Backwoods Bound Bullet

ARTICLE: WEEDS - GOOD FOR QUAIL, BAD FOR ALLERGIES

  Weed pollen may have many Oklahomans reaching for a tissue this fall, but that is good news for quail, according to Mike Sams, upland bird biologist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

  "Biologists call them forbs, but everybody else calls them weeds," Sams said. "These forbs or weeds are often overlooked as an important component in quality quail habitat."

  While weather patterns often dictate booms in quail populations, no boom would be possible without habitat, and weeds are an important part of quail habitat.

  "There's nothing we can do about the weather, but we can work hard to make sure that quality habitat is available for quail. Good habitat, and weeds are a part of good habitat, is like a buffer - it can lessen the impact of severe weather swings," Sams said. "While weeds are cussed and discussed by landowners managing for grass, weeds are a life blood of quail in native brushy prairie."

  According to Sams, one of the most important factors in quality habitat is weed diversity. Sams points out that ragweed, sunflowers, crotons, smartweed and many other weeds are important parts of a quail's diet.

  "Bobwhite require a variety of foods for their nutritional needs and the more types of seeds available the better," said Sams.

  Managing for a variety of plant species, rather than emphasizing a single species in a food plot, increases the probability of the proper food being available, Sams said. Different plants produce seeds at different times during the growing season and different types of seeds provide different nutrients. Just having ragweed and other weeds is not enough, though. In fact, properties covered in ragweed reflect grazing abuse and are not usually good quail habitat.

  Landowners can increase the plant diversity and quail cover on their property through a range of management techniques such as disking, prescribed fire and controlled grazing.

  To learn more about improving the quail habitat on your property, log on to www.wildlifedepartment.com/laprogrm.htm.

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BACKWOODS HEALTH: WATCH THAT BLOOD

- As society becomes more aware of the risks of exposure to blood-borne pathogens, i.e., HIV, hepatitis, West Nile virus, etc., it's apparent we must be cautious with more than just HUMAN blood. Any blood has the capability of carrying blood-borne pathogens (a virus, microorganism, or other substance that causes disease).

- That scampering squirrel and regal 10-point buck may be carrying a pathogen that could land you in the hospital, possibly even the morgue! So...do you give up hunting? Do you resign yourself to watching hunting videos in the safety of your own home? Look, you could still get West Nile from the mosquito that just flew in when you were paying the pizza boy!

- Don't give up the adventures, just take a few more precautions.

- Make sure your hands are relatively clean before you even start dressing your game. Soap and running water is the best way to wash, but if that's not available, use sanitizing wipes. They come individually packaged these days and are small and lightweight enough to carry in your pack or pocket.

- Limit the amount of blood you get on you. Wear gloves. Disposable gloves are inexpensive and can dramatically reduce, even eliminate, contact with blood. You can pickup a disposable pair of field dressing gloves at most sporting good stores for less than $1.50 a pair. Most come with a pair of shoulder length gloves with some rubber bands to keep them secure on your upper arms. The advantage to these are they keep your arms and/or shirt sleeves free of blood while cleaning the chest cavity of large game.

- For small game like squirrels, rabbits, doves just a regular pair of disposable gloves will do. If you regularly wait and clean your game at home, you might invest in a pair of long latex gloves that you can just wash off with soap when you're done and save them for the next time you bring home the bacon. Buy them in the cleaning section of your local supermarket.

- Obviously, anytime you get done cleaning game, wash your hands and arms thoroughly. Use an antibacterial soap for best results.

- The use of waterless sanitizing hand cleaners have become popular in recent years. They claim to kill up to 99% of germs they come in contact with so they are very effective. But even if you use one, wash you hands thoroughly at the first opportunity. Better to be safe than sorry.

- Next thing to keep in mind is to keep the meat clean. Minimize the meats' contact with the animal's hair and intestinal contents. These also are frequently full of pathogens. Lastly, don't contaminate the meat with other germs. There are hazardous pathogens "laying in weight" for a nice warm piece of meat to invade. After field dressing large game, wipe out the inside with a rag, leaves or grass to remove excess blood.

- Reduce the growth of bacteria by keeping the carcass cool. Thirty five to forty degrees should inhibit the growth of many pathogens. In addition, trim away any blood-shot, bruised or damaged portions of the carcass because bacterial growth will be more rapid there.

- Sanitize your knives, meat coolers, work counters and any other equipment that had contact with the meat or animal parts with a 1 part bleach to 10 parts water solution. Some pathogens can remain dormant on an unsanitized surface for months just waiting for a new host.

- Lastly, cook the meat thoroughly. Cooking to 165 degrees kills most bacteria. This means cooking the meat until it is medium-well to well done.

- Don't miss the adventure, just take care, for the good health of you and your family. Until next time...Maggie.

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ARTICLE: ARIZONA'S STATE RECORD EYE! by Gregg Munck

  I'vee never met a fisherman who was superstitious. But if you were to ever run into one, they have some interesting rituals. Some have normal quirks like a lucky hat, shirt, or lure. I've seen them toss coins into the water before the start of a tournament. Others might wear the same underwear if they are doing well in a three-day tournament. Or some might do silly things like put a penny in their shoe and many fishermen carry a lucky horseshoe in their boat. Do any of these shenanigans really work? I don't know but I am guilty of the last two mentioned.

  Walleye fishing has many different techniques. Some of the most common I use are flat-line trolling, long-lining, vertical jigging, lindy no-snag slip sinkers, walking sinkers, mo-jo rigs (some call it a mini Carolina rig or split-shotting), drop-shotting, cranking shad raps, cranking rapalas, and suspending jerkbaits.

  On November 16, 2002, the weather had brought a couple of recent cold fronts. Show Low Lake has always had a reputation for producing huge EYES. I decided to try vertical jigging after locating a concentration of fish in sixteen to twenty feet of water on my fish finder. They were located near the channel break, tight to structure, because of the 43-degree water temperature.

  I was using a seven-foot medium action casting rod with a light tip, along with a 6.3:1 gear ratio high-speed baitcast reel spooled with Trilene twelve-pound XL line. I used a black plastic craw, Texas rigged on a 3/0 XGAP X-point hook. The jig was stationary when I felt a slight tick.

  After a couple of heart stopping runs, the walleye was eventually boated and I finally got a look at her. I then got out my digital scale which was bouncing between 13.5 and 14 pounds. The weight ended up being 13 pounds, 3.25 ounces after making the drive to a certified scale. But unfortunately, for me, it missed the state record by half a pound.

  You can view the 13 pound plus walleye, which was donated to Arizona State Parks, located at 1500 N. Fool Hollow Lake Road, Show Low, Arizona. The 13-pound plus fish would have been released had it not been for the Arizona Game & Fish Department's state regulation against transporting live fish. I always catch and release the majority of my fish.

  I was a little disappointed but I believed that there was a larger fish in the same area so I decided to try again.

.   On the evening of November 18, 2002, upon arriving at the lake, I decided to start fishing where I had some luck two nights ago. After keeping a close eye on my electronics I was approaching the exact location. My graph began picking up a few large fish, holding tight to structure. I didn't get a bite with the lures that worked the previous nights. After rummaging through my tackle box, I decided to rig a black plastic leech exactly like the black craw. After jigging in the same area for a while, something just didn't feel right while the jig was on the fall so I decided to set the hook. I put a lot of pressure on the fish after the hook set, to quickly get it away from the structure.

  The humungous walleye did plenty of head shaking and made a couple of deep runs while I held my breath. I cautiously positioned the boat towards deeper water, while wrestling the huge eye closer to the boat. After netting the walleye, I had no doubt that this fish was the new state record.

  I quickly left Show Low Lake to get the fish certified. The new Arizona State Record walleye, officially recognized by the Arizona Game and Fish Department is 16 pounds, 1.76 ounces with a length of 31 inches and a girth of 21 inches. She won top honors as the largest walleye in Arizona's history.

  See persistence apparently does pay off. And this walleye still holds the record to this day.

  The next time you decide to venture out on your favorite walleye trophy lake, don't forget to pack your lucky horseshoe in the boat and put the uncomfortable penny in your shoe. Who's to say, maybe some of these superstitions really do work.

  Gregg Munck is a nationally known multi species trophy fisherman who resides in the Show Low, Arizona area. He has achieved numerous awards, including four Arizona state records to his credit. For more information on trophy fishing, or to check out Gregg's • Trophy Fishing Secrets' book just visit his website at: www.munckstrophyfishing.com.

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ARTICLE: BOOTS - IN PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE by Jessie Lee Kimball

  Few things ground you as well as wearing an excellent pair of boots. No matter what their purpose, from steel toe construction to high-heeled fashion, if the boots are made well and fit just right, wearing them makes you feel capable of anything.

  In contrast, there are few things so useless as an ill-fitting, cheap pair of boots. When it comes to foot wear, you get what you pay for. It's not always the case that the more you pay for something, the better the quality, but when it comes to boots, it is a fact. Not only do cheap boots rarely have a good fit, but they have additional downsides as well: chafing interior fabric, lace openings that make it difficult to adjust. In the little things, manufacturers cut corners to cut costs. The buyer pays the price in discomfort.

  My collection of boots is small and superb. From my knee-high black leather fashion boots to my felt-lined Sorel snow-boots, rather than having several moderately good pairs for each purpose, I find the perfect boot with the perfect fit, qualities, and look. It saves time and hogs up less closet space.

  At one time or another, you've worn a pair of boots that just didn't fit right. It could be that you paid quite a bit for them, or they looked really good with that special outfit, and you just were determined to break them in. Well, the fact is that if they didn't feel good from day one, they never will. Which leads us to the first boot-buying rule: forget about 'breaking them in.' That tight squeeze over your instep, the pokey thing in the heel, it isn't going to go away. What happens is that you end up avoiding wearing the boots because they're painful, and then you feel guilty about how much you paid for them.

  Next boot-buying rule. Know what the boots are supposed to do for you, so you have a list of criteria they must meet. Let's take hiking boots for example. There's a great range in purposes and conditions for use. If you're a day hiker you'll want a lighter-weight and more flexible boot than a trekking back-packer.

  Any good hiking boot should have these features:

  a. A minimum of two sets of lace-hooks (rather than lace holes) at the top so that you can readily adjust the tightness for uphill and downhill stretches.

  b. Waterproof and very durable exterior material and with the tongue pleated and attached all the way up to prevent leaking.

  c. Smooth liner fabric that doesn't attract seeds and is easy to clear.    d. Stiff sole with good traction designs. And the harder the material the sole is made from, the longer they will last.

  e. The fit. Hiking boots will 'pack-down' a little and form to your foot. But if they rub or bind anywhere, get a different pair - sometimes another pair in the exact same size and style will fit better. Make sure that your toes don't touch the front the least little bit, or all your downhills will be miserable. And, of course, shop for hiking boots wearing the thickness of the hiking socks you'll use.

  You can make a similar list of criteria for any type of boot you need - from work boots to fashion boots. Will the work boots need to have steel toes, waterproofing, and should they be mid-calf or ankle high? Do you want the dress boots to have a zipper or be pull-on, will you prefer low or high heels, what color will work best with your wardrobe? You've invoked the law of attraction once you clarified your expectations. You'll find that the exact right boots for you are likely to appear when you have the particulars in mind.

  For more about boots, visit www.aboots.com

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In this issue:

BACKWOODS TRIVIA: Try this one on for size.

You spend an average of five years of your life doing what?

Find the answer at the end of this newsletter.

Send your trivia questions to [email protected] .

RECIPE: JALAPENO BAKED DEER STEAKS

* In a large bowl with a lid, mix the beer, steak rub and garlic salt to taste together. Add steaks, cover and marinade overnight.

* Remove steaks from marinate and roll in the Shake & Bake. Place in a greased glass baking dish.

* Sprinkle on the shredded peppers. Cover each steak with bacon.

* Bake at 425 degrees for 20 - 25 minutes.

* "Spicy, but very good."

Our thanks to Brian for sharing his recipe. For more great tasting fish recipes go to www.backwoodsbound.com/zdeer.html.

** THE HUNTIN' HOIST NOW AVAILABLE FROM BACKWOODS BOUND!! **

The new "must have" piece of hunting equipment, The Huntin' Hoist is available for a limited time for only $21.99!! That's $3.00 off the retail price! The Huntin' Hoist is the easy to use, lightweight, automatic hunter's rope from Doyle's Deer Gear of North Vernon, Indiana.

Attach it to your belt or to your stand while you climb or descend. The Huntin' Hoist is designed to pay-out and reel-up rope as you lift or lower your weapon or gear. Nothing to flip or turn, it's automatic. Durable and compact, it's easy to use.

The Huntin' Hoist contains 30 feet of high strength braided rope for the tallest treestands and can handle loads up to 200 pounds. That's more than enough strength to pull up the heaviest gun, bow or pack to your stand.

The Huntin' Hoist is in stock and ready to ship. Go to www.backwoodsbound.com/huntprduct1.html for more information and details on ordering yours.

Forget rope tangles and order your Huntin' Hoist today. After all, it's hunting season!

** STATE SHAPED TROPHY PLAQUES **

• Deer season is here and now is the time to order your Backwoods Bound State Shaped Trophy Plaque! Be ready for that trophy buck and order your plaque now. Add a that special touch with one of our real hardwood trophy plaques. Why buy one of those glued together sawdust plaques made overseas somewhere when you can buy a plaque made from solid oak that was handcrafted right here in the good 'ol U.S.A. Mount your trophy on something unique this year and have it stand out from the rest.

Order a Backwoods Bound State Shaped Trophy Plaque. You'll be glad you did! Remember that ALL the states and Canadian provinces are available. For more information and photos or to place your order go to www.backwoodsbound.com/catalog.html .

RECOMMEND THE BACKWOODS BOUND BULLET TO A FRIEND!

Know a friend who enjoys the outdoors as much as you do? Recommend The Bullet to them. It's easy to do, just follow this link or copy and paste the url into your browser! http://www.cumuli.com/ezines/backwo.ezine Thank you!

HUNTIN' TIPS: When deer hunting with the 'CAN' by Primos, reverse it and blow into the small hole. With soft blowing you can imitate a doe or fawn bleat. Sent in by Steady Eddie.

From John. To keep moisture out of the barrel of a shotgun or muzzleloader, use a small square of electric tape. It doesn't matter if it is on when you fire.

Send your tips to [email protected] and we will post them on the site or use them in an upcoming issue of The Bullet.

** ADVERTISE HERE! **

Place your ad here for only $6.00 an issue. Be seen by nearly 1700 potential buyers! Reduced rates for multiple issues. For more details go to www.backwoodsbound.com/advertise.html or e-mail us [email protected].

WHAT'S NEW

Due to the tremendous response we are extending our special offer of $5.00 shipping on ALL orders over $13.00 until the end of October. Orders under $13.00 ship for $0.90 to $3.95. Place an order for a Huntin Hoist and one of our Camo Hats and get them shipped to you for only $5.00! Or buy a Trophy Plaque, a Deer Window Decal and some of our Chili Seasoning Mix and save big! The more you order, the bigger the savings!

To see all of our great products go to www.backwoodsbound.com/catalog.html.

And don't forget that with all orders we will include a FREE Falcon IV Key-chain Knife by Maxam! That's a $2.99 value, ABSOLUTELY FREE! Offer good while supplies last.

We are continuing our work on the new format for The Bullet. The new format will allow us to include pictures and graphics in each issue.

And as always we need new photos, tips, recipes, fun facts and articles for the site and future issues of the Bullet. Send your stuff to: [email protected].

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INTERESTING QUOTE: Leota Simon of Burlington, Kansas sent us her favorite quote from entertainer Milton Berle. Thanks Leota.

Grammar by Milton Berle

I'd rather be a 'could be' if I cannot be a 'are'.

Because a 'could be' is a 'maybe' who is reaching for a star.

I'd rather be a 'has-been' than a 'might-have-been' by far.

For a 'might-have-been' has never been, but a 'has-been was once an 'are'.

Seen or heard an interesting or humorous quote? Send it in and we'll post them next month. Send them to: [email protected]

** TIME FOR SOME CHILI! **

The fall season can bring a chill to your bones but a pot of chili made with Backwoods Bound Chili Seasoning Mix can warm them up. Our unique blend of spices makes a perfect pot of chili everytime that the whole family can enjoy.

Available in single packets for $1.75 or get the better value with a triple pack for only $5.00. For more details and ordering information go to: www.backwoodsbound.com/chili.html.

Plus while supplies last receive a FREE Falcon IV Key-chain Knife by Maxam on ALL orders! It's a $2.99 value, ABSOLUTELY FREE!

And in case you didn't know, our Chili Seasoning Mix also makes some other tasty dishes your family will enjoy like jambalaya, tostadas, enchiladas, stuffed peppers, manicotti, Mexican lasagne and a huge favorite, chicken chili! Check out all of the great recipes at www.backwoodsbound.com/zchili.html. Order some and send us your recipe for all to enjoy.

RECIPE: - TERIYAKI GRILLED DOVE AND PEARL ONIONS

* In large bowl, place the dove breasts. Cover with teriyaki sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

* Remove the breasts and alternate them with the onions on skewers.

* Lightly sprinkle with pepper.

* Grill over high heat for 4 - 5 minutes. Turn and cook another 3 - 4 minutes or until done.

Submitted by Nathan Hunzeker. Nathan reminds us, "Remember, never waste wild game you've taken. Take pride in your hunt by preparing and eating it."

For more great dove recipes go to www.backwoodsbound.com/zdove.html.

FISHIN' TIP: - A few tips for fishing rip-rap for bass. Bass are usually attracted to large rough cut rocks more so than smaller tight fitting rocks. The fishing can be better when the rip-rap descends into deeper water. Also irregular spots such as an indentation or submerged logs can hold more bass much like a point on a channel does.

Send your tips to [email protected] and we will post them on the site or use them in an upcoming issue of The Bullet.

** ADVERTISE HERE **

Place your ad here for only $6.00 an issue. Be seen by nearly 1600 potential buyers! Reduced rates for multiple issues. Contact us at [email protected] for details.

FUN FACTS: - The only thing that can fertilize a Joshua Tree is a Yucca moth. From Robin O'Neill-Loch.

Ratna Hublee sends us these; There are about 40 different muscles in a bird's wing. There are about 5000 species of known coral. Only half of them build reefs. And from Lindsay, Coca-Cola was originally green.

For more Fun Facts visit www.backwoodsbound.com/funfacts.html.

RECIPE: - FRIED TURTLE

* Soak turtle in salt water for at least 2 hours. Drain.

* Place meat in a pressure cooker and cover with water. Add the bay leaf and pepper and seasoning salt to taste.

* Cook 35 minutes at 15lb's of pressure. Cool.

* Roll meat in your favorite fish breading.

* Pan fry like chicken in a skillet or deep fry like fish until golden brown.

Our thanks go to Shotgun Blues for sending in this recipe. Go to www.backwoodsbound.com/zturtle.html for more recipes. Send yours to [email protected]