Iowa Outdoors Store Presents:

Archery Madness Bracket 3D Archery Tournament
Saturday March 21st
-Limit of 64 shooters
-Archers will shoot a minimum of 40 targets
-Top 4 payout for winners bracket
-Top 4 payout for losers bracket
-Must shoot 20 target seeding round
Can be shot on Thursday(3/19), Friday(3/20) or Saturday (3/21) by 10AM
-After seeding round participants will face off in head to head competition in a bracket style format.
-Call for a line time
-Awards at approximately 5PM
-Lunch included for shooters
-Entry fee $40 before March 14th and $45 after March 14th
-Limit of 12 inch stabilizer, no range finders, no magnified scopes or clarifiers
-Side bar and binoculars allowed

Hosted in our 35 yard, 15 lane brand new indoor archery range.

Call: 515-955-4868 for info

Sponsored by: Kemna Motors and A-M Outdoors

Kramer's 2015 Spring Firearms Auction
Sat. March 28th @ 9AM
Sale Preview: Friday March 27th 2-7 PM
Location: Kramer Auction Gallery Prairie du Chien, WI 53821

400+ Great Estate Firearms! Online Catalog @ www.proxibid.com/kramer

Wow, NIB Ruger, Remington, Winchester, SAKO, Weatherby, Browning in Big Game & Safari Calibers. Benelli, Browning Shotguns, Colt Pythons & Rare BOA, NIB SIGs, Glock, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Freedom Arms, T/C Contenders in almost every Caliber! Plus Military Arms, Nazi Occupation Pistols, Fine Collection of 1911 style 45 pistols, Garand’s Carbines.

Approx. 1000 new Traps, +Antique Traps & Trapping Memorabilia, New Factory Ammo, Knives, Bayonets, Reloading supplies & much more!

Kramer Auction (608) 326-8108 www.kramersales.com

Annual Sportsman Auction
Saturday, March 28, 2015 -doors open at 7:30am
Auction starts 9:00 am
Buchanan County Fairgrounds Independence, IA

Taking consignments now for guns, ammunition, hunting equipment, fishing equipment, boats, ATVs, prints, Indian artifacts, or anything else outdoorsman related. Consign early to be included in national advertising Sold into 25 states last sale. Always a great Sale!

Online bidding and in house bidding. For list of items go to www.donnellyauction. com

For more information contact:

Donnelly Auctioneering and Appraisal 319.334.6122

Antler Shed Hunting With Your Dog
By Chris Wise

We are little over a month away from one of Iowa's greatest hunting seasons. Yes it's antler shed hunting! Outside of trail cameras, which many hunters don't leave up year around, there's no better or earlier way to get an idea of the caliber of bucks that made it through the previous season. In this way I think it's actually important and strategic to go hunt for sheds.

I remember the first sheds I ever found. I was on my ATV checking fences and honestly hoping to see a coyote dumb enough to stand still for a few seconds. I had just come out the woods into a secluded field in the northern most section of my property and I look over to see a very nice matched set of antlers laying not 10 feet from each other. I couldn't believe my luck. After thanking the very generous deer for having lost his rack in such a convenient manner I proceeded to the nearest Casey's store to purchase a lottery ticket.

Despite being a fun treasure hunt of sorts, I should point out that there's some money to be had for the resourceful shed hunter. At the time of this writing the lowest bid I could find on EBay for a matched set of sheds was $150.00! Depending on the size, color, and overall look of your sheds, they could fetch upwards of $1300.00! Easily more for a very unique set. This is no joke. Companies and individuals that design rustic furniture are some of the first to bid on deer antlers. Knife makers too. There is a very real and active market for this.

The thing I'm most interested in when it comes to this hobby is training my dog to find antlers for me. Dogs clearly cover ground faster than humans do. Take advantage of your hound's sensitive nose to discover more sheds than you ever have! Tom Dokkin of Oakridge Kennels in Northfield, MN. is at the forefront of this sport. Tom has given talks and demonstrations at some of the nations largest sportsman conventions and continues to offer shed dog training out of his home facility. Tom says, “Anyone can do this. This isn’t just for guys. Women and children are involved as well and it’s a great family activity."

I was privileged to be able to speak with Mr. Dokkin recently and ask him a few questions about the sport of shed hunting with man’s best friend. Here’s what he had to say.

Me: Tom, what type or personality of dog is best for shed hunting?
Tom: Retrievers do this for a living, but honestly any dog that seems interested can be great. People think training a dog to find antlers is a daunting task, but it’s just not that difficult. If you are starting from scratch and are just purchasing a dog, then I recommend a retrieving breed.

Me: What are some basic shed dog training tips or techniques?
Tom: You need a dog that has some basic obedience training. This is foundational. You must have control over your dog. The dog needs to have a strong desire to search and retrieve. You could start by getting an antler and playing fetch.
A lot of people already own a trained bird dog and it can be used to find sheds too. Just remember to give the antler a name (command) that is very different from your bird dog commands. For example you could say, “Find the bone."

Me: What is the fastest way to ruin a dog’s interest in finding antlers?
Tom: To do it too much. Don’t overwork the dog. Keep it upbeat and fun. It’s very important to quit at the point where the dog seems to be enjoying it the most. This way, every time you train the dog, it will be eager to please and interested.

Me: What are the costs involved in training a dog to find antlers?
Tom: Around $30.00. All you need are an antler, some training scent, and a DVD or book to show you how. The equipment is inexpensive.

Me: Where can folks go to find more information about you and shed hunting with dogs?
Tom: The best place is probably my website www.sheddogtrainer.com. You can find products, services, tips, events, the blog, and a link to our Facebook page there.

Tom is featured in a book by Jerry Thoms.(Training your dog to hunt for shed deer antlers) Here are some tips that I found useful:
• Use a foam rubber antler or a real one with the tips rounded to start with. If your puppy gets hurt by the real thing, it could negatively impact your dog's desire for antler bones.
• Simply play fetch with the antler. Toss the bone a short distance within eyesight so it’s simple for your dog to find.
• Hide the antler under a blanket, pillow, or around a corner. Make the dog have to search a little bit.
• Transitioning to outdoors - again toss the antler a short distance, then a long distance. Then begin hiding it under bushes but still in sight. Randomly vary the hide locations.
• Wash your training antler or use a scent remover, and wear rubber gloves. You don’t want your dog always finding the antler based on the scent of your hands.
• Always take some sheds of your own when you go out to train your dog in the field. This way the dog always succeeds and will remain interested in the activity. Tie some bright colored ribbon around the antler so you can find it again.

Obviously there is a bit more to this than simply playing fetch with an antler, so I would encourage you to visit Tom’s website and consider ordering a dvd or book. The training book is an easy read and very informative. Tom outlines a common sense step-by-step approach to get your dog retrieving antlers in no time. A good number of interesting videos can be found on YouTube as well. Search for Tom Dokken or shed dog training.

I have only just begun training my dog Disco to find and retrieve antlers, but I’m hopeful she stays interested. She loves it so far. I keep her antler on the mantle of my fireplace and most days she can be found sitting below, staring longingly at it - Kind of like I do when I go to the bow or gun shop.

Like many of you I enjoy the outdoors, and I enjoy them more when my dog is with me. What better way to keep your dog sharp and active off-season than to train it to hunt for sheds? You are going to be out in the woods anyway, it’s what you do. More than that it’s who you are. Now get out there and enjoy!

Sale Preview: Friday January 23rd, 2pm-7pm

Sale Date:
Saturday, January 24th
9am

Location:
Kramer Auction Gallery
203 E. Blackhawk Ave.
Prairie du Chien, WI 53821

Winchesters, Advanced Air Rifles, Engraved Arms, US & German WWI Military Arms, Ammo & More!

Full Catalog w/ photos & online bidding options at www.proxibid.com/kramer

Kramer Auction
608-326-8108
www.kramersales.com

Large Gun - Ammo- Reloading
Knives - Related
AUCTION

Sunday, January 4, 2014 • 11 A.M.

North Country Community Center
18765 Hwy. 69, Lawson, Missouri 64062
From the South: From Kansas City, MO. I-35 North to Highway 69 (Excelsior Springs, Missouri exit), North on 69 to 4-1/2 miles north of Excelsior Springs. From the North: From Cameron, Mo. I-35 South to Highway 116, East to Highway 69, South to auction. Lawson is approximately 25 miles northeast of Kansas City, Mo. or South of Des Moines, Iowa, approximately 170 miles. Watch for signs.

Very large lot of Rifles, Shotguns, Revolvers and Handguns. Very large selection of ammo, reloading equipment and supplies. Large selection of knives (mostly Remington, Case, S&W and others), and many more related items. Don’t miss the fantastic auction.

Terms & Conditions: Cash, Check, Visa, MasterCard or Discover. Everything will be sold as is. 10% Buyer's Premium. No Sales Tax will be charged. We will comply with all Federal and State regulations. Dealers must bring a copy of FFL license. A $10 transfer and handling fee will be charged per gun, except BB and pellet guns.

Auctioneer's Note: Please plan to attend this outstanding auction in our climate-controlled, smoke-free auction gallery with plenty of seating and good food. Online bidding available at: https://www.proxibid.com/asp/AuctionsByCompany.asp?ahid=989

Gary Ryther Auctioneeers, Inc
816-580-4204
http://www.grytherauctioneers.com/

FREE WINTER FISHING CLASSES AT PALO OUTDOORS
Space is limited, sign up NOW!
Winter Fishing Academy – Fishing 101 – At Palo Outdoors 1204 1st St. Palo Iowa 52324
January 10 and 17 – Saturdays – 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Beginners are welcome to join us at each of these sessions where we will progressively learn about the basics of fishing. What line works well, how do you tie knots, how do you choose the right hooks, bobbers, sinkers and lures to make your fishing experience more productive. What fishing rods are best for beginners and why? Join Naturalist Chuck Ungs as we tease out the things you should know to become a successful angler. Free. Open to all ages but children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Pre-register to save a seat by calling 319-892-6485. For more information or to view other possible additions to the series, check the Linn County Conservation Department webpage at http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Linn/Events.aspx or call Palo Outdoors 319-851-5290

Winter Fishing Academy – Fishing 201- At Palo Outdoors
January 14 – Wednesday – 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Intermediate fishing skills will be covered concerning local fish and local waters. Local bass tournament angler Billy Meier will talk about Lake Macbride bass and crappie. Do-it Molds Walleye Pro Steve Miller will cover slow death rigging to entice fish to bite! Learn how to use this method to catch more fish. Captain Dave Nichols will cover selecting rods & reels for crankbaits, jigging & rigging. Free. Open to all ages but children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Pre-register to save a seat by calling 319-892-6485. For more information or to view other possible additions to the series, check the Linn County Conservation Department webpage at http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Linn/Events.aspx or call Palo Outdoors 319-851-5290

Winter Fishing Academy – Fishing 301 – At Palo Outdoors
January 21- Wednesday – 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Advanced Fishing skills will be covered by bass tournament angler Billy Meier speaking to the techniques and methods that are winning bass tournaments in the Midwest. NWT Touring Pro Gary Speicher will cover open water trolling tricks for walleye. Captain Dave Nichols will cover Advanced Equipment Selection for specialty trolling presentations with boards & lead core. Free. Open to all ages but children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Pre-register to save a seat by calling 319-892-6485. For more information or to view other possible additions to the series, check the Linn County Conservation Department webpage at http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Linn/Events.aspx or call Palo Outdoors 319-851-5290

Deadline to sign up is Dec. 8!

Snowshoe Building Class series
This winter Linn County Conservation will again offer the opportunity to build a pair of traditional snowshoes. Conservation Education Specialist Chuck Ungs will guide participants through the snowshoe-building process at Wickiup Hill Outdoor Learning Center, 10260 Morris Hills Road, Toddville IA - just outside of Cedar Rapids. Those who have taken the class in the past have been very pleased with the finished shoes and have enjoyed the class. These sets would make a unique gift, functional tools or can be used as a grand decoration.

Participants should plan to attend the evening sessions on Thursday, December 11, 18 and Saturday the 20th. These evening classes will run from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Wickiup Hill Learning Center near Toddville. With some time invested at home, kits can be completed around New Year’s. Additional evenings will be needed to varnish the shoes in the evenings at the Conservation Department shop located at 1890 County Home Road in the week following construction, between the Holidays. For best results, two or three of these evenings will be required to varnish the shoes properly.

Participants must pre-register and pay by December 8, 2014, so we can order kits. The $195 class fee includes the cost of a snowshoe kit, a binding set and varnish for each participant. To pre-register or for more details and options, call 319-892-6485. Attendance at all three lacing sessions is highly recommended. Kit building typically requires the manual dexterity of someone high school age or older. Class size is limited to 15.

For Immediate Release:

New Titanium Tip Stick from Beaver Dam first of its kind!

Includes Built-In titanium “Spring Bobber”

Beaver Dam is known for the best tip up on the planet so it’s no surprise that they enter the ice rod and combo market with guns blazing and tips glowing. The new Titanium Tip Stick is the first rod that comes standard with a built-in, retractable, no memory, titanium spring bobber so anglers can switch from jigging Kastmaster’s for walleyes with the tip recessed, to finessing panfish with the tip extended.

The rod is made of High Modulus carbon fiber and comes with a fitted cork reel seat with built-in rattles that transmit fish-attracting vibrations below the ice. Why go to the fish when you can draw them into to you!

-Three Rods in One!
1- Ultra-light jigging for panfish
2- Retract spring bobber for gamefish
3- Deadsticking

-Available in 23” UL. 26” ML, and 29” M actions
-Available in a combo that includes custom ice-specific spinning reel with three ball-bearings, aluminum spool, size 300.

Hard & Soft Fishing has roots dating back to 1922, when their first brand, Uncle Josh, began manufacturing in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. They have grown to represent nearly every tackle category on the market for both ice and open-water fishing. From the Pacific to the Atlantic and all the lakes and rivers in-between, they produce bait and tackle that has been helping anglers catch more fish for decades. Employees don’t simply produce tackle, the use it on the weekends.

www.unclejosh.com

contact: ddurbin@bastdurbin.com or jbast@bastdurbin.com

Sept. 20, 2014 - Saturday – Tri-state Rod Builders Workshop
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Wickiup Hill Outdoor Learning Center
10260 Morris Hills Road
Toddville, Iowa 52341

I apologize for any cross posting – want to get the word out! Please pass onto others as you can!

Come and learn about rod building with many masters of the art form from throughout the Midwest at a beautiful Nature Center outside of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We are arranging a variety of topics, demonstrations and exhibitors. Current presenters include Mark Blabaum, Sam Fox, Kyle Robinson, Andy Wolfram, a session on how to photograph your creations effectively by the past President of the Linn Area Photo Club – Bob Lancaster, and others are in the works. The meeting is free to anyone interested in rod building from beginners to professionals and all should leave with new thoughts and ideas on how to build better fishing rods. We will take a good will donation to cover food expenses at lunch. We will be drawing for a limited number of door prizes at the end of the day. Current sponsors of the event and door prizes include Batson Enterprises, Bingham Enterprises, Linn County Conservation Department, Midwest Rod & Reel, MudHole.com, Rodguild, Archies Handles, and possibly others that are yet to commit. We will have some complete kits, some blanks and other items you would love to carry home!

Topics we intend to cover this year include making dragon scales, shrink wrap grips, photographing your creations, Rod Building for Business or Pleasure?, Balancing form with function, Component fit and finish for a professional look and much more.

Part of the program this year may be a show and tell session with the rods folks have brought in to display their craft. We also will have a limited time at the end of the day for a little swap meet so bring in anything related to building fishing rods for a bit of buy, sell or trade.

Bill Pulk from Midwest Rod and Reel will be present and will offer a 10% discount on any orders placed with him through Sept. 13 with the merchandise available at the event – plus you will avoid the shipping charges. He offers Batson Enterprises components and blanks, if you wish to see his website look at his website here: http://www.midwestrodandreel.com/ If you want to just take a look at some components or shake some blanks you will be able to do that at the show as well. I call this a win,win,win.

For more information or to RSVP so we can plan an appropriate amount of food please contact Chuck at (319) 892-6485 or at Chuck.Ungs@LinnCounty.org There will be time during the day to network with other builders – what a great way to share your craft!

For those who have built custom rods before - please bring a few along to display your work, we’ll have racks set up to display all the works of art - it is always a learning experience to see what other folks have designed. During the workshop the last several years we’ve had visitors here from as many as 6 or 7 states. Hope to see you here.

For location you can click on this link for either a satellite view or a map: https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=217452777252840541028.0004bee7249aea224c3e2&msa=0&ll=42.082697%2C-91.764486&spn=0.001439%2C0.002401