Indiana Gazette du lieu suivant : Indiana, Pennsylvania • 23

The Indiana, PA Gazette OUTDOORC C-7 Sunday, January 7, 2001 Old friends find good times on uided elk hunts elk on separate trips to Dome Mountain Ranch in Montana, where he By JIM KLYAP JR. Dome Mountain Ranch EMIGRANT, MonL This is not about trophies on the wall or elaborate rifles and gear. This is about friendships, memories and elk hunting, all in the purest of forms. To many, hunting is hunting, but to others it is much more. I would like to preface all of the above with the fact that no matter how carefully words are chosen to describe certain situations, scenery and emotions, nothing will compare to being there.

Elk hunting is not about new scopes, hjfi-power rifles and all that junk; it is about a big heart and deiermina-tion. I moved to Montana from my home state of Pennsylvania many years ago, although it seems like only yesterday when I was in the dense lush forests of home. I am now and outfitter and guide at Dome Mountain Ranch, located in north of Yellowstone National Park. Many humbling experiences have provided me with quite an education of the wild animals as well as verifying that there is more than a lifetime of learning to come. 1 have guided many hunters in my time, yet the sweetest of memories are those of guiding a friend and, fair to say, big brother.

These memories are of equal sweetness, not only because of friendship but because of the actual events that took place. Mike Hudzickand 1 hunted together a lot in Pennsylvania. I learned a great deal from him along with other relatives and friends. I am sure Mike could tell many stories, some of which 1 hope he keeps to himself. I am also sure he would love to tell you those i am about to share.

Although it seems a long time ago. hunting is to the woods as songs are to the past. Mike began his interest in an archery hunt three years ago at an outdoors show in Harrisburg. At first 1 thought it was just talk, as a fully guided elk hunt is not cheap but that depends on how you value your dollar. 1 am certain Mike will tell you his money was well spent.

He did everything I wished every hunter would do. He practiced his shot, he read and studied, learning all he could from the boys at Sky Line Archery in Altoona. Hetriedtobein the best shape possible. He did not go out and spend money on things he would not need. Most of all, he Park plans hit stumbling block By The Associated Press PITTSBURGH A planned expansion of Roberto Clemente Park on the riverfront next to Three Rivers Stadium could hurt the habitat of up to six species of fish considered endangered or threatened, according to the Pennsylvania Fish Boat Commission.

The presence of silver chub, mooneye, longnose gar and other species of fish in the Allegheny and Ohio rivers won't slow construction of the new ballparks in Pittsburgh. But it could throw into doubt whether the riverfront park's expansion will be done in time for the first baseball game at PNC Park in April. "We're doing what we can to help the (Sports Exhibition Authority, but this is a stumbling block," Betsy Mailison, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Environmental Protection, said In a published report earlier this week. On Tuesday, representatives of the DEP. the state Fish and Boat Commission and the authority held an hour-and-a-half-long conference call to discuss what effect the construction could have on the fish habitats.

In order to create as much as 4.25 acres of land on the east end of the park, the sports authority plans to extend the existing shoreline by as much as 30 feet That could eliminate the shallow water needed by the endangered fish species Living in the Allegheny and Ohio rivers. Now, the Fish and Boat Commission is asking the authority to construct a more gentle slope from the shoreline to the river channel and put in underwater structures and man-made "reefs" as new fish habitat. The sports authority plans for the park require a permit from the state to move forward. "We have proposed mitigation because we do not expect the DEP to stop the project," said Andrew Shields, the Fish and Boat Commission's non-game and endangered species coordinator. "We want the underwater reef and shoals built in a way to give the fish more opportunities to colonize the area." The Fish and Boat Commission request, however, could slow the work on the expansion and require changes for new passenger ramps for boats nearby.

One option suggested by the DEP regional director would be to give the sports authority its permit now, with the understanding that mitigation would be performed later. "We wont release the permit for the shoreline work until this issue is Mailison said. "If they agree to do the mitigation at a later date they could have up to two years to complete the work." (On the Net: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection wvw.dep.state.pa.us) The Original Solunar Tables Bt Mjks. Richard Aidsh Km GST ReteaM week of Jan. 7-14, 2001 AM PM have guided many hunters in my time, yet the sweetest of memories are those of guiding a friend and, fair to 'ay, big brother.

These memories are of equal sweetness, not only because of friendship but because of the actual events that took place. called a whole lot and listened to what I had to say. There is only so much preparation a person can do. After all, here he was, suddenly being guided by someone whom he once guided in many ways. Mike arrived with great excitement and anticipation.

Shortly thereafter he was atop a pony at 6,000 feet in complete blackness. This type of situation not only calms a man down, but without choice places all his trust in a four-legged pony. We traversed several thousand feet before daylight through rugged terrain and black timber. Once atop the mountain we awaited daylight and planned a move. The elk were below us about a half-mile.

Through glasses we were able to predict their direction of ascent back up the mountain. Off we went on foot in an effort to "get into them." An hour or so later we bad made it in close enough to hear cows calling and bulls bugling. The only problem was that somehow they had managed to get past us and were now just above us. We had no choice but to head back up the next ravine. At some point during our climb I took a moment to look behind me.

Although right on my heels, ike did not took so good. I began to review my CPU course just in cast I also wondered how a person could look so pale and shaky. When you spend most of your life at 1,000 feet then begin your hunt the next day at 8,000 feel, you realize just how thin air can be. With pounding chests we continued calling and climbing. Each time we would get close, they would move another 100 yatds.

Eventually, after a the clamor of heavily traveled tourist It's also a good way to spend quality time together and build camaraderie between family members and an opportunity to teach outdoor skills to kids. "It's important to get the kids involved in activities, whether it's pitching in on campsite duties, learning to read a map, or exploring the surrounding area," said Scott Phillips of Old Town Canoe. "Parents have to take the time to be a kid again." Not only is a canoe trip an excellent, affordable vacation, it's something thai families can enjoy close to home because there are streams, lakes or rims near most communities And with a canoe, you can access some peaceful, secluded waters for fishing or wildlife viewing, even on a heavily traveled river. The bays and inlets off larger bodies of water are often too shallow for boats. But a canoe can glide through four or five inches of water easily, to reach a hot Mike hudzick of Commodore bagged was guided by tongrrme friend Jim painful climb we found ourselves finally right in them.

In the shadows of the timber were the sounds, sights and smells that can best be described as Jurassic Park. All around us were elk. Each move we made was careful, slow and quiet Several bulls began to gain interest In our persistent calls. We could see perhaps only 40 yards in all directions. Occasionally a cow or spike would walk by, just a few yards away as we lay still.

Then, just above us was a more serious elk, one that began bugling loud and hard, raking trees with antlers. We continued to call and pursue. As I hunkered below a rock and bush with one last cow call 1 saw Mike several yards across from me draw back his bow. Although I could not see the elk I knew the look all too well the release of the arrow, the sound of a true hit and the crashing just a few feet above me. I bugled one more time to hear the bull stop in the shale and downed timber, then fall.

At this point there is no way to give justice to elation felt by the reality of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Less than 10 percent of all archery hunters harvest an elk with a bow. Now my best friend had just done this in only a few hours. Once the glory is over the fun really begins. Moving more than 500 pounds of animal down a 70- degree slope might sound easy; I assure you it is not At 9 p.m.

the horses were packed and we made our way out. Mike would return again the following year. The first thing we ac fishing spot or a peaceful nature area for a family picnic. "Canoeing allows people the opportunity to see nature in its purest form," said Phillips. "Ifs not unusual to come upon a nest of loons or ducks along a riverbank or to spot a herd of deer on a shoreline, even right outside the bigger cities.

"I've had deer actually walk toward me with their ears up. Because a canoe is so silent, they can't quite identify what you are and are curious." With the right canoe, families can enjoy a peaceful drift down a river as well as rugged canoe camping or fishing in lake country. Phillips recommends a good all-around, versatile canoe that can be used in various waters: one that is fairly wide, 36-40 inches, with a shallow arch bottom and a moderately curved rocker the curve of the keel line from bow to stem. This style offers stability and works well on waves and some Whitewater. It can also be maneuvered easily around obstacles and has good a (Dome Mountain Ranch photo) had yet to see if there was a bull in the group.

I called to them one time and saw the antlers of a small brush bull Not that we were picky, but I turned to Mike and motioned this to him. I called again, only this time gleaming in the Light were the antlers of a much bigger bull. I had enough time to turn and tell Mike to get ready. Mike knocked an arrow and whispered, "Where is he?" I told him he would see in a second The large bull was corning straight at us. I at least had the tree for cover, but Mike had nothing but his camo and some brush.

From the comer of my eye 1 saw the bull looking directly at us. Then there was that other look as the bow was drawn back and the arrow released. The flight of tliis arrow was also true. At that point hunter and guide try not to throw up and to remember to breathe again. The elk ran about 75 yards and expired.

The wait for certainty was a long one. Mike had harvested a nice elk in his second year. Although these are just two stories of successful elk hunts, it will always be more to us. We had a rare experience, something mat dreams are made ot. No one can ever forget the look, the feeling and each moment spent with these incredible creatures.

I am sure Mike will return again, and elk or not, there will be more stories to tell. (For information on Dome Mountain Ranch, call 1-800-313-4868. On the Net: www.domemountain-ranch.com) and beverages and avoid unnecessary sore muscles. Be careful of dangerous waters. Rushing water and underwater currents are stronger than you might anticipate, not to mention the danger of jutting rocks.

Some Whitewater is OK, but you might not have the right canoe to maneuver properly. Not only is it unsafe, it can be very frightening for everyone on board. Everyone in the canoe should wear a proper-fitting personal notation device. Don't rely on your ability to swim. Staying In a wilderness area accessed by canoe is a radically different experience from a convenient campground.

A forgotten item cannot be retrieved at the camp store. Be sure to plan ahead, bringing essentials for weather changes, shelter, clothing, food, beverage and first aid. Leave a detailed itinerary of your plans with friends or family at home so someone knows where you are at all times. Ktyap Jr. cepted was that what happened aver year ago would not very likely happen again.

This was the case. I guess the elk decided we had not yet paid that price. We rode and walked a lot for four days up ravines, through timber, into creek bottoms. We would often get close, but this year the bulls were less active and had many cows with which to contend. On the fourth day we decided to Leave them alone and head as far back in as we could.

It was a cold morning with a thick cover of snow and frost. We decided to leave the ponies behind and go it on foot. With bodies pushed to the limit of exhaustion, hearts hurting and heads pounding we began hiking along the eastern ridge of the mountain. Our intention was to go to the far side of the mountain and sidehill to the top along a horse trail. Our legs were not cooperating as they had in days before, yet there is something in every hunter that I am convinced is the defining factor for success.

It is that will to continue on and to believe. After climbing to first bench and dropping to our knees for a rest I saw the ears of a silent and bedded cow just 75 yards away in the morning sun. It just so happened that she too saw me. I slowly lowered myself into the high grass, trying my best to not look too human. 1 was between Mike and the elk, and between us and them was a large pine.

Once out of their site I worked my way directly against the tree. Looking back at Mike 1 saw that pale look I had so often seen. I tracking ability. Besides having the right canoe, a good attitude will make the trip worthwhile for the whole family-Phillips offered these suggestions for getting the most out of a canoe camping trip: Pre-plan the trip so that you can enjoy a leisure time instead of a mad rush. Take your time getting to the destination.

Stop for breaks along the way to see points of interest, dine at a good restaurant or hike at a state park. Don't make it hard for the kids. Allow them to pitch in where necessary to cany lightweight gear or set up a campsite. Let the adults handle the harder jobs: loading and unloading the canoe, paddling and portaging, hauling heavy gear. Remember, the kids should enjoy themselves and take with them some wonderful memories.

Oon't take risks by paddling all day until everyone is exhausted or waiting until sunset to find a campsite. Take plenty of breaks for snacks Think spring, and get ready for canoe trip Excursions can provide enjoyable, affordable vacation By JEFF KNAPP Gazette Outdoors Writer No one knows for sure when canoeing went from a necessary form of travel to a leisure activity, but the early travelers must have enjoyed tlte peaceful, reflective time on the water as much as today's recreational canoers. Canoeing, combined with other activities, such as camping and fishing, has become an increasingly popular sport for families. Today, many families are leaving boat and camper behind and venturing into the wilderness with a canoe and some outdoor gear to enjoy a peaceful, solitary vacation. The advantage is an affordable escape from the hustle of daily life and VmSm Pay Minor Utjor Minor Uor 177 Su 2:25 8:35 2:45 0:05 18 3:20 9:30 3:40 10:00 IrS 4:15 10:30 4:40 11 11Q 5:20 11:40 5:50 111 Th 635 12:15 7:00 12:45 112 7:30 1:20 1:50 1H3 6:30 2:20 9.05 2:50 WA Su 8:30 3:20 10:00 3:45 aniiihiMM)MMkM Treks into outdoors don't end during winter layers of wool or polar fleece provide a lot of warmth and do not loose their insulating abilities if they get weL Winter treks in the woods are a lot of fun, and with a minimal amount of precaution, are a great way to get rid of that cabin fever.

Fishing derby set By ROB STREETER Albany Times Union For the die-hards, winter doesn't end the backcountry excursions. Instead, the hiking boots and canoes give way to snowshoes and cross-country skis. Winter hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are fun sports enjoyed by thousands with complete safety. Sometimes, though, participants can Rnd themselves in a great deal of unexpected trouble. But you can enjoy winter treks in the woods safely by foiling a few simple rules.

First, before venturing on a winter excursion, make sure that someone at home knows exactly where you will be going, and when you will mum. This applies whether you are going across the local fields for a quick sW outing, or are going snowshoeing in the mountains. The schedule of Solunar Periods has been taken from Mrs. Richard Alden Knight's Solunar Tables. Plan your days so trial you will fish in good territory or hunt in good cover during those times if you would like to find the best sport that each day has to offer.

The Major Periods begin at the times shown at (eft and last for an hour and a half or two hours thereafter. The Minor Periods are of somewhat shorter duration. INJURED? WE CAN HELP HotER, Clark A 0 AT LAW small flashlight, a space blanket that can be made into an emergency shelter, some matches in a waterproof container, pencil shavings and a candle to start a fire, some high-energy food and a canteen of water can be well worth their weight if you ever need them. Another item that has become a common fixture in our lives, the cellular phone, is a great survival tool if you happen to carry one. One way that people can get themselves in a lot of trouble on a winter outing is by underestimating the time it will take to get back.

Often, they are having a great time in the woods and push themselves a little too far, making it impossible to get out during daylight. Plan the trip to give yourself a comfortable amount of time to get back to the car at the end of the day. The idea is to enjoy yourself, not to scramble in the last hour of daylight as you try to snowshoe the last two miles back to your vehicle. The clothes that you wear also can help make a winter outing more comfortable. Keeping dry is important, for obvious reasons.

Most seasoned outdoors enthusiasts prefer polypropylene socks and long underwear for their ability to wick moisture away from the skin. Outer If there are sign-in boxes along hiking and cross-country ski trails, always take the dme to use them. If the ranger on patrol finds a car, he or she will check the trail register to see who has not come back out. Leave someone a specific plan for your day, including where you're headed and, if possible, a photocopy of a map that shows exacUy where you intend to spend the day. as well as a time for your return.

It's also not a good idea to go alone. A solo cross-country ski trip with the snow all aghtter sounds great, but all it takes is one fall five miles from the nearest road to rum a great adventure into a life-threatening disaster. There is safety innumbers-Intheeventofan accident, having someone else along who can go for help might make the difference between life and death in the woods. The final precaution is to take along a day-pack with enough essentials to be able to spend a relatively comfortable night in the woods. Nobody expects to go into the woods and break a leg.

but some foresight, and a few essentials, can make the difference. A survival kit needn't be burdensome to carry A small first-aid kit, an extra jacket, a at Twin Lakes GREENSBTJRG A free winter fishing derby will be held at Twin Lakes Park on Sunday, Jan. 21, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. If the lower lake has a safe layer of ice, the event will take place as an ice-fishing derby. The derby will be postponed only in the event of unsafe ice conditions.

Prizes will be awarded in several categories. Registration Mil be held the day of die event at 7.30 a.m. at the boat house. Additional derbies are scheduled for Sunday, April 29. at Mammoth Park, and Sunday, May 20, at North mo reland Park.

For more information, call 832-7735. Report.your outdoors to the Gazette sports by calling (724) news desk.