Mixed reviews for dove opener
Sept. 1 brought about the opening of dove season, but also brought something we needed in June and July — rain. I know that cut down the number of hunters that would normally have hunted that day, but the results I received have been mixed. I called over to the Hennepin Canal Parkway to check their harvest and it wasn’t outstanding. On opening day, there were only two hunters and they got three birds.
At Mautino Fish and Wildlife Area, there were 20 hunters on Saturday and they harvested 84 birds, but the next day saw little action with only seven birds taken.
I also asked how the canal fishing was doing and the report there was: We have seen quite a few more boats on the canal, but no one has stopped by to report their luck.
We had several members of the PHS Sportsman’s Club try their luck on opening day of dove season and I am happy to report they brought back limits. The trio of Cordell Kunkel, Austin Schindel and Nick Rolando braved the elements and each brought back a limit of doves. They hunted on a local farm. Garrett Costello and Turner Jamison traveled to Johnson Sauk Trail where the two of them limited out also. Kyle and Ryan Grieff and some friends tried another farm but only got a few.
I’m proud of all of these guys because the sport of dove hunting can be a humbling experience. Securing five limits proves they’re pretty good shots. Nice going, guys.
Oct. 1 will be the opening of the deer archery season There was a drawing this summer and all the spots are taken at the canal but you can still get a permit for Mautino’s if you go online. Try dnr.state.il.us or Illinois Department of Natural Resources for info.
I know I’m jumping a little ahead, but the Ducks Unlimited banquet will soon be here. I’ll give more info next time. But while I talked to Brett Brown the other day, he described the main attraction shotgun to me and it sounds like a dream. Since DU is celebrating its 75th anniversary, they have chosen a Browning Maxus and Brett said the etching is just fabulous. He told me he had never seen such a beautiful gun. I can’t wait to see this fine firearm.
I am seeking info from hunters as to how they have done with squirrels and early season duck and goose hunting. Email me at pdub52@gmail.com. Pictures appreciated also.
Lee Wahlgren is the BCR outdoor columnist.
