Walleye in the Ozarks?

Jim Cox is Mr. Walleye in these parts

Most people arent aware that we have nice Walleyes right here in the Ozarks. Stockton, Bull Shoals, Tablerock, and even the Spring River are just a few of the waters that are home to these tasty fish.
Team Turnage member Jim Cox convinced me earlier this winter that you can catch a limit of Walleye and Sauger on any given morning when the waters' right.
When I slid our G3 Eagle 185 in the water that morning, I couldnt help but think there was no way Walleye or Sauger inhabited these waters. Was I ever wrong! Within the first few minutes, Jim had one on and with the taste of crow in my mouth he proved that yes, we too have "Eyes" in the Ozarks.
Stick baits, jigs, and grubs are effective but live bait such as "slicks" are the choice of most anglers in this area. Split shottin' is the most effective method and when the weather is the most brutal is when the really big ones are caught.
Hook up with us on an upcoming episode and watch Jim show me how to catch some nice "Eyes" on live bait drifting the Spring River in Northern Ark.
Sunday mornings at 8am on FSN Midwest.

Capt. Rick LaPoint is the Fishin Magician

Rick Knows Crappie!!!

If you love to catch crappie (most of us do) and lots of them, then Tablerock Lake in SW Missouri is as hot as anywhere. Located near Branson MO, you can bring the whole family to one of the most popular tourist locations in the U.S. and not only see and enjoy all the Ozarks can offer but now you can get a little fishing in too!
Team Turnage member Capt. Rick LaPoint (www.strikebass.com) is a licensed guide on Tablerock and Taneycomo lakes. His knowledge and experience in catching bass, crappie, and trout will be to your benefit if youd like to get a day in fishing while visiting this beautiful area.
He invited me to bring along the camera and quickly showed that he could catch crappie several different ways. This was his first time in my G3 Eagle 175 and with Yamaha's 75 hp 4 stroke, we had plenty of power to scat us all over Tablerock Lake. We caught fish in open water, bluff ledges, and river arms. Small jigs with 1/16oz heads were the baits of choice and anywhere Rick pulled into, whether over brush or graphing suspended fish, he showed me why they call him (in these parts) Capt. Crappie!
Rick would love nothing better than to have the whole family join him on the water and you will certainly have an enjoyable time fishing with him. Not only will you catch fish but you can learn some techniques that may be useful on your own home lake too.
Give Capt. Rick a call (417-861-3899) and reserve what could be the trip of a lifetime.
Watch for Capt. Rick in several episodes on the G3 Sportsman on FSN Midwest. Sunday mornings at 8am.

It's definitely "Never Too Late To Learn" Archery

Swamp Swine

My first bow hunt and it couldn't have been in a more beautiful place.
John Phillipoff of Waverly Timber Plantation (Waverly GA) invited Team Turnage member Ryan Baker and myself down to his Georgia farm to hunt hogs.
I wasn't aware that it could be this exciting. Wading through swamps was not my idea of fun (at first) but once we stalked our first hog I couldn't wait to find another one. In all we harvested several and I think John and Ryan were more excited about my first bow hunt than I was.
I started my quest to become a bow hunter this past January and with the help of Jerry Pulliam (Jerry's Custom Archery) of Birch Tree MO setting my bow up perfectly and shooting countless arrows into my Block targets, I was confident that when the opportunity arose I would be ready...and ready I was!
Without question, my Hoyt VTEC was the reason I chose to start bow hunting. They are undoubtedly the easiest bow to learn to shoot with. Dead on accurate and quiet as a church mouse.
Guys, if you're wanting to get started in archery, start with Hoyt. Ill save you allot of time looking at bows. Trust me, if "I" can do this, you definitely can. Get you some Easton arrows and some Spitfire broadheads and you'll be a deadly bow hunter before you know it.
Check out this episode on my show in early 2006 on FSN Midwest.
Sundays at 8am.

Holiday Goose Hunting

If there is anything better than a watchin big Canada Geese circle your blind, Ive not found it.
We are blessed here in the Midwest to have huge numbers of these majestic flyers and getting the opportunity to try and convince them to drop into a spread of decoys is my way of spending time outdoors.
During the holiday season is the prime time for goose hunting. Normally, by now the migration has begun and numbers of geese are heading south.
Watch the skies in early November and you should start seeing the first arrivals. Drag out those decoys or get to the store and pick up a few. Find that old call your wife hates to hear and get the camo out of the attic...its goose season!
Now most people think you have to hunt a refuge or a big lake in order to bag geese. Thats not always the case. I like a smaller concentrated area that draws smaller groups of geese. They are far more easier to call in and you're not shooting into a huge bunch. This can be confusing and it seems you are shooting at the group and not singling out one goose.
You wont be successful everytime out but with a few decoys and good call you'll be having the time of your life watching these beautiful birds work their way down towards you.
I love this time of year and I hope you get the chance to experience waterfowling soon.

Photo by Steve Matt

Never Too Late To Learn Bow Hunting

Me, a Bow Hunter?

Who'd a thunk it! Later on this season I'll continue the series (Never Too Late To Learn) of my quest to become a bow hunter.
This year is going to be exciting, confusing, and fun. For all you guys that have never tried to bow hunt, you'll get the opportunity to watch a true beginner. It will be more different than other how-to videos because, you that want to learn will get the chance to watch what its like to actually see a hunter fullfill his dream to become an accomplished archer.
It'll be a crazy ride but I think once you see how simple it is to learn, you too may want to start your own quest to become a bow hunter.
Shooting a bow has never been easier. The equipment is the best its ever been and once you get your bow set up, you can almost immediately become a decent archer.
If your wanting to get started in this great sport or looking to upgrade your equipment, check out the sponsors that will make this series possible and see all they have to offer.
Keep up with my progress and compare yours to mine. For the already accomplished, maybe I can remind you of all you went through during your quest.
We'll see how it all works out and let me know what you think and feel free to give me some tips.

Winter is time for BIG Trout

If you like to catch trout, no wait, REALLY BIG TROUT, then the upcoming colder weather months are ideal.
From Alaska to Arkansas, the big rainbows and browns will be on a feeding frenzy before spawn. These next few months are prime for you to land the trophy you've been waiting for. I know we are more comfortable in warmer climates but you'll have to sacrifice a little in order to catch these monsters.
A number of different baits will work but most all will require the same presentation....a slow, or drifting-popping action. White maribou jigs work as well as any but Countdown Rapalas can be effective in current.
Pictured here is Team Turnage member Steve Matt (RW Eagles) posing with one of the monsters he caught on a recent trip to Alaska along with his brother Paul.
According to Steve, no other part of the country can offer this many huge trout. The scenery alone is worth the trip and if you have the means it is definately worth the expense.
Here in the Ozarks, the White river is the premier waterway for monster browns. The cold winter months can offer the angler some unbelieveable action and you can probably catch a glimpse of a number of bald eagles that spend their winters in this area.
Dont put this type of fishing off any longer. You should really give it a try.
Watch for Steve in a few episodes of the Midwest Sportsmen in 2006.
Sunday mornings at 8am on FSN Midwest.

No wonder Dorothy didnt want to leave Kansas

My first Kansas Pheasant hunt.

My good friends Dave Krien (Coyote Jakes) and the editors of the Varmint Hunter Magazine, Jeff and Jackie Rheborg invited me to Kansas for a good old fashion Pheasant hunt.
The scenery was unbelievable and I couldnt have been in the company of any finer folks.
Pheasant hunting out there was definately good for the heart. The walking was plentiful and I couldnt have gotten a better cardio work-out. Your hunting adventures will not be complete until you experience the hunting there.
While there I got a hands on look at the quality and craftsmanship of the Coyote Jakes shooting stands and got the skinny on what it takes to edit a quality magazine like the Varmint Hunter.
Check out both their websites and learn more about these two fine companies.

Its time for Small Jaws

If you are as excited about big small mouth as I am then you know that as the weather cools the fishing gets hot.
As fall approaches ole small jaws starts his feeding frenzy. Shad begin to ball up and enter the coves and so do the big smallies. Dig those spoons or crankbaits out of the tackle box and look for bait fish. Chances are when you find shad you'll find small mouth.
River fishing can be REALLY good, especially below dams. When they generate water through the turbines this will push the bait fish towards the banks and smallies lie and wait to ambush them.
If you prefer fishing with live bait, then this is the best time to do it. Store bought minnows work well but catching your own is best. Throw nets can be a little tough to master but not impossible to learn...just some practice.
Most trophy small mouth are caught in the fall and winter months, so when all your buddies are in the woods hunting you'll have the lake to yourself and the odds will be in your favor to land that monster brownie!
Good luck and go get 'em.

Beaver Lake AR is the place for Stripers

Striper Action Is Hot!!!!!!

I have been sriper fishin many times but never have I gotten into so many on one trip. If you have never experienced striper fishin, then you need to call JoeFarkas with Joe's Striper Guide Service on Beaver Lake in NW Arkansas. (www.joesstriperguide.com)
Without question, you will have the time of your life reelin in these monster fish. We caught over 20 fish ranging from 15-25lbs...before 9 am! Dont waste any more time, give Joe a call now at 1-479-640-2386 and get in on this great fun.
He can set you up with lodging and furnishes all the equipment. All you need to bring is an appetite for catchin fish.
Look for this show in the January 2006 line-up of the MidwestSportsmen on FSN Midwest.
Sunday mornings at 8am.

Lake of the Ozarks has BIG CATS!

Jeff Williams/Osage Guide Service

Re-introduce yourself with catfishing. I did this spring with Jeff Williams of Osage Guide Service on Lake of the Ozarks.
Jeff is a professional licensed catfish guide and has been featured in numerous articles and appeared on several outdoor shows. His knowledge of ole Mr. Whiskers has earned him the reputation of being one of the premiere catfish authorities and has brought people from all over the nation to Lake of the Ozarks.
This is not the cat fishin we grew up doing. We've all caught cats but most of us remember sitting on the bank using worms, liver, or stink bait. Stuck our poles in the ground and waited for the rod the jiggle. This kinda method still works but if you want to virtually catch cats ALL DAY long then Jeff is the man to go with.
Blues and Flatheads are his specialty and he can have you in some trophy size fish immediately. The action is tremendous and these monsters fight unbelievably hard.
If your looking for a change from the norm, then give catfishing a try. They dont call them the "kings of the deep" for nothing. This is as good as it gets. Lots of fish and lots of fun.
You should enjoy watchin all this action on my show in early 2006 on FSN Midwest.
Sundays at 8 am.
Book your trip now by calling Jeff at 1-866-466-5738 or go online at www.catfish-guide.com

Coyote Jakes Shooting Stands

Shooting stands like no other

The bar has been raised. Coyote Jakes has now added a new stand to its already popular line-up. The new ultra bench lite weighs a mere 45 pounds! Teamed with the "Shooting Buddy" rest and you'll have the ultimate shooting stand set-up.
David Krien (President) has field tested these light weight stands and the ultra lite held up in the most rugged terrain and conditions.
If you're into shooting sports, the Coyote Jakes shooting stand will give you the edge in your next tournament by offering the most steady of rests and comfortable free motion seating.
Easy and quick assembly means you can take this stand to the field for a varmint hunting and target shooting.
Check out the original Ultra Bench and the Ultra Lite at www.coyotejakes.com or by phone 1-785-650-4770.

FoxPro Keeps Getting Better!

Rodent and Turkey

FoxPro Game Systems has now introduced their newest items to help you harvest more game. The new remote rodent and turkey decoys are the bomb!
If you want your coyotes to come in closer than ever then you've got to try the remote control rodent decoy. The "Jack-In-The-Box" decoy system offers you the luxury of not only having a decoy but one that can offer movement. You can set it to continuous motion or click on the timer and the decoy will run in different intervals. Hook the box into the FoxPro Game Call and you can now control your decoy with remote control.
Turkey hunters can use it with decoys (such as FeatherFlex) to get even the most wariest gobbler to take a closer look. (Check regulations in your state)
If you are lookin for excitement or just need an edge, give the "Jack-In-The-Box" a try and you'll definitely carry more game home. Check 'em out at www.gofoxpro.com.

Kansas is the state for Rio's

Gus Bader of Tri Star Shotguns

Kansas is famous for huge deer and the hunters wait patiently at the mailbox for their tags. The state is also known for havin an unbelievable population of pheasants and a varmint hunters' paradise.
Now what once was a secret is slowing becoming common knowledge about the exciting turkey hunting throughout this great state. For us here in the Ozarks its definately a treat to get away from these pesky Easterns and go after their cousin...the Rio.
Guss Bader of Tri Star Shotguns met me in El Dorado (20 miles north of Wichita KS) on a cold, rainy, windy, miserable day this past April. We located 3 big toms on an old railroad bed near an abandoned quarry and set up in a small clump of cedars. With a few strokes of my Primos double cutter box call we heard the answer we were looking for and they started heading our way. Grouped with several hens and jakes it took a little coaxing with my Power Crystal slate to make them feel at ease and they headed straight for Guss. Using Fiocchi Turkey Mag 5's, Guss had no problem droppin this fine trophy.
Check out all the new Tri Star shotguns at www.tristarsportingarms.com the best turkey calls made at www.primos.com and get set up right for your next turkey hunt.

Crazy Tactics for Silent Gobblers

Mark Lamb

Having trouble getting a long beard? Gobblin on the roost but going silent once he hits the ground. Wont come to you regardless of what you throw at him? I feel your pain but I may have an old trick for you to try that my Grandpa used to do.
First, locate your gobblers roost. After dark bust the tom from the tree and seperate him from his hens. (You may bust them all but that wont matter) He has probably been with the same hens for a while and will want to get back with them at first light.
Set up between him and the hens (or as best you can) very early the next morning and chances are that old love sick tom may answer and come to your decoy. We used the Primos Ole Glory slate to get this big boys' blood boiling and walked him on in with their new PiggyBack mouth call.
Now I'm not saying this is a fool proof way of harvesting a turkey but when you run out of options, give this a try. It worked for us....this time anyway.

Turkey Hunters please read

No Pain Means More Game

As all of you Turkey hunters know, your knees take a beating chasing those crazy gobblers. Can you think of just one time that you werent kneeling or crawling during your pursuit of a long beard? I didnt think so. Well, now you dont have to sacrifice comfort in order to harvest that big tom.
Game Crawler knee pads are comfortable, durable, and waterproof. Easy on and off velcro straps means you can put them on right over your clothes. The soft camo fabric will blend in with any pattern you hunt with and you can virtually leave them on for the entire hunt.
They're also handy around the house or shop too. Workin in the yard or on your car, hey with the Game Crawlers you'll never stress your knees again.
You cant spend 20 bucks on a better hunting aid and your going to love the fact that you can now sneak up on your game quieter and more comfortable. Click on the website (www.gamecrawlers.com) and order a pair. There are allot of gimmicks out there but this one is a necessity.

Big Tom for Little Bo

The opening day of the Missouri youth turkey season (April 9-10) was a success for young hunter Bo Jacobson. Hunting on his familys' farm near Bolivar MO, I had the priviledge to tag along with this young man, his dad Tim, and Rick Lowery opening morning.
The turkeys were not wanting to cooperate and Rick used every call he could come up with trying to get an old gobbler to respond. They were as quiet as a church mouse and the only way we could get close to one was to spot and stalk.
We located 6 big toms together in a field surrounded by woods and luckily were able to sneak in un-noticed in front of the long beards. The big gobs (walking in single file) came in quietly and when the lead bird got into the open Bo fired his Fiocchi 3" #4's perfectly.
Weighing in at 23lbs, it was Bo's first mature gobbler. He is now an accomplished turkey hunter and you can bet he'll be out there when our season opens on the 18th.
Well, its off to Arkansas to try and bag a turkey of my own around Norfork Lake. I'll keep you posted.
Bo

A magazine for the shooter

Varmint Hunter Magazine

If you are into hunting, guns, and ammo then the Varmint Hunter Magazine will have something of interest for you.
Full color articles on the latest gear and hunts from sportsmen across the country. Updates on all shooting sports along with ideas and information about how to become a better shooter or hunter.
This is not "just" another magazine. The Varmint Hunter is a must read for even the most discriminating hunter. Calls, hand loading, humor, customizing, hey if it involves shooting and predator hunting, the Varmint Hunter will have just what your looking for.
Order your subscription by calling 1-800-528-4868 or go online at www.varminthunter.org.

This kind of fishing will "grab" you.

Lee Jernigan

An age old tradition here in the Ozarks is "sucker grabbin". People in these parts flock to the streams and rivers in March to try and snag sucker fish.
The sucker is a bottom feeding fish (similar to the carp) that migrate upstream in small rivers and/or creeks to spawn. Traveling in schools, these fish can number in the hundreds and offer the fisherman a very good chance to limit out (20).
The procedure seems simple. Locate your fish, cast a line consisting of a 1-1 1/2 oz sinker with two #4 treble hooks in the vicinity of the school. When a fish passes between the sinker and the hooks, jerk the rod tip up swiftly to snag the fish.
This method was created due in part because this type of fish will seldom bite at bait from a hook. It does take some practice and not as easy as it seems. Once you get the hang of it, it usually doesnt take long to limit out and it is some kind of fun.
Using a higher vantage will help in locating fish below in the clear water. Most will try and find a small bluff or bring a step ladder to set in the stream. Having good balance is crucial.
After you've filled your stringer its then time to clean the fish (usually at the stream) and another household item is used...an ironing board. The old metal ones are preferred and make ideal filet platforms. Scale all the fish first then filet leaving the skin on. Cut out the rib cage and fins, score the meat, dip in meal, and throw them in the grease. A better fish you'll not eat! I'll air a sucker grabbin show this summer and though it may appear hillbilly, its without doubt one of the most entertaining ways of catching fish. Check it out.

Varmint Hunter Association Youth Hunt

Eddy Belka & Jeff Rheborg

The winner of the Varmint Hunter Association (Eddy Belka of Utah) youth coyote hunt drawing got the opportunity to harvest his first coyote this past February near Pierre SD.
The first annual drawing was a success according to Varmint Hunter Magazine editor Jeff Rheborg. Sponsor Barnes Bullets flew Eddy and his dad to Pierre to hunt with coyote legend David Krien of Coyote Jakes Shooting Stands.
If your interested in the next youth hunt or any other event, contact the Varmint Hunter Association at 1-800-528-4868 or www.varminthunter.org