Fred Lutger is the owner of Freddie
Bear Sports pro shop and Online Store
as well as Fred
Lutger's Wilderness bowhunts. One of the highlights of the NWTF convention is the seminars. Alex Rutledge,
National Pro Staff member for Hunter Specialties, did a seminar for turkey
hunting guides. He gave tips and pointers about turkey hunting and about
guide/hunter relations. His tips are also useful when buddies are hunting
together.
Alex Rutledge giving his seminar on Tips for Guides at the 2006 NWTF Convention
Alex suggests hunters should separate when using locator calls. This will
give both of you a better chance to hear a distant gobble that the other
person might not have heard. Also you won't miss a gobble if the other
person makes a noise that will cover up a faint gobble.
When setting up,
Rutledge reminds guides to sit close to the hunter to be able to better
control what the hunter does. Verbal communication is important. Let the
hunter know if he moves too much. Cue the hunter when to get his gun at
ready. Most of all, let him know when the bird is in range and when to
shoot.
"Gobblers don't always respond to a hunters' calling with a gobble,"
Rutledge said. "But they respond in other ways. They will strut, they will
look towards the caller and some will at times run to the caller silently.
These are all things we know and the reason we must keep the hunter still."
Alex again emphasized the need to coach the hunter. "Keep the hunter calm."
"Year round supplemental feeding creates a healthier flock. Also plant food
plots." were Rutledge's suggestions for more birds on your hunting grounds.
I talked with Alex after the seminar and asked if he had seen any changes in
turkey hunting in the last couple years.
Alex Rutledge (left) being interviewed by Fred Lutger (right)
"I've seen a huge increase of
hunters and also the turkey population. Always be safe when hunting."
Rutledge also wants to remind us all to share the outdoors with someone we
love. "Hunting is not about shooting the most animals." he said. "It is about hunting
memories and passing on the hunting tradition. Always remember God, family
and country."
Alex lives in southern MO with his wife and daughter. He has been a turkey
hunter for 37 years.
Thanks, Alex. I really enjoyed your knowledge, humor and enthusiasm. I'm
heading back to the show floor to check out more happenings. The NWTF Convention is a great
show!
