Post by: h20hunter on February 10, 2011, 01:54:25 PM
Post by: raekmike on February 10, 2011, 01:56:34 PM
Post by: Special T on February 10, 2011, 01:58:00 PM
Post by: JimmyHoffa on February 10, 2011, 02:10:49 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 10, 2011, 02:14:08 PM
Post by: 400out on February 10, 2011, 02:26:09 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 10, 2011, 02:30:10 PM
Post by: brew on February 10, 2011, 03:24:31 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 10, 2011, 03:29:38 PM
Post by: CementFinisher on February 11, 2011, 12:21:43 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 13, 2011, 02:30:49 PM
Post by: heartshot on February 13, 2011, 04:30:24 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 14, 2011, 12:38:58 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 20, 2011, 02:19:37 PM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on February 20, 2011, 02:40:34 PM
better to be 10-15 feet off a trail, 30-40 yards INSIDE cover.
Most animals dont like to be exposed like that. :twocents:
Post by: h20hunter on February 20, 2011, 02:58:20 PM
Post by: blacktailcrzy on February 23, 2011, 06:29:17 PM
Post by: h20hunter on March 07, 2011, 09:14:01 AM
Post by: Special T on March 07, 2011, 09:54:48 AM
Post by: h20hunter on March 07, 2011, 10:11:23 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 02, 2011, 05:07:39 PM
So, what ate my block?
Post by: JimmyHoffa on April 02, 2011, 05:58:59 PM
Post by: h20hunter on April 02, 2011, 06:07:40 PM
Post by: zackmioli on April 02, 2011, 06:51:52 PM
Post by: h20hunter on April 02, 2011, 06:56:52 PM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on April 02, 2011, 11:18:42 PM
:twocents:
A lot of what you are seeing is the rain washing the minerals into the earth.
Post by: h20hunter on April 03, 2011, 08:49:34 AM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on April 03, 2011, 08:52:07 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 03, 2011, 08:58:59 AM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on April 03, 2011, 09:12:40 AM
I have seen areas where there is a hole in the ground over 6 inches deep by 2 feet wide, and the earth cleared out over 6 feet in all directions, but these are in Eastern Wa.
Post by: h20hunter on April 03, 2011, 09:20:10 AM
Post by: PolarBear on April 03, 2011, 09:20:46 AM
Maybe next time I'll build a little rock "hut" to cover the block. That would protect it from the main rain and still allow the animals to get to it.Place the block at the base of a big fir or cedar tree under the boughs.
Post by: D-Rock425 on April 03, 2011, 09:21:41 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 03, 2011, 09:29:38 AM
Regarding the base of a tree. Not really an option at the site.
Post by: DBHAWTHORNE on April 03, 2011, 09:41:26 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 09, 2011, 11:05:39 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 09, 2011, 11:07:01 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 09, 2011, 11:14:15 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 09, 2011, 11:16:12 AM
Post by: oldleclercrd on April 09, 2011, 11:40:00 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on April 10, 2011, 08:30:20 AM
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on April 10, 2011, 05:20:05 PM
Post by: h20hunter on April 11, 2011, 06:17:59 AM
Post by: oldleclercrd on April 11, 2011, 07:24:20 AM
If I get a bear on apples I won't even be in the area with a bow or rifle. Just not going to take a chance on who is more believable. The guys with the apples or the guy with the badge.
Ain't that the truth!
Post by: ORCA_SIX on April 11, 2011, 08:18:12 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on April 11, 2011, 09:50:14 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 11, 2011, 09:57:36 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on April 11, 2011, 10:11:14 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 11, 2011, 10:14:49 AM
Post by: ORCA_SIX on April 11, 2011, 10:19:07 AM
Post by: h20hunter on April 11, 2011, 10:42:06 AM
Post by: ORCA_SIX on April 11, 2011, 11:06:31 AM
Post by: oldleclercrd on April 11, 2011, 11:31:35 AM
Nah, I figure 30 or so miles walked so far, hours....?, cash, oh, probably about 150$ so far. However, I'm having a lot more fun than sucking down beers or sitting on the couch. I am also learning new areas and just enjoying myself. However, I'll still be having a nice beer and couch surfing a bit.
A nice beer? Like only one?
Post by: h20hunter on April 25, 2011, 10:17:12 AM
So, back out this weekend. Here is what I learned.
1. my legs are getting in shape because a 50lb bag of cob on my back is pretty easy.
2. my kids wagon will indeed hold two boxes of apples and another 50lb bag of cob.
3. my kids wagon is not meant for that purpose.
4. bears are loud in the thick brush.
5. skip the wagon next time and make a few trips if I'm that motivated.
6. trail cam bateries only last a month or so.
7. dead trail cam batteries fall out of bottom of kids wagon.
So, this weekend I'll be going on a battery easter egg hunt. Fun.
Post by: seansfire on April 28, 2011, 03:12:18 PM
Post by: h20hunter on April 28, 2011, 03:53:45 PM
Post by: h20hunter on April 30, 2011, 08:46:21 AM
Post by: oldleclercrd on April 30, 2011, 11:03:54 AM
Post by: DoubleJ on April 30, 2011, 11:11:49 AM
1. it's got more protein than cob. I've read that from Feb-Aug, protein is what they need for nursing fawns and antler growth.
2. I have 400lbs of oats.
I also have 3 apple flavored salt licks from walmart and one 50lb mineral block from the feed store in the area. Trail cam is set. I was out shooting my new pistol today and decided to check the cam, just because. 12 pictures, no animals. Branches must have set it off. I hiked the mile and a half back out of the woods and, when I got back to the truck, I realized I forgot to turn the camera back on. :bash: I'll go back in a few days and turn the thing on. I want to try and keep the scent out of there.
Post by: h20hunter on April 30, 2011, 01:51:34 PM
Post by: h20hunter on April 30, 2011, 01:57:22 PM
Post by: DoubleJ on April 30, 2011, 04:46:04 PM
Post by: oldleclercrd on April 30, 2011, 07:29:47 PM
Post by: bobcat on April 30, 2011, 07:44:48 PM
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on April 30, 2011, 08:43:30 PM
Post by: carpsniperg2 on April 30, 2011, 08:48:23 PM
C.O.B. = Corn Oats Barley
Is that what that stands for I always thought it was
C:raby
O:ld
B:it#@
:chuckle:
Post by: HornHoarder on April 30, 2011, 09:18:38 PM
One more thing....about scent. I have been sitting, walking, clipping my nails, and just carring on in general at my site. I pee where I want and wear my everyday boots and take no scent precaution. Why.....well, I figure if it smells like me all the time then the scent will not be different. Different is alarming. Same 'ol is not. Last time I check the cam they were at the site hours after I left. If "me", meaning my scent, is just another normal smell for them they won't pay the least of attention when I'm in a blind with a bow drawn. You may think I'm crazy but I've seen this first hand. I've sat 12 feet from a 4 pt. mulie while it fed on apples. Oh, yeah, by the way, I was fully exposed with no gloves or facemask. I had camo on but just held still. My scent was just part of the everyday smell they were used to. However, can't hurt to keep the scent to a minimum. We'll know soon enough I suppose.
That is the same scent control program I use around my farm. I call it conditioning them to human scent. I know it sounds crazy, but it works for me. I wear my dirty work clothes, pee near feeding sites, smoke. The bucks still come in. Of course I start this pattern months before the hunting season. I believe they get used to it.
Post by: h20hunter on April 30, 2011, 09:53:49 PM
Well, the fights were decent tonight. The one dude with the huge lump on his head was nasty. I kept wanting him to get that baby cut open.
Next weekend....halibut.
See yah.
Post by: h20hunter on May 07, 2011, 04:10:04 PM
So, onto the pics. Take a look and tell me what you think is going on with the hair on these critters.
Post by: h20hunter on May 07, 2011, 04:13:26 PM
Post by: bobcat on May 07, 2011, 04:23:42 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 07, 2011, 06:56:19 PM
Blacktail Bait Cam, 2011 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhuGFsu20GU#)
Post by: DoubleJ on May 07, 2011, 06:59:13 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 07, 2011, 07:25:56 PM
Post by: DoubleJ on May 07, 2011, 07:42:33 PM
Post by: bobcat on May 07, 2011, 07:48:06 PM
Deer "Hair Loss Syndrome" Fact Sheet
April 2010
“Hair loss syndrome”(HLS) of black-tailed deer was first described in western Washington in 1995. The condition is caused by a heavy infestation with a Eurasian louse of poorly defined taxonomic status in the genus Damalinia (Cervicola) sp. The normal hosts of this louse are European and Asian deer and antelope, which are not seriously affected by the lice. In contrast, when black-tailed deer become infested, they tend to develop a hypersensitivity (severe allergic) reaction to the lice, which causes irritation of the skin and excessive grooming by the deer. Eventually, this excessive grooming leads to loss of the guard hairs, leaving yellow or white patches along the sides (Figures 1 and 2). Infestations are heaviest during late winter and early spring, and many affected deer, especially fawns, die during this time. The geographical distribution of HLS has steadily expanded since its first appearance and now affects black-tailed deer throughout their range in western Washington and western Oregon. This species of lice has been found on elk in Washington, but does not result in the severe hair loss seen in deer. To date, the presence of this louse has not been documented in mule deer or white-tailed deer in Washington east of the Cascade Range. Beginning in 2003, WDFW began to receive reports of deer from the Yakima area of south-central Washington with clinical signs similar to HLS. These reports were of deer occurring in the black-tailed/mule deer intergrade zone in the eastern foothills of Cascade Range, and were the first reports of apparent HLS in eastern Washington. Reports of more severely affected deer were received in 2004. In March 2005, lice were collected from four affected deer and identified as Bovicola tibialis, yet another exotic old world species with fallow deer as the normal host. During the early spring of 2006, WDFW received numerous reports of dead deer, especially fawns, in the Yakima area with hair loss. The geographical extent of reports received in 2006 had expanded greatly compared to previous years and included occurrences of the condition in mule deer. Aerial surveys and harvest statistics suggest that the deer population in Yakima and Kittitas counties has declined by about 50% since the arrival of the lice. It is unknown if Bovicola tibialis infestations are the sole reason for the drop in deer numbers, but they are suspected to be a factor. Bovicola tibialis is also associated with hair loss in deer in Klickitat County. In Chelan County, the occurrence of Bovicola tibialis was documented in 2009, and by April 2010, deer affected by hair loss were observed throughout the county's mule deer winter range. Neither species of the exotic lice described above affect humans or domestic animals. In captive settings, deer have been successfully cleared of lice infestations with the use of medication. However, in free-ranging situations, there is no practical method for delivering effective doses of medication to large populations of wild deer. |
Post by: oldleclercrd on May 08, 2011, 07:29:31 AM
Post by: h20hunter on May 14, 2011, 09:25:34 AM
So, cam is out, fresh apples down and a bit of cracked corn. Cover the apples with other stuff and they will stay longer and dig for it. Also, I know they are eating the cob and corn because it is disappearing faster than the birds can eat it. I'm going to let it soak for a few weeks and see how many pics I get when the apples are all eaten. My guess is that I will have half the pics by number with only cob/cracked corn/mineral blocks as when I have fresh apples out.
We'll see!
Post by: h20hunter on May 14, 2011, 09:32:28 AM
Anybody wants to chime in on blind timing please do. My plan is to set up a small one man pop up in a corner. The brush is thick and I can trim a bit and place a few feet back in. This will give me a 20 yard shot or so and give me a quartering away or broadside shot. How soon should I put my blind in? Will they get used to it pretty quick? Should I even use a pop up or simply brush it up and rely on my camo, scent control, and minimal movement?
Post by: AKBowman on May 17, 2011, 07:35:49 PM
Which season are you thinking about hunting? Early or late archery? Are there any trees around to hang a stand?
Post by: h20hunter on May 17, 2011, 07:43:55 PM
Post by: AKBowman on May 17, 2011, 09:07:21 PM
Maybe using estrus would help to keep a buck around during late season.
The later it gets in the early season I would look at putting your blind deeper into the timber/cover on entry trails a buck might be using. Look for the inobscure trails generally down wind of the main trails, these are the trails the BT bucks will be using until rut hits. Once they rub the velvet clean they are REALLY GENERALLY nocturnal and hard to kill until they get into the rut, prior to rubbing they will use the clear cuts during daylight hours.
PS- I have yet to kill a decent BT buck with my bow :)
Post by: h20hunter on May 17, 2011, 09:57:46 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 21, 2011, 10:01:21 AM
Post by: h20hunter on May 21, 2011, 10:02:53 AM
Post by: h20hunter on May 21, 2011, 10:05:07 AM
Post by: iRem on May 21, 2011, 11:05:50 AM
Post by: h20hunter on May 21, 2011, 05:46:24 PM
Post by: oldleclercrd on May 21, 2011, 05:57:19 PM
Post by: bowsandhose on May 21, 2011, 06:40:47 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 21, 2011, 07:08:56 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 29, 2011, 01:30:56 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 29, 2011, 01:31:38 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 29, 2011, 01:32:15 PM
Post by: oldleclercrd on May 29, 2011, 11:06:45 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 30, 2011, 06:35:20 AM
Post by: Tom Reichner on May 30, 2011, 10:49:10 AM
I can probably carry 30 pounds of apples in pretty easily, maybe even make two trips to really load it up. What about using a sled to haul a load in....hmmm.
30 pounds is good if you can replenish the area with another 30 pounds every other day. 100 pounds a week is minimal if you want to keep deer using the area on a consistent basis. If you bring 30 pounds in every other day for a month, you should establish some consistent deer use, provided no bears are in the area.
100 pounds twice a week would be much better.
Post by: h20hunter on May 30, 2011, 11:51:54 AM
Post by: blacktailcrzy on May 30, 2011, 08:00:21 PM
Post by: h20hunter on May 31, 2011, 07:17:24 AM
I have a market close to where I work. They quality is probably a step down from your local grocer and the market is...shall we say...a bit lower key. I buy them by the case a few here and there and pay cash. For example, the grocer at my local store will sell me a case on sale for 89 cents a pound, so about $37. A case runs anywhere from 40 to 45 lbs. I can get my local market guy to go as low as $21.50 a case.
Post by: blacktailcrzy on June 01, 2011, 05:56:00 PM
Post by: h20hunter on June 02, 2011, 07:19:56 AM
Post by: h20hunter on June 06, 2011, 07:19:59 AM
Not to be outdone and with one more case of apples I head back out yesterday morning. I get about about 2/3 thew way there, take care of some business, and begin to make my way. That is when I hear the tell tale rustling in the brush. Hmmm, jack a round in the AR (for apple stealing yotes) and continue. After on a few steps the linebacker charging up the hill above me appears to be spooked. Sounded like a lot of commotion. A few less apples and only a couple of pics on the cam. More poop. When I made it home later there was one pic of the back end of the little black bear facing the same direction I was coming from. My guess is that he heard me from a ways off and was interupted by the sound while having his morning apples. He decided to bug out. Problem is the path is the same one I was on. He probably came down a little bit, heard me rack a round, and decided to bail and run up the hill. Kind of fun.
So, cam is positioned better, two cases of apples out, fermenting cracked corn and cob mixture still getting fed on. Just more bear activity than deer at the moment.
Oh yeah, why they "Crappy" part of the update. Bear crap EVERYWHERE!!!
Have a good week and stay tuned for more bait cam fun. Hell, at least it hasn't been stolen.
Post by: iRem on June 06, 2011, 05:05:16 PM
:yeah:
Have a good week and stay tuned for more bait cam fun. Hell, at least it hasn't been stolen.
Keep the pics coming!! I haven't had a chance to pick up another camera, but I will soon. I might just search out a different GMU?
Post by: fish vacuum on June 06, 2011, 07:02:30 PM
I've also never been able to establish a good pattern with blacktails. And I won't pack in anything heavy. It's an hour walk in. About a quart of a liquid deer attractor and a mineral lick work fine. More bait might help develop a pattern but I'm hunting, not raising stock.
Post by: oldleclercrd on June 06, 2011, 09:12:10 PM
Post by: h20hunter on June 07, 2011, 07:22:55 AM
Post by: tsimp1211 on June 08, 2011, 05:16:08 PM
Deer do not like the sent of humnas even on apples. I once had apples laying out, and the deer seemed leary of them. So i took one and thew it at them, all does. after being startled they gre curious, then started eating them. other piles i have set up were only hit after the rain had killed off my scent. :twocents:Don't know if this has been said yet or not, but I have put apple cider in a sprayer and put out corn then sprayed the corn with the cider. I have also soaked corn in cider and put it out. Both will quickly attract deer, the latter with get you some bears too!
Post by: tsimp1211 on June 08, 2011, 05:19:28 PM
Post by: predatorpro on June 08, 2011, 10:43:26 PM
Thats a good point about the alfalfa. I bet I can find a feed store that will have something. Gonna be a tough one to hike in a 50lb bag.its so much fun! you better get 2 bags cuz you will definately want to do it again after you drop the first one off just for fun ;)
Post by: h20hunter on June 12, 2011, 11:53:09 AM
Keep checking back and we'll see if the bears try and eat my hat!
Post by: h20hunter on June 12, 2011, 11:55:22 AM
Post by: h20hunter on June 12, 2011, 11:56:22 AM
Post by: h20hunter on June 12, 2011, 11:57:24 AM
Post by: AKBowman on June 12, 2011, 06:27:00 PM
Post by: h20hunter on June 19, 2011, 10:35:16 AM
What I did find was my cam in worse shape than last time. It has one puncture wound to the face where the IF flash is and one buckle loop snapped off the back. I don't have any real great pics of the attack but I'll bet you know who is responsible. Plenty of bear action same day I was there but I don't know if the buck showed up. I've got two days of pics and the nothing but sky.
I have brought the cam in for repairs and will be bulding my own bear box over the next week.
Stupid bears.
Post by: h20hunter on June 19, 2011, 10:36:50 AM
Post by: h20hunter on June 19, 2011, 10:38:37 AM
Post by: Birdguy on June 19, 2011, 11:41:41 AM
Post by: h20hunter on June 19, 2011, 12:24:21 PM
Just goes to show...one long learning process.
Post by: h20hunter on June 21, 2011, 07:21:27 AM
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on June 21, 2011, 07:30:21 AM
Post by: h20hunter on June 21, 2011, 07:41:35 AM
Post by: Gamblin Guy on June 21, 2011, 07:52:26 AM
Enjoying this thread, thanks for posting. Not sure which metal box you are looking at but i've had good luck with these guys.
http://custom1enterprises.com/ (http://custom1enterprises.com/)
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on June 21, 2011, 07:57:08 AM
I modified an old electrical box and lag bolted it to a tree. A bear would probably break a tooth trying to bite that thing open.
Post by: h20hunter on June 21, 2011, 08:02:32 AM
Doggy....I have gotten some good pics of critters but at a a cost at this point. Apples will really bring them in. I look forward to your pics.
Post by: h20hunter on June 26, 2011, 01:24:01 PM
Post by: D-Rock425 on June 27, 2011, 12:39:24 PM
Post by: h20hunter on June 27, 2011, 12:44:28 PM
Also, per UPS tracking, my cam has made it back to Bushnell. Now, just have to wait and see what they say.
Post by: D-Rock425 on June 27, 2011, 01:28:25 PM
Post by: h20hunter on June 27, 2011, 01:38:26 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 05, 2011, 01:43:18 PM
http://www.cabelas.com/product/Bushnell-HD-Trophy-Cam-with-Black-and-White-Text-LCD/1199981.uts?WTz_l=Header%3BSearch-All+Products (http://www.cabelas.com/product/Bushnell-HD-Trophy-Cam-with-Black-and-White-Text-LCD/1199981.uts?WTz_l=Header%3BSearch-All+Products)
for $150.00 (less my $10 prepaid shipping) and throw in a new updated bear box for the new model no charge.
I'm thinking good deal but still thinking on it.
Input?
Post by: Special T on July 05, 2011, 03:20:53 PM
Post by: Big P on July 06, 2011, 07:19:27 PM
Post by: sebek556 on July 06, 2011, 07:21:58 PM
Post by: D-Rock425 on July 07, 2011, 06:38:48 AM
Post by: h20hunter on July 07, 2011, 07:15:01 AM
I will say that I am very pleased with Bushnell from a point of customer service. They mentioned that the whole repair dept got quite the chuckle from my repair request form. I guess they don't get a lot of "bear mauling" listed for symptom or concerns regarding camera function. Everyone I have spoken with and dealt with has been very helpfull and understanding of my wants and needs. I almost wonder if some of these folks actually spend time in the woods using some of their products. Hmmm..
Either way, nice folks and a very good customer service experience so far. Shoot, it is my own fault the camera got worked over, not theirs.
Stay tuned for new camera pics, video, and my newely customized bear box!
Post by: h20hunter on July 12, 2011, 02:26:52 PM
I'll say, very happy with Bushnell. They took good care of me and shipped my new cam quick.
Post by: h20hunter on July 12, 2011, 09:51:26 PM
Post by: wlandrum on July 13, 2011, 06:13:01 AM
Post by: iRem on July 13, 2011, 08:23:20 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 13, 2011, 09:44:21 PM
Post by: Special T on July 15, 2011, 09:23:35 AM
Post by: h20hunter on July 15, 2011, 09:43:47 AM
I am having a blast with my cam but this will be the last pricey one I buy. I have seen a lot of very good pics from others on the forum and would not have purchased another Bushnell if they had not offered me the discount. Not that I don't love the camera, just could not have justified the cash. However, they gave me a good price and came through with great customer service so I was good with it.
Post by: h20hunter on July 17, 2011, 01:58:57 PM
So, this time I didn't leave any apples. I bought two of those pressed blocks for deer and left them along with the trophy rock. My hope is the bear will be less interested since there are plenty of berries and things to eat instead of the block. We'll see.
Overall I'm very pleased with the new camera. It takes good video and you can hear the bear munching on apples from about 20 feet or so away. The pickup is a bit muffled I think because of the box. I was also glad to see that the spikes were not visible during filing.
I'm going to knock together a video compilation of the bear(s) and post up in the trail camera section. I'm really trying to keep this thread deer based but have to get them back in for that to happen. The cam is now set on 8 mp single shot with a 30 second delay from shot to shot.
We'll see if the bears bug off and the deer come back in.
Post by: seth30 on July 17, 2011, 02:29:21 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 17, 2011, 03:47:00 PM
Post by: seth30 on July 17, 2011, 04:03:53 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 17, 2011, 04:12:55 PM
Post by: seth30 on July 17, 2011, 04:15:03 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 17, 2011, 04:29:26 PM
Post by: DBHAWTHORNE on July 17, 2011, 09:37:57 PM
Yeah, wish I could and wish I had the cash. I have placed the order and they should ship it in a few days. They didn't end up throwing the bear box in for free. I guess the newest models are just a bit different so the custom boxes are a bit more expensive. They are charging me....get this....a whole $18.00 for the bear box. *censored*s!
I will say that I am very pleased with Bushnell from a point of customer service. They mentioned that the whole repair dept got quite the chuckle from my repair request form. I guess they don't get a lot of "bear mauling" listed for symptom or concerns regarding camera function. Everyone I have spoken with and dealt with has been very helpfull and understanding of my wants and needs. I almost wonder if some of these folks actually spend time in the woods using some of their products. Hmmm..
Either way, nice folks and a very good customer service experience so far. Shoot, it is my own fault the camera got worked over, not theirs.
Stay tuned for new camera pics, video, and my newely customized bear box!
It is good to hear your customer service experience with them has been good. Mine was quite the opposite...for two...on two different occasions with two different trophycams.
Post by: h2ofowlr on July 17, 2011, 10:07:38 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 18, 2011, 06:21:59 AM
Post by: oldcamper on July 18, 2011, 06:49:46 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 18, 2011, 07:16:22 PM
Post by: oldcamper on July 18, 2011, 07:23:10 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 23, 2011, 07:59:46 PM
Well, the idea that the pressed blocks won't appeal to the bears as much didn't really work out. Basically, they chew on them and roll them around like a tasty bear chew toy. I don't even thing the birds got a chance to peck at them. After reviewing the pics it looks like I have a lone boar of good size, a little fella that runs solo, and a momma with a little one in tow. I also had one close up of one of the bears head as it sniffed at the camera. Once again, it is unscathed.
The deer looked like they were around during hours that would offer good shooting light. I got a momma and yearling and then later on I got a single deer butt. Not sure if it was a buck or doe but am just happy to have some deer action. The deer were there in between bear visits so I'm still hoping this will be a huntable area for me when bow season comes in.
After our walks we did see our first bear. We were coming along the basin road a ways up, past the Lake Bronson nudie ranch, at about 5 pm. We were just chatting and talking about the walks and how nice it is to have the kids at home with the babysitter. I was just poking along at about 20 and out comes a little bear. I say, "well, theres a bear right in front of us". I stop the truck and do a quick check to make sure the camera is in the back of the truck with my gear, yep, it is. So, we just sit there for a minute or so and he walks right in front of the truck and stops in the far side shallow ditch. He stands there for about 30 seconds and is trying to figure out what to do now. Once he figures out that he should leave he just kind of lowers his head and walks off. Way cool. That was my first bear sigting in the open as well as the first for my wife. this was a pretty small bear, less than 100 lbs and a little more tan/cinn than black. It just capped off a nice time out checking the cam.
Here are a few pics from the new batch.
Post by: h20hunter on July 23, 2011, 08:01:09 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 29, 2011, 08:44:55 AM
Any bets on the winner?
Post by: dirty24d on July 29, 2011, 08:59:23 AM
Post by: h20hunter on July 29, 2011, 09:01:04 AM
Post by: dirty24d on July 29, 2011, 09:09:19 AM
Post by: h20hunter on July 29, 2011, 09:10:58 AM
Post by: dirty24d on July 29, 2011, 09:17:20 AM
Post by: oldleclercrd on July 29, 2011, 05:48:25 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 29, 2011, 07:59:21 PM
Post by: h20hunter on July 30, 2011, 10:36:18 AM
Welcome again huntaholics. In a nutshell. Last week the bears waited less than two hours to come in and work over the blocks. Got 400 and some pics of bears, a yote, a surveyor, his massive rotweiller...and no deer. This time I left behind a buffett of peanuts, buckbran, and cob. There is also another redspot salt block I had. I'm going to leave it for about 3 weeks while I bear hunt elsewhere and see what happens. I hope that once the bait is depleted the bears will be less frequent and the deer will start traveling there more as we get towards September. I posted a bunch of pics in my trail cam thread so for brevity I'll post a pic of the buffett and wait until I have something other than bears to post here.
Post by: AKBowman on July 31, 2011, 03:52:13 PM
I hate to be the one to tell you but maybe you should think about relocating, or stop baiting that area. Sounds like there was more deer activity there maybe before you started baiting. Once the bears find it they will not leave and the deer find other areas where they can relax without the pressure
Post by: h20hunter on August 01, 2011, 06:18:51 AM
Post by: sticky on August 03, 2011, 09:43:39 AM
To my way of thinking, baiting isn't all that different than growing a field of clover and ambushing Bambi at dinner time.
Post by: h20hunter on August 03, 2011, 09:45:59 AM
If there is a bear around he/she will find your bait. I am not going to put anything out anymore to see what is travelling the area. I have way to many bears at my site and the baiting may have shut down the deer. Time will tell and I'll keep posting on this thread regardless.
Post by: h20hunter on August 03, 2011, 09:47:02 AM
Post by: MtnMuley on August 03, 2011, 04:19:13 PM
You can bait for anything except bear/fowl/cats.
You can bait cats.
Post by: huntnnw on August 03, 2011, 10:49:19 PM
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2011, 07:15:52 AM
The buffet showed the cob to be the clear winner. The fat ol bears would just lay right down and put their face right in it. I did get a few pics of them licking the blocks which is cool. As far as the peanuts...all eaten with only the shells. It tooked like the bears and whatever else would chomp them and then eat the nuts after the shells were chewed up.
Thanks go out to the two guys that were checking out MY SPOT. Kidding here. It is a free country and open ground, hunt away fellas. Thank your for not jacking with my cam, the metal box, or the spike screws sticking out of it. Also, thanks for not chucking my salt block and trophy rock over the hill.
Here is some of the pics from the last few days. The first set is pretty interesting. Note the time stamp.
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2011, 07:19:10 AM
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2011, 07:21:48 AM
I will not be taking in any more food for the bears. Hope the deer keep coming and maybe pick up the pace a bit.
Post by: D-Rock425 on August 04, 2011, 07:47:42 AM
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2011, 07:53:41 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on August 04, 2011, 08:21:00 AM
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2011, 08:32:54 AM
Post by: D-Rock425 on August 04, 2011, 09:07:07 AM
Post by: mallard79 on August 04, 2011, 12:21:22 PM
Post by: coachcw on August 04, 2011, 12:42:07 PM
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2011, 01:10:38 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 02, 2011, 01:06:44 PM
I have had some action since the last post. Mainly bears and hunters. Since I stopped putting feed out the bears have dropped off about 80%. I'll be hunting the corner for the first time this evening. I'm hoping I get a chance at either two bucks that have been seen, the spike, or eventually a doe gives me a shot.
For those that know exactly (Dirty) and for the few that have hunted this spot please keep your eyes out for some pink trail tape. Wed evening I was hunting an area about a mile from my spot for bears. Had a guy come in, see me, and sit not 20 yards away on the same clearning. Now, this clearning is small enough for one guy to cover the whole thing with a rifle. I ASSUME he would not have shot if a bear came in. However, it got me thinking. So, at the base of my trail I'm string a piece of tape across with "bowhunter ahead" warning. This is not at all a honey hole so hopefully people will see it and not continue up the trail.
Wish me luck.
Post by: Skillet on September 02, 2011, 01:13:03 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 02, 2011, 01:16:09 PM
Post by: Skillet on September 02, 2011, 01:23:14 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 02, 2011, 01:37:31 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 02, 2011, 09:58:40 PM
Here are a few pics from the cam since I last checked.
Post by: Malardman on September 03, 2011, 09:58:09 PM
Post by: Goldeneye on September 05, 2011, 09:43:29 PM
Post by: ghosthunter on September 05, 2011, 11:25:58 PM
Sounds like a good time. You'll dump something soon. Pick yourself up a Taurus Judge and you'll have a pistol that shoots both 45 LC and .410 shotshells. My Judge puts the hurt on grouse. Haven't needed the .45 LC for anything yet.
:yeah: ;)
Post by: Ranger91298 on September 08, 2011, 09:30:26 PM
Post by: dirty24d on September 08, 2011, 09:52:05 PM
Truck is packed. Book is in pack. Rifle is ready. Rounds are double checked. Arrows are tipped. Seat is there. Sticks are there. Machete, gloves, head cover, boots, knives, tarps, all ready. FJ loaded down. I'm ready for a deer with the bow or a bear with my rifle. If that silly bear comes over the hill he's a gonner. If deer come out in front of me...yep, gonner. Gonna sit all day. Its my day. Gonna whack something...I can feel it.
I'll be around for most of the day tomorrow. You know the drill call and text me if you need a hand!! Knock something down!!!!!!
Post by: Goldeneye on September 08, 2011, 10:00:47 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 09, 2011, 09:18:13 PM
Did you sneak up on me this afternoon?
I went, I hunted, I saw nothing. I did meet up with D-Rocks cousin at the gate. He spooked a bear that was lurking in the brush but this stuff is so think and marshy you wouldn't ever have a chance of going in and finding boo boo. I did some huge black red headed woodpecker looking birds. They kept flitting around and basically banging the hell out of every individual piece of tree and downed wood in the area. I swear I almost shot one for kicks and giggles.
Now regarding the napping. Yes, yes, I did take a nap. I swear I was about falling off my little chair. So, I just kicked back, closed my eyes, dozed a bit.
Overall a nice day and evening hunt.
Post by: Goldeneye on September 09, 2011, 09:25:33 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 10, 2011, 01:35:35 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 17, 2011, 04:11:47 PM
However, I did have some deer on my cam from this morning. I was in the woods at 6 and had deer milling around the camera at 3 am this morning. I'll post a few pics of what I have but they are not very good. Some *censored* hiker person draped some stuff over my camera yesterday. I posted what I have of the offending person in my trail cam thread. Here are a few that I have of deer from this morning.
Post by: h20hunter on September 21, 2011, 12:05:30 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 22, 2011, 07:39:57 AM
Post by: Rooster1981 on September 22, 2011, 08:18:23 AM
I just read the entire thread, very cool :tup:
Thanks for shareing
Post by: h20hunter on September 22, 2011, 08:19:16 AM
Post by: h20hunter on September 23, 2011, 08:18:19 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 24, 2011, 04:47:56 PM
Thanks to those that have followed and offered advice and help learning some areas. If anyone new stumbles upon this thread and wants to ask a few questions please do. However, for this one, it's done. The cam has been pulled. Come Jan 1st I'll have a new spot, new dreams of blacktail bucks with chocolate horns, and a new thread. Here is a final pic or two for you.
Cheers
H20Hunter
Post by: dscubame on September 24, 2011, 04:51:32 PM
Post by: h20hunter on September 24, 2011, 05:06:22 PM
Post by: Wahunter555 on October 03, 2011, 10:00:57 PM
Post by: lablover on October 04, 2011, 06:52:31 AM
Post by: doyourtime89 on August 04, 2012, 12:25:56 PM
Post by: h20hunter on August 04, 2012, 12:33:37 PM
Post by: h20hunter on February 28, 2013, 11:58:23 AM