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The 31 Day War
April 30th 2021, the Gobbler Wars begin in 20 hours as I write this! Each spring and fall season we sign up voluntarily and without reservation despite the well documented side effects of sleep deprivation, increased irritability, and a pronounced increase in the use of foul language. It is expected when matching wits with a gobbler with a pea sized brain… For us old grumpy turkey hunters, irritability and foul language might not be that unusual…
The pic used for this musing is of a gobbler I have on my target list. It is a long-distance shot even for a mirror lens as the glass I would need to make this a much better pic would run the cost of a 10-12 year old used car. This gobbler shows up as he does captured here on a well traveled road on a property I do not have permission to hunt on. A solid three quarters of mile from a property I can approach him from. I’ll bide my time as with that many hunters that have laid eyes on him, he’ll been finished early, or pushed off on to property I can access. This is similar to a dandy gobbler I tagged several years ago, same scenario, same property.
As many of you, I’ll be glassing a lot of territory today, especially this evening. High winds and more rain in Cortland County is expected. With the circumstances as they are, unless you can approach your spots close enough to hear, your binoculars are your best tool to gain critical clues for tomorrow morning. Hopefully you have a month’s worth of scouting and Intel to piece together your battle plans for the opening weekend, It is likely given the conditions that birds may hunker down and not be visible at all as you might otherwise expect. If you have been out the past month working up several dossier’s you have a one up on gaining contact with a gobbler this weekend. I know several hard core turkey hunters that will start their scouting for 2022, on June 1st and they have a collection of long spurs that affirms their year long scouting habits of many years of due diligence. Contrary to popular opinion, they primarily hunt New York State Forests, affirming they are as good if not better than private holdings. I can attest to this also, as it has been my experience over the past decade.
To each of you, I wish a fruitful month long battle full of memories, and close encounters with our favored game bird. Be safe, and may you enjoy your time in the great Turkey woods of New York!!
MJ
© 2021
Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Turkey Hunter Shot-Stalking? Decoys? Reaping? True Stories?
Out of all the topics I cover as an outdoor writer this topic is perhaps the most gut-wrenching to follow up on.
For those of you that follow my posts, you may recall last spring’s post- Eleven Turkey Hunters Shot…. since then I learned of more incidents from the same season for a total of 16 hunters shot. Other than a few brief paragraphs, no details that we might want to know were disclosed which brings me to the following observations… I can assure you, I conduct repeated searches for updates.
I had full intentions to report follow-ups to each of these unfortunate and preventable events. Several had positive story angles of their hunting partners responding Godspeed with emergency care, and immediate transport to professional medical care facilities. Modern-day heroes if you will indulge me. I do hope that interviews be granted in the future as the value of having a hunting partner can make all the difference in hunting strategies and for the unexpected events we may encounter.
The following story I reported on does have further developments: Father and 11-year-old son shot while turkey hunting, Son succumbed to his injuries. https://mynbc15.com/news/local/mobile-man-charged-in-hunting-accident-that-left-11-year-old-boy-dead Update: the initial charge upgraded to capital murder- https://www.al.com/news/2020/12/veteran-now-charged-with-capital-murder-in-11-year-old-jeffco-boys-hunting-death.html
Other victims, although very open and willing to share their initial experiences, Did not contact afterwards when things settled down. It is not a criticism as full respect for their privacy and my unwillingness to engage in tabloid journalism is the approach here. I have left the door open should they wish to in the future.
For the past two decades, I have tracked stories when they occur. In doing the research other than an initial story, historic search results in one or two paragraphs with little detail at all, in general, reporters see no distinction in how hunting accidents (yes, they call them that) occur nor provide the terms and details we often use to nail down specifics. In each of the events, I have followed the trail of, coverage falls off sharply as one could deduct that hunters shooting hunters ranks rather low in the public interest, and barely a mention in today’s wall-to-wall 24/7 news cycles.
The lack of detailed data can be attributed to HIPAA laws, restricted access in active investigations/court cases, and a tendency for victims to remain private following a shooting encounter. I could ultimately use the FOIL process to gain further details that law enforcement and wildlife agencies are not eager to share. Access to databases used by enforcement, and wildlife agencies would certainly add more to the story. Given the victims’ clear desire for privacy, it is not an intrusive tact I wish to take.
Having covered such topics I am often challenged, demanding proof by naysayers and advocates of stalking/reaping/fanning turkeys that there are no such events, and that reaping and fanning-related shootings do not occur at all. It is the equivalent of burying one’s head in the sand. Vetted studies that suggest otherwise, are a contributing factor in states enacting an outright ban on the practices. Should you care to research this you’ll find as I have that nearly all of the reported news of turkey hunting-related shooting incidents is lacking in substantive details. Having met and known those directly as victims I close this line of thought as too many armchair experts are willfully ignorant in order to support such methods. Non-apologetic for criticism of the absence of common sense and basic safety concerns.
To be fair, to add proper context and perspective, overall with millions of participants engaged in pursuing wild turkeys, we are a rather polite and safe lot despite being sometimes referred to as bloodthirsty killers roaming the woods with bows and shotguns. Statistically, by the numbers, turkey hunting is one of the safest activities we can indulge in. That said, can we agree that zero occurrences are the acceptable incident rate?
As I write this, a report comes out of Union, South Carolina of a hunter shot this morning, no details other than one taken to the hospital, One can assume while turkey hunting? Maybe? As such, no details as of yet.
Having spoken to some of the victims from the spring 2020 hunting incidents directly (some have declined), I can attest to the occurrences with ill-fated results of stalking, reaping, fanning, and the poor acts of shooting decoys, even hen decoys during a rushed shot, where we as shooters have an obligation to identify our targets, just as we are obligated to not present undue risk in our actions. This is much the same concept as taught in defensive driving courses.
It is one thing to read of these events, it is entirely different to speak to victims over the phone, in written correspondence, yet again in a more profound way to meet in person at NWTF national conventions to be handed a full dossier with full-color photos and to shake their hand directly. I can assure you it leaves a lasting impression as to the aftermath of these ill-fated events.
As half the country is currently in season, the next few weeks will open up for the remaining states. It is my sincere hope to have no incidents to comment on, and that you can keep posting the hero pics and smiling faces of youths out for their very first hunts. I prefer those. I wish each of you a safe and memorable season…
-MJ
© 2021 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
March 8, 2021 Update- Spring Turkey Hunting & Fishing COVID-19 Restrictions
The following is a current update of currently impacted state hunting and fishing seasons as the current reality… I will continue to update this when states ease and or rescind restrictions entirely. Instead of season shutdowns as in 2020, states that have 10 to 14-day quarantines may also opt out with 72 hour testing to forgo the quarantine which modifies our plans at the least, or ends the possibilities of taking the trip in the worst scenario. In general most of the restrictions will affect all travel without regard to purpose. Canada is currently shut down for all recreational activities for non-residents.
Please review your home state for return restrictions as you would for your next hunting or fishing destination as 21 of the 50 states are currently subjected to restrictions. Those planning to hunt tribal lands, or military bases check directly with their respective websites for latest status.
Alaska– update 3/8 non-resident travelers to Alaska are no longer required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result in order to gain entry but are strongly encouraged to do so. As of March 5, Alaska’s Safe Travels website did not reflect the policy change.
-2nd test, taken five to14 days after arrival in Alaska, is strongly recommended, but not required.
-All non-resident travelers must still complete a Travel Declaration Form and a Self-Isolation Plan
-Asymptomatic travelers contracted / recovered from COVID-19 can forego testing by providing proof of a previously positive result of a PCR test taken within 90 days of travel.
California: Regional stay-at-home orders issued in January have been lifted. restrictions exist in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Santa Clara County- travelers arriving from over 150 miles away must quarantine for 10 days. In most counties, hotels can welcome travelers and restaurants can serve outdoors. Los Angeles, all travelers over the age of 16 who are entering from another state or country must submit this online form Form must be filled in when arriving into an airport or Union station.
Connecticut: update 3/8 A policy update is set to take effect on March 19, transitioning Connecticut’s mandatory travel restrictions to recommended guidance, Currently in force: Travelers must quarantine for 10 days except from New Jersey, New York or Rhode Island. All must submit online health form $500 fine for non-compliance. Second option: Covid-19 test taken in the past 72 hours or to take a test upon arrival and quarantine until the results come through.
District of Columbia: visiting from high risk states for more than 24 hours must show a negative Covid-19 test no more than 72 hours prior. If longer than a three day stay, another test must be done three to five days after arrival. High-risk states are categorized as those having more than 10 daily Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people. An interactive map complied by The New York Times shows which districts and regions meet this threshold. Travelers from Maryland and Virginia are exempt.
Hawaii: 10-day quarantine unless a negative nucleic acid amplification test results (NAAT)–taken at an approved site–in hand upon arrival or uploaded – health form online. A QR code rquired to be given to airport screeners upon arrival. At least 25% of arriving passengers will be randomly selected for a free, second, rapid Covid-19 test at the airport. Travelers must stay for results to come through before they leave.
Kauai County, must go into quarantine for 10 days unless heading into a “resort bubble”; those staying at specific hotels can arrive with a negative PCR test, head directly to their resort upon arrival, tested onsite, two to three days later. They will remain in quarantine during their stay.
Illinois: no statewide quarantine orders. Chicago has a 10 day quarantine mandate or COVID test within 72 hours of traveling for Non-residents, arrivals into Chicago are categorized into two groups, orange and yellow, based on the infection rates in the home states.
Kansas: mandatory 10 day quarantine is needed for anyone who has:
- taken a sea/river cruise since 3/25/2020
- attended out-of-state mass gathering >500 people (masks not worn and unable to keep further than 6 feet apart).
One can ‘test out’ of a 10-day quarantine on day 6 of quarantine and released on day 8 with a negative result (instead of day 11).
Kentucky: 14-day quarantine is recommended for visitors and returning residents.
Maine: 10-day quarantine or negative Covid-19 test in the past 72 hours. Arrivals w/ pending tests must isolate until results obtained. All types of Covid-19 tests accepted. Arrivals must sign a Certificate of Compliance.
Maryland: quarantine for 10 days or negative Covid-19 test taken up to 72 hours before arrival. Visitors advised to re-test 72 hours later. Travelers arriving from Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, D.C. are exempt. Those failing to conform will face a $5,000 fine or a year in prison.
Massachusetts: update 3/8 arrivals must fill in a travel form. Arrivals from high-risk states- quarantine for 10 days or produce a negative Covid-19 test taken within the last 72 hours. The fine for non-compliance is $500 per day. Hawaii, Missouri, Oregon, Washington and Puerto Rico currently listed low-risk states.
Minnesota: 14 day quarantine upon entry (or re-entry), out-of-state travel is discouraged.
New Hampshire: If arriving from other than a New England state (Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island), travelers are asked to quarantine for 10 days. After seven days, travelers can ‘test out’ with a negative PCR test. Exemption for anyone who has had the second Covid-19 vaccine more than 14 days prior to travel–no need to get tested or quarantine. Those who had Covid-19 more than 90 days prior to travel and are recovered (and have proof) are also exempt.
New Jersey: currently advising against all non-essential interstate travel. Visitors and returning travelers must quarantine for 10 days if not tested. Those with a negative test are asked to isolate for 7 days. Travel from New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware is exempt. All other travelers must complete an online survey.
New Mexico: quarantine for 14 days or the entire length of stay.
New York: update 3/8 fully-vaccinated travelers who received the final dose of their vaccine within the preceding 90 days are exempt from quarantine and testing rules
Those arriving from a non-bordering state (New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware) are exempted. 14-day quarantine, visitors can ‘test out’ to a 3 day quarantine with a negative test taken 72 hours before arrival. Travelers with negative results from second test taken on day four may leave quarantine.
All visitors must fill out a Traveler Health Form, non compliance with regulations, face a fine of up to $10,000 Those who leave New York for less than 24 hours do not need to get a test before returning, nor do they need to quarantine. They must get a Covid-19 test on the fourth day back.
Ohio: restricting travel from states with a 15% positive testing rate, requires self-quarantine for 14 days; this currently includes–Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Texas.
Oregon: 14-day quarantine Non-essential travel and tourism is ill-advised.
Pennsylvania: update 3/8 Travelers no longer required to quarantine for 10 days or supply negative test results for entry.
Rhode Island: 14 day quarantine if arriving from states with a >5% positive testing rate. Exemption for negative Covid-19 test taken in the last 72 hours. Exception doesn’t apply to international travelers. Travelers must complete a certificate of compliance and a travel screening form. Travelers may take a test upon arrival and quarantine until negative Covid-19 test result is obtained.
update 3/8 The updated spreadsheet currently lists Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
No exemption for those having Covid-19 vaccination. Those that have had Covid-19 in the past 90 days and completed isolation periods, are exempted.
Vermont: 14 day quarantine Visitors can end the quarantine after 7 days with proof of a negative Covid-19 test. Those arriving by car or plane (as well as rental cars) can complete quarantine and testing in another state before arriving. Those staying in short-term rental or lodging and campsites must submit a certificate of compliance or an online compliance statement when they check-in.
States that currently have no travel restrictions: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (Pitkin County requires a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival), Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana (although visitors to the seven Indian reservations should check), Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota (some roads through Native American reservations are closed), Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
Washington State: 14-day quarantine
Canada– US Border currently closed to all non-essential travel https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/covid/non-canadians-canadiens-eng.html#er1
© 2021
Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Have We Forgotten 9/11? Those Who Serve us?
Have you Forgotten? Your families? Your neighbors? Your friends? Your ideological opponents? Is this just an annoyance to your daily routine?
Despite my incessant repetition for which I will not apologize: No I have not forgotten, hell no…
Each day, every day on every news channel, news website, social media we get “fuck the pigs”, “defund the police” and more colorful vulgar chants or disparaging language. The narrative that the men and women in blue are chasing down and murdering blacks as some perversion of sick folly driven by hundreds of years of racism. .
With 800K+ LEO’s in the US and a number between ten and twenty unarmed blacks killed annually (number has declined for the past decade) it is not a plague nor an all out assault due to racism.
We have a narrative that labels all those in blue as murderous, racist, unnecessary, unneeded, to have wholesale support withdrawn for political gains. Have we forgotten that those who serve us, see a burning building, a crime in progress, innocents being assaulted and their first instinct is to go towards the danger, to save as many as possible even though they may never see their loved ones ever again?
Of the 2,977 victims killed in the September 11 attacks, 412 were emergency workers in New York City who responded. Out of the 125 that perished at the pentagon no first responders were lost:
343 firefighters, a chaplain and 2 paramedics of the NYC Fire Department
37 police officers -Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Dept.
23 police officers of the NYC Police Dept.
8 emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
1 patrolman from the NY Fire Patrol
Do we fail to honor the lives lost on this fateful day, those lost while serving us each and every day? We hate each other by party affiliation, by whom we vote for, align ourselves with. We are uncivil without cause. We are better than this. I can remember a time…
Are we so entrenched that we forgo living the American Dream and all that it stands for? That we take on the daily challenges, for us to live well and in service to each other as it is tribute to those who sacrificed for us?
For those of you that are polar opposite to my conservative thoughts, that we might not share a strong Irish Stout together, I can toast to our betterment in life and the hope we return to the land of united bloody Americans (as the Brits would call us.)
I have not forgotten:
The memories, the feelings from that day have not faded, nor diminished. It was to be a perfect blue bird day in September.
The near perfect September day morphed, shattered for thousands of victims in mere seconds for many, some in agonizing, terror filled minutes, hours yet for others.
In the ripples of life, our greatest loss is to never know or benefit from what great deeds and accomplishments from all those lost.
That we came together as Americans.We were united as Americans. We still are Americans. Many have forgotten this very fact in recent times.
Those that perished on this fateful day of September 11th, 2001.
Those that gave all in order to save lives. Heroes that walk among us to this day.
Those who survived only to succumb to it days, months, and years later.
That we are all equal by way of our maker
This is republish each year as I find it so important to include:
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts return to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for our country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. We can all benefit from a little emphasis on acts of kindness.
© 2020 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Eleven Turkey Hunters Shot During The 2nd Half Of April, The First Week In May.
This is an update to the previous blog post Seven Turkey Hunters Shot in the 2nd Half of April… As mentioned before our hunting community has no tolerance for one much less eleven fellow turkey hunting brethren being loaded up in an ambulance or worse… None of us want to be there…
I’ll repeat for those that missed the first post: 2.5 million turkey hunters are afield in any given year, the incident rate hovers below 0.003% in an average year. Not to minimize the impact on the victims, the context is that 99.997% of us do the right things and hunt safely. The families and friends would have a very different perspective, and we pray for their families and swift recoveries.
Having said this, indulge me here… once you squeeze that trigger, release your arrow, it cannot be undone, you cannot put the shot load back in the shell, no more than the arrow back on it’s rest. It is 100% avoidable by our own due diligence and commitment to hunting safety. We owe this to each other. Please review common safety tips at the bottom of this.
I have a few updates on the first seven I covered, and now an eight and ninth injured in a shooting incident (archery tackle, making it the second one this season) where the hunter survived, but with gruesome results. It’s not pretty. I’ll refrain from posting the picture. Trust me for not crossing the line with gore as I’ll not stoop to tabloid sensationalism. His partner was hit after a bolt made a pass thru, luckily it did not penetrate. Sadden to report two more shot where an 11-year-old boy has died. His father was also wounded and is recovering.
Turkey Hunter Survives Being Shot in Face; Virginia Game & Inland Fisheries Investigating https://www.outdoorsrambler.com/post/turkey-hunter-survives-being-shot-in-face-virginia-game-inland-fisheries-investigating By Ken Perrotte Update- Shooter has been charged with a misdemeanor for reckless handling of firearms. I will have a story on this in the coming days– MJ
Hunter Killed In Wednesday Accident At Young County Line (TX) https://www.grahamleader.com/news/hunter-killed-wednesday-accident-young-county-line By Brian Smith No incident details or charges have been announced at this time, it is reported that the incident took place while three life long friends were turkey hunting. A foundation has been created in his memory https://www.facebook.com/SethKeenerFoundation/
Kansas Boy Airlifted to Hospital After Hunting Accident https://hayspost.com/posts/5ea6ce33eb7f1705360383cd Hays Post The victim has moved out of ICU after sustaining a shotgun blast to the head. Details are sparse with the mention of a decoy closed to the victim and the failure of the shooter to identify the target is given as a factor for the incident. No details on type of decoy, movement, fanning or reaping is currently available. Individuals involved are reported to be cooperative and the incident is still under investigation. No charges have been announced at this time.
Hunter Lucky To Be Alive After Being Shot, Mistaken For Turkey In Shannon County, Mo. https://www.ky3.com/content/news/Hunter-lucky-to-be-alive-after-being-shot-mistaken-for-turkey-569940291.html By Michael Deene No further details or charges have been announced at this time.
A 14-Year-Old Boy Shot In Jones County Hunting Accident (NC) https://www.jdnews.com/news/20200421/14-year-old-boy-shot-in-jones-county-hunting-accident By Trevor Dunnell Reported to be recovering from face and neck injuries. No investigation findings have been announced at this time.
Boy Shot In Hunting Accident Airlifted, 2nd sustained gunshot injuries (W.Va) https://wvva.com/2020/04/28/boy-shot-in-hunting-accident-airlifted/ By Bailey Pace Update- Both are reported to be recovering, no further details. The cause is also reported to be a lack of proper target ID, shooting at movement thru dense cover. No changes have been announced as the investigation continues.
Turkey Hunter shot with cross bow (IL) – Eric Rheude survives a horrific broad head pass thru from a crossbow @ 8 yards, also striking his hunting partner in the boot. Shooter was targeting the head of a hen decoy that was sticking out of his turkey vest. DNR Investigation findings have been sent on to the attorney general for possible charges. A full story forthcoming in a few days- MJ
Father and 11-year old son shot while turkey hunting, Son succumbed to his injuries. The shooter has been charged with Reckless Manslaughter. The father sustained minor injuries and treated at the scene. https://mynbc15.com/news/local/mobile-man-charged-in-hunting-accident-that-left-11-year-old-boy-dead
I will repeat here for those just picking up on the story… The following tips, good practices are well advised for your safety and that of others:
- Avoid wearing the bright colors of a gobbler’s head, red, white, or blue. Large areas of black may resemble the body of a turkey. These are turkey colors, and another hunter may mistake you for a bird.
- Be 100% sure of your target. Check your foreground and your background. Those extra seconds of making sure can save a life!
- Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Don’t rely on your gun’s safety. Treat every gun as loaded.
- If you see another hunter, don’t move- any motion can be mistaken for a turkey. Instead, call out to alert the other hunter that you are there. Do not wave or attempt to get up, or use a turkey call to alert the incoming hunter.
- Do not stalk turkey sounds; it could be another hunter. Find a good setup with your back to a tree, rock, or other large natural barriers wider than your shoulders. Then go about working to call the birds to you. Stalking is illegal in many states.
- You may consider placing a hunter orange ribbon high on a tree to help other hunters identify your location, or wear on your person entering or leaving. It is a legal requirement by some states, do not assume orange to be an end-all for safety. Always identify your quarry and what may be in front of, behind, or to either side. You have no guarantee that others are wearing orange…
- Reconsider the assumed risks of using “tail-fanning” or “reaping’ techniques (using gobbler decoys, a synthetic fan, or real tail feathers) out immediately in front of you, mounted on your gun barrel or a head/hat mounted product while crawling or stalking. A fan may be large enough to hide you from view from other hunters and you may falsely assume they will properly identify you vs. a real gobbler.
- Always let someone else know where you will be and when expected to be back via text, email, or phone message. In an emergency, precious minutes can make all the difference for someone to direct first responders to your location or for someone to know when you are late returning.
We continue to pray for those injured, that those that have succumbed to their injuries and for their families. May they heal well Godspeed.
-MJ
© 2020 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Hunting & Fishing Seasons COVID-19 4/28 Update, Improving
Update of currently impacted state turkey hunting and fishing seasons. Some states are now easing up restrictions, hopefully more will be sooner than later. I will continue to update as states ease and or rescind restrictions entirely.
Alaska– current 14-day mandatory quarantine order is extended to May 19, 2020 link added 4/28 Gov. Mike Dunleavy rescinded the cancellation of all spring bear hunts in Alaska Thursday, saying that spring bear hunts will be open to Alaskan hunters, but not available to those non-residents and anyone from outside the state. link
Arkansas– Buffalo National River closure includes angling, turkey hunting. link added 4/18
California– Hunting, fishing on base is suspended until further notice. link Edwards Air Force Base – restricted to mission-essential personnel only. link Fort Hunter Liggett- All 2020 Fishing and 2019-20 Hunting permits sales have been suspended. link
Arizona– San Carlos Apache Reservation turkey hunts canceled link
Colorado– all playgrounds, campgrounds, dispersed camping and camping facilities (including yurts and cabins) at Colorado’s state parks as well as camping at State Wildlife Areas are closed. Spring turkey hunters now are able to return their license for a refund at any time before the opening day of turkey season. link San Juan County-all public lands closed Fort Carson- hunting is NOT available on Fort Carson or Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, USAF Academy “official business only”. Fishing the 5 lakes closed link Yuma County delaying spring turkey season to 5/2/20, Gunnison county banning any visitors until further notice. link
Delaware– All out-of-state residents traveling into Delaware to immediately self-quarantine for 14 days link
Florida– 30-day stay-at-home order. those who fly or drive into Florida from states with substantial community spread to self-isolate in Florida for 14 days or the duration of their trip, whichever is shorter. Some resources are closed link
Georgia– Fort Benning- Restricted to Authorized personnel only link Fort Gordon- close 1 Apr 2020 – 6 June 2020 link The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is temporarily shutting down all dispersed camping corridors, day-use areas, trailhead facilities and other recreation sites on the Blue Ridge Ranger District link
Hawaii– All arriving residents and visitors will immediately go into a 14-day quarantines upon entering the state link Lana‘i Axis Deer Hunt Canceled link
Idaho– The purchase of non-resident black bear, fishing and turkey tags is no longer available link If you already had an agreement with an outfitter for a spring black bear hunt before the April 4th suspension, you may still obtain your tags and go on the hunt.
Illinois– all state parks, fish and wildlife areas, recreational areas and historic sites closed, hunting and fishing prohibited on public areas link DNR to Reopen Select Sites for Limited Activities May 1 link added 4/28
Kansas – travel quarantine from the following: International– China, South Korea, Japan, Italy and Iran States- California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York and Washington link Kansas has an “explicit ” call out of quarantine of 14 days before you can hunt link
Kentucky– All Fort Campbell iSportsman activities including hunting, fishing and general outdoor recreation are closed. link People traveling to Kentucky from out-of-state will now be placed under quarantine for 14 days due to an executive order link suspending sale of non-resident turkey-hunting permits- 2020 spring turkey season link
Massachusetts – All travelers arriving in the Commonwealth are instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days, link Joint Base Cape Cod/Camp Edwards controlled turkey hunt canceled link
Maine– all travelers coming to Maine quarantine for 14 days link Maine regular turkey season open two days early, on May 2. The youth season has also changed from May 2 to April 25 and adding a additional day, April 27. Turkey hunters will not be required to register their birds at tagging stations. Changes are temporary for 2020 only. link
Maryland– strict w/penalty stay at home directive. recreational boating is banned. Subsistence hunting and fishing — limited hunting and limited recreational fishing and crabbing for sustenance only. No permits for fishing tournaments, Commercial fishing deemed essential link
Michigan– charter fishing and guide operations are not permitted link travel between two residences is not permitted, the use of a motorboat, or similar watercraft (includes gas and electric motors) is not permitted State harbors and marinas closed link
Missouri– Fort Leonard Wood – Restricted to Authorized personnel only link
Montana– travelers arriving from another state or country to Montana for non-work-related purposes undergo a 14-day self-quarantine. The Directive follows the governor’s prior travel advisory and last week’s Stay at Home Directive link FWP has suspended all spring turkey and spring black bear seasons through at least April 24th for non-resident
Nebraska– suspended the sale of nonresident spring turkey hunting permits immediately. link
New Hamshire– no longer issuing kid’s fishing derby permits or any bass tournament permits. Online sales only for licenses and permits link link
New York– West Point, Outdoor Recreation CLOSED or CANCELLED (until further notice) All reservations cancelled through 30 Apr 2020 link Boat launches, marinas allowed to open
North Carolina– multiple boat access, camping, public land closures see: link Dare County- Resident only travel. link
North Dakota– All travelers arriving to North Dakota from international locations and states with widespread coronavirus outbreaks must quarantine immediately for 14 days link
Ohio– stay-at-home order until May 1. People traveling into Ohio to self-quarantine for 14 days. link non-resident hunting and fishing licenses suspended link
Oklahoma– order requiring travelers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Louisiana and Washington to undergo a 14-day quarantine. link
Oregon– recreational fishing for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River closed link hunting and fishing to non-residents closed link
Pennsylvania- will reopen marinas and allow guided fishing trips again. Private campgrounds will also reopen. State parks and public campgrounds remain closed. link added 4/28
Rhode Island– all out-of-state travelers will be stopped at the border and told to quarantine for 14 days if they intend to stay in the state. Order extended to all states because of the rate of infection in other areas, mentioning New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and New Hampshire by name link Fishing system in place-staggers the days when licensed anglers can fish. Those with last names beginning with A through M can only fish on even numbered calendar days, and those with last names beginning with N through Z can only fish on odd numbered calendar days. link
South Carolina– travelers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and the city of New Orleans will be ordered to isolate or self-quarantine for 14-days or the duration of their trip. The order does not apply to people employed by airlines, performing or assisting with the military, health care or emergency response. link All dates all SCDNR Lottery hunts on WMA properties have been canceled. Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge hunts remain open unless a “Stay Home” order is declared. link Fishing events link
Texas– Joint Base San Antonio – Hunting closed until further notice link 14 Day travel quarantine from the following: flying into Texas from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and the city of New Orleans, driving from the cities of Miami, Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta. Also included in the order are the states of Washington and California. link Texas Attorney General Says Gunnison County’s Temporary Nonresident Ban Is Unconstitutional link
Utah– All recreational travel by non–residents of San Juan County is prohibited link
Vermont– 14 Day travel quarantine from any state link
Virginia– Langly AFB outdoor recreation canceled link Marine Corps Base Quantico- outdoor recreation canceled link
Washington– link All state lands closed til 5/4 link Spring bear and turkey seasons are postponed until at least May 4. link Local hunting for turkey and spring bear will open on May 5. Spring turkey season will end on May 31, as originally scheduled. Spring bear special permit seasons will be extended until June 30. Spring bear hunters who would normally travel outside their local areas to hunt may wait to see how travel guidance evolves, or seek a permit refund link added 4/28
West Virginia– 14 Day travel quarantine from the following: Louisiana, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Italy, and China link
Wisconsin– No Motors in Michigan Boundary Waters link
Wyoming– all travelers coming to Wyoming quarantine for 14 days link nonresident fishing licenses has been suspended until April 30 link
Canada– inaugural New Brunswick spring turkey season canceled link US Border currently closed to all non-essential travel
Not listed, check your state of interest as many have their park buildings and camping and restroom facilities either closed altogether or not taking reservations until later this summer. Also noted that some states are banning overnight camping on public lands or designated primitive sites.
Hunting & Fishing Seasons COVID-19 4/18 UPDATE
Update of currently impacted state turkey hunting and fishing seasons. Non of the states have eased restrictions at this time Corrected: NY opens up Marina’s and boat launches. I will continue to update as states ease and or rescind restrictions entirely.
Alaska– current 14-day mandatory quarantine order in place until April 21st. Hunters should not plan to travel to or arrive in Alaska before this date. link Gov. Mike Dunleavy rescinded the cancellation of all spring bear hunts in Alaska Thursday, saying that spring bear hunts will be open to Alaskan hunters, but not available to those non-residents and anyone from outside the state. link
Arkansas– Buffalo National River closure includes angling, turkey hunting. link added 4/18
California– Hunting, fishing on base is suspended until further notice. link Edwards Air Force Base – restricted to mission-essential personnel only. link Fort Hunter Liggett- All 2020 Fishing and 2019-20 Hunting permits sales have been suspended. link
Arizona– San Carlos Apache Reservation turkey hunts canceled link
Colorado– all playgrounds, campgrounds, dispersed camping and camping facilities (including yurts and cabins) at Colorado’s state parks as well as camping at State Wildlife Areas are closed. Spring turkey hunters now are able to return their license for a refund at any time before the opening day of turkey season. link San Juan County-all public lands closed Fort Carson- hunting is NOT available on Fort Carson or Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, USAF Academy “official business only”. Fishing the 5 lakes closed link Yuma County delaying spring turkey season to 5/2/20, Gunnison county banning any visitors until further notice. link
Delaware– All out-of-state residents traveling into Delaware to immediately self-quarantine for 14 days link
Florida– 30-day stay-at-home order. those who fly or drive into Florida from states with substantial community spread to self-isolate in Florida for 14 days or the duration of their trip, whichever is shorter. Some resources are closed link
Georgia– Fort Benning- Restricted to Authorized personnel only link Fort Gordon- close 1 Apr 2020 – 6 June 2020 link The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is temporarily shutting down all dispersed camping corridors, day-use areas, trailhead facilities and other recreation sites on the Blue Ridge Ranger District link
Hawaii– All arriving residents and visitors will immediately go into a 14-day quarantines upon entering the state link Lana‘i Axis Deer Hunt Canceled link
Idaho– The purchase of non-resident black bear, fishing and turkey tags is no longer available link If you already had an agreement with an outfitter for a spring black bear hunt before the April 4th suspension, you may still obtain your tags and go on the hunt.
Illinois– all state parks, fish and wildlife areas, recreational areas and historic sites closed, hunting and fishing prohibited on public areas link
Kansas – travel quarantine from the following: International– China, South Korea, Japan, Italy and Iran States- California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York and Washington link Kansas has an “explicit ” call out of quarantine of 14 days before you can hunt link
Kentucky– All Fort Campbell iSportsman activities including hunting, fishing and general outdoor recreation are closed. link People traveling to Kentucky from out-of-state will now be placed under quarantine for 14 days due to an executive order link suspending sale of non-resident turkey-hunting permits- 2020 spring turkey season link
Massachusetts – MassWildlife canceled all 2020 Youth Turkey Hunt Seminars. Only those who have completed Basic Hunter Education and the Youth Turkey Hunting Seminar allowed to participate in the Youth Turkey Hunt on April 25. link All travelers arriving in the Commonwealth are instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days, link Joint Base Cape Cod/Camp Edwards controlled turkey hunt canceled link
Maine– all travelers coming to Maine quarantine for 14 days link Maine regular turkey season open two days early, on May 2. The youth season has also changed from May 2 to April 25 and adding a additional day, April 27. Turkey hunters will not be required to register their birds at tagging stations. Changes are temporary for 2020 only. link added 4/21
Maryland– strict w/penalty stay at home directive. recreational boating is banned. Subsistence hunting and fishing — limited hunting and limited recreational fishing and crabbing for sustenance only. No permits for fishing tournaments, Commercial fishing deemed essential link
Michigan– charter fishing and guide operations are not permitted link travel between two residences is not permitted, the use of a motorboat, or similar watercraft (includes gas and electric motors) is not permitted State harbors and marinas closed link added 4/18
Missouri– Fort Leonard Wood – Restricted to Authorized personnel only link
Montana– travelers arriving from another state or country to Montana for non-work-related purposes undergo a 14-day self-quarantine. The Directive follows the governor’s prior travel advisory and last week’s Stay at Home Directive link FWP has suspended all spring turkey and spring black bear seasons through at least April 24th for non-resident
Nebraska– suspended the sale of nonresident spring turkey hunting permits immediately. link
New Hamshire– no longer issuing kid’s fishing derby permits or any bass tournament permits. Online sales only for licenses and permits link link
New York– West Point, Outdoor Recreation CLOSED or CANCELLED (until further notice) All reservations cancelled through 30 Apr 2020 link All marinas and boat launches ordered closed link Boat launches, marinas allowed to open added 4/20
North Carolina– multiple boat access, camping, public land closures see: link Dare County- Resident only travel. link
North Dakota– All travelers arriving to North Dakota from international locations and states with widespread coronavirus outbreaks must quarantine immediately for 14 days link
Ohio– stay-at-home order until May 1. People traveling into Ohio to self-quarantine for 14 days. link non-resident hunting and fishing licenses suspended link
Oklahoma– order requiring travelers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Louisiana and Washington to undergo a 14-day quarantine. link
Oregon– recreational fishing for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River closed link hunting and fishing to non-residents closed link
Rhode Island– all out-of-state travelers will be stopped at the border and told to quarantine for 14 days if they intend to stay in the state. Order extended to all states because of the rate of infection in other areas, mentioning New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and New Hampshire by name link Fishing system in place-staggers the days when licensed anglers can fish. Those with last names beginning with A through M can only fish on even numbered calendar days, and those with last names beginning with N through Z can only fish on odd numbered calendar days. link
South Carolina– travelers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and the city of New Orleans will be ordered to isolate or self-quarantine for 14-days or the duration of their trip. The order does not apply to people employed by airlines, performing or assisting with the military, health care or emergency response. link All dates all SCDNR Lottery hunts on WMA properties have been canceled. Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge hunts remain open unless a “Stay Home” order is declared. link Fishing events link
Texas– Joint Base San Antonio – Hunting closed until further notice link 14 Day travel quarantine from the following: flying into Texas from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and the city of New Orleans, driving from the cities of Miami, Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta. Also included in the order are the states of Washington and California. link Texas Attorney General Says Gunnison County’s Temporary Nonresident Ban Is Unconstitutional link
Utah– All recreational travel by non–residents of San Juan County is prohibited link
Virginia– Langly AFB outdoor recreation canceled link Marine Corps Base Quantico- outdoor recreation canceled link
Washington– Fishing closed, youth turkey hunt canceled. Six game management units that were scheduled to open on April 1 for spring bear hunting closed pending further evaluation. Nearly 90 percent of spring bear permit holders traveling from outside the area. A decision on regular spring turkey may come by 4/6 link All state lands closed til 5/4 link Spring bear and turkey seasons are postponed until at least May 4. link
West Virginia– 14 Day travel quarantine from the following: Louisiana, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Italy, and China link
Wisconsin– No Motors in Michigan Boundary Waters link added 4/18
Wyoming– all travelers coming to Wyoming quarantine for 14 days link nonresident fishing licenses has been suspended until April 30 link added 4/18
Vermont– 14 Day travel quarantine from any state link
Canada– inaugural New Brunswick spring turkey season canceled link US Border currently closed to all non-essential travel
Not listed, check your state of interest as many have their park buildings and camping and restroom facilities either closed altogether or not taking reservations until later this summer. Also noted that some states are banning overnight camping on public lands or designated primitive sites.
Turkey Fanning & Reaping, Not Legal In All States
The NWTF and most if not all hunter safety education curriculums promote hunter safety in their published materials in all states which cautions specifically against the practice of stalking (fanning/reaping.) It can be claimed in all states but I have not confirmed that. As hunting regulations are governed by each state, the list is based on the premise of what is officially published.
It is popular among some hunters and prominently shown on some TV hunting shows. For calling it out, one can expect the usual pushback, attacks and trash talk. Nonsense, as a valid criticism of a practice laden with foreseeable risk, I’ll not apologize...
I get plenty of flack from those that subscribe to “any means possible.” A few decoy companies catering to the practice will not be sending christmas cards any time soon. I get that some see it as exciting and possibly the only thing that might work for gobblers that won’t leave a field, won’t budge. Outwitting a gobbler on its own terms might be fodder to be accused of elitism by these folks.
From personal experience, outwitting a stubborn gobbler by having the right set up, convincing the gobbler to forgo his natural instincts, and making calls that the bird wants to hear is a satisfaction you long remember.
Hate to break the news, that in the act of fair chase, the gobbler does win out sometimes. It is actually ok when it happens. We all have our nemesis, project birds that cause many hours of scheming and frustration. The reward of reaping or fanning a gobbler to a successful conclusion fails to outweigh the chosen and foreseeable risk.
Many of us find it an unacceptable risk with the exception of wide open fields/spaces where rifles are not allowed. As trespassing is far too common, the private land argument claiming it to be be safe holds no weight. The chaotic gun handling during a reaping, fanning stalk shown in videos is enough to make any hunter safety instructor cringe. It should make us all cringe.
Each year stories appear across the USA of a turkey hunter being shot. Sometimes a fatality, others a painful removal of dozens of leaded or tungsten shot, surgery, scarring, loss of sight or disfigurement. Details in nearly all reporting is sketchy, lacking in details as reporters are not intimate with our sport. Far too often it is called an accident which is a misuse of the term.
I am happy to report that fanning and reaping fatalities are not growing in epidemic numbers… At least by what can be researched online. There have been a few, each tragic and of course 100% avoidable. It is entirely preventable with the golden rules we are to abide by each time we head to the turkey woods. Zero incidents is the acceptable number as it is 100% preventable.
My opinion has not lessened or moderated on the idea of stalking or stalking with a manufactured or taxidermy decoy/fan of a gobbler carried in front, on the barrel, or as a hat decoy. Stalking of any kind plagues our sport and has for many years. The method is identified as one of the leading causes of turkey hunting incidents and fatalities.
List of States, Provinces
In a review on the various DNR’s, DEC’s, DWR’s etc, the following States enacted a ban on the practice of stalking, fanning, reaping, and specifically stated in their turkey hunting regulations:
Michigan New Jersey Pennsylvania South Carolina (WMA’s only) Rhode Island
The following States, and one Canadian Province issue a statement of caution specifically in their hunting regs and or species specific guides against the practice of stalking as a matter of safety:
Alabama Arkansas California Connecticut Idaho
Kentucky (specifically fanning/reaping) Maine Maryland Missouri
New York New Hampshire North Carolina Oklahoma Oregon
Ontario, Canada Vermont Washington Wisconsin
There may be more that publish separately as safe hunting tips, and hunting education courses. For my research I used the published hunting regs for each state or province. I will edit the list as others become known.
I would not expect states with predominantly wide open spaces to adopt such restrictions. Should there be an uptick in reckless events, fatalities, I would expect more states to take a more conservative position on this.
-MJ
© 2020 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
New York Sportsmen & Gun Owners- Give a Damn about Constitutional Rights?
The expected answer would be yes, hell yes, of course, without question…
A preemptive disclaimer- There is no sugar coating it, no regard for moderate compromise or apologists in this commentary. For those offended, not sorry. We cannot be sidetracked about the likability of the truth or the notion of being politically correct.
An automatic ‘Yes’ response serves no one when it comes down to ideology, core principles put to action. As a whole, gun owners, hunters, archers, trappers competition shooters and sportsmen in New York State fail miserably. Despite a large demographic and cross section of the population in the Empire State, we effectively neuter ourselves and there is no valid reason to justify that being the case
To be fair, there are those among us that vote, participate in the political process, petition and spread the word, you know who you are and it is not intended to insult your sensibilities. Sadly too many sit on their hands when push comes to shove.
Despite the fly by night passage of the ‘Safe Act,’ an egregious assault on second amendment rights and further restriction on law abiding citizens, Our Governor was reelected with little opposition by our ranks.
We tolerate increasing restrictions by the state, counties and towns in firearm laws and those pertaining to hunting, fishing and trapping and we are being dictated to by those that have little to no understanding or working knowledge and generally allow us to pay our way while putting a virtual thumb on every aspect of our activities and inalienable rights. It is also to our further dismay that those that are bent on removing the first and second amendments and to end all hunting and fishing get ample access to our political system and yet we are far too apathetic. As a group we allow this as we decry downstate politics. Sorry, but it’s total bullshit. We failed to see it through.
All eyes are on Virginia for a possible showdown between a tyrannical governor/administration and second amendment rights. Calls for violent confrontation are more frequent and alarming. 85 of Virginia’s 95 counties have declared themselves as Second Amendment sanctuaries, modeled after immigration sanctuaries which are the unintended outcome of defying federal law. When by the stroke of a pen you declare firearm owners felons by merely owning a legally purchased firearm, it will end badly if it is not struck down. It can be argued that treason is being committed against the citizens of Virginia and entirely unconstitutional on its face.
The framers intended that the second amendment be written purposely to defend against a tyrannical government and acts of treason upon us. It is that plain and simple. One can reasonably argue that Virginia is on a collision course here. New York, California and a few others are predicted to follow suit.
Why do we care in New York? You can be sure that what happens in Virginia if successful in taking away these rights, New York in all its levels of government will follow suite and waste no time in doing so. As such, only one county in NY has followed the examples in Virginia in declaring themselves a Second Amendment Sanctuary. One has to ask why only one? Are we asleep at the wheel?
Getting back to the assertion that we do not act in mass as a Tour de Force…
For decades as a group we decry that downstate dictates all things within the state politics and laws that are passed. In the case of issues of interest to gun owners and sportsmen there is simply no truth to it. In the past election had just firearm owners voted in mass, Cuomo would have been defeated by an 700K-1.1M margin depending on what numbers you believe. There is no plausible excuse, especially if all gun owners, hunters, fisherman, trappers, archers voted consistently. Had we or in the future vote as a group, in mass, infringements on our rights including first and second amendments, our beloved pursuits would see a return as unpinged and free from the constant assault and harassment that we continue to endure. There is much to be upended, reversed, null/voided and restored.
On social media we present ourselves as all badass, full of bravado… cold dead hands before ever surrendering… Sounds good, seen the movie… How many will cut and run at the first shots fired, as the first bodies hit the ground? Surely not the best outcome we might all agree. Clamoring for a civil war means many atrocities, countless dead, and families forever torn apart and irreparably changed. No reasoned person wants this as we view life as priceless. If we believe in living as free persons of this country, neglecting to vote is irresponsible.
If this social media warrior energy, bravado were redirected to the voting booth, the political process, we might affect change that is needed and not fast enough I might add. It may end up with the Supreme Court squashing this before critical mass. Without regard to that outcome, we can act together collectively and suspend the infighting and bickering to save what is most important and dear to us.
None of us alive today were born into servitude or as serfs to kings whom we broke away from in our founding. If you do give a damn about your rights and freedoms and that of your loved ones, your neighbors, your brethren, the passive response, sitting out elections is not a responsible choice, and you must exercise your rights as a citizen.
We cannot afford to continue letting others do our bidding…
-MJ
© 2019 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
The Ghost Gobbler Of Lone Spur Hollow
© 2019 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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