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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: JARHEAD1371 on March 31, 2018, 07:46:10 PM

Title: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on March 31, 2018, 07:46:10 PM
Since there are so many missing pics on so many threads, thanks to photobucket, let's put some up here. I'm slated to be there the first week of June for my first bear hunt. I've read a lot of threads, but without pics of the place, people, and bears, they don't have the same effect.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 04, 2018, 10:44:59 PM
picture from 2017 Stickflingers hunt.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 04, 2018, 10:48:19 PM
Another picture from 2017 hunt at Stickflingers.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 04, 2018, 10:50:20 PM
One more picture from my 2017 Stickflingers hunt.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 04, 2018, 11:27:42 PM
Young blonde bear takes a nap 15 yards from my treestand.  ([attachment=1]Stickflingers 2017).
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 04, 2018, 11:36:10 PM
After three exciting days of watching bears come and go on different stands, I shoot bear number 23 who followed a sow to the bait site![attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on April 05, 2018, 07:27:35 AM
Ryan you will have a great time. Last year was my first time there and I shared a camp with Mike... great guy. I wrote up my story, Ill link it here the photos should still be there.

http://www.tradgang.com/tgsmf/index.php?topic=106325.100
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Herdbull on April 05, 2018, 10:12:50 AM
A great place to experience bears up close. Ryan and team are awesome.  Mike

[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Herdbull on April 05, 2018, 10:14:38 AM
[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Herdbull on April 05, 2018, 10:16:26 AM
The gang
[attachment=2]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Herdbull on April 05, 2018, 10:18:38 AM
Very good bear.
[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Herdbull on April 05, 2018, 10:21:32 AM
Good number of color phase. Mike

[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on April 05, 2018, 10:42:06 AM
wow great photos Mike... thanks for sharing them... fun to see. Those really big bear are something else. I looked at so many photos before I went but it was hard for me to really appreciate their mass until I was kneeling in the leaves beside BowMikes bear.
I felt like I learned so much and I'm looking forward to another hunt.
I even saw my first moose there :)
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: RIVERWOLF on April 05, 2018, 11:37:04 AM
...Great looking location , and some "Huge" beautiful Bears !

Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: 6feathers on April 05, 2018, 07:53:45 PM
(http://i.imgur.com/oaTzTFU.jpg) (https://imgur.com/oaTzTFU)
2016
Also successful in 2017 and will be there May 20, 2018 for another round with the bears
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on April 05, 2018, 09:08:40 PM
[attachment=1,msg2790108]
Here is mine.  I got it back from the taxidermist A couple of months ago.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on April 05, 2018, 09:25:23 PM
He shrunk a  bit at the taxidermist. Sorry, pic of a pic.
[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on April 06, 2018, 08:36:05 AM
Great pictures guys!  Just what I needed to get me going.  I will be up at Ryan's again May 27 for my fourth trip.  It is a great place.  Now I have to figure out the new picture process on TG.

D.P.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on April 06, 2018, 10:53:56 AM
Dave,
I am very jealous of guys going back up to Ryan's place.  Wish I could but not going to happen for awhile.

Re: pictures,  I reduced the size of photo my Samsung takes and that solved the problem for me.  Just follow Tony's four steps. Much easier than before.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: drewsbow on April 06, 2018, 05:12:00 PM
awesome pics with some great bears  :thumbsup: :clapper:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Gib on April 06, 2018, 08:30:38 PM
awesome animals and pictures,,,,sure love seeing them....congratulations everyone and good luck if going again
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Soonerlongbow on April 07, 2018, 08:28:16 AM
Why? Why do y'all do this to me? :scared: :biglaugh:


One of these days I'll finally get a chance to go on a bear hunt. Maybe try here now that we have a season.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: ProAlpine on April 07, 2018, 09:02:01 AM
Great photos and story!

I keep thinking I'm going to see a Tall Tines Stickfinger bow in the pics!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Steve O on April 07, 2018, 10:11:07 AM
Will give it a try. 7' Chocolate and a couple 8'+ from the TallTines hunts.

Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Steve O on April 07, 2018, 10:14:34 AM
Hard to hunt some stands:


Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Steve O on April 07, 2018, 10:18:00 AM
And what I treasure even more than the excellent bear hunting Ryan has is great times with great friends.



Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Soonerlongbow on April 07, 2018, 11:12:03 AM
Quote from: Steve O on April 07, 2018, 10:14:34 AM
Hard to hunt some stands:

I've heard about people shooting them from a stand, but never IN the stand! Where's the proper shot placement on that! :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Steve O on April 07, 2018, 12:15:01 PM
Funny. She had enough problems. That was her only sanctuary from the boars that wanted a piece of her. That may be another reason the hunting is so good there; I can't recall anyone in one of my groups ever shooting a sow.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Soonerlongbow on April 07, 2018, 05:22:58 PM
Seen some videos of boars being driven up trees by sows. Does present an interesting thought for shot placement though. Even if not treed per say, but elevated as if on a rocky ledge above you.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on April 07, 2018, 06:15:58 PM
Good to see those photos again Steve!  It brings back great memories.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on April 07, 2018, 06:21:59 PM
A long story, but I was walking back into a stand one evening.  I stop to pull my bow back a couple of times to stretch out my arms.

All of a sudden, I heard a bunch of loud woofs, with claws digging into wood.  I thought I was getting attacked.  It scared the Crapo out if me!

When things quieted down and I knew I was going to live, I looked around and found I had treed a fair sized bear.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 07, 2018, 11:31:13 PM
Here's a picture of Michael Arnette and Glen Hermon checking out the quality of the bear bait. (snacking on nuts!). That's Ryan with his head under his jacket checking out the camera chip. (this was in 2016).[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 07, 2018, 11:32:52 PM
Here's the target practice area in camp.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: cacciatore on April 08, 2018, 03:31:54 PM
For sure the perfect place for a Traditional Bear bowhunter. One day :pray:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Friend on April 08, 2018, 07:49:07 PM
A most alluring hunt.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on April 09, 2018, 07:09:45 PM
Someone posted a vid of a bear directly under their stand and the hunter was playing with the bear using the bow pull up rope. After a bit, the bear quickly climbed the tree on the opposite side if the hunter, which resulted in an interesting meeting. The vid was posted during the changeover time, so it was lost on the new site.

Does anyone know who the hunter was and can they post the vid again?
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Hermon on April 09, 2018, 07:16:08 PM
http://www.tradgang.com/tgsmf/index.php?topic=106325.100

<iframe width="640" height="385" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-7fgzNwTWdM" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on April 12, 2018, 08:08:48 AM
Thanks for posting the link to the thread, for some reason I couldn't search it up.

I'm shooting everyday and counting the days until I head up there after a big old bruin!!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: stykshooter on April 12, 2018, 09:08:01 AM
Great pics guys
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on April 12, 2018, 11:26:55 AM
Ryan you will see so many bear so close it's amazing! It was such an experience to me... nothing like I ever had before. I read the stories watched the videos but just wait till you are in a stand that kinda seems to close to the bait and the 4 wheeler rides away and it gets quiet... you start looking around. Lol I can feel that anticipatory tension just thinking of the short wait before the show starts  :o :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 13, 2018, 05:04:06 PM
Here's a picture of a bear that walked up to within 3 yards of Michael Arnette and me while setting in a ground blind.  We were glad to see him finally turn and walk over to the bait! He had smelled us and came over to check us out.
There's a story of a l/h archer setting in that blind and having a bear walk up and touch his neck with his nose!  They weren't sure who jumped the farthest, the archer or the bear![attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 13, 2018, 05:06:45 PM
This is a blind I sat in in 2016 that is about 3 feet off the ground. It was fun to watch the bears from this level![attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: wapiti792 on April 13, 2018, 09:25:48 PM
Man I love that place!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: stujay on April 14, 2018, 02:19:33 AM
Some great pics...congrats to each of you. :archer:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Bel007 on April 15, 2018, 09:23:23 PM
Yeah, I am a fan of Stickflingers. [attachment=1][attachment=2][attachment=3]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on April 16, 2018, 06:05:31 PM
Great Pics Big Sexy!

My only question for this year is 54# Silvertip one piece recurve or 52# Centaur one piece longbow? 

I know Big Sexy is a fan of one piece bows so I need to prod him a little.

D.P.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on April 16, 2018, 06:09:59 PM
Let me try this new picture thing.

D.P.[attachment=1,msg2792426]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Bel007 on April 17, 2018, 10:31:01 AM
Quote from: Dave Pagel on April 16, 2018, 06:05:31 PM
Great Pics Big Sexy!

My only question for this year is 54# Silvertip one piece recurve or 52# Centaur one piece longbow? 

I know Big Sexy is a fan of one piece bows so I need to prod him a little.

D.P.


You sure that #54 isn't too much bow for you Pags?  Too bad it's a lefty or I would relieve you from that possible back strain. 
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MIBIGHNTR on April 17, 2018, 12:20:13 PM
Those are some GREAT bears fellas!!

Wondering if I could start a Go Fund Me page for this??   :biglaugh:

Mark
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on April 27, 2018, 07:07:23 PM
5 weeks from today I wi be heading North to hunt at Ztickflingers again! Can't wait!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Hermon on April 27, 2018, 07:41:15 PM
Good luck Mike.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Howitser on April 27, 2018, 08:12:26 PM
Someday I too hope to add a pics to this collection of magnificent bruins.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on April 29, 2018, 06:50:47 PM
Only 31 days until I leave to chase bears with Stickflingers!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 10, 2018, 09:04:36 PM
Three weeks from tomorrow and I head for Birch River to hunt at Stickflingers!
Here's a picture of a nice cinnamon bear shot by a a fellow Tradgang member in 2016[attachment=1][attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 10, 2018, 10:29:36 PM
Nice bear mike! 3 weeks wow it's coming fast!
:archer2:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 11, 2018, 08:09:36 PM
Will you be up there with BowMike and me the first week of June?

Quote from: Sockrsblur on May 10, 2018, 10:29:36 PM
Nice bear mike! 3 weeks wow it's coming fast!
:archer2:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 11, 2018, 10:50:05 PM
Yes Sockrsblur (Jim Class) will be there with us. So will Michael Arnette. It will be a fun group of hunters!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Biathlonman on May 12, 2018, 08:25:50 AM
That should be a great group on a great week.  Ryan and crew have a great outfit, and are good folks (for hose draggers! haha)
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 12, 2018, 04:51:36 PM
 :campfire: Yes sir I will be at the campfire week three... Thankful for another visit to the porcupine hills!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 14, 2018, 09:49:50 PM
 :campfire: I hope we hear from the hunters at camp now, when they can check in.

Who is going next week?  :bigsmyl: I'm excited for you guys!!!  :clapper:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 14, 2018, 10:31:54 PM
 :bigsmyl:
I don't leave for 2 weeks from Friday, but I am already getting my stuff organized! With the new format, we can get on line and post pictures while we are still in camp.
(I can actually add pictures now!)
I bet they already have at least one bear down by now!
That bear that shared a tree with Jim (Sockrsblur) is probably checking the stand every night to see if you are back to play with him some more! :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: SAM E. STEPHENS on May 15, 2018, 12:18:06 AM
Good luck everyone , I need to get on the list one of these years...

,,Sam,,
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 15, 2018, 07:50:17 AM
Sam I always read about your hunts, especially for aoudad. They are on my bucket list.

I was able to pick up this hunt last minute, due to a cancellation. My wife convinced me that I needed to go because I still hadn't picked out a smoker for my 40th birthday back in Nov, and if I didn't jump on this hunt something would always come up. I'm getting my gear together, ordering some last minute stuff, and shooting my bear target. It will be my first time after bears, first time with a guide outfit, and first time in Canada. Needless to say, I'm very excited to watch all the bears and soak everything in. It will be a long drive from Northern VA.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on May 15, 2018, 11:10:01 AM
Steve Chappell, my brother and I will be there starting on 5/27.  Anyone else from "the Gang"?

D.P.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on May 15, 2018, 11:16:31 AM
good luck everyone!  Sooooo jealous.
Gary
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 16, 2018, 07:00:22 PM
 :campfire:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Bel007 on May 16, 2018, 09:41:36 PM
36 hours from now.... northbound to the land of poutine and big taxes. 
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on May 17, 2018, 10:27:24 AM
Good luck Big Sexy.  Hopefully you will find another bear big enough to put his paws on the front of your treestand.  Of course that is using "treestand" loosely since you can usually just step on the platform.

D.P.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Tom Phillips on May 17, 2018, 04:25:00 PM
Great pictures and some dandy bears !!! I can;'t wait to go in I believe 2020' or 2021' with some Connecticut Trad-Gangers Johnny Baer & Dondo to name a couple !!!! I have been told Ryan has a great thing going for bears up North.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Biathlonman on May 17, 2018, 05:28:54 PM
Save me a big one guys, headed up next spring!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on May 18, 2018, 09:56:19 AM
You all probably know this, but:
No guns
No bullets
Tell the border people if you have a can of bear spray.  I had an interesting discussion with a border crossing agent.  He thought it odd that I was going bear hunting and carrying bear spray.

When I explained that I was after a big boar and did not want to shoot a sow with cubs in self defense, he understood that. I think they want to see " bear repellant" or something similar on the can.  Regular pepper spray would not be a go, at least with this guard.

The first week can be cool. OR COLD to you southern boys.😁.  I got by with long johns and a down sweater under my wool Anorack and camo clothes. But I wish I would have taken my wool bibs. And  don't forget gloves.  It can get cold on some of the quad rides.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Tim Hoeck on May 19, 2018, 12:55:54 PM
We just got back from Ryan's yesterday and had a wonderful time. My step son shot a really nice bear which was my main goal to have him get one.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 19, 2018, 03:11:36 PM
Tim was that Seth...    :campfire:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 19, 2018, 07:32:29 PM
 :goldtooth:
Hi Tim, 

How about a picture? Glad you had a fun trip! Two weeks from today I will be in Swan River for week three! :bigsmyl:

Thanks, BowMike
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Warchild on May 22, 2018, 10:21:06 AM
How do you get on the waiting list for this hunt and what is the cost? Does he do fall hunts? It looks awesome!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 22, 2018, 10:36:51 AM
http://stickflingers.com/ (http://stickflingers.com/)

I believe it's spring hunts only. Contact Ryan through the website and he will give you all the info. Just keep in mind that he's up at camp right now and I don't believe the cell service is all that good most of the time.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 22, 2018, 06:00:39 PM
Actually cell phone service is good in camp and on quite a few of the stands too. Last time I texted my wife from the stand and kept her up with the tally  of bears I had seen.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 22, 2018, 07:59:14 PM
 That's even better!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 24, 2018, 07:35:20 AM
I'm surprised no one has put up any pics of this year yet. Only 8 more days before I head up there!!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MIBIGHNTR on May 24, 2018, 08:32:18 AM
Quote from: JARHEAD1371 on May 24, 2018, 07:35:20 AM
I'm surprised no one has put up any pics of this year yet. Only 8 more days before I head up there!!

Lots of pics other places (Facebook, Instagram, etc....)
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 25, 2018, 07:08:55 PM
looks like week 2 is going well per Instagram  :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: KodaChuck on May 27, 2018, 12:11:58 PM
Just returned....great place. Great guys in camp. I killed a Bear Wednesday since I never hunted bear with a traditional bow and weather was rolling in. You won't find a better trad bow hunt. Emphasis on the 6 great guys in camp - Toelke, Tall Tines, Palmer, Black Widow, Fox and Bear takedown. You will be on the edge of your seat the entire time you are on stand. Ryan runs a great operation and I feel very lucky to have had the experience.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: KodaChuck on May 27, 2018, 12:18:21 PM
And by the way, if you kill a bear early and have a little fishing skill, there are nice Like around. I headed off by myself and caught 15 one evening from shore. Largest was 39" ....the photo is a selfie and was not the biggest bruiser. Next trip....will consider a float tube on the gear list.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: KodaChuck on May 27, 2018, 12:19:12 PM
Pike....not Like...oops.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 27, 2018, 12:34:47 PM
KodaChuck, :clapper:

Nice bear and pike! I leave Friday morning and am excited to be heading back up! Maybe I will throw in a fishing rod this time! It is a great trip.

BowMike
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on May 27, 2018, 01:53:52 PM
 Well done koda!!! Beautiful bear and that pike is amazing! No one fished last time I was there great to know. We're you casting plugs or what?
Bow mike was talking about fishing some. Thanks for posting buddy :)
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Wannabe1 on May 27, 2018, 03:12:14 PM
Some really great pics fella's! Sure would love to make something like that happen in my lifetime. :-) Thanks for sharing them. TW
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Biathlonman on May 27, 2018, 03:22:35 PM
Almost there, 370ish days to go until i get to go back.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: KodaChuck on May 27, 2018, 04:37:44 PM
BowMike....  White spinnerbait. Barbless hooks in Manitoba. As you might know, there is some time in the morning before heading out to the stands in the late afternoon. Last shooting time is after 10pm. Make your shot count. I decided to only shoot 100% broadside in a situation where I had 100% + confidence. Your hunt ends when you draw blood. (One way or another.) Plenty of big ones there!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 29, 2018, 01:43:17 PM
Only a couple more days until I head up there! It's a long dive (about 2200 miles, oneway)  but it will be worth it.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on May 29, 2018, 06:54:31 PM
Looking forward to meeting you Ryan.  You are going to have a blast!
I'm getting up Friday morning at 4:00 a.m. and hitting the road  For me it's only 1250 miles.

Mike Tibbits
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Friend on May 29, 2018, 07:20:04 PM
 Have followed Manitoba Stinkflinger's hunts for years.

A dream hunt indeed.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on May 31, 2018, 02:34:32 PM
I'm headed up there in the morning!! Well, I'm starting my journey in the morning. I'm planning on getting to camp at noon on Sunday.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Biathlonman on May 31, 2018, 03:42:58 PM
You all be careful driving up, and make sure to give Ryan a hard time for me!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: 6feathers on June 01, 2018, 06:44:15 PM
Jarhead....I got home on the 28th of May from third trip to Stickflingers.  I can feel your pain with the long drive.  Round trip for me was 4577 miles from North Carolina.  Safe drive and good hunting.  Enjoy the experience.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Tim Hoeck on June 01, 2018, 08:01:05 PM
Gary how did you guys do ?
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on June 02, 2018, 10:39:15 PM
I was kinda hoping for some good stories and lots of photos since I couldnt go.😣
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 04, 2018, 08:41:29 PM
I'm in a stand now... trying to make a story :)
[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Hawkeye on June 04, 2018, 11:06:16 PM
Quote from: Sockrsblur on June 04, 2018, 08:41:29 PM
I'm in a stand now... trying to make a story :)

To top last year's saga, Second Class, you are going to have to allow one to devour you!!!  :saywhat:'s
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on June 05, 2018, 01:45:39 PM
I was on last week's hunt and the bigger boars were not very cooperative.  I have taken 3 bears with Ryan and decided to hold out for one of the bigger boys.  It just didn't happen.  I saw plenty of bears, just not one of the big guys.

I had many close encounters including a night in a ground blind where I had a couple encounters with smaller bears at 10 feet or less.  A gent from Missouri that killed the first night was filming it all and I can't wait to get the footage.

It is a great place.  I can't wait to go back in 2020.

D.P.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 07, 2018, 12:30:56 PM
Someone in our camp has a great story to tell!!!    :campfire:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Hermon on June 07, 2018, 01:02:46 PM
Come on Michael, share the story. :coffee:
[attachment=1,msg2800853]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on June 08, 2018, 10:38:36 AM
where is he and why isn't he sharing???🤔
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 08, 2018, 12:22:40 PM
He is still in bear camp in Manitoba Canada. Packing the truck now.  :campfire:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Michael Arnette on June 09, 2018, 12:34:02 AM
So much fun! Got to get a real education in bears and after a rough start was blessed be in the right place at the right time!

The baby bears were definitely the highlight of the trip! Great to share it with good people! Trying to figure out the photo thing here and I'll post with a story Once I can figure out pictures resizing and get a better idea how to use this updated page from a mobile device. I'm used to all the apps lol
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on June 09, 2018, 02:54:35 PM
teaser😊
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on June 10, 2018, 11:15:11 AM
    Unfortunately my time at stickflingers was sort lived. After leaving my house in northern VA early Friday morning, I pulled into camp right at noon on Sunday. It was great meeting everyone, the guides, and hearing bear stories. Needless to say, I was really looking forward to getting into the woods. After settling in, shooting some arrows, and forgetting to eat lunch, we headed out.
   I was to hunt the stand by Swan Lake (I believe that's the name of the stand) and after dropping Mike off at his stand, another 10 min truck ride, and about 15 min quad ride,  we pulled up to the bait and were greeted by 2 cubs on the bait with the sow not far away. I climbed into the ladder stand, set up my camera, and prepared for an exciting hunt.
    I sat for about 2 hrs (in guessing, since I forgot my phone at camp), weathered a couple short showers, and quietly climbed down to pee about 150 yds away. After returning, the first bear came in as I was sitting back down. It was a small rubbed black colored bear. It was very entertaining to watch as it played with the bait barrel, especially since it couldn't knock it over. A few min later, a beautiful cinnamon boar came in and helped the smaller bear by knocking over the barrel. The cinnamon was bigger, I'm guessing a year or two older, but definitely not a shooter. I watched those bears knock the barrel around, eat the trail mix, and chase the squirrels for most of the evening. The cinnamon bear came over to cheek me out a couple of times, which made for some fun video.
    Just before dark, the small bear was at the bait alone and jumped up looking behind me (downwind). I slowly turned my head to see a very big bear about 20 yds behind me on the trail that came right next to my stand. The big bear was smelling the air and knew I was there. He backed up, and walked down the quad trail and out of sight. I thought he walked off for good, but I saw him pacing around down the quad tail, mostly out of sight. A few min later, he walked back up the quad trail, behind me, and continued passed where I first saw him. He entered the woods about 40 yds passed me, and appeared to just walk off. About 2 min later he walked straight in to the bait from directly in front of me. He was very cautious, and he walked off about 10 yds then came bank to the bait 3 different times. Each time I thought I had missed my chance at the big boar. His third return he wss standing broadside at about 15 yds and I took my shot. It was getting dark, but I could still see to shoot and where my arrow hit him. The shot looked great about 4-6" behind his front leg and about halfway up his side. He snapped at the arrow and ran back the way he came in. I heard loud crashes for about 2 seconds, then dead silence. I could see my arrow on the ground where he was and I had no doubt he was down.
   About 15 min later, I heard the quad coming to pitch me up for the ride back to camp. As discussed prior, the SOP is to retrieve bears I  the morning and it was to get down to 37 that night. The guide asked how big he was, after I explained the shot, and I thanked him for the idea of comparing the bear to the size of the barrel, if the bear can fit then is not a big one. If I tried to stuff my bear in it, it's back legs wouldn't fit inside. The guide said that I shot "Lucky" and he's a 7 footer at that bait. Two other hunters had Lucky at 9 and 12 yds, by couldn't get a shot off. They both said Lucky acted very cautious.
    The next morning, the two guides, another hunter in camp, and I returned to track my bear. My arrow was broken, but soaked in blood and the trail was amazing. After about 50 yds that all changed. We spent the next 5 hrs on our hands and knees and walking different trails in a swampy area looking for blood or bear. I can't begin to explain the tail, but I found blood 4 different  times after we lost the trail, because Lucky backtracked. We find several beds with 3 blood pools, entrance, exit, and mouth. There were 3 beds within 40 yds at the end of the trail. Unfortunately, we were unable to recover my bear. It was the craziest blood trail I've ever seen or heard of.
    I have no doubt in my mind that the guides did everything they could to find my bear. I believe my shot was slightly higher than what I saw and the bear had exhaled when the arrow hit. This caused my arrow to pass through just above the lungs and not cause the immediate death of the bear. I was shooting a VPA 3 blade 1.25" 200 gr broadhead that was deadly sharp.
    Having to deal with a lost bear, I headed home that evening. I deal with things best by myself, and a long drive helps. It will always be a sore topic, but it happens sometimes.
    I am making plans for another trip to stickflingers in the near future. That place is simply amazing! My experience was short, but I learned a great deal and I will be better prepared for next time.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Soonerlongbow on June 10, 2018, 06:18:54 PM
Man! I'm sorry to hear about that! That's got to be gut wrenching, I've been there with two bow shot deer and it's never easy.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: dresnor on June 10, 2018, 09:02:16 PM
Any idea on where that lamp came from?

I love the look of it.

Jeremy

Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 11, 2018, 12:05:30 AM
Here's a picture of Michael Arnette's big boar. Great bear Michael!![attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 11, 2018, 12:09:04 AM
Here's another. I'll let Michael tell the story.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 11, 2018, 12:11:06 AM
Let me try to enlarge the first picture.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Biathlonman on June 11, 2018, 06:08:45 AM
I swear I saw Mike's bear at elk rub last year...
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sawpilot 75 on June 11, 2018, 06:13:57 AM
Man that is a monster boar! Good for him. Congratulations Michael.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Dave Pagel on June 11, 2018, 06:41:44 AM
I feel for you Jarhead.  I sat on that bear 2 nights and never saw him.  You must have been in the ladderstand and not the ground blind.  I saw the small brown boar both nights.

D.P.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Soonerlongbow on June 11, 2018, 08:40:07 AM
Dang man!!! Are we certain that's not a griz in disguise!?!?!?    :o
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Basinboy on June 11, 2018, 09:34:43 AM
Great pics and some fine bears!  :shaka:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: TheAbominableBowman on June 11, 2018, 09:50:08 AM
Great meeting you boys (Mike T., Jim C. Mike A., Ryan A., and Brandon) in camp and Ryan was right, that blood trial was the craziest I've ever experienced.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: TheAbominableBowman on June 11, 2018, 09:51:13 AM
My boar.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on June 11, 2018, 11:05:39 AM
well done, boys!
Congratulations. i cant wait to hear the rest of the stories.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Michael Arnette on June 11, 2018, 03:51:17 PM
Well thanks Mike for posting pictures!
Now for the story:

Brandon and I arrived in camp without much time to spare after some difficulties getting in the road. Time to stretch our legs and take a few practice shots. On our way the the first sit it started to rain and rained off and on all through the hunt. Slow going but all saw a bear or two though and headed back to camp to find that Ryan had shot his bear.

Day two I sat PRB and had nonstop action! Lots of sows cubs and small/medium boars offered shots which I passed. I had a great encounter with two bear cubs who sniffed me out while I took a nap. I think I scared them more then they scared me when I woke up!

Day 3 was rainy and cloudy the whole hunt and I say fishing lake when giant sow and two tiny cubs made an appearance at last light.

Day 4 was the day, I saw an unprecedented number of bears for that area and the 11th bear on the who made an appearance was the giant. He came walking down the loggoing road And I knew he was a good sized bear when he got within 50 yards. I prepared for the shot as he tried it in at a fairly brisk pace. My wind had switched and was blowing directly towards the bait...I was actually contemplating moving stands when he showed up. As he continued on his route I knew he would come into my scent trail So I took the first shot I could get ever so slightly Corrine towards me and tucked in tight behind the shoulder. It was after I took the shot that I realized how big he was...The arrow zipped through his body and It felt like everything exploded in slow motion. Just the sheer size of the bear was amazing and made everything appear almost unreal.

He ran into the brush and then emerged about 40 yards down and collapse Just out of sight about 50 yards away. I heard several agonizing death moans...not a fun sound to hear and then silence. From my shot to the silence was probably only 15 to 20 seconds.

I got down from my stand almost immediately and as I walked up on my bear he just kept growing! What a bear! My guide Manuel and I pulled an all nighter getting the bear out and taking pictures.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Etter on June 11, 2018, 06:25:17 PM
That bear is an absolute giant!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on June 11, 2018, 06:46:49 PM
Thanks for the story Michael. Very happy for you.  It looks like a great trophy.  When you see a big one after watching twenty or so average bear, there is no doubt.  I still remember my first glimpse of the bear I shot last year.  I hope I never lose that memory.

Ryan's is such a great place.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Michael Arnette on June 11, 2018, 09:03:31 PM
Quote from: Biathlonman on June 11, 2018, 06:08:45 AM
I swear I saw Mike's bear at elk rub last year...

He wasn't far from elk rub actually and had some pictures at whitefish. I shot him at fishing lake although he hadn't been seen there
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Wannabe1 on June 11, 2018, 09:09:29 PM
 :clapper: :clapper: That's a biggie! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: beemann on June 11, 2018, 09:24:51 PM
Thanks for sharing.  Nice work   I love bear hunting.   :clapper:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Steve O on June 11, 2018, 10:15:56 PM
Bruiser of a bear Michael. I'm glad you got him  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Fletcher on June 11, 2018, 11:34:07 PM
Congrats Michael, on a great bear.  I need to reconsider the slightly quartering to shot.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Fletcher on June 11, 2018, 11:39:39 PM
Jarhead, could that have been the Lost Lake bait?  Ladder stand toward the 4 wheeler trail and a ground blind opposite to the west.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on June 12, 2018, 08:49:17 AM
Yes, Lost Lake stand. The bear started to come in on the trail from the east, right behind the stand, but circled around and walked in on the trail right next to the ground blind. He actually crashed through the downed tree on his way out.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: lt-m-grow on June 12, 2018, 11:22:08 AM
Congratulations there Michael.    Looks like one heck of bear.   What did he square?  Hard to tell because we loose so much perspective with a cellphone pic.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Michael Arnette on June 12, 2018, 02:39:49 PM
Quote from: lt-m-grow on June 12, 2018, 11:22:08 AM
Congratulations there Michael.    Looks like one heck of bear.   What did he square?  Hard to tell because we loose so much perspective with a cellphone pic.

We did a dorsal cut on the skinning so it wouldn't let us get an accurate measurement. If I had to take a modest guess I would say 7' 6" ?

The skull is going to be getting into Boone and Crockett territory. I took a green score that got me pretty excited but we shall see.

Either way I'm pretty happy with lots of bear meat!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: lt-m-grow on June 12, 2018, 03:15:15 PM
That is cool.  Congrats again.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: cacciatore on June 12, 2018, 03:43:06 PM
Congrats Michael!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: cacciatore on June 12, 2018, 03:44:46 PM
Congrats Michael
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Ray Lyon on June 12, 2018, 03:48:00 PM
 :clapper: :clapper:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Flingblade on June 13, 2018, 01:47:55 PM
Great bear Michael!  Congrats!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 15, 2018, 10:39:28 AM
I had a great time at bear camp this spring. I didn't bring a bear home in a cooler but camp was rich with great company and bear experiences :) shooting bows, comparing gear, while making new friends and laughing at stories makes a week in Birch River fly by. Our new to me guides were a pleasure to hunt with and fun to get to know while learning from, thank you David and Manny!

I saw close to 40 black bear while on stand. The interactions and close proximity of the bear is a joy to share. I was able to ride along on Eric's backcountry recovery as well as Brandon's and Michaels bear in camp. With three bear down camp life was a great experience I fully enjoyed.

Guys it was great sharing camp with all of you. Please drop me a note at every excuse:) I'll put a few photos up simply because they are fun.  :campfire:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 15, 2018, 10:51:35 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/zD7MFtd.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/LsV6k6v.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7OXNwD2.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/QfnNOQY.jpg)
I love spring bear camp :) the guys, the sights and sounds, the experiance.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 15, 2018, 12:21:41 PM
I enjoyed my time in camp too! I already knew Jim and Michael and met Eric, Ryan and Brandon in camp. It was fun hanging out in camp and comparing notes on bears we had seen.
Here's a picture of a young sow who came by to visit.[attachment=1]
I'm already  on the list to return for another fun trip!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 15, 2018, 01:28:51 PM
I love that photo Mike... actually the video is great! Another example of a friendly bear, they really do have different personalities! She was a beautiful color too. I wish you lived closer buddy ide meet you out for a piece of pie and coffee  :campfire:
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: JARHEAD1371 on June 16, 2018, 07:29:38 AM
I have spent a decent amount of time in many different places around the world and my experience at stickflingers was absolutely amazing. That was the first time I've ever hunted bears, but the memories I made will be treasured for the rest of my life. The 250 square miles they have is packed with bears, big bears. It is a place that everyone who wants to hunt bears needs to go at least once in their lives.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: Sockrsblur on June 16, 2018, 12:19:59 PM
Ryan I wanted to thank you for the food you shared with us sir  :bigsmyl: The biscuits and gravy was amazing. There wasn't a biscuit left I promise you. The steaks were very generous too, really great.
Thank you very much!
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 17, 2018, 02:59:22 PM
Ryan,
My thanks for the biscuits and gravy and the rib eye steaks as well!
[attachment=1]
Here's a picture of the young sow  pictured above doing her version of a table dance.
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 17, 2018, 03:01:18 PM
 here's a sow and two cubs taking a nap in a tree.[attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: BowMIke on June 17, 2018, 03:02:31 PM
Here's a busy mom with three cubs![attachment=1]
Title: Re: Stickflingers bear hunts pics
Post by: MnFn on June 17, 2018, 08:40:52 PM
Great photos Mike.  It brings back memories of an extra hour or so I waited in a stand because of an irate sow with two cubs.