https://scontent-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11018825_1628248480743706_4766677487964622389_n.jpg?oh=22aa76acdf4793e7e89d2444b540f699&oe=55D1A233The birds were roosted on the point of a small rocky outcropping suspended 300 ft above the valley floor were Moccasin creek slowly meander's its way toward larger creeks, rivers, and ultimately the sea. After leaving the roost the birds made a big loop to the north before circling back to my location. I haven't shot an immature gobbler in many years but this would be an exception. I was carrying a double barrel, smooth bore, black powder shotgun and had already decided not to be picky if presented with a shot on a legal turkey inside of 20 paces, the maximum effective range of my weapon. So when this turkey came into view strutting and gobbling like the boss of the woods I didn't hesitate to "make meat" as they say. The bird was what I call a jake and a half, 16lbs, 6 inch beard and 1/2 inch spurs. Likely the result of a second or even third attempt by a hen at nesting in the summer of 2013.
With the weight of several highly palatable meals for my family heaved over my shoulder, I started the long walk back to the road were my truck was parked. After descending the towering ridge, were you almost need to repel at times, I paused at the creek to get a drink of water, rest and bask in the first warming rays of a spring time sun rise. I briefly pondered about what it might have been like for an 18th century longhunter on a morning much the same as this one. While miles and years apart in the reality of life styles, hardships, and the necessity to hunt, I like to think that we might have had at least a little in common. If nothing else then surly for the love of the hunt and for this special place along the banks of Moccasin Creek. And for a brief fleeting moment I think I may have smelled his camp fire smoke and felt the warmth of a kindred spirit as I sat enjoying the wildflowers and bird songs.
For those interested I was shooting a 12 gauge smooth bore cap lock.
70 grains 2F Goex black powder under 1 5/8th ounces of #6 lead shot.
The shot was 17 paces. I used a wing bone call. One of my Sassafras pot calls with Cherry striker and was also packing my Cedar and Walnut long box that my lovely wife Jenny did art work on for me
Sorry you will have to click on the link to view the image I still have not figured out how to attach the photos to the post, LOL.
