Dall Sheep Hunting - The Mental Approach

By Tony Dingess

Having guided Dall sheep hunters for the past 15 years I have encountered just about every kind of hunter one can imagine. From guys that have lost 30 pounds during the training before the hunt, to guys that simply thought way too much of their own abilities before coming into sheep country. One eventually encounters every shape, size and mindset. Of all these things, the mindset has sent more people home early than any other thing, period!

For the most part the physical demands of sheep hunting in Alaska are pretty well understood. Few guides will pretend that there is anything easy about such hunts, and because of the very nature of sheep habitat, more often than not sheep hunts are also "backpack" hunts, thus the physical abilities of clients must be considered from the very beginning. This being said, and as important as getting in physical shape is, I have yet to see a client give up due to physical reasons in the past 15 years. Yes we have had guys give out physically during a particular stage of a hunt, but I have never had anyone that had a physical problem that caused them to quit and go home. I cannot say the same for psychological breakdowns!

My sheep hunting experience began as a packer and day one of my sheep hunting career ended with a client breaking down in the middle of a stalk, and not only refusing to go on for the final 200 hundred yards, but insisting that we return to spike camp, pull it and get completely off the mountain in one move. Why? The slope was a 60 degree slope with intermittent grass, which is better than most ram locations, and it was very early afternoon, yet the client seemed thoroughly convinced that we would be stuck on the mountain until midnight. Irrational thoughts swept through his mind and there was no reasoning or logic would convince him to continue on for a couple of hundred more yards.
The physical preparation that this hunter had went through was probably perfectly sufficient to carry him through, indeed there was no evidence to the contrary, but he obviously encountered something that he was not mentally prepared for, and rest assured, the middle of a stalk on the ram of a lifetime isn't a good time to start your mental preparation.

Of course one will ask, logically so, "How do I prepare mentally for such a hunt?" If you haven't asked this, you should, and the first thing I would suggest is simply the acquisition of knowledge. Find out everything you can find out about sheep hunting, the terrain, typical stalk scenario, weather and delays, potential problems, etc. Knowledge is fundamental, and knowing what to expect is mentally critical. Surprises often send the human brain reeling and Alaska wilderness hunting often throws surprises, but you can limit these by getting the basics down. The more informed you are, the less likely you will succumb to the despair of any particular moment while in sheep camp.
While it is beyond the limits of this article to spell out every situation that you may encounter while sheep hunting in Alaska with any one of hundreds of different outfitters, we can give a few pointers to those who have ears to hear.

• Expect to be physically challenged, perhaps to the point that you simply think you cannot go on, and then be prepared to force yourself beyond this. You have more in you than what you would imagine.
• Don't expect things to overly comfortable in the field on a sheep hunt, rather prepare for small tents, heavy packs and less than exciting meals.
• Be prepared for weather delays, possibly before you even get in the field, and realize that there is nothing you can really do when the visibility gets down to a hundred yards in the mountains.
• Don't be surprised by an apparent lack of game. Alaska is huge and game populations are seldom comparable to many western states. Be prepared to stay focused until the end of the hunt.
• Do expect rams to be in very difficult places. Many times they are positioned in places that we simply cannot get to, so be ready to wait, and even pass up a potential trophy if it is too risky.
• Expect everything to weigh more than you thought it did while at home.
• Expect steep slopes, horrendous footing and rock slides and be prepared to go where you would not normally go.
• Expect to cross a stream that is running at 33 degrees in your underwear, and don't think it is unusual to do so by headlamp in the middle of the night.
• Truly expect your opportunity to be knocking, even if it the last day and nothing but failure has haunted you for the entire hunt.

These are the basics for mentally preparing for the hunt, and this kind of preparation can overcome a lot of obstacles, even physical shortcomings, or less than perfect marksmanship, but don't skimp on any area if you really want to experience the hunt of a lifetime. Settle it in your mind, get ready and go!

Registered Alaskan Guide and hunting outfitter Tony Dingess invites you to check out the resources available to the prospective hunter looking for adventure in the great land at http://www.alaskahunts.net. Feel free to contact us for additional information by phone or email at http://www.alaskahunts.net/alaska/contact.htm

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Hunting by the Phase of the Moon - Does It Really Work?

 By Cori Bridges

Hunting season hits and you have thousands of hunters running out to the woods in search of kill. Some may make it happen and others will come back empty-handed. Obviously having hunting skills is a bonus to having a successful hunt. Most serious hunters will do whatever they can to find the prey that they want to get. This includes; better weapons, more practice shooting or bow targets, different hours of the day and night, and much more. It is a dilemma that many hunters come across.

Fisherman learned early on that the moon influences the amount and size of fish that they catch. They diligently go over moon and tide charts as well as follow the moon phases.
Animals themselves are in tune with the nature around them and do certain things by the sun and the moon. They are aware of shifts in nature, from the weather to the tides to the moon and sun rising and falling. For years scientists and researchers have studied and tested the reactions of wildlife to the different phases of the moon and have found interesting patterns that are beneficial to the hunter.

Animals normally are less active and will stay hidden in the daylight. However, they feel safe during the night-time hours because the darkness hides them from other predators, thus many animals will increase their activity after dusk falls.

Researchers have found that one of the most active times if not the most active time is when the moon is the fullest, which means to all the hunters out there, that hunting during full moon times is the best time to get what you want. What this means is; if you are aware of the moon phases and have the skills and the knowledge to hunt then you are in a better position to be awake and hunting when the animals are.

Right now most information and testing has been done on deer hunting and deer activity and there are seasoned hunters that swear they get the best and biggest deer under a full moon. They have also found that other phases of the moon the deer are more prone to certain activity and the moon seems to impact mating times, which makes them easier to find as the males are more focused on the females than the hunters. Not only that, but by learning moon phases in deer patterns you will find that during mating times there are more male deer about.

Like most animals, even human women, the females reproductive cycle is influenced by the different phases of the moon and it has been found that for deer it peaks three or four days surrounding the second full moon after the autumnal equinox. Now if you know about male deer, then you know when does are in heat, the bucks are all a stir, with rubbing and scraping trees and stuff to catch the does attention. Would be a great time if you were hunter to be in the area.

There are some animals that are horrible to hunt during a full bright moon, one that comes to mind is the hog. They are skittish at the best of times and during any lit night they will not come into the open or feed. They will wait for the optimum time of darkness.
It would be silly to think that moon only affects the deer and it is true that other animals find their highest activity during a full moon. Your job then is to fully research the animal you are hunting and when they do things that will make it the easiest for your find. Hunting by moon phases will almost certainly lead to your best hunting season ever.

For more great articles on everything Kentucky and Country Living please go to our Kentucky Farmhouse website. If you are interested in hunting by the moon then you may be interested in moon phases and there importance.

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Hunting Safety Tips - Communicating From The Woods During An Emergency

By Keith Cantelmo

Good communications when you head out into the woods for your next deer hunting trip is definitely a matter of survival. Before you even leave home, you should plan what your communications methods with other hunters as well as home will be. Not to mention the fact that you should also know what communications method you will use to reach emergency responders. In fact, the first two hunting safety tips we will discuss do not require any equipment or special gadgets.

Hunting Safety Tip # 1- Let Someone Know
Make sure someone knows when you plan to leave, when your expected to arrive at your hunting destination, when your expected to return as well as the route you plan to take to get there. Be sure to provide as much information about your trip as possible.
When you are out in the woods, things can happen. Rocks fall, boats can tip over, guns can malfunction and so on. By letting someone know the details of your hunting trip, if you do become injured and your overdue; then help can be called and sent out looking for you. This may not be the most speedy response, but it is better than no response.

Hunting Safety Tip # 2- Never Hunt Alone
Taking a hunting buddy with you can make the overall hunting experience more fun and enjoyable; making your hunting trip a safer experience is an added bonus.
Most hunters who head out alone, long for the solitude and retrospect that the wonderful outdoors can often deliver. If this is you, then definitely take heed of the other safety tips in this article.

Hunting Safety Tip # 3- Have Multiple Pieces Of Equipment
What communications devices do you consider essential hunting equipment? If you are like most people in this country; the most popular device for communicating with others is a cell phone. This is completely understandable given the fact that a cell phone can bring instant communications between you and just about anyone you want at the other end of the line. This is all true, except maybe for your trip through the wilderness.
There are many places all across the country where your cell phone coverage will be adequate. If you have great service like this, you can literally have entire conversations while sitting in your tree stand.
Unfortunately this is not always the case. As a matter of fact, it is my experience that this is often not the case. If you are a dedicated hunter, you are always in search of pristine and remote locations to find the buck of a lifetime. These places quite often do not have any cell phone coverage. So, if you were to get hurt in these woods, you would not be able to call 911 or anyone else for help.
Consider having an additional piece of equipment to help you communicate in an emergency. A two-way radio is a much more reliable piece of equipment. The downside is that there are less people monitoring these frequencies. However, if you plan ahead, someone back at home can have one of the radios. Then you literally have a lifeline if and when you need it. Despite how obvious this may sound, be sure that both you and the other person are on the same frequency.
There is also a device called a "SPOT." This is a personal GPS device which has a built in S.O.S. button in case of emergency. These are definitely more reliable as they use the global positioning satellites to function. You can purchase a SPOT online for less than $200.
Regardless the communications device you choose, before you leave on your trip, be sure that your line of communications is working properly. If possible, have additional batteries with you.

Hunting Safety Tip # 4- Bring A Whistle
This very low tech item can save your life in the event you cannot shout for help. Keep a loud whistle hanging around your neck, if you are trapped under a tree or boulder or otherwise incapable of shouting, you will likely still be able to blow air through your whistle. If rescuers are in the are looking for you, this will call them right in.

Armed with this information you are now prepared to head out into the wilderness and be able to communicate even during an emergency.

Trophy Deer Hunting Secrets reveals how experts get dramatic results when hunting for trophy whitetails. To learn more about hunting safety tips visit us at http://www.trophydeerhuntingsecrets.com

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Bow Hunting Beginners - Learn Archery Hunting

By David M. Waters

Are you a bow hunting beginner looking to master this unique and ancient method of hunting game? The sport of bow hunting has gained a lot of popularity over the last fifty years. Many sportsman like the greater challenge of hunting an animal with a bow, rather then with a high powered hunting rifle. To get the most from this style of hunting here are some tips for bow hunting beginners.

Have the right equipment. Longbows, recurve and compound bows are the three most common types with compound bows being the bow of choice by the vast majority of hunters now. The cams and pulleys of a compound bow increase the force and power of the arrow as it is shot. When the bow is at full draw there is a significant decrease in the tension needed to hold at that position. This assists the archer in aiming as he can relax slightly at full draw. In hunting he can also hold the position longer which can be necessary to get the best shot at the game animal. This explains why the compound bow is by far the top choice of bow hunters today. Selecting the correct size bow for the individual is important to allow for the best shooting performance. Be sure to select the arrows that are correct for the bow you are using. Since different bows have different draw lengths it is vital to select the arrows that match up with he draw length of the bow. To short or too long will obviously not work well.

Makes certain you are well aware of all the applicable hunting regulations for the area you plant to hunt. Each state or province will have its own set of laws and regulations. Some areas have specific rules for broad head arrows to be used for hunting big game animals such as deer, bear and elk. Expensive fines can be levied for using the wrong type of arrow head. It is the hunter's responsibility to know and follow all local laws.
Here is something to think about for all bow hunting beginners. Are you a hunter who uses a bow? Or are you an archer who also goes hunting? Regular archery practice is the best way to become a successful bow hunter. Do not put away your bow at the end of one hunting season, and then only take it out the following year and expect to be very proficient. For maximum skill learn the proper technique and practice on a regular basis, ideally year round. Remember - Practice makes perfect!

If possible take trips to the woods that you are expecting to hunt and do this throughout the year, not just right before hunting season. This will give you an opportunity to really learn the area and also to practice your stalking abilities Stalking skills can be very important since the effective range for a bow is only about 50 to 70 yards and a shot of about 30 yards is considered ideal. While becoming familiar with the potential hunting area you can also find where you might want to put a stand.

Consider using scent neutralizers when you bow hunt. The sense of smell of game animals should not be underestimated. This sense is so far superior to the human sense of smell it can be hard for us to comprehend. Their senses of hearing and sight are also significantly developed. This can make it very difficult to get in position for a good shot at an animal. When you hear a deer snort he is actually smelling the scent in the air. Remember the effect the wind can have in carrying your scent to the animal.

By combining good archery skills, knowledge of animal movement and stealthy movements in the woods you will greatly increase your chances of success when you go bow hunting.

Did you know that the art of shooting a bow and arrow is one of the oldest methods of hunting used by humans and today archery is still a very popular sport that is even part of the Olympics? If you are looking for more ways to improve your archery and bow hunting skill then visit Bow and Arrow Lessons and find out more useful and fun information.

David Waters is an avid outdoorsman with over 30 years of experience fishing, hiking and camping. A resident of Massachusett with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from the University of Massachusetts, and he is author of The Fitness Center Handbook. He is also a founding member of The Nahanni Camping and Fishing Club.

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Bend Oregon-Home to Large Bull Trout

By Jimmy D Johnson

Bend Oregon is home to some of the largest Bull Trout in the Pacific Northwest and the United States. The Metolius River which is about a one hour drive west of Bend is the spawning ground to a great Bull Trout fishery.

The Metolius River springs from the ground at the base of Black Butte and flows into Lake Billy Chinook. Lake Billy Chinook is technically a reservoir as it is backed up my Round Butte Dam. The Metolius River, Crooked River and the Deschutes River all flow into the reservoir.

Bull Trout are an endangered species in Oregon with the exception of the Lake Billy Chinook and the Metolius River fishery. The Metolius maintains a steady flow of pure water at a moderate temperature year round, ideal for Bull Trout Spawning.
Bull Trout closely resemble Dolly Varden which is an anadromous trout found in coastal streams. The Dolly Varden migrates to the ocean to feed and then spawns in the coastal rivers. The Bull Trout is a land locked cousin.

The Metolius River and Lake Billy Chinook provide a year round fishery for large Bull Trout. The river is strictly catch and release of all fish including Bull Trout and restricted to artificial flies and lures downstream from Bridge 99. Consult the current issue of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Fishing Regulations.

Matt Johnson, a Bend real estate broker, and three of his friends recently took advantage of a 65 degree day in February and landed and released 9 huge Bull Trout while fly fishing the Metolius River. The largest was close to a whopping 32 inches! Fly fishing for Bull Trout is not an easy proposition but these fishermen have figured it out. Most fly fishermen put in many hours before hooking a large "Bully." Landing one is another matter.
The Oregon State record was caught in the reservoir in 1989 by Don Yow. It was a gigantic 23 pounds and 2 ounces. Biologists say there are larger fish present today.
Lake Billy Chinook is full of Kokanee Salmon which is the primary source of food for the big trout. These salmon are plentiful and help Bull Trout grow fat fast. They will however, eat anything that swims as long as it is bit size. They do take big bits.
Even thought the reservoir is open year round the Metolius Arm is closed during the winter months and open March first through October 31. The best time to catch large Bull Trout in Lake Billy Chinook is March through April in the Metolius arm. Normally the big fish will come out of the deep water into the shallows to feed at this time.
They can usually be found in 10 to 20 foot of water. Any lure that resembles a six to twelve Kokanee is best. Fly fisherman can set up a wind drift along the shore and cast large streamers into the appropriate zones.

Trolling for big trout is also popular. Large silver plugs such as Rapalas and Rebels are successful. Some fishermen will use down riggers putting their lures at the appropriate depth which is usually 15 to 20 feet. Be ready for a strike when you cross a main lake point. Cut herring is a popular bait when trolling.

Some anglers will cast to the shore. You can either set up a wind drift of use an electric trolling motor to keep your boat at the appropriate depth. Keep the boat in 15-20 feet of water and cast into the shallows. Big Bull Trout can sometimes be found in 3-5 feet of water if the wind is blowing with a good chop on the water.

There are some years when the fish don't move into the shallows early in the season. If this is the case jigging may be the ticket. Use your depth finder to locate the large schools of Kokanee in the Metolius Arm. This happened in 2006 to Daryl Loveland of Bend. He caught and released a 14 pound Bull Trout in 80 feet of water with a 2 oz jigging spoon right off the bottom.

Current Oregon State regulations allow one fish 24 inches or larger to be kept per day. To fish the Metolius Arm of the reservoir it will be necessary to purchase a Warm Springs Tribal fishing permit. These permits can be purchased in Culver at one of the two grocery stores. You drive through Culver on your way to the Reservoir.

Winter and early spring are the best times to fish for large Bull Trout. The river can become a little crowded in the summer and Lake Billy Chinook is a well known water skiing lake. Please release all Bull Trout as they are not very good eating. Plus, that 15 pounder may grow up to be the next state record if you release it. If you get one over 23 pounds and 2 ounces, keep it. You will have a new state record!

Jim Johnson CRS is a real estate expert who has lived in Bend Oregon since 1981. Call 541-389-4511 or see his web site http://www.BendOregonRealEstateExpert.com or See more fishing information at Bull Trout Virtual Tour

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