Larry A. Smail's Blog

Sunrise

We all debate issues within our thoughts. I know my mind never ceases to stop. The big debate for me Sunday evening and Monday was to shoot a Jake this day if the opportunity to do so happened. That debate was tossed around within.                                        

Mayapple Blossom

I couldn’t believe I heard no gobbling on the roost this morning. The    morning was clear, and calm. Also, there was a frost everywhere. I sought out areas where the sun was hitting the surface  unaltered with limbs, and leaves. The sun felt good!

I leaned against a gas well to enjoy the warmth. A robin landed within inches of my head. Her wings stirred me since I did doze off. The local farmer was doing something down over the hill when nine deer ran up to me. Four were bucks! Later, I would see a doe, and her two fawns. The tractor moved them out!

Fawn

I elected to go farther south to another hunting spot. At this site I began a walking, listening, an calling maneuver.  Approximately, 10:30 A.M. I was greeted with a gobble. I set up, and began to work the bird.(s) I, soon, realized there were three gobblers. I suspected three jakes.

My turkey. The hunt was an exciting one!

After, a time, I spotted them about 35 yards away. Leaf out did not allow me to see beards well. We played around for another fifteen minutes. They were CLOSE!  Finally, I saw the first head coming from among the vegetation. Jake…jake… jake… three jakes!  Now, the debate was compressed within milliseconds. I remember thinking about the sickness I recently endured, the allergies  causing me troubles, and BAMMMM! Decision made, the hunter mode took over. (Right Frankie? We understand that mode!) The shot was twenty-one yards.

Scarlet Tanager

I was about a mile from the jeep. This would be a great opportunity to try out my new Turkey Tote!  Last spring, a number of turkey call makers got together for breakfast. I was invited. I met Harry Roming of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He needed deer antlers. I had deer antlers. I gave him a number of antlers, and he insisted on making me a Turkey Tote. Well, Harry the tote worked great! If interested contact Harry at 717-599-5675.

I saw a lot of birdlife this day. Scarlet tanagers; orioles; warblers….

Harry Roming Turkey Tote!