of looking out into the valley looked right at me in the tall CRP grass.� I drew my bow and he bolted and then stopped at what I estimated was 70 yards.� My pin was just settling for the shot when he bolted again this time to safety across the fence.�

I was so disappointed!!� This buck was huge and it had been the perfect funnel to drive him to my position.� I learned a lot from this opportunity and really should have filled my tag but that is hunting.� Although I saw plenty of antelope, I didn't have that type of opportunity the rest of the hunt.� It was a long drive home to say the least and I still have that antelope burned in my brain.

�

Here are a few items that I learned on this DIY hunt that I wanted to pass along.�

-Purchase an antelope Montana Decoy.� I have used one before and think it would have worked great a few times on this hunt as the topography doesn't always give you a nice deep draw to make your stalk.� The use of a decoy could have given me a few more seconds at times to draw and aim.

-Take a good spotting scope and tripod.� I was using a Swarovski spotting scope on a $15 tripod, not a good combination when the wind is blowing.� A spotting scope is a must and this glass is the best I have used.� It saved me many hours hiking towards does but when you don't have a tripod with a good head it can get old fast as you try to adjust and then re-adjust on your target.�

-Try to find a taxidermist in the area that you could call and ask about weather conditions and winter survival.� Then make it a point to stop by and meet them so you can start to build a relationship.� If I would have called ahead and talked to one I would have found out that every water hole was full due to the wet summer.� This could have been useful information if I was planning on setting up a blind on a water hole.

-Buy some knee pads and gloves that cactus won't go through as you will be crawling through it if you are using the�spot and stalk method.�

-Mentally I dropped out of this hunt after missing the second opportunity at the big buck.� Be prepared to have stalks that fail.� I think I had the mindset that I was only going to get one good stalk and after I wasn't successful I was in the dumps.� Realize that you will have multiple stalk opportunities each day if you are in a good area and work hard.

-Practice shooting in the wind.� Montana and Wyoming are two very windy states and if you are hunting antelope you better be prepared to shoot in the wind.� I practiced shooting in the wind many times this summer and learning to hold your bow somewhat steady is a challenge that you don't want to learn when you have that chance on your perfect stalk.

-Listen to the antelope trilogy series again on BowCast!!!

If anyone has any questions on this hunt or wants me to expand in any area, please let me know and I will do a follow up blog entry.� As for the season... I never made it back over to Montana but will be putting in for the drawing next year.

[...]

Matt-2009 Bows-Hoyt

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

� Hoyt AlphaMax 32 inch

Although I was not able to attend Hoyt Night, I was able to shoot their new bow the AlphaMax 32 inch at my local pro shop.� I really wish I had the opportunity to shoot this bow set up with accessories and test it out at a few� 3-D shoots and with broadheads in the field.� But I will gladly shoot it at the pro shop and enjoy the new features that Hoyt has shot into this new�bow.

�

One thing that is a priority for me is my equipment has to be backcountry bombproof.� My first impression with the new Hoyt AlphaMax 32 inch was the thickness of the limbs compared to other bows with split limbs and the fact that they are built to withstand 1,000 dry-fires.� Those are great standards but only if they can help provide the power needed to the arrow on a consistent basis and they did just that when I shot it.

�

The main power for this bow comes from the cams, which are a new modular adjustable XTR cam & �.� I found the draw cycle on this bow to be unlike the PSE bows as there was not a big valley right at the end of the draw cycle.� With the set up I was shooting, the draw cycle was aggressively smooth with a small valley towards the end.

�

At full draw this bow balances very well in your hand, no canting, but one thing I would change is the grip.� For me I like a grip that is thin like the PSE or BowTech as I have found that a grip like these will sit in my hand more consistently and aren't prone to rolling.� This is why I don't like Mathew's grips.� Hoyt's grip is better than Mathew's grips but for me still needs to be slimmer and I would choose the side plates.

�

The weight of this bow is 3.9 pounds and Hoyt has done a great job of keeping it under 4 pounds by machining weight from the riser, among other things.� The riser still has that unique bridge that is behind the grip and this year the riser forks more at the top and bottom.� Close inspection of the riser will reveal complex machining covered by a Realtree APG HD finish.� The AlphaMax has a 7" brace height which might take away some speed but overall adds to the consistency of this bow.

I was impressed with the minimal amount of noise and vibration in this bow.� I think most of that is the result of the Alpha Shox on the limbs, String Shox on their new Fuse string and the string stop.�

�

Overall, I think the AlphaMax is a great bow that will appeal to many bowhunters due to the brace height, weight, lack of noise and vibration, and toughness.� With all the hype around speed, and this bow published at 321 fps, I wouldn't overlook this great performing 32inch ATA bow based on that one factor�as there is a lot more to consider.

I have shot the new BowTechs and will be shooting the new Mathews in the next few days.� More important its still hunting season so get out and HUNT!

Matt

[...]

Dave - Glassin' Up Some Sheds

daveedge@bowcast.com — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

I�hope everyone is having a great season, I have spent the last week guiding my friends from California we killed 2 does and a spike buck.� This blog is about a pair of elk sheds I found a�week before my huntin' crew got here.� I was up scouting with my buddy Charles. We��were sitting on a rock shelf glassing for elk, ��I had made 2 or 3 passes glassing when I found the sheds in some very thick oak brush.� I thought they were old bones I told Charles to look he said they looked like elk sheds so we hiked across the canyon.� When we walked up on these sheds we were�in �shock neither of us had ever found a set of sheds this big.� We have spent 4 years horn huntin and our dreams of finding a pair of monster elk sheds finally happened.� I hope to find a big bull in a week.� My dad and I still have elk tags. ��
� shoot straight � dave [...]

Matt-2009 Bows-PSE

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

2009 PSE Bows

I hope everyone is having a great whitetail season and possibly some late season elk.� I will be chasing both the next two weeks and keep you posted on my efforts.� During the next few weeks I am going to try and shoot as many of the new 2009 bows as possible and give you my thoughts�on how they compare.��

Wednesday I went to my local pro shop and was able to shoot the new 2009 PSE bows.� The sales rep was there and discussed with me all the new aspects of these bows.� This was the first time I had shot any of the new split limb PSE bows and I have to say that I was very impressed with some of the aspects of these bows.

The three bows that�I�was most impressed with�were the X-Force GX, X-Force Dream Season GX, and X-Force Super Short GX.� All three of these bows have the same GX Hybrid Cam System.� Its one of the most unique cams I have ever seen due to its shape.� The bows also come with an America's Best Premium bowstring�with strategically placed�speed nocks.� The riser has a Vibracheck Backstop string stop and the grip on these bows are very ergonomic, fitting perfectly in your hand.��

The Super Short GX was the first bow that I shot and my 6 month old son is taller than this bow!� I'm sure most of you have seen this bow and I was very impressed with how it shot.� All three of these bows had 60 pound limbs on them and the draw cycle on the Super Short GX was definitely a little different as the cams sit at a different angle on the limbs because the limbs are not flexed/loaded as�much�like they are on the X-Force and the Dream Season.� The draw cycle is a hard/aggressive wall with a very short valley at the end�and one that I could get use to.� I currently shoot a Drenalin so the draw cycles on these PSE bows were a change to the more consistent draw cycle�that I am use to with my�Mathews.

The Dream Season and the X-Force had a�very similar draw cycle.� Same axle to�axle, 32.5 inches but�the X-Force has a shorter 6 inch brace height compared to the Dream Season's 7 inch.� This shorter brace height on the X-Force pushes the arrow a little faster than the Dream�Season at a stated 352 fps compared to 342 fps.� The�draw cycle on these bows was noticeably different than the Super Short.� They still had that aggressive wall but the drop into the valley was not as drastic making for a smoother draw cycle.�

With the speed these bows are pushing arrows I was very impressed with the insignificant amount of hand shock coming through the riser.� The grip is very comfortable and these bows come with Mossy Oak Treestand camo.� They look and feel great.

I also shot the Bow Madness XS and for the price of around $500 this bow is a great value.� The one word that I would use to describe this bow, SMOOTH.� This bow looks very unusual, compared to the X-Force series,�due to the 9 inch nearly parallel limbs on a straight riser.� But don't let the looks fool you as the short 28.5 inch axle to axle and 7� 3/8 inch brace height still push your arrow at 316 fps.

I am waiting to shoot the new Mathews next week when it comes out and will also be shooting the Hoyt and BowTech bows shortly.� I will write a blog on these bows and let you know what I think.� Good luck in the field!

Matt

[...]

Badlands and Snow Camo - Picture

aroney@bowcast.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

I am hoping I don't need this pack in Montana next week :-). Awesome picture that was sent to me by Badlands - I hope they put it an upcoming catalog - it's an awesome pic! Click on it to enlarge the picture.

Aneal

{multithumb}

Video - 2009 Bowtech Admiral

aroney@bowcast.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

I had the chance to shoot the 2009 Bowtech Admiral, Captain, and 82nd Airborne a couple of weeks ago at Sportsman's Warehouse.� All great shots - anyone in the market for a new 2009 bow should definitely make the rounds on the Bowtech line.

One of our Bowtech contacts sent me the following video on the admiral.� I thought I would post here for you all to take a peek at.� Has anyone else shot the admiral?� What do you all think?

{youtube}Y0J4PFPJOGA{/youtube}

[...]

Joe - Taking Quality Photos - Part 1

joeedge@bowcast.com — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Taking Quality Photos

Part 1: The Support Shots

At 14 years old I sat at our computer desk, trading emails with a predominant western bowhunter. I asked him, if there was one thing I could do to get the ball rolling with starting a career in the hunting industry, he said, "Take as many pictures as you can, the more you take the better you'll get. When you have pictures, you have proof". It hit hard because I knew that's what I was missing. You can go on all the hardcore hunts you want, but if you don't have proof, all your stories are, are stories; just like everybody else's. From then on, I started snapping away, but not after my family purchased me a digital camera. This is the best gift I have ever received, because from then on, whether there was meat in the pack or not, I brought home trophies and memories every time I went afield.

�

The first thing I would do is purchase a digital camera...even if you can't afford much; get a camera with the most megapixels you can afford. The more megapixels, the more pleasing the pictures will be. A thing to look for is a digital that has a nice size screen for instant review. This allows you to see immediately what pictures, however in the beginning stages of your picture taking, save them all, good and bad, to review, and help yourself improve on for later.

Now, as any aspiring photographer I enrolled in class, through my school, that taught the compositional aspects of the perfect photo. Although much of it didn't pertain to actual hunting, even outdoor photography, it helped me with establishing what was good, and what could immediately meet the bottom of a trashcan. This is the second suggestion I would make, is to find some time of Photography 101 type of class. Although you might not understand it right away, you'll be able to correlate every bit of information you learn with everything you want to photograph in the future. This will also teach you to correctly critique your photos, and be able to take better ones based upon your building knowledge.

The 2 main things compositionally to make sure your pictures have;

1) Subject - Establish a clear and prominent subject. The worst case is you don't have a subject; this leaves the person viewing the picture in a confused state of what to look at, not good. The next to worst case is that you have a multiple subjects...this divides your picture, and therefore the viewer will not truly "see" the whole image. Once you have a subject it gives the photo a direction, it can be small or huge, but until you establish a subject, you won't have anything mind-blowing.

2) Rule of Thirds - The rule of thirds is clearly defined by the example below. The whole idea is to put that clear subject you just established in one of the thirds but never right in the middle. Putting something directly in the middle creates "static", that's when the photo loses all its interest. By putting them in the other boxes you make for a much more interesting photo, as well as something that has true composition and depth, very important things in photography.

Once you have a good digital camera, and understand some of the beginner's composition info, you have to know what the type of support photos you need to have a story through photos. The first thing you should look for is something YOU find interesting...this gets you started. That way you can round up a bunch of pictures that you can use as memories from the hunt. Stuff like camp photos, photos of your hunting buddies, your gear, and yourself fit this niche.

The next sets of support photo's you want to grab are things that people who weren't there would like to see. This fills in the holes about the hunt for people who aren't at your side. Take pictures of you glassing, wallows or trails, views from the treestand or blind, where you shot your animal from, blood trail, maybe even a picture of you "punchin' your tag", or you packing out that trophy with the sun at your back. This give the viewers the in-depth look into what the hunt was all about, how it went down and the highlights of the trip.

The last thing you need to capture is the fill shots. Once you have the two types of photos above which satisfy your memories and creates those for those who weren't there. The final piece is to get the pictures that fill in the blanks and allow you to create a story through pictures. This will include pictures of you loading, and during travel, setting up camp, or shooting in between hunts...all the things that everybody knows that happens, but usually don't take pictures of; fresh backstraps off the BBQ, pictures of the whole hunting crew together, your hunting rig...

The main thing is, take as many pictures as you can, and you'll learn quickly what you want, and what you don't; what is good, and what garbage is. The most important thing is to "think" photos. Whenever you get that feeling like, "Man, that would be a cool picture," take it! You can never take to many pictures, and remember that when you do you'll never come home empty handed!

Keep it in the pocket-

Joe Cima

[...]

Matt-Paper Tuning Part 1

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

�

Part 1-Making a Paper Tuner

I am still working on building my home bow shop like I'm sure many of you are.� There is a great PodCast, episode #53, on what tools and supplies you will need to start your own home bow shop.� One of the items missing from my shop was a paper tuner.� I have tried many times to quickly tune my bow shooting a piece of paper taped to my ladder rungs.� NOT a good idea and one I would NOT recommend as I put a few holes in the wall of my basement and was out a few arrows. �This blog entry will show you how you can make your own paper tuner by simply going to your local hardware and grocery store and spending around $30.

I know there are many different paper tuner designs�on the market and you have all probably seen one at your local pro shop so feel free to alter this design to adapt to your own specifications such as height and construction materials.� The main goal is to have the right type of paper and a tuner that will hold the paper tight so that you get clean crisp tears when you shoot through it.� I will be doing another blog shortly on how to use this paper tuner.

Construction Materials

You can purchase these materials at any Lowes, Home Depot, or plumbing/hardware supplies store.

-3 pieces of 1" schedule 40 plumbing pipe 10' long

-1 piece of 3/4" schedule 40 plumbing pipe 24" long

-6 �1" elbows 90 degrees

-4� 1" Ts

-2� 1"Ts with the leg of the T being 3/4"

-1 roll of freezer paper

-PVC cement

-Tools- tape, marker, saw, rasp or knife to nock down edges after cutting

Step 1-

Cut the 1" schedule 40 into the following dimensions;

8 pieces 24" long,

2 pieces 20" long,

2 pieces �46" long,

and 2 pieces 2" long.�

If you are tall/short and want to increase/decrease the height of your paper tuner then add or subtract�from the 46" measurement.

Cut the 3/4" pipe 24" long.

Clean with a knife or rasp the edges that were cut.

Step 2-

The base is made of all 24" pieces from the 1" pipe.� You want to glue this together on a flat surface so that all 6 joints are making contact with the floor.� Start with the two Ts and�glue a 24" piece on either end.� When gluing with the pvc cement, lightly cover the end of the pipe and the inside of the fitting and twist together.� After the two long sides are complete, glue the 90 degree elbows and then the connecting 24" ends making sure it stays flat and is not tourqued.

Step 3-

The sides are next and they can be cut to the necessary height.� I am 5' 11" and made mine so that I am usually shooting in the middle of the paper at full draw.� Take the 46" pieces and glue a T to one end.� Then glue the 2" piece� of the 1" schedule 40 to the other end of the T.� The last set of Ts are the ones with a 3/4" opening on the�leg�that will hold the pipe that the�paper is on.� Glue these Ts to each of the remaining portion of the 2" pipe.�

Make sure and align the holes!

After the Ts are glued and aligned, glue in the 20" pieces, continuing the side of the paper tuner.� Finally, glue a 90 degree elbow to the top of the 20" piece making sure that it aligns with the two Ts below.�

Don't glue any 24" pieces together on the upright portion of the tuner so that you can take off the paper and turn the top bar to roll up the excess paper.

Step 4

The 24" piece of 3/4" schedule 40 will go through the center of the freezer paper.�

�

Place the piping for the sides in the Ts on the base and attach the two sides with the three 24" pieces, leaving the top until last.� Don't glue the 90 degree elbows to the top horizontal 24" piece as you can roll the paper with it as you start to use it.

Step 5

String the paper behind the bottom 1" bar and then take it to the top 1" bar.� Tape it to the bar the length of the paper.� You can either cut and tape it each time you need a new piece or just twist the top bar and roll up the used paper.� You might need to use a small piece of tape on either side of the paper on the bottom bar to keep the paper tight.

Step 6

Place a target 6' behind the paper tuner to allow your fletching to clear and start shooting and�tuning.

Step 7

Read my upcoming blog, Paper Tuning Part 2, to learn how and use the paper tuner you just built.�

[...]

Matt-MSR Hyperflow Gear Review

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 01:00:00 +0100

�

Gear Review- MSR Hyperflow

I will be doing a number of gear reviews in my blog and this one�covers the MSR Hyperflow water filter.� I�will be posting a few more gear reviews in the coming months as I�evaluate some of the new gear I used this season.�

Growing up I was introduced to backpacking at a young age.� We would filter our water from the alpine lakes for cooking but drink straight from the mountain springs and small streams.� I never once�got sick�and up until this year I have never carried a water filter on a backcountry hunt.� I�hunt near streams or springs that have a very low risk of containing harmful amounts of protozoa, bacteria, and viruses; however, it only takes one bad water source and�I could have gotten sick from any of these�disease-causing microorganisms. �I consider myself lucky that I have never gotten sick.� Weight and space were also a factor as I didn't want to pack the extra weight of my backpacking water filter, the MSR Miniworks EX, and I always carried backup iodine water tablets in my hunting pack.

This year I started hunting some new areas and I didn't want to worry about the water quality or where I would have to get it from.� I knew MSR was coming out with a new lightweight filter so I waited until they hit the shelf and purchased one after looking it over in the store and talking to the sales representative who had used one.� I discussed with him the concerns I had of clogging and durability which were the main complaints I had been reading about online and he reassured me that I would have no problems.

My first weekend of archery season this year was a 3 day solo bivy hunt where I put the Hyperflow to the test to see if it truly deserved a place in my Badlands.� I evaluated it on size and weight, ease of use, flow rate, and clogging.� I will discuss each of these factors and rate them on a scale of 1-10.

This filter is light on the scale and I gave it a 9 on size and weight.� This filter is the size of a small bike pump at 7 x 3.5 inches and weighs only 7.4 ounces!� I found it to be very easy to pack in the little pouch provided and it was not an item that took up unnecessary space in my Badlands.� This is one of the biggest benefits as size and ounces are critical when trying to keep your pack under 35 pounds for a 3 day hunt like I was.� To keep the weight down more I eliminated the velcro straps on top of the pre-filter and don't pack the quick connect bottle adapter.� After using this filter on a few hunts I don't ever think the Miniworks EX will hit the trail again as it is 16 ounces.

To use this filter is quick and painless so I pumped out a 9.5 on ease of use.� There is a clean side cover for the outlet spout which is to protect the spout from contamination.� After quickly removing the cover, you can either use the quick connect bottle adapter or pump right into your hydration bag like I did.� Then simply place the pre-filter into the cleanest water available and start pumping like you would with a bike pump.�

�

Clean side outlet is what I am holding in my hand.

I used a two inch piece of the tubing and the Camelback Hydrolink filter adapter which allows you to quickly remove your bite valve and connect the filter.� After bleeding the line, I could simply pump my hydration bag full without the hassle of unpacking and then repacking.� Since my hydration bag is one of the heaviest items in my pack I keep it against my back and in the main compartment.� Before I had this filter, I had to unpack everything that was organized around my hydration bag, pull it completely out of my pack, and then try to fill it up in a spring or creek without filling it full of pine needles and leaves from the brush or water.� Now I simply attach the filter to my hydration line, keep my backpack on, fill it up to the desired level, reattach the bite valve, and continue hunting.

If you don't have a filter adapter then you can also use the quick connect bottle adapter.� This connects to the filter on the clean side and screws on most hydration bags or Nalgene type water bottles.

This filter doesn't drip it rips so I gave it a 9.5 in flow rate.� It comes with a pre-filter that floats on the water and has a large amount of surface area that provides an ample water supply.� This is evident by the approximate 20 strokes per liter giving it an approximate�3 liter per minute flow rate.� I would count my pumps so that I could estimate how much water I had transported to my hydration bag and know when to stop.� In comparison the Miniworks EX has a 1 liter per minute flow rate, a substantial difference.� This pre-filter will stop the larger debris from clogging the main hollow fiber filter and, just as manufactures always advise, I would try to place it in the cleanest water available to maximize the life of the filter.

�

One thing I did was to remove the velcro straps that are on top of the pre-filter as I didn't see a need for them and they kept it from sitting flat on the water which is important so you don't suck in air while filtering.� The only issue I had while filtering the first few times was that I would occasionally pull the pre-filter off the water and suck in a little air.� To keep from doing this I would put it in a calmer portion of the creek so it wouldn't float away and then tilt up at an angle because it was at the end of its line.� Also I moved the part of the pump with my hydration line and kept the inflow line as steady as possible.�

I haven't had this filter clog or slow down once so I gave it a 9.� I didn't give it a 10 because I'm sure I could have clogged it in some of the muddy waters of the elk wallows I saw this year but I don't know anyone who would filter water from a mud bath pit.� Also the water that I filter from is usually very clean and clear so I'm sure there are some areas that have murky water with lots of sand or silt that could cause a clog or reduction in flow for this or any other filter.� I have never had any issues with a clogged filter and I always try to find the cleanest water source to prevent these types of issues.� If the filter does clog there is a quick backflush process that should clear it.� To maintain the filter and flow�MSR recommends backflushing every 8 liters.� Pick your puddles wisely if you have to use them as a last resort.

�

The Hyperflow retails for around $100 and is effective against protozoa and bacteria.� It will not filter out taste like a ceramic filter will, such as the Miniworks EX, or chemicals/toxins.� In the areas I hunt the water tastes great but if this is a concern just take a pack of Wilderness Athlete Hydrate and Recover to mix in and this filter will work great for you.� Overall I found this to be a perfect backcountry hunting filter that I will now be carrying in my pack until something new comes out that tops its effectiveness and size.� For more information go to http://www.msrgear.com/watertreatment/hyperflow.asp and learn more about this product.

[...]

Devin - Outdoor Oriented

devinedge@bowcast.com — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

�� What�s up, my fellow bowhunting brethren? I�m honored to be given such an awesome opportunity to write about and share my experiences in the great outdoors. My main goal in my blogs is to grab your guy�s attention and stir that inner desire to get out and HUNT! Along with igniting that fire I would like to share some tips that could improve your chances of landing that buck, bull, or boar of a lifetime. With that, here is a little info about myself and family.

��

�� I grew up on a farm/ranch in western N.D. which was an absolute blessing for me. With a bevy of big game species and rad territory to boot, even the most serious of big game hunters would find their hands full. Oh yeah, did I mention that the landscape and sunsets are pretty cool too?

�

�

�� I was very young when I first discovered my love for the outdoors and hunting to be specific. I can remember walking with dad in early September pursuing sharp-tail grouse and Hungarian partridge. The rich smell of the sage brush and the buffalo berries filling up my nostrils brings back memories indescribable. The AutoZone saying �not all happy ours happen in a bar� is probably the best phrase I can think of when describing my passion for bowhunting/hunting. It is truly my �happy hour�, my natural high.�

�

�� I am blessed with an awesome family as well. I�d like to thank my father. Without him I wouldn�t know the hundreds of knots an outdoorsman should know or the hundreds of tactics used to pursue certain quarry etc. Without him things just wouldn�t be quiet the same. I most definitely wouldn�t be the outdoorsman I am today.

��

�� Of course there�s my mom who had and still has the patience of� well, a wary muledeer buck that is playing the waiting game. Man, there have been so many occasions where she could have simply lost it! Whether it was equipment laying everywhere, blood stained clothes, mud and silt on the rug, bloodied knives, and the list just goes on and on. Her patience is unfathomable.

�

�� Then comes my two older brothers. Neither a big hunter, but not being a hunter doesn�t take away their adventurous lust. Both have been to Europe and the eldest having hiked mountains in Oregon and Idaho not to mention the biggest surfing freak are family has yet to see. I mean seriously, who goes surfing off the coast of Oregon in October?

�

�� With that being said, I am looking forward to getting some sweet stories and sweet material out to you guys. Look for the next blog to consist of staying warm and staying as effiecent as possible during the most frigid of conditions.

Bowhunting in August and September is quiet different than Oct, Nov, and Dec and being from North Dakota I�ve learned a few lessons on bowhunting in downright nose running wind chill factors.

�I'm out

�

��

�

��

[...]

Matt Gets Whooped!

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Tonight I got whooped by a workout at Crossfit with Dan Staton!�� I didn't even finish the workout as Dan wanted me to come back so he only made me do 3 rounds of the 5 round�workout.� Thanks Dan. �I haven't worked out that hard since highschool 10 years ago when we did circuit training for football.� I think it made me realize how out of shape I really am and where I need to be for hunting season.� It also made me realize that the elk I ate for dinner tasted better going down then coming up.

�This summer I was running almost every day and shooting my bow daily but that was not nearly enough. �I have slacked off and I can tell my legs are�smaller and my lungs weaker.� Not where I wanted to be right now but with a�6 month old�son I have�been spending my evenings with Hunter.

Dan has a great program and knows what it takes to get you�in shape for hunting season.� Like Dan said in his Podcast this summer he trains you for different intensity levels and at a high heart rate.� Lets just say that the WOD, Fight Night, was intense and kept my heart rate high the whole time and the intensity level was working all three areas.

I can't wait to go back for an "easy" workout and next time I won't eat before I go...

If you haven't listened to the Podcast with Dan from this summer, do it and put it to practice!� You don't get any stronger sitting on the couch.....

I need to go eat dinner again.

[...]

My review of the 2009 Bowtech Captain

joeedge@bowcast.com — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

�My review of the 2009 Bowtech Captain;

Hey guys, well after an unfortunate�series�of events, I had to get a new bow. I picked up Bowtechs brand new 2009 Capain, in 70lbs with a 30" draw.

It definitely has an unconventional appearence, however, it is to date, the best bow I have owned.

First impressions;

-This bow is SO well machined its not even funny, the designing and engineering that went into reworking the General is very apparent. Its really a work of art structurally.
- The finish of the Realtree HD Green is super nice, especially with the InVelvet...and in the past the dipping on the riser hasnt been so hot especially in the inner holes of the riser, not the case.
-Also the machining on the cams is more refined than in the past.

�New features;

Bowtech has a couple new innovations that are parts of the Captain.

- Rotating Mod system- �this allows for a draw length adjustment from 24" to 30" all on the cam, with 3 set screws....no new modules or cams.

- CenterTrac Binary Cam System- This new cam system has a "control" style cable on either side of the bow allowing for more straightly aligned cams at full draw.

- Second Generation Center Pivot- The new forked riser designed is different from the original in that, opposed the the riser itself pivoting, the back fork of the riser attached with a rubber covered stainless steel sliding peice, allowing the limbs to to straight back and forth upon drawing. This allows for a pracially untorqued bow at full draw.

- String stop and roller gaurd-� Both the string stop and roller gaurd are new and improved features to the 09 Captain.

The draw;
The draw on this thing is VELVET, super smooth, and the letoff is unlike a Bowtech I have felt, even better than the Hoyt Cam & 1/2's I have shot before. Very smooth, good valley and solid wall.

Noise;
Ill suggest now that you need to do something to the string, be it a aftermarket string suppressor, or, a string silencer...Im going to put a BowRattler on and a set of the SlipJax in the strings.
However, I will say the factory suppressor is nice and well made. The thing is that causes the buzz is the fact the rubber isnt soft enough to suck in the string viration.

Shock;
Easy....slim to NONE

Speed;
The birth certificate says 29" draw 70lbs 350grain arrow.....320....so we adjusted the draw to 30" with the same arrow, peep and metal nock......326fps Im very pleased given the silky smooth draw and awesome hold.

Overall;
The price is up $20 bucks...not big a deal, but I think this bow is going to be a awesome hunting/3D bow for sure. It has the characteristics to be an awesome overall bow for the "do all" archer. The slight downside might be the weight of it..but its not bad.

Enjoy
Joe

A Short video of� the 2009 Bowtech Captain in action

[...]

07 Memoirs=08 Success

devinedge@bowcast.com — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

� �� Greetings Bowcasters,

� �� It's great to be writing during the most exciting time of the year for us outdoorsman and hunters alike. While i much rather be chillin in my MSR hubba hubba on a cold (28 degrees Fahrenheit to be exact) October night readying myself for the next days bowhunting trials, I am still truly honored and pumped to be kicking off my first blog here on Bowcast.

�Here are a few pictures I snapped in 07. Hopefully they will increase your guys drive for bowhunting success and bring back memories from past hunts. Man, I know just looking at these pics makes me wanna hunt and throw a repeat from last year!

Enjoy!

� �� Focus on 08 success my friends, for 09 is approaching oh so fast. Speaking of 08 i better lace up the boots and kill a deer of my own! Catch you guys at the taxidermist.

Devin

��

�

[...]

Dan Get's Whooped!

dan@sportsmansfitness.com — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

{youtube}QowGVP4zU2s{/youtube}

Matt's Equipment

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

For my first blog I am going to give you a quick breakdown of my equipment and a few of the topics you can expect to see in the upcoming months.� If you have a specific topic that you want covered in more detail please let me know and I will do my best to include it.� In addition to the topics below I�will be�posting some video blogs, gear reviews, and pictures from past seasons.

�� Upcoming Topics

�� -Backcountry meat care.

�� -Late season tactics for elk and whitetail.

�� -Keeping your backpack light and tight.

�� -My 2008 season.

Like most of you I have changed my gear until I found the combination of equipment that gives me confidence in the field and the ability to hunt a variety of species.� Since the spring of 2007 I have been shooting a Mathews Drenalin.� This summer I made a few modifications to my set up and decided to direct my arrows with a Winners Choice string.� At full draw my right eye looks through a 3/16 diameter G5 Meta peep and then picks up the .010 diameter pins of my Sword Acu-Site Apex 3rd Plane.� Easton Full Metal Jacket arrows are lifted from my riser with a Ripcord fall away and are capped with razor sharp G5 Monetec broadheads.� My bow is silenced by Sims Limb Savers, S-Coil stabilizer, and a stabilizer module.� This summer I also added a string stop of my own by taking a Bowtech string stop and modifying it to fit on my Mathews right above my string loop.� All of this is sent into motion by squeezing the trigger on my Tru-Fire 360 release.

Another component of my gear is what I wear, and I have based my clothing around the single phrase, "Cotton Kills."� I use Under Armor Cold Gear for my upper base with lightweight fleece layering until the weather forces me to put on a Gore-Tex shell or heavy fleece jacket.� I have used Cabela's Microtex pants since my first season and I still wear the same pair.� They are tough, quiet, warm and most important dry quickly if you get caught in a downpour.� Keeping my feet comfortable is important on both long and short hunts, so my feet are usually cushioned by Smartwool socks in L.L. Bean Cresta Hikers.� While my feet are resting I use Swarovski 10x42 binoculars to glass for my trophy.� I am going to devote another blog to "Burrows' Backpack" where I will break down the items that I always carry day hunting and solo bivy hunting.� ��

I can't wait to share more with everyone and wish you all success this season in the field!

Matt�

[...]

Product Review - Part 4 - Sure-Loc Sportsman's Special Sight

aroney@bowcast.com — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Back in the Saddle

First off, I want to apologize for not keeping my blog as up to date as I would like to over the last few weeks. A lot has been going on around my house and with my family, and I am in that "Guilt" phase between all the September hunting I did for Elk, Mule Deer, and Antelope - and the upcoming whitetail seasons as well as my trip planned for Mule Deer up in Montana. My apologies, but I think I am back on track.

OK - in a previous blog entry I have listed out some of the new 2008 equipment that I decided on and tested both year round in shooting sessions and 3D shoots, as well as in the field to date. In addition to some new equipment, a heightened regiment of year round practice has me shooting the best groups I have ever shot in my life. Why that is so important for this blog entry is that the Sure-Loc Sportsman's Special single pin adjustable sight, is in my opinion, the single most important piece of equipment that led me down the path of increased shooting success (NOTE: I should qualify this that the Archer's Advantage software is really mandatory to use in gaining the type of accuracy progress I have made over the last 12 months).

Benefits of Single Pin Sights

You have all heard Anthony and I talk about the benefits of single pin sights on various episodes of BowCast. Some of the benefits have been taken directly from the professional paper and 3D shooters, but I think Anthony has done a good job in bridging those benefits directly to those of us who compete against the animals in the field. I have listed the benefits as I see them to a single pin adjustable sight:

1) Less pin clutter - meaning, a single dot - pin on animal with no distractions

2) Single yardage adjustability - once your sight is dialed in, it doesn't matter if that animal is at 20 yards, 23 yards, 68 yards, or 37 yards - as long it is within your effective range, a single pin slider gives you the confidence that you are going to hit your mark. Bottom line, no guessing where to sight your "gap" between 2 pins on your setup - you just dial right in.

3) Confidence - Points #1 and #2 lead to confidence, and that is INVALUABLE in the field.

Review of the Sportsman's Special

As far as the Sure-Loc Sportsman's special, I give it an overall A+ as far as a single pin adjustable sight goes. It has all the micro adjustments including 3rd Axis adjustments that are important when getting sighted in. It's an absolute rock solid sight that held up to many thousands of vertical feet up and down in elk country this year, as well as rocky stalks above timberline.

In addition to the actual functionality of the single pin, I particularly like 2 features of the Sportsman's Special - a smaller pin gaurd and the availability of a .019 pin. Many folks would argue that this does not help with low light conditions - and I agree that statement would be accurate. Fortunately for me, I just thought through my last 4 kills, and none of them have been in low light conditions. In addition, I tested out the light kit that Sure-Loc sells as an accessory to the sight, and if lights are legal in your state, then this is a moot point. The smaller pin gaurd (I use a 3/16" G5 Outdoors Meta Peep that fits the housing perfectly) keeps my shot focused. Remember the old saying - aim small, miss small. I like that mind set with my pin housing. On the other end of the spectrum of low light conditions, the .019 pin fiber does not begin to "flare" in the bright and sunny bluebird days I am often hunting here in Colorado and the surrounding Western states.

The Bad News

There's not much bad news with this sight. As I stated, this single piece of equipment is the most valuable piece of equipment I purchased this year. I will say very frankly that I have not taken an animal with this sight (hopefully that will change very shortly). With that being said, there is the fear (OK, it has been a recurring nightmare I have had since about August) that if an animal moves in (or out for that matter) a long distance in a short amount of time that the hunter will not have the time to make a sight adjustment on the slider. I don't know what to say to that other than if this is a legitimate concern of yours, check out the SureLoc Max ST - it's available in 3 and 5 fixed pin configurations, but still gives you the adjustability (and eliminates guessing) out at further ranges. I think I am over my fears until I am actually in the situation where I miss an opportunity because I am adjusting my sight. Until then, I will stay confident and focused on my shot.

For those of you considering a single pin sight, I HIGHLY recommend taking a look at the Sportsman's Special. If single pin is not your thing, but adjustabilty is, then take a look at one of the other adjustable sights from Sure-Loc - they do an amazing job for professional shooters and hunters alike.

Questions? Leave a comment on this blog post and I will do my best to answer. Also, if you have used the Sportsman's Special and have any specific feedback, I'd love to hear it - comment post away!

Aneal

[...]

Bowfishing - 101

aroney@bowcast.com — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Folks,

As a prelude to an upcoming episode of BowCast - I have included an article written by Mark Land who is involved with Bowfishing Promotions as well as a Technical Support Specialist at Muzzy. Mark will be joining Anthony and I to talk Bowfishing in a few weeks. In the meantime, Mark shared the following article he wrote....good stuff for those of us (like me) considering getting into more bowfishing. In addition to the article below, Mark recommends the following resources for folks wanting to get into more bowfishing:

www.bowfishingassociation.com

www.realbowfishing.com

www.bow.fishingcountry.com

If you have questions about bowfishing, please post them as a comment to this blog entry. We'll try to get them answered on an upcoming episode with a true Bowfishing legend - Mark Land!

Beginning Bowfishing

Mark Land

Bowfishing Division Manager

Muzzy Products

Bowfishing is becoming one of the fastest growing facets of archery. More and more bowhunters are experiencing the thrill of taking rough fish with archery tackle. Bowfishing encompasses the full spectrum of tackle uses, from the basic recurve with wind on reel to the custom built, bowfishing oriented bows with matching water camo and tournament specific line retrieval reels. Bowfishing can be done from the bank of the smallest creek to the biggest oceans of the world. Bowfishermen regularly take fish as small as bait size, to sharks weighing hundreds or even thousands of pounds, including the pursuit of such exotic species as alligators.

Anyone interested in getting into bowfishing is well advised to seek the advice of someone already involved in the sport. Experience helps when it comes time to get set up and make your initial equipment purchase. Initial equipment can be as simple as an old bow and a wind on reel, but I would highly recommend the beginner to invest in a more efficient retrieval system. Wind-on reels are adequate and work, but they can be very frustrating and slow to use for the beginner. Wind-on reels require the line to be wound on the spool by hand after every shot. This effort reduces shot opportunities and decreases the amount of shooting that takes place. These reels work, but a much better alternative is either a Zebco or Shakespeare spincast reel or an AMS retriever. These reels store an adequate amount of heavy, tough line, are free flowing on the shot, and retrieve an arrow rapidly for a quick next shot. These reels are very efficient and work well and their use depends, mainly on familiarity or availability. Line used for bowfishing must be very strong, abrasion resistant, large enough to handle, but small enough to ensure an adequate amount on the reel. Dacron line works, but braided spectra�fastflite is the ultimate bowfishing line and well worth the minimal investment. This line is the toughest and most durable line available and will last the shooter a long time. Normally 200 and 150 pound line is used on the spincast reels, while the retrievers can utilize the 350 or 400 pound line. When it comes to arrows, basically there is one choice-fiberglass, cheap, durable, simple and effective. Fiberglass arrows work well and are used by over 90% of all bowfishermen. Safety slides or cables are recommended for additional safety and to help eliminate the line catching or hanging up on anything during the draw. Arrow tips for bowfishing come in many styles and most will do a very good job at penetrating and holding the fish. Some heads are designed for specific uses, such as large fish or rocky bottoms, grass or weed infested lakes, etc. This is where experience and advice will help and save the beginner trouble and money purchasing items they may not need. The main thing to look for in a fishing head is that the barbs are adequate and strong enough to hold the fish, but also must be able to release or reverse easily for fish removal and the tip is strong enough to hold up to impacts with rocks and the bottom and still be sharp enough for adequate penetration. Muzzy�s Carp or Gar point, Stingray, Shureshot and Warhead are all excellent choices. There are several other accessories that would be beneficial, these include polarized glasses for daytime fishing to cut the glare on the water, a brimmed hat for shade and improved visibility and a container to hold the fish and eliminate messes. Adequate clothing is essential to protect the shooter from the elements and help break up the fish-spooking outline.

Bowfishing can be done from the bank or boat depending on the resources available. Bowfishing at night is one of the most exciting aspects of bowfishing, with shooting opportunities often approaching 200 or more shots a night. Of course this kind of fishing is advanced, requiring specialty boats, decks, lighting, generators, etc., but it is usually the path that beginners eventually lead to, as they become more involved in bowfishing. Bowfishing is a widely accepted and popular sport in almost all states. Game and fish departments, Bass clubs and others welcome bowfishermen and applaud their efforts at reducing the non-native rough fish populations in many of our lakes and rivers. Rough fish can adversely affect the native game fish populations either by predation or habitat destruction. Most states allow only the harvest of rough or non-game fish, very few states allow the harvest of game fish which keeps the sportsmen groups on the bowfishermens side. Most of the common rough fish include: carp, gar, sucker, shad and bowfin. Other species which may be pursued include: Alligators (with special permits), turtles and a wide variety of saltwater species. Be sure to check your state regulations for the legal species in your state.

Many organizations have been formed to promote and perpetuate bowfishing, from organizing members to sponsoring tournaments. Bowfishing is even available on the internet and a wealth of information can obtained from many web sources. Some organizations like the BAA(Bowfishing Association of America), Bow.fishingcountry.com, Texas Bowfishing Association, Sully�s Bowfishing Stuff and Muzzy Products can be accessed on your computer, not only leading to more knowledge, but future friendships and more opportunities for exotic hunts and species.

Bowfishing is an ever increasing sport, one that can involve the whole family, one that usually takes place during the nice periods of the year and can be done day or night. Bowfishing is an excellent tool to introduce women and children to bow shooting and the outdoors and is a way for the whole family to participate together.

Beginning bowfishermen must practice and always realize that shooting fish underwater is not the same as shooting the target butt in the yard. Light refraction plays an important part in how you aim at fish. Due to the bending of light rays entering the water, the objects appear much lower than they actually are. Bowfishermen must remember to aim much lower on their target than they normally would. One thing that I usually tell beginners to do is aim as low as they think they need to and then drop down about a foot. This will give them a point to start with and they can adjust from there. Idle time on the water can be spent practicing on objects on the bottom. It is surprising how low you must aim on some target�s to actually hit them. Practicing will ensure more success and less frustration from missing so many, what appear to be, easy shots. The bows and equipment must still be tuned, just like your hunting rig. The arrows need to be fairly straight and centershot should be corrected for the arrow to come off the bow as straight as possible. Nock height is adjusted for flat arrow flight. The best way to tune the bow and arrow is to shoot the fish arrow, without line attached, into a large block of foam. Adjust the nock and centershot, or arrow length, until the arrow sticks in the target as straight as possible. This is basically the same method as used when bare shaft tuning you equipment. If the arrow does not enter the water straight, it will veer off at the angle it hit and make hitting your target very difficult.

Give bowfishing a try, but be forewarned, this sport can be very addictive. If you enjoy your free time or have other hobbies, consider not trying it or else your entire time may well be spent bowfishing.

Good luck and enjoy your time outdoors.

Mark Land

Bowfishing

Muzzy Products

[...]

My Alberta Whitetail Hunt

daveedge@bowcast.com — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Hey guys hope every one is having a great season. I just returned from my Canada whitetail hunt.� When I got off the plane in Edmonton Alberta it was a 2 hour drive from the airport� to the lodge. I met one of the hunters that would be in camp Steve we shared hunting stories.� Lee�told us we would have to be patient if we wanted get a big whitetail he told�us of the whitetails he had been�seeing. ��We arrived at the lodge I met another�bowhunter Rene.� We shot are bows than we met Eric he told us what the plan for mourning. We ate dinner than Eric told me I would be hunting a huge 10 point with 2 cheaters that night I didn't get much sleep. �
�Monday I didn't see any deer Tuesday I had some doe under my stand I saw the big 8 point he was on my left I told Eric when I got out of the stand Eric told me to pass him if I saw him again. Wednesday�night the buck was back he came to within 20 yrds� I passed him. The rest of the week was slow I never the saw the buck after Wednesday I did see a big bull moose lots of mule�deer some�shooters.� The weather played a big part in this hunt in�was 80 degrees 2 weeks before my hunt than it was really cold the week I hunted in Alberta. �
� This hunt was one of the best I have ever experienced � I�had a blast I will be back in the north county very soon � This hunt also taught me to be patient � shoot straight � dave
[...]