Just getting back on-line and seen the comments about STUPIDER & STUPIDER. As a Hunter Safety Instructor I dispise these types of idiots yet they exist. I have copied the article to share with my next round of students. HOWEVER, On the POSITIVE SIDE this weekend we concluded a very successful YOUTH HUNT in Clay County, FL. We have another set for mid-Jan in Baker County, FL. Below is an excerpt from the Hunt Masters final report submitted to the FWC. Clay County Youth Hunt; 17-19 Nov 2006 Matt K, Landowner
James S & Greg S; FL Certified Hunt Masters
Charles J; Hunter Safety Officer
Becky S; Camp Cook Youth Hunters were:
1. Colton C. and Dad Mark C.
2. Trevor C. and Dad Mark C.
3. Michael M. and Dad, Hon. John M.
4. Jack M. and Dad, Hon. John M.
5. Dustin S. & Mom, Sarah S.
6. Mark S. & Dad, Greg S.
7. David M. & Mom, Becky S.
8. Wil D. & Dad, Joe D.
9. Cody R. & Guardian, Leonard P. Our youth hunters harvested a total of 8 deer. David M., Mark S., and Trevor C. each harvested two does. Colton C. and Michael M. each harvested one. The deer harvested were the first for all except David M. David actually enjoyed having a taste of Nanny Doe milk from Doe #2 of Mark S. All but 1 hunter either harvested a deer or shot at one or two. Dustin S. saw a bald eagle and several nice legal bucks however the hunt was herd mgmt. hunt for does only. Wil D. probably fired more rounds than anyone as he was seriously handicapped by bringing only a 20 ga pump shotgun to shoot. There were rifles available but he had never handled one by his own admission so the decision was made by the Hunt Masters in consultation with the Hunter Safety Officer to let him continue with the shotgun. While Mark S. was cleaning his 2nd doe, the cleaning shed was visited by FWC Law Enforcement Officer Mike G. who, at the request of the Hunt Masters made contact with Mark and inquired about hunting license, and other probing questions, much to the delight of land owner Matt K. and all others in attendance. Mr. K’s ranch could very well be the most perfect place to hold such an event. Accommodations were truly primitive, but our hunters and volunteers pulled through just fine despite morning temperatures being in the mid 30’s with completely frosted tents each morning. Mr. K. provided a freshly butchered hog for dinner on Sat. and a very nice cook trailer for us to use. Our hosts were truly outstanding and left us needing nothing. All involved appreciated their Mentoring and friendship. Guides were Linsey S., Pete M., Jeff B., and Matt K. All made certain that each hunter sat a different stand for each hunt and did everything possible to ensure each had a positive experience. I would be remiss if I failed to mention Mr. K's dog “Bear” who is a crippled older Black Lab who performed almost unbelievably well finding our deer that ran off wounded. Bear worked as hard as anyone in attendance. Probably the most significant event involved the M. family. Both Jack and Michael were registered with the youngest Michael being registered as a non-hunter. When their was a no-show, we were faced with a position unfilled. Mr. M. was given the opportunity to allow both of his sons to hunt. Jack was eagerly looking forward to hunting with his Dad but felt it was more important for his younger brother Michael to experience his first hunt with Dad. Jack then was assigned to a guide who would hunt with him. Jack is a very bright and special young man who had figured out even before the first hunt took place what this program is all about. As it turned out Michael was able to harvest a deer with his Dad present and has given their entire family memories that will last a lifetime. Mr. K. was presented with Thank You letters from all but one hunter who was busy cleaning deer during the time scheduled for the letter writing. Each youth hunter who harvested their first deer were blooded by seasoned veterans and welcomed to our fraternity in customary form. All who participated were provided venison by those who harvested game so all could enjoy the "Taste of the Hunt". This was truely a positive experience for all involved - the hunters demonstrated ethics, landowers with herd mgmt & guidance with this all tied to safety. The cooperation, fellowship and unselfishness was truely incredible.
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