FINS, FUR & FEATHERS Not many chances left for a big hunt

Published 6:00 am Wednesday, December 12, 2001

It has always been said that if you are tired of the weather around here, just wait a minute and it will change. These changes in our weather patterns are what make the avid outdoors person grab either rod or gun. Luckily there are still a few opportunities still out there for those willing to brave the weather.

For the hunter things are sadly coming to a close as the end of 2001 nears. Most of the big game seasons are closed. Sure you have a few days left in the late archery season for white-tails over on the far east part of the state, but for most hunters, the year has ended.

For those who would like to extend their firearm season, you should look into becoming an Advanced Hunter Education Graduate (AHE). This program is an intense extension of the basic Hunter Education program in this state.

After completing the program, graduates have additional opportunities open to them. Any hunter can complete the course, and it is a good way to extend your season. Contact the state’s Hunter Education Department via their website or call (360) 902-8111.

For this year graduates have one last shot at an anterless whitetail from the Dec. 9 to 15 Game Management Units 130-142. For the rest of us it’s time to put the rifle in the cabinet and grab the scattergun for the last remaining chances.

Snow pushes grouse lower

For the hunter who targets upland birds, there are still some chances to be had over on the east side, but on this side of the mountains you are limited to grouse. Most of the recent snow fall has pushed the birds to lower elevations.

If warm weather and rain quickly follow, the birds will follow the snow line until available forage is either covered again or becomes depleted.

The birds also need an abundant supply of water. If temperatures thaw area springs the birds will be found nearby, otherwise look for areas where the birds can feed and water near cover. During the early morning hours and near dusk, the birds like to fill their craw with grit. Old logging roads are a good place to look.

Before you venture up into the higher elevations for blue or spruce grouse, be sure to check the weather and leave a hunt plan for family or friends. Winter storms can come up quickly so be prepared and let someone know where to find you if the need arrives.

Snow geese

look plentiful

The other choice is to target waterfowl. It looks as though there are plenty of snow geese this year, the problem lies with finding available public land to find them.

The reserve off Fir Island Road has plenty of birds for the watcher, but the hunter is not allowed. For the hunter who does not have access to private land, try heading out to Smith Farm between Stanwood and Camano. On the west side of the farm lies numerous dikes near the tidal flats. When the birds lift off the water they hug the shoreline on their daily feeding trip. If the weather permits, the birds fly low enough that the hunter without a boat can get to them.

Another area is at the end of the main dike on the flats at the Headquarters Unit. While a dog is not necessary, it will help with retrieves out into the big water. Be sure you check your tide tables, speaking from experience, you can get stranded out there and have a long cold wait. If you are lucky enough to have access to a boat, then try and intercept the birds as they descend the nearby fields, just make sure to respect private property.

The weather has also been a plus for the field hunter. If you are lucky to have a weekday off, try the farmed island segment of the Skagit Wildlife Area. The ample water in the fields has made for better hunting for the boatless/dogless hunter. Decent numbers of mallards and pintails. Soon canvasbacks will be legal. Make sure to check the department’s webpage for up to date information.

Skagit gives up steelhead

Lastly winter steelhead fishing continues on the Skagit, with fair numbers from the popular bars. If rains melt the snowfall, the rivers can become more difficult to fish. For all you last minute shoppers, 2002-03 hunting and fishing licenses are now available at most dealers. You do not need a new one until April, but this is a great gift for your favorite hunter or angler.