Frederick Maryland Hunt 2/20/10

[John Akehurst]

CFC member Jim Thomas invited me out to far Western Maryland for a goose hunt this past Saturday.

Within the last 21/2 weeks our state has been hit with 4 back to back snow storms blanketing everything with a total of over 4 feet of snow.

To say the least it was a work out to get 2 dozen decoys, layout blinds, mutt hut and the rest of the gear 200 yards out into the field (and back).  One moment you'd be walking on top of the snow and the next minute you'd fall through with snow up over your knees.

Outside the workout, it was a great time in the field with Jim and his friend.  Jim's friend had along Jack his dog.  It was great to see such a fine dog.  And we were thankfull to have Jack as he was able to retrieve a bird that had sailed at least 300 yards maybe more.  I was even more excited to see all the birds were of the Giant species as I am mostly accustomed to the lessers.

Sorry, I didn't take more pics as I left my camera in the truck and it was too much work to go back and get it.  Here's a pic from my phone of the first bird that came down.




Thanks to Jim for the invite and the opportunity!

[NZgoose]

 Were there many flying for you and how may brids did you get all up John?
 Well next weekendI'm of for a goose shoot but its summer here so well feel the heat not that cold snow Stuff !
  Russell

[John Akehurst]

They were flying pretty ok.  We set up in one location and then the landowner's grandson set up about 150 yards from us.  Total between us it was 7.  There was a pair that set in between us that we couldn't get to.  Even though the grandson tried to sneak up on them.  My imediate party or set up harvested 3.