$100,000 is a lot of money. Money that can make a difference. Life changing money. But it’s not what you might call retirement money. At least that’s what Dustin Ellermann, winner of last season’s Top Shot on History Channel soon discovered after his 2011 win.

Despite the general hoopla that goes along with taking first place on a top rated show, there is still the reality of finding a job and earning a living. As the head muckety muck of Camp His Way, Dustin already has a job. One that he performs with his family and truly loves. But the Top Shot victory means there could be more.

“Taran Butler (experienced 3-gunner and expert on Top Shot) is trying to get me into 3-gun,” said Ellermann. “He said we’ll get you hooked up and you’ll end up in the top 10 sure enough because he believes in me.”

Most people who qualify for the show would jump at the chance to shoot for a living. But for Dustin, the work he does at Camp His Way is more of a calling then a job. A calling that requires something that most of us have precious little of: time.

“I’m not sure if I have that time to commit. But it sounds like fun so I might be going that way.”

Making it happen with LaRue and Savage

While filming Top Shot, competitors were presented with a number of different guns. Pistols, rifles and shotguns from almost a dozen different manufacturers. Although all were great fun, there were a few who stood out.

“I have a partnership with LaRue Tactical because they make some awesome guns,” Ellermann explained. “The OBRs is one of my favorites from the show.”

Before we could go into greater detail, another group of adoring fans came by with smiles, well wishes and additional adulations. It was a common theme throughout the SHOT Show interview. A few pictures and handshakes later, we’d made it to the NRA booth and finished things up.

“I’ve also done some local range days with Savage,” said Ellermann. “Met a lot of fans and got the Savage name out there. I get to fly out to the factory next week and build my own, so that’ll be fun.”

Fun is what Dustin seems to have in great quantity. With a supportive group of family and friends, his future appears both bright and unlimited. There’s talk of a Top Shot All-Star show, more personal appearances and a rise in Camp His Way applications that will keep the counselors busy for decades. The only problem, as if often the case in these situations, is the product of his own success.

“I also have a .338 coming from Savage.”

That doesn’t sound all that bad. What’s the problem?

“Problem is getting the ammunition,” Ellermann grinned “It costs a lot to feed those beasts.”

Dominion Riverrock announced today a partnership with Subaru of America, Inc. through which Subaru will serve as the presenting sponsor of the 2012 Dominion Riverrock festival in Richmond, VA. The fourth annual river life festival is set to take place on May 18-20 and will be packed with outdoor sports, vendors, and music.

“As one of the nation’s premier outdoor events, Dominion Riverrock Presented by Subaru, is an ideal opportunity for Subaru to showcase our brand and vehicles in front of a tremendous crowd of avid, outdoor enthusiasts. We’re excited to return this year in a larger capacity as the presenting sponsor,” said Todd Lawrence, Promotions and Sponsorship Manager for Subaru of America, Inc.

“Subaru is a leader in promoting the urban ‘park and play’ lifestyle that Dominion Riverrock is all about so we’re thrilled to partner with them,” said Jeff Fitch, the Director of Sponsorship for the festival.

Legendary climbing apparel brand Gramicci will sponsor the 19th Annual Hueco Tanks Rock Rodeo Fundraiser March 2-4, 2012. The event is expected to draw some 500 – 700 people, ranging from athletes and climbing enthusiasts to teachers and non-profit members. All will gather to support environmental stewardship by raising money for the Hueco Tanks State Park’s Lone Star Legacy Trust Fund. The goal for the weekend is to raise a minimum of $5,000.

The 19th Annual Hueco Rock Rodeo, presented by Adidas Outdoor and The Hueco Valley Foundation, will take place at Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site in El Paso County, Texas. There will be clinics, workshops, videos, and slideshows. The Adult Bouldering Competition is on March 3rd, and Pro Athlete clinics are being offered on March 4 from 11am to 3pm.   Hueco Tanks is one of the most revered climbing areas in the US.  All proceeds directly benefit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation’s Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund. See www.HuecoRockRodeo.com to learn more.

Gramicci’s ambassador climber Nick Duttle will take part in the event, both competing and speaking. Nick is renowned in Heuco Tanks for the many original hard “lines” he set. Nick will be competing in the Adult Bouldering competition on March 3rd Nick’s clinic will be held on Sunday, March 4th, 2012 (11am-3pm). Participants in Nick’s clinic will learn about Hueco Tanks’ rich climbing history, how to build strength, recover properly and the importance of skin maintenance. Nick will be handing out samples of Gramicci’s latest performance climbing apparel made with NPT- Natural Performance Technology  at his clinic.  Gramicci’s NPT hemp and organic cotton based fabric naturally produces higher levels of moisture management, breathability and body temperature regulation than both synthetics and the so-called performance cottons that are treated with chemicals This Gramicci technology is ideally suited for hot, dry climates like Hueco, and the ethos of its customers resonates with the environmental goals of the Hueco fundraiser.

Hueco Tanks is an area of low mountains in El Paso County, Texas. It is located in a high-altitude desert basin between the Franklin Mountains and the Hueco Mountains. Hueco is a Spanish word meaning hollows and refers to the many water-holding depressions in the boulders and rock faces throughout the region. Due to the unique concentration of historic artifacts, plants and wildlife, the site is under protection of Texas law. This special legal status helps mitigate the impact of the many visitors to the park.   The Hueco Tanks are widely regarded as one of the best areas in the world for bouldering (rock climbing) because of its unique rock type as well as the concentration and quality of the climbing. From October through March, it is common for climbers from across Europe, Asia, and Australia to visit the park. Since implementation of the Public Use Plan, volunteer or commercial guides are required to access more than two-thirds of the park’s area. Only the North Mountain is accessible without guides, and even there only for about 70 people at any time. Nearby the Hueco Rock Ranch offers camping and a place for climbers to find guides, to relax and to socialize. The Hueco Rock Rodeo event is designed to keep Hueco clean and accessible for generations to come with invested stewardship from the climbing community.

Nuisance alligator control hunters have until March 15 to apply for a permit under new rules adopted by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission.

The new protocol authorizes a permitted control hunter to contract directly with landowner or landowner’s agent (including a political subdivision, governmental entity, or property owner’s association) for a fee or other compensation for the removal of nuisance alligators

Persons interested in the nuisance alligator control program should contact Amos Cooper at 409-736-3625 (office) or 409-293-2836 (cell). Prospective permittees can also request the information by email at amos.cooper@tpwd.state.tx.us.

The new protocol requires that each nuisance control hunter complete a certification process that includes an application to TPWD, a department administered course and a test on nuisance control. Reporting requirements will ensure that only bona fide nuisance alligators are taken by permitted control hunters. An annual permit fee is also required.

Prior to the new rules, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department had contracted with qualified individuals for the removal of nuisance alligators.  Each hunter bid for the privilege to conduct nuisance control activities in a specific territory, agreeing to pay a per foot price to the department for every alligator removed.  In return, the control hunter was allowed to keep the alligator and could sell the skin and meat.  All removals were authorized on a case by case basis by the department.

With the recent addition of Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, as title sponsor of the Texas Team Trail, excitement is growing over the newest bass tournament trail in a state well known for exceptional fishing.

Cabela’s joins an ever-widening list of supporters with a multiyear commitment as title sponsor.  With large purses and incredible sponsor bonuses, the new Texas Team Trail presented by Cabela’s touts the highest team payouts in Texas. The first event is set to begin on Sam Rayburn Lake in March 2012.

“Cabela’s is a great addition to our list of sponsors,” said Mike Hastings, Tournament Director. “They are a well-respected leader in the fishing industry with a long and storied history of furthering the growth of our sport. We’re thrilled to have them as title sponsor of the Texas Team Trail.”

Cabela’s, headquartered in Sidney, Neb., is a leading outdoor retailer recognized internationally for its affordable, high-quality outdoor equipment. Cabela’s produces nearly 100 different catalogs per year, shipped to all 50 states and 125 countries.  The company also produces specialty books focusing on archery, fly-fishing and boating, among other outdoor pursuits, as well as massive Spring and Fall Master catalogs.

With a steadfast emphasis on quality products and strong customer service, the popularity of Cabela’s website and retail stores continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Besides the thriving e-commerce side of www.cabelas.com, which went live in 1998, the website features a continuously updated content site, community pages and company information. Cabela’s operates 34 retail stores across the United States and Canada, bringing Cabela’s unique shopping experience to millions of customers. Cabela’s also plans to open six new stores in 2012.

Cabela’s continues to embrace its longstanding philosophy that the customer is No. 1 – a philosophy instilled by company founders Jim and Dick Cabela.

“We’re excited to be a part of such a great organization bringing significant rewards to anglers while drawing even more attention to so many valuable fisheries in the state,” said Scott Williams, Cabela’s Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and E-Commerce Officer. “The Texas Team Trail is set to become one of the biggest and most important team trails in Texas and we look forward to many years with the organization.”

The tournament circuit, designed exclusively for team competition, will begin March 10, 2012, and will include four qualifying events, plus a year-end championship. The Texas Team Trail website is accepting registrations. The website offers details about the circuit, including official rules, tournament structure, payout and incentives.

The circuit also includes unprecedented media coverage, not only within the Lone Star State but across the country as well. Airing on multiple major networks, the Texas Team Trail will be seen on The Texas Channel, World Fishing Network, Pursuit Channel and the new NBC Sports Network.

For additional information, anglers are encouraged to call 210-788-4143 or check out the new website at www.texasteamtrail.com. Site visitors can register for events, review the television schedule, get official Texas Team Trail gear, view results and learn more about what’s in store for 2012.

2012 Scheduled Events

• March 10 – Sam Rayburn Lake
• April 7 – Ray Roberts Lake
• May 5 – Lake Livingston
• June 9 – Lake Lewisville

Championship – October 20-21 – Lake Amistad

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) may temporarily close the Dundee Fish Hatchery near Wichita Falls during the upcoming production season due to a declining water supply.

“Although we have not officially made the decision to suspend operations at Dundee for 2012, it looks like we will not have water to operate this spring, and we do not plan to put any ponds into production unless conditions change within the next couple of weeks,” said Todd Engeling, hatchery program director for TPWD.  “Although we have had restrictions placed on our water use in the past due to drought conditions, as far as I know this is the first time that it has resulted in a temporary suspension in operations at any of our facilities.”

Located in Archer County below Lake Diversion, the Dundee Fish Hatchery has 97 ponds and 84 total acres of water, representing 34 percent of the state’s available freshwater fish production capacity. It is the state’s primary producer of striped bass and hybrid striped bass, turning out 3 million to 4 million fingerlings annually.

Originally constructed in 1927 and renovated in 1994, Dundee receives its water supply under contract with the Wichita County Water Improvement District No. 2, which provides water primarily for irrigation and municipal use. The hatchery gets its water from Lake Diversion, which is a constant level reservoir fed by Lake Kemp.

“Severe drought in that part of the state has left water levels in Lake Kemp very low, resulting in restricted water use,” Engeling said.  “Under the water district’s drought plan, the hatchery is not allowed to divert water when water elevations in Lake Kemp reach 1125 feet above mean sea level. The water elevation in Kemp is currently 1126 and is expected to drop to 1125 early this spring when irrigation activity increases.”

TPWD operates four other freshwater fish hatcheries. They are the A.E. Wood Fish Hatchery in San Marcos; the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens; the Possum Kingdom Fish Hatchery near Graford; and the John D. Parker East Texas Fish Hatchery near Jasper. Water supplies at those hatcheries are not in immediate danger but could become impacted if the drought continues.

“That is not to say that operations at the other facilities will not be impacted,” Engeling said. “Continued production of striped bass and hybrid striped bass fingerlings is a high priority, because they support valuable and popular sport fisheries throughout the state. We may need to adjust normal production plans and shift efforts at other facilities away from largemouth bass to produce these fingerlings. Our goal is to balance the priorities and needs for both species in supporting fisheries management efforts with available hatchery space.” TPWD typically produces 8 million to 9 million largemouth bass and 4 million to 5 million striped bass and hybrid striped bass fingerlings each year.

“Largemouth bass populations should be fine with a short-term reduction in stocking numbers,” said Dave Terre, the fisheries management and research program director for TPWD. “Unlike largemouth bass, fisheries for striped and hybrid striped bass are almost totally supported through our stocking programs.”

I knew this was going to be a long and exciting day. We reached the hunting cabin the night before, set up all our gear and played with my new toys from Christmas. It would be my first wild boar hunt with a brand new bow and some arrows. With my deer and bear hunting experience, I figured it was going to be a breeze.

As the sun peered from the top of a distant mountain, we began our adventure with snow on the ground, a light 3-5 mph west wind, and a brisk 35 degrees. It was a clear Saturday morning, and the woods were completely silent. While walking, the guide told my father and me about the tendencies and habitats of wild hogs. All I heard was “charge and attack.” I figured he gave this little pep talk to everyone because “no way could a little hog attack me.” Being a stubborn Navy SAR Diver, I asked the guide to point us in the direction and let us do a stalk hunt. The look on his face was just awful. As my father and I charged up the hill, I faintly heard our guide’s wish of “good luck” fade into the distance.

I nocked an arrow and we walked for hours, looking for trails and signs of hogs. How hard could it be to find tracks? These things destroy hundreds of acres of land and even eat fresh meat such as deer and other animals. At 8:15 a.m., I notice movement in the valley and, from the corner of my eye, I saw more movement. It was a whitetail deer cruising by. We stopped on what was clearly a game trail where heavy tracks made a blazing path in the thick woods of Upper New York State. The area we were hunting was primarily old evergreens, where many older logs had fallen. I remembered the guide saying that hogs love to lay under them for protection.

It felt like days of walking up and down the mountain with little sign of fresh tracks. But suddenly, we saw hogs running from the foot of the valley to the other side of the mountain. There were at least 30 little piglets and six boars of 150-300 pounds. We decided to split up and conduct a mini drive. My dad would go around the top of the mountain they just passed over, and I would go the opposite way to post. As my old man disappeared into the mountain, I could hear his footsteps crackling the ice and branches. I was trying to tip toe as I approached a fallen tree and was taken by surprise by three hogs bedded down. I couldn’t get a good visual to determine if they were mature hogs, so I continued on, paying more attention to fallen trees and brush piles. I could hear my dad in the distance, so I whistled my location.

I came upon another long, old log with a perfect cover of brush and limbs over it and thought there had to be a hog or two under it. Boy was I right; there were six to eight. I picked one of the larger ones and knew I wouldn’t get a better shot. The hog was trotting. I drew back and let an arrow fly, but I had clearly misjudged the distance. The arrow flew right over the hog’s head and, before I knew it, I was face to face with the 200 pound hog. As he trotted towards me, I could see my dad’s face in the distance and heard him yell, “shoot it, shoot it.”

I panicked for two seconds, knowing I couldn’t outrun this thing. There were too many fallen trees and branches, deep snow and mud banks to pull a Carl Lewis. My heart was racing. The hog must have heard my dad because it suddenly stopped at 30 yards. With my heart pounding, I tried to get a second arrow out of the quiver. I could barely hit a target at 20 yards with my new bow, and I had to hit a boar at 30 yards with my heart thumping and my hands sweaty. I pulled myself together, aimed and released an arrow. The hog let out this noise the entire mountain heard—a sound of desperate anger and defeat.

I killed my first hog and was both relieved and prouder than ever. With big smiles, my father and I exchanged high fives. This was no ordinary hog hunt; this was something special—a bond between father and son and the sacrifice of a hog for the meat and excitement.

Back at the cabin, news and much laughter spread fast about my close encounter with this hog. The ride home gave me time to reflect on the amazing weekend. To those who are thinking of going wild boar hunting, go for it. It’s a thrill you will never forget. Just listen and pay attention to your guide.

Jason Delgado is an avid angler, who also regularly pursues trophy game such as deer and bear.  A member of the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance from Mason Tenders District Council PAC, this was his first wild boar hunt.

Kevin VanDam is an expert at all things fish. If you’re looking to improve your fishing, take a look at how the four-time Bassmaster Classic winner does it.

In the following video, VanDam talks about where the best spot on the river to fish is. He shows you how he adjusts his lures and technique to the conditions and even the time of day. And of course, KVD discusses the type of lures he uses that help him to be successful.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is recommending changes to next year’s hunting and fishing regulations. The department is seeking comment on these proposed changes to the state’s hunting and fishing regulations during a series of public hearings.

Each year, TPWD considers changes in hunting and fishing regulations to achieve resource management objectives and maximize outdoor recreation opportunities consistent with good stewardship.

The public is encouraged to attend public meetings in their area and provide comment on proposed changes. The TPW Commission will make final rulemaking at its March 28-29 public hearing in Austin.

The proposed amendments are published in the Feb. 17, 2012 edition of the Texas Register, available online at http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/index.shtml.

Public comment on proposed changes may be made in writing to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Statewide Hunting and Fishing Proclamation Public Comment, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, Texas 78744. Comments may also be submitted via the department’s website at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/feedback/public_comment/ or through the following resource points of contact:

• Robert Macdonald (Wildlife) at (512) 389-4775; e-mail: robert.macdonald@tpwd.state.tx.us.
• Ken Kurzawski (Inland Fisheries) at (512) 389-4591, e-mail: ken.kurzawski@tpwd.state.tx.us.
• Art Morris (Coastal Fisheries) at (361) 825-3356, e-mail: art.morris@tpwd.state.tx.

Delaware hunters harvested 13,559 deer during the 2011-12 season, a 4.4 percent drop from the previous season’s 14,183, but well within the harvest totals for the past five years, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife announced today. The 2011-12 deer harvest ranks as the seventh all-time highest deer harvest for Delaware.

“We expected the harvest to be lower this season compared to last year. Two years ago, Delaware experienced two major nor’easter storms during the October muzzleloader and November shotgun seasons, significantly impacting hunting success and bringing the 2009-10 season’s overall harvest numbers down,” said Deer and Furbearer Biologist Joe Rogerson, Division of Fish and Wildlife. “As a result, more deer were available to hunters during the 2010-11 season, and harvest numbers rose to the third all-time highest level. This season, the deer population returned to levels similar to those before the 2009-10 season and so did the harvest numbers.”

During the 2011-12 season, hunters harvested more does than bucks, with 52 percent female (7,054) and 48 percent male (6,505). Antlerless deer, comprising as a group females, juvenile bucks without antlers (button bucks), and bucks with antlers both measuring less than three inches, represented 70.9 percent of the total harvest.

“The November shotgun season remains the most productive and popular season with hunters. This year, 6,144 deer were harvested during the November shotgun season,” said Rogerson. “Delaware’s deer season is five months long, with the archery season opening on Sept. 1 and closing on Jan. 31, and it still amazes me that nearly 50 percent of the total harvest occurs during the eight-day November shotgun season. None of our other seasons produce nearly as many deer harvested as the November shotgun season.”

The 2010-11 season was the first year for Delaware’s five-month-long crossbow season, and hunters harvested 398 deer. This year, 516 deer were taken with crossbows, a 29.6 percent increase. When combined with the harvest from vertical bows (compound, recurve and longbows), the total archery harvest was 1,653 deer, ranking as the third highest archery harvest ever.

For more information about the Delaware deer harvest or any other deer-related issue, please contact Joe Rogerson at 302-735-3600 or visit the Division’s white-tailed deer information page at http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Hunting/Pages/DeerInfo.aspx.