2012 Hand County Hunting Guide

Cory FlorHand County Conservation Offi cer

The 2012 regular pheasant hunting season is nearly

upon us. I thought it would be time to

discuss the Hand County pheas-ant brood routes. The pheasant brood routes are conducted dur-ing the same time frame every year between July 25 and August 15. Each route is 30 miles long and the survey begins at sunrise. Certain conditions must be met in order for the brood route to be considered a primary run. There must be no wind, sunshine and heavy dew on the grass. Hand County has three pheasant brood routes; a north brood route, a middle brood route and a south brood route. With only 20 days to run the routes sometimes get-ting the perfect conditions can be tough, but this year I had perfect conditions the fi rst time I ran the route. I typically run the middle brood route and other GFP em-ployees run the other two routes. This year the middle brood route

showed an increase of seven broods in 2012 from 2011; it in-creased from 21 broods to 28 broods. That is an increase of about 33 percent from last year. Unfortunately we are not where we were three or four years ago when the hunting was outstand-ing. Hunters will no doubt have to work hard again this year to get their birds, but they can still have a quality hunt without lim-iting out every day. The fi rst week or two of the season should be pretty good with the majority of the crops having been harvest-ed already.

Hunters need to be aware of several laws and regulations

for pheasant season. First of all, make sure you buy your license prior to hunting. You can buy a license online at the SD Game, Fish and Parks website or visit one of our license agents in Mill-er. When you buy your non-res-ident license you need to pick your start dates. If you plan on hunting opening weekend you can mark October 20 as your fi rst

start date and then most hunters pick the last fi ve days of the sea-son for their second start date. However, prior to the beginning of the start dates hunters may change their start dates. For ex-ample, if you pick December 25 for your second start date you may change it anytime prior to December 25.

The non-resident small game license is not valid for water-fowl. Non-residents may hunt small game and predators and varmints with the small game license. If you want to change your start dates you need to go to the place where you bought it, or do it yourself online at the GFP website.

If someone asks to see your hunting license, you have to show it according to the law. It doesn’t matter whether the per-son is a law enforcement offi -cer or not, you still need to show them if they ask.

Wearing hunter orange is not required by law for small game hunting; however, with the num-

ber of hunters in the fi eld dur-ing the pheasant season, especial-ly the opener, it is still a good idea to wear or-ange for safety reasons.

If you are un-sure of a shot, don’t shoot. There will al-ways be another pheasant. Safe-ty should be the number one pri-ority of every hunter in the fi eld.

Trespass-ing is the most common viola-tion during the pheasant sea-son. If you are going to hunt private land make sure you get written per-mission from the landowner and make sure you know where their proper-ty is located. If you are convict-ed of knowingly trespassing your hunting, privi-leges will be re-voked for a peri-od of one year.

If you are go-ing to road hunt you need to pull your vehicle over to the fur-thest right-hand side of the road, turn your vehi-cle off and close the doors on the vehicle. If you shoot a pheasant and it falls onto private proper-

ty while road hunting the hunt-er may retrieve the bird as long as he puts his gun down before crossing the fence, and he must be on foot. Remember, when hunting road rights-of-way there is a 660-foot safety zone around occupied dwellings (houses), livestock, schools and churches. The Department of Game, Fish and Parks gives out white Safe-ty Zone signs to landowners who request them.

The pheasant season shoot-ing hours are 12 noon until sun-set October 20 through October 26, and 10 a.m. thereafter until sunset. This law is probably the second most common violation during pheasant season. Shoot-ing hours end at sunset, not one-half hour after like big game sea-sons. A sunrise/sunset table is in the back of the 2012 South Dako-ta Hunting Handbook that is easy to follow.

The daily limit of pheasants is three roosters with a possession limit of 15 after the fi fth day of the season. If you plan on hunt-ing public land, remember that you need to use non-toxic shot. However, you may use lead shot on state school lands, Walk-In-Areas and road rights-of-way. Re-member to be courteous to other hunters and landowners. Don’t clean your game in the road ditch, as it is considered littering and it looks awful for the people who live here.

If you plan on transport-ing your pheasants, you need to have a fully feathered head at-tached, or a fully feathered wing or one leg attached. However, if you shoot a rooster without a visible spur you need to have a head or wing attached. Hunt-ers may only transport their own lawfully possessed game birds. If

you have your birds frozen they must be packaged no more than two per package in order to facil-itate identifi cation and count of species.

T his would be a great year for people to pick up waterfowl

hunting. A lot of waterfowl are in the area and it should be a great year for waterfowl hunting. Non-residents who wish to hunt wa-terfowl in S.D. need to apply by July 5 of that year in order to have a chance to draw a license. If you didn’t do this by July 5 this year and already drew a li-cense, it is too late to apply for this year. Non-resident waterfowl licenses are limited to 4,000 li-censes statewide and they are all taken during the fi rst drawing. In order to assist waterfowl hunters the S.D. GFP has added a thun-derstorm map to their website to show where waterfowl numbers are the highest in the state. Also, I have had several waterfowl ac-cess trails mowed to the water’s edge on area GPAs to assist hunt-ers with water access.

This year, 15 rooster pheas-ants will be banded for the Mill-er Chamber of Commerce. The birds will be released prior to the fi rst day of the regular pheas-ant season. When you harvest a pheasant make sure you look for a band on its leg, as each band is worth a prize and one lucky hunter will win a gun.

If you have questions or com-ments feel free to contact my of-fi ce at 853-3644. Remember, this is a very busy time of year so it may take a few days to return your calls. If you would like to re-port a wildlife violation you can call the Tips Hotline 1-888-OVER-BAG (1-888-683-7224) or you can contact the sheriff’s offi ce, 853-2408.

Hand County Public Hunting Lands

2012 Hand County

HUNTING GUIDE

Pheasant broods up 33%

FREE COPY

A Special Publication of The Miller Press · www.themillerpress.com

Photo by Jaimi M. Lammers | The Miller Press

Photo by Jaimi M. Lammers | The Miller Press

The Miller Press 2012 Hunting Guide - page 2

114 W. SECOND ST. | PO BOX 196 | MILLER, S.D. 57362-0196605-853-3575 | [email protected]

WWW.THEMILLERPRESS.COM | WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/THEMILLERPRESS

While you’re in town, subscribe to The Miller

Press for $35 in Hand and surrounding counties, or

$45 for out of county.

to Miller, South Dakota!Home of

Happy Hunting!

THE MILLER PRESS

After years of “tinkering” and helping his dad, Tony Welch opened the doors to his own re-

pair shop, Tony’s Repair, a couple of years ago.

“It’s good to know you have a de-pendable repairman at hand, especial-ly if you’re from out of town.” Welch said.

A St. Lawrence native, Tony opened his shop at 206 N. Catalpa, in St. Law-rence. He changes oil, repairs and re-places tires, and completes other light repair work on vehicles.

His shop hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturdays. If your vehi-cle needs an oil change, a tire change or other service while hunting in the area, give Welch a call at 605-853-2781 or 605-870-1262.

Locally owned and operated auto and tire repair shop ready to serve

Citizens In Action have long supported Pheasants for Wessington

BOB’S DRIVE-IN

Miller, SD 893-0101

-Breakfast served Friday - Sunday 7-11 a.m.

-Barbecued Ribs, Saturdays 5-8 p.m.-Broasted Chicken

-Lunches packed for the field

-Seating for dine-in-Will cater for all occasions

HOURS: Closed Mondays; Tuesdays 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.,

Wednesday - Thursday11 a.m. - 8 p.m.Friday - Sunday7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

‘You can taste the diff erence’ at Bob’s Drive-InIf you’re looking for good, down-home

cooking, stop at Bob’s Drive-In. Owner Tara Koeck says everything on

the menu is homemade…fresh, not pack-aged. “If you order gravy, you get home-made gravy,” she said.

Hunters are invited to stop by for break-fast, and especially taste her homemade doughnuts. She will also prepare lunches to take to the fi eld. Come in for supper af-ter the hunt, and unwind after a day outdoors.

Broasted chicken is al-ways a favorite, and with the warmer, there is no waiting for it to bake.

Although the name is “Bob’s Drive-In,” inside seating is available.

In addition to meals, you will fi nd ice cream prod-ucts and old-fashioned malts.

Once you’ve stopped for breakfast, lunch or supper,

you’ll know why the slogan is, “You can taste the difference.”

The drive-in is closed Mondays. Hours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Tuesday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The phone number is 893-0101.

Wessington’s community group, Citizens in Ac-tion, is celebrating its 25th anniversa-ry this year. Citi-zens in Action has been known by sev-eral names through the years. It original-ly started when the Wessington chapter of the Jaycees disbanded and people were looking to still help. It became the Pheas-ants for Wessington group, with a goal of helping maintain the pheasant popula-tion of the area through raising birds and planting food plots. Several fundraisers were held, but the most successful was the Pheasant Banquet. It has become the mainstay of the organization’s funding.

The goal of the group has evolved into one of not only pheasant restoration but that of community service. The Citizens in Action (CIA) now spends half of the pro-ceeds on community projects. Some of these projects in the past have been: Af-ter School Program, Hunter Safety Pro-gram, Kids Fishing Derby, Swimming Pool Fund, Kids Pool Party, Shrine Circus, Post

Prom Party, Youth Coaches, Play-ground Equipment, Governor’s Youth Leadership Camp, Wessington Com-munity Club, local blood drive, Amer-

ican Legion, Highway 14 fl owers, Wess-ington Public Library, W.E.D.C., Cancer Walk, Relay for Life, and several commu-nity dances.

The CIA always keeps a balance avail-able so that they c an raise birds and hab-itat in a hurry if ever the need arises. A banquet, auction and raffl es will be held in the Wessington Gym on Friday, Oct. 19. Dinner will be served from 5 to 7 p.m., and the purchase of a ticket will enter a person in a raffl e to give away 100 dollars in Wessington Bucks to each of 25 lucky people. Everyone is eligible, including the children, and the money can be spent at any of the local businesses, including the auction held after the dinner. Everybody is welcome to come help celebrate 25 years of service.

If you’re goingFriday, Oct. 19 · Wessington Gym

Dinner, 5-7 p.m. · Auction & Raffl e

Aim for hunting safetyWith the hunting and

trapping season fast ap-proaching, it’s important to keep safety in mind when venturing outdoors. Both hunters and non-hunters who live near hunting land have a re-sponsibility to protect themselves, their pets and livestock and their proper-ty. Here are some tips from American Family Insur-ance:

Protect yourselfMany states require

new hunters to complete a hunter-safety course be-fore taking to the fi eld. These courses will pro-vide important safety pre-cautions like dressing in proper apparel, whether its camoufl age or blaze or-ange. People who hike in areas where hunters may

be present should wear bright clothing. Don’t let children go on hikes with-out an adult.

Protect your livestockEven landowners who

never pull a trigger or set traps must take precau-tions to protect their land and animals during hunt-ing season.

Because pets and live-stock are sometimes mis-taken for deer or are caught in traps, it is wise to lock up animals that usually have free reign of your land. Many farmers spray paint an “X” on the fl anks of grazing livestock to help avoid confusion. Pen livestock near farm buildings to further distin-guish them from deer, and check your animals and gates daily.

Protect your propertyHomeowners should

think twice before openingup their acreage to anyoneexcept family members and close friends. They ex-pose not only their proper-ty to accidental losses, but also themselves to liability and potential litigation.

If you don’t want hunt-ers on your land, post “No Trespassing” or “No Hunt-ing” signs around the pe-rimeter of your property. If you do permit access, re-quire the hunters to check in each time they en-ter your property, and get the names of each person in the hunting party. Of-ten one person who ob-tains permission to hunt on a farm feels free to in-vite others without inform-ing the landowner.

Tony’s RepairTony’s RepairTony Welch, Owner

Open Mon-Fri 8-5 & Sat 8-Noon

206 N. CatalpaSt. Lawrence, SD 57373Shop: 605-853-2781Cell: 605-870-1262

• Oil Changes• New Tires• Tire Repairs• Minor Mechanic Work


License Agents

Alco218 E 15 St, Miller605-853-9299M-Sat 8AM-8PM, Sun 9AM-6PMMidwest Supply119 E 2nd St, Miller605-853-2121Ace Hardware219 N Broadway, Miller605-853-3304Ree Heights Grocery114 S Dakota Ave, Ree Heights605-943-5532And online atwww.gfp.sd/gov

Resident LicensesFees as of October 1, 2012. Subject to change.

Resident Small Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $31*

* Resident youth, age 16 to 18, must buy the Junior Combination License.

Resident 1-Day Small Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $12*

Resident Youth Small Game (ages 12-15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7*

Resident Migratory Bird Certifi cation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5

Resident Furbearer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $27*

Resident Predator/Varmint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7*

Non-Resident LicensesNonresident Small Game (10-days, (2) 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$120**

Nonresident Youth Small Game (ages 12-15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $14*

Nonresident Shooting Preserve, One Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $37*

* Nonresident youth, under age 16, should purchase the less expensive Youth Small Game license, which includes (2) 5-day periods of general small game hunting in addition to the shooting preserve privileges above.

Nonresident Shooting Preserve, Five-Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $67*

Nonresident Shooting Preserve, Season-Long . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $87*

Nonresident Predator/Varmint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $37*

Nonresident Furbearer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$250

* Includes $2 agent feeThese surcharges are mandated by state law. Money derived from the charge is dedicated to hunting access and wildlife damage management programs.

Fluorescent OrangeBig game licensees hunting with a

fi rearm in SD must wear at least one

exterior garment of fl uorescent orange

while hunting. Garments include hat,

shirt, vest, jacket, coat or sweater. Turkey

hunters do not need to wear fl uorescent

orange.

FirearmsIt is illegal to use an auto-loading or self-

loading fi rearm capable of holding more

than six cartridges to hunt big game;

or capable of being operated as a full

automatic to hunt big game or small

game. Only soft point or expanding

bullets are permitted.

All welcome at Wall Lake Club’s banquetAs it has in many years past, Wall Lake

Hunting Club is putting on a feast, an auction, and a good evening out for out-of-state hunters, as well as local residents. An evening of entertainment is one to ev-eryone.

Meet at the American Legion Hall in Miller on Monday, Oct. 22. The social hour begins at 6:30 p.m., with the meal to be served at 8 p.m.

According to Fred Hubbard, there will be a couple of .22 rifl es given away as door prizes (you must be present to win). One shotgun will also be given to a lucky raffl e winner present at the banquet, and another will be drawn, in which the win-ner need not be present.

An auction will also be a featured part of the evening. Hubbard said many items have been donated for the auction, in-cluding the ever-popular art prints.

Among those donating auction pieces are out-of-state hunters Gary Kock, Ger-ald Lehnheer, the Bill Arendt family, and

Miller native Jack Dennis.Although the yearly get-together is

looked forward to for the good food and good time, Hubbard said the purpose of the banquet is to raise money to support numerous projects during the year.

Last year, the club purchased 30 tons of ear corn for wildlife food. Members also sponsored the Kids’ Fishing Derby, held at Lake Louise in June. Sixty-two kids partic-ipated. Hubbard said every young angler received fi shing gear. Prizes, furnished by the club and Cabela’s, were presented to the winners in the biggest-fi sh categories. And of course, they provided hot dogs and pop for kids and adults alike.

The club donated $750 for the Hand County 4-H Shooting Sports.

Later on, for the annual youth Hunt-SAFE course, the club provided clay pi-geons and shells, plus pop and pizza.

Young participants in the HuntSAFE course are invited to a pheasant hunt on Kenny Werdel’s land. Wall Lake Hunting Club provided clay pigeons and shells, as well as plenty of food. Two shotguns were given during the hunt, one provid-ed by the club, and one by hunter Kirby Growe. The club also provided a youth ri-fl e to a young hunter, whose name was drawn from those who had purchased Hand County deer licenses.

Wall Lake Hunting Club was formed February 6, 1959, and had 75 members, who shared a passion for hunting, fi shing and the outdoor life. That tradition con-tinues.

Training a gun dogYour hunting dog will

learn dozens of commands over the course of his hunting years. Some will be quite basic and others much more advanced. It is safe to say that there is one command that is pos-sibly the most important – Whoa. It is the command that has the power to stop everything, and if your dog cannot grasp it, it can be tragic. Maybe that sounds dramatic, but it is quite true.

In the most basic terms, “Whoa” is a command that tells the dog to immediate-ly stop and stay. To a non-hunting house pet, the term “whoa” is similar to “stay,” but it should also stop any behavior that is currently happening. When the well-trained dog hears “Whoa,” he will stop in his tracks and wait there for further instruction. This

command allows the train-er to stop everything and retrace steps, correct er-rors, or make adjustments.

The most pivotal reason that “whoa” holds the im-portance it does is because of your dog’s safety. Your hunting dog is excited, even thrilled, to be hunt-ing at your side. Your dog may be so thrilled, in fact, that he does not notice the rattlesnake, skunk, or por-cupine. As the human, you have to be able to alert your dog to the danger and immediately stop him. Oth-er dangers that you might encounter on your hunt are swiftly moving rivers or thin ice atop lakes and ponds. Beyond that, your dog’s excitement can carry him across roads where ve-hicles are not alert to your dog’s presence. It is crucial that you see the entire situ-ation ahead of you and can

stop your dog in his tracks. The dog’s mastery of the “whoa” command could save his life.

There are various ways to train the “whoa” com-mand. One method uses a sling of sorts that al-lows the trainer to lift the dog into the air, remov-ing him from his comfort zone. There is also the ta-ble method that places the dog atop a table for train-ing. The barrel method is similar to this, but takes place on a barrel turned on its side. The barrel will roll if the dog moves, so this is an effective way to teach the dog to hold still. There is also the walking meth-od where the training takes place as you are in for-ward motion. Regardless of your method, teaching the “whoa” command is a very important element in your dog’s training.

��

��

��

��

��

!��"�#��"�� $��"�% ��&��

�� !��"#$�

��

��

��

Two rifles to be given away as door prizes

��

��

��

��

�

�

�

��

��

��

Daily lunch specials � Including Hot Beef Combos

� Soup and Salad Bar � Grill will be on

� Pizzas made to order

212 N Commercial Ave. � St. Lawrence, SD 57373 � 605-853-9291

��Bar � and � Grill

�� Prime Rib Buffet All you can eat slow roasted, hot and juicy Prime Rib dinner! Beginning opening weekend at St. Lawrence Fire Hall, 1/2 block south of Willie’s Groups of 6+ call for reservations

Only $2799 - includes salad and baked potato. Bar available.

Chad Taylor will be cooking his famous Prime Rib select weekends through hunting season

Open Tues. -Fri.at 11 a.m.

Open Saturday at 4 p.m.closed Sunday & Monday

Off-Sale Liquor available

TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

Call Kori at Willie’s for reservations:

605-853-9291�24 hour notice

�Minimum party of 6

Willie’s donates part of its proceeds to the City of St. Lawrence

On Hand Development ready to assist businessesThe pheasant season is a wel-

come event to the Miller area. Hand County one of the top

counties for the number of pheas-ants harvested per non-resident hunter and local residents are al-ways ready to extend a welcoming hand to visitors during hunting sea-son.

Hunters spent more than $8 mil-lion in Hand County during the 2010 season, which is a welcome boon to the economy. According to records, 70,613 pheasants were harvested in Hand County last year!

Through the years our community has become a hunter’s paradise by gearing up to host pheasant hunters. The business community increases their capacity and service during the season. Our airport has extended the runway and constructed a pilot’s lounge for the convenience of hunt-ers that fl y into our region. Various community groups cater to meeting the needs of pheasant hunters.

We are fortunate to live in an area that has such a vibrant community. We have top-notch agricultural pro-duction, the hospital is expanding, our business community is second-to-none for a town our size, we have a wind farm, and the school system is excellent. Our community boasts excellent recreational opportunities, which include golfi ng, Lake Louise Recreation Area, fi shing, a drive-in theatre and racing cars or go-karts. Cultural opportunities abound with an active arts council, historical so-

ciety, and writers group.On Hand Development Corpo-

ration plays a role in assisting our business community. The mission of On Hand Development Corpora-tion is to support the growth of new businesses and assist the expansion of existing businesses while striving to improve the overall economy of the Miller area.

To meet our mission, we employ a number of strategies. We can as-sist with business planning, fi nanc-ing, and site location. We work with many local, state, public and pri-vate organizations that support busi-nesses such as the City of Miller, the Small Business Administration, the Governor’s Offi ce of Economic De-velopment, and Northeast South Da-kota Economic Corporation.

We also work closely with the Miller Civic and Commerce, which has been very active over the past year in promoting Miller and im-proving the business climate in our area.

Feel free to stop in and visit us anytime. It would be our plea-sure to assist you in your busi-

ness ventures. Even if you aren’t starting or expanding a business, but just have some ideas for how our community could improve, we would appreciate your input.

With the opportunities that are available in our area we are looking forward to being “On Hand” for an-other exciting year!


��

�� !��"��#�� $%&''��(��)�� *��+�,'%-.'/-'01'��2��+�,'%-.'/-',/3� ��4��+�,'%-.'/-'3/%�

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��5��6

37.��8�#��9��:��&�� &

��

��

��

��

�� !�� "!

How to clean a pheasantKansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

Here is one way to begin preparing pheasants for the table. Equipment needed: a sturdy pair of kitchen or game shears. At all steps in the process take care to avoid cutting yourself on the sharp edges of broken bones.

Step 1 First, remove the wings by cutting them off as close to the body as pos-sible. Again, watch out for broken bones.

Step 2 Remove both wings.

Step 3 Remove the head by cutting through the neck as close to the body as pos-sible.

Step 4 The next step is to remove the legs. Remem-ber that you must keep one leg attached to the bird for transport. The spur on the leg identifi es the bird as a legal cock pheasant.

Step 5 Remove the leg by cutting at the “knee” joint.

Step 6 Starting at the top of the breast, skin the bird by pulling the skin to-ward the tail.

Step 7 As you begin skinning, the crop will be exposed.

Step 8 By noting what food is in the crop, you can begin to plan your next hunt to take advantage of this information.

Step 9 Skin all the way to the tail. Remove tail by cutting it off at the point where it joins the body.

Step 10 Cut along both sides of the backbone from neck to tail.

Step 11 Pull backbone from tail to neck. Most of the entrails will come with it. Remove any remaining entrails and the lungs.

Step 12 After wash-ing in cold water, this bird is ready for packaging. Cleaned quickly and prop-erly this bird will make for some fi ne eating.

From Game, Fish & ParksWith the opening of the 2012 South Dakota Pheasant Season just around the corner, SD GFP would like to provide you with links to all things pheasant.� We hope you fi nd the information you need at the links below, but if you have more questions, please feel free to contact Chuck Schlueter at [email protected] or Chris Hull at [email protected] with any outdoor related questions you might have.

Pheasant Outlookhttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/small-game/pheasant-outlook.aspx

Pheasant Economicshttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/small-game/pheasant-economics.aspx

Pheasant Historyhttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/small-game/images/pheasant-stats.pdf

Pheasant Recipeshttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/to-do/cooking/pheasant.aspx

Public Hunting Opportunity (Walk Ins)http://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/areas/

License Fees & Requirementshttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/licenses/general-hunt-fi sh/license-list.aspx

Mentored Huntinghttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/youth-hunt/mentored-hunt/default.aspx

Hunting Regulationshttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/regulations/default.aspx�

Other Hunting Season Infohttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/hunting/default.aspx

Pheasant Biology (4-part series)http://www.gfp.sd.gov/ePubs/digest/ PheasantEcology/PheasantEcology-online.pdf

Hunter Safety & Safety Tipshttp://www.gfp.sd.gov/outdoor-learning/hunter-education/

Nontoxic Shot requirements��http://gfp.sd.gov/hunting/areas/rules-information.aspx

Turn In Poachers��http://gfp.sd.gov/agency/law-enforcement/turn-in-poachers.aspx


Tucker’s ��

A hearty welcome to all hunters! We’re glad you’re here!

Tucker’s is the place to pick up your groceries and lots more!

We’ve got batteries • cards • books & magazines • ice & ice chests

• discount bottle shop • cooking utensils • dog food�• dry ice (order Wednesday morning

for Thursday pick up or Friday for Monday pick up)

Check out our Deli Chesterfried chicken • rotisserie chicken • potatoes

• salads • take and bake pizzas

For your convenienceFax Center • Postage • Western Union • Travelers Express Money

Orders • Gift Certificates • ATM • We accept Visa, Master Card, and

Discover, WIC & Dakota EBT

Now Available Beer, wine and liquor 7 days a week

Tuckers

��

See us for all yourHunting Dog

Needs and Supplies

Hours 8:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday - Saturday

We carry Science Dietdog food, leashes,

and collars�

��

��

��

DeRouchey Veterinary ClinicDowntown Miller 853-0034

Dr. Kevin Cain Dr. Ashley Coulter • Dr. Clayton Thorson

Hi-Lite Steakhouse & Lounge605-853-9296 109 No. Broadway • Miller, SD

��

Serving LuunchgServrvving LunchMonday - Saturday • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.MoMon Daily Speecials • Soup & Sandwich SpecialsDa sDaDai lsServing Suupperg ppServServrvMonday - SSaturday • 5 - 11 • Open first 3 SundaysMon ay • 5 - 11 • Oppen firsrstst 3 Sun aysys

gFeaturing:gg:Featuring:ri ggggFeatturing:��Homemmade Daily SpecialsH emade Dailly Spe i ls��SteaksSt ks�� ChickennCC�� pWalleyee and Shrimpd ShrimpW iWa d Shrimp�� Salad Baar w/supperSS w/s�� Mixed ddrinks, wines, beerM beeM beer

Why settle for theWh foor ththhe same old steakssa

when you can have whwh

New York StripsNew

If you’re looking for great food and friendly hospitality, look no further than the Hi Lite Steakhouse & Lounge, located at 109 N. Broadway in Miller. Trish Resel has owned the Hi Lite for 11 years, and she enjoys

meeting hunters who visit the area. “Especially during hunting season, we want to serve our lunch

customers with a quick turn-around time,” Trish says. Lunch is served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with dai-ly specials and soup and sandwich specials.

“If you’re anxious to get to the fi eld, call ahead at 853-9296 and order your meal,” Trish suggests.

The supper hour runs from 5 to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 5 to 10 p.m. on the Sundays. (Note the Hi-Li-te will be open the fi rst three Sundays of hunting season.)

A salad bar is available with the evening meal. Steak is the specialty, but chicken, walleye and other fi sh specials are also on the menu. “Hunters like the steaks, and we fea-ture prime rib, tenderloin and New York strip,” Trish says.

The Hi Lite also has a full range of mixed drinks, wines and beer. “We invite our guests to try our

fabulous martinis or other mixed drinks,” Trish says.

If a large group of hunters plans to come for the evening meal, Trish suggests call-ing ahead so the space is ready when they arrive.

“We’re always happy to serve hunt-ers,” Trish says. “Stop by and try the varied menu we have to offer.”

Lunch and dinner meals off er great taste and variety

Convenient campground facilitiesS & J Campground in St. Lawrence offers

all the amenities you’re looking for, if you’re planning to camp during the hunt.

The campgound, located next door to Willie’s Steakhouse, has 10 campsites, with water, sewer, electricity and garbage dispos-al.

Whether you have a large motor home or a two-person tent, you’ll enjoy the qui-et campground with plenty of parking space.

Hunting dogs are welcome, and rates are reasonable.

Shirley Peck has owned the campground for three years. She rents campsites on a dai-ly, weekly or monthly basis.

Camp next door to an eating establish-ment, walk across the street to the post of-fi ce, or down the block to a gun shop.

For more information, or to make a reser-vation, call (605) 853-2622 or 204-0642.

�� !��"#��$%�&��'��(��)�

�� !�"�#�� $��%�&��$��"��

��%��%�� %�� #��$��#��%��#��'��%��"��#'�

��$#��

*�+� '��!��, �� '�-��)��)!��.�/��!�+��+�� -��!� �� '��+��-��!��'��

��

&�0�� )��!�� !��)��(�/�))� '�� 1��!��2��

�� 3�&��

4��5��

&��#�� 6�) �0��

��7!��)� �*� �� '&&8�0��

S&JCampground & RV Park

Conveniently located south of Willie’s Steakhouse in St. Lawrence

Reasonable Ratessonable Ra sby the day,h dayay,y,week or monthweweek or month

Peacefuland quiet

S&J


��

��

��

�� !�"��#��$

%��&�� '�("��)*+�,+-�-../�� 0��)��,��1��

Special hoursOpen Sunday Oct. 21 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

853-2121119 E 2nd St, Miller

Midwest Supply 7:30 am to 5:30 pm

1��$�2�� 1&��

1�� !��1 ��3�� 4�5� �

1��$�4� ��

1�6��

For all your

hunting needs�

888888111111122222 NNNNNooooorrthhh BBBBrrrroooooooooaaaaaaaadddddddddddwwwwwwwwaaaayyyyyyyMMMMMMMMiiiiilllllllleeerrrrrrrrrr,,,, SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

66666666666600000000000000000000055555555555555555555555555-----------88888888888888888888888888555555555555553333333333------333333336666666666111111111111144444444444444

• Family Café • Tavern• Liquor Store and More

• Full Menu - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner• We Pack Lunches for the Hunt

• Broasted Chicken • Piccadilly Pizza and Tacos• Soft Serve Ice Cream - 11 flavors

• Espresso • Ice Cold Beer• Large Selection of Liquor and Wine

• We Sell Shotgun Shells • ATM• Food Pick-up and Liquor Drive-thru Windows

Open at 7 am Monday-Saturday Grill on til 9 pmNoon Specials Monday-Friday 11:30 am-1:30 pm

Eat in or carry outt

� �il C fé• Family Café • Ta• Famiiilly CCaféféfééé • TaTa

•• Liquor Store and•• Liquor Store and

��

��

Bobbi, Jerry and Jacki Fanning

Th e Virginian rolls out the welcome mat for huntersThe Virgin-

ian wel-comes

locals and all hunters with special menu plans during hunting season.

Since Miller began, a hotel and/or dining establishment has stood on the corner of Broad-way and East First Street, be-ginning with the Vanderbilt Hotel in 1882.

Today, The Virginian stands on that loca-tion, providing a great place for meals, coffee, meet-ings and other gatherings.

George and Leatha Quinlan of Virginia purchased the former Taylor’s Restaurant in September 2007 and renamed it The Virgin-ian. The Quinlans also purchased the Heidepriem House, which is now operated as a bed and break-fast. Robin Sporrer is manager of The Virginian and Marcie Christo-pherson manages the B&B.

The Virginian is open from 6 a.m. and throughout the evening hours, and breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. In addition to the restaurant, there are also two meeting rooms, a game room and a bar area.

Sporrer says a hunters’ break-fast buffet will be served the fi rst week of pheasant hunting season,

including the fi rst two week-ends. A chick-en and rib din-ner buffet will be available during evening hours the fi rst two weekends of the sea-son, in addi-tion to the reg-ular fall menu. Prime rib will be available Friday and Sat-urday evenings during the fi rst part of pheas-ant season.

Sporrer says The Virginian also does cater-

ing, for any size event.

Special events are coming up, including live music every weekend from November 1

to January 1. December 19 will be Customer Appreciation Night from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m, and will feature the “Dueling Duo,” Andy Gibson and Ryno. No reservations are needed, and there will be no cover charge. Wrapping up the year will be a pre-New Year’s Eve party on December 29, with the Andy Gib-son band playing.

For party bookings or cater-ing, call 853-0045. It’s also a perfect time to start booking

for Christmas parties. Sporrer says that although it

gets a bit hectic during hunting season, a warm Western welcome is extended to all customers.

Coming EventsNovember 1 - January 1Live music every week-end

December 19Customer Appreciation Night, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m, featuring the “Dueling Duo,” Andy Gibson and Ryno

December 29Pre-New Year’s Eve par-ty with the Andy Gibson band

605-853-0045 • 102 No. Broadway • Miller SD

TheVIRGINIAN

Hunters’ Breakfast BuffetDaily October 20-29 , open 6:00 a.m.

Chicken and Rib Dinner BuffetOctober 19-20 and 26-27

Prime RibFriday and Saturday evenings

Regular Fall Menu available

WWeLcLcOcOme Huntnttersrs!


Top treatment for man’s best friendM

any hunters consider their trusty hunting dog a true and necessary companion

when stalking the pheasants. Dr. Eric Knock and Dr. Heather Mitch-ell of Miller Veterinary Clinic are geared up for hunting season and taking care of any needs that might arise.

Dr. Knock says several hunters stop by before hunting to get the dogs their yearly vaccinations. And the clinic always has someone on call in case of an emergency.

“We get a lot of calls when a dog is injured, perhaps they tan-gled with barbed wire or have oth-er medical needs,” Dr. Knock said.

In addition to providing vaccina-tions and responding to medical/surgical needs, Miller Vet Clinic

has a full line of fi rst-aid products, skunk-off spray, de-wormers and related items. They also carry Sci-ence Diet dog food.

“We do receive a lot of calls af-ter hours,” added Dr. Mitchell. “The easiest way to reach us after hours is to call the offi ce number, 853-0008, and it will be rerouted. Regular hours are 8 to 5:30 Mon-day through Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Turn at the Dairy Queen/ALCO road to reach the clinic.”

“A lot of hunters stop by dur-ing pheasant season,” Dr. Knock said. “We know how important the hunting dogs are, and we’re here to help with any needs. Next to calving season, hunting season is our busiest time of year.”

��

��

�� !!��"�#��$��%

• Vaccinations and all surgical needs • First aid products for your dog • Skunk-off spray • Dewormers • Science Diet dog food • Always on call for emergencies

Ready for all your dog related needs

�� !��"�"��#�� $��%��#��&��'��

THE

DEWDROP INN()*+,*-+./-0��0+,((+,*-+./-0.)0�'��0/��1��1��2�3��"2��2��"��

Saturday & Sunday ~ October 20 & 217:00 - 11:00 a.m. both days

Miller High School Commons

Proceeds to go toward the Hand County Ambulance Service

Menu: Pancakes, Sausage,

Scrambled Eggs, Juice & Milk Free will offering

Hunters’Breakfast Benefit

Hand County Ambulance

Noon SpecialSlice of Pizza & Pop - $200

Don’sPizza

.0.�4�"�5��12

��

6��7� ��3�4+�4��04+4

#��3�4+4��$�04+4#��04+4

()*+,*-+./0.

��5��#��5��66�4+4��6�04+4

7�5��8�9�:9��0

��

When you take to the fi eld for search of the wily pheasant, the last thing you want to worry

about is uncomfortable footwear.Polly Shoe Store, located at 118 N.

Broadway, has a full line of boots, shoes and leisure footwear, including moccasins and slippers.

Polly Shoe Store has been part of the Miller business scene for many years, and Theresa and Les Eschenbaum have been the owners for nearly 33 years.

“The Red Wing hunting/work boot is always popular,” Theresa says. Wolverine hikers are also available for both men and women. The boots come with the Wolver-ine iCS wave disk, which has four settings to choose from, allowing you to custom-ize your comfort.

The disk, located on the heel of the boot, allows you to adjust the fi rmness, choose the amount of cushioning, and add inner and outer support. The outer support provides extra stability for high arch, and reduces outward tilt. The in-

ner support allows extra support for low arch or for reducing inward tilt. “It’s a new concept, and you can move the disk to provide just what you need,” Theresa explained.

Another top seller is the Jox Sox line, with the product guaranteed for life. On a cold fall morning, these socks provide warmth and comfort.

“We also have all types of leather-care products, including waterproofi ng and weatherproofi ng products,” Theresa says.

In addition to all types of boots and shoes, the Eschenbaums carry a large se-lection of luggage, health back bags, and purses.

“If you’re looking for bargains, we have half-price shoes in the back room,” Theresa said. Same high quality, but with a lower price sticker.

The store is open 9 to 5:30 weekdays, and 9 to 5 on Saturday. Stop by and check out the large selection of shoes, boots and other products.

88'��88�� 9��&

�� 3� ��

�� !��"��""

: � � � � �:��3�� """

��&

6�� '��6�3��

��1��3;

=�1�=<�= 3��&�

�� >��6��?'��3�5��>�� 6��?'��3 5��

Check out 1/2 price

shoes in the back!

Th e right footwear while in the fi eld makes all the diff erence!

�� *�5�9��!��;��444*�5�9��!�� 444�5 9��!� �� *�5 9��!� ��;�� *�*�5�9��!��;��444��

��

)*+,*-+.-@@�(((()()()*<��6��0/�9�/*<��6��0/�9�/<�� 6�� 0/ 9 /*< *<�<� /*/*��12�� 12�� 12


Rexall Drug…for health supplies, and much moreRexall Drug has been a mainstay of

the Miller community for many years. Although it is housed in a

100-year-old building, renovations make the store welcoming and up-to-date, while maintaining an old-fashioned soda foun-tain area.

Pharmacists Travis Anderberg and Trent Merkwan are quick to point out that not only does the store have a full range of health-care needs for humans, Rex-all also carries health needs for the dogs that accompany the hunters. “Every year we also have visiting hunters that come in because they forgot or have run out of a prescription. We can transfer prescrip-tions if needed.”

The store carries a variety of South Da-kota memorabilia, including postcards, keychains and coffee mugs. “Jewelry, es-pecially Black Hills Gold, is always a pop-

ular gift item for out-of-state hunters, and we have a good selection,” Travis said.

Visitors are also impressed by the soda fountain, seldom seen in larger cit-ies. “They like our ‘world-famous’ malts,” Travis notes. “There is also a lunch selec-tion available.”

He added, “Many visitors also like to take advantage of our photo service. They may also print out their own digital pho-tos on our new kiosk machine.

“A lot of visitors like the down-home feeling of the store, and we’re also here to help with any health problems,” Trav-is said.

Store hours are 8:30 to 5:30 Monday through Friday, and 8:30 to 3 on Satur-day. Call 853-3647. The toll-free number is 1-800-201-3647. Check out the full ser-vice store at millerrexall.com.

At Pheasant Fun we strive to provide an amazing wild pheasant hunt. We cater to small groups pro-viding greater customer service. Our birds are 100%wild and we are constantly maintaining and improv-ing our hunting land. With our low prices, diverse habitat and an abundant number of wild pheasants, you will experience a memorable hunt.

��

nPPheaeasasasaanT FunPh

Randy Adamowicz(262) 914-0901

19111 366th Avenue, St. Lawrence, SD 57373www.pheasantfun.net

with Ra ynanT FunnnTT FFFwith Rwiwitithth RaRananddy

Great hunting off ered in a natural habitat setting Randy Adamowicz of Wisconsin owns

land near St. Lawrence, right smack in the middle of pheasant county.

He’s making his dream come true on his 80 acres—with Pheasant Fun with Randy.

Adamowicz says the property provides prime pheasant hunting, because the land has never been plowed...it is virgin habitat, and plenty of pheasants love to call the area home.

Adamowicz’s land includes two shelter-belts, and Little Turtle Creek runs through the property, which is all pastureland.

With a passion for pheasant hunting that spans four generations, Pheasant Fun with Randy was established in 2006. Ex-tensive re-search in the ring-necked pheasant, their mat-ing patterns and habitat, led to the South Dakota farm in Miller. “Our land supports our love for pheasant hunting in its natural form. We do not plant birds,” he states.

He adds, “Catering to small groups pro-vides our undivided attention to hunt-ers when we guide, or the fl exibility of hunting the fi elds with your own dog and friends, a facet of hunting which all hunt-ers have grown to love. When you pull up to our property, you will not see yellow school buses that have dropped off large numbers of hunters. Our fami-ly-owned farm offers you pheas-ant hunting in its purest form. With the availabil-ity of our fi ve-passen-ger UTV, no hunter needs to worry that they cannot keep up the pace of oth-er hunters in the group. Each hunt-er can be ac-commodat-ed to his own physical abil-ity level.”

Adamow-

icz has fresh water and snacks always avail-able during the day to energize hunters forthe next leg of their hunt.

He even has hunting dogs available, in case the hunters need them. He likes to ca-ter to groups of two to fi ve hunters.

Adamowicz notes, “What I want to repli-cate is hunting in a family atmosphere ratherthan large groups. I hunted with my grand-father and my father, that’s what I grew upwith, and I believe a lot of hunters would like that same experience.”

Adamowicz says pheasant hunting, for him, is not a hobby---it is a passion. Withhis land now available, he wants to share

that passionwith others who want a good place tohunt, to re-lax, and toenjoy the ex-perience.

“I consider this a small business just during pheasant season,” he explains. “Al-though this is not a large acreage, huntersneed to realize you can’t correlate the num-ber of pheasants to the number of acres...you have to take into account the type of acreage. The habitat on this farm holdspheasants.”

The land is located northeast of St. Law-rence, with airport and lodging facilities nearby in Miller, as well as camping sites in St. Lawrence.

“I know the great joyI had grow-ing up, hunt-ing with close familyand friends. That is whatI want to of-fer here,” he says.

He can be reached bycalling 262-914-0901 or by e-mailing him at [email protected]. HisWebsite iswww.pheas-antfun.net.

“I know the great joy I had growing up, hunting with close family and friends.

Th at is what I want to off er here.”~ Randy Adamowicz

Ace Hardware has good stock of hunting suppliesAce Hardware,

219 N. Broad-way, has hunt-

ing licenses and a lit-tle bit of everything else for hunters in the area. The store carries shells, coolers, clay pigeons, hand tools and a variety of other items you might need before heading out for the hunt. Don’t forget batteries for the cam-era, or other electron-ic needs.

Although the Ace Hardware company

is one of the world’s largest member-owned hardware coopera-tives, local owner John Niederauer has been in business—fi rst as Coast to Coast, then True Value, and now Ace Hardware—for 40 years, and he takes pride in serving his customers at the local level.

Patsy LeGrand, Vicky Russell, Gay Miller Stulken and Marita Coyle have been employed at Ace

Hardware for many years…they’ll be hap-py to help you with all your hunting needs. The store also has a supply of hunting vests, and belt pheas-ant carriers. Stop by and check out the mer-chandise.

The store is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Miller Rexall DrugCard and Gift Center - “Prescriptions our Speciality”

209 North Broadway - Miller, SD

605-853-3647 - Toll Free 1-800-201-3647

��

��

��

��

��

��!�� "��

��!��"��#$%&�'$%&��(��#$%&�%

(��)��*��+�� ,��$��#��$��%�"��!��&��!��#��'��

(��$

Welcome to Miller, Hunters!

�� !""�#�$!""�#

(� )��(� ��(� #��(� ��(� �� *��(� *�� $ ��+��

Miller’s the friendliest town on the prairie,

and ACE is the friendliest store in town!

)��!� ��-�#'%�%%&.

� ��,,-../-..�0��+��,12

3��4��1-..5-/.�� 1-..5-..


��

��

�� !�"��

��#!��$%��&��'�()��*� +��,�

-.�*�/�%01�20343$02

��5��-�6

7��8��'��(��9:��;-"��!�"��

��#!��$%��&��'�()��*� +��,�-.�*�/�%01�20343$02

��9'��<��8��8'� +��;

�'9��)��,�.��=��'��+�-+�'��,��(��'��

��#!��$%��&��'�()��*� +��,�-.

/�%01�20343$02

>��''��'�)��(�8'��?+��'�&

��8� ��

��

>��8��8��@&5��&��8��+AA��@&5�

-+��B'+��'��

�@&5�

�!CD��'9��&��%��6&��@&$��*�0��6&��5&$��

��&�&�4�55�&�&

��8��8:��:��8�9:�9��'�8�'��9��+�'

>�E��8:��+��(��9�;

Pump ‘N Pak off ers quality food, served with a smilePump ‘N Pak is a busy place.

Obviously, the store sells diesel and gasoline. But owner Lorelei

Simons says a big draw is the food.“The Hot Stuff Pizza and Smash Hits

Deli bring in a lot of customers. It’s good, quality food.”

Lorelei has owned Pump ‘N Pak for 13 years, and she gives much credit for the operation’s success to her employ-ees. “They are just the best. They are great people,” she says. “They are also knowledgeable if hunters come in with questions. We know the names of peo-ple who have lands to hunt on. We en-joy our visitors and want to make them feel at home.”

The store carries a full line of snacks, pop and beer, ice and ice pops and con-venience store items.

“We also have cold 12-packs and gal-lons of water. The hunters appreciate that.”

Lorelei promotes their full line of breakfast items, including breakfast piz-

za, burritos and sandwiches, as well as coffee, hot chocolate and cappuccino. “Many of the hunters appreciate this, they can pick up their breakfast and be on their way.”

The hunters also like the “one-stop” shopping when it’s time to get to the fi elds. “They can get their gas, ice�and lunch to go,” Lorelei said. “We also have an ATM machine, and we do have movie rentals and a video lottery area.”

Pump ‘N Pak is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m to 10 p.m. on Sundays. The kitch-en is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Lorelei says Pump ‘N Pak was a great business opportunity. She and husband Dale (Simons’ Outdoor Sports) have two grown children, both of whom are in the National Guard. Michael is carpen-ter, and Anna is a photographer. It’s a busy life, but Lorelei says she�thrives on it, and the�Pump ‘N Pak�employees are always happy to welcome visitors to the area. �

Simons’ Outdoor Sports, owned by Dale Simons, is located on the south� side of � Highway 14 in St.

Lawrence, on the east side of town. If you’re looking for fi rearms and equip-ment, Simons has a full inventory.

“The focus is on fi rearms, ammo and accessories for guns,” Dale explained. “I have rifl es, shotguns, handguns, black powder guns, a good selection of am-munition and accessories for guns.” This includes high-powered deer ri-fl es as well as shotguns for small game. Dale says people buy handguns for per-sonal protection, but also for sport.

Dale grew up in the area, and was al-ways involved in the hunting seasons. His interest just kept growing. “I had an uncle who had a federal fi rearms li-cense. When he decided not to renew his license, I applied, and got it”

Application must be made through BATFE. “It includes being�fi ngerprinted and having a background check done, and paying the license fee,” Dale says. The license must be renewed every three years.�

Dale�sold fi rearms on a part-time ba-sis for 19 years. He went full-time, with the store in the summer of 2007. As word got around, his customer base has expanded, and Dale says he has several customers from areas east of Miller.�

“I’m� always glad to see the hunters come, and�this is a busy time of year,” Dale says. An avid hunter himself, he says he “makes time” to get in the fi eld a while the fi rst couple of weekends, when friends and relatives come to the area for hunting.�

“It sounds like we have a good pheasant population this year, although there’s not as much CRP acreage,” Dale says. “We might have to work a little harder to get them, but�I think the num-bers are there.”�

He welcomes having hunters�stop by the store, not only to purchase guns, but also to chat a bit.�

The store is open� from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. During the fall, he will also be open from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The phone number is 853-3430. �

Look no further for outdoor needs

Dale Simons, ownerDale Simons, owner

208 N. Maple St. 605-853-3430 St. Lawrence, SD

• Rifles

• Shotguns

• Handguns

• Hunting and Shooting Accessories

• Reloading Equipment and Components

Simons Outdoor SportsSimons Outdoor Sports

Welcome Hunters!Look no further–we have what it takes to meet your outdoor sporting needs!

•

•

Open9 to 6

Monday-Friday9 to noon

on Saturdays


��

�� !"#$%��

�� &��'(��)��*��+��,��-�.� ��-��/��"�0��1��

�� .��(��-��-��,��"�� 2�-��)��

�� 3��(��1�"��,�#��

�� (��(��-�/��-��,��/��-�4��-�

�� 5��/��-��,��/��6��7�%��-��4��*��

�� '��*��-�

�� 8��(��)��%��

�� 9��(��-�/��-��,��/��:��

�� -�/��-��,��/��:��

�� ,;�&�<��-��-��$-��-�=��

�� &��(��-�/��-��,��"� ,>�"�:�"�

�� .��(��/��$��

�� 3��(��#��-��-�

�� (��-��<��-�?��&��.��6&@� ��,-��-�<�-�� ,��-�=��<��-��

/��?��:��/��?��:��3��$--�� -��"��3��$--�� -��"��

��

�� !"�� ##�$�%&'�()�*(*'+),��

Not quite roughin’ itHighplains Pheasant Hunting off ers all the comforts of home

Accommodations at Highplains Pheas-ant Hunting are comfortable, to say the least, with spacious sleeping areas, leather chairs and couches, state of the art cook-ing facilities and plenty of room to kick back after a day of hunting.

Highplains consists of 1,200 acres, and is part of Cannon River Ranches, a 20,000-acre ranch located 18 miles south of Miller on Highway 45.

Highplains Pheasant Hunting, now in its second year of operation, operates as a hunting preserve from September 1 to March 31, but also provides services dur-ing the regular pheasant season (October 20, 2012-January 6, 2013).

The ranch and hunting preserve is

owned by Lawrence Coss, and Dale and LeAnn Suhn are the managers.

Dale Suhn says the hunting lodge sleeps 15, and an additional house sleeps six more. Groups of 12 to 15 have exclu-sive use of the facilities.

“We provide everything but food,” Suhn commented. “There is a fully-equipped kitchen. There is a place for hunters to clean their birds, and then package and freeze them at the lodge until they are ready to leave. We provide fi eld guides, a kennel for the dogs…a good place to get away.”

Suhn said the idea for a hunting pre-serve “sort of evolved.” He said as the fa-cilities were improved and expanded, it seemed a hunting preserve would be a good fi t. “The area is sort of isolated, and it provides a great place to get together and enjoy hunting for three or four days.”

Suhn urges hunters to contact them by calling 605-852-2306 or 605-870-1135. For more information, go to www.highplains-pheasants.com.

Factors to consider when selecting a hunting vehicleThinking of buying a

hunting vehicle this year? Michael Jacobs, region-al manager with Club Car and an avid hunter, tells you how to make the right choice and prevent buyer’s remorse.

“Finding the vehicle that works for you de-pends on your style of hunting and living,” Ja-cobs says. “To uncov-er that, ask yourself the following six questions. Then, go one step high-er than you think you’ll need. That gives you fl ex-ibility and helps you avoid the regret that comes after getting stuck miles away from your truck or be-ing unable to access good hunting sites.”

1. � How Will You Use the Vehicle? “Most peo-ple use their vehicles for more than hunting,” says Jacobs. Do you plan to cruise the beach? Do chores around your land? Go trail riding? “Knowing this up front will help you get more miles for your dollar.”

You’ll also need to think about where you’ll be hunting. If you plan to park your vehicle on the side of the road and walk to the hunting site, a pick-up or Jeep may be right for you. “But if you want to drive into the woods, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility transportation vehi-cle (UTV) will be a better option,” Jacobs says.

ATVs vs. UTVs: What’s the Difference? If you’re looking for a fast, nim-ble, less expensive vehicle, consider an ATV. Original-ly designed for trail rid-ing, these lightweight gas-oline-powered recreational vehicles are easy to trail-er and hide. They feature a motorcycle-style seat and handlebars with a throttle and brake lever.

On the downside, ATVs are designed for one rider and they don’t have car-

go beds. They can com-fortably carry only a guy and his gun. “ATVs are not good work vehicles, and there are no cabs for safety or weather protection,” Ja-cobs says.

UTVs, on the other hand, are a cross between a pickup and an ATV. De-signed specifi cally for off-road use, they are great for hunting, work and neigh-borhood transportation.�

“These multi-purpose vehicles drive like automo-biles and have cargo beds, but they have smaller wheel bases than trucks, so they can weave in and out of trees and navigate narrow paths,” says Ja-cobs.

Like ATVs, UTVs are easy to trailer and hide. Many come with seat belts and roll over protection systems. And they’re avail-able in a range of models. But UTVs are a bit more expensive than ATVs, and they’re not quite as nim-ble.

2.� How Many Passen-gers Do You Want to Car-ry?� If you want to hunt with family and friends, think ahead and select a vehicle large enough to accommodate your party. That may not be a pickup or ATV.

3. Gas, Electric or Die-sel? People often think they need to buy a gas or diesel-powered vehi-cle to get a longer range, but that’s not true. “Elec-tric vehicles will also give you suffi cient range for a good day’s hunting,” Ja-cobs says. “In fact, sea-soned hunters often prefer electric vehicles because they don’t create fumes and noises that frighten animals, so they help pre-serve your hunting area.”

If you buy a gasoline or diesel-powered vehi-cle, look for a big tank and long range.

4. Two- or Four-Wheel Drive? That depends on

how far off the beaten path you venture. If you mainly travel trails, a 4x2 may be fi ne.

If you’ll be crossing creeks; driving in snow, rain or mud; climbing hills; or covering rocky ter-rain, you’ll want a 4x4. “A 4x4 will get you into prime hunting areas and help you avoid getting stuck in the woods,” Jacobs says. “And 4x4s come with seat belts and roll over protec-tion systems.”

Compare Four-wheel Drive Systems If you’ve got your heart set on a 4x4, Jacobs suggests you do your due diligence. “There are big differences in ease of use and perfor-mance,” he says.

With most four-wheel drive systems, you’ll have to push the right levers, select the right gears and worry about locks. What’s more, most four-wheel drive utility vehicles re-quire you to come to a full stop — or even back up — to engage the locking dif-ferentials.

5. What About Ground Clearance and Axle Ar-ticulation? � If you want to get into extreme ter-rain, you’ll need a 4x4 UTV with excellent ground clearance and good axle articulation. “Axle articu-lation is the ability to trav-el uneven terrain while maintaining ground con-tact on all four tires and preserving traction and torque,” Jacobs says.

6. Other Consider-ations? Compare bed size and payload. These can differ considerably from model to model and man-ufacturer to manufacturer.

Look for a vehicle de-signed to accommodate the hunting accessories you want. Those might in-clude fl oor-mounted gun racks, canopy tops, wind-shields, nerf bars, brush guards, camoufl age paint, heaters, stereos and more.

Highplains Pheasant Hunting is part of Cannon River Ranches,located in central South Dakota. Highplains Pheasant Hunting

offers a wide range of habitat for your huntingpleasure. There are endless opportunities to fill your limit,

whether it is CRP, creek bottoms, tree belts, food plots or grass strips.

Lawrence Coss, owner - Dale & LeAnn Suhn, managersLocated 18 miles south of Miller, SD on Highway 45

605-852-2306 or 605-870-1135www.highplainspheasants.com

• Enjoyable atmosphere• Sleeping quarters for 20+ people• Bedding & towels provided• Kitchen & utensils• Gas grills• Bathrooms with showers

• Facility to clean birds or bird cleaning provided• Freezers available for birds• Guide & transportation to fields• Shooting clays available• Bring your dog, food, beverages and enjoy

HighplainsPheasant Hunting

Documents

2012 Hand County Hunting Guide