Preferred Product List for New Mexico Elk Hunt

November, 2010

 Leather Hiking Boots

Kenetrek’s Mountain Extreme boot is a great choice for this hunt.  They are full leather, waterproof boots.  Their 400 grams of insulation will provide enough warmth on the cool mornings but not be too warm for a mid-day stalk.  Through our experience, the Mountain Extreme’s advanced lug design has been a hunt saver when navigating wet, slippery, uneven terrain.  This boot will provide the support you need for the varied conditions you will encounter on this hunt. 

Now, an item that can make a world of difference when wearing leather boots is a good gaiter system.  We use and recommend the Kenetrek gaiters.  Even though their boots have a rock guard and are built with high quality components, a pair of gaiters will save on wear and tear on both your boots and your clothing!

Kenetrek Boots:

http://www.kenetrek.com/prodinfo.asp?number=KE-420-400

Retail:  $375.00                              Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $320.00

Gaiters:

http://www.kenetrek.com/products.asp?dept=13

Retail:  $49.99                                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $44.99

Socks

As important as your boots are, your socks are equally important.  The right socks will help regulate foot temperature and keep your feet warm even when damp.  We strongly recommend a layering system similar to what we recommend for your clothing.  A good next to skin sock that wicks moisture is critical to this system working properly.  For this layer we use and recommend the Danner Pronghorn liner sock.  It is antimicrobial throughout its construction so it will minimize odor development.  Your next layer should be a heavier merino wool sock that will keep you warm even when wet and will not begin to smell after days of heavy use.  A good choice for this layer is the Danner Merino Wool Pronghorn.   Always remember – it never hurts to have an extra pair or two in case you get wet!

Danner Website:

http://www.danner.com/category/accessories/socks.do

Danner Pronghorn Liner:

Retail:  $8.99                                   Outdoor Connection Exclusive price:  $7.99 

Danner Pronghorn(2 pack):

Retail:  $16.99                                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive price: $14.99

Clothing

The next product grouping that we’d like to discuss is clothing.  Layering is the key to allowing a quality clothing “system” work.  Each layer plays its own part.  Average temperatures for your hunting area over the last 3 years range from low 30’s at night to 70 during the day in early-November.  This means that you’ll need to be prepared to handle 30+ degree temperature swings over the course of a day in the field.  Properly layered clothing is the only way you’ll stay comfortable in this environment.

Next to Skin Layer

The first part of the system is the clothing that you will wear next to your skin.  We have had tremendous success with 100% merino wool long underwear.  It is the ultimate material for moisture wicking, insulation, and scent elimination.  There are a lot of synthetic products on the market, most of which we have tested and been disappointed with.  They are great for a day or two but just don’t remain scent free like wool.  Our recommendation is a product made by Minus 33.  We do not recommend the expedition weight for your hunt.  The conditions are more suitable for the standard weight(230g) garments.  They make the tops in crew neck http://minus33.com/minus33ls.htm, turtle neck http://minus33.com/minus33tneck.htm, or in ¼ zip http://minus33.com/minus33ziptops.htm. 

Retail:  $39.99                     Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $32.99. 

Bottoms are cut one way.  Again, the standard weight(230g) is what we recommend for your hunt. 

http://www.minus33.com/minus33bottoms.htm

Retail:  $29.99                                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $26.99

Insulation Layer/Outer Layer

Sitka’s 90% top and bottoms are our choice for this type of hunt.  They are quiet, durable, wick moisture, and will keep you dry if you do encounter light precipitation.  This layer will be worn a majority of the time you are in the field, weather it is as an outer layer or an insulation layer.

Sitka Website:  http://www.sitkagear.com/products/forest/jackets-vests/midweight-jackets/90-percent-jacket/

Jacket Retail:  $229.99                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $209.99

Pant Retail:  $229.99                    Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $209.99

We also believe in the insulating properties of a vest.  A good vest will provide warmth to the core part of our body while allowing for more mobility in the arms when you need it most. 

Our recommendation is:  The Sitka Kelvin Vest

http://www.sitkagear.com/products/forest/jackets-vests/all-vests/

Retail:  $149.99                              Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $134.

Waterproof, Wind Blocking Layer

This is undoubtedly the key to allowing your clothing system to work when the weather gets bad.  This outer layer should be built to withstand the elements while allowing the next to skin and insulation layer to work.  This does not have to be a heavy layer.  When you are layered properly this should actually be lightweight clothing that will keep the rain(or snow) and wind off of you.  You will need a garment that is 100% waterproof, including taped seams and waterproof zippers.  There is nothing worse than having to spend a day in the field wet.  We have had the best experiences with the Sitka Downpour top and bottom set.  These garments are not only lightweight and durable but will keep you dry under any condition and block the wind extremely well. 

http://www.sitkagear.com/products/forest/jackets-vests/waterproof-jackets/downpour-jacket/

Jacket Retail:  $249.99                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $224.99 

Pant Retail:  $199.99                    Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $179.99

This is how we would plan on layering for your hunt:

1.  Next to Skin Layer
2. Insulation Layer(s) with vest
3. Protection Layer
   1. 100% waterproof, wind blocking layer

                                                              i.      If the weather is favorable we would start with the waterproof/wind blocking layer in our packs and ready to go should the conditions worsen.

Gloves and Hats

A basic camo ball cap will work well for most of your time in the field.  When it gets cold a stocking hat is handy to keep your head and ears warm.  The other option is a ball cap that has ear flaps.  If you don’t have either of these let us know and we’ll get one sent to you.  When it is raining, snowing, or somewhere in between, it is best to rely on your rain jacket’s hood to keep dry.

Gloves can be a little tricky.  Big and bulky will keep you warm but make it difficult to make the shot when you need to.  Too thin and your fingers will freeze.  Most hunters still wear one pair of gloves at a time.  We have had a lot of luck layering our gloves like our clothing.  On the cooler mornings and days it will be helpful to wear a thin glove inside an insulating glove.  We wear the Under Armour liner glove under either a heavy or light insulating glove.  This liner glove does wonders to wick moisture away from your skin to keep your hands feeling dry and warm no matter what.  This also allows us to quickly “shed” a heavier glove to handle a weapon with ease for the shot of a lifetime.  A great lightly insulated glove is the Manzella Wind Pro glove – this glove will provide some protection from water but will not be 100% waterproof.  We see you wearing this glove most of the time. 

Under Armour Website:  http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/mens/sports/hunting/accessories/gloves.

Retail on the Under Armour Camo Liner Glove:  $21.99                                                                            Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $19.99

Manzella Website:

http://www.manzella.com/productresults.aspx?marketsegment=field&category_code=mens&warmth_rating_code=warmer&glovefinder=false

Retail on the Stalker Glove:  $24.99     Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $22.49

Optics, Pack, and Accessories

Optics

A high quality set of binoculars that we recommend are made by Leupold.  The Golden Ring 10×42HD’s provide a crisp, clear picture in the lowest of light conditions.  They are also built to stand up to everything you will ever throw at them and backed by Leupold’s Lifetime Warranty.  You can view these at http://www.leupold.com/hunting-and-shooting/products/binoculars/. 

Retail:  $799.99                              Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $699.99

It is always a good idea to carry your binoculars on a bino system.  If you don’t know what this is you can view it at http://www.streiffsstore.com/servlet/-strse-1450/CRO-BINO-SYSTEM-BLACK/Detail

The bino system will keep your binoculars at your chest and ready for whenever you may need them.  They will also eliminate a lot of the weight you would feel while carrying binoculars with a standard neck strap.  The bino system is an inexpensive way to make a huge difference on your hunt.

Retail:  $24.99                                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $22.49                      

Rangefinder

When the moment of truth arrives a rangefinder will eliminate any doubt as to how far an elk is from you.  A couple of things to think about:  1.  A laser rangefinder will work far better than one that needs a reflective surface to obtain a distance reading – especially at long distances.  2.  A rangefinder with a scan feature will allow you to quickly scan an area or follow a moving animal.  This is especially helpful when trying to give distance readings to a hunting partner. 

Our number one recommendation for a rangefinder to take on this trip is the Leupold RX1000.  You can view this rangefinder at http://www.leupold.com/hunting-and-shooting/products/rangefinders/rx-1000-compact-rangefinders/rx-1000-compact-digital-laser-rangefinder/.

Retail:  $399.99                              Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $359.99

Pack

Eberlestock’s packs are at the top of their class in build, fit, and functionality.  The Just One J34 pack is the new, improved version of the pack that Greg uses – the Original Just One.  Starting at 2300 cubic inches, this pack will expand to 4600.  The J34 weighs just 6.14 pounds so it is something you will carry with ease all day.  It also has an improved internal aluminum frame system that will support plenty of weight should you ever need to pack anything heavy.  Other important items are a rain fly and hydration bladder.  You can view this pack at http://www.eberlestock.com/J34%20Just%20One.htm

Pack Retail:  $249.99                    Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $224.99

Rain Fly Retail:  $26.99                 Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $24.29          

Hydration System Retail:  $19.99                                                                                                                                                          Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $17.99

Accessories

All too often, it is the little things that make the difference on a hunt like this.  A good shooting gun will have you in the field with a ton of confidence.  However, when it is windy, cold, and you are out of breath, a bipod will help to steady you as you prepare to make the shot of a lifetime.  Our goal is to make sure that you are aware of all the accessories, tricks, and tips that we have learned though years of hunting around the world!

Shooting Sticks

The first accessory recommendation is something that we’ve identified as being important on our elk hunts – a set of shooting sticks.  Our recommendation is the Vanguard B-62 bi-pod.  This pod extends up to 62”, has a 360 degree rotating head, weighs less than 1.5lbs., and is built to stand up to everything you will put it through.  In addition, it has removable rubber tips that expose a carbide tip so you can use it as a walking stick or to set up for a shot on slick ground.  You can view this pod at http://www.vanguardworld.com/index.php/en/os/products/hunting-outdoor/detail-2-12-86-372.html

Retail:  $49.99                                             Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $44.99          

Light

A good flashlight is a must on any hunt you are doing.  Our recommended brand is Sure Fire.  Their lights stand up to everything and are extremely bright.  The light we would use for this hunt is the 6P black.  It has an all aluminum frame with a bright, 80 lumen, LED lamp for long life.  You can view this light at http://www.surefire.com/6P-Led.  You will not find a brighter, more durable light for the money.

Retail:  $79.99                                             Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $71.99

Compass/First Aid

No matter what you are doing outdoors it is smart to carry a compass with you.  We use the Brunton compasses http://www.brunton.com/product.php?id=92.  Your price on this specific one is $17.99.  It is not only great for navigation but also handy in case of an emergency with the mirror on it.

A simple First Aid Kit can go a long way should you encounter some problems while out in the field.  We always carry waterproof kits so that we can leave it in our pack and know that it will be ready should we need it.  Your price on the one we carry is $14.99 and includes everything you would need.

Scent Control

Cleanliness and scent control are important when spending many days out in the field, especially when deer hunting as their senses are very keen.  Here are a few items that have been useful to us on our hunts.

It is a good idea to carry some unscented deodorant.  Robinson Outdoors makes a great product that can be viewed at the link below.

http://www.robinsonoutdoors.com/shopping/Products/Anti-Perspirant-Underam-Deodorant__DEO2C.aspx

  This will cost you $5.39. 

Body Bath Towels are very useful when you don’t have time to clean up or have just finished cleaning an elk.  http://www.robinsonoutdoors.com/shopping/Products/Body-Bath-Towels__BB4C.aspx     These are $6.29. 

Personally, we carry the Dead Down Wind Scent Prevent Kit http://www.deaddownwind.com/store/product/scentprevent-kit-1020.cfm.  This kit makes it possible to cover everything scent related.  This kit costs $40.49.

Knife

If you are planning on helping your guide prepare an animal should you have success you will need the proper cutlery.  A gutting and skinning knife would be the most useful to you.  Our recommendation is the Browning Micarta Big Game knife.  You can view this knife at http://www.browning.com/products/catalog/knives/detail.asp?value=049G&cat_id=322&type_id=642. 

Retail:  $109.99                              Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $98.99 

A knife sharpener is absolutely necessary as you are sure to dull your blades through the gutting and skinning process.  We urge you to use one that has two grits, coarse and fine, so that you can fix a badly damaged edge.  A DMT diamond stone works great for this and will pack lightly and easily.  You can view this sharpener at http://www.dmtsharp.com/products/diafold.htm.  Your price is $26.99.

Gutting gloves are a must have – they will keep you clean and dry through the whole process.  Shoulder length gloves worn underneath and wrist length surgical glove work the best.  A pack with both sets in it is $1.79.  We would carry at least two sets with.

Trail Tape

Orange tracking tape is handy for several reasons.  Most commonly it is used for following a blood trail.  It can also be used to mark certain points for reference.  For instance, if you shoot an animal and begin the process of looking for a trail in thick cover it is often helpful to look back at where you shot from.  With some orange trail tape on a tree there will be no question as to where you started from.  One 150 foot roll will cost you $2.24. 

http://www.streiffsstore.com/servlet/-strse-7696/ALL-TAPE-REFLEC-FLAG/Detail

Lens Pen

Anytime you are hunting it is a great idea to carry a lens pen with you so that you can clean and clear your optics.  Believe me, it is very frustrating when you’re in a situation where you are fully prepared to make the shot of a lifetime and not able to get the animal in your scope because it is dirty or foggy.  A Leupold lens pen will cost you $8.99. 

http://www.streiffsstore.com/servlet/-strse-7151/LEU-LENS-PEN-48807/Detail

Dry Bags

We exclusively use and sell SealLine bags.  They make a variety of bags for many different situations.  We encourage you to take a look at this page http://cascadedesigns.com/SealLine to see what may work for you individual situation. 

To give you some starting points: 

We use the 70L boundary pack when we need to pack large amounts of clothing or other items and keep them 100% dry.  The comfortable backpack straps make this easy to carry around.  This is more of a traveling type of pack.

We use the Storm Sacks for keeping little important items protected from the elements.  Extra pair of socks, extra shirt, extra gloves, matches, and food are all items you would put in this style of sack.  These sacks are better suited to keep the items that cannot get wet absolutely dry when in the field.  They’re light enough and small enough that you will easily carry them in your Eberlestock packs.

Again, these would be the two most useful packs to you based on our experience.  The larger boundary pack is ideal for traveling.  The smaller Storm Sacks are perfect for all those little things that can’t get wet.  A couple of these wouldn’t be a bad idea at all.  If you see more that may fit your individual needs they are available as well.

Retail on the Boundary Pack:  $84.99                                                                                                                                                  Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $69.99

Retail on the Storm Sacks:  $9.99

                                                            Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $8.99

Gun Case

A good hard gun case is a must for anyone traveling.  We recommend the Pelican 1750 Weapons case.  We use Pelican cases for protecting a variety of goods; cameras, gps devices, spotting scopes, licenses.  They are waterproof, crushproof, have pressure release valves, are airline approved, and come in a variety of sizes and colors. 

Pelican Case:  http://www.streiffsstore.com/servlet/-strse-10354/PELI-1750-WEAPONS-CASE/Detail

Retail:  $329.99                                       Outdoor Connection Exclusive Price:  $169.99

It is our hope that you find the information we provided to be useful.  Once you have had a chance to look this over and do some research of your own we would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.  Please remember, there are many choices in the categories we have discussed.  The aforementioned products are our recommendations based on the joint effort of Streiff Sporting Goods and our customers, Greg Ray (Fish and Hunt the World)and his clients who have been to this destination, and our supporting manufacturers. 

Again, thank you for the opportunity to help you prepare for this exciting hunt!  Feel free to contact me at Streiff Sporting Goods for any of your product needs or questions.  I can be reached at (800)817-2590 or at nickm@streiffs.com.

Nick Marvin

I am offering a special dicount for this outfitter that you can not get anywhere else so be sure to give me a call and I will provide you with more details.  Greg Ray 918 407 2586 or email greg@outdoor-connection.com

Several years ago like minded waterfowl enthusiasts establisheda friendship that grew into the vision which we now call HabitatFlats. Years of collected resources, knowledge and passion for waterfowling has evolved into this opportunity for our guests to come and experience some of the finest waterfowling in the Midwest. We are truly committed to careful stewardship of our lands, conservation minded with intensive focus placed on management.

 They are located in North central MO in an area referred to as the “Golden Triangle” among waterfowlers. Fountain Grove Conservation Area, Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Grand Pass Conservation area, Dalton Cutoff and the Missouri River are the corners of this area. It winters a staggering number of birds.

See the Photo Album here.. http://blog.fishandhunttheworld.com/photo-album/?album=20

My name is Greg Ray founder of Fish and Hunt the World LLC. (An Outdoor Connection franchise)  Most people are not even aware that a business like mine even exist, let alone understand what we do.  What sets FAHTW apart from the others is the fact that we work for you and find out what your needs and expectations are.  Through our Outdoor Connection network we have personally hunted or fished with each one of our outfitters and written up very detailed reports on our experience with them. With over 300 pre-inspected destinations around the globe we have done all the work for you, we take out all of the guess work, and best of all our service is free to our clients.  We take our inspection process very serious, by documenting every aspect of the outfitters operation.  After a brief consultation with you, we are able to offer you choices of outfitters that best fit your criteria.

Here are some things we consider when choosing a destination for our clients.

• Type of lodging (We offer anything from spike camps to 5 star accommodations)
• Number in the party
• Trophy expectations
• Firearm or Archery
• Type of fishing gear
• Physical limitations
• Budget
• Family or Spouse friendly destination

Please take the time to browse through my website, if you see something you like and would like more information, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. You can also sign up for our monthly newsletter and updates for cancellation trips and specials our outfitters offer.

View all of our destinations at www.fishandhunttheworld.com

I look forward to hearing from you.

Gregory Ray

President

Fish and Hunt the World LLC

greg@outdoor-connection.com

Tickets are $100 each.  Information on each trip is listed below, to purchase tickets you can contact me

Greg Ray greg@outdoor-connection.com or you can contact the Delta Waterfowl Chapter Chairman, Jeff Beshears directly jeffb@windstream.net

This is for a great cause and some fantastic trips.

All Trip of a Lifetime destinations are pre-inspected and provided by  Outdoor Connection if you need more details on any of the destinations listed below visit www.blog.fishandhunttheworld.com or contact Greg Ray at 918 407 2586 greg@outdoor-connection.com

Colorado Elk (6 nights/5 days or Antelope Hunt (3 days): Most of the outfitters in this region bring hunters into the draws that lead into Colorado’s Flat Tops Wilderness, because it requires less time and effort. But some of the most beautiful and abundant elk habitat is on the plateau. PSRO concentrates on bringing their clients clear to the top when weather permits. It takes from 3 ½ to 5 hours on horseback, but it’s worth it!  The harvest opportunities are great. We go the extra mile on our camp facilities as well. Great equipment and a professional staff. Our guided hunters are fed by a real cook, not the guide! And the food is fresh. We deliver more than a great harvesting opportunity, we deliver a great experience. 

(Tags Elk $526 Pronghorn $326)

Costa Rica Tarpon: (7 day 6 night)  Your charters begin just after your trip through the Mountain Cloud Forest, your boat trip upriver to the lodge and a lunch punctuated with local fruits and vegetables. Your charters will end when you say “Let’s go back for Happy Hour!” or when your arms are too tired!

Alberta Moose Hunt: (6 day Hunt) If you are looking for the opportunity to hunt the Canadian Rockies in search of the illusive Canadian Moose we have a treat for you. Alberta is home to the Canadian Moose. These animals are big strong and fun to hunt. Our bulls average between 40- and 55 inches. We have seen larger and had opportunities to harvest 60+ inches. (Tags $600)

Mexico Wing Shooting: (3 days 4 Nights) proud to offer spectacular duck hunting, both in the renowned coastal saltwater marshes near the Gulf of Mexico and on our inland marshes and ponds.  Bag limits are liberal, and include Pintail, Gadwall, Widgeon, Redhead, Canvasback, Mottled, Black, Bufflehead, Green Wing, Blue Wing and Cinnamon Teal, as well as three different species of Whistling Tree Duck. (Combo with dove and quail is offered as well) (All Inclusive)

Manitoba Whitetail or Black Bear: (7 day hunt) The North Interlake Region has become one of the premier hot spots for trophy whitetail, as the area consistently produces a high ratio of B&C typicals and non-typicals.  We have hunted the area for more than 25 years and have insight into deer populations.  Annual aerial surveillance and years of shed hunting enable us to update our hunt areas annually, choosing spots that contain not just one big buck but good numbers. (All Inclusive)

With more than 1.3 million exclusive acres to operate in, we are able to maintain an excellent success rate on big black bear.  Carefully located bait sites guarantee sightings at close range for both bow and rifle hunters.  Our area contains brown, cinnamon and blond phases of black bear.  It is very common to see six adult bears a day with 500-lb bears and larger taken each spring and fall. 

New Mexico Elk (5 day Hunt) or Antelope (3 day Hunt): We also offer a limited amount of tags in Big Game Unit 10.  These tags are unit wide tags.  Unit 10 has produced some great bulls for us in the past and I’m sure it will in the future as well.  This outfitter got its start in this unit and it is a unit that we know very well.  We have taken bulls from the 260” to the 360” range.  This unit has everything from flat to very steep and rugged terrain. (Elk License $543 Antelope $278)

Our antelope hunts are on a ranch outside of Kenna, New Mexico on 30,455 acres.  We will only offer six tags on this ranch.  Last year’s hunt was short with every tag filled and back into the ranch house by 10:30am.  The bucks are in the 14” to 16” range with the largest buck we saw last year making it through the hunt. 

Montana Mule Deer Hunt: (5 day hunt) Two Leggins Outfitters provide Trophy hunting for big Mule deer and Antelope. The hunter will stalk for trophy Mule deer in the rougher pine covered canyons on all private ranch hunts. They offer exemplary guide services and will provide you and your hunting party with the security and the confidence that you’re getting all the best the area has to offer. Their competent staff guarantees that you’re happy with your outing, your supplies, your company, your catch, and your kill. In 2009 this outfitter went 8 for 8 with a 30 inch mulie being the largest. (This is a outfitter sponsored tag which is $1,000 but we included it in the cost of the hunt)

Northern Manitoba Fishing: (7 day Sat to Sat) The North Seal River area was the last undeveloped Canadian fishery below the tree line, almost 200 miles from the closest road. A unique area where 12 river systems merge to form over 100 lakes. The fishery is truly special -  offering Canada’s finest opportunity to enjoy trophy fishing for northern pike, lake trout, walleye, and arctic grayling in one setting.

Belize Flats Fishing: (6 nights 5 days) You too can find bliss and tarpon, bonefish, permit and jack – at this Lodge on Ambergris Caye, Belize.  For over 25 years, El Pescador Lodge has been the choice of the world’s top anglers.  Their Spanish name “El Pescador” means “the fisherman” and they cater to all types of angler, specializing in light tackle, salt water and fly fishing with all their activities concentrated on the sea, both on the reef and on the flats.

Colorado Cast and Blast: (3 day 4 night) This outfitters wing shooting experience takes place in the spectacular setting of the Colorado Rockies western slope. With private and permitted lands totaling over 200 square miles, wing shooters have an almost endless array of hunting lands to choose from.

Their waters teem with large, strong trout that will satisfy nearly every angler from novice to expert and provide a truly unique and unparalleled angling experience. Browns, rainbows, cutthroats, brooks and cuttbows swim in our private waters. Only accessed by their guests, these fish grow large and healthy amid 200 square miles of pristine wilderness. (All inclusive)

British Columbia Whitetail or Black Bear: (6 days hunting) This outfitter is located in prime deer country. We have alpine mountains, huge wooded areas, vast river bottoms, farmland (alfalfa fields, corn fields) and great climate. All these factors have helped produce a very good population of deer, with great trophy potential. (Black Bear $180 Whitetail $125 Non Res License $75)

Black bears are out in full force enjoying all of nature’s changes. The black bears have been in hibernation for 6 months, so getting something to eat is their main priority. Hunting black bear at this time of year is the best and most enjoyable, due to amount of bears and other wildlife seen during the hunt.The area we hunt consists of many roads and cuts with lots of spring forage for the bears. This is a spot & stalk hunt. We use 4×4 vehicles and walk the feeding areas to find the bears. Black, brown and blonde bears are available. Expect to see 15-30 bears in a 6 day hunt, the average harvest between 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 feet long.

http://blog.fishandhunttheworld.com/cancellation-and-discounted-trips/2010-fishing-and-hunting-specials-are-here/ 

If you have any questions on any of these give me a call Greg Ray 918 407 2586 or email me                   greg@outdoor-connection.com

Greg Ray 918 407 2586 greg@outdoor-connection.com

These are complete with all of the destinations I represent, including the newest added outfitters complete with pictures and brief descriptions.  If you would like a catalog sent to you please send me your mailing information and I will get one out to you right away.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Greg Ray

Once they receive the certificate I can help them plan their trip of a lifetime.  I will also inlcude our catalog for them to look through to help them decide what destination to go to.

Merry Christmas!

Greg Ray 918 407 2586 or email greg@outdoor-connection.com

On October 29th 2005, (a Saturday) my son Eddie (he was 6 at the time) and I had been fishing on my fathers ranch and catching more fish than normal, so we decided to stay a little longer than we were supposed to.  Little did I know but that decision very well could have saved all of our lives.  I know what your thinking. “How many guys can say that fishing actually saved their life”?

After catching and releasing the last Largemouth, I loaded Eddie up and drove home a little faster than normal. Deb was expecting us home by 5:30 so I could fire up the grill to start dinner, well it was already after 5:00 and I had a 30 minute drive, not to mention I had to take a shower to wash all the fish smell off before I started cooking dinner.

You see, normally we sit down at the dinner table between 6:00 and 6:30 pm but because I stayed to take advantage of a good evening of fishing we were running about 45 minutes late. As Deb and I were standing in the kitchen discussing the day and preparing dinner we both heard tires screeching and a loud crash.  My first thought was someone was driving to fast and hit a parked car, the instant I turned away from the back of the house to go outside and see what had happened, is when my life changed. 

There was a tremendous explosion and feeling that I almost can not describe, it happened so fast but at the same time seemed like slow motion.  A Jeep being driven by a 15 year old girl at 70 miles per hour while being chased by a police officer had lost control of the vehicle, jumped the curb, crashed through my neighbors tree (the loud noise I heard), our privacy fence, our back deck and into our home through the dining room,(this is the spot that all of us would normally be sitting to eat. I have no doubt at all that all of us would not be here today if we had been on schedule and sitting at the spot where the Jeep entered the house) all the way through the kitchen, the utility room and coming to rest on top of me with the nose of the jeep sticking out into our garage!

I was laying face down in almost complete darkness with a Jeep and debris from the house on top of me.  I was literally attached to the under carriage of the jeep by debris that had entangled itself in my clothes and the jeep, of course I did not know what had happened, all I knew is that I was in serious pain, I couldn’t breathe very well and didn’t have a clue if my wife and son were alive or dead.

Much to my relief the next thing I can hear is my wife screaming. I’m thinking, ”at least I know she is alive”.  The worst experience of my entire life is hearing her scream my sons name over and over again and not knowing what she is dealing with, not being able to move to help her was the most helpless I had ever felt.  It seemed like an eternity but I could hear other voices (neighbors) helping Deb and I could hear someone say “I’ve got him, he’s ok”.  Thinking about it today, still literally sends me in a panic unless I can go check on Eddie and see that he is ok.

My neighbors and Deb’s attention then turn to me.  I can hear debris being moved and a little light is starting to come in, I try to yell but it came out as a whisper.  I didn’t know it at the time but I had several broken ribs and one of them had punctured a lung, making it hard to breathe.  Finally I can see feet, it’s funny what you remember at a time like that but I remember seeing someone wearing black tennis shoes and thinking “who wears black tennis shoes”, anyway the first person to get under the Jeep with me was my neighbor Gary Morgan, I tried to prop myself up but immediately fell back to my chest.  I informed Gary that I thought my left arm was broken and that I could not move it.  Gary did an excellent job of keeping me calm until paramedics could get there to get me out.  As it turns out Gary loves to hunt so we surprised him with a Whitetail hunt in Illinois, you can see the story here.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSrokuQVp7o

Once paramedics and rescue arrived, they were able to get me cut lose from under the jeep on to a board and evaluate me in the yard.  I eventually made it to the hospital where I stayed in ICU for 4 days and then on to a regular room for another week.  My injuries included…

• Broken Ribs
• Punctured Lung
• Liver, kidney, gallbladder and spleen damage
• Paralyzed left arm (Nerve damage from the impact)
• Severe damage to my right foot
• Knocked out 4 teeth
• Numerous cuts, lacerations, and bruises
• Since the incident happened I have had a total of 6 surgeries, the last one just a year ago. 

Now before you start feeling to sorry for me with my injuries, I have to tell you about my unbelievably tough wife.  The night of the incident we were taken to the same hospital where she was examined and treated for her injuries then told she could go home.  Umm, we didn’t have a house to go home to.  During my entire stay in the hospital Deb had to deal with finding us a place to live, getting it furnished, hire a contractor to board up the hole in the back of our house, find a restoration company to repair the damage, start the clean up process, take care of our two kids, check in on me at the hospital, all while dealing with her injuries, not to mention all the stress that came along with it.  She is an incredible person and the foundation of our family, I am so lucky to have her in my life.

Deb and I are so thankful for all of our neighbors/friends that helped us through this process.  Gary, Keith, Greg, Mark and Bobby all literally risked their lives to help me and my family, not only was the jeep still running inside our house but the impact had ruptured the natural gas line to the house.  These guys crawled over all the debris and had to throw a brick through the back window of the jeep to be able to get in and shut the jeep off.  While all of this was going on other neighbors like Cheri,Lisa, Jennifer, Sean, Amy and I am sure many others were taking care of Deb and Eddie. 

We had over $70,000 worth of damage to our house and it was over 6 months before we were able to move back in, fortunately our neighbor directly across the street had just put her house up for sale and allowed us to rent it from her while ours was being rebuilt.  During this time neighbors and people we did not even know were bringing us meals, hung Christmas lights, my brother in law Richard and my buddy Steven stayed in our house, in the complete darkness to make sure nothing happened  and numerous other acts of kindness that we will never forget.

When this happened I was working for a company that required me to travel close to 90% of the time, I basically saw my family on weekends and that was it,  not to mention I had started my Outdoor Connection franchise and would now work it on the weekends.  It’s funny how something like this makes you reevaluate what’s important and how something good can come out of something so bad.  I’m now running my outdoor consultant business fulltime, it’s been a challenging transition but things are going well.  I am now home when I want to be, set my own schedule, see my kids on and off the school bus, take them hunting and fishing to some pretty cool destinations and spend more time with Deb, in fact probably more time than she wants.  I am very thankful for my family and friends and thankful to be here today to tell this story…  Life’s Too Short!

You can see all the pictures from the crash here Warning some of the pictures of my injuries are pretty graphic so if you have a weak stomach you might not want to see them.  http://www.facebook.com/video/?id=1261614093#/album.php?aid=15194&id=1261614093

This is a very unique hunt and gets the adrenaline pumping.  If you want more details about a gator hunt call me.

Greg Ray 918 407 2586 or email greg@outdoor-connection.com

Hello Guys,

     I just received these gator pics in the mail from Larry H. He killed 2 gators a 7 footer and 8 footer on his hunt with one of our gator outfitters in Forida.  Larry said everything was top knotch and would recommend them to anyone. Everything went like clock work, they were also very helpful in helping to get Larry’s bow set up prior to the the hunt.

Larry also said if anyone would like to call about this hunt he would be happy to be a reference.

It’s all right here in Oklahoma. This is a ranch that I have personally hunted several times and I will be going back this season 9000 acres with very little pressure, a great protein program makes for a great opportunity to harvest a TRUE free ranging fairchase whitetail trophy.  Last year an archer harvested a droptine buck that scored over 170 and I personally saw two bucks bigger than him.  Details below…..  (Only two Whitetail spots left for 2009.  We are also taking 2010 bookings now)  Be sure to check out some of the new pictures in the “Photo Gallery” under Oklahoma.

AVAILABLE DATES: October thru December

Hunts: 3 days, guided 2×1, Archery, Muzzle Load, Rifle

Includes: Lodging, Meals, Game Prep

Where: Southern OK close to Mill Creek

Rates: Whitetail $2300 (Buck, doe and Wild Boar)

One of Oklahoma’s most beautiful streams, Pennington Creek, forms from a majestic spring just off the north side of the ranch. It winds through over three miles of their ranch bringing in a wide range of wildlife, not to mention being stockpiled with Smallmouth Bass. The dense woodlands on their ranch well mixed with the open grassland offers you an excellent chance at getting your kill of a lifetime.

The managed hunting on our ranch hasstockpiled an abundance of mature whitetail bucks and Rio Grande turkeys.

You will also find an abundance of wild hogs. Hunt these wild hogs year round from any of theirr hunting zones, each setup with a tower box blind for rifle hunters, quad pod for archery hunters, spin-cast corn feeder, and a protein feeder. They feed year round, so these hogs know where their permanent food source is.

Lodging:

A clean, comfortable, easily-accessed, but secluded hunting cabin is located on the ranch. Capable of sleeping six, their hunting cabin has all the amenities of a persons home. The cabin includes a fully furnished bedroom, living room, full bath, and full kitchen, as well as a fully enclosable (depending on the weather) outdoor pavilion just outside the hunting cabin. This pavilion has gas and charcoal grills, as well as a place to sit out around the fire.

Game Processing Area:

Guests of PCHC have access to a game processing area and walk-in cooler conveniently located adjacent to the cabin.

For more information and available dates call Greg Ray 918 407 2586 or email greg@outdoor-connection.com

Whitetail Deer Hunting:

There are 9 deer hunting zones set up across the ranch. Each hunting zone is set up with a protein feeder, spin cast corn feeder (we feed year round), food plot, tower box blind, and a quad pod. The quad pods are set up close to the spin cast corn feeders in each zone for archery hunters.

This is a 3 day 3 night trip with lodging in our hunting cabin. This trip also includes all meals, with a continental breakfast in the early morning before the hunt, a full breakfast after the hunters are picked up 10:30 – 11:00, and sandwiches or burgers before the afternoon hunt.

The dinners are great at Pennington Creek Hunting Club. They may serve deer chicken fry’s and all the sides, with everything including peach cobbler cooked over the campfire! This is great fun to watch and even better to eat. One evening they will cook one of the best Rib-eye steaks you will ever eat.

After you get a kill, they will clean, skin, and hang your animal’s carcass in their walk in cooler. Before you leave they will cut out the backstraps, quarter up your kill, and send you on the way with your trophy; caped out and ready for you to take to your local taxidermist!

Deer Hunts – Black Powder, Gun or Bow:

Includes:

• Semi-guided hunts on fresh stand sites

• Range for zeroing muzzle loader or rifle

• Meals & Lodging for 3 days/3 nights in comfortable hunting cabin.

*Combo Hunt allows for 1 buck, 1 doe, 1 hog

Turkey Hunt

PCHC offers the opportunity to harvest a trophy Rio Grande tom. The only competition for your calling ability will be live hens!

 Wild Hog Hunting:

They are selling 2 day hog hunts thru the end of September and will start up again after Deer season. This hunt includes two days of stand type hog hunting from commercial blinds in front of baited holes, two nights stay in newly remodeled ranch cabin, and allows for take of two hogs each hunter. This hunting package is priced with you bringing in your own food. Full kitchen/cooking facilities or their outside grill allow your group the flexibility of preparing meals to your own liking. Also bring your favorite fishing rod and a pair of waders, and fish your heart out for Smallmouth Bass on their 3 miles of Pennington Creek. Right now is a great time to hunt hogs on their place, they have been seeing some big ones!

ALASKA PENINSULA BROWN BEAR

10 day 1×1 guided Brown Bear hunt conducted from fly-in tent camp.  The Alaskan Peninsula is home to the largest concentration of Brown Bears in the state.  The terrain is marine influenced with open tundra.  Streams with abundant Salmon runs and tidal beaches are prime hunting areas.  Hunting is conducted from tent camps adjacent to the McNeal refuge and the Katmai preserve. 

This hunt is discounted to $8,000.  You must contact me immediately if you are interested in this hunt.

Gregory Ray 918 407 2586 or email greg@outdoor-connection.com