Blogs > Oneida Outdoors

An online space for outdoorsmen from CNY and beyond. Tell us about the one you caught or the one that got away.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Walk in the winter woods

For a lot of the winter, the Polar Vortex or serious wind chill factor kept a lot of normally active people inside. Although this weekend is expected to see more of the same, there should be a lot milder winter weather as we progress into early March. If you haven’t enjoyed your normal winter activities like snowshoeing or cross country skiing, the next few weeks should be the ideal time to do it.
The thaw last weekend settled the snow and the following cold snap made for a solid base of snow cover beneath the recent snowfall. It will make for good conditions for skiing, snowshoeing or just taking a walk. Take a walk in the winter woods or fields. It is an opportunity to get exercise and fresh air, see some interesting things, and enjoy the woods from a different perspective.
Take a long or short walk down your favorite hiking trail. Travel some old railroad bed, a log road, unplowed roads in a state park or even some seasonal road through a state forest that is devoid of vehicular traffic this winter. Dress properly, set your own pace and be observant to some of the rhythms of nature in winter.
To some people the woods or fields may seem cold, barren and desolate in winter. But if you are observant and curious, a whole new world may be unveiled to you. The landforms and objects that were hidden by summer’s lush foliage are now revealed, showing some rock formations, streams or other natural features that you did not know were there.
With or without snow cover, the old roads and trails are now evident. Ruts or sculpted terrain show signs of a long ago farm or log road. Deer trails that were hidden by thick briers, vines or weeds are now evident.
Combine the walk with deer scouting. Trails and other signs such as rubs are now more evident. If there is a lack of snow cover you may be lucky to find some shed antlers. Frequently scan the area ahead or on either side and you may be fortunate to see several deer. They are likely to be seen in south facing slopes where the sun will melt the snow sooner.
To some people it seems that the woods are devoid of life because most of the birds that inhabited the area have gone south for the winter. However, if you are near an evergreen thicket you may see and hear plenty of winter residents such as blue jays, juncos, chickadees and others. You may be lucky and see less common birds such as a snowy owl feeding in the open field in daylight or even an eagle near open water.
More likely you will see the signs of wildlife if you know what to look for. If there is a light snow you can study the tracks of the unseen inhabitants. A fox’s tracks that end in a flurry of snow shows where he pounced on a field mouse for lunch. If you see what appear to be dog tracks, they may well be coyote tracks. A coyote’s tracks are usually in a straight line with paw prints in a line. By contrast a domestic dog usually leaves tracks that wander all over and paw prints rarely line up.
During the warmer weather squirrels will emerge from their sleep and scurry about in search of food they have hidden. Both a squirrel when bounding, and a rabbit in its normal hopping pattern will leave prints where the hind paws land in front of the front paws. However, if the tracks end at a tree, you can safely bet that it is a squirrel.
Going alongside a stream with steep banks can sometime reveal a worn area where some critter has been sliding down the bank into the water repeatedly. This is a sign that an otter or two has been frequenting the area and taking a break to have some fun. A random pile of feathers or fur without nearby tracks shows that some hawk or owl has been “dining al fresco” on a hapless rabbit or squirrel.
Be sure to take your camera for some interesting and unique shots of scenery. Carry water, snacks, sunglasses and possibly hand warmers or toe warmer packets. Wear proper footgear and avoiding getting wet feet. In summer it can be inconvenient; in winter it can be a lot more serious.
If you are not familiar with where you are going or are taking a longer hike, be sure to have a map, compass or possibly GPS unit. Carry a small emergency kit in your fanny pack or pocket and be sure to include space blankets. These fold into compact little packets but are essential if you should become stranded.
Dress sensibly and be prepared for changes in weather. It is best to dress in layers that you can add or remove depending on your exercise level and weather. Just remember to add or remove a layer before you get too sweaty or too cold. A light day pack to carry your unused clothing and extra gloves is recommended.
Make it a point to explore or investigate some new area or even revisit a familiar one for a new perspective. Don’t just sit home and wish for spring. Take a walk in the winter woods.
SHORT CASTS
Mentor Program Annual Youth or Women Turkey Hunts: The Oneida County Sportsmen’s Federation and NWTF are teaming up, with the assistance of other groups, to give youngsters a great experience during the Youth Turkey Hunting Weekend, April 26 and 27 2014. Youngsters eligible for the youth hunt and who do not have the opportunity to learn from a family member or an adult mentor will have the opportunity to go turkey hunting with a mentor.
During the weekend of April 12, 2014 - prior to the weekend of the hunt - youngsters will learn from experienced mentors the basics of turkey hunting and practice their marksmanship at a shooting range under the supervision of certified instructors. Eligible hunters are youths 12-15 years of age, holding a junior hunting license and a turkey permit with written permission from their parent or legal guardian.
Youngsters who are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity will need to have completed their hunter safety course and have the permission of a parent or guardian. Youngsters must complete the application and submit it to the address below or by email sfcf@tds.net by April 1, 2014:
Youth/ Women Turkey Hunt
C/O Mr. Scott Faulkner
3720 Wells Gifford Rd,
Vernon Center, NY 13477
Phone 315-829-3588
Some women may want to learn or participate in turkey hunting but do not have family members or someone who are experienced turkey hunters to learn from. The Oneida County Sportsmen’s Federation mentors will again provide this opportunity. This year’s hunt will be May 17, 2014. Prior to the hunt, women will learn from experienced mentors the basics of turkey hunting and practice their marksmanship at a shooting range under the supervision of certified instructors.
Eligible hunters are women 16 years of age and older holding a valid small game hunting license and a turkey permit. The bag limit for that day is one bearded bird.
Women who are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity will need to have completed their hunter safety course by that date. They must complete an application and submit it to the address above by April 1, 2014 or by email to sfcf@tds.net. Those chosen for this program will be notified.
X-Bow Status: Many sportsmen were encouraged by the governor’s inclusion of a crossbow season in his budget proposal. However, if you are in favor of this crossbow season regulated by the DEC, now is not the time to be complacent. The budget must still go through committee meetings and there is still room for political maneuvering by the opponents of the crossbow season (i.e. NY Bowhunters, Inc.)
If you are in favor of a crossbow season that would be determined and regulated by the DEC, not some sham set by the NYS legislature, then you need to act in the next few weeks. Contact your legislators and the legislative leaders and let them know that you are in favor of the budget provision as proposed by governor Cuomo. You can find information online or contact the NYS Crossbow Coalition (nycrossbowcoalition.com).

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Staying warm in cold weather

Even though we are used to cold and nasty weather in winter, it seems that this year it was more difficult to enjoy outdoor activities due to unpleasant conditions. One of the factors in addition to sub zero temperatures was the wind chill factor.
One of the considerations when the temperature gets this cold is always the danger of frostbite. Exposed flesh can suffer frostbite, or at least frostnip, when the temperature drops this low. Even other extremities such as hands and feet are in danger because the body constricts it circulation when it gets this cold, so make sure they are warm as well as covered.
The key is dressing in layers and choosing the right clothing. Staying warm starts with a proper base layer of synthetic underwear. Unlike the polypropylene of previous years which could not be washed normally and retained odor, today’s synthetics can be washed as long as you do not toss them in the dryer.
Many like the Under Armor line come in different weights for different activities and temperature extremes. This should fit snugly to provide warmth, yet it wicks away moisture and keeps you dry and warm no matter what your activity is. There are other brands that are also effective but I personally find that Under Armor is the warmest most comfortable.
Adding a sweater of flannel, wool or synthetic fleece keeps in the body heat. Choose the proper outerwear of wool or synthetic coat and pants to keep you warm, depending on your activity.
Choosing the right clothing is a matter of preference for fit and determining the activity that you are planning on doing. Obviously, a sport like cross country skiing where you are active and burning up calories does not require as much protection as a sport where you are inactive and subject to wind chill like ice fishing or snowmobiling.
Today there are a lot of synthetics that can provide warmth without adding bulk or weight. The old standby wool is still effective warm clothing, and is preferred by many people for certain activities like hunting. The difference now is that we have synthetic underwear and vests underneath, so the outer layer of wool pants or jacket isn’t as heavy or burdensome as it once was. Wool has the added advantage of being able to keep you warm even if it gets wet (although that is not a desirable outcome in winter weather!).
Of course we know that staying warm in winter involves more than just choosing the proper clothing. We should “stoke the body furnace” before venturing outside in cold weather. Eat a hearty meal of pasta or bread or similar carbohydrates that are easily digested. These will help keep your body warm.
Coffee isn’t really goof for winter warm ups, although it may feel good going down. Caffeine constricts the blood vessels making it more difficult for your body to keep the circulation going. It also is a diuretic, which may leave you thirsty and slightly dehydrated also having a negative effect on circulation. Instead try some hot cider or beef broth and leave the other “remedies” until you are back from the outing.
You should drink lots of water, since dehydration and lower blood volume will impair your body’s ability to circulate blood and heat. This is especially true for people who are involved in active sports like cross country skiing or those who are subject to intense wind chill factor like ice fishermen.
Proper headgear, gloves or mittens and insulated boots are essential. Footgear is vital since it not only keeps you comfortable, but prevents serious problems like frostbite. Wearing too many socks can be dangerous because that can restrict the circulation and cause heat loss. Adding hand warmers or toe warmers can help, especially in situations where you are not as active.
A little common sense and modern technology will go a long way in keeping you warm this winter. Proper preparation and a little cooperation from the weather will enable you to enjoy the last month of winter sports.
Mentor Program Annual Youth Turkey Hunt and Womens Turkey Hunt: The Oneida County Sportsmen’s Federation and NWTF are teaming up with the assistance of other groups to give youngsters a great experience during the Youth Turkey Hunting Weekend, April 26 and 27, 2014. Youngsters eligible for the youth hunt and who do not have the opportunity to learn from a family member or an adult mentor will have the opportunity to go turkey hunting with a mentor.
During the weekend of April 12, 2014, prior to the weekend of the hunt, youngsters will learn from experienced mentors the basics of turkey hunting and practice their marksmanship at a shooting range under the supervision of certified instructors.
Eligible hunters are youth 12 to 15 years of age, holding a junior hunting license and a turkey permit. Youth 12 to 13 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or relative over 21 years of age, with written permission from their parent or legal guardian. Youth 14 to 15 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or an adult over 18 years of age, with written permission from their parent or legal guardian.
The bag limit for the youth weekend is one bearded bird. This bird becomes part of the youth’s regular season bag limit of two bearded birds. A
second bird may be taken beginning May 1.
Youngsters who are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity will need to have completed their hunter safety course and have the permission of a parent or guardian. Youngsters must complete the application and submit it to the address below or by email sfcf@tds.net by April 1, 2014
Women will also have the opportunity to learn to hunt with an experienced mentor. This year’s date will be May 17, 2014 with a rain date of May 18, 2014.
Some women may want to learn or participate in turkey hunting but do not have family members or someone who are experienced turkey hunters to learn from. The Oneida County Sportsmen’s Federation mentors will provide this opportunity. During the weekend of April 12, 2014, prior to the hunt, women will learn from experienced mentors the basics of turkey hunting and practice their marksmanship at a shooting range under the supervision of certified instructors.
Youth or Women interested in the mentor assisted hunts should contact: Youth Turkey Hunt/ Womens Turkey Hunt, C/O Mr. Scott Faulkner, 3720 Wells Gifford Rd.,Vernon Center, NY 13477. Phone 315-829-3588.
Great Backyard Bird Count: Last weekend’s Great Backyard Bird Count showed many of the common species at bird feeders were among the most
reported. Most people had cardinals, juncos, mourning doves, blue jays, tufted titmice and goldfinch on their lists. It also showed that the numbers of most finches were drastically down. Very few redpolls, purple finches, crossbills and pine siskins were reported. Apparently there has been plenty of seeds in the Canadian north for these birds so they did not have to migrate to this area as they have for the past two years.
One visitor from the far north that has shown up in great numbers is the snowy owl. Thousands of sightings, including several in this area, have been reported. My friend Sue Kiesel recently sent me some great photos of one that she spotted in her travels.
It isn’t know what has caused so many to come down from the arctic. Some theorize that it is food shortage if the lemming population has crashed. Or it may just be that population increases in recent years have sent excess numbers south in search of prey. They are most likely to be found in open areas where they normally feed on small animals and birds

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Central New York Sportsman Show returns this Saturday

The popular Central New York Sportsmans Show returns to the Oneida Kallet Civic Center this Saturday, February 8. It is a chance to escape the winter doldrums, take advantage of bargains in sporting goods and have a chance to learn more about your favorite sports.
It will be fun for the entire family with the Utica Zoo presenting a seminar on Wildlife Live” and other exhibits for youngsters. Have them stop by Dan the Snakeman, Trout Unlimited and other colorful exhibits to see ducks and deer mounts.
This is your chance to support a local school as well as many local businesses. Vendors range from tackle shops, antique lures, clothing, game calls, cooking supplies and more. Whether you are a hunter, fisherman, paddler or photographer, there will be something to see, learn or purchase.
Meet and learn about many of the conservation organizations that work to preserve hunting and fishing opportunities in upstate New York, including Fish Creek Atlantic Salmon Club, NYS Outdoorsmen Hall of Fame, Trout Unlimited and CNY Wildfowlers.
Once again the show will offer visitors the opportunity to meet with guides covering Lake Ontario and other popular inland waters such as Otisco Lake, as well as Adirondack adventures. Even if you don’t sign up for a charter on Saturday you should stop and visit and find out the details of fishing and what the expectations are. Later you can discuss this with family or friends and make reservations for an exciting and productive trip.
Stop at the Lake Ontario Outdoors & Adirondack Outdoors booth to say hello, pick up free copies and samples and have a chance to win door prizes. Visit with salmon and sttelhead guide Chris Mulpagano, a former local resident who is featured on the cover of the current issue of Lake Ontario Outdoors.
A full day of seminars will include Adirondack Brook Trout Fishing (9:45 a.m.), Retriever Training for Duck Hunting (10:15 a.m.) and Wildlife Live – Utica Zoo (10:45 a.m.). Others will be Coyotes & Coyote Trapping (11:30 a.m.), Deer Hunting –QDA (1:00 p.m.), Wildlife Photography (1:30 p.m.), and Benefit of Sporting Clubs (2:45 p.m.).
Deer hunters can talk to renowned Adirondack deer hunters Tony and Pat Salerno, who have been featured in North American Whitetail magazine. You will also have the opportunity to visit with authors of deer hunting books, learn about the NYS Big Buck Club, NY Bowhunters, Inc. and Whitetail Management Coalition.
The author’s table will allow you to meet and obtained signed copies of books by Bob Elinskas, Dick Borden, Jay O’Hern, Nancy Best, Spider Rybaak, Michael Kelly, Eric Dresser, and Todd Mead. These topics cover everything from fishing and hunting to wildlife photography and cooking.
Do you have questions about guns, ammo or shooting sports? You can ask the experts at Gunworks of CNY as well as arrange for later work or purchases. If turkey hunting is your sport, you should not miss the opportunity to learn from experts like Gary Campanie or Shawn Fox at their respective booths and purchase some of their quality products.
Be sure to visit the NYS Sturgeons for Tomorrow booth to find out about these potential monster fish that are making a comeback in Oneida Lake. Tom Lenweaver’s wildlife art is a must stop if you enjoy fine art and outdoor subjects. Sample some of Dennis Dedek’s great offerings on the grill and take home a supply of Iron Skillet seasonings.
Hours will be 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. As always the key to the success of the show is the variety of exhibits and vendors and the fact that all booths are outdoor-related. The show will culminate at 4 p.m. with the presentation of the CNY Sportsman of the Year Award. See you at the Show!
SHORT CASTS
Great American Outdoor Show – Harrisburg: The Chittenango Rod & Gun Club invites area sportsmen to join them on a bus trip to the Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA on Saturday, February 8. They will leave Shoppingtown Mall, Dewitt at 5 a.m. in a luxury coach and return to the mall around 10 p.m.
Cost per person is $60 and includes admission to the show. Cal Bruce Berean at 315-439-0260 or email bbcaddy@aol.com to reserve your seat.
Gunworks of CNY: A lot of our guns have been sitting in the closet since the holidays or the end of deer season. You probably had big plans to do some coyote hunting, or small game hunting but the bitter cold weather convinced you to change your plans.
If you haven’t given your guns a thorough cleaning, now is the time to do it. Or better yet, have some professionals like Gunworks of CNY do it. Autoloading shotguns and rifles are more complex and many of us lack the skill to do a thorough job on them. The interior gas system gets fouled up, accumulates grease and oil and collects dirt, weed seeds and other debris from being afield.
Not only will Gary Donovan and his skilled crew do a professional job on cleaning and lubricating all parts of your guns, they will be alert for little problems or conditions that can become big problems if they are not taken care of. Stop at their shop on Route 31 near Verona or call 363-7041. You have a lot invested in your guns. Give them the care they deserve.
Great Backyard Bird Count: This year’s Great Backyard Bird Count sponsored by Cornell University Lab of Ornithology will be February 14 – 17. It is easy to participate; all you have to do is count the different species of birds in your backyard or other area on a given day and report it to the Cornell website. It can be a fun, family friendly way to discover and help the birds in your community. Visit the website www.birdcount.org to learn more about this event.
Save the Date - Adirondack Outdoors Show: Next weekend, February 15 and 16, is the Adirondack Outdoorsman Show in Johnstown. Location is the Moose Club on Route 30A (Comrie Ave) in Johnstown. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The show is all outdoors related with an emphasis on the Adirondack experience. Booths and vendors including guns and accessories, trapping and taxidermy, fishing supplies, knives, Adirondack gifts and collectibles, artwork, gloves, marine and boating supplies, exotic game meats, antique hunting and fishing gear, charters, guides and resorts. There will also be authors with book signings, seminars, raffles and door prizes. Visit www.adkshow.com for details.
DEC Summer Camp Program: The NYS DEC is now accepting online applications for its 67th Annual Summer Camp Program. The 2014 camp season begins June 29.
Parents may register campers only through DEC’s convenient, online registration system and pay by credit card, e-check or with a sponsor code. Fees for the 2014 camp season remain $350 per one-week session per camper. Camp dates and a link to the online registration system are posted on DEC’s website: www.dec.ny.gov/education/29.html. Families without internet access should call the camp office at 518-402-8014 for information on how to register for camp alternatively.
Youth 11 through 17-years old enjoy week-long adventures in conservation education at DEC’s residential summer camps. They participate in a wide variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, bird watching, fly-tying, archery, canoeing, hiking, camping, orienteering and optional hunter safety education.
New DEC License System: The new DEC licensing system is up and running. After a temporary shutdown sportsmen are now able to report harvesting or purchase the new licenses at the new reduced fees. Access this system by calling 1-866-933-2257 or at https://aca.dec.accela.com/dec/.