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Confessions of a Hunter – Grass Demons
By Andy Anderson
Every year they lurk in the grass, lying in wait for their next victim. You don’t know they are there; they don’t let you know they are invading your body until it’s too late. Chiggers are little skin demons that bring pain and discomfort for days and make you look like you have the worst case of the chicken pox or some plague.
Hunting during the summer can be challenging to say the least. Most of the time a night time excursion is the best bet; it’s just too hot for day time activities. Chiggers, on the other hand, do not care if it’s day light or dark.
A friend of mine came down from north of South Dakota, and wanted to do some pig hunting. Jim is an ambitious man, loves the outdoors and is not afraid of much. He had never been pig hunting and was excited to get out in the woods.
Of course, the heat was unbearable for him in August, but this was the only time he could get away. We spent most of the day resting in the air conditioning, discussing the hunt and methods we were going to employ. We went over gear and prepared snacks and drinks.
Just before dark we headed out the back door. It was still 90 plus degrees and while I really didn’t pay much attention, Jim was wearing shorts. I suggested he might want to wear pants; he insisted he would be fine. He had hunted in shorts in Africa and never had an issue. I told him this was not Africa: you are in Texas, and pants are highly advised. He shook it off and insisted we get after those pigs.
I set him up in a blind over a feeder and near water, a perfect spot with a lot of activity. I headed out to the other side of the ranch and sat in the Ranger overlooking a coastal field near a creek bottom.
As the sun slowly faded into twilight, the mosquitoes began to emerge and swarm my face; I knew if I was having issues, Jim had to be as well. I had a thermocell and couldn’t remember if Jim had anything, but he said he was fine so I turned the thermocell on and instantly was relived of the flying vermin. About that time a sow and a few piglets emerged from the tree line working their way to the middle of the field. I sat waiting for them to close the distance and better shot opportunity.
After about 10 minutes, the sow was within about 50 yards, an easy shot for me with my trusty 243. I lowered the cross hairs down, just behind the left ear. Boom!
To read more pick up a copy of the November 2018 NTFR issue. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
By Emily Gleason
The outdoor, hunting, and fishing industries have long been perceived traditionally as a male-dominated realm. However, as societal norms shift, the experiences of women in these industries have been increasingly coming to the forefront. Being a woman in the outdoor industry today is a complex blend of passion, perseverance, and community, marked by both challenges and triumphs.
Women who hunt or engage in outdoor activities frequently find themselves confronting preconceived notions about their capabilities and interests. Many of us have experienced skepticism or outright disbelief when we express our enthusiasm for hunting or other outdoor activities.
Despite these stereotypes, women are increasingly challenging and redefining what it means to be involved in these activities. Female hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are not only participating but excelling in such skills. They contribute unique perspectives and insights to the hunting community, showcasing that passion for the outdoors knows no gender.
To read more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By Norman Winter
It’s easy for us to take for granted the multiple forbs that are growing throughout our North Texas and Oklahoma grazing lands. They play an important part in the health of our soils and of our livestock, and we should be aware of how they fit in our grazing environment.
Winecup is one of the forbs that many of us can recognize. There are both annual and perennial species, and of significant numbers in our area is Trailing winecup, which is a perennial.
To learn more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By Hannah Claxton | Editor
The North Texas Fair and Rodeo, held annually in Denton, Texas, has a rich history that dates back to 1928. Originally conceived as a small agricultural fair, it was organized to showcase the region’s farming and ranching heritage while promoting local businesses and community engagement.
The fair quickly gained popularity, and by 1958, it incorporated a rodeo, which became a central feature of the event. The rodeo added an exciting element to the fair, drawing competitors and spectators from across the region to witness events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Over the years, the fair grew in size and scope, expanding to include live entertainment, carnival rides, livestock shows, and various exhibitions celebrating North Texas culture.
Today, the North Texas Fair and Rodeo has become one of the largest and most anticipated events in the region, attracting thousands of visitors each August. It remains true to its roots, continuing to celebrate the region’s agricultural and ranching heritage while incorporating modern elements such as concerts, arts and crafts, and food vendors.
The rodeo, which is now a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association sanctioned event, draws top-tier competitors from across the state- both in the arena and for the accompanying rodeo queen contest.
To learn more about Miss North Texas Fair & Rodeo, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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