Nebraska Hunting Outfitters

Snow Goose: Early Spring Waterfowl

2011-02-02T09:19:00.000-08:00

Snow Goose Hunting in Late Winter and Early Spring

WHITE OUT: Atlantic Flyway population studies indicate that between the mid 1960s and now, snow goose numbers grew from an estimated 50,000 to more than one million. Officials predict that by the middle of the next decade, roughly two million snowies might compete for limited space, doubling in current size. (Delta Waterfowl media photo)

By Steve Hickoff

The so-called regular waterfowl seasons may be over, but don’t put your gear away just yet. Clean it, for sure, but keep it ready to roll . . .

In the heavily human-populated Atlantic Flyway where I write this — and elsewhere around the United States — it’s not just humankind competing for space. Snow goose numbers are at all-time highs, migration time depending.

That’s good news for hunters. In late-winter and early-spring you can jumpstart your waterfowl season, extending it into spring turkey time.

Snow goose numbers exceed available food and habitat in many areas. As a result, federal and state wildlife management organizations now offer expanded seasons for these waterfowl in many locations. By conservation order, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has specifically mandated this effort to control growing numbers.

Though they’re hunted elsewhere, eight states in the Atlantic Flyway were open last year under the “conservation order” for late-winter and early-spring snow goose hunting. These included North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland and Delaware to the south, and New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York and Vermont to the north. Check your current regulations as changes may appear there.

More geese? Waterfowl hunters couldn’t be happier. So how do you hunt them?

First check to see if your state offers a late-winter or early-spring season. Many do.

Once licenses, permits and stamps are secured, assess your waterfowling gear. You may need to amp up your decoy holdings with snow goose fakes. Shells and full-body options are widely available for this growing sport.

As with real estate, location is everything. Scout for these so-called “light geese” in agricultural haunts. Gain permission from landowners to hunt these spots. Be there before dawn the next morning to set your spread of dekes.

Huddled in a layout blind, snow goose calls on a lanyard around your neck, non-toxic loads chambered in your shotgun, you’re ready to roll.

Some other tips to hunting these light geese include:

Your effort to find them might begin where they roost, and include locating a nearby field where they feed and/or might forage. Study them for a pattern of use. They’ll often move and feed early in the day and later in the afternoon, loafing elsewhere during midday. Sometimes too they just move on.

Study maps, drive and glass fields, and seek landowner permission at all costs, explaining what you’ll be doing and even why. Set your spread at midday for later afternoon hunts. If it feels right, get back there the next morning too. Don’t pressure a spot; then again, hunt it while it’s hot and even just a little warm.

As camouflage goes, wear white if snow covers the ground, or standard options if you’re in a layout blind or using natural cover. Blend in, no matter what. Snowies feel the pressure, and adjust accordingly. If possible, hide all unnatural evidence, including your truck, trailer and four-wheeler. Make it look real.

Spreads should consist of as many snow goose decoys as possible. Full body snows, shell fakes, and silhouettes should round off your presentation. It’s not unusual for a hardcore snow goose hunter to place several hundred to even 1,000 or more decoys out in a field, and even use wing flags to impart movement to the spread.

Snow Goose Action

Nebraska's Outdoor Activities for February

2011-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

LINCOLN, Neb. – The following is a listing of Nebraska Game and Parks Commission events and activities in February:

Feb. 1 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Holdrege

Feb. 1 – District IV Waterfowl Meeting, North Platte

Feb. 2 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Gothenburg

Feb. 3 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Burwell

Feb. 3 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Sumner

Feb. 3, 5, 10, 12 – Firearm hunter education class, Grand Island
Feb. 4 – Dark goose hunting season closes in Niobrara Unit

Feb. 5-6 – White-fronted goose hunting season

Feb. 5-6 – Bow hunter education class, Crawford

Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 – Firearm hunter education class, Hay Springs

Feb. 6, 13 – Bow hunter education class, Wilber

Feb. 8 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, St. Paul

Feb. 8 – Boater education home study review and test, Grand Island

Feb. 8, 10, 12 – Firearm hunter education class, Ceresco

Feb. 9 – Dark goose hunting season closes in Platte River and Panhandle units

Feb. 9 – Statewide light goose hunting season closes

Feb. 9 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, McCook

Feb. 9 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Geneva

Feb. 10 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Greeley

Feb. 10 – Light Goose Conservation Action begins

Feb. 10-14 – Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Feb. 11-12 – Firearm hunter education class, Beatrice

Feb. 12, 15, 17 – Bow hunter education class, Ceresco

Feb. 15 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Niobrara State Park

Feb. 15 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Ravenna

Feb. 15, 17, 22, 24 – Firearm hunter education class, Grand Island

Feb. 17 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, Denton

Feb. 17, 19, 24, 26 – Firearm hunter education class, Grand Island

Feb. 18-20 – Beyond Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Ice-Fishing Workshop, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge

Feb. 19 – Boater education class, Omaha

Feb. 19-20 – Beyond Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Snowshoeing Trip, Platte River State Park

Feb. 23 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, David City

Feb. 23 – Prescribed Burn Training Workshop, West Point

Feb. 24 – Boater education home study review and test, Grand Island

Feb. 27 – Cowboy Poetry and Music Jam, Arthur Bowring Sandhills Ranch State Historical Park

Feb. 28 – Hunting and trapping seasons close for bobcat, raccoon, Virginia opossum, long-tailed weasel, mink, red fox, gray fox, and badger

Feb. 28 – Hunting seasons close for cottontail and jackrabbit

For more details, visit OutdoorNebraska.org and click on the Calendar link, or go to: http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov/education.asp.

Nebraska Extends Grouse Season, Focus on Pheasant

2011-01-25T06:26:00.000-08:00

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners on Friday voted to expand the grouse-hunting season starting in 2011.

This year’s grouse season will be Sept. 1 through Jan. 31, 2012. Regulations previously called for the season to open on the Saturday nearest Sept. 15.

By making the change, Game and Parks is providing more hunting opportunity for a lightly hunted species and is aligning the dove and grouse season openers on a common date.

The board also approved a revised Focus on Pheasants plan. The plan seeks to create new focus areas and incentive programs to promote habitat improvements and to work with biologists to maximize effectiveness of habitat program delivery within those areas. Also, the plan hopes to continue researching the amount of habitat needed to establish and maintain a huntable pheasant population, and it will try to secure more pheasant habitat through U.S. Department of Agriculture conservation programs.

Commissioners also approved the funding of $254,383.60 for eight grants through the State Wildlife Grant (SWG) program, which addresses the needs of declining fish and wildlife populations. Game and Parks allocates part of its annual SWG funding, distributed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to other conservation entities on a competitive basis, with awardees required to provide a one-to-one match. The awarded projects must be deemed a priority in assisting Game and Parks in implementing the Nebraska Natural Legacy Plan.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Activities

2011-01-10T16:43:00.000-08:00

© 2011 Scott Croner and
Nebraska Hunting Company™

LINCOLN, Neb. – The following is a listing of Nebraska Game and Parks Commission events and activities in January:

Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day Buffet, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Jan. 2 – Duck hunting season closes in Low Plains Late Unit

Jan. 2 – First segment of light goose hunting season closes

Jan. 8-9 – DeSoto muzzleloader deer hunting season

Jan. 10 – Spring turkey hunting permits available for purchase beginning at 1 p.m. Central Time

Jan. 10 – Youth fishing instructor training, Alliance

Jan. 12 – Duck hunting season closes in High Plains Unit

Jan. 12 – Venison sausage-making workshop, Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium

Jan. 13 – Youth fishing instructor training, Fullerton

Jan. 14 – Beyond Becoming an Outdoors-Woman scuba workshop, Lincoln

Jan. 16 – First segment of dark goose hunting season closes in Platte River and Panhandle units

Jan. 18 – Season Choice, landowner and youth deer hunting seasons close

Jan. 19 – Special crow hunting season closes

Jan. 20 – Regular crow hunting season opens

Jan. 21 – Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners meeting, Lincoln

Jan. 21 – Dark goose hunting season closes in North Central Unit

Jan. 21-23 – River City Hunting and Fishing Expo, Mid-America Center, Council Bluffs, Iowa

Jan. 21-23 – Beyond Becoming and Outdoors-Woman small game hunt, Keith County

Jan. 22 – Second segment of light goose hunting season opens

Jan. 22 – Second segment of dark goose hunting season opens in Platte River and Panhandle units

Jan. 22 – Youth fishing instructor training, Denton

Jan. 26 – Dark goose hunting season closes in East Unit

Jan. 28-30 – Pheasant Fest trade show, Qwest Center, Omaha

Jan. 31 – Squirrel hunting season closes

Jan. 31 – Grouse hunting season closes

Jan. 31 – Pheasant, quail and partridge seasons close

For more information, contact Game and Parks at (402) 471-0641 or visit OutdoorNebraska.org.

Best to you,
Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Ellis Scores On A Big 8 With Scott Croner And The Nebraska Hunting Company

2010-12-29T18:56:00.000-08:00

After going Merriam's turkey hunting with Scott Croner in May and tagging out I knew I had to go on a deer hunt with him when the opportunity came up. I booked my deer hunt for muzzleloader season the second week in December. After talking to Scott several times on the phone before I arrived I was very excited about what he was telling me he had been seeing. I arrived in Nebraska City mid afternoon and was greeted by Scott. He took me to a spot on the edge of a soybean field and said he had been seeing a 140-150 class buck in the area along with some 130 class bucks. Two hours later I caught a glimpse of a big buck walking a ridge across from me. I grunted and he turned and walked right towards me. I guess buck fever set in because I made a bad shot and hit him in the gut. Scott and I blood trailed him for a little while that evening but decided to back out when we ran out of blood and lost light. The next morning I was happy to see Scott had two other people with him to help us find the deer. It took us about an hour and we found him the biggest buck I've ever taken a 144" 8-pointer. I've hunted with 6 different outfitters in my life and Scott Croner is the best I have hunted with. I already have a deer hunt booked for next deer season and plan on booking many more.

Ellis, Villa Rica, Georgia

Merriam's Turkey Hunting: 2010 Spring Turkey - Biggest Season Ever

2010-12-16T10:35:00.000-08:00

Get ready for the
2011 Spring Merriam's Turkey Season!

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to remind everyone about the awesome 2010 Spring Turkey season we had hunting Merriam's Turkey. This was as close to a guaranteed hunt as we can offer! We scout year-round, providing our clients with the best opportunity to bag their Merriam's Turkey!

Merriam's Turkey Hunting: 2010 Spring Turkey - Biggest Season Ever

Best to you,
Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Nebraska Telechek Out of Service

2010-12-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

Scott Croner and
Nebraska Hunting Company™

Nebraska Telecheck Will Be Out of Service December 18

LINCOLN, Neb. - Deer and antelope hunters will be unable to electronically check their game for a period of time on December 18, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The company that provides the Telecheck electronic checking service to Game and Parks is taking the system down for maintenance from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on that day.

"We suggest hunters wait until later in the day, like after 6 p.m., or wait until the next day to check their game," said Kit Hams, big game program manager with Game and Parks.

Best to you,
Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Record Whitetail Harvest in Nebraska!

2010-12-05T08:30:00.001-08:00

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska’s November firearm deer harvest set a record this fall, rising 18 percent over last year, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The 2010 November firearm deer harvest was 63,300, compared to 53,767 in 2009. Most of the increase is from antlerless white-tailed deer harvest, as 21,000 bonus antlerless white-tailed deer tags were added this year.

Good weather benefited hunters and farmers as the corn harvest was nearly complete at the start of the November firearm season, compared to 2009 when more than half of the crop was still in the field at the start of the season.

The following are harvest figures for each region of the state, with the percentage increase from 2009:

Panhandle (District I) – 6,580, 9 percent; north-central (District II) – 11,885, 13 percent; northeast (District III) – 13,791, 32 percent; southwest (District IV) – 7,042, 20 percent; southeast (District V) – 13,709, 11 percent; and south-central (District VI) – 10,325, 13 percent.

“This is a good step toward our goal of a 25-percent reduction in the deer herd in eastern Nebraska over the next 3 years,” said Kit Hams, big game program manager for Game and Parks. “The use of Earn-a-Buck rules on Elkhorn and Wahoo permits and the October firearm antlerless season (3,000 deer harvested) in 2010 have both been successful in increasing doe harvest.”

Earn-a-Buck rules required hunters to check in an antlerless deer before or at the same time they checked a buck.

Assuming normal harvest rates during archery, muzzleloader and January antlerless seasons, hunters should harvest about 90,000 deer in Nebraska for the 2010 seasons, compared to the previous record of 80,400 in 2008 and 78,000 last year.

Nebraska has enjoyed excellent deer hunting the past three years, with record harvest numbers and record deer. A state record nontypical white-tailed deer was taken last year in Richardson County. A potential state record typical white-tailed deer was harvested this November north of Seward.

Best to you,
Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Hunting Bastards: Osterholt Scams: Sue Kowzlowski or Mark Rommel Osterholt?Osterholt Scams: Sue Kowzlowski or Mark Rommel Osterholt?Albert A Rasch In Afghanistan™Albert A Rasch Scott Croner, Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Scott Croner

The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: After the Shot, Tracking and Trailing

2010-12-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

© 2010 Scott Croner and
Nebraska Hunting Company™

So you have taken your shot, waited the as long as you could, went to where your sure your Whitetail fell, and he's not there! What do you do?

Our friend and fellow sportsman, Albert A Rasch, has an instructive post on his blog The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles on tracking and trailing.

His post, The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: After the Shot, Tracking and Trailing is a great primer and sure to get you off on the right track... so to speak!

Albert has told me that he is working on an updated post on tracking animals, and is looking forward to putting the finishing touches on it and sharing it with us.

See Albert Rasch at:

Best to you,
Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Albert A Rasch
Spoons: They're Not Just for Cereal!The Range Reviews: AGI Armorer's Course 1911 Auto Boar Hunting Calibers: Part I

Last Chance Buck: Hunting Nebraska's Whitetail Deer

2010-11-23T08:37:00.000-08:00

is the one you give someone else."

It was late in the day, and light was fading fast. The dried leaves and stalks of the worked over soybeean field rustled in the Northeasterly breeze.

I asked her to please take the shot, but being the good and ethical hunter she is, Tori would not. "I just can't get a good sight on him!"

We had been at that particular field for a short time, nestled against a tree in a low hollow that gave us Tori and I a good view of the soybean field in front of us, and some protection from the breeze.

It was late in the afternoon when the first buck appeared. A good sized spike came into view on our left, working a scrape line in a ditch bordering the soybean. As he got closer, we could see that he had all of the hallmarks of making himself a big deer. If he kept his wits about him, managed to survive the next three or four yaers, he would be a bruiser.

Suddenly, the spike was alert. His ears swiveled forward concentrating all sounds. We caefully looked in the same direction, which was somewhere between us and the spike.

"There!" I whispered.

Another big bodied whitetail buck was stepping between the laurels and brush, his nose to the ground.

The young spike stood his ground as the forkhorn, still one hundred yards away, paused at the edge of the wind blown field, the cold breeze ruffling his fur.

I debated whether we should take the fork or not. It started out into the soybean.

I carefully raised the call to my lips. The plastic was cold. A quick snort followed by a wheeze brought him to a standstill.

That's when Tori with her young sharp eyes spotted him.

Whispering excitededly she said, "Look over there! Across from us!" Yes, right there I caught some motion between two cottonwoods. Almost two hundred yards away I could make out yet another deer, this one with heavy antlers. I carefully put him in my scope, wary of all the other eyes in the field. He was bigger than I expected.

I told Tori to pick him up in her scope and get ready.

The forkhorn was now making his way towards our hidden spot, while the spike stood his ground unsure of what he should do.

It was time. I asked Tori to shoot, the light was fading, the forkhorn was intent on joining us for coffee or stepping on us, and the spike was stomping his foot.

"I can't!" She whispered, "I just can't get him in my sights. You take him!"

Again I hesitated. "Are you sure?"

Her urgent response was, "No Mr Scott, you shoot!"

The crosshairs found their mark. I gently squeezed the trigger, the recoil pulling the buck out of view. The spike and forkhorn bolted in opposite directions as the roar of the rifle echoed off the trees.

As I pulled the rifle back into place and worked the bolt, I heard Tori exclaim, "He's down! He's down!" I scanned the ground with my scope, but I didn't see anything.

I was nervous, it was a quartering away shot, one of the most difficult ones to make, especially at a distance.

"Let's wait awhile..."

So we sat there and watched the sun as it slowly hid behind the trees.

There wasn't much time left before the sun set true and well, so we left our concealed spot, and hurried to the tree I had marked him by.

As we carefully approached the spot, I kept Tori slightly behind me. I pushed a round into the chamber, my thumb on the safety.

The grayish brown coat stood in contrast to the reddish brown of the leaves on the ground. He was down.

Tori was ecstatic at recovering the deer. It was several hours later when I finally got him hung up and gutted. His estimated weight by tape, was aproximately 300 lbs! He will score right at 150, once the rack has had time to dry.

I was shooting my Browning A-bolt in 300 Winchester Magnum, with 150 grain Remington Cor Lokt.

As I mentioned earlier, I was worried about the shot, and I was right to be concerned. The bullet entered behind the ribs, slicing through the liver, and punching into the stomach. That in and of itself was not a bad thing, considering the angle. But the Core Lokt didn't hold together. Vegetable matter stopped the bullet forcing it apart.

The bullet disintergrated without exiting the stomach. If it had continued in the line it was traveling, it would have clipped the heart and damaged the lungs. A premium grade ammunition would have been preferable, something like the Swift A-Frame used in Remington's premium line.

On the positive side, we followed my instincts and waited before following up on the deer. Had we pushed him, he might have gone a couple of miles before expiring.

Best to you,
Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Deer Exchange Helps the Less Fortunate!

2010-09-04T05:32:00.000-07:00

© 2010 Scott Croner™ and
Nebraska Hunting Company

From the Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners:

LINCOLN, Neb. - Hunters again will be able to provide deer meat to anyone willing to accept it, thanks to a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission program.

Nebraska has an ample deer population, as well as many hunting opportunities. The Deer Exchange is designed to accommodate the additional harvest of deer. Hunters who have filled their freezers may still bag a deer and have somewhere to take the meat.

Deer Exchange participants may register by visiting OutdoorNebraska.org, and then selecting Hunting, Programs, and then the Deer Exchange Program link.

Here is how the free program, which runs through March 1, 2011, works: Donors and recipients of deer meat register, search a database for participants in their area, and then make contact by telephone to set up the transfer of deer meat. Deer meat may not be sold.

The recipient may accept field dressed deer, skinned and boned deer, or wrapped and frozen deer meat. The donor is responsible for properly field dressing and checking the deer before transfer.

Game and Parks is not responsible for the quality of the meat or failure of the donor or recipient to follow through with the transfer. The agency provides the necessary transfer cards online.

Other benefits of the program include:

-- Venison is a good source of protein in a diet.

-- The interaction increases communication between hunters and non-hunters.

-- Opportunities exist to recruit new hunters.

Contact:
Jerry Kane jerry.kane@nebraska.gov

Best to you,
Scott Croner™
Nebraska Hunting Company

Nebraska Commissioners Adopt Waterfowl Regulations

2010-09-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

© 2010 Scott Croner™ and
Nebraska Hunting Company

From the Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners:

LINCOLN, Neb. - The Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners approved 2010 waterfowl hunting regulations Tuesday, Aug. 31 at its meeting at Lake McConaughy near Ogallala.

Waterfowl hunting begins Sept. 4 with the opening of the early teal and Canada goose seasons.

The waterfowl seasons are:

Early Teal - Low Plains, Sept. 4-19; High Plains, Sept. 4-12; bag limit, four; possession limit, eight

Early Canada Goose - Sept. 4-12; bag limit, eight; possession limit, 16

Youth Waterfowl - Sept. 25-26; bag and possession limits same as duck

Duck and Coot - Low Plains Early, Oct. 2-Dec. 12 and Dec. 18-19; Low Plains Late, Oct. 16-17 and Oct. 23-Jan. 2, 2011; High Plains, Oct. 9-Jan. 12, 2011; bag limit, conventional; possession limit, twice the daily bag

Dark Goose - East Unit, Oct. 23-Jan. 26, 2011; North Central Unit, Oct. 9-Jan. 21, 2011; Platte River Unit, Oct. 23-Jan. 16, 2011 and Jan. 22-Feb. 9, 2011; Panhandle Unit, Oct. 23-Jan. 16, 2011 and Jan. 22-Feb. 9, 2011; Niobrara Unit, Oct. 23-Feb. 4, 2011; bag limit, three; possession limit, twice the daily bag

White-fronted Goose (statewide) - Oct. 9-Dec. 17 and Feb. 5-6, 2011; bag limit, two (one on Feb. 5-6); possession limit, twice the daily bag

Light Goose - Regular Season (statewide), Oct. 9-Jan. 2, 2011 and Jan. 22-Feb. 9, 2011; bag limit, 20; possession limit, none. Conservation Action, Zone 1: Feb. 10-April 17, 2011; Zone 2: Feb. 10-April 1, 2011; Zone 3: Feb. 10-April 17, 2011; no bag or possession limits

Crow - Statewide, Oct. 1-Nov. 15 and Jan. 20-April 6, 2011; Special Public Health Hazard Order (Buffalo, Kearney, Franklin, Phelps, Harlan, Dawson, and Lincoln counties only), Nov. 16-Jan. 19, 2011

Falconry - Extended season: Low Plains, Sept. 1-30 and concurrent with teal season dates within Low Plains Early and Late zones; High Plains: Concurrent with teal season dates within the High Plains zone; Regular season - Low Plains Early, Oct. 2-Dec. 12 and Dec. 18-19; Low Plains Late, Oct. 16-17 and Oct. 23-Jan. 2, 2011; High Plains, Oct. 9-Jan. 12, 2011

In other action, the board tabled proposed amendments to fishing regulations for 2011-2012.

The board also approved changes to the Open Fields and Waters Program. Changes include a sign-on bonus, new rate for hunting access to woodland along rivers and new rates for spring turkey and ice-fishing access. The program is designed to expand hunter and angler access to private lands.

Also, the board:

-- approved some hunting, with restrictions, at Niobrara, Ponca, Indian Cave, Eugene T. Mahoney, and Platte River state parks, as well as Fort Atkinson State Historical Park.

-- approved the Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plan. The plan's purpose is to provide the state's natural resource managers a framework for dealing with aquatic nuisance species.

-- approved wildlife regulations allowing for the year-round hunting of the Eurasian collared dove. The mourning and white-winged dove still may be hunted Sept. 1 through Oct. 30.

Best to you,
Scott Croner™
Snake Hunting!
Nebraska Hunting Company

The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: A Chronicles' Project: Sleeping Bag Care

2010-08-29T05:09:00.000-07:00

© 2010 Scott Croner™ and
Nebraska Hunting Company

Here is a great post on sleeping bag care from the Rasch Outdoor Chronicles:
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: A Chronicles' Project: Sleeping Bag Care

Great reminder now that Fall is fast approaching!

Best to you,
Scott Croner™
Snake Hunting!
Nebraska Hunting Company

Hunting Bastards: Osterholt Scams: Sue Kowzlowski or Mark Rommel Osterholt?Osterholt Scams: Sue Kowzlowski or Mark Rommel Osterholt?Albert A Rasch In Afghanistan™Albert A Rasch Scott Croner, Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Scott Croner

Keep Nebraska Clean: Dispose of Litter

2010-08-13T02:37:00.000-07:00

Keep Nebraska Clean: Dispose of Litter

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission forwarded the following to me:

As fall approaches, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds hunters and anglers to act responsibly and avoid littering. Disposing of litter is a way everyone may gain a sense of ownership of Nebraska's outdoors. Nebraskans can ensure future generations will have clean hunting lands, parks and waters to enjoy.

Litter is unsightly, pollutes water and landscape, and can be fatal to fish and wildlife. In addition, hunters and anglers who litter on private, walk-in-only sites risk having landowners remove their acres from access programs. The following are some suggestions from Game and Parks for keeping land and water clean:

Leave only your footprints - Properly discard trash when camping, fishing, hunting, or hiking.
Parks have trash containers, but the lack of a container in a more remote spot is no reason to litter - pack it out with you.
Recycle trash - Take the aluminum cans, plastic bottles and paper home with you to recycle.
Recycle fishing line - Bins specifically designated for these purposes are located at many eastern Nebraska lakes and sporting goods stores.
Reuse - Do not leave spent shotgun shells behind. Consider reloading them.
Pick it up - If you see trash, pick it up and dispose of it. Take a plastic garbage bag with you when you visit a park or lake and clean up what you can.
Set an example - Doing any of the above items will set a good example. Maybe someone will notice and help. And don't forget to teach children why they should not litter.

Best to you,
Scott Croner™
Nebraska Hunting Company
Phone: 402 304 1192
Email: scott@nebraskahunting.net

Nebraska Super Tag Hunting Lottery Winner!

2010-08-02T04:45:00.000-07:00

Leo Benes of Firth, Nebraska, is The winner of Nebraska's new super tag hunting lottery.

Benes won the four-species hunting permit on Thursday morning.

Benes, who is also the Battalion Chief for Lincoln Fire and Rescue says he's very excited about winning. He said he signed up for the lottery when he went to apply for a normal deer permit, but accidently applied for the Super Tag! Now that was a great mistake!

He will be allowed to hunt one Elk, one Deer, one Antelope and two Turkeys throughout the 2010 and 2011 seasons.

A total of 1,714 persons entered the lottery says the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and the program raised $42,850 for the commission. The cost of each entry was $25.

Nebraska 2010 Deer Hunting Season

2010-07-31T02:08:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends,

With six weeks to go, it's time to start preparing for Deer Hunting Season.

Here are the dates to remember!

2010 Deer Hunting Seasons

Archery – Sept. 15-Nov. 12 and Nov. 22-Dec. 31

Mule Deer Conservation Area – Sept. 15-Dec. 31

October Antlerless (any weapon) – Oct. 2-11
This is a new season from Oct. 2 to 11 for antlerless deer only. Hunters will be allowed to use any legal weapon and buy an unlimited number of permits for $10 each.That is a discount of $20!

November Firearm – Nov. 13-21

Earn-a-Buck November Firearm (Wahoo and Elkhorn units) – Nov. 13-23
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will require hunters in the Elkhorn and Wahoo units of eastern Nebraska to kill a doe before killing a buck.

Muzzleloader – Dec. 1-31

Season Choice (antlerless) – Sept. 15-Jan. 18, 2011 with bow; Dec. 1-31 with muzzleloader and Nov. 13-21 and Dec. 26-Jan. 18, 2011 with firearm

Youth and Landowner – Sept. 15-Dec. 31 with bow; Dec. 1-31 with muzzleloader; Nov. 13-21 with firearm; and Dec. 26-Jan. 18, 2011 (antlerless only) with bow or firearm

DeSoto Muzzleloader – Oct. 16-17; Oct. 30-31; Dec. 11-12; and Jan. 8-9, 2011

Boyer Chute – Oct. 23-24; Nov. 20-21 and Dec. 18-19

And remember, nine out of every 10 permits in 2010 will include a free antlerless-only bonus tag! What a bargain!

The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: Hunting Snow Goose: Tips and Techniques

2010-07-01T02:10:00.000-07:00

Hunting friends,

Outdoor Blogger Albert Rasch at The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles, has written a great piece on Snow Goose hunting, one of our specialties here at Nebraska Hunting Company.

The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: Hunting Snow Goose: Tips and Techniques

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions on Snow Goose hunting!

Best to you,
Scott Croner™
Nebraska Hunting Company
Phone: 402 304 1192
Email: scott@nebraskahunting.net

Hunting Bastards: HuntReport.com

2010-05-30T02:44:00.000-07:00

Mark Osterholt's Cupidfish.com has met its match with these fellows after him!

Hunting Bastards: HuntReport.com

Turkey Hunting Seminar, and Youth Hunting Permits!

2010-04-02T15:48:00.000-07:00

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission:

LINCOLN, Neb. – A turkey hunting seminar is scheduled for April 14 at the Lincoln Izaak Walton League, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The 6 p.m. event is open to the first 100 registrants.

Before the seminar, participants may pattern their shotgun and tune up their turkey calls from 4:30-6 p.m. They should bring their shotgun, at least five rounds of their favorite turkey load and their favorite turkey call.

To register, contact Heather Weihe at heather.weihe@nebraska.gov.

Turkey hunting season begins March 25 for archers and youth archers. Hunters under age 16 may take advantage of the new $5 youth turkey permits when the season opens March 25, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The season opens April 17 for shotgunners and April 10 for youth shotgunners. All spring turkey seasons close May 31.

In the past, youth hunters paid the same price as adults for a turkey permit. The new low-cost permits are designed to attract more youth to turkey hunting. The youth permits are for hunters under age 16 on the opening day of the youth archery season. All turkey hunters, except residents under age 16, require a Nebraska Habitat Stamp.

The 2010 permit prices, not including issuing fees, are: resident turkey, $23; resident youth turkey, $5; nonresident turkey, $90; and nonresident youth turkey, $5.

There is another permit change for 2010. In the past, spring hunters who wanted to hunt turkeys with a bow and shotgun had to purchase separate archery and shotguns permits. Those hunters now need just a single turkey permit, which allows taking turkeys with a bow in the archery season and a shotgun in the shotgun season.

Also new for 2010, restrictions on draw weight of archery equipment have been lifted.
A hunter still may have up to three spring turkey permits. The bag limit is one male or bearded female turkey per permit.

Permits may be purchased at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Just a quick note to keep you informed!

Good Hunting!
Scott

Merriam's Spring Turkey Hunting - 2010

2010-03-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

Spring Turkey Season starts April 17, 2010

Merriam's Spring Turkey Hunt 2009

2009-12-10T07:56:00.000-08:00

Wow! This gobbler wants no one else in his strut zone.

Mountain Lions in Nebraska

2009-09-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – With an increase in confirmed mountain lion sightings in the Panhandle in recent years, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission wants to ensure people are aware of its policies regarding the cats.

“Mountain lions are native to Nebraska, but to ensure the species be secure in Nebraska over the long term, the Commission recognizes that mountain lions that depredate on livestock, threaten humans or enter towns should be killed,” Commission Director Rex Amack said. “Mountain lions that are not interacting with humans or livestock are fully protected by law.”

State Sen. LeRoy Louden of Ellsworth is aware of mountain lion sightings in his area. He represents District 49, which includes the northern Panhandle and part of the western Sandhills.
“There are reports confirmed by the Commission and pictures of mountain lions in the area that are published in newspapers,” Louden said. “I want citizens to know they have the right to defend themselves, family and property against mountain lions.”

Map of Mountain Lion Sightings in Nebraska

The following are facts and Commission policies from the Mountain Lion Response Plan:
-- A mountain lion may be destroyed by a landowner if it attacks or attempts to attack livestock.
-- People may defend themselves by killing a mountain lion if it attacks or shows aggression toward them.
-- If a landowner believes livestock has been killed or injured by a mountain lion, the scene should be left undisturbed and the Commission contacted immediately.
-- If evidence of depredation by a mountain lion exists and a landowner wants action, an attempt will by made to prevent further damage by killing the mountain lion.
-- An attempt will be made by the Commission or local law enforcement to kill a mountain lion that is confirmed to be within town limits.
-- Anyone who kills a mountain lion for any reason must contact the Commission immediately and surrender the carcass.
-- By law, a mountain lion will be left undisturbed if it is not threatening people and has not caused depredation.

Anyone who observes a mountain lion should contact the nearest Commission office or call (402) 471-0641.

Hunting Bastards: Osterholt Scams: Sue Kowzlowski or Mark Rommel Osterholt?Osterholt Scams: Sue Kowzlowski or Mark Rommel Osterholt?Albert A Rasch In Afghanistan™Albert A Rasch Scott Croner, Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Scott Croner

Archery Season Starts September 15th

2009-09-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

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The Independent

Nebraska bowhunters, with bonus tags in tow, will take to the woods Sept. 15 for the opening of the archery deer hunting season.

Those bonus tags were added to statewide archery permits in 2008. Bowhunters responded by taking a record 7,440 deer last year, up from 4,854 in 2007.

The archery season is not the only one to open Sept. 15. Landowner, youth and season choice seasons also begin.

"We encourage all archers to use their bonus antlerless whitetail tags to help with the control of white-tailed deer," said Kit Hams, big game program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. "The Deer Exchange is available to those with too many deer for their own use." Visit OutdoorNebraska.org for more information on the Deer Exchange.

The following is a summary of the seasons that open Sept. 15:
Archery - Season: Sept. 15-Nov. 13 and Nov. 23-Dec. 31; Open to: residents and nonresidents; Permit: residents, $30; nonresidents, $209; Hunting Area: statewide; Bag Limit: one deer of either sex, plus one antlerless whitetail; Weapon: longbows or compound bows that have a pull of at least 40 pounds at or before 28-inch draw.

Landowner - Season: Sept. 15-Jan. 15. 2010; Open to: residents and nonresidents; Permit: residents, $15.50, nonresidents, $105; Hunting Area: land owned or operated by the landowner and described on application; Bag Limit: one deer of either sex and one antlerless deer; Weapon: any legal weapon, provided the season is open for that weapon; Note: January season is antlerless only. Landowners in Season Choice Areas 18 and 21 also may hunt on their land with a firearm during the October Antlerless season, Oct. 9-11.

Youth - Season: Sept. 15-Jan. 15, 2010; Open to: residents and nonresidents ages 10-15; Permit: residents, $30; nonresidents, $209; Hunting Area: statewide; Bag Limit: one deer of either sex and one antlerless whitetail; Weapon: any legal weapon, provided the season is open for that weapon; Notes: January season is antlerless-only; youth age 16 may hunt with a youth permit provided they are 15 when they purchased the permit and not older than 15 on Sept. 15. Youth also may hunt in Season Choice Areas 18 and 21 during the October Antlerless season, Oct. 9-11.

Season Choice - Season: Sept. 15-Jan. 15, 2010; Open to: residents and nonresidents; Permit: residents, $30; nonresidents, $55; Hunting Area: permit only valid in area for which it was issued; Bag Limit: depends on area; Weapon: any legal weapon, provided the season is open for that weapon; Notes: January season is antlerless-only. Season Choice Area 18 and 21 permit holders also may hunt during the October Antlerless season, Oct. 9-11.

Holders of permits for landowner, youth and season choice seasons may hunt with:

Legal archery equipment Sept. 15-Nov. 13 and Nov. 23-Dec. 31,
Legal muzzleloaders Dec. 1-31,
Legal firearms Nov. 14-22,
Legal firearms Jan. 1-15, 2010 (antlerless only).

Permits may be purchased at Commission offices and at http://www.OutdoorNebraska.org. A habitat stamp is required of all deer hunters, except residents age 15 or younger.

Fall Turkey Hunting Season Opens Sept. 15

2009-09-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

The Independent

Fall Turkey Hunting Season Opens Sept. 15

Get ready turkey hunters; it is going to be a long season. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission wants to remind those hunters used to an October opening that the fall season begins Sept. 15.

From Sept. 15-Dec. 31, holders of fall turkey hunting permits may pursue gobblers using either shotgun or archery equipment. Also, there is no need to suspend the hunt in November. They may hunt turkeys during the November firearm deer season, although they must wear at least 400 square inches of hunter orange on their head, chest and back during the November firearm deer season.

The longer season and hunting in November are the two biggest changes to fall turkey hunting in 2009.

No longer are there separate archery and shotgun fall seasons, with permits required for each respective weapon. Hunters only need to purchase a fall turkey hunting permit, then may harvest turkeys with either equipment.

In 2008, 11,335 fall turkey permits were sold and 8,775 birds were taken. Those numbers are expected to increase dramatically this year due to the large population of birds and the liberalized season.

“Fall turkey population numbers should be outstanding,” according to Kit Hams, big game program manager for the Commission.

“We have a record adult population and good spring weather resulted in big increases in the Summer Rural Mail Carrier Survey,” he said. “The summer survey results were up 40 percent from 2008 and up 230 percent from 2002. The Panhandle and central Nebraska regions increased the most, but all regions showed an increase in turkey numbers. In general, the number of birds should be the best we’ve ever seen in most areas.”

Fall turkey permits allow the harvest of two birds of either sex and are valid statewide. Nebraska turkey permits costs $24 for residents, $91 for nonresidents, and up to two fall permits per hunter can be purchased online or at any Commission office. Shooting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

For more information about turkey hunting regulations in Nebraska, go to OutdoorNebraska.org or pick up a copy of the 2009 Spring and Fall Turkey Hunting Seasons pamphlet, available at Commission offices and permit vendors across the state.

Canadian Geese Prospects in South Dakota

2009-09-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

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People just don't realize how much work we outfitters put in during the summer months! I've been busy getting leases and concessions ready, blinds need up-keep, scouting is a year round operation, plus we all know what family is like. We sure would like to add more information here at the blog, and we are going to try our hardest to be more proactive, and keep you up to date.

Well, my neighbors up north in South Dakota forwarded the following prognostication of the Canadian Goose season. Myself, I am getting ready for deer, turkey, and then Snow Goose, for which we will have another incredible season!

"With the early Canada goose season approaching, Game, Fish and Parks Department officials are predicting excellent hunting throughout eastern South Dakota.

“Hunters should be able to find plenty of birds,” said GFP Region 4 Wildlife Manager Scott Lindgren. “With the water and habitat conditions around the area, geese have had an exceptional year.”

While hunting opportunities will be good for hunters, area farmers have additional concerns and challenges with the increased population of resident Canada geese, in particular damage to soybean fields.

“We have had farmers calling our office with depredation complaints,” said Lindgren. “We are hoping sportsmen will assist with curtailing future depredation by taking advantage of the Early Fall Canada goose season.”

Lindgren said that most of the geese shot in the September season are resident geese and the ones that have been causing depredation on agriculture crops. “Hunters are the best way to control their population. By October, northeastern South Dakota begins seeing more migrant Canada geese; they are not the ones causing the depredation.”

Hunting early Canada geese is no easy task however. “Most of the hunting pressure occurs opening weekend and this can be the most difficult time to get permission to hunt private land,” said Lindgren. “Access is much better after the first week and hunting gets very good in the middle of September. Even though we have high numbers of geese in all of northeastern South Dakota, scouting is still the key. Plenty of geese use public hunting areas for resting areas, so they can be good as well.”

The GFP has also added some special waterfowl access areas in Day and Marshall Counties to help waterfowl hunters gain access in high depredation areas. These areas are in the 2009 Walk In Area Atlas, which will be available this week, or for more information call the Webster GFP office at 345-3381.

Licenses are available for nonresidents for $45, are valid for the entire September season and can be purchased by mail, online at http://www.sdgfp.info/licenses.htm, at the Sportsman’s Cove in Webster, or the Cowboy 2 in Watertown at the junction of highways 212 and 81. Non-residents will also need their federal waterfowl stamp.

Resident hunters need a small game or combination license. In addition, they must have the state Migratory Bird Certification and a federal waterfowl stamp.

“We want to encourage hunters landowners who have encountered goose depredation to utilize hunters in this unique situation. This is a great opportunity for hunters to introduce kids and others who are not active goose hunters. If hunters can provide assistance to producers while enjoying the outdoors and the sport of hunting, we see it as a win-win for everyone,” said Lindgren.

The Early Canada Goose Season runs September 5-30. The daily limit is 5 birds with a 10 bird possession limit.

For more information, visit www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/hunting/waterfowl/Fallgoose.htm.

Anyone that is interested in a Snow goose hunt please reach us at Nebraska Hunting Company. I urge you to book early as this may be one of the best seasons we have had.

Good Hunting,
Scott Croner

Important Dates to Remember: August

2009-07-26T22:32:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

These are the important dates in the month of August from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Aug. 1
Squirrel hunting season opens
First day requests accepted for special grouse hunting permits

Aug. 7
Final day to apply for bighorn sheep hunting lottery

Aug. 9
Archery paddlefish season closes

Aug. 10
First day to purchase fall turkey hunting permits, beginning at 1 p.m. CT

Aug. 15
Bullfrog season opens
Elk hunting season in Boyd Unit opens

Aug. 20
Archery antelope hunting season opens

Aug. 28
Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners meeting, Lincoln, 8 a.m.
Drawing for bighorn sheep hunting permit

Aug. 31
Raccoon and Virginia opossum running season closes

Sincerely,
J Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Outfitter Chronicles: J Scott Croner Part II

2009-07-24T22:06:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!

The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles has posted the second part of my interview with them on their blog:

The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: Outfitter Chronicles: J Scott Croner Part II

I would once more like to thank Albert for the great interview and for allowing me to speak to all his readers!

Sincerely,
J Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Outfitter Chronicles: J Scott Croner Part I

2009-07-24T19:27:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,

I have had a real treat in doing an interview with Albert Rasch of The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles. We covered some serious topics, but we had a lot of fun too. I'm looking forward to hunting some Florida Hogs sometime in the future with Albert!

You can find the interview at The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles: The Outfitter Chronicles: J Scott Croner Part I

Thanks again for stopping by, and don't forget to check on our latest hunting packages at Nebraska Hunting Company.

Sincerely,
J Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Frequently Asked Questions: Part II

2009-07-20T16:24:00.000-07:00

© 2009 J Scott Croner and
Nebraska Hunting Company Hunting Merriam's Turkey, Nebraska turkey hunting, hunting turkey in Nebraska

Frequently Asked Questions: Part II

Q. What kind of shape do I need to be in?
A. This is a great question. A hunter needs to be able to walk 2 – 5 miles on rolling hills with some steep inclines. It always makes for a better hunt if you do some exercise before the season starts; it is just like getting you equipment ready.

Q. Can I hunt all day in Nebraska?
A. Yes we can hunt from ½ hour before sunrise until sunset. There is shooting light from almost 5:30am until 8:30pm or so.

Q. Can I hunt on Sundays?
A. Yes we can hunt everyday of the week. Keep in mind we start hunting when you arrive at the lodge. It is NOT part of the days of your hunt however when the weather is good you should hunt. You never know when it will get nasty.

Q. What is there to do after I shoot my gobblers?
A. You can go site seeing, but will have already seen just about everything in the area. We suggest taking it easy and taking a well deserved break.

Q. What are the sleeping arrangements like in the lodges?
A. There are single and double rooms depending on how many in your group.

Q. How many hunters do you take at a time?
A. NHC can take 2 – 6 hunters per day as long as some of them are experienced. You will normally be by yourself. On occasion we have hunters that prefer to hunt together, and we will certainly accommodate you if you are here in a party or family group!

Q. Can you accommodate Women? Kids?
A. Of course! Both women and young adults can hunt too.

Q. What is your alcohol policy?
A. The lodge serves alcohol, however once you drink, you are done for the day with hunting.

Q. What shot size do you recommend?
A. Take the time to pattern your gun! You need to see what shoots the best out of your gun, check 4’s, 5’s, or 6’s. You may also want to be careful with how tight of a choke you use. Often hunters come with chokes that are way too tight! Some of our birds are shot at very close range and every year some of our hunters are taking multiple shots at toms or missing them altogether as the shot charge whizzes by them.

Q. Do you shoot jakes?
A. No, not on purpose! However accidents happen and a few jakes have been shot. But the good thing is, they taste good too.

Q. How do I get to your camp?
A. You will fly into Omaha and then you will have to drive to Brewster, Nebraska. It’s about 4.5 hours. Nebraska is big.

Q. What do I bring with me?
A. Multiple changes of camo clothes, turkey calls, shotgun ammo, shotgun .

Q. What weather can I expect?
A. The Midwest can be fickle in the spring. Temperatures can range from 25deg – 90deg during our turkey season, sometimes all in the same day! You might have rain, snow, tornados, and thunderstorms. Yes it is all here during spring turkey season.

Q. How may I reserve a spot?
A. Reserve your spot by submitting a 50% deposit along with all of your information.

Q. How fast do you book up?
A. Typically the weekend hunts (Thursday – Sunday) are booked by January. By mid March we are usually booked up, but occasionally we will have a cancellation and you may be able to take advantage of it and book a hunt when no others are available.

If you have any questions please call us, or leave us a comment and we will do our best to answer you quickly and to your satisfaction.

Sincerely,
J Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Frequently Asked Questions: Part I

2009-07-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

© 2009 J Scott Croner and
Nebraska Hunting Company Hunting Merriam's Turkey, hunting merriams turkey, nebraska turkey hunting, hunting turkey in nebraska

Frequently Asked Questions: Part I

When you are planning your first outfitted hunt you probably have, or should have some questions. We have put together the most asked questions, and several that should have been asked!

Q. What is your success rate?
A. In a word, Outstanding! In the past 5 years only 3 hunters out of a total of over 100 hunters have not harvested a turkey. All of our other hunters have harvested 2 toms and many of them in the last 2 years have harvested 3 toms during their stay with us.

Q. How many birds can I harvest?
A. Nebraska law allows hunters to hunt and harvest 3 tom turkeys in the spring. When hunting with the Nebraska Hunting Company you can harvest 2 toms. There is an additional fee for harvesting the 3rd tom.

Q. Is there a draw for permits?
A. No, permits are over the counter (internet download) and unlimited.

Q. What is included in your turkey hunt package?
A. The packages are all inclusive. (Food, Lodging, Transportation once you arrive at the lodge.)

Q. What is not included?
A. You will have to purchase your turkey permits, habitat stamp, alcohol, and tips are not included.

Q. Do you have a taxidermist?
A. If you do not have a taxidermist, we recommend that you use Wildlife Creations Taxidermy in Omaha, Nebraska. We will deliver your turkey to him so that he can mount it just the way you want.

Q. What is an appropriate tip amount?
A. 10% - 15% of hunt package based on how successful the hunt is.

Q. What airport should I fly into?
A. Your best bet is Omaha, Nebraska it has the least expensive fares.

Q. Are all of your turkeys Merriam’s?
A. The Merriam’s turkey is defined as having off white tail tips and coverlets. Over 75% of the birds we harvest fall within this color range. The occasional Eastern, Rio, or Hybrid birds that we harvest also make unique and exceptional trophies, often growing heavier with longer beards and much longer spur lengths than our Merriam’s turkeys. Take a look at our gallery to see what our trophy turkeys look like.

Q. What are the season dates?
A. Archery starts late March and runs through end of May.
A. Shotgun starts mid April and runs through end May.

Q. When is the best time to hunt?
A. We have yet to find a day of the week or weekend that is not a great one to hunt on. What do they say? A bad day of hunting is better than a good day at work! But if we had to pick, it would be the 2nd to the 5th week.

Q. Do you clean my bird?
A. If you are NOT an expert at cleaning a turkey, don’t worry, we can do it for you. If you are not getting a full mount, we will cut the tail, beard, and feet off of the tom and then breast him out and cut the legs and thighs off.

Q. What camouflage works best?
A. All camo works however a grassland pattern works best during the early season and then camo patterns with more green as we get into May.

Q. How good of a caller must I be?
A. If you want to call in your own birds, you should be at least an average caller with a few bird harvests under your belt. We don’t want you to be discouraged if you have problems calling the turkeys into gun range. You are here to have a good and successful hunt, and we want to help you make it happen.

Q. Can I do my own calling?
A. Yes you can always do your own calling. If you are going to call your own birds you will be put in a location where there are plenty of birds.

Q. What calls do you recommend?
A. Most turkey hunters know that you need diaphragm, box, glass, and slate calls. Each call makes a different sound and birds can react differently to all of them. Again, you should have some experience in calling them in.

We will continue or Frequently asked Questions on our next post!

Sincerely,
J Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

Hunting Turkey: Merriam's in Nebraska

2009-07-13T16:43:00.000-07:00

© 2009 J Scott Croner and
Nebraska Hunting Company

We have had a very nice article posted about our Merriam Turkey hunting programs and the success of one of our regular clients, Mr Todd Ried, by Albert over at The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles.

Hunting Trophy Turkey: Merriam's in Nebraska covers some information about all six turkeys found in North America, and also talks about Todd's melanistic Merriam's turkey. Talk about a great trophy!

A little known fact is that Nebraska Fish and Game stocked Merriam's turkeys in the late 1950s:

"The modern history of wild turkeys in Nebraska began in 1959 with the release in the Pine Ridge of 28 Merriam's turkeys trapped in South Dakota and Wyoming. Although Merriam's are not native to Nebraska, the release succeeded, and the Pine Ridge population grew to about 3,000 birds in only four nesting seasons."

Nebraska Game and Parks

The history of turkey hunting and the efforts to bring them back again in Nebraska is one of the most interesting stories in wildlife management. We will be covering more of it in greater depth in the future.

Sincerely,
J Scott Croner
Nebraska Hunting Company

The Nebraska Hunting Company

2009-07-11T05:42:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Nebraska Hunting Outfitters and Nebraska Hunting Company Blog!

As we continue to grow, we would like to share our adventures with each and every one of you, and also give an opportunity to our clients and friends to share their stories with you also.

We still haven't quite figured out what we are going to put on here besides all the great hunts we have, but some of the ideas are:

Recipes from our kitchens,
News from our hunting concession areas,
Definitely pictures!
Special deals that come up from time to time,
and of course, news from our friends throughout the world!

If anyone has any other things that they would like to see we will definitely see if it will fit in as soon as possible!

Thanks You!

Sincerely yours,
J Scott Croner
CEO Nebraska Hunting Company
NebraskaHunting.Net