I think of many years ago, walking through my favorite covert in Sullivan County. A twisted mess of barberries and Georgia pines. My faithful German Shorthair, Ticket, slowly ploding through the muck of the moist, moss covered earth. Then in one swirling movement, he was on point at my feet.An explosion of wings and wistling, soared past my nose, nearly knocking off my hat. Out of instinct I snapped up my E.R. Amiantino, over and under and fired. What had flushed and fallen will never be forgoten. My first American Woodcock.
There have been many since then, but that day will be etched in my mind, until the day the Lord calls me home. I'm writing this because, slowly the date of October 17 is coming. The first day for hunting the elusive American Woodcock.
I scouted one of "secret spots" on state land. I know it sounds odd, but this is a section of public land that sees little presure for woodcock, thus its perfect for me. It lays only 10 mins away from my home, here in Berks County. I recently did a training session with one of my female German Shorthairs there, in hopes that a resident woodcock was around or maybe a holdover pheasant. No Dice! But a good day of training to say the least. It took about 10 mins for Briar to shake the winter cobwebs from her little doggie brain, but after that she was a pleasure to work, when I could see her. See the milkweed, multifloral rose and scrub oak were very thick and made it very difficult to admire her work. I did enjoy seeing her addapt to the surroundings, as she bounded and looked for the next birdy looking hideaway. A few more weeks here in PA and we'll be out on the prowl looking for the American Woodcock and what ever tricks he has up his sleeves. I just hope the North Wind doesn't blow too hard, too fast. Until next time, Hunt safe and hunt hard.
Russ
Steady Point Upland Guide Service
