At this year’s Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT) in Las Vegas, outdoor writer Anne Vinnola, a.k.a. “Annie got her Gun“, had an opportunity to sit down and chat with presidential hopeful, Herman Cain, and “Joe the Plumber”, Joe Wurzelbacher.

Many things were discussed and among those was the issue of gun control. When asked about his thoughts on gun control, Mr. Cain responded, “If a bill comes across my desk as president, that hinders American’s right to bear arms, I would veto it in a second.”

You can read the entire article by visiting Anne’s website at this link.

Tom Remington

Fellow Skinny Moose Media blogger Anne Vinnola, Annie Got Her Gun, interviews Angie Haas-Tennison, soon to be crowned the 2011 Primal Adventures/Prois Hunting Extreme Huntress. Crowning will take place at the 2011 SHOT Show in Las Vegas later this month.

Tom Remington

*Editor’s Note* I am extremely disappointed that Maine Gubernatorial candidates Libby Mitchell and Paul LePage did not see fit to respond to my questions. I requested an Oct. 1 deadline, which seemed agreeable to all and have waited an additional two weeks with follow-up reminders. I believe it only fair for the other candidates to publish their responses.

Below are the answers to questions I posed to the five candidates for Maine’s governor. I will post Question 1, followed by the candidates answers (candidates’ responses will be in alphabetical order). Questions 2 and 3 will follow in the same format. I will offer no commentary at this time.

I want to publicly thank each of the candidates and their staff for taking the time from extremely busy schedules to answer questions I hope will help voters decide who to elect on November 2, 2010.

I would also like to thank those who assisted me in drafting these questions.

Question 1: This question is as much about how best to fund the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) as it is about how MDIFW should be managed.

* The Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine (SAM) is proposing a percentage of general taxation be used for additional funding.
* I have advocated for a restructuring of MIDFW and the Department of Conservation (DOC);
o move non game interests and activities from MDIFW to DOC
o fund DOC with a larger percentage of general taxation to cover the costs.
* For clarification purposes, Maine is an eager and active participant with the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA),
o which strongly supports non consumptive wildlife management
o uses Pittman-Robertson (PR) money to fund non game wildlife programs.

Do you, as governor:

o see the MDIFW functioning more as does the AFWA, with it’s focus on the environment and non game wildlife and non game programs and funded through general taxation as well as license fees?;
o envision MDIFW functioning in a more traditional sense in managing fish and game for harvest opportunities?
+ Would you consider a restructuring?
+ Do you have another plan and vision for MDIFW?

Eliot Cutler - I envision the MDIFW functioning in the more traditional sense, although I recognize that the department’s wildlife biologists work on both game and non-game programs.

I do not believe in consolidation just for the sake of consolidation. Mergers of any departments must be carefully considered, improve service and result in real and lasting savings. I support efficiencies that can result from departments working cooperatively, and I understand that the Natural Resources Network (which includes SAM, the Maine Professional Guides Association, and the Maine Snowmobile Association, among others) developed a proposal that was able to come up with a number of mutually agreed upon cost savings.

I would prefer that the license fees not be used to provide services to the general public or non-licensees, such as general public search and rescue services provided by the warden services. I hope that we can provide general fund support to MDIFW in the future, but the reality is, with a billion dollar hole in the budget for the next biennium, general fund monies probably will not be coming to MDIFW is the near term. Anyone who says otherwise should have to account for where they will get this money or name the programs that will have to be cut back or eliminated to accomplish this shifting of funds.

Knowing that we have lost 50,000 non-resident hunters and fishermen, my vision is that we must pay stronger attention to the quality of the experience that we offer sportsmen in all areas, from customer service to the stewardship of our fisheries and wildlife habitat. That means offering better information, better service and better accountability for performance. I will appoint a MDIFW Commissioner who shares those goals.

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Paul LePage -

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Libby Mitchell -

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Shawn Moody - (In response to whether MDIFW would function as AFWA, Moody answered) No.
(Do you envision MDIFW functionally traditionally, Moody answered) Yes.
(Consider restructuring MDIFW) Yes.
(Another plan and vision) I believe SAM’s position that MDIFW should be restructured by moving non-game interests to DOC and funding DOC with a larger percentage of the general taxation has merit.
[Clarification: It is not SAM's position to restructure MDIFW by moving non-game interests to DOC. SAM is supporting funding MDIFW with a percentage of general tax revenue. As pointed out in the question, it is my position to restructure and move non-game programs out of MDIFW and into DOC or departments appropriate.]

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Kevin Scott -Under my leadership MDIFW will be the premier organization in managing fish and game for harvest population. Maine must lead the nation in becoming a premier destination for sportsman seeking to harvest wildlife in the most responsible and sustainable way possible.

I support AFWA initiatives and goals, the very nature of the work in this area is not only consistent with my vision for MDIFW, but is also necessary for the MDIFW mission to be successful. Compatible, integrated effort is key in managing wildlife for both population and harvest; they are certainly not exclusive of each other.

I would consider a reorganization that creates a clear distinction and separation – with built in integration – of the two separate missions. AFWA work, and its funding from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (better known as the Pittman Robertson Act) and MDIFW must be seen as separate areas of expertise that are integrated for maximum public benefit. This is not different than business concepts in terms of, for example, a product development team and a manufacturing team. Two very separate functions, both specialized, and respected, while working together for success.

Question 2: This question pertains to Maine’s struggling whitetail deer herd in Northern and Downeast Maine, as well as portions of the Western Mountains. I would assume your answer here will reflect your position in Question 1.

* Do you, as governor, see the State’s whitetail deer herd, specifically in those areas severely affected, worth recovering?
* Would you seek to recover the deer population to levels to provide better hunting opportunities?
o Many believe there are too many predators in Maine to allow recovery.
o The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) view coyotes and other predators as a valuable part of our ecosystem, that need protecting.
* As governor would you appoint a leader at MDIFW who believes in predator control as part of a strategy to rebuild the deer herd and manage game populations for harvest opportunities?

Eliot Cutler - It is clearly in the interest of the state to rebuild the whitetail deer population in those areas of the state mentioned in the question. Some things can be done at little or no cost to the state, such as protection of areas that provide winter cover for the deer. These areas will provide protection and food supplies to aid the deer in surviving our winters, which will increase the deer population.

I also believe that comprehensive predator control is part of the formula to bring back whitetail deer, and I will appoint a MDIFW leader who supports that position.

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Paul LePage -

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Libby Mitchell -

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Shawn Moody - (Deer herd worth saving, Moody answered:)Absolutely, Maine’s whitetail deer herd is worth recovering.
(Recover to levels to provide more opportunities, Moody answered:) Yes. Maine’s deer population is one of our state’s natural resources and must be managed as any other sustainable natural resource.
(Appoint a MDIFW leader who believes in predator control, Moody answered:) Yes. I believe rebuilding Maine’s deer herd and managing game populations is crucial to Maine’s economy. SAM needs to be involved in the MDIFW hiring process and act as a Board of Advisors for MDIFW.

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Kevin Scott -(Pertaining to the part of the question as to whether saving the deer herd is worthwhile, Mr. Scott answered) Is this a joke question? Of course I do.
(The part of the question that asks if he would recover herds to levels to provide opportunities, Mr. Scott answered) Yes, first and foremost.

Yes, without doubt I will only appoint a leader who has the ability to manage wildlife for both conservation and harvest.
In the case of the whitetail, we need to manage for harvest and addressing the predator issue is the key to this problem. Deeryards, etc are all components, but currently the predation issue is number one. “Protecting” predators means managing their population. If predator populations are allowed to grow to the point where they devastate their own prey, where are we then? A little common sense, balanced by biologist findings and sportsman’s experience “on the ground” will go along way. My vision for integration of AFWA practices and MDIFW management for harvest is the ideal long-term solution to managing our wildlife for responsible, sustainable harvest. We have the tools to ensure Maine sportsman are the envy of the world in terms of fishing, deer hunting, trapping, etc… Lets get it done.

Question 3: The Endangered Species Act is 38 years old. Some believe the Act is outdated, ineffective and has become a useful tool of environmental, as well as anti-hunting and animal rights groups.

* Please cite one instance in which you feel the Endangered Species Act has:
o benefited Maine (if any)
o harmed Maine (if any).
* As governor how strongly are you willing to fight against lawsuits that threaten Maine’s hunting, fishing and trapping heritage; a heritage that has a very strong impact on the economy?

Eliot Cutler - I believe that the Act has benefitted Maine in restoring the population of bald eagles. Not only are they our national bird and of great symbolic value, they are a key part of our ecosystem and a symbol of the health of our rivers and coastal waters.

On the other hand, I feel that the listing of the Canada lynx, an animal whose return in large part is the result of clear cutting, has created unnecessary conflict between environmentalists and landowners. Protection of the lynx would best be served not by a listing but by cooperative efforts between various stakeholders.

I recognize the importance of Maine’s hunting, fishing and trapping heritage to our economy, and as governor I will vigorously oppose efforts that threaten that heritage.

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Paul LePage -

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Libby Mitchell -

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Shawn Moody – (ESA benefited Maine, hurt Maine, Moody answered:) While it’s important to protect our endangered species, animal needs must be balanced with human needs. We need to be careful that Maine business doesn’t become an endangered species!
(Willing to fight against lawsuits, Moody answered:) Yes, we must fight lawsuits that threaten our state.

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Kevin Scott - As governor how strongly are you willing to fight against lawsuits that threaten Maine’s hunting, fishing and trapping heritage; a heritage that has a very strong impact on the economy?

With every tool available, I will fight anti-hunting, fishing, and trapping lawsuits. These law suits not only target Maine sportsman, they target Maine State workers in MDIFW. These employees need their professional abilities protected and defended, they need to be able to exercise their ability in wildlife management. I see attacks on our traditional outdoor heritage as an attack on our State employees too. Anti hunting, fishing, and trapping, in my strong opinion, is anti Maine. We can manage our wildlife for harvest, long-term sustainable practices, etc. Sportsmen want sustainable wildlife for harvest more than Anti’s understand.

Bag limits, license fees, season schedules, etc all allow for management of our precious outdoor sporting heritage. I am the only candidate that has a strong, clear commitment to Maine’s sportsman because I grew up in that tradition, I live in rural, “big game” Oxford County, and I do not have any strings attached to my campaign. My commitment is real; it is not to get votes so I can then go into office and pursuit another agenda like other candidates. Two candidates seek to protect only businesses, one seeks to perpetuate our current system, and one who wants to add more debt with a Public Power Authority which will trade and sell our energy future for personal profit of his connections in China and Washington, DC. I am free to govern in Maine’s best interest.

Photo from fOTOGLIF

Editor’s Note: I did not conduct this interview. It was sent to me by Mossy Oak as a press release.

Q: Can you give me a few general tips on how I can be more successful this spring?

A: Hunting in the spring is one of my most favorite times of the year. There’s nothing like the first “gobble” in the morning as the sun is just creeping over the mountain peeks, hearing Mr. Tom talking from the tree top. The most successful tip that I can give is to scout, scout, and scout. Find the birds, and put them to sleep. Back out of there with no noise and set up 2 hours before day break within 50 yards from where you watched them roost the night before.

Q: How much scouting should I do before the season?

A: As much as you can without pushing them out of your area. Find groups of birds in a few locations. Nothing is worse than going to your public grounds on opening morning and finding a truck already parked in your spot. The hard work before the season will pay off when the time comes and you know you have a few sets and different possibilities.

Q: Is there a best call to use?

A: I have a few favorites but if I had to only bring one call, I would choose my go-to call. For me it’s my “Penn Woods Waterproof Wizard.” It works as a locator call, but also, it has a very nice raspy sound. This call does it all and is very easy to use from beginners all the way up to the die-hard. With this call there is no need for chalk and it can be used in all weather conditions. My close second to use is my “Enticer Raspy Classic.” This call has unbelievable sounds and will purr like no other. As for mouth calls, I stay close to Primos Signature Series. It’s very easy to use and great sounding.

Q: Do I need to learn to use several different calls?

A: Need? No, a simple box call kills more birds than any other call. But, it’s always handy to pull out another call when you have a bird hung up at 50 yards and is very hesitant to come any closer. This is when your time practicing with other calls will help you seal the deal.

Q: What do you do to take care of your calls?

A: All of my mouth calls stay in a Primos call case and I use reed separators after each use. Keep your box calls chalked up and your strikers cleaned.

Q: What is a common mistake that turkey hunters make?

A: One of the biggest mistakes that we make is leaving our set too soon. Wait it out. A lot of my birds have stayed quiet the whole time. Just because they’re not responding does not mean they’re not there. Blend into your environment. Don’t wear your deer hunting camo; wear mid-light colors with lots of bright green like Mossy Oak Obsession. This pattern is the ideal pattern for the spring season. Also, don’t forget that decoy!

Q: Do you use decoys? If so, how?

A: Yes, decoys are one of the most important tools I use. It takes the turkey’s eyes off you and onto your decoy. This allows you to draw your bow or settle in for your shot. I like to set up one strutting tom and one hen in the ground. This setup has worked the best for me.

Q: What should I do if I go out and don’t hear any gobbling?

A: Try different calls, stay quiet and relax. Some of the best birds come in very quiet. These birds are smart and may have been tricked before. Stay on them and don’t give up. If you know they are there in the area, they will come.

Q: If I can hunt all day, is there a best time to hunt?

A: I still like the mornings. It’s very peaceful and there are no distractions. The worst is to be working a bird and then somebody drives by and sees birds in your field and slows down, scaring them away. Get to them early and slap a tag on him. Pattern that gun with different types of ammo. Continue to shoot that bow and practice often. Hard work will pay off. Have a safe and happy hunting season. Good Luck!

Marshall, Desert Rat, had the opportunity to interview rocker Ted Nugent the other day. Check it out!

Tom Remington

Staff at Field and Stream interviewed both presidential candidates about issues that matter to outdoor enthusiasts.

Tom Remington

This afternoon I had the opportunity to participate in a telephone conference call with Sen. John McCain. As part of his Outreach Program, bloggers/journalists are invited to listen in to comments made by the presumptive republican nominee to run for the presidency of the United States and pose questions or comments if time permits. Although this was my second invitation, this was the first time I have been able to participate due to time constraints.

Mr. McCain was running late, but once on board he took about 5 minutes to make some brief comments. He congratulated Hillary Clinton for the efforts she put into her campaign and then acknowledged that Sen. Barack Obama would be the presumptive counterpart in the race for the White House representing the democratic party.

From there Sen. McCain informed us that he has already extended an invitation to Sen. Obama to participate in 10 town hall-type debates/meetings between now and November’s general election. The first one is tentatively scheduled for June 12, 2008 at Federal Hall in New York City. McCain awaits a response to his invitation from the Obama camp.

John McCain also took the opportunity to begin what appears to be the theme for his upcoming campaign telling us that Obama’s perspective of things is skewed, he is inexperienced and cannot lead this country. He says that Obama denies that the troop surge in Iraq was effective and pointed out that in all this time, Obama has not sought any kind of briefing with Gen. Patreus.

The facilitator of the conference then instructed us to press *1 on our phone dials if we had a question or comment for the Senator. By the time I fumble with my cell phone, of which I totally despise, I got put on the “first come first served” list but didn’t get to ask a question. Maybe I’ll be faster next time.

I would say Sen. McCain fielded around six questions dealing with an array of topics, none of which were any I intended to inquire about. I was surprised in a way to listen to the questions asked and found myself asking, “Why ask that?”

Most of the questions were non confrontational, except for one that asked the Senator if he was going to change his tone with conservative voters and stop using liberal talking points in dealing with them. Needless to say that question didn’t get a lot of response.

Jim Geraghty of National Review got me chuckling.

Is it accurate that June 3, 2008, was the moment that America began providing care for the sick? And on a slightly more serious note, when your opponent goes on these rhetorical flights of fancy, how do you bring him back down to earth? How do you persuade people that this isn’t so world-changing, and that Americans did in fact care for the sick before yesterday? (emphasis is mine)

From there McCain explained that this was one of the reasons he is seeking the town hall meetings, so that both can respond to the same questions.

I was surprised at the brevity of the conference but grateful that I had a chance to participate. I need to practice with my fingers and get that *1 down pat.

For those wondering what I was going to ask the Senator, here is my question exactly as I had written it down in preparation.

Senator McCain – Thank you for taking time and addressing my question. In an email you sent to supporters yesterday, you spoke of “the right change” in comparing your ideas with those of Senator Obama. At what price does a gallon of gas at the pumps have to reach before you will reconsider your position of no drilling in the United States and offshore?

Maybe next week!

Tom Remington

John Stabley, the host of Stabley Outdoors got a chance to Interview Jeff Hajari, President of Tree Apron while attending the 2008 ATA Show.

To find out more about Tree Apron Products, visit them on the web at www.treeapron.com.

Listen to the interview now. (18min 47sec)

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I just got off the telephone with John Stabley, V.P. of Global Operations at Skinny Moose Media, who is covering the ATA trade show in Indianapolis, Indiana for us. He gives us an update about the show, some information on new products and prospects for the coming year.

Listen to our conversation now!

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Tom Remington

Ingrid Newkirk, founder of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), was the subject recently of a documentary entitled, “I am an Animal” by Matthew Galkin. Galkin’s award winning documentary he claims was to focus on the fight PETA has waged in their attempt to stop the killing of all animals.

I received an email from Josh May, Web Editor for Plum TV. He gave me the link to a video of an interview done by Plum TV of Galkin and Newkirk about the documentary. In the interview, when Newkirk was asked if PETA had to present itself as being so radical in its beliefs in hopes of “landing somewhere in the middle”, she alluded to much of the truth behind PETA’s efforts to lie or say anything in order to get people’s attention. She was quoted as saying, “We have to say something people haven’t heard before.” She went on to explain that if PETA just keeps repeating itself about the inhumane treatment of animals, nobody will pay any attention so they have to resort to more radical measures in order to get our attention. I guess this could be likened to that of a spoiled brat demanding their way or an entire host of other analogies.

Later on in the interview, Newkirk was asked if there was any compromise in finding a humane way to kill and eat an animal. This is what she said: “If you could go into a barn with an animal alone and shoot him in the head when they wasn’t expecting it and no other animals were looking, go on then if you just can’t give this up.” (meaning give up eating meat)

As I’ve said numerous times before, I could care less whether Ingrid Newkirk eats vegetables or dirt. That’s her business. What isn’t her business, is her radical, terroristic approach to force her ideals on others. If her lifestyle is so wonderful then let those who agree flock to her party and eat fake chicken wings.

Watch the video of the interview with Galkin and Newkirk.

Tom Remington