Wild Turkeys By Noppadol Paothong

Missouri Department of Conservation

JEFFERSON CITY Mo --(Ammoland.com)- Bowhunters posted increases in both deer and turkey harvests during Missouri’s 2011-12 archery deer and turkey hunting seasons, topping the previous year’s figures by more than one-third.

Hunters checked 52,671 deer during the four-month archery season. That is an increase of 10,299 (24 percent) from the previous year. Archers checked 2,923 turkeys, an increase of 739 (33.8 percent) from the 2010-2011 season.

Jason Isabelle, a resource scientist for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), said two factors probably contributed to the increased archery turkey harvest.

“I attribute the increase in harvest to the good hatch that we had last year in most of the state and to increased archery permit sales,” said Isabelle. “There were both more turkeys and more archers in the woods in 2011 than in 2010.”

MDC sold 110,647 archery hunting permits and issued another 82,486 no-cost landowner archer’s permits last year. The total of 190,133 archery permits is a record and continues a long-term trend of increasing interest in archery hunting.

“More people discover the enjoyment of archery season every year,” said Isabelle. “The challenge of bowhunting appeals to many hunters who start with firearms. For others, the attraction is a huge increase in hunting opportunity. For quite a few hunters, opening day of deer season can’t come soon enough and closing day comes too soon. Taking up the bow and arrow allows them to pursue their outdoor passion all fall and into winter.”

MDC Resource Scientist Jason Sumners said the reason for this year’s increased archery deer harvest is harder to nail down.

“Over the past decade we have seen a steady increase in the number of archery hunters and a resulting increase in archery harvest,” said Sumners. “However, that doesn’t explain the fluctuations we see in archery harvest from year to year. There are likely other factors at work that create annual variation in hunter effort or success. We had very mild weather last fall, and that might have caused hunters to spend more time pursuing deer. But there is still a lot we don’t know about the relationship between weather and hunter behavior and other factors that affect archery harvest.”

Sumners said he hopes to explore those factors in the future to gain a better understanding of what causes sizeable archery harvest fluctuations like those that have occurred over the last four years. For example, the deer archery harvest increased from 44,434 in 2008 to a record 51,972 in 2009 and went back down to 43,281 in 2010.

Missouri’s 2011-2012 archery and firearms deer harvests total 291,592. That is up 6 percent from the previous year. The 2011-2012 firearms and archery turkey harvests total 52,226, down 3.8 percent from the previous year.

The top archery deer-harvest counties were Jefferson with 1,092 deer checked, Franklin with 1,088 and Jackson with 1,040. Top archery turkey-harvest counties were Callaway with 76 turkeys checked, Franklin with 67 and Jefferson with 58.

All of the top counties for archery deer and turkey harvest were in or near metropolitan areas. Isabelle and Sumners agree this probably is largely because all four counties are within easy driving distance of large numbers of hunters. Also, Callaway and Franklin counties are larger than average, and both have excellent deer and turkey habitat.

“Those four counties are natural choices for folks who live in nearby cities,” said Isabelle. “Franklin and Callaway counties are between the St. Louis and Columbia-Jefferson City areas and have some of the best turkey habitat in the state. Jefferson and Jackson counties are right at the edge of the state’s two largest metropolitan areas, so it’s not surprising that lots of archers would spend time hunting there.”

MDC recorded eight firearms-related deer-hunting incidents during the 2011-2012 hunting season. One was fatal.

-Jim Low-

To follow MDC on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or Flickr, or to receive RSS feeds, visit www.mdc.mo.gov. and click on the icons at the bottom of the page.

Elliott Jonasson of La Grande, with a turkey taken in the Catherine Creek Unit (Union County) during the 2011 youth spring turkey season. - Photo by ODFW

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

SALEM, Ore --(Ammoland.com)- This year’s youth spring turkey season will be April 7, 8 and 9, 2012 (Saturday, Sunday and Monday).

The season dates are misprinted in the current 2011-12 Oregon Game Bird Regulations (page 15).

Due to an ODFW staff error, the regulations list April 8-9, 2012 (Sunday-Monday) as the season dates.

Youth turkey season is always the weekend before the general spring turkey season which begins on April 15.

The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted a rule that will begin the season on Saturday, April 7 and extend it by one day this year due to the error.

The youth spring turkey season is open to licensed hunters age 17 and under.

Youth that don’t fill their tag during the youth season can go on to hunt the general season April 15-May 31.

The youth turkey season is one of several youth-only hunts in Oregon.

Mossberg 510 Mini THUG ShotGun

Mossberg

North Haven, CT --(Ammoland.com)- Building on the strength of the Mossberg and Mossy Oak Turkey THUGS partnership, Mossberg is adding five new shotguns to their Turkey THUG Series; two 12-gauge 500 pump-action shotguns and three 20-gauge guns including an autoloader, 510 Mini THUG and 6-position, adjustable stock “tactical” version.

Each of these field-proven shotguns has the latest turkey-taking features and proudly wears the “Turkey THUGS” (Today’s Hunters United for Good) logo on the receiver.

Mossy Oak contributes proceeds from THUGS merchandise sales to the Wounded Warrior Program.

500 Turkey THUG Tactical - Available in 12-gauge, 3-inch and 20-gauge, 3-inch versions, these pump-actions feature an adjustable length of pull (LOP) tactical-style, synthetic stock for customizing fit. The LOP instantly adjusts from 10 3/4 inches to 14 5/8 inches with a simple click of the adjustment latch. The stock also features a convenient molded shell holder for storing up to five extra rounds (12-gauge only). A durable webbed forend sling with dual-attachment points provides for a more positive grip on the forend and faster follow-up shots. Stock, forend and exposed metalwork are fully camouflaged in Mossy Oak Obsession®, which combines traditional shadows and tree limbs with spring color elements for the ultimate concealment in the spring woods. Compact 20-inch vent rib barrels offer optimal maneuverability and adjustable fiber optic sights quickly get you on target in low-light conditions.

Mossberg Turkey THUG LPA 20ga Shotgun

The 12-gauge Turkey THUG Tactical also features Mossberg’s user-adjustable LPA™ (Lightning Pump Action™) trigger for a creep-free, rifle-like trigger pull with 3 to 8 pound adjustment range and our X-FACTOR™ Ported choke tube for unrivaled patterns. The 20-gauge version features Mossberg’s ACCU-CHOKE™ Extended Turkey choke tube. A padded camo sling and convenient stock and magazine cap swivel studs complete these featured-packed shotguns.

500 THUG ‘N Slug Combo – For ultimate versatility, this 12-gauge, 3-inch pump-action comes with two barrel options, making the 500 THUG ‘N Slug at home in the turkey woods or when chasing whitetails in the fall. A 24-inch ported barrel with adjustable fiber optic sights and XX-Full Turkey choke tube and a 24-inch fluted, fully-rifled barrel with adjustable rifle sights are included. Our patent-pending LPA trigger delivers rifle-like precision and consistent trigger pull, shot after shot, and is user-adjustable from 3 to 8 pounds. The durable synthetic stock and forend, exposed metalwork and two-barrel set are fully-camouflaged with Mossy Oak Break-Up® Infinity™. With its multi-dimensional detail and contrast, this camo offers hunters unequalled concealment regardless of the terrain. With handy swivel stud attachments, add the matching sling and you are ready to go afield with the 500 THUG ‘N Slug!

510 Mini THUG – Time spent in the field with your son, daughter or grandchild can be the most memorable. Now that young hunter can have his or her own turkey shotgun with the Mossberg 510 Mini THUG (Super Bantam-style) 20-gauge, 3-inch shotgun with adjustable LOP stock. This well-balanced pump-action features shorter overall length of just over 34 inches, compact 18 ½-inch barrel and weighs in at a mere 5 pounds. Proper fit and comfort are key to a young shooter’s first experiences in the field and with the 510 Mini THUG, you can adjust the length of the stock (10 ½ to 11 ½ inches) with the included insert as they grow. The 510 Mini isn’t short on features with its versatile ACCU-CHOKE, vent rib barrel; dual bead sights; sling swivel studs; padded camo sling; and full Mossy Oak Obsession coverage.

Mossberg SA-20 Turkey THUG ShotGun

SA-20 Turkey THUG – With today’s high performance shotshell technology, 20-gauge guns are becoming more popular in the turkey woods but the selection of smaller bore autoloaders for turkey hunting has been limited. Mossberg is pleased to add a dedicated turkey gun to their Mossberg International™ SA-20 Autoloader line: the SA-20 Turkey THUG. This rugged 3-inch, all-purpose gun features a gas-operating system which reduces recoil and stress on the operating components; 22-inch ported vent rib barrel with Extended Turkey choke tube; fiber optic Dead Ringer® Beard Buster sights (green front with red ghost ring mid-sight); drilled and tapped receiver with included weaver-style base for ease of adding optics; swivel studs; and padded camo sling. Exposed metalwork wears a matte blue finish and the stock and forend feature Mossy Oak Obsession camo.

These five full-featured turkey guns join the existing 12-gauge Mossberg Turkey THUG line-up: 500 Turkey THUG (black matte); 835 Ulti-Mag Turkey THUG Red Dot Combo (Infinity); 535 ATS™ Turkey THUG Pistol Grip (Infinity) and 535 ATS Turkey THUG Pistol Grip Red Dot Combo (Infinity). Join the Mossy Oak team in the field this spring with your exclusive “Turkey THUGS” shotgun.

Mossy Oak, Turkey THUGS, Obsession and Break-Up Infinity are registered trademarks of Haas Outdoors, Inc. Dead Ringer is a registered trademark of Dead Ringer, LLC.

About O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.
Founded in 1919, O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. is the oldest family-owned firearms manufacturer in America, and is the largest pump-action shotgun manufacturer in the world. Leading the way with over 100 design and utility patents to its credit, and standing as the first ISO 9001 Certified long-gun manufacturer, Mossberg is considered to be one of the most innovative firearms manufacturers in U.S. History. For more information on commercial, special purpose, law enforcement and military shotguns, rifles and accessories, please visit their website at www.mossberg.com.

Wild Turkeys By Noppadol Paothong

Missouri Department of Conservation

JEFFERSON CITY Mo --(Ammoland.com)- Turkey hunters have until Feb. 29 to apply for managed hunts during Missouri’s 2012 spring turkey season.

All 19 managed turkey hunts are listed in the “2012 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklet.

The booklet, along with other information on spring turkey hunting, is available online at www.mdc.mo.gov by searching “Spring Turkey Hunting.”

The booklet and website have application instructions, outlook information on Missouri’s turkey population, conservation areas where turkey hunting is allowed, related regulations and more. The print version of the booklet will be available from hunting permit vendors and at MDC offices in mid-February.

In addition to 11 hunts open to all firearms turkey hunters, this year’s offerings include a managed hunt for archers, five hunts for youths age 11 through 15 and two hunts for people with disabilities. Managed hunts will take place during the youth turkey season, March 31 to April 1, or regular turkey season, April 16 through May 6.

Hunters may apply individually or in groups of up to three for most hunts. Youth hunts accept applications only for single hunters or pairs. An individual applying as a member of a party has the same chance of being drawn as someone who applies alone. Successful applicants will receive notice of their hunt dates and other information by mail. Drawing results will be posted March 14 through May 6 at www.mdc.mo.gov/hunt/turkey.

For the youth hunt and hunt for people with disabilities at Smithville Lake, applications should be made by phone by calling 816-858-5718. To apply for the hunt for people with disabilities at Bois D’Arc CA, call 417-742-4361. Applications for other hunts should be made online at www.mdc.mo.gov/hunt/turkey.

The number of hunters allowed to take part in each managed hunt ranges from 10 to 40. Participants in some hunts must complete a pre-hunt orientation. Hunters should not to apply for these hunts if they cannot attend the orientation.

The bag limit for managed hunts is one male turkey or turkey with visible beard. Turkeys taken during a managed hunt count toward the season limit of two. Hunters who shoot a turkey during a managed hunt before April 23 may not take another turkey during the first week of the regular turkey season. All-terrain vehicles are prohibited on areas with managed turkey hunts.

Stoeger Limited Edition P-350 Turkey Gun

Stoeger Firearms

ACCOKEEK, MD --(Ammoland.com)- The Stoeger P-350 pump action shotgun is now available in a turkey gun configuration featuring Stoeger’s new and improved SteadyGrip stock.

This newly designed stock allows a steadier positive grip for optimum shooting control. This shotgun features a 20-inch cantilevered barrel that will easily accommodate accessory optics and will be available in a “Limited Edition” only.

An extended extra-full turkey choke comes standard with the gun, while extra accessory chokes are available online or through local authorized dealers. Fitting an open-choke constriction allows this turkey gun to also fire slug ammunition making it suitable as a fall-season deer shotgun.

The reliable Stoeger P-350 pump-action shotgun is designed to fire any 12-gauge ammunition, from light target loads to 3½-inch magnums. The fore-end is ergonomically designed to fit the hand comfortably with distinct ridges that provide a positive gripping surface with or without gloves and regardless of temperature or weather conditions. An optional 13-ounce, mercury-filled recoil reducer tames the kick of heavy ammunition.

“Stoeger’s P-350 offers turkey hunters amazing value for price,” said Stephen McKelvain, Benelli USA’s VP Marketing & Communications. “Not only does this serve as an ideal gun for turkeys but load it with slug ammo and you’re ready for deer.”

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Gauge: 12-Gauge
• Barrel Length: 20”
• Sights: Cantilever mount (Optics not included)
• Finish: Realtree APG
• Stock Material: Synthetic, SteadyGrip
• Average Weight: 6.2 lbs.
• Overall Length: 41.75”
• Length of Pull: 14⅜”
• Drop at heel: 2”
• Drop at Comb: 1⅜”
• MSRP: $479

For the latest news and product information visit www.stoegerindustries.com

MOJO Outdoors Introduces New Motion Turkey Decoys at SHOT Show 2012

Mojo OutDoors

Monroe, LA -(Ammoland.com)- It is with great excitement that MOJO Outdoors, the World Leader in motion decoys, announces their entry into the motion turkey decoy market at the 2012 SHOT Show with the debut of the Mojo Fan Tom and the Mojo Tail Chaser.

The MOJO Fan Tom:
MOJO introduces the ideal combination of effectiveness coupled with portability and ease of use with the new Fan*Tom (Fantom) which is a string-operated stake and frame, which raises and lowers a realistic looking gobbler fan.

MOJO OutDoors Fan Tom

The MOJO Fan*Tom boils the turkey decoy down to only the essential, effective components: the tail fan and motion.

It comes complete with the motion frame, ground stake, 100 feet of string and realistic gobbler fan.

MOJO Tail Chaser:
The most experienced turkey hunters know that (while it may not seem reasonable) a hunter can actually “hide” behind a single gobbler fan.

To allow all hunters to use this innovative and proven technique, MOJO Introduces the TAIL CHASER, which is the only decoy made for the Tail Gunner and Turkey Fanner.

The MOJO Tail Chaser allows you to clamp a tail fan to anything: Shotguns, bows, decoys, tree branches…anything you want a Tom to charge.

The TAIL CHASER is the most effective “run and gun” product ever devised for turkey hunting.

Visit MOJO Outdoors Booth #1452 for the complete 2012 lineup of new products. And Remember…It Ain’t MAGIC – If It Ain’t MOJO!

About:
MOJO Outdoors™ is the number one maker of motion decoys in the world… but we are also much more than that! MOJO Outdoors™ began life in the State of Louisiana with the invention and development, by real hunters, of the MOJO Mallard® Spinning Wing Duck Decoy, which went on to become a phenomena in the world of duck hunting. With its realistic body, its large and practically unstoppable direct drive motor, highly reflective aluminum wings and rugged, dependable operation, it quickly took the market, making the name “MOJO” synonymous with “quality and success”.

Stoeger Limited Edition P-350 Turkey Gun

Stoeger Firearms

ACCOKEEK, MD --(Ammoland.com)- The Stoeger P-350 pump action shotgun is now available in a turkey gun configuration featuring Stoeger’s new and improved SteadyGrip stock.

This newly designed stock allows a steadier positive grip for optimum shooting control. This shotgun features a 20-inch cantilevered barrel that will easily accommodate accessory optics and will be available in a “Limited Edition” only.

An extended extra-full turkey choke comes standard with the gun, while extra accessory chokes are available online or through local authorized dealers. Fitting an open-choke constriction allows this turkey gun to also fire slug ammunition making it suitable as a fall-season deer shotgun.

The reliable Stoeger P-350 pump-action shotgun is designed to fire any 12-gauge ammunition, from light target loads to 3½-inch magnums. The fore-end is ergonomically designed to fit the hand comfortably with distinct ridges that provide a positive gripping surface with or without gloves and regardless of temperature or weather conditions. An optional 13-ounce, mercury-filled recoil reducer tames the kick of heavy ammunition.

“Stoeger’s P-350 offers turkey hunters amazing value for price,” said Stephen McKelvain, Benelli USA’s VP Marketing & Communications. “Not only does this serve as an ideal gun for turkeys but load it with slug ammo and you’re ready for deer.”

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Gauge: 12-Gauge
• Barrel Length: 20”
• Sights: Cantilever mount
• Finish: Realtree APG
• Stock Material: Synthetic, SteadyGrip
• Average Weight: 6.2 lbs.
• Overall Length: 41.75”
• Length of Pull: 14⅜”
• Drop at heel: 2”
• Drop at Comb: 1⅜”
• MSRP: $479

For the latest news and product information visit www.stoegerindustries.com

California Offers One-day Turkey Hunting Clinic in February

California Department Of Fish And Game

California --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Advanced Hunter Education Program is offering a turkey hunting clinic Feb. 18 at Tejon Ranch in Kern County.

Jointly sponsored by DFG, the Hunter Education Instructor Association of Southern California and Tejon Ranch, this clinic is open to hunters of all ages and skill levels.

Experienced instructor and longtime turkey hunter Dave Holbrock will lead this exciting clinic.

Topics to be covered include decoy placement, blind design, ballistics, calling, equipment, game care and cleaning, cooking tips and safety.

The clinic starts at 9 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. The cost is $45 and space is limited.

Youths 16 years and younger are free but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. DFG’s Advanced Hunter Education Program will provide all necessary class equipment.

Registration forms are available online at www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/advanced/index.aspx. After registering, participants will receive an e-mail with a map to the facility and a list of items to bring.

Tejon Ranch is located along Interstate 5, approximately 30 miles south of Bakersfield and 60 miles north of Los Angeles.

Escort TURKEY EXTREME Semi-Auto Shotgun

Legacy Sports International

Reno, NV - -(Ammoland.com)- Legacy Sports International announces their new Escort TURKEY EXTREME semi-auto shotgun model!

Dipped with Realtree AP camo, this new design shotgun features HiVis sights and a Hevi•Shot Turkey choke tube to bring you an exclusive, high performance EXTREME turkey hunting shotgun!

First, the Escort TURKEY EXTREME features the addition of non-slip grip pads on the pistol grip that give you a superior hold in all weather conditions.

These grip panels look great and are strategically placed to give you the wet weather grip you need to control your shot. The pistol grip is much more vertical – like a tactical shotgun – bringing extra control and stability under recoil.

The top of the receiver is fitted with a Picatinny-style sight rail and the stock has a convenient, two-round shell pocket to carry extra ammo. Escort shotguns also have SMART Valve gas pistons that regulate gas blowback to cycle every round – from 2.75 inch range loads through 3.5 inch heavy magnums.

Escorts also have FAST loading systems that allow one-handed round changes without changing aiming position. Adding Realtree AP™ camo makes this shotgun invisible in the field. We are also offering a HiVis fiber optic front sight and ghost ring rear sight to enhance sight acquisition.

The Escort TURKEY EXTREME comes with five (5) interchangeable chokes for its 24 inch barrel, PLUS a Hevi•Shot turkey extended choke tube to round out the perfect hunting machine. All of this at half the price of other, similarly featured shotguns!

Escort Turkey Extreme Features:

• • Realtree AP Camo Pattern
• • Fast Cycling, Gas Actuated Action
• • FAST Loading System
• • SMART Valve Cycling System
• • Positive Trigger Guard Button Safety
• • Magazine Cut Off
• • Chrome Moly Lined 12 Gauge Barrel Proofed for Steel Shot
• • Rifle-style Fiber Optic Front and Ghost Ring Rear Sights
• • Synthetic Stock with Vertical Pistol Grip
• • Shell Pocket Built Into Stock
• • 4 + 1 Magazine Capacity
• • Six Choke Tubes: Sk, IM, M, IC, F and Turkey
• • Chambered for 3 Inch Magnum Rounds
• • 24” Barrel Length
• • Sling Swivel Studs Attached
• MSRP: $673.00

About:
Legacy Sports International, LLC is an importer of firearms and shooting accessories. Bringing in high quality, reliable and affordable products for shooting and hunting enthusiasts is the mission of Legacy Sports’ business. With well-respected brands including Howa and Puma rifles, Nikko Stirling optics, Escort shotguns, and Citadel handguns and shotguns. This is why Legacy Sports is known as “The Most Trusted Name in the Shooting Industry.” For more information contact: www.legacysports.com

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Louisiana --(Ammoland.com)- The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ (LDWF) 2012 Turkey Regulations pamphlet is now available. Hunters can obtain the pamphlet at any hunting license vendor outlet or via the LDWF website.

The regulations pamphlet includes changes in the 2012 turkey season framework that provide for a uniform statewide opening on the fourth Saturday in March.

The season will open March 24 in three designated areas with varying end of season dates as follows: Area A, March 24 to April 22; Area B, March 24 to April 15; and Area C, March 24 to April 8. The daily bag limit is one gobbler, and the season limit is two gobblers.

Special private land youth hunts for those 17 years of age and younger, and hunts for wheelchair confined hunters, will take place on March 17-18, 2012 in all areas. The regulations pamphlet also includes turkey season dates for other WMAs, Kisatchie National Forest and National Wildlife Refuges.

Hunters are advised that the printed version of the 2012 Turkey Regulations does not list the West Bay Wildlife Management Area (WMA) lottery hunt dates for March and April. Those dates are March 24-25, March 31-April 1, and April 7-8. Those dates are listed in the updated 2012 Turkey Regulations document posted on the LDWF website at http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/hunting/turkey.

The application forms for 2012 Turkey Season WMA lottery hunts for regular and youth hunters are also now available on the LDWF website. Those forms are located at http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/hunting/lottery-hunts.

For more information, contact Jimmy Stafford at 225-765-2361 or jstafford@wlf.la.gov.

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.

Bubba Stevens won the NWTF Video Contest with a video celebrating "Hunters: Champions of Conservation".

National Wild Turkey Federation

EDGEFIELD, S.C. --(Ammoland.com)- Bubba Stevens of Senoia, Ga., prevailed over a strong field of competitors to win the 2011 NWTF Video Contest and an all-expenses-paid Osceola turkey hunt at Rafter T Ranch in Sebring, Fla.

In addition to the three-day Osceola hunt, Stevens will receive a CZ-USA Upland Ultralight 12-gauge and a gear package from Bass Pro Shops.

“I’m so excited I’m trying not to throw up in my office,” said Stevens, a project manager with a turn-key site contractor. “I was tossing and turning the last couple nights waiting to see if I won.”

Stevens outpolled four other finalists on the NWTF’s Facebook page to earn the hunt of a lifetime. Voters selected from videos that celebrated “Hunters: Champions of Conservation”, the theme for the 2012 NWTF national convention.

“We had several outstanding entries that demonstrated the passion for conservation shared by our members,” NWTF public relations director Brent Lawrence said. “We congratulate Bubba for his winning effort.”

Stevens’ 14-year-old son Cole filmed the winning video. Stevens was a finalist in the 2010 NWTF Video Contest.

“We’ve kind of been waiting for another chance since last year,” Stevens said. “I had a lot of support. I’m very grateful to all the vote who took the time to vote for me.”

The NWTF is the leader in upland wildlife habitat conservation in North America. A nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage, the NWTF and its volunteers work closely with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies and other partners.

Through these dynamic partnerships, the NWTF and its members helped restore wild turkey populations throughout North America, spending more than $372 million to conserve 17 million acres of habitat.

To become a member of the NWTF, join a committee or start a chapter, visit www.nwtf.org or call 800-THE-NWTF. The NWTF is also at www.facebook.com/theNWTF.

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

LITTLE ROCK, AR --(Ammoland.com)- Commissioners with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission last week shortened the turkey season from last year’s total of 18 days to 16 days.

The season framework was approved after a review of recent harvests and brood surveys along with input from turkey hunters.

The statewide turkey season will be April 14-29 in zones 1, 2, 3, 4B, 5, 5B, 6, 7, 7A, 8, 9, 10 and 17 with a bag limit of two bearded turkeys and no jakes, except for a single jake that youth hunters may harvest. In zones 4, 4A, 5A and 9A the season will be April 14-24 with a bag limit of one bearded turkey and no jakes, except for a single jake that youth hunters may harvest. Zone 1A will be closed. The 2012 youth turkey season hunt will be April 7-8 in all open zones.

The bag limit for the season will be no more than one legal turkey taken per day and no more than two legal turkeys taken in any combination of open turkey zones. Youth may only take one jake during the season, either during the youth hunt or statewide hunt, but adult hunters will be limited to mature gobblers only.

In other business, the Commission:

• *Approved a grant to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to be used for conservation fundraising purposes. The grant includes an either-sex elk permit for the September 2012 elk hunt. The permit will be auctioned at the Arkansas RMEF banquet. Money generated will be used for elk habitat improvements, public education and research.
• *Approved $34,844 for the purchase of new life jackets for the AGFC’s wildlife officers.
• *Approved a budget increase of $113,231 for the purchase of new Glock pistols for AGFC wildlife officers. The new guns will replace existing weapons that are as old as 19 years.
• *Approved a pass through Federal Boating Infrastructure Grant, sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, for $100,000 to be used for the construction of the Hastings Bay Marina on Arkansas River in North Little Rock. The facilities will be built to accommodate transient boats in excess of 26 feet on the river.
• *Authorized an increase of $173,732 in the spending limit from funds already budgeted for consulting engineering services on Dam #3 at the Jim Hinkle Spring River State Fish Hatchery. The engineering firm of Crist Engineers, Inc. of Little Rock was chosen for the work.
• *Approved five Marine Fuel Tax fund projects around the state. The City of Clarksville will match $42,955 to pave the parking area at Lake Ludwig. Total cost of the project is $85,910. Desha County requested $67,000 to chip and seal the parking area and access road at Lake Kate Adams. The City of Oil Trough will received $82,518 from the tax to be used to pave and increase the size of the parking area at the White River access. Oil Trough will provide an in-kind contribution of $25,753 for the $108,271 project. Perry County will use $46,108 to chip and seal a 2.75-mile section of access roads and parking areas at Harris Brake Lake. Perry County will provide an in-kind contribution of $47,000 for the $93,108 project. White County will receive $12,000 for additional and unanticipated worked at the Little Red River Nimmo Access. Additional work was required on the project to stabilize the roadway. The county has provided an additional $24,000 of in-kind money to the project.
• *Heard a presentation on the Beaver Tailwater Habitat Project. The project included various work on riparian areas, improving water quality, increasing water depth and improved angler access.
• *Heard a presentation on 2011 alligator season harvest. A total of 23 alligators were taken during the recent season.
• *Heard a presentation on the number of boating accidents in the state. As of October, there have been 73 boating accidents and 15 fatalities this year.

Ohio Hunter - Mitchell Baker County - Shelby Taken with Shotgun Date Taken - October, 2011

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio’s fall wild turkey season ended November 27 with hunters bagging 1,375 during the seven-week season. Ashtabula County led the state with 67 birds taken, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Last year’s harvest total was 1,425.

The 2011 fall turkey season ran from October 8 through November 27 allowing hunters to pursue a wild turkey of either sex using a shotgun, muzzleloading shotgun, bow or crossbow in 48 counties in the state.

Prior to the start of this fall’s hunting season, Ohio’s estimated wild turkey population was around 180,000. As many as 15,000 people, not counting private landowners hunting on their own property, enjoyed Ohio’s fall wild turkey season.

The top 10 counties for fall turkey harvest were: Ashtabula-67, Knox-55, Guernsey and Tuscarawas-53, Noble-50, Monroe-45, Coshocton-44, Holmes-42, Licking-40, and Carroll and Richland-39.

Hunters who wish to share their success may submit a photo to wildohio.com.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

EDITORS NOTE: The following is a list of wild turkeys checked and tagged through November 27. The number taken during the 2010 fall turkey season is marked in ( ): 2011 (2010).

Adams –35 (29); Ashland –17 (38); Ashtabula –67 (77); Athens –27 (18); Belmont –32 (11); Brown –26 (28); Carroll –39 (28); Clermont –32 (44); Columbiana –37 (35); Coshocton –44 (68); Cuyahoga –0 (2); Defiance-13 (25); Gallia –36 (34); Geauga –31 (53); Guernsey –53 (39); Harrison –38 (34); Highland –37 (51); Hocking –20 (17); Holmes –42 (29); Jackson –17 (22); Jefferson –20 (25); Knox –55 (62); Lake –7 (4); Lawrence –21 (16); Licking –40 (53); Lorain –29 (15); Mahoning –24 (27); Medina –17 (24); Meigs –15 (33); Monroe –45 (15); Morgan –23 (20); Morrow –11 (13); Muskingum-36 (32); Noble –50 (34); Perry –26 (25); Pike –21 (10); Portage –18 (23); Richland –39 (31); Ross –19 (32); Scioto –22(12); Stark –23 (19); Summit –3 (8); Trumbull –31 (60); Tuscarawas –53 (56); Vinton –21 (19); Washington –24 (25); Wayne –9 (8) and Williams-27 (22). Preliminary totals –1,375 (1,425).

Missouri Department of Conservation

JEFFERSON CITY Mo --(Ammoland.com)- An increase in this year’s fall firearms turkey harvest could be the first concrete evidence that Missouri’s wild-turkey population is recovering.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Telecheck database shows that hunters checked 7,077 turkeys during the fall firearms turkey season Oct. 1 through 31. Top harvest counties were Greene, with 209 turkeys checked, Franklin with 194 and Henry with 175. Juvenile turkeys made up 58.2 percent of the total, up from 55.5 percent last year.

This year’s fall firearms turkey harvest is 1,150 more than last year, a 19.4-percent increase. MDC Resource Scientist Jason Isabelle credits weather for the jump in fall turkey harvest.

“Our turkey flock has had a hard go for the past few years,” said Isabelle. “Cold, wet weather kept down nesting success from 2003 through 2005. We got a break in 2006, but then we had that amazing Easter freeze in 2007. 2008 was the wettest year in Missouri history, and 2009 and 2010 weren’t much better. All that took a toll on turkeys and other ground-nesting wildlife.”

Isabelle said this year’s spring and summer floods were tough on turkeys in the Missouri and Mississippi river valleys, but unusually dry weather throughout most of the state gave turkeys their first real break in five years. Surveys conducted during the summer showed a significant increase in the number of poults, as young turkeys are known.

This year’s statewide hatch of 1.7 poults per hen was the best since 2002. In Northeast Missouri, this year’s poult-to-hen ratio of 2.1 was the best it’s been since 2000. Most of Southeast Missouri also experienced a much-improved hatch this year, with the region’s poult-to-hen ratio also exceeding 2 poults per hen.

Isabelle said he expected an uptick in the fall turkey harvest, based on the improvement in nesting success. He also anticipated increased sales of fall turkey-hunting permits as hunters noticed the increased number of young turkeys in the woods. MDC sold 14,717 fall firearms turkey hunting permits this fall, compared to 13,736 last year.

Isabelle said he is encouraged by the increased fall turkey harvest and cautiously optimistic about prospects for the 2012 spring turkey season and beyond.

“This is a good first step,” said Isabelle. “We have always known that turkey numbers would rebound once the birds got a break from the weather. We still have a long way to go, but if the weather continues to be more normal we can hope for continued improvement in our turkey numbers.”

According to Isabelle, it is unlikely Missouri will ever see the numbers of turkeys it had in the late 1990s and early 2000s. That high-water mark was the culmination of a restoration program in which turkeys were reintroduced into areas where they had been absent for decades. Turkey populations expanded rapidly until they encountered “biological resistance” from predators and other limiting factors. From that peak, turkey numbers decreased slightly to sustainable levels.

“We are going to see the return of more abundant turkey numbers again,” said Isabelle. “As long as we have enough habitat, Missouri will have a great turkey resource. But wildlife populations always have peaks during periods of favorable conditions and valleys like the one we are experiencing at the moment.”

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

Washington --(Ammoland.com)- There’s more than one way to put a turkey on your table for Thanksgiving. As the holiday draws near, thousands of hunters are looking forward to the wild turkey season that gets under way Nov. 20 in northeastern Washington.

Then again, who says turkey has to be the center of attention on Thanksgiving Day? November is also prime time to hunt ducks, geese, elk, deer, pheasant, forest grouse and a variety of other game species around the state.

“Waterfowl hunting usually picks up around the middle of the month, when the wet and windy weather starts pushing more migrating birds into the area from the north,” said Don Kraege, waterfowl manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “That’s good news for waterfowl hunters from the Skagit Valley to the Columbia Basin.”

For anglers, Thanksgiving traditionally marks the start of winter steelhead fishing in western Washington, where anglers can also reel in coho and chum salmon moving in from the ocean. On the eastside, fly fishers are flocking to a hot catch-and-release steelhead fishery on the Grand Ronde River, where anglers can retain up to three marked hatchery fish per day on the lower river starting Nov. 1.

Rather serve shellfish? Seven areas of Puget Sound are currently open for crab fishing, and two more – marine areas 11 (Tacoma) and 13 (South Puget Sound) – are scheduled to reopen Nov. 21.

In addition, four ocean beaches – Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks – will open Oct. 28-29 after noon each day for the first razor clam dig of the season. Pending the results of marine toxin tests, additional digs are tentatively scheduled Nov. 11-12 and Nov. 25-26, providing plenty of opportunities to put clams on the table for the holiday.

For more information about fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing available over the next month, see the Weekender Regional Reports posted on WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/weekender/ . These reports are updated throughout the month to provide current information about recreational opportunities around the state.

New Jersey Fall Turkey Season Opens Saturday, October 29 2011

New Jersey Fish and Game

Trenton, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is reminding turkey hunters that a change in the Game Code adopted this year added a second Saturday to the fall turkey season.

The season opens this Saturday, October 29, and continues through Saturday, November 5, 2011 for those hunters who have purchased a Fall Turkey Season (N). Permits are available at license agents and online.

Please note that the following turkey check stations will NOT be available to check in birds this year: Big Daddy’s Sports Haven (Cumberland County); Ralph-Anthony Automotive (Hunterdon County); Lakeside Deli (Hunterdon County); and R & S Sports (Morris County).

Information about the fall season can be found on page 67 of the 2011 Hunting Digest ( http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/dighnt11.htm ). Hunters should also note that the boundary for Turkey Hunting Areas 22 was also changed, affecting adjoining areas. A revised Turkey Hunting Area map, as well as text descriptions of the new boundaries, can be found on the Wild Turkey in New Jersey page at http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/turkey_info.htm on the division’s website.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Hunters harvested 362 wild turkeys during the first week of Ohio’s fall wild turkey hunting season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

The fall wild turkey season opened on October 8 and will run through November 27. Hunting hours are a half-hour before sunrise to sunset. The bag limit is one turkey of either sex per hunter for the fall season. A fall turkey permit is required in addition to a current Ohio hunting license.

Last year, hunters killed 417 birds in the same time period. The top 10 counties for wild turkeys killed to date are: Noble-18, Knox-17, Guernsey-15, Monroe-14, Coshocton, Holmes, and Richland-13, Ashtabula and Highland-12, and Tuscarawas-11.

Wild turkeys can be hunted in 48 counties during the fall season. More than 20,000 hunters pursued wild turkeys in Ohio last fall.

Turkeys must be checked by 11:30 p.m. the day of harvest. Hunters can complete the automated game check and permanent tagging process in one of three ways:

• Call 1.877.TAGITOH (1.877.824.4864)
• Visit wildohio.com. Click on “Wild Ohio Customer Center” and then click on “Game Check: Report a Deer or Turkey Harvest.” To game check a harvest online, make sure to use a computer hooked to a printer. A game check receipt will be issued and should be printed. When using a smartphone for game check you must write down the 18-digit permanent tag number provided at the end of the transaction on the permanent tag in the spaces provided.
• Visit any authorized license sales agent. A list of sales agents can be found at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543). Authorized license sales agents will be available for game check during normal business hours, call for exact hours of business operation before you go.

Hunters can find their completed game check transactions by accessing their customer account at wildohio.com by clicking the Wild Ohio Customer Center button and then selecting “Manage Your Customer Account.”

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com.

(EDITORS NOTE: The following is a breakdown by county of wild turkeys killed through October 16. The number taken during the 2010 fall turkey season is marked in (_): 2011 (2010). A final tally will be provided at the close of the season.)

Adams -9 (6); Ashland –3 (13); Ashtabula –12 (28); Athens –7 (4); Belmont –10 (1); Brown –9 (8); Carroll –8 (6); Clermont – 5(14); Columbiana –10 (11); Coshocton –13 (28); Cuyahoga -0 (0); Defiance –4 (5); Gallia –10 (15); Geauga –10 (12); Guernsey –15 (13); Harrison –8 (14); Highland –12 (14); Hocking –3 (4); Holmes –13 (7); Jackson –9 (8); Jefferson –3 (4); Knox –17 (22); Lake –3 (0); Lawrence –4 (5); Licking –7 (12); Lorain –7 (3); Mahoning –4 (5); Medina –1 (8); Meigs –6 (14); Monroe –14 (5); Morgan –6 (5); Morrow –1 (3); Muskingum –7 (9); Noble –18 (10); Perry –7 (6); Pike –4 (4); Portage –6 (9); Richland –13 (9); Ross –5 (8); Scioto –6 (6); Stark –5 (7); Summit -2 (4); Trumbull –10 (15); Tuscarawas –11 (10); Vinton –9 (8); Washington – 6 (10); Wayne -2 (2) and Williams -8 (3). Preliminary total –362 (417).

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- Every fall, hunters head into Pennsylvania’s forests and woodlots in pursuit of wild turkeys.

According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, it’s one of autumn’s greatest competitions as hunters try to call in their quarries. It’s also a time when hunters really need to be in tune with their surroundings.

“Staying alert and making sound shooting decisions will go a long way toward ensuring your safety and the safety of others in turkey season this fall,” said Keith Snyder, Game Commission Hunter-Trapper Education Division chief.

“So, too, will always handling your sporting arm in a safe and responsible way.

“The Game Commission has worked with the National Wild Turkey Federation and the agency’s cadre of volunteer hunter-trapper education instructors over the past decade to reverse what was a growing number of turkey hunting-related shooting incidents. Today, Pennsylvania’s woods are safer for turkey hunters. But hunters must remain vigilant. Paying attention and hunting safely ensure that your trip afield remains an enjoyable one.”

Snyder said that the Game Commission and NWTF offer the following safety tips:

• Positively identify your target! Be certain the bird is fully and plainly visible before pulling the trigger. Don’t shoot at sounds or movement!
• Never stalk a turkey! Movement or sounds you think are a turkey may be another hunter. Be patient, and let the bird come to you.
• Protect your back! Select a large tree, rock or other natural barrier while calling. Hunt in open woods.
• Shout “STOP” to alert approaching hunters! Never move, wave or make turkey sounds to alert others of your position.
• Dress to be safe! Never wear red, white, blue or black clothing. These are the colors found on mature gobblers.
• Cover up! Don’t carry harvested birds in the open. Cover them with fluorescent orange or completely conceal from view in a game bag.
• Be seen! Wear or display the required amount of fluorescent orange, particularly when moving.

In addition, while wearing orange is required for all fall turkey hunters while moving, hunters should consider wearing or posting orange at all times. For orange requirements, please see pages 68-69 of the 2011-12 Digest.

Pennsylvania’s Fall Turkey Season Features Split Season

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The Pennsylvania Game Commission is expecting hunters to encounter a sizeable wild turkey population when they head afield for the fall turkey season.

However, hunters will need to carefully review the fall turkey season dates, which are outlined on page 35 of the 2011-12 Digest, as date structures have changed from previous years.

Season lengths vary in the state’s Wildlife Management Units for fall turkey hunting: WMUs 1A, 1B and 2A (Shotgun and bow and arrow only) – Oct. 29-Nov. 12, and Nov. 24-26; WMU 2B (Shotgun and bow and arrow only) – Oct. 29-Nov. 18, and Nov. 24-26; WMUs 2C, 2D, 2E, 4A, 4B and 4D – Oct. 29-Nov. 12, and Nov. 24-26; WMUs 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4C and 4E – Oct. 29-Nov. 18, and Nov. 24-26; WMU 5A – Nov. 1-3; and WMUs 5B, 5C and 5D – Closed to Fall Hunting.

Mary Jo Casalena, Game Commission wild turkey biologist, said the fall turkey population is excellent. Even though early spring weather was cool and wet, it moderated quickly enough for most hens to successfully hatch broods. Fall flock sizes are slightly smaller than average, but there are plenty of flocks afield. The challenge hunters face will be to locate the turkey’s food source due to the lack of a good acorn crop in many areas. Turkeys will seek out and concentrate in areas where food is available. Hunters who find these food sources also will find the flocks.

The second year of an open season during the Thanksgiving holiday also should improve hunter opportunities. This Thanksgiving holiday season, which will be held Nov. 24-26 in most WMUs, is designed to provide additional hunting opportunities for youth and families when schools and many businesses are closed and, hopefully, to reverse the declining trend in fall turkey hunters.

Also, hunters in WMU 5A again have a three-day (Nov. 1-3) season after seven years of a closed fall season that was implemented to allow the population to increase. The success in managing the WMU 5A turkey population is shown in re-opening the traditional fall turkey hunt. The conservative three-day season is structured to provide recreation without reversing the now expanding population.

“The statewide turkey population this past spring prior to nesting was similar to the 10-year average, about 340,000 birds, and a 25 percent increase from its low, in 2005, of 272,000, so there’s a bountiful population of turkeys in Penn’s Woods,” Casalena said. “This resurgence is due to several years of average to above-average reproduction coupled with generally conservative fall season lengths, which minimizes the overharvest of hens.”

Locating a flock is only part of the hunt, Casalena said. Properly setting up and bringing a turkey within range is another challenge, and is what makes turkey hunting simultaneously tricky and enjoyable. This challenge is revealed with a look at hunter success rates, which ranged from 12–16 percent during the last five years.

“Overall, I expect turkey hunters to enjoy higher success rates than last year when only 10 percent of fall turkey hunters harvested turkeys because of abundant mast crops, which dispersed flocks making them difficult to locate. Success this fall is expected to be much higher, at about 15 percent, similar to the previous five-year average,” Casalena said. “Hunter success has been as high as 21 percent in 2001, which was a year with excellent recruitment, and as low as four percent in 1979.”

Last fall’s overall turkey harvest was below-average, 15,884, which is 34 percent less than the previous five-year average of 24,049. Fall harvests have been declining steadily for the last nine years, mainly due to a decrease in the number of fall turkey hunters and shorter fall season lengths. To view maps of turkey harvest by WMU, go to the agency’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), put your cursor over “Hunt/Trap,” then click on “Hunting” in the drop-down menu listing, and select “Harvest Data and Maps” in the “Big Game” section.

The preliminary spring 2011 harvest, calculated from hunter report cards, was about 41,000, which is five percent below last year, but slightly higher than the previous five-year preliminary average of 40,000. Additionally, during the spring season, hunters harvested about 2,045 gobblers using the second tag, or “special turkey license.” Even though spring harvests are down from the record 49,200 of 2001, spring harvests have been back above 40,000 bearded turkeys for the last four years, exceeding most other states in the nation.

“Please remember to report any leg-banded and/or radio-transmittered turkeys harvested or found,” Casalena said. “Leg bands and transmitters are stamped with a toll-free number to call, and provide important information for the research project being conducted in partnership with the Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Penn State University, with funding from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Pennsylvania Chapter of NWTF. These turkeys are legal to harvest and the information provided will help determine turkey survival and harvest rates. Rewards for reporting marked turkeys are made possible by donations from the national and state chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation and a portion of the state’s share of the federal Pittman-Robertson program.”

In both spring and fall turkey seasons, it is unlawful to use drives to hunt turkeys. Hunters may take only one turkey in the fall season.

Shot size is limited to No. 4 lead, bismuth-tin, tungsten-iron or No. 2 steel. Turkey hunters also are required to tag their bird before moving it and to report their harvest within 10 days of taking a turkey.

Legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. For more information, please see page 14 of the 2011-12 Digest for the legal hunting hours table. Also, it is lawful to use a dog to pursue, chase, scatter and track wild turkeys during the fall wild turkey season. Hunters are prohibited from using dogs to hunt any other big game animal, including spring gobbler. For minimum orange requirements, please see pages 68-69 of the 2011-12 Digest, as the requirements differ depending on the Wildlife Management Unit.

Benelli On Assignment

They travel to the South Texas brush county of Sarco Creek Ranch, near the historic town of Goliad, Texas.

Joining Coogan and McKelvain on this “run & gun” style hunt is NWTF’s Turkey Country editor, Karen Lee and SHE Outdoor Apparel owner, Pam Zaitz.

Completing this group of experienced turkey hunters is Hazel Creek Taxidermist and expert turkey hunter, Cally Morris.

Watch as the hunters zero in on multiple gobblers with Benelli’s brand new Super Vinci shotgun.

Benelli On Assignment Travels to Texas for Turkey

Tension builds and turkey tempers flare when the birds come to the call and approach the authentic Hazel Creek mounted decoys with intention of inflicting pain and injury on the hapless real-life forms.

Now in its fifth season, BOA teams host, Joe Coogan with nationally recognized writers and photographers from top outdoor publications to field test and showcase Benelli USA products at top hunting spots around the world. BOA presents the very finest in hunting adventure.

Tune in to Outdoor Channel to see BOA airing Mondays at 8 am (EST) and 1:30 pm and repeated on Saturdays at 11:30 am (EST). Below are listed show titles and guests appearing on this season’s BOA TV show.

2011 Show Line Up:

Click the link to watch BOA’s Season 5 Trailer http://tiny.cc/v16gd

• Texas Turkey #1 – Karen Lee, Editor (Turkey Country)
• Texas Whitetail at Greystone Castle #3 – Joseph Von Benedikt, Editor (Shooting Times)
• Texas Turkey #2 – Becky Lou Lacock, Outdoor Writer (Game & Fish Magazine)
• Montana Mule Deer – Greg Thomas, Field Editor (Big Sky Journal)
• Botswana Lechwe/Eland/Zebra – Mark Keefe, Editor (American Rifleman)
• Texas Whitetail at Greystone Castle #1 – Clay Chandler, Guest (Sporting Classics)
• Texas Whitetail at Greystone Castle #2 – Matt Coffey, Managing Editor (Sporting Classics)
• Botswana Impala/Wildebeest/Gemsbok – Mark Keefe, Editor (American Rifleman), Bob Williams, Outdoor Writer (Petersen’s Hunting)
• New Mexico Pronghorn – J. Guthrie, Field Editor (Petersen’s Hunting Magazine)
• Texas Whitetail at Stasney’s Cook Ranch – Jim Wilson, Senior Field Editor (American Hunter)

For the latest Benelli TV news and product information visit www.benelliusa.com and www.benellitv.com

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters fall turkey hunting license drawing results and leftover license quantities are available at www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings.

Hunters are encouraged to visit the website for updated license availability information.

Unsuccessful applicants may purchase one leftover license online or from any license agent on a first-come, first-served basis for a one week period beginning Aug. 22 at 10 a.m. EST. The licenses will be sold until the quotas are met.

Beginning Aug. 29 at 10 a.m. EST, remaining fall turkey hunting licenses may be purchased by any hunter, including those that did not apply for a fall turkey license. A hunter may buy one license per day until the quotas are met.

As of Aug. 21, there are licenses available in fall turkey management units L, M, W, HA (private land) and YY (private land). The majority of the licenses are available in unit YY (45,000 licenses) for private land in southern Michigan and Beaver Island. Currently, there are over 800 leftover licenses available in Unit M.

Fall turkey season opens Sept. 15 and runs through Nov. 14. “Fall turkey season provides a great opportunity for hunters to get a bird for their Thanksgiving dinner,” said DNR upland bird biologist Al Stewart. “And because the season runs through Nov. 14, it gives archery deer hunters the chance to pursue another game animal during the archery deer season.”

Hunters have an additional opportunity to get a fall turkey license by applying for the 2012 Pure Michigan Hunt drawing. Each application is $4 and you may apply as many times as you like. Three lucky winners will receive a hunt package that includes a fall turkey, spring turkey, elk, bear, antlerless deer license and a reserved waterfowl hunt. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/puremichiganhunt. Season dates and regulations have not yet been established for the 2012 hunting seasons.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- As the Aug. 1 deadline for fall wild turkey hunting license applications nears, the Department of Natural Resources reminds Upper Peninsula hunters that the quota for licenses was cut dramatically this year.

“For the last few years Upper Peninsula fall turkey hunters have been able to purchase leftover licenses over the counter,” said DNR upland game bird specialist Al Stewart.

“But with the reduction in the quota from 4,000 licenses to 1,500, there may not be many – if any – leftovers available this fall.”

Fall turkey season runs from Sept. 15 to Nov. 14 statewide. Fall turkey hunters are allowed to harvest a bird of either sex. The Upper Peninsula quota was cut this season to assure enough hens survive into the spring breeding season.

“The Upper Peninsula wild turkey population is large enough to warrant a fall season, but we want to take a conservative approach to make sure we maintain a robust population,” Stewart said. “If you don’t apply for a license, you could find yourself left out.”

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that applications for fall turkey hunting licenses are on sale starting today through Aug. 1, 2011.

A total of 50,050 licenses are available through a lottery for the units open to hunting, 3,350 general licenses that may be used on public or private land and 46,700 licenses for private land only.

Eight wild turkey management units totaling 42,218 square miles are open to fall turkey hunting during the Sept. 15 – Nov. 14 season, including most of the southern Lower Peninsula, Beaver Island, and the entire Upper Peninsula.

“We are in the second year of a three-year period of stabilized regulations that were developed by working with turkey hunting groups.” explained Al Stewart, the DNR’s upland game bird specialist. “Regulations are similar to last year with one change occurring to quotas in the Upper Peninsula. The Unit M quota was reduced from 4,000 to 1,500 licenses.”

Hunters may apply for a turkey hunting license at any authorized license agent, at DNR Operations Service Centers, or online at www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings. The application fee is $4. Drawing results will be posted online beginning Aug. 15.

If any licenses remain after the drawing, unsuccessful applicants may purchase one leftover license at any license agent or online for a one week period beginning Aug. 22 at 10 a.m. (EDT). Any licenses that remain as of Aug. 29 at 10 a.m. (EDT) will be available for purchase over the counter by any hunter. The licenses will be sold until the quotas are met.

Hunters have an additional opportunity to get a turkey license by applying for the 2012 Pure Michigan Hunt drawing. Each application is $4 and you may apply as many times as you like. Three lucky winners will receive a hunt package that includes an elk, bear, turkey, and antlerless deer license. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/puremichiganhunt. Season dates and regulations have not yet been established for the 2012 hunting seasons.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – -(Ammoland.com)- Preliminary harvest numbers for the 2011 spring gobbler season show a take of 9,216 bearded turkeys, a decline of 10 percent from the 2010 harvest of 10,209 birds.

Division of Natural Resources’ wildlife officials surmise a combination of inclement weather, high gas prices, and lower turkey numbers were major factors in the lower kill.

“Our biologists had predicted a slightly lower harvest based on poorer productivity in 2009,” said Curtis I. Taylor, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section.  “Preliminary reports from field personnel also indicate a lower hunter turnout, probably due to high fuel prices and many rainy days during the season.”

The harvest was down 12 percent each in Districts 1 and 2, down 9 percent each in Districts 3 and 6, down 16 percent in District 5, and up slightly in District 4.

Top counties were Mason with a kill of 447, Preston (325), Kanawha (310), Jackson (291), and Wood (276).  Rounding out the top 10 counties were Marshall (254), Greenbrier (253), Harrison (242), Wyoming (242), Fayette (237), and Putnam (237).

The 2011 spring kill is the lowest since 1990, when 9,152 birds were checked.  “Let’s hope for a dry June so young poults will have high survival and bolster populations, although it will take several years of good brood production to get turkey numbers to levels they were 10 years ago,” Taylor said.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- For the eighth straight year, Delaware’s wild turkey season has set a new harvest record – bringing more prominence to one of the state’s most successful wildlife restoration programs as it coincides with DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife’s celebrating its first century of conservation service.

The spring wild turkey season tallied 487 birds, surpassing last year’s harvest by more than 100 gobblers, and included a 25½-pound tom shot by a first-time turkey hunter that was the largest in the state this year.

“The turkey harvest really started climbing in 2004 and we have experienced a remarkable 350 percent increase in just eight years,” said Fish & Wildlife game biologist Matt DiBona. “While we can’t predict what our maximum harvest level might be, we feel that the turkey population is growing, along with hunter interest, so there might be more record seasons to come.”

A number of nice gobblers were recorded this year, the largest the 25½-pound tom taken by Jamie West of Milton.

“I talked to Jamie a couple of weeks after the season, and he was still pretty excited about his accomplishment on his first time out,” said Fish & Wildlife program manager Ken Reynolds. “I think Jamie’s now a committed turkey hunter.”

With Delaware hunters permitted to take only one turkey per season, almost 500 hunters scored with the big birds.

Rob Gano of Frankford took the turkey with the longest beard at 16-1/16 inches. Jay Hastings of Delmar had the longest spur lengths with a matched set measuring 1-13/16 inches each.The top overall scoring bird as measured using the National Wild Turkey Federation formula was taken by Mark Fenimore of Clayton. This system takes into account weight, total spur length and total beard length. Mr. Fenimore’s bird weighed 23 lb. 7 oz., had a total spur length of 2-1/16 inches and had five beards with a total length of 39-3/16 inches for a score of 122.4375 points.

Birds were harvested in 16 of the 17 management zones in the state but several areas stood out as turkey “hotspots.” Zones 4, 6, and 11 accounted more than a third – 38 percent – of the total statewide harvest. Zone 1, which is New Castle County north of the Canal, was the only zone where no birds were taken.

Biologists weren’t surprised to find that nine in 10 birds were taken on private land. But given the limited amount of public land in Delaware and the limited number of turkey-hunting permits available, hunters also did well on state-managed property. Fifty-one birds were bagged on public lands, another new record. Redden State Forest, the Midlands Wildlife Area and the Norman G. Wilder Wildlife Area were the top three producing sites. Birds were also taken on the following wildlife areas: Assawoman, Nanticoke, Marshy Hope, Milford Neck, Little Creek, Cedar Swamp, Blackiston and Ted Harvey.

With the Delaware Game and Fish Commission having been established in 1911, the Division of Fish & Wildlife is now celebrating 100 years of fish and wildlife conservation.

“There have been many noteworthy conservation accomplishments during this century, and the restoration of the wild turkey definitely ranks high among them,” said Greg Moore, Wildlife Section administrator. “We look forward to having this magnificent game bird around for many years to come.”

For hunters planning ahead, Delaware’s 2012 turkey season will run from April 14 – May 12, with the special youth and disabled hunter day set for April 7. Also: a reminder for hunters aiming to pursue wild turkey for the first time in Delaware that a one-day turkey hunter education class is required – for more information about upcoming classes, please call 302-735-3600.

This group is all smiles in anticipation of the great turkey hunting northeastern Wyoming has to offer. Left to right: Jim Moore, president of Remington Outdoor Foundation; Scott Talbott, director of Wyoming Game and Fish Department; Wyoming Governor Matt Mead; and Mitch King, Remington Outdoor Foundation, government affairs.

Old West Invitational Turkey Shoot

Hulett, Wyo – -(Ammoland.com)- The tiny town of Hulett, Wyo., population 516, sprang to life May 12-14 as 325 turkey hunters, guides, landowners, volunteers and sponsors packed the tent each night in celebration of the 2nd Annual Old West Invitational Turkey Shoot.

Not only did this northeastern Wyoming town jump in size, those who poured into Hulett for the event pushed fundraising to the six-figure mark.

“Though it will be some time before final numbers are available, preliminary totals show we are well on the way to meeting our goal of raising $100,000 to support Wyoming’s wildlife and the Greater Hulett Community,” said Craig Showalter, president and CEO of the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming (WHFW).

Event co-hosts, the WHFW and the Greater Hulett Community Center, welcomed celebrities and special guests for a weekend of turkey hunting. Showalter said the second annual Invitational Turkey Shoot was even bigger and more successful than the first.

“We saw an increase in hunters, sponsors and local volunteers who worked tirelessly during the three-day event to assure that everyone had a good time,” Showalter said. “We had over 50 guides, 40 ranchers and landowners, and 70 hunters participating. About a third of the town turned out to volunteer for the event.”

Many celebrities and dignitaries also attended the event, including three of Wyoming’s governors. Former Wyoming Governors, Dave Freudenthal and Mike Sullivan participated in the hunt. Current Governor Matt Mead was on hand the first evening of the event to welcome hunters and present donated shotguns to the five youth hunters who were invited to participate in this year’s event. Other celebrity guests included nationally known sports figures, outdoor television show hosts and more.

The event was generously supported by sponsors and partners including the event’s signature sponsor Remington Outdoor Foundation (ROF) and its fundraising and event management group, Outdoor Roadmap. Outdoor Roadmap is focused on assisting state wildlife agencies and nonprofit organizations in raising money for conservation and hunter recruitment and retention. They played a key role at the Wyoming event by providing funding, products and operational support.

“Without question, one of the key factors that enabled us to make this event a success was the commitment of our signature sponsor, Remington Outdoor Foundation. They helped us launch this event, and their substantial financial support and product contributions enabled us to host a truly first-class event in one of the more remote areas of Wyoming,” said Showalter. “Their support also allowed us to leverage their contributions to attract numerous local and national sponsors for the event. There is no question that without the support of ROF, it simply would not have been possible to make the Old West Invitational Turkey Shoot a reality.”

A portion of the proceeds from this event will be used to help fund research, education and habitat projects that benefit Wyoming’s more than 600 game and nongame species.

Visit the Old West Invitational Turkey Shoot website for more information.

To learn more about organizations ROF is teaming up with, visit their website, OutdoorRoadmap.com, which is poised to become the leading online source of training, information and services for hunters, target shooters, archers, and conservationists.

Celebrity Participants

Visit the 2011 Celebrity Participants web page for more detailed profiles.

• Randy Birdsong, who plays a major role on the #1 rated TV show Whitetail Freaks
• Country musician Paul Bogart
• Tom Buchanan, President of the University of Wyoming
• Bill, Matt and Ryan Busbice, hosts of the TV show, Wildgame Nation
• Competitive turkey caller, game call maker and TV show host Mark Drury
• Turkey hunting guru and outdoor communicator Ray Eye
• Dave Freudenthal, former Governor of Wyoming
• Former MLB pitcher and host of Hunting with the Pros, Kevin Gross
• Member of Bass Pro Shop’s RedHead Pro Team and former CEO of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Rob Keck
• Jon Koncak, former NBA center
• Rick and Julie Kreuter, hosts of the TV show Beyond the Hunt
• George Kunz, former offensive lineman for the NFL
• Michael J. Sullivan, former Governor of Wyoming
• Scott Talbott, director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department
• Michael Tilleman, former defensive tackle for the NFL
• Bone Collector host Michael Waddell
• NFL player John Wendling, Detroit Lions
• Reggie Gordon, Bowling Green, FL
• Tim Wells, Relentless Pursuit TV

Event Sponsors and Partners

Signature Sponsor

• · Remington Outdoor Foundation

Royal Slam Sponsors

• · Mike and Pam Schmid, Solitude Ranch & Outfitters
• · Mike Schmid, Intrepid Outdoors
• · Neiman Enterprises, Inc.
• · Golf Club at Devils Tower
• · Forest Product Distributing
• · Kennedy Oil
• · T Cross T Ranch
• · Joe Scott Foundation

Grand Slam Sponsors

• · Powder River Energy Coop/Foundation
• · Basin Electric
• · Local Ford Dealerships
• · First Interstate Bank, Casper, WY
• · Wildlife Management Services, LLC, Dave and Janet Lockman
• · Keyhole Technologies, LLC, Mills, WY
• · Ed Mignery, President, Game & Fish Commission
• · Brunton Outdoors, Riverton, WY
• · National Wild Turkey Federation, Wyoming Chapter
• · Fathers in the Field
• · Croell Redi- Mix
• · A-Double J LLC, John & Judy Andrikopoulos, WHFW Board Member
• · Rimfire Ranch LLC, Andrikopoulos Family
• · NRA of America
• · RDO Equipment/John Deere

Jake Sponsors

• · Earth Work Solutions, E.O. Sowerwine IV
• · Mike Schmid, SOS Well Service, LaBarge, WY
• · Ed and Barb Mignery, Wyoming Game & Fish Commission, Sundance, WY
• · Green Bit & Tool, Inc., Casper, WY
• · Budweiser, Fremont Distributing, Riverton, WY
• · Wildgame Nation, Reality Hunting TV
• · Pathfinder Renewable Wind Energy

Friend of the Shoot

• · Wildlife Energy Drinks
• · Crazy Woman Realty, Will & Missy McAmis, Hulett, WY
• · Crazy Rainbow Fly Fishing & Wing Shooting, Ugly Bug Fly Shop, Casper, WY
• · Deer Creek Taxidermy, Hulett, WY
• · Black Hills Chemical, SD
• · Hunter’s Specialties
• · Dri-Duck Trading
• · Bar D Sign, Casper, WY
• · Out West Custom Embroidery, Hulett, WY
• · Summit National Bank, Hulett, WY
• · Hulett Motel, Hulett, WY
• · Quaker Boy Turkey Calls
• · Trophy Plus Outfitters, MT
• · Crook County Promotion Board, WY
• · Rocky Mountain Discount Sports, Gillette, WY
• · McAvoy’s Grille, Hulett, WY
• · Alta Enterprises, Dick Staiger, WHFW Board Member, Alta, WY
• · Craig and Carmen Showalter, Cheyenne, WY
• · Hugh Vogel, Casper, WY
• · Russell Stinson & George White, Hulett, WY
• · Matt & Kathy Driskill, Devils Tower, WY
• · Ben & Jamie Jenkins, Big Piney, WY
• · Beavercreek Homemakers, Hulett, WY
• · Cindy B’s, Aladdin, WY
• · The Feed Bunk, Hulett, WY
• · Belle Laundry, Belle Fourche, SD
• · Senator Ogden Driskill, Devils Tower, WY
• · Acker Electric, Hulett, WY
• · Ballard Funeral Home
• · Yellowstone Sports Medicine
• · Elec-Tech, Hulett, WY
• · Farm Credit Services of America
• · Greg Gordon, Bowling Green, F

About Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming
The mission of the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming is to create an enduring legacy for future generations through stewardship of all Wyoming’s wildlife. For more information, visit www.whfw.org.

About OutdoorRoadmap.com
OutdoorRoadmap.com is expected to become the single online source of training, information and services related to hunting, target shooting, archery and conservation. By teaming with interested participants, OutdoorRoadmap.com offers online hunter education and firearms safety training, interactive maps and tools, event listings, social media, licensing resources, and a wealth of outdoor information. For more information about this state-of-the-art platform, visit www.OutdoorRoadmap.com.

Missouri Department of Conservation

JEFFERSON CITY MO --(Ammoland.com)- A 9.3-percent dip in the 2011 spring turkey harvest confirms what Missourians already knew – it has been a stormy three weeks in the Show-Me State.

Resource Scientist Jason Isabelle, the Conservation Department’s turkey specialist, announced today that hunters checked 38,328 turkeys during the regular spring turkey season April 18 through May 8. That is down 3,926 from last year.

Adding the harvest from the youth turkey season April 9 and 10 brings Missouri’s 2011 spring turkey harvest to 42,226. That is down 8.6 percent from last year. Spring turkey permit sales were down 4,885, or 3.3 percent, from last year.

Top harvest counties were Franklin, with 840 turkeys checked, Texas with 699 and Bollinger with 675. Juvenile gobblers, known as “jakes,” made up 19.6 percent of the harvest. That is virtually identical to last year, when jakes comprised 20 percent of the harvest. Isabelle predicted a smaller harvest this year because of a decline in turkey numbers statewide.

“We still have very strong wild turkey numbers in most areas compared to other states,” said Isabelle, “but there is no question that the population is down, and more in some areas than others. That was bound to affect our harvest this year. Cool, rainy and often windy conditions during much of turkey season magnified the effect.”

Isabelle said the season got off to a good start. The youth harvest was virtually identical to last year’s, and the opening-day harvest was slightly higher than in 2010. Then it turned cool and turned stormy.

Isabelle said rain, cool temperatures and wind have a double negative effect on hunting success. Stormy weather causes male turkeys to gobble less, making them harder to hunt. Nasty weather also discourages hunters from going afield.

“The turkeys are out there every day,” said Isabelle. “You can hunt them effectively, even on rainy days, but it’s harder, and it can be uncomfortable. Quite a few hunters choose not to hunt at all on rainy days. I suspect that when we look at our hunter survey data, we’ll see a reduction in the number of days that hunters took to the field this spring.”

Isabelle said he doesn’t expect this spring’s relatively light harvest to have a significant effect on the state’s turkey population. This is partly because 99 percent of the harvested turkeys are males, and turkey reproduction is determined by the number of hens. MDC sets the hunting season late enough in the spring to allow ample opportunity for gobblers and hens to breed prior to the start of the season.

“Harvesting 4,000 fewer gobblers in the spring is a minor factor compared to annual reproduction,” said Isabelle. “In a good year, our hens can produce more than 300,000 poults (young turkeys). That dwarfs the total number of gobblers we harvest, even when hunting conditions are good.”

Isabelle said Missouri has enough wild-turkey hens to stage a population recovery. To do that, however, the birds need favorable weather. Wet conditions take a toll on nesting success of ground-nesting birds like turkeys. It also reduces survival of poults, which are susceptible to hypothermia when cool, wet weather prevails.

Isabelle said wet conditions so far this spring have not helped turkey nesting, but most areas haven’t been as hard-hit as southeastern Missouri.

“Even in areas where flooding has occurred, hens still have time to re-nest and bring off a good crop of poults,” he said. “We have had several years of bad nesting conditions, but I’m hoping this will be the year when we get warmer, drier weather, and turkey numbers bounce back a bit. May and June are critical months for wild turkey production, and it’s still not too late for conditions to improve.”

The Conservation Department recorded three firearms-related hunting incidents during the regular turkey season. None was fatal. Two incidents, including a fatal self-inflicted gunshot, occurred during the youth season. Last year, the agency recorded four incidents during the regular season and two during the youth season.

None of last year’s incidents was fatal. County-by-county spring turkey harvest totals are available at the MDC website, www.missouriconservation.org. Search for “2011 turkey harvest.”

West Virginia Wild

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – -(Ammoland.com)- I think it was Ben Franklin who said the wild turkey should be the national bird instead of the bald eagle.

He was probably right as the wild turkey has flourished and expanded its range even though heavily hunted, while the bald eagle had to have protection for its species to survive.

The second reason old Ben spoke up for the wild turkey was that our gobblers carry the national colors of red, white and blue.

So all of this was going through my mind as I sat on a fallen log at daylight the first Monday of the spring gobbler season, waiting for that first gobble.

I always like for the gobbler to sound off first, giving away its location. When nothing came from the high ridges and deep hollows, I decided that it was time to make a move.

As I walked along the old logging road, the forest creatures were coming to life. Birds were starting to chirp, chipmunks and squirrels were beginning to scurry around and deer were slinking off ahead of me. I was in mid-stride when an old long-beard gobbler rattled the ridge across from me. I stopped in my tracks to listen and, again, the old Tom sounded off.

Now I had him pinpointed. He was a little below my level, out around the road and on a flat where I had killed a gobbler a few years ago. This was a perfect location. I could set up along the road and be able to watch the road and about 50 yards of the flat where he was roosted. He would either come up the old road or out the flat. Either way, he would present a perfect 30 to 40 yard shot.

As I quietly cleared some of the sticks away from the tree where I wanted to set up, he continued to gobble on his own. In a minute or so I had a little spot cleaned out, my mask down and the gun on my knee. I was now ready and took out the old Lynch box call I have had since 1961. Years ago, I started to cut small notches on one side for the hens and one side for the gobblers. After about 20 notches I decided that if I kept it up at that rate there might be little left of the call.

I let out three or four soft yelps and immediately the old gobbler came right back at me. I waited a couple of minutes and hit the call again with the same response. I remember thinking that this was going to be too easy. I settled in and took up a conversation with the old gobbler. I would call and he would gobble. He would gobble and I would call. He would get silent and I would too. Sometimes he would outwait me and sometimes I would not call again until he gobbled.

He sounded ready, but something also seemed wrong. Then I heard it. A hen began to call and even cut right where I thought he was. He had a hen or two with him on the roost. I have found it difficult to call a gobbler away from a hen. I have had them leave a hen and come in and have had them come in with their hen. But most of the time I have had little success in this situation.

Our back and forth banter went on for about 15 minutes. Then, all of a sudden, he got completely silent. Experience has taught me that when the gobbler shuts up you need to sit perfectly still for one of two things is happening – the gobbler is either coming or going. Well, in this case he was going and taking the hen with him. I remained still for about 30 minutes and never heard him again.

Was I disappointed? Sure, I would have liked to have called him, but on the other hand my hunt would have ended the first hour of the first day of the season. But now I can get up again and head out in the dark to watch the sun usher in another glorious day.

If you have had similar experiences the first couple of days, don’t get discouraged. Most of the gobblers I have killed have been taken during the second week. So be careful out there and take a moment or two to observe all of nature’s blessing around you.

All of God’s creatures and plants combine to make May a prime time to be in the woods around the state.

To read more of this column, visit www.wvcommerce.org/wvwild

GoHUNTn

California --(Ammoland.com)- GoHUNTn (www.gohuntn.com), “where hunters connect,” launched its first-ever spring gobbler week from Monday, May 2 through Monday, May 9 presented by the National Wild Turkey Federation.

“You can’t think of spring without thinking of gobblers, and you can’t think gobblers without thinking of the National Wild Turkey Federation,” said Ned Desmond, president of GoSportn, Inc., the parent company of GoHUNTn.

“We’re thrilled to partner with this great organization and pay homage to the wild turkey and all the hunters who are pursuing them this year.”

GoHUNTn and the NWTF will feature multiple contests throughout the week based on wild turkeys, with the winners receiving various prizes including hats and gift cards. GoHUNTn will promote these contests on its Facebook page, which has more than 53,000 fans. The person who contributes the most content on GoHUNTn.com for the week will win the grand prize and the title of Mr. or Ms. Spring Gobbler.

“In a very short time since its launch, GoHUNTn has really become a great resource for people looking for the best news in hunting,” said Brent Lawrence, Public Relations and Web Director for the National Wild Turkey Federation. “We’re excited to be partnering with them on their first-ever theme week and share the spring gobbler love across GoHUNTn and the NWTF’s communities through our websites and Facebook and Twitter followers.”

The National Wild Turkey Federation is the leader in upland wildlife habitat conservation in North America. A nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage, the NWTF and its volunteers work closely with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies and other partners.

Through these dynamic partnerships, the NWTF and its members helped restore wild turkey populations throughout North America, spending more than $331 million to conserve nearly 16 million acres of habitat. Wild turkeys and hundreds of other species of upland wildlife, including quail, deer, grouse, pheasant and songbirds, benefit from this improved habitat.

For more details on Spring Gobbler Week, visit GoHUNTn.com (www.gohuntn.com/national-wild-turkey-federation/reports/828-national-wild-turkey-federation-presents-spring-gobbler-week-on-gohuntn). To follow along with the week’s activity check GoHUNTn (www.gohuntn.com) or the NWTF and GoHUNTn’s Facebook pages (www.facebook.com/theNWTF, www.facebook.com/gohuntn).

Go Sportn Inc. is a start-up social media and technology company based in California and Maryland. GoHUNTn is its first launch. For more information, visit www.gohuntn.com/info/about

The Chase Facebook Knight & Hale Turkey Call Contest

The Chase

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Think you are a skilled turkey caller?

Well, Travis and Leigh Creekbaum, hosts of The Chase TV show think the proof is in the puddin’ and challenge you to a Knight & Hale turkey call contest.

Connect with The Chase on Facebook to learn more and have the chance to win a Knight & Hale White Liar box call and slate call every week for the next four weeks.

Each winner will receive two turkey calls from Knight & Hale: Sweet Lil’ Liar Box Call ($25.99) and White Liar Pot Call ($44.99) for a combined value of over $70!

The very best hunters know that it’s the thrill not the kill that makes it worthwhile and the thrill is in The Chase!

Be sure to tune in and join The Chase on the Pursuit Channel and experience a dream come true as this married couple travels, hunts and shares family fun in the great outdoors.

Just as whitetail bucks chase does and those ole’ toms chase hens, Travis and Leigh are focused on one thing…The Chase.

For more info, check out www.thechaselt.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Close to 10,000 wild turkeys have been checked through Ohio’s new automated game check system, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Hunters must still report their turkey harvest, but they are no longer required to take their turkey to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

• On the Internet at wildohio.com
• By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a turkey permit to hunt turkeys.
• At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at wildohio.com

All three check-in methods are being used, with 42-percent of hunters using the phone method. Hunters checking at a license agent location are second at 31-percent, followed closely by those using the Internet at 27-percent.

Those hunters checking their turkey on the Internet need to make sure they have access to a working printer so the game check receipt can be printed. Game check requires the hunter to open and print a receipt from a PDF file. Adobe Acrobat Reader version 5.2 or better is required. Adobe’s Acrobat Reader is a free download.

Hunters need to be aware that checking game on the Internet with their smart phone is available, but those hunters will eventually need to print out a game check receipt with a permanent tag number printed on it. So hunters must save the game check receipt PDF file provided at the end of the transaction for later printing.

A new option available to hunters is the ability to access your customer account. Log onto wildohio.com and choose the “Manage Your Customer Account” link. The hunter can use his or her customer identification number to log in. Customer identification numbers can be found at the top of hunting licenses and permits. Information available through the customer account includes licenses and permits purchased, game check transactions, hunting and fishing lottery results and Wild Ohio Magazine subscriptions.

Since the new automated game check system is built on a web-based platform making needed modifications to the system can be accomplished. Last fall, a pilot test of the game check system was completed and a few modifications were made for this year’s spring turkey season. The Division of Wildlife will continue to monitor the game check system and make changes as need for customer convenience.

Game-check transactions are available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays. License agents’ locations are available for turkey check-in during normal business hours. Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation. All turkeys must be checked in by 11 p.m. the day of kill.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio hunters harvested a preliminary total of 2,646 bearded wild turkeys on the first day of the spring turkey-hunting season, which is open statewide through May 15, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Top counties for wild turkeys killed on Monday were: Guernsey – 94; Adams – 88; Tuscarawas – 85; Muskingum – 81; Coshocton and Knox – 79; Belmont – 73; Washington – 72; Brown – 71; and Ashtabula – 70.

The Division of Wildlife estimates that more than 70,000 people will hunt turkeys during the four-week season. Legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until noon from April 18 to May 1, 2011. Hunting hours May 2-15 will be a half hour before sunrise to sunset. Ohio’s wild turkey population was estimated at 200,000 prior to the start of the spring season.

A special youth-only hunt for hunters age 17 and younger was held statewide on Saturday and Sunday, April 16-17. Young hunters killed 1,455 birds statewide. Top reporting counties were: Ashtabula – 49; Brown and Tuscarawas – 47; Highland – 46; Licking – 45; Muskingum – 44; Carroll – 42; Jackson – 40; and Adams and Washington – 38.

Only bearded wild turkeys may be taken during the spring hunting season. A hunter is required to check in their turkey by 11 p.m. on the day of harvest. Hunters with the proper permits may take a limit of two bearded gobblers during the four-week season, but not more than one wild turkey per day.

Hunters must still report their turkey harvest, but they are no longer required to take their turkey to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

* On the Internet at wildohio.com or ohiogamecheck.com
* By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a turkey permit to hunt turkeys.
* At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at wildohio.com

Game-check transactions will be available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays. License agents’ locations will be available for turkey check-in during normal business hours. Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation. All turkeys must be checked in by 11 p.m. the day of kill.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

EDITORS NOTE – Below is a list of preliminary wild turkey harvest results for the 2011 spring season opening day:

Adams – 88; Allen – 7; Ashland – 24; Ashtabula – 70; Athens – 69; Auglaize – 4; Belmont – 73; Brown – 71; Butler – 30; Carroll – 41; Champaign – 14; Clark – 4; Clermont – 54; Clinton – 9; Columbiana – 56; Coshocton – 79; Crawford – 15; Cuyahoga – 1; Darke – 3; Defiance – 19; Delaware – 20; Erie – 8; Fairfield – 21; Fayette – 0; Franklin – 4; Fulton – 9; Gallia – 64; Geauga – 42; Greene – 6; Guernsey – 94; Hamilton – 30; Hancock – 5; Hardin – 8; Harrison – 67; Henry – 4; Highland – 59; Hocking – 44; Holmes – 30; Huron – 31; Jackson – 43; Jefferson – 62; Knox – 79; Lake – 11; Lawrence – 29; Licking – 67; Logan – 24; Lorain – 15; Lucas – 3; Madison – 0; Mahoning – 24; Marion – 4; Medina – 11; Meigs – 69; Mercer – 3; Miami – 5; Monroe – 55; Montgomery – 1; Morgan – 54; Morrow – 31; Muskingum – 81; Noble – 31; Ottawa – 0; Paulding – 7; Perry – 38; Pickaway – 4; Pike – 46; Portage – 29; Preble – 10; Putnam – 3; Richland – 53; Ross – 58; Sandusky – 3; Scioto – 36; Seneca – 22; Shelby – 6; Stark – 27; Summit – 4; Trumbull – 47; Tuscarawas – 85; Union – 7; Van Wert – 3; Vinton – 33; Warren – 17; Washington – 72; Wayne – 15; Williams – 24; Wood – 4; Wyandot – 14. Total – 2,646.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. --(Ammoland.com)- It is the shotgunners’ turn to take to the woods when the spring shotgun turkey hunting season opens April 16. Hunters are expected to harvest good numbers of turkeys from the state’s ample population.

Archers have been hunting since March 25 and youth shotgunners since April 9. All spring turkey seasons close May 31.

Permits are $24 for Nebraska residents, $91 for nonresidents, and $6 for youth. They may be purchased at OutdoorNebraska.org.

A spring turkey permit is valid statewide and allows the harvest of turkeys with archery equipment during the archery season or with a shotgun during the shotgun season. Legal shooting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset and the bag limit is one male or bearded female turkey per permit. No hunter may have more than three spring turkey permits in a calendar year.

Youth permits are for those under the age of 16.

“The $6 youth permit is an affordable way to introduce children to a lifelong enjoyment of the sport and of the outdoors,” said Jeff Lusk, Game and Parks upland game program manager. “It was extremely popular in 2010, and we hope to see its popularity continue to grow.”

Another good season of turkey hunting is expected. In 2010, 24,182 turkeys were harvested during the spring, including 2,912 by youth. There were 30,693 spring turkey permits sold last year, as well as 6,210 youth permits. Youth permit sales had increased 124 percent from the year before.

The overall success rate for spring turkey hunters harvesting at least one turkey was 66.8 percent last year. The rate was 69.3 percent for regular permit holders and 46.9 for youth.

Vero Vellini Gun Slings

MOORESTOWN, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- Each year, nearly 2 million turkey hunters head to the woods in the hopes of harvesting a turkey.

Chasing these keen-sighted birds requires hunters to not only wear head-to-toe camouflage but also to have comfortable and reliable equipment.

To accommodate turkey hunters across the country, Vero Vellini offers Quick Attach Swivel Slings in Advantage Timber camouflage.

Vero Vellini Gun Slings

Compatible with any shotgun with swivel studs, Vero Vellini offers both a Wide-Top sling and a Standard Width sling. The slip-proof feature of Vero Vellini slings is what sets them apart from the other slings on the market. Thanks to a rubber backing, the Quick Attach Swivel Sling will absolutely keep your shotgun positioned on your shoulder—an especially important feature when you have your hands full with decoys, blinds and calls.

Constructed of high performance materials such as durable DuPontÒ CorduraÒ nylon and closed-cell neoprene, the Vero Vellini sling offers maximum wear and durability for decades of use in the field. All edges are piped to prevent fraying, and the camo Cordura surface is laminated to the neoprene for a smooth, even finish.

When hunting for the wily birds this season, be comfortable and invisible with a Vero Vellini Quick Attach Swivel Sling in Advantage Timber camo. Available at retailers nationwide with suggested retail prices starting at $39.99.

Vero Vellini is the acknowledged leader in comfortable, handcrafted gun slings. For nearly two decades, the company has been crafting these beautifully detailed and highly durable slings in Germany. Vero Vellini created the Air Cushion concept, which sandwiches neoprene and other natural and synthetic material to create an almost weightless feeling when carrying a firearm. The company also boasts the most slip-proof sling available from the use of a unique, highly durable rubber backing. Vero Vellini also manufactures fast-access cartridge cases and straps for binoculars and cameras. For more information on Vero Vellini, contact: Pioneer Research, 97 Foster Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057; call 800-257-7742; or visit http://www.pioneer-research.com/verovellini.asp.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that spring turkey licenses are still available.

The 2011 season runs from April 18 through May 31 with hunts lasting from seven to 44 days, depending upon the hunt unit. Available licenses can be viewed at www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings. Licenses will be sold until quotas are met.

“Generally, turkey numbers are good across the state,” said Al Stewart, DNR upland game bird specialist. “More area is open to spring turkey hunting this year than ever before and people have many hunting opportunities.”

Over 40,000 private-land only licenses are available for Hunt No. 301 (Unit ZZ), which includes most of southern Michigan. Those hunting private land should receive permission to hunt before purchasing a private-land only license.

For hunters wanting more latitude, Hunt No. 234 is a great choice. This hunt includes all areas of the state open to spring turkey hunting except the public lands of southern Michigan, and extends from May 2-31. Hunt No. 234 licenses can be purchased through May 1. After May 1, Hunt No. 234 will be available only to those who applied for a hunt in the drawing.

Michigan residents can purchase a spring turkey license for $15, while seniors can purchase a spring turkey license for $6. To purchase licenses, go to www.mdnr-elicense.com or visit any license agent.

Michigan’s current turkey population is estimated at over 200,000 birds and turkey hunters here are privileged with one of the longest turkey seasons nationwide. Last spring, turkey hunters harvested about 37,000 gobblers.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Springtime Reminder For Turkey Hunters - Safety First

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

PRATT, KS --(Ammoland.com)- The youth/disabled and archery spring turkey seasons began April 1 and run through April 12, and the regular season runs April 13-May 31. During these seasons, Kansas hunters must remember one word that exemplifies the perfect hunt: safety.

Responsible hunters are sure of their targets — and what lies beyond them — before firing, and they hunt defensively to protect themselves from the mistakes of others.

The following are just a few defensive safety tips to follow when pursuing America’s largest game bird this spring:

• set up against a stump, tree, or rock that is wider than your shoulders and higher than your head;
• never wear or carry the colors red, white, light blue, or black — the colors of a wild turkey gobbler — when turkey hunting;
• eliminate movement and set up in open timber rather than thick brush;
• avoid imitating the sound of a gobbling turkey;
• watch other game and listen for the alarm cries of blue jays, crows, squirrels, or woodpeckers that can tip you off to the presence of another hunter;
• assume any noise you hear is another hunter; and
• never move, wave, or make turkey sounds to alert another hunter of your presence but remain still and call out in a loud, clear voice to announce.

Including the archery-only season and youth/disabled seasons, Kansas hunters will be able to hunt for two full months. During the youth season, youth 16 and younger must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.

The adult may not hunt during the youth season (except with archery equipment). No hunting license is required for resident hunters 15 and younger, but a valid Kansas turkey permit is required.

For more information, contact the nearest office of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks or visit the agency’s website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us.
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Mossberg Turkey THUG Shotguns

Mossberg

WEST POINT, MS – --(Ammoland.com)- Mossy Oak’s new television series, Turkey THUG, began the 2011 season with exclusive Turkey THUG Series shotguns from Mossberg.

“We’re extremely proud to partner with Mossberg on the Turkey THUG Series shotguns. Both Mossy Oak and Mossberg have always been focused on basing our products on time-tested experience and on making products that work for hunters.

The new Turkey THUG shotguns from Mossberg are a result of that commitment and are the perfect fit for us here at Mossy Oak,” said Ronnie “Cuz” Strickland.

Mossberg’s Turkey THUG series includes three shotguns with Turkey THUG Series engraved on the receiver.

Select models are available in matte black or Break-Up Infinity. The guns will be used exclusively on Turkey THUG in 2011 and 2012.

Turkey THUG Series models include:

• · Mossberg 500 in matte black
• · Mossberg 535 in Break-Up Infinity with TRUGLO red-dot · Mossberg 535 in Break-Up Infinity
• · Mossberg 835 in Break-Up Infinity

Turkey THUG airs January through June on Sundays at 9:00 p.m. EST on the Pursuit Channel. For more information on Turkey THUG, visit www.mossyoak.com or www.pursuitchannel.com. For more information on Mossberg, log on to www.mossberg.com.

Mossberg Turkey THUG Shotguns

Turkey THUG Series Shotguns from Mossberg are officially licensed products of Mossy Oak/Haas Outdoors Inc. Turkey THUG® and Break-Up Infinity® are trademarks of Haas Outdoors Inc. Headquartered in West Point, Miss., Haas Outdoors Inc. was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, MOOSE Media, Nativ Nurseries and Mossy Oak Properties.

From left to right: Ivan Geise (Michigan Wild Turkey Hunters Association), Al Bobrofsky (National Wild Turkey Federation), Jennifer Kleitch (Michigan Department of Natural Resources—Wildlife Division), Sam Geise (NWTF), Don Minier (NWTF).

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- Thirteen wild turkey hens that were native to Barry County have been relocated to Oscoda County, the Department of Natural Resources announced today.

The trap-and-transfer operation was a joint effort of the DNR, Michigan Wild Turkey Hunters Association, National Wild Turkey Federation and the Mio Chamber of Commerce, as part of a plan to revitalize the northern Michigan wild turkey population, which has been in decline during the last decade.

The birds, which were trapped on private land in an area with a robust turkey population, were released on public land near Fairview, a town once billed as the “Wild Turkey Capitol of Michigan.”

From left to right: Jennifer Kleitch (Michigan Department of Natural Resources—Wildlife Division), Tony Snyder (National Wild Turkey Federation), Keith Fisher (Michigan Department of Natural Resources—Wildlife Division), and Ivan Geise (Michigan Wild Turkey Hunters Association).

Al Stewart, the DNR’s upland game bird specialist, said more wild turkeys may be released in northern Michigan this year if weather conditions remain conducive to trapping birds in southern Michigan.

“This is an excellent example of our employees working with our stakeholders to enhance wildlife populations and produce high-quality outdoor experiences,” said DNR Director Rodney Stokes.

Wild turkeys were once totally extirpated from Michigan, but thanks to cooperative efforts of the DNR and conservation groups, turkey populations are now thriving in many parts of the state.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Nikon TurkeyPro BTR 'Strut into Savings' Mail-In Rebate

Nikon Hunting

Melville, NY --(Ammoland.com)- Spring is just around the corner and Nikon is helping savvy turkey hunters Strut Into Savings with a great addition to their favorite turkey shotgun.

From now until May 31st hunters can enjoy up to an $80 mail-in rebate on Mr. Tom’s worst nightmare the Nikon TurkeyPro BTR (Ballistic Turkey Reticle).

“Designed and built with help from the nation’s top turkey hunters, the TurkeyPro BTR will help hunters target gobblers faster and be more confident when pulling the trigger,” said Jon Allen, General Manager of Nikon Sport Optics. “Combining it with a huge cash rebate means this scope is affordable for every turkey chaser in the woods.”

Available in Realtree APG, Mossy Oak Break-Up and a Matte finish, the TurkeyPro BTR is a 1.65-5x36mm multi-coated scope with five full inches of eye relief. The BTR reticle is designed to work as a ranging tool as well as an aiming device. The BTR’s circle within a circle construction allows shooters to use convergence to know when a turkey steps into range. Hunters simply place the small circle, on low power, or the large circle, on high power, to cover or subtend the turkey from head to wattles at 40 yards. The center circle acts as the aiming point and allows the shooter to still “see” the exact target spot even on low power.

The innovations with this turkey scope don’t stop with the reticle system. The TurkeyPro also features a removable Anti-Reflective Device (ARD), a first for turkey hunters.

For more details on the Strut into Savings promotion visit nikonpromo.com.

Nikon TurkeyPro BTR Mail-In Rebate

Nikon Inc. is the U.S. distributor of Nikon sports and recreational optics, world-renowned Nikon 35mm cameras, digital cameras, speedlights and accessories, Nikkor lenses and electronic imaging products.

For more information on Nikon’s full line of Riflescopes, Binoculars, Spotting Scopes, Fieldscopes and Laser Rangefinders, please contact: Nikon Sport Optics, 1300 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747-3064, or call 1-800-645-6687. www.nikonhunting.com.

All Nikon trademarks are the property of Nikon Corporation.

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Wisconsin department of natural resources wild turkey update – leftover 2011 spring turkey permits go on sale next week!

The 2011 Spring Turkey Season is just around the corner and leftover spring turkey permits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis starting next week! Sales begin Monday, March 21 and leftover permits will be first issued for sale by zone, one zone per day, with each zone having a designated sales date as follows:

• Zone 1 = Monday, March 21st, 10am – midnight
• Zone 2 = Tuesday, March 22nd, 10am – midnight
• Zone 3 = Wednesday, March 23rd, 10am – midnight
• Zone 4 = Thursday, March 24th, 10am – midnight
• Zone 5 & Zone 6 = Friday, March 25th, 10am – midnight
• Any permits still remaining for all zones = Saturday, March 26th, starting at 10am and continuing until all permits are sold out or the season has come to an end

For information on how many permits remain in each zone and when, where, and how to purchase a leftover permit, please visit the DNR’s 2011 Spring Turkey Leftover Permit Availability website at www.dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/springturkey/.

Best of luck for an enjoyable and successful spring turkey season!

• To see this week’s press release announcing the upcoming leftover spring turkey permit sales, please visit: www.dnr.wi.gov/news/weekly.asp
• To visit the DNR’s Wild Turkey website, please visit: www.new.dnr.wi.gov/Default.aspx?Page=72659862-f510-474f-8f33-0f0d2a0b08d9