This makes me furious. For the umpteenth time, the public associates these utter and absolute assholes with hunters. We need to do everything we can to eradicate these assclowns from our midst, and we all need to lobby for harsher punishments. A baby bighorn?? Seriously? I’m so mad I can barely type. Friggin scum. ~Desert Rat

Read the full article here: Information Sought

APACHE JUNCTION, AZ – State authorities are offering a $5,000 reward for help in finding whoever is responsible for the illegal killing of a baby bighorn sheep near the Phoenix suburb of Apache Junction.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department got a call on Aug. 24 from a citizen that a bighorn sheep lamb had been hit by a car along Highway 88, also known as the Apache Trail.

Game and Fish investigators found the animal hadn’t been hit by a car, but was illegally shot.

Read the full artiicle at the link above.

Surrenders for now. They are already working on alternate methods.. ~DesertRat

Read the full article here: EPA Surrenders to NRA on Gun Control Issue

In a swift and unexpected decision, the Environmental Protection Agency today rejected a petition from environmental groups to ban the use of lead in bullets and shotgun shells, claiming it doesn’t have jurisdiction to weigh on the controversial Second Amendment issue. The decision came just hours after the Drudge Report posted stories from Washington Whispers and the Weekly Standard about how gun groups were fighting the lead bullet ban.

The EPA had planned to solicit public responses to the petition for two months, but this afternoon issued a statement rejecting a 100-page request from the Center for Biological Diversity, the American Bird Conservancy, and three other groups for a ban on lead bullets, shot, and fishing sinkers. The agency is still considering what to do about sinkers.

Read the full story at the link above.

4×4 Recovery Device Firm launches brand new Corporate Image

Pillowtrack Ltd, the popular 4×4 Recovery device company has been re-branded with a fresh new
look under their new name LiftTrax (www.LiftTrax.com
)
LiftTrax is the ultimate gadget for anyone with a Truck, 4×4 or AWD vehicle. A drive-on device for
when your vehicle gets stuck in sand, mud or other difficult terrain, this ingenious device rolls out of
a small carrying bag and inflates to become mobile traction. Developed by 4×4 Enthusiasts Dan Hermann and Eyal Benjamin who are both engineers by trade, LiftTrax can take the weight of a 4 tonne (8800lb)! vehicle and roll up into a small carry bag.

A fraction of the size and weight of metal or plastic boards used by off road vehicle owners to get
unstuck, LiftTrax are a compact insurance policy against getting held back by Mother Nature. In addition, while other off road gadgets only work in specific scenarios such as mud, sand or rocks, LiftTrax are multi-purpose as, with their built in flexibility, they mould themselves to the shape or texture of the different terrain or obstacle.

Another distinct advantage of LiftTrax is that they don’t just provide stuck vehicles with traction, they simultaneously lift the vehicle as well. Boasting twice the bursting pressure of the commonly known exhaust jack , LiftTrax raise the beached vehicle up and allow it to drive away. Inventor Dan Hermann says “It’s an all-in-one device that is compact enough to keep in your vehicle at all times but big and tough enough to get you out of some really sticky situations.” “People are finding LiftTrax useful everywhere. From off-roaders in the Australian outback to Hunters and Fisherman in the United States; it’s a must-have for all outdoor enthusiasts”

LiftTrax are usually sold in pairs and are available from reputable outdoor equipment stores or
online at www.LiftTrax.com.

Well, this is going to sting for a lot of fans of The Nuge. Ted Nugent has been a dynamic and outspoken supporter of hunting and 2nd Amendment rights practically forever. From the article it appears to be a relatively minor mistake, and he did cooperate with authorities. That being said – we preach it all the time – the onus is on the hunter to know the laws. ~Desert Rat

You can read the full story over at Moose DroppingsTed Nugent Pleads No Contest To Multiple California Game Violations

A snippet:

Yuba City attorney Jack Kopp, representing Theodore Anthony Nugent, entered the plea to Department of Fish and Game charges of baiting deer and not having a deer tag “countersigned” at the closest possible location, said Deputy District Attorney John Vacek.

Nugent, who did not appear in court, also illegally shot an immature buck on the show but was not charged, according to Fish and Game.

Baiting deer is legal in some states but not in California, said department spokesman Patrick Foy. Baiting supplies are sold at some outdoor stores, he said. The deer was killed in El Dorado County toward the end of deer hunting season last fall but brought to Yuba County. Two co-defendants, Mitchell Neil Moore and Ross Albert Patterson, live in Yuba County, said Vacek.

The story of the hunt in Ted’s words can be read here: God Loves Me Blacktail. I think this story was posted well before the violations came to light, so there is no mention of them.

Up to $2,500 reward offered in mule deer poaching near Tacna

YUMA, Ariz. – The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest of the individual or individuals responsible for the illegal killing of an adult 4×4 mule deer buck east of Tacna in Game Management Unit 41 in southwestern Arizona.

Game and Fish officers believe the incident occurred between Aug. 1-9 near a popular hunting area known as Texas Hill. The deer hunting season in that area was closed at the time.

“The buck was shot, possibly through the neck, with an unknown caliber firearm and just left to waste in the desert,” said Richard Myers, law enforcement specialist for the Game and Fish Yuma region. “The shooter may have been out on a joyride at night and was startled by another vehicle, since only one shot was taken and no meat was removed from the carcass.”

Myers added that poachers aren’t hunters, and the public shouldn’t confuse the two.

“Poachers who commit these illegal acts not only steal from the resource, they steal from the residents of Arizona,” he said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Operation Game Thief hotline toll-free at (800) 352-0700. Caller identities may remain confidential upon request. You can also report online at www.azgfd.gov/thief.

Damn, I hate poachers. Citizens and agencies alike can help fight poaching. Visit the Poacher Chronicles to learn more. ~DesertRat

Dove and Sandhill Crane regulations now available

PHOENIX – It’s a blast from the past – for the first time in two decades, all-day dove hunting is returning to Arizona starting Sept. 1 for the early season, which ends Sept. 15.

You can read all about it in the “Arizona Dove and Band-tailed Pigeon Regulations 2010-11” that have been distributed to license dealers statewide and are also available online at www.azgfd.gov.

The Sandhill Crane Regulations have also been posted and distributed. This year there is a new juniors-only crane hunt near Gila Bend in addition to the one in Units 30A, 30B, 31 and 32. The crane hunts are by drawing only. The application period started Aug. 2 and the deadline for the department to receive applications is Aug. 31 (postmarks don’t count).

Arizona Game and Fish Department biologists said the early season half-day dove hunting restrictions were eliminated by the Game and Fish Commission this past June due to a number of changes the state has experienced.

“The half-day dove hunting restrictions were implemented in 1989 in response to declining numbers of both mourning doves and white-winged doves,” said Mike Rabe, small game program supervisor.

Since that time, explained Rabe, dove hunting participation has declined and places to hunt doves near urban centers have also declined.

“As a result, Arizona dove hunters must travel farther to hunt doves and few hunters participate,” Rabe said.

In addition, recent data indicates current harvest rates are low and dove are abundant.

Game and Fish conducted a hunter survey in March and a majority of hunters said they favor lifting the half-day hunt restrictions.

Rabe pointed out that removing the half-day restrictions also eliminates the need for two hunting zones for the early dove season. “This sure makes it much more simple for our hunters, and us too.”

Don’t forget that once again this year, there is a juniors-only dove hunt at the Robbins Butte Wildlife Area near Buckeye on Sept. 4-5. Following the morning hunt each day, the Chandler Rod and Gun Club will be providing its famous pancake breakfast on site for the young hunters and their mentors.

Shooting stations will be assigned on a first-come, first-served process unless there are more people desiring to participate than available shooting stations, then a drawing will be held at 4:45 a.m. But those who routinely work the hunt say a drawing has never been necessary yet. It’s a great time, bring your youngsters.

Also keep in mind that the late dove season is Nov. 19 through Jan. 2. “This late season is mourning doves only – all the white-winged doves will have migrated south. But it’s a much more leisurely hunt – the best times to hunt are in the late afternoon,” Rabe said.

I’m a volunteer with the Arizona Chapter of Hunt of a Lifetime. It looks like we have a bunch of potential tag donations this year so we are looking for kids with life-threatening illnesses that want to go on a hunt. Our immediate need is for an archery-proficient child. We have a donor willing to donate an 11M Arizona antelope tag (archery) . The season runs August 21 – Sept 2. We have guides lined up, for this hunt- when we can, all hunt expenses are paid. on HOAL sponsored hunts. For more info on this hunt contact me ASAP. If you have questions about getting a sick child on a hunt, or supporting HOAL, please let me know.

Here is an opportunity to win an awesome Christensen Arms rifle worth over $3500

This is a Christensen Arms Hunter Custom in .270 Winchester with a Leupold Century Scope. Features include: Mossy Oak Treestand Camo stock, trigger worked to 3 lbs, muzzle brake, bedded barrel, bolt lightened and jeweled. Comes with a custom Christensen hard case and rifle is autographed by Jon Mogle, star of the Christensen Arms TV Show.

Only 3500 tickets are being sold nationwide. Drawing to be held on August 7th. Proceeds going to Hunt of a Lifetime.

Tickets are one for $20, 3 for $50, or 7 for 100.

You can mail check or money order made to Hunt Of A Lifetime Foundation to the address below.
Please make sure to have a return address, contact phone number and email and we will mail your tickets out to you.

Please e-mail questions to azhoal@gmail.com

mail to:

Matt Minshall
P.O. Box 2214
Litchfield Park, AZ. 85340

May be able to deliver tickets in Kingman, Holbrook or Show Low – contact for info.

The beautiful young lady pictured below needs a liver. I am hoping that all of you can do something to help.

Sadie was diagnosed with Auto-Immune Hepatitis in February 2008. She is now in need of a new liver.

The following was posted by my friend Amanda over on the CouesWhitetail.com Message Board.

You all have heard me talk about the Outdoor Experience 4 All before. This is a great group that takes kids with disabilities or illnesses out hunting/fishing/camping. One of the kids they have helped is Sadie Anderson. I have met Sadie several times and she is an amazing young lady. She is also a very good hunter. She has taken many big game animals in the last few years. Sadie has requested to go on a hunt before she starts the liver transplant process and Eddy Corona just told me that they have a bull buffalo hunt lined up for her. Mary Keebler has donated her buffalo tag to OE4A and so now we are working on getting Sadie up there for a hunt.

Anyway, she needs a liver transplant and Derek Taylor is leading an effort to raise money for that.

You can view/download the flier at the link above. They are raffling off the following hunts to raise money for Sadie:

1) AZ Archery Deer Hunt – Fully outfitted, 4-day, value $2800 Ticket $35

2) AZ Bear Hunt – Fully outfitted, 4-day, value $2800 Ticket $35

3) Nebraska Deer Hunt – During the rut, 5-day archery or rifle, fully outfitted, value $3500 Ticket $50

OR – One of each for $100 !

Information - Contact

Derek Taylor
3856 E . Meadowview Dr.
Gilbert, Az. 85296
480- 223-2775
Couescrzy@AOL.com

Make checks payable to: Sadie Anderson

Maybe you can’t afford a ticket, or aren’t interested in a hunt – throw 5 or 10 bucks in an envelope and send it along. Thanks ~Desert Rat

Jim Solomon contacted me from Xplor The Outdoors and asked if I would like to pitch in and help with his awesome efforts over at The Poacher Chronicles. I told him that I would be delighted to help! Jim and I are united in our hatred against poachers and our belief that “slob hunters” are not hunters at all. Stay tuned for more info!

Honestly, i didn’t have time to pull up the Arizona law on using dogs to track wounded game. What do you think? I think anything that helps us recover wounded game is a good thing. Go visit my friend over at Moose Droppings to see what he thinks about the issue:

Full post here: Tracking dogs legal?

A snippet:

While I know the use of hounds to hunt deer can be a divisive topic with hunters often pitting traditions and local culture against more popular hunting methods. That is certainly not a topic I want to dive into at this point but I see no reason a person would be upset or disturbed by the use of a tracking dog on a lead to track down a shot deer.

Snow conditions may hinder some spring turkey hunts

Mentored youth turkey camps will still go on

With more than a decade of prolonged drought conditions throughout Arizona, any moisture is a welcome blessing across our state’s landscapes, from low-lying deserts to high-elevation forests. However, for those sportsmen and women who live for the trials and tribulations of out-foxing a cagey, wild gobbler in Arizona’s pine forests, this past winter’s snowfall has produced some inconveniences that hunters need to be aware of before they embark on their upcoming spring adventure.

Arizona Game and Fish Department officials in the Pinetop and Flagstaff regions advise that the snow pack is still significant in areas above 7,300-feet elevation in the White Mountains, North Kaibab Plateau, San Francisco Peaks and Mogollon Rim country, resulting in many roads being impassable or closed due to snow or muddy conditions.

Most of the closures are on roads accessing higher elevation country in Game Management Units 1, 3C, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7, 8, 12A and 27; the southern parts of Units 4A, 4B and 5A; and the east portion of Unit 9.

Higher-than-average winter snow and rainfall caused Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino and Kaibab National Forests’ personnel to close numerous roads across the forests to prevent road damage and off-road damage to meadows and sensitive habitats. Many of these roads access traditional turkey-hunting areas. While department personnel are working with Forest Service staff on when and which roads are opened, the forests will make the final decision on these matters.

Despite conditions in some areas, sportsmen and women will find there is still plenty of country in which to find birds, especially if one is willing to walk into an area currently closed to vehicle traffic.

Department officials also suggest that because the spring turkey hunts have a lengthy season, closing on May 20 this year, it may be a good option to consider venturing afield later in the season rather than on the opening weekend. With warmer weather, wind and fewer fronts coming through, the higher country will dry up quickly.

Contacts for the latest updates on road closures and conditions in a particular area are:

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests at (928) 333-4301 or www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/contact/
Coconino National Forest at (928) 527-3600 or www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/conditions/index.shtml#districts
Kaibab National Forest at (928) 635-8200 or www.fs.fed.us/r3/kai/contact/
Officials have some notes of caution for turkey hunters this spring. Do not attempt going around barricades or locked gates. Not only have many people gotten themselves stuck by doing so, they can also be cited for such action. Plan for nighttime and early morning temperatures to be below freezing, and dress appropriately.

Finally, because of the potential for getting stuck and poor weather conditions, leave a detailed itinerary with a family member or friend, including specific hunting and camping sites and an arrival time back home.

The department in cooperation with the National Shooting Sports Foundation Heritage Partnership and the National Wild Turkey Federation are hosting three mentored youth turkey hunting camps. Juniors-only spring turkey tags are available for purchase over-the-counter at any license dealer or department office. For a listing of camps and to register, visit www.azgfd.gov/hunting on the right side under “Mentored Hunting & Juniors-only Events.”

Arizona Game and Fish contacts:

Bruce Sitko, (928) 367-4281, Public Information Officer, Pinetop Regional Office
Shelly Shepherd, (928) 214-1241, Public Information Officer, Flagstaff Regional Office