April 3, 2010

  The weather was fit only for a duck as Justin's mother dropped him off. Lightning, thunder and rain made it look to be a long day of inactive birds and wet feet. But the action was to prove hot for Justin and guide Robert Schroader.

  As they headed in to the blind Robert had set up for the youngster after scouting in the days prior to the hunt the rain showed signs of letting up. With the decoy in place and daylight approaching fast wouldn't you know it the string holding the shooting sticks together broke as Justin settled into the ready position. With no time to make a run for another string and a close bird gobblin  Robert pulled off his belt and McGYVERED the sticks back together. As shooting light broke a little cackle and a few chirps from Roberts call was all it took to get six gobblers on a dead run for the decoy and as they circled the decoy Justin made a great shot at 25 yards and a foot race was the next event to occur. 

  Justin's bird had a 10 inch beard and 3/4 inch spurs.

  Justin had a smile that went on forever.

  The entire hunt lasted only a short 30 minutes but I think the youngster's memory of his first gobbler will last for many years to come.  

   2011 Youth Kills

 One more youngster was in the thick of the hunt when a pack of coyotes busted the decoys and came within 15 yards of the blind. The Gobbler flew out and roosted in some large trees and kept a safe perch as the coyotes trampled the field. A great experience none the less. We wish you better luck in the adult season Gabe!