On The Trail With Mark Kayser
Do you have a comment, question or topic you want Mark to address in his blog? E-mail it to insidetrack@namginc.com. Your comment might be highlighted as the "Featured Comment," and Mark will try to address it in a future posting.
Mark's Blogs:
 |
| Nice shot, but it doesn’t count unless you’re wearing a farm implement hat. |
PUT A SMALL GAME HUNT IN YOUR DAYTIME SCHEDULE
Monday, June 8
Have you started thinking about fall hunts yet? I have and like most, they revolve around big game. Statistics prove it so don't deny it. We love big game hunting.
That’s great, but it’s also a shame. According to the 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, there was a 12 percent decrease in the number of small game hunters from 2001 to 2006.
Why is that a shame? That’s where most young hunters cut their teeth. It’s where they learn to handle a gun. It’s where they acquire their stalking skills while watching the twitching nose of a bunny. It’s also where they acquire their taste for wild game via a fried squirrel entrée.
I was reminded of one of my first small game hunts from a DVD present my mother gave me last month. She recently went through my deceased grandfather’s old film library and converted the film to disk. My kids about peed their pants at how hokey their dad looked while bragging about his first pheasant. My red hunting attire, thanks to my father’s implement dealer giveaways, was also the brunt of a joke or two or three.
The short clip was a great trip down memory lane, but it reminded me again about how important it is to get our kids out. Whether it’s for squirrel, cottontail, pheasant, quail or dove, make a date for a small game hunt.
Now if I can only remember where I stored that International Harvester attire I might make a killing on E-bay.
Mark Kayser
WHEN TO SAY WHAT THE HECK
JUNE 5, 2009
My neighbor just called. His daughter is back from the East Coast where she just graduated from honors. In a week she's off to the West Coast for a new job. He wanted to know if the kids and I wanted to go up on the mountain and spend the day.
 |
Sorry, I'm not going to stimulate the economy today.
|
I really should sit here at my computer and type away but.
I said, "What the heck." At this moment my kids are cramming raingear and granola bars into daypacks while I type like a madman to get out the door.
They're only young once and my neighbor's daughter wanted a real Rocky Mountain experience before beginning her career miles away from her Wyoming home.
I hope you all have a great weekend. We're starting ours early. What the heck!
Mark Kayser
 |
| Really. You think the buck is a Booner? Show me that septic tank! |
BARTER FOR HUNTING ACCESS
Wednesday, June 3
Depression can be a serious problem for hunters these days. Sure it's depressing not to get drawn for a coveted big game license or hear more rumors about impending gun legislation from our current administration, but what about the depression caused by landowners saying "no" to repeated requests for permission to hunt on private land? That can make you downright melancholy (I'm using cute words so I don't drive anyone over the edge).
Acquiring permission to hunt on private land is critical for many of you living east of the Rocky Mountains where the amount of public land is less than a spike buck's dominance in a well managed herd. I recently saw a statistic where Nebraska is 97 percent privately owned and many easterly states are 80 percent or more privately deeded.
Since the days of knocking on doors and forging a relationship for hunting purposes are disappearing like the dodo, you need to be creative in how you open the gate to new private property.
First, make sure to use any social networks to get on land. Church, volunteer projects and community foundations all offer ways to meet landowners. Next, offer sweat equity for hunting enjoyment and barter labor for hunting rights. If you've been hunting the property, make notes of labor projects you could complete to aid the landowner and maintain hunting permission.
An area always in need of repair is fences. Old buildings need repair or paint, weeds can be sprayed, outbuilding roofs always need shingles and firewood has to be cut before winter. Toss the idea out to the landowner and donate a weekend or two from your summer to help their cause and yours.
Another easy way to thank a landowner is to swap professional services for hunting permission. If you are a financial adviser, offer to help with investments. If you are a mechanic, offer to fix a tractor. If you own a tire shop, give the landowner a cut on repairs. Be creative. I'll do almost anything to acquire hunting permission although I've drawn the line on septic system repair.
Good luck!
Mark Kayser
 |
| I win. What do you mean I don't get a medal? |
STILL LOOKING FOR SHEDS
Monday, June 1
I talked to a buddy the other day back in the Midwest and he said the farmers around there were beginning to cut alfalfa for hay. Grass was knee high and he was finished looking for antlers. It's a different story in the West. In fact, one of the elk refuges near my home just opened allowing visitors to hike on the property and look for shed antlers. When the gate swung open it was a ready-set-go race to get to the prime spots.
On private property you can look for shed antlers anywhere at anytime. It's not that way in the West where big game animals migrate to wintering grounds to lessen the stress of winter. To avoid even more stress wildlife managers shut down access to many of these public areas during taxing winter months.
In fact, antler collecting dates have been established in many zones where unregulated human activity could lead to even more winter mortality.
Utah even has an online shed antler course on the Division of Wildlife web page. If you want to search for shed antlers prior to April 15 you need to take the course and get a free permit.
This wouldn't be necessary if a few bad apples hadn't spooked wintering game over the years. Some of the bad apples were ignorant while others were greedy. Either way, more regulations have been put on everyone because of the actions of a few. Sounds familiar doesn't it?
Mark Kayser
SUMMER DOLDRUMS
Friday, May 29
You're right. Summer doesn't start until June 21, but most folks I know accept summer's arrival in June as soon as school gets out. My kids are out next Monday. For the majority of you hunting has slowed to a crawl and that's OK, but don't get caught up in the summer doldrums.
.jpg "kaymat1") |
| Eat carbon, Mr. GlenDel. |
Now is the time to get everything ready for the coming season, some of which will kick off in August. That's only two months away. Get your bow and rifle sighted in now. Don't wait. If you run into problems with erratic arrow flight or an inconsistent bullet pattern, you have ample time to correct the issue.
It never fails. I tend to wait until midsummer to get rolling on my rifles and like clockwork a rifle or muzzleloader I'm readying has fits over the load I try to push down its throat or some other oversight due to my misunderstanding.
One especially frustrating sighting in session I recall had me cussing a rifle that wouldn't zero. I literally ran out of vertical adjustment on a scope and was resorting to shims when the problem surfaced like a dead carp on a pond.
I had put the 1-piece scope rail mount on backwards. I took the scope off, swapped ends and presto, the rifle was back on track. I could go on and on, but there's really no reason to beat myself up in public. You get the point.
I can be incompetent and you should look ahead.
Enjoy the summer, but set aside enough time to be ready for fall and slosh on the sunscreen.
Mark Kayser
PRO SHOP STOP FOR PRO ADVICE
Wednesday, May 27
How many of you have a reputable pro shop nearby? I'll be the first to admit (my wife will second it) I'm not the handiest do-it-yourself guy. We're still fighting an upstairs toilet that refuses to flush with swirling passion. I thank God for my access to pro shops for archery advice and other specialized service technicians.
My good friend Al Kraus at Black Hills Archery in Rapid City, S.D. (605-394-9663), recently kicked off my fall preparation for bow season. He and his staff set up and fine tuned my new Mathews Reezon, and Monster bow. It's not that I couldn't do the job; it's just that I depend on my equipment to work flawlessly and nonstop in the fall. I want things done right and permanently. That's what I get from the folks at Black Hills Archery.
More importantly you get years of experience and field testing advice from qualified shops. They've heard it all or experienced it themselves. They know what works and what to avoid. Plus, because they are required by many companies, they attend workshops and seminars on the latest and greatest shortcuts to setting up a bow.
If you're handy with a bow press and Allen wrenches; I'm jealous. If you're background is more like mine, embrace a nearby pro shop and along with great service, you'll make some great friends. Now if anyone has advice on how to get a cantankerous toilet back on the flushing fast track, pass along your advice.
Mark Kayser
 |
| Dang! I flinched again. I guess it's time to call Dr. Phil. |
MANAGED RECOIL AMMO
Monday, May 25
A buddy of mine called me the other day with a common problem. It had to do with his girlfriend. Before he went any further I stopped him and told him I'm not Dr. Phil. Fortunately the problem had to do with firearms. His girlfriend is flinching at the shooting range from the recoil of her new .30-06. When I say it is common, I mean it is common with larger caliber firearms, especially those in the .30 caliber range.
As I said in an earlier blog I am a proponent of "carry enough gun." That said, if you can't handle the recoil and it affects your shot placement; do something about it.
Here's one answer. Look into the "managed recoil" ammunition. That's actually the name of Remington's version and Federal offers the Power-Shok Low Recoil. Both claim a reduction of 50 percent in recoil yet accuracy out to 200 yards. By using a combination of lighter bullets and less powder, less recoil is achieved. I'm sure other companies have options as well.
If you want to check to see if you are flinching have someone load your rifle at the range. Don't peek. Every few shots skip putting a cartridge in the chamber and watch the reaction. You'll see flinching firsthand if it is present.
If you are flinching at the range, stop shooting right away and come back another day. Another remedy is to start at the bottom and shoot with an air rifle and work your way up to a .22LR. Work on accuracy and forget about the "bang."
Flinching is a real problem, but don't call Dr. Phil. Work out the kinks
yourself.
Mark Kayser
DO YOU SMELL WHAT I SMELL?
Friday, May 22
We've got skunks. Yes, the smelly kind. Unlike the uninvited, unwanted relatives that show up unexpectedly over Memorial Day Weekend, we invited the skunks. Before you recommend me to a psychological institution, you have to understand the heart strings a 10-year-old girl can pull.
While cleaning out a shed I had a close and smelly encounter with an adult skunk. Since I wasn't about to let the skunk homestead on my property, I ended the problem with a 20 gauge. Game over. While digging the skunk out from under a pile of wood I discovered a nest with newborn skunks. My daughter was helping and presto, we're the adopted family for two infant skunks.
I have to admit. They're cute and surprisingly easy to take care of. We've been ultracareful to limit our interaction with them due to disease and thanks to the president's advice, we've been washing our hands more than a germophobic surgeon.
The plan is to get the duo up to speed and release them in a remote, "undisclosed location." At the rate they're growing it shouldn't be long.
For now the biggest issue is caring for them when we travel. They recently spent a weekend at a plush motel while I was on the road and they're scheduled to attend a wedding in the near future. Who knew skunks liked to travel and party? I think there's a "you might be a redneck if." joke in here somewhere.
The second issue is naming them. So far here are the choices: Chip and Dale, Cheech and Chong, Mickey and Minnie, Hansel and Gretel, Tuffy and Fluffy, PePe and LePu, Hall and Oats, Lenny and Squiggy, and Stinky and Winky.
Have a great weekend and if you pass a car with two skunks peering from the back window in your travels, you might not be hallucinating.
Mark Kayser
 |
| Put your hands up and back away from the potato salad. |
LOADED FIREARMS IN NATIONAL PARKS
Wednesday, May 20
All I have to say is thank God for greedy credit card companies. A bill passed both houses this week adding more regulations to the credit card industry. The credit card portion of the bill is likely to hurt my family since we pay our credit cards off monthly and the industry will find some way to penalize us for being responsible... but that's another story.
Tacked onto this bill was an amendment to again allow visitors to national parks and wildlife refuges to carry loaded firearms as long as federal, state and local laws are followed. This same provision was in play thanks to the Bush presidency.
Nevertheless, the rule was reversed in March by a U.S. District Court judge who decided that an environmental impact study needed to be completed to determine the true impact of loaded firearms in national parks.
Here's my study. A bad guy tries to rob me and my family next time I'm picnicking in Yellowstone. The bad guy is rude, but suddenly finds himself looking down the barrel of my Glock as my Crimson Trace laser dot "marks the spot."
The bad guy runs away. We finish our picnic... study over.
This research stuff is easy now please pass the potato salad.
Mark Kayser
 |
| Nice retrieve! I wonder if this one counts against my limit since I ran over it with my Dodge? |
GOOD NEWS FROM PHEASANT COUNTRY
Monday, May 18
If you haven't driven through pheasant country lately, feel lucky. The winter was uneventful and the pheasant population was largely unaffected save for some areas of North Dakota.
I talked with my good friend Steve Halverson this morning. Steve operates Halverson Hunts near Kennebec, S.D. He commutes to the family farm every day including nearly eight miles of gravel.
Because of the substantial pheasant population he says it's an unusual day where he can get above 35 mph on the gravel for fear of crashing into pheasants congregating along the ditch. I visited his place back in March and can vouch for the numbers I saw just prior to the breeding season. I, too was nervous about kicking up some dust for fear of bashing my grill or cracking my already splintered windshield even more.
So what's ahead? It should be great hunting this coming fall barring any unforeseen extreme weather events. Last year South Dakota saw a nine percent jump in the pheasant population. When you review the roadside count data it indicates a figure that's 64 percent ahead of the 10-years average. Last year was also the highest recorded brood survey since 1963. Statistical gibberish aside, there is going to be an absurd amount of pheasants.
If you like pheasant hunting, South Dakota is the answer. Guys like Steve put on a great pheasant hunt at a reasonable cost. I guarantee you the sight of more birds than seems possible when you team up with him.
If you want to do it yourself, look farther west in the state for better access. Pheasant densities may not be off the charts, but you'll likely find less pressure on public lands and the likelihood of knocking on a door and having it opened for access. Start planning now because it looks like a barn burner of a year in pheasant country. Oh yeah, make sure you talk to the gecko about car insurance before you drive the pheasant-lined roads.
Mark Kayser
I LOVE WILDERNESS, BUT …
Friday, May 15
I am a strong supporter of wilderness areas and feel that most designated wilderness areas today preserve a peek into what America once was before the European invasion. What's going on in Congress right now is overboard and quite frankly, railroading legislation without representation.
H.R. 980, the "Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act," would set aside approximately 24 million acres of land in Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington as units of the wilderness preservation system or as newly established areas titled "biological connecting corridors."
 |
What do you mean the road is closed? This wasn't wilderness yesterday.
|
Think about it. 24 million acres is a lot of land. Most national forest holdings are set aside for anywhere from 1 to 3 million acres. Some are more and some are less, but 24 million acres is HUGE! It's going to restrict economic viability, recreational access and maybe even place further limitations on wilderness use depending on the so-called sensitivity of the region.
I've dealt with the wilderness designation in the past trying to get film permits. It's nearly impossible to film a hunt in a wilderness area due to the huge impact myself and a cameraman would have in the area. Never mind the fact that a church group can take a horde of backpackers through the region for a week-long stay.
What really sets off my alarm on H.R. 980 is the fact that not one member of Congress whose district is impacted by this bill is currently a co-sponsor of the legislation. In my home state of Wyoming there have been no inquires from sponsors for input from local officials, municipal commissions or even public land managers. This bill, in one shape or another, has been surfacing for the past two decades. Something stinks.
As I said, I'm for wilderness, but each designation contender needs to be introduced individually for debate. Trying to get millions of acres passed in one big sweep is definitely a shady deal at best. Contact your state representatives if you have an opinion and have a great weekend!
Mark Kayser
 |
Fire up the coals! It's Green Acres again now that Arnold Ziffel is going on the spit.
|
SWINE FLU
Thursday, May 14
Have you caught swine flu yet? Me neither. Talk about blowing the sniffles out of proportion!
I apologize if you or a family member has caught the bug, but take a close look at reality. Every year more than 30,000 individuals die from the standard strain of flu and only a handful have succumbed to swine flu to date. You have a 1 in 6,500 chance of dying in a car crash. You have a 1 in 625 chance of getting run over while walking across the street. You have a 1 in 2,232 chance of slipping and falling in the tub or shower.
Why aren't our elected officials telling us how to avoid these situations? I already know how to wash my hands.
Now back to swine. I've been studying swine lately so the swine flu hubbub has some relevancy for me only for its namesake. Having never lived in feral hog country, I never fully understood the impact these critters were having on the landscape. Today, feral pigs and hybrids of the Russian wild boars are found in at least 23 states with the possibility of sneaky hogs hiding in several more states. The largest populations are in the coastal states surrounding the Gulf of Mexico and California. Texas, Florida and California are definite "must-visit" states if you're provoked to procure pork.
The problem with introduced species such as hogs and other exotics is that they didn't evolve and meld with the existing wildlife, and habitat. In most cases they're destructive and since they are piglet-producing factories, it's hard to rein them in, even with all-out war.
If you're looking for an interesting new way to put some pork chops on the table look up Rod Pinkston at Jager Pro Wildlife control. Rod is serious about hog hunting and helping landowners with hog problems.
His specialty is hunting hogs at night using infrared and thermal technology. It's high-tech hunting for ham at its best and it's an effective control method for a species out of control.
Feral hogs are definitely a scourge on the landscape. Do your part and throw a barbecue.
Mark Kayser
 |
"Honest. It's all I have on me. Will you take an IOU?"
|
WORKING WEEKEND
Tuesday, May 12
I have to work this weekend. I'm sure a few of you are saying, "boo hoo, I have to work every weekend." I actually work a lot of weekends, but fortunately it's hunting for television shows or gathering images for magazine articles. It's still work, but it's not like standing in line at an assembly plant.
This weekend I'll be in Billings, Mont., at the grand opening for the new Cabela's store. I'll be there representing Under Armour and hanging around its display to discuss why hunters need high quality athletic gear designed for hunters to be successful.
If you're in the region, stop by. Cabela's didn't bet its entire grand opening sales revenue on just me. NAH columnist Chuck Adams will be there as well. Other TV personalities like Chad and Marsha Schearer, Lee and Tiffany Lakosky, and Mike, Guy and Ike Eastman, among a handful of other outdoor experts will be on hand throughout the weekend.
There is one major flaw of working at a Cabela's store for a weekend promotion: You don't make any money! I am getting paid for my time, but think about it. I'm in a Cabela's store. Every aisle is beckoning to me with subliminal messages to purchase this gadget or this gizmo to get the biggest buck or bull next season. My son is also going along so you know he's going there with cash in hand.
Nope, I'm afraid I'll be in the red after working all weekend. You can help. Stop by and talk to keep me busy and far away from the cash registers. It might be my only hope.
Mark Kayser
 |
"Tourist season sucks. I thought this guy was here to see Mount Rushmore."
|
TIS THE SEASON
Monday, May 11
What season is it? It's prairie dog season. Some of you, and you know who you are, live for the spring when young of the year prairie dogs begin straying from their dens. Prairie dogs define varmint hunting at its best.
Having lived my adult life in the midst of some of the largest prairie dog concentrations in North America (I'm looking at a town as I type), I know the destructive effects the pesky buggers are capable of when found in numbers. As a wildlife enthusiast, I'm also well aware of their important role in the environment. One of the most important is providing a food source for the endangered black-footed ferret.
Even though I'm not a fanatical varmint hunter like some of my friends, I am in favor of controlling the population through hunting. The old days are gone and we all share the earth's resources, human and animal alike. Few ranchers are friends of prairie dogs because of their competition for grass with cattle. There's also the chance a bovine may trip and break a leg in a prairie dog hole, but that's an uncommon occurrence. Hunting can help.
Prairie dog numbers can be kept in check by hunting and it helps restrict the spread of prairie dog towns. What's the alternative to hunting? It's poison. Even though modern poisoning methods are more targeted, I like the hunting aspect. It doesn't wipe out an entire colony because prairie dogs soon catch on to the "bang." Poisoning is scarily effective. Hunting also brings tourism economic impact to rural areas that rarely see a traditional tourist. Finally, it's a great activity to prepare for the fall hunting seasons. It's real-world shooting practice complete with climatic elements and live targets.
Prairie dog season is here. Give it a try, but don't blame me if you if you catch the bug.
Mark Kayser
 |
I don't smell anything. Hey, where are you going?
|
FOOT FETISH
Thursday, May 7
I really don't have a foot fetish, but looking at Bill Miller's blog and his selection of a boot for his upcoming Dall's sheep hunt got me thinking about feet. Think about it. If you're a hardcore hunter looking to get the most out of a hunt, or even a trophy, it's your feet that are going to get you where you need to be. Sure, there are a few hunts that are doable from an ATV or truck, but over the years I've been more successful by going farther on foot. It's separated me from the crowd and my feet are the reason.
Choosing the right footwear is as important as choosing the right tool for the hunt. If you don't have the right footwear you're likely to get a flat tire and sideline yourself during the chase. I recall guiding a pronghorn hunter one year who decided tennis shoes were the perfect footwear for trekking across the prairie. Unfortunately the canvas sidewalls were not impervious to prickly pear cactus spines and the tenderfoot got tender feet.
In moose camp one year a young video photographer tried to get by in the muck of Alberta with leaky boots. He finally resorted to a daily routine of putting garbage bags on first and then slipping on his boots. You guessed it, they leaked as well.
OK, I'll tell one on myself. I once wore a lightweight pair of stalking shoes on a Rocky Mountain elk hunt. I figured the light footwear would allow me to move quickly and quietly through the woods. It did, but every time I went downhill the lack of grip made my toes curl to stop the downhill slide and my poor tootsies were soon raw.
For an overall boot I'm with Bill - almost. I wear the Cabela's Perfekt Hunter by Meindl and they've been with me on hunts in New Mexico, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Alaska and other places too numerous to remember.
Take care of your feet and they'll take care of you. And don't worry if people think you have a foot fetish.
Mark Kayser
 |
| "Scouting is great dad. If the college thing doesn't work, I can always get a job at IHOP." |
BE PREPARED
Tuesday, May 5
Be prepared. That's the Scout motto and over the weekend my son and I tested that theory on a weekend Boy Scout campout. Evidence of snow was seen in the form of leftover drifts and gray clouds threatened rain, but it held off until the campout ended. Even the bears, moose, mountain lions and raccoons left our campsite alone.
Together with the practice of being prepared, the participating scouts also learned how to work together. There were youth from all walks of life at the event and if one was struggling with an activity, another would pitch in to finish the goal. I saw firsthand how urban kids were exposed to the outdoors and the positive reaction they had to passing the tests of the wilderness.
They set up camp, hiked, worked on survival techniques, cooked and explored.
One boy told me at least three times how it took him only one try to get the morning campfire started. Another boy found a shed whitetail antler and literally carried it with him for the rest of the trip. He wasn't letting that antler out of his sight. Maybe he heard of my addiction to hunting shed antlers.
If you have a scouting organization in your community I invite you to get your kids involved or volunteer. It's truly a great way to keep our youth focused on the outdoors. Now I wonder if that kid would trade the antler for a candy bar?
Mark Kayser
.jpg "Kaysermay1a") |
| The Kaysers spreading the Earth Day message and doing their share to clean up the planet. |
EARTH DAY THE KAYSER WAY
Friday, May 1
You folks aren't snitches are you? I'm going to share a secret with you. Some of you may think less of me and some of you may applaud me, but I'm letting the horse out of the barn, or the cat out of the bag, or the dog out of the kennel. Get my drift?
Did you know it was Earth Day last Wednesday? I didn't until I heard it on the radio while on my way up the mountain. I should re-phrase that. We heard it. You see, our spring weather has been snowy, rainy and windy. When a nice window of weather arrived in the forecast I decided to take the kids out of school so we could all go up the mountain, enjoy the weather and maybe pick up an elk shed or two.
First, I have to clarify that my kids are basically straight 'A' students (proud papa moment here). And I did plan ahead. They both got their homework ahead of time and finished the bulk of it the night before our trip.
After we heard that it was Earth Day I no longer felt guilty about being the instigator of the school-skipping incident. Heck, I couldn't think of a better way to enjoy the earth than romp all over and enjoy a lunch after a long trek up the mountain. We took our two saddle horses and rotated. Two would ride and one would walk. The country was steep, rugged and rocky, but my two kids helped each other out and I assisted as required.
It was a perfect day and I'm sure my kids appreciate the earth a little more because of it. This might just become a Kayser tradition; Earth Day the Kayser way.
Mark Kayser
 |
| I cut the dickens out of my thumb...could you please hand it back to me? |
THE WORTH OF A GOOD KNIFE
Wednesday, April 29
What's your knife worth to you? For me, it depends on how sharp it is and lately I've been keeping my knives razor sharp. For years I struggled with keeping knives sharp mainly because I used them more like a screwdriver than a knife. Today, I've replaced my old knives with quality products and updated my sharpening gear as well.
For knives, I'm sold on the great models and varieties from Columbia River Knife and Tool (CRKT). They literally have dozens of models to choose from including those to fit hunting, fishing, military and culinary adventures. The best aspect of their knives is the quality of the material and that helps me out when putting the best edge possible on my knife.
For the best edge I've given up on the cheap sharpeners and handheld tools. None of that for me.instead I rely on the Wicked Edge for the best possible edge on my hunting knives. You know you have a sharp knife when you can get through an entire elk with one knife and the Wicked Edge allows me to put the perfect edge on my CRKT knife and do just that.
Any more I carry a knife everywhere. Since it's nearly impossible to carry a concealed handgun for safety I replace it with a knife when traveling. I carry one in the treestand in case I have to cut myself from my safety harness and I carry one while horseback, or hiking for chores and emergency situations.
Get yourself a quality knife and put a razor's edge on it. It's the best tool you'll ever own.
Mark Kayser
 |
| Crossbow or bow? Let's focus on recruiting more hunters? |
STEALING MY HUNTING SEASON?
Tuesday, April 28
Americans are diverse and oftentimes defensive about those diversities.
Across America diversities have been clashing in the form of bows versus crossbows. Should crossbows be legal hunting implements throughout the nation? Should I open that can of worms? Should I stick my foot in my mouth now? Should I get an unlisted phone number?
Here's my take on it. First, I'd like to clarify that I've never hunted with a crossbow, but I have been involved with discussions regarding the topic as a past board member for the South Dakota Bowhunters, Inc. It's legal in my home state of Wyoming, but I only know one guy who is using one. Most states now allow crossbows for qualified handicap hunters. That shouldn't even be in question.
Crossbows are easier to master, but due to a shorter and lighter bolt (arrow) crossbow accuracy drops off significantly past 30 yards and particularly beyond 40. It still requires the patience and skill bowhunters use today in bagging big game. Many also tout that crossbows will increase deer harvests. In most regions of the country that would be a good thing. Just ask your local car insurance agent. If we don't keep deer numbers in check animal activists will challenge our worthiness.
Should crossbows be allowed during archery season? That's the sticking point. I would assume that if they aren't allowed during bow season or given a separate season, at some point we'll see lawsuits based on discrimination or some other frivolous aspect. Bowhunters, muzzleloader hunters, shotgun hunters, pistol hunters and rifle hunters all have options to join in the pursuit. And if you look at all of these hunting implements, the technology for each has jumped exponentially since the inception of each weapon.
Here's the bottom line that I consider. We're not winning any awards for recruiting hunters. One quote I recall says a lot for me. Ohio has allowed crossbow hunting since 1976. Former Ohio Division of Wildlife Chief Michael J. Budzik wrote: "The crossbow has probably allowed us to recruit new hunters into our ranks because of the ease and convenience that crossbows offer over longbows. Many hunters feel that the crossbow is safer and easier to master than the longbow. We believe the crossbow has allowed for recruitment of new hunters in several categories - young hunters, women hunters, hunters with disabilities, and older hunters. Many longbow hunters have switched to crossbows because they do not have the time required to become and stay proficient with a vertical bow."
I urge everyone to have an open mind if this issue comes up in your state.
Research the data on statistics for other states and look for compromise within the ranks. Finally, look to the future. I'd rather share some of my hunting time now in hopes it might recruit new hunters. If not, who is going to continue the fight to preserve the hunting heritage? In the end we're all hunters. Stand together.
Mark Kayser
 |
| Dragging that old car body around nearly killed me. I opted for a portable blind to avoid a hernia! |
YOU DID WHAT FOR A TURKEY?
Monday, April 27
As the turkey season rambles into the final stretch you might have to alter your techniques to tag a tom. That's particularly true if you hunt public lands or share private lands with other hunters.
A friend of mine once told me about a cagey gobbler he hunted that routinely avoided his calls at the roost. After leaving the tree the old tom would hustle to a large, open pasture and strut his tail off with a posse of hens.
Cattle had grazed the pasture down to a nub and the only cover available was the rusted out hull of an Oldsmobile coupe. After several weekends of failure a light bulb lit up at the sight of the old car. The next morning he skipped the roost and set up in the old car. About 10 a.m. the gobbler and his gals strutted into the field and 45 minutes later they reached the old car with the help of some soft calls. My pal tipped the gobbler over at 25 steps.
He was proud of the fact that he shot a gobbler out the window of a car although I'm not vouching for him on the legality of the act. Nevertheless, by using an existing junk pile and vigilant scouting, he was able to get a bird for the pot.
If you opt for a rusty-car ambush, roll the window down. Good luck!
Mark Kayser
 |
| "You carry the backpack down." "No, you carry it down. I carried it up." |
WHAT'S UP WITH RUSH?
Wednesday, April 22
Have you heard about all the hoopla with Rush Limbaugh? For some reason, the conservative talk show host decided to partner up with Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). It seems kind of strange when you consider their left-leaning and radical views on sport hunting. I did a quick search of their web site and found the statement below.
"Editor's note: The HSUS does not endorse candidates for political office, but we actively oppose sport hunting."
That says enough for me. Before we shut the door on a powerful voice we should all drop Rush an e-mail telling him the mistake he made and why he should abandon any ties with the HSUS. Let's see how he responds and then make our move.
On a side note, I have an elevation to confirm. Remember the Feb. 23 blog where my son and I were contemplating taking on the mountain with sheer characteristics? After our Saturday turkey hunt we decided to give it a whirl the next day. Confirmed by my Garmin GPS, we vertically ascended 2,200 feet. Going up wasn't so bad, but coming down with a load of elk antlers while maneuvering a vertical, rock-strewn slope, chewed up my feet. It wasn't enough to stop us from considering it again this coming weekend.
Mark Kayser
 |
| "Eddie Salter better watch out at next year's turkey calling contest." |
KIDS AND HUNTING
Friday, April 17
Do you remember my blog about the decreasing number of hunters from last week? I'm testing out Wyoming's solution this weekend. The state offers a mentor program that allows adult guardians to take mentees hunting who have not taken their hunter safety course. My daughter has been involved in 4-H shooting and understands the basics of firearm safety, but still hasn't officially taken her hunter safety. She can legally do so this summer.
Because of the mentor program she and I are going turkey hunting this weekend. Her brother is also going even though he realizes Katelyn shoots first.
The basic problem with most states is the minimum age requirement to hunt.
Most have it set at 12, but countless studies and common sense says that if you don't get kids involved in activities by 10 or younger, you'll struggle to get them involved later, if ever.
Other states are starting to catch on while a few never had a minimum age requirement at all. I actually took my kids hunting in Kansas before either had hunter safety and it was one of our most enjoyable trips ever.
Check out your state's rules and regulations for youth hunting. After you do the research, take a kid hunting. That's my tip to keep you busy this weekend, and whatever your spouse asks you to do as well!
Mark Kayser
 |
"I don't think this bear calling stuff really works. Why do you want me to look over my shoulder?"
|
NORTH AMERICAN HUNTER
Thursday, April 16
Bear season is upon us and some of you may already be in the process of planning, scouting and even baiting. If your state or province has outlawed baiting and hounds, maybe you should try predator calls.
I teamed up with Mark Shutey at Stockton Outfitters in southwest Montana last spring for bears. A major spring blizzard roared in from Canada and cut our hunt short, but in the short hunting window I experienced, I'm hooked.
Calling bears works great in high density bear areas so check with your game and fish department on bear densities. You also need to consider spring food options. When a bear comes out of its den in the spring it focuses on green grass to jumpstart its digestive system. After its motor is running bears go for anything, but meat is always a top priority.
Parks and meadows are always a great place to glass and call from according to Shutey. He also hunts near known deer and elk population centers. Bears hang out there as well to take advantage of fawns and calves.
When calling, pick a good vantage point so you can see any hungry bears before they surprise you. It pays to have an armed partner to watch your backdoor. Use prey in distress like fawn or rabbit screams. Finally, stay alert. Shutey says big bears can come in fast while younger bears take their time.
Give it a try, but don't blame me if it's so exciting you have an accident in your pants!
Mark Kayser
 |
| I dare any pirate to come near my pond. "Hey pirate, make my day." |
THANKS TO NAVY SEALS
Tuesday, April 14
It was good news on Easter Sunday to hear about the successful rescue of Richard Phillips. I was also beaming with pride from news about the Navy SEAL snipers who ended the pirate standoff. When negotiations fail, sometimes you get rid of the bad guys.
One of my high school friends is on a SEAL team. Who would have imagined a landlocked South Dakotan who couldn't swim is now being dropped off miles from a shore and required to swim back to dry land. I got together with him over Christmas and although he is sworn to secrecy regarding his job, I know he's been involved in missions to rescue soldiers and others in dire predicaments. He, along with the entire military community are heroes.
Because of them, people like Richard Phillips get a second chance at life.
As for my other questions regarding SEAL tactics, equipment and life, my friend said I'd have to watch the Discovery channel.
Here's a special thanks to everyone in uniform!
Mark Kayser
 |
| To heck with the complexity of applying for big game licenses. I'm going to stick with bunnies! Oops, I hope that wasn't the Easter bunny. |
NUMBER OF HUNTERS ON THE DECLINE
Monday, April 13
The number of hunters continues to decrease, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Survey on Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife -Associated Recreation. The survey estimates a 10 percent decrease from 1996 through 2006. As America becomes less rural and moves toward an urban lifestyle, outdoor sports, like hunting, suffer.
I've been researching Western hunts for magazine articles and I can tell you with certainty that applying for a Western hunting license is another reason there are fewer hunters.
Have you looked at big game hunting applications lately? Many of these applications make a tax return look like a first grade reading book. States are micromanaging for the best possible hunting, whether for quality or quantity, but there has to be an easier way to transfer the information to the public. I literally spent hours this week trying to understand hunting options from Washington to Kansas.
One way to make it simpler is to have fewer hunting units or at least group the smaller units into larger units requiring the same management practices.
Second, give me one price. It's too confusing when you need to purchase a hunting license, a deer permit, a habitat stamp or an archery permit. Package it all together.
Third, make it obvious if I need to apply for a license or if it is available over-the-counter. Finally, I don't mind if you need to have an early deadline, but if I send my money early, I expect to hear my results within a month. Several states take your application fee and bank it for several months. What do I look like, Citibank? Hey, where's my stimulus bailout?
Mark Kayser
 |
| Hmmm, should I use a half-strut jake, a strutting jake, a strutting tom, a gobbling tom, a pouting tom or an emotionally unstable jake decoy? Decisions, decisions, decisions. |
WHAT DECOY SHOULD I USE?
Wednesday, April 8
Some of you are beginning to hear the gobbling despite the snow and rain.
For those of you in the South, we "northerners" have been dodging snowballs and thunderstorms due to consecutive waves of bad weather. Judging from the forecast it looks like our turkey window is about to open.
Reader Brian Tyndall writes: "What is the best set up for an early spring gobbler? Should I use a mature gobbler decoy or a jake decoy with a hen decoy? I have both the B-Mobile and the Jake-Mobile, and of course She-Mobile, but I'm still learning about the proper time to use them."
When Brian figures it out, I hope he shares it with me. Remember, turkeys have a brain the size of a pea. They worry about eating and survival of the species. Even so, here's a rule many experienced turkey hunters follow.
Early in the season use a jake decoy. Before the start of rampant breeding it's all about dominance and territory. If a tom comes to your setup and views a jake decoy he's likely to trot over and run the foam intruder off, even bypassing hen decoys in the rush. This philosophy has worked for me on many occasions.
On the flip side, using a mature tom decoy may spook a lone jake not wishing to get his butt kicked or even a mature tom thinking the same. That said, if you've watched a local tom act tough and bully other gobblers, a mature tom decoy may just be the ticket.
Here's one thing I know for sure. If you ever figure turkeys out and can predict their behavior, quit your day job and accept a position at NASA.
You're a rocket scientist for sure!
Author's note: For the best in decoys visit Hazel Creek Decoys.
Mark Kayser
NORTH AMERICAN HUNTING CLUB MEMBERS ARE EVERYWHERE
Monday, April 6
I just returned from the Wisconsin Deer and Turkey Expo. The weather gods gave me a break and the eight inches of snow predicted for Madison held off until my airplane was "wheels up" and headed to Wyoming via Denver. Yippee! Forgive me Madisonites, but home is where my clean underwear are along with everything else about my life.
 |
Wisconsin sure grows some big deer. It must be the cheese.
|
It always amazes me at the amount of NAHC decals I see on trucks and the life member jackets folks are donning in the crowd. I'm also amazed at how many attendees stop me in the aisles just to compliment me on stories they've read and to acknowledge they are "club" members just like myself. It truly shows the great reach the club has across the country. Although it is a club, it feels more like a fellowship and every person I meet leaves as a friend whether we agree or not on the best way to dispense doe urine.
At the end of my seminar I offer audience members the opportunity for questions and comments. I want to renew that offer to web visitors as well.
And remember, NAH also offers several other portals to pose questions to experts. Each issue of the magazine includes Q&A from the Bowhunting Advisory Council as well as the Shooting Council. In addition there's an area to pose any questions or concerns you might have regarding hunting or the club.
Here's one question I have for you. When is it going to stop snowing? Think spring and shoot a tight pattern this turkey season.
Mark Kayser
TIMELINESS IS EVERYTHING
Friday, April 3
Timeliness is everything and my timing couldn't be better. I'm jumping on a flight (weather willing) to Madison, Wisc., for the Deer and Turkey Expo. I'm going there to present seminars and guess on what topic? "Beat the Cold and Bag a Bruiser," which is ironic because once again a storm is bearing down on my home so I hope I make my flight. Timely isn't it?
 |
| I don't care if Luke Skywalker did crawl into some creature to stay warm. I'm not doing it! |
Regardless of the weather, it will be great to be in Madison talking shop with other hunters. Shows like this give me a better perspective on just what the average hunter is thinking about, the upcoming season and this year I'm sure I'll hear about the economy. Not only do I get to share my thoughts on staying warm, but I invite the audience to participate as well. You can't believe the great ideas I've heard at these shows. Of course I've also heard some not so great ideas, but that's another story.
If you're in the neighborhood, stop by the show. Think spring!
Mark Kayser
IT'S HITTING US ALL
Wednesday, April 1
You knew the hunting industry wouldn't be impervious to the economic woes afflicting the country. Unlike the government, most consumers and industry members are cutting back, saving money and working hard to make a dollar.
Why isn't our government doing the same?
 |
| Do I get fries with that? |
In the outfitting industry I'm hearing tales of fewer bookings and even cancellations due to the economy. Overall, most outfitters I've talked to say they are down by about 20 percent so I'm assuming at least 20 percent or more of you are going to hold out on that big hunt this coming fall, outfitter or do-it-yourself.
Last week I stopped by to visit Ken Krieger at Oak Canyon Ranch. Ken runs a small outfitting business in the heart of some of South Dakota's best whitetail country. His trophies hanging in his house would make any diehard whitetail hunter envious, yet even he has a couple openings for this fall.
I hate to see "Mom and Pop" operations like Ken's or even rural sporting goods stores suffer due to the greed of corporate America, and the runaway spending of government. Sure America voted for change, but let's hope we're not looking for spare change in the coming months.
Mark Kayser
IT'S TURKEY SEASON ... SUPPOSEDLY
March 30, 2009
Turkey season opens in my backyard this Wednesday. Am I going? If I can get Nanook of the North to visit me and let me borrow his sled and Huskies to get to my hunting location I'll go.
 |
| Have you seen my barn? Have you seen any turkeys? Have you seen global warming? |
Right now I can't go anywhere unless it's an emergency and my tractor starts. It's snowing feet of snow and the winds make rotor wash from a helicopter seem like a mild breeze.
Personally, I think the turkeys flew south.
Days like these really make me question Al Gore and the global warming concept. I know there's evidence showing the arctic ice sheets are receding and continental temperatures are rising slightly, but come on!
No, my kids and I are going to hold off on our turkey hunting until later in April when hopefully global warming kicks in and takes care of this pesky moisture. Think spring and if you see any Wyoming turkeys passing by, send them home.
Mark Kayser
MY LOVE/HATE RELATIONSHIP WITH MY HORSES
Friday, March 27
I'm not a real cowboy in the fact that I rarely wrestle calves even though I have from time to time helped ranching pals at branding time. I'm just a guy who got suckered into horses by marrying a horse-loving wife.
 |
| Now does the horse remember how to get off the mountain? |
Because of that I'm now a horseman. Since I was helping with chores and investing time in the activity I decided to get something more out of the relationship. With the horses I mean. Right then and there I decided I'd use horses to scout, look for shed antlers and even for hunting.
In fact, until this year I never owned an ATV, but I am in the process of dealing on a Yamaha Grizzly. Horses are good for some valid reasons. They're quiet and if you keep your profile low you can actually walk up on big game. Horses can also be used to access steep country or wilderness areas where ATVs are restricted. Finally, when I'm shed hunting horses are able to thread through thick timber and the elevated view gives me an edge in collecting antlers.
The down side to this is you have to take care of them year-round.
Fortunately I have enough property to graze them much of the year and there's developed water to hydrate them. In the winter though, it's like babysitting toddlers. They are constantly waiting for their feed and if you don't keep up on the manure chores your barn might disappear. Can you say "horse diapers." Fortunately my family chips in and my daughter is now showing my saddle horse at 4-H so she's taking on more responsibilities.
I do love horses, but it's often a fine line.
Mark Kayser
SHED HUNTING VACATION
Wednesday, March 25
Some people take a late winter vacation to the Caribbean. Some folks go to Mexico and lounge on the beach. Me, I'm loading my horses and going shed hunting for a few days.
 |
| Dang! He beat me to the antlers again. |
It's spring break, but you wouldn't know it since there's been a chance of snow every day. Even so, my son is accompanying me and we're going to hit some of my hunting locations to look for dropped antlers and scout. Our horse trailer is going to double as our camp… what's that smell?
The opportunity to pick up a trophy shed antler is definitely driving my actions, but this time of year is primetime to scout as well.
First, the woods are empty of leaves and foliage. You can see everywhere and everything. That means scrapes and rubs jump out at you like the Boogie Man on Halloween. You can often see the rub and scrape lines ahead of you as you look.
Concentrations of rubs and scrapes also may indicate new bedding areas you overlooked. And when you're poking around you don't have to worry about bumping that big buck and putting the fear of God into him. Sure you may roust him from his bed, but he'll have four to six months to settle down again before you target him.
On a sad note, you could stumble across a dead buck you hoped had made it through the season. Whether injured from an auto collision, wounded during hunting season, stressed from winter or even attacked by a mountain lion, deer do occasionally die and their picked-clean carcasses show up easily at this time of year.
It's a sad discovery, but if you're lucky another dominant buck will take his place next season.
Spend a weekend in the woods and see what I mean.
Mark Kayser
ARE THEY COMING FOR YOUR GUNS?
Monday, March 23
Have you been receiving a flurry of e-mails regarding the new administration's intentions and initial actions regarding firearms and ammunition? I have. I have no doubt we're in for a fight based upon the history of people being placed in powerful positions.
I also have no doubt that when push comes to shove, Americans will rally for their Second Amendment rights. It's one of many distinctions that makes our Constitution unique and worth the fight. Who wouldn't want the right to defend themselves and their family, the rights granted by the Second Amendment?
 |
| It's not a black gun ... see, there's some green on it. |
Are we going to lose some liberties with our firearms? I have no doubt we will and one of the first under fire will be laws governing ownership of "assault rifles" and high capacity magazines. The recent uptick in violence along the border with Mexico is fueling that fire as I write.
Do we need AR style rifles for hunting? No. You can just as easily kill a coyote with a single-shot rifle, but does that mean we shouldn't be able to own and use them? You can also kill coyotes with Daniel Boone-era flintlocks. Historically our military has always used the best firearms and after the battle many of those same firearms have made it into civilian hands. How many of you have a WWII Springfield .30-06 in your family?
ARs function just like other semiautomatic firearms except for the fact they have a military look to them. I own several ARs and they cycle ammunition like the Browning A-5 my grandfather handed down to me from his father. Am I going to give up my heirloom A-5? Heck no!
ARs and the like are what make America unique as well. It's diversity that makes this country great, diverse terrain, diverse cultures and in my gun cabinet, a diverse collection of firearms. Now where's that gun oil?
Mark Kayser
SHOOT SOME CARDBOARD
Friday, March 20
Do you need something to do this weekend? Shoot some cardboard. Turkey season is right around the corner so you need to get your shotgun out and pattern it. Most shotguns will kill a turkey out to 30 yards with little modification, but if you want a hot rod shotgun, you can modify it to shoot to 70 yards and beyond.
 |
| Another one bites the dust? |
Look into turkey chokes like the Undertaker series from Hunter's Specialties. If you combine that choke with quality turkey loads like Winchester's Xtended Range or Federal's Strut-Shok and you'll soon be making shots to 50 yards and beyond.
My goal in turkey hunting is to get a bird right in my face, but time is always a factor and if you only have a day or two to hunt, it's good insurance to have a shotgun that will drop a bird at longer distances.
While testing loads one spring some friends and I had one shotgun shooting guaranteed shots at 70 yards and even pushed a couple to 85 yards.
It's spring. Smack some cardboard now for a longbeard later.
Mark Kayser
SURPRISE AROUND EVERY CORNER
Monday, March 16
I know it's difficult finding land to hunt these days. Just because you're on TV doesn't mean gates automatically open. In fact, I think sometimes it can be a detriment. That's why this weekend it was a breath of fresh air to secure some new land for my kids' turkey hunting activities.
 |
Thanks... errr, could you get your goat to stop that?
|
I teamed up with my brother since he works in agricultural implement repair and knows many more landowners than myself. The first place we stopped the landowner wasn't around, but that was OK. First, my brother already had received permission, we just wanted to stop and say thanks, and scout.
We didn't have to scout long. From the yard we counted 22 longbeards. No kidding!
The next stop was a cold call, but it was the big surprise. We pulled into the ranch of a landowner my brother knew from working on a tractor. When I asked him about possibly taking my kids turkey hunting on his property he didn't even pause before granting us permission. He then gave us a tour of the property.
Of course, he may have felt guilty since both my brother and I were battered and abused by his goats. It's a small price to pay for a place to go hunting.
Mark Kayser
GOOD MORNING AMERICA, GOOD MORNING MARK KAYSER
Friday, March 13
"Ah the weekend. It's different on the weekend." Those are the words of some weekend commentator on ABC's "Good Morning America" weekend show. I can guarantee you that this weekend will be different at the Kayser home than at the home of that commentator. Since snow once again blankets my backyard I'm sticking around home to get some chores done before I take off on turkey and shed hunting adventures.
 |
| Is it soup yet? |
Here's the difference. I thought I'd ready the pile of stinking, rotting skulls in my barn for my annual spring boil off. I doubt that commentator is contemplating a chore of this magnitude. After every successful fall hunt I wrap the trophy skulls in plastic, secure the plastic with duct tape (I buy it in bulk for everything) and then heap them in a pile in the loader bucket of my tractor.
Throughout the winter they rot slowly and in the next few weeks they'll be riper than a road-killed Arkansas opossum in July.
The good thing is that when I drop them in the pot (after gagging uncontrollably) the meat falls right off. For some reason elk and pronghorn skulls clean up faster than deer. If you're wondering, I do this chore in my barn and never boil, just simmer the skulls.
Boiling too fast can destroy a skull. It's a lonely job although my daughter generally comes down to converse, always carefully staying upwind.
If I get the pot simmering tomorrow it will be "Good Morning America" and "there goes my breakfast!"
For a weekend “what-to-do,” remember to keep an eye on those turkeys. I'm also going to scout in the mornings for a nearby spot to take the kids. You do the same and get some of those household chores out of the way before the April run of turkey hunts.
Mark Kayser
HOW DO YOU BECOME A PROFESSIONAL HUNTER?
Thursday, March 12First off, thanks for all e-mails. It's great to know someone is actually reading my ramblings. I've answered some directly, but this is one that is fired at me dozens of times a year so I decided to respond in group therapy. Here goes.
 |
| Whew! Home at last! What the heck? 1,376 e-mails? |
"Mark,
I have been hunting all my life starting as a child with my father and granddad (among many other family and friends) in upstate New York and northern Pennsylvania. And for the past 14 years I've lived and hunted in Colorado and Wyoming. How do you become a semi-pro or professional hunter and make a living at it?
Brad Nupp
Life Member
Berthoud, CO"
Here's what I tell youth groups when I'm asked about this question. You can be anything you want to be. Almost. Maybe you won't be the president, but you could be in the cabinet (be sure to pay your taxes though).
You might not fly the space shuttle, but you could work on the rockets and so on and so on. Focus on your goals and it might surprise you. From a young age I had a deep desire to pursue wildlife, first with Crayon, then with pencil, next with camera and finally with firearms. At six I asked for a stuffed pheasant from Santa for Christmas instead of a LEGO set. That was my mindset.
In junior high I began photographing wildlife seriously and wrote about hunting and wildlife in the school newspaper. I continued on that same track through college splitting my classes between wildlife management and journalism before finally focusing on journalism. That's when I started freelancing for magazines and continued that stint for nearly 18 years.
After graduating from college I had a fulltime job at the time, but burned the midnight oil, literally. I would come home and begin working on my articles and photography at 8 p.m. and wrap up at 1 a.m. I did that for 14 years. Ask my wife.
My public relations job occasionally put me in touch with editors and producers, and one thing led to another. Before long many were asking me to be guests on their shows or submit an article on a hunting tactic I shared with them. The rest is history and now I make a living from writing, photography, television and public speaking.
It's great, but you have to remember I'm a one-man show except for the fact my wife handles the business paperwork and keeps the household and family together while I travel. Bless her soul.
Did I mention the travel? I'm gone almost four straight months in the fall and every other week throughout the winter and spring. Unless I go to Africa, summer is the only time I'm home much at all. You have to be focused, independent, driven and a road warrior to consider such a lifestyle. I never imagined I'd where I'm at today, but I'm enjoying the ride!
Mark Kayser
BEFORE AND AFTER
Tuesday, March 10
Don't you love those "before" and "after" photos of people taking part in weight loss programs, plastic surgery procedures or even the new rage, colon cleansings (talk about people with too much time on their hands!).
.jpg "kaysersnow1") |
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood and nobody is going to trip and stab themsevles on these antlers Kayser is picking up.
|
Here's the Kayser series of before and after photos. Over the weekend my son and I took a trip across the border into Montana to look for shed antlers.
The weather was beautiful and we took care to stay out of elk country to avoid harassing winter-stressed big game. Instead, we stayed along creek and river bottoms, and in the surrounding foothills.
We had one of our best two-day totals ever on finding sheds even though we started mid-morning on Saturday and quit early on Sunday.
Why did we quit early on Sunday? Here's some background first. We always make up contests and set goals. Our main contests are who will find the first antler and of course, the biggest.
From then on we set daily goals based on our knowledge of the area. We were within three antlers of our Sunday goal when we happened to catch the radio weather forecast. It blared, "Winter storm warning beginning 6 p.m. Sunday."
What? When I left I was of the understanding that Sunday had only a chance of rain. Now they were forecasting two days of winter storms and a foot or more of snow.
Since we had 60 miles of gumbo roads to traverse before getting to the highway and we clearly weren't going to make it home before it hit, we did the only sensible thing possible: We parked the truck and ran to the nearest thicket to see if we could hit our goal.
We did find one more antler and headed home, but the storm beat us to the front door. We got dumped on with snow. I'm still digging out, but the exercise is great and it's a better option than colon cleansers.
Mark Kayser
ANOTHER DAY AT THE OFFICE (YEAH, BUT WHAT AN OFFICE!)Friday, March 6When I stepped off the airplane at the Atlanta International Airport at midnight earlier this week, the wind chill took my breath away. When I left home it was 66 in Wyoming, but when I landed Atlanta was in the 20s. So much for an escape from winter.
 |
When you're hunting in frigid November, you need to get photos however you can. I did it in Georgia in March.
|
A few hours later the warmth of friends, new and old warmed me as a group of us hustled to photograph hunting scenes in the woods north of Atlanta.
I was the guest of Hunter's Safety Systems, the most important safety item any treestand hunter should own before ascending a tree. Look into it.
I was also a guest of Field Logic, the parent company of famous archery targets such as the Block and the GlenDel Buck, plus the company that produces the devastating Rage broadhead. Karen Lutto, Lutto and Associates, coordinated the event at one of the most unique outdoor properties I've visited, Barnsley Gardens Resort.
In addition to hours of great photography, we were able to take part in an historic tour of the property, sporting clays and a Southern-style quail hunt. Since I had airline delays (imagine that!) and long days beginning before dawn and ending well after dusk, I had to sleep fast.
The lack of sleep was worth it. I shot more than 1,000 images so you can guess what I'll be doing when I get home: editing.
Now for your "Weekend What To Do." Remember that turkey season is just around the corner. Alabama's opens in a few days. Get out and scout!
I'm not a big fan of calling in turkeys prior to the season, but it doesn't hurt to use locator calls at dawn and dusk. You can also spend a few hours spotting birds from the road as they travel along field edges. Turn the TV off and get outside. Who needs to listen to the gloom and doom anyway?
Mark Kayser
Editor's Note: We think Mark means "Turn the TV off... unless you're watching North American Hunter-TV." In that case, we believe Mark would want you to keep watching, and probably invite a few friends over to watch with you.
"Octomom" And Coyotes
Monday, March 2
Are you tired of the press on the irresponsible behavior of the "Octomom?"
I am.
I could go on and on about her, but I feel too sorry for her family, especially the eight new additions, to start that rant.
 |
Will the "Octomom" inspire a burgeoning coyote population in Kayser's backyard?
|
I am hoping that the Octomom-craze bubbles over into the local coyote population. Hunting has been a little slow this winter, so I'm hoping the coyotes have been tuning into Oprah and Dr. Phil, and take the hint and reproduce in massive numbers.
Actually they don't have to follow Octomom's lead. They're the original Octomoms of the outdoors.
Numerous studies have documented how coyote litter sizes vary due to density and prey availability. On average a litter consists of five to seven pups, but this does fluctuate from year to year.
One Texas study indicated that "litter sizes may vary inversely with the coyote population density. Litter sizes in areas of high population density averaged three to four whereas in areas of low coyote numbers the average increased to as high as nine per litter."
In short, coyotes in low density regions often increase their density with larger litters when prey is available.
Next year if there are a lot of coyotes around I'll owe a big thank you to Octomom.
Mark Kayser
MARK KAYSER DOES YOGA?
Friday, Feb. 27
 |
| Hungry yet? |
If I can't come up with a timely topic late in the week to write about I'm going to toss out an idea or two for you to consider for a weekend pursuit.
There are very few things I do in my life that don't revolve around hunting and the natural world so you don't have to worry about me recommending a day of yoga or discussing the latest in summer sandals.
I will push the notion that if you're a family person, you should be doing something with your kids in the outdoors whenever possible. I think you can see from some of my posts I try to do that as often as possible. I do that partly because I feel guilty about being on the road so much, but mainly because I enjoy sharing the outdoors with family.
So here goes my first "Weekend What To Do" topic….
Since it's still winter and you may or may not be having a "picture perfect" weekend for outdoor activities, put on the chef's hat.
 |
| Fire up the stove, I'm bringing home the bacon. |
Poll your family and ask them to name their favorite meal. Next, dig through your freezer to find some game that needs to be eaten and can be incorporated into the meal. Now, invite everyone to join in the meal to create a wild game feast.
I asked my daughter the other night what her favorite wild game meal was and the answer floored me more than hearing the latest debt created by the stimulus package. She said antelope loin steaks cooked in olive oil were her favorite. Guess what's for dinner honey?
HINT: If jerky is on the list visit www.himtnjerky.com for easy-to-use kits.
Mark Kayser
MINE'S BIGGER THAN YOURS
Wednesday, Feb. 25 As long as we use rifles to hunt there will be a debate on the best caliber to use. Fortunately that debate is becoming less controversial with the introduction of great bullets such as the Barnes X and Nosler's Accubond, among others.
 |
A .300 Winchester Magnum memory and a late-night, family reunion. Katelyn, Mark and Cole Kayser are all smiles over Mark finally connecting with a world-class whitetail. The deer isn't quite as happy.
|
I recently had a mini "You Call The Shots" session with a good friend of mine on exactly this topic. He was ranting about the craze toward bigger guns and how they weren't required for deer-sized game. His theory, in short, was that with better bullets and proper shot placement you don't need the massive foot-pounds of energy generated by canons in the .30-caliber range and beyond.
I agreed, but also disagreed. And here's why.
I'm a proponent of shooting the biggest gun you can handle without flinching and without becoming ridiculous. Why? Nothing in the world is perfect, especially when it comes to the natural world. Sure smaller calibers beginning with common rounds like the .223 can handle deer-sized game, but how often do you get to pick the time or place where you'll meet a deer?
And when you do meet, what guarantees do you have that the deer will present a perfect broadside shot or you'll be able to control the swell of adrenalin spurting through your body to make the perfect shot. What if the shot is beyond 200 yards? Will you be able to quickly and accurately calculate trajectory?
In short, larger calibers fly flatter and deliver a bigger punch with more wallop. Combine that with a proven bullet that expands and retains weight, and your chances increase of recovering a buck even with a marginal hit.
This past year I shot the largest whitetail of my life. The shot angle was almost straight away and a candidate for "You Call The Shots." My big .300 Winchester Magnum performed as promised and dropped the buck in its tracks.
No tracking required. Supersize mine please.
Mark Kayser
Editor's Note: What do you think about this issue? E-mail your thoughts and comments to Mark at insidetrack@namginc.com. Let Mark know why you agree or disagree with him. Label your e-mail with a subject line titled "Mines Bigger Than Yours."
YOU WANT ME TO GO WHERE?
Monday, Feb. 23
I have cabin fever year-round so it doesn't take much prodding to get me out. One of my latest adventures was to scout elk country, both for hunting and to look for shed antlers this coming spring.
 |
| Not many dads want their kids climbing something like this, but Mark and Cole might conquer the 2,000-foot rock wall while scouting for elk. |
My 11-year-old son, Cole, joined me and we did our initial scouting from the truck using my Nikon 82mm ED Fieldscope. As the slopes lit up with the morning sun we started to spot elk and primarily bulls.
After locating about 18 different bulls we drove around the mountain to take a hike and look in another pocket. After about two hours of uphill hiking we stopped for lunch and spotted another band of bulls. These bulls had tucked themselves nearly 2,000 feet up against a sheer rock wall.
Cole and I sat there and dissected the mountain trying to determine the best route for a later rendezvous.
Regardless of how we sliced it, the hike was going to be a memorable one due to the straight-up assault.
Despite the gut-wrenching, vertical ascension, we both agreed to give it a shot ... after the snow melts and the bulls drop their antlers.
I'll keep you posted.
Mark Kayser
4-H SHOOTING
Friday, Feb. 20
 |
| Mark's son, Cole Kayser, may someday be a better shot than his dad. |
The weekend is coming up and you know what that means, right? For me it means taking my kids to 4-H shooting. Every Friday night local shooting instructors take time to oversee 4-H shooting sport activities and aid in coaching shooting instruction. It's great.
Both my kids participate, but I have to be honest. My daughter enjoys 4-H horse and cat programs more than the shooting program. Even so, she's learned proper gun handling and at some point in the future that will come in handy when I buy her a handgun for personal protection.
In the winter they shoot at an indoor range with both rifles and handguns in .22 long rifle. The club also has a great selection of air guns to sharpen skills without the "bang."
In the spring they go outside for shotgun and skeet activities. If you're looking for a wintertime activity that is also educational, check with your local 4-H club regarding their shooting sports program.
Mark Kayser
WHEN ANIMALS ATTACK
Thursday, Feb. 19
 |
| Sharon Kayser practicing with a Glock, just in case she encounters a mountain lion... or Mark refuses to take out the trash. |
The other night at cub scouts a game warden did a presentation on Wyoming wildlife, complete with furs. The kids enjoyed touching the furs and guessing which animal once carried the prime pelt. My wife Sharon was standing right beside me and when the warden mentioned wolf sightings in the region she turned to me with a questioning look.
She was already aware of the mountain lions roaming the region and saw firsthand the black bear by our house, but wolves got her thinking twice about her long walks down the road, and feeding our horses in the dark.
I gave her several options since she appeared concerned.
First, make lots of noise and that will eliminate 99 percent of all encounters. Second, carry a gun. I offered her our home protection shotgun, my Crimson Trace-equipped Glock or the big gun, the S&W .460 X-Frame.
Finally, I told her to carry her can of Counter Assault pepper spray.
The options brought a smile back to her face so I didn't have the heart to tell her about the suspected grizzly bear less than 80 miles to the northeast of our place.
Mark Kayser
ON THE FLY
Tuesday, Feb. 17
I'm writing this as I fly back from the set of You Call the Shots. It reminds me of why I don't fly any more than I have to these days. I forgot it was President's Day weekend, but gobs of other folks didn't.
 |
| The airport is a scene Kayser avoids as much as possible. |
The security lines were backed up with dozens of people in a winding line, and even though I planned for enough time to get through, I overheard many behind me grumbling how "they had never seen it this busy." You can't necessarily blame anyone, but flights are packed; it takes an act of Congress to change a ticket and you're likely to only spend a few more hours in a vehicle as opposed to the time you spend in airports, and on airplanes.
Hey, with the price of fuel where it's at right now, I'm driving when driving makes sense.
I'll see you at the truck stop!
Mark Kayser
VALENTINE'S WEEKEND
Friday, Feb. 13
Despite Having Valentine's Day smack dab in the middle of February, the month can be somewhat of a drag for hunters. Turkey seasons are still a few weeks away and most major hunting seasons have been closed for a month or more. What can a hunter do?
 |
| How to survive Valentine's Day? Get the gun out, says Mark Kayser. |
Here are three activities to keep you sane this weekend.
1. Try and howl up a coyote. February is breeding season for coyotes and like rutting whitetails, amorous coyotes often respond to the vocalizations of possible dates. A long drawn out howl is the best way to lure in a willing mate.
2. Visit a landowner. If you have access to land based on a handshake, get shaking. While you're at it, offer your energy to help with any chores either now or in the future. Burning a few calories is much cheaper than purchasing 500 acres of land.
3. Clean your firearms. Admit it. You finished hunting season and put your guns up without cleaning the barrels and oiling the action. Put in a good movie and watch it while you prep your guns for next season. While you're out purchasing gun cleaning products, don't forget some chocolate for that someone special.
Mark Kayser
GET-R DONE ... WHILE YOU CAN!
Thursday, Feb. 12
 |
| A confused Kayser. |
If you're a nonresident you already missed the deadline to apply for Wyoming elk. OUCH!
Calm down. Stop the cussing. You have options. Most of the deadlines for elk licenses and the various states that force you to apply for a deer license are still open. Research the deadlines and note them on your Blackberry, or if you're old fashion like me, mark the deadlines in your Daytimer.
It's one thing to miss a deadline for elk, but you certainly don't want to miss a deadline for sheep, moose or even mountain goat. Trying to juggle a job and keep up with application deadlines across the nation became too much for me.
You know the old saying. Time is money. Today I rely on Cabela's Trophy Application and Guide Service to meet those deadlines while I'm off hunting or failing to keep up with the kids' extracurricular activities.
I tell the folks at TAGS what I'd like to hunt and they charge me a nominal fee to apply for hunting licenses or appropriate preference points. It costs me a bit, but at least I don't miss deadlines for hunting or family ... at least most of the time.
Mark Kayser
BEHIND THE SCENES: YOU CALL THE SHOTS
Tuesday, Feb. 10
It’s that time of year again. The time of year when I get together with other North American Hunter staff and alumni to film the popular “You Call the Shots” segments for North American Hunter Television.
 |
| On the set of "You Call The Shots." |
Since North American Hunter is based in Minnesota we are relegated to meeting in the land that the movie “Fargo” made famous. It’s likely to be cloudy and cold, but you can bet the studio set will be warm and welcoming. I don’t know of a finer bunch of chaps than the staff at North American Hunter.
And speaking of fine gentlemen, you won’t find a better example than Texas native Larry Weishuhn who will also be joining us under the floodlights. I’ll make one more prediction. Larry will rib me about hunting with a string and sticks, but I’ll fire right back poking fun at Larry’s tendency to “carry enough gun” on every hunt. The filming will be fast and furious, but it’s sure to provide you ample entertainment in the months ahead.
Mark Kayser
Editor's Note: Click here to watch "You Call The Shots" video online. As for Kayser's comment ("I don't know a finer bunch of chaps than the staff at North American Hunter") thanks Mark - your check is in the mail.
SUNSHINE AND QUAIL
Friday, Feb. 6
Are you looking for a winter break? You probably don't need one if you live in the southern half of the United States, but having spent my entire life in block-heater country, a wintertime recess in desert country is as welcome as Chinook winds.
 |
| Three Kayser-killed quail. |
That's just what I did this past week. I caught a plane to the infamous city of Roswell, New Mexico (sorry, no alien sightings to report), traveled another hour and a half southwest, and met up with my good friend Bob King who operates the Santa Fe Guiding Company. The plan was to hunt scaled quail and enjoy the sunshine. Of course, I was there for work to film a TV show and gather information and photos for magazine articles. Even so, I couldn't help but relish the absence of snow and mud.
With the good you have to take some of the bad, and the prickly pear cactus along with the cholla bushes jabbed and bit me from time to time, but not enough to make me wish I was back scooping snow and doing horse chores.
Quail numbers were good, the temperatures were perfect for dog and masters alike, and the beauty of the desert was spectacular even painted in the drab colors of winter. If you're looking for a break, New Mexico is a great midwinter destination. Small game licenses are cheap, public land is abundant and Bob is always willing to provide tour guide services for those looking to be pampered. Now it's back home to wind chills, mountain snowfall and neighing horses hungry for hay.
Oh––by the way––a block heater is a device that goes into your engine block and plugs in to pre-heat your motor. This past December, a West Coast buddy of mine had never seen one before, so hence the explanation. Stay warm!
Mark Kayser
NEVER SAY NEVER
Thursday, Feb. 5
So I’m sitting at my desk the other morning and hear a helicopter fly over low. It catches my interest so I take a look and curse at its sight. It’s an animal damage control aircraft with a mission to shoot coyotes.
 |
| Mark Kayser with a coyote taken by howling. |
Now I’m not against trimming the coyote population, but I had already decided to take a sunset hike from my house on this particularly cold day to try and call a coyote. The helicopter was flying the exact pasture I planned to hunt. When afternoon arrived I decided to still take the hike. Heck, I needed the exercise.
Immediately I saw large herd of antelope and hot on their heels I spied a coyote. It looked like the whole lot saw me, but I angled away and at sunset I started to howl while overlooking several large draws. Forty-five minutes later with subzero temperatures numbing my fingers a coyote trotted in. At 150 yards I thought it saw me so I squeezed the trigger and heard a “click.”
The sluggish firing pin wasn’t hitting the primer hard enough due to the below zero cold. The coyote disappeared, but soon showed up even closer. I cycled another cartridge through my AR and had a repeat performance, not once, but three more times. In the meantime, the coyote had sat down on its rump and stared at the white form on the hill shucking cartridges in the snow.
With only one chance left, I slammed the bolt and aimed at the 100-yard target. The rifle went “boom” followed by a “plunk” as the bullet hit home. I was reminded of two lessons. First, make sure your rifle action is devoid of any grease on cold hunts. Secondly, have confidence. Even after having some of Wyoming’s finest hunt a pasture prior to me, I still ran into the unluckiest coyote in the West.
Mark Kayser
THANKS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY
Monday, Feb. 2
 |
| Mark Kayser |
When the crew at North American Hunter offered me the opportunity to share my thoughts on the club website in an ongoing blog, I jumped on it like my son’s barn cat, Maggie, jumps on a field mouse in our pasture. Like Maggie, I’ll be dragging back stories from the field for you, plus information on gear and tactics that also grabbed my attention, and spawned success. If I catch wind of new laws or legislation that might affect you, I’ll discuss that as well.
Most importantly, I want to hear from you. If you have a question or topic that sparks your interest, share it with me and if I can’t provide an adequate answer, I’m sure your fellow members will chip in with an opinion. If you don’t know much about me now, you will. I plan on sharing as much as I can about my travels, tactics and why hunting is so important in my life. And remember, even if we don’t agree on everything, we can agree on one thing. We all enjoy hunting and want the tradition to carry on for many generations to come. Thanks!
Mark Kayser