Bird Dogs, Big Bucks, And Breaking New Ground. Navigating Saskatchewan`s Landscape
Manage episode 470755548 series 3554843
When a lifelong hunter from New Brunswick relocates to Saskatchewan, the learning curve becomes a fascinating journey through Canada's diverse hunting landscapes. Dave shares his nine-year adventure adapting to prairie hunting while bringing along his east coast hunting ethic and determination.
Saskatchewan's trophy whitetail reputation comes with controversy, as we explore the lottery system that gives residents preferential access while limiting opportunities for other Canadian hunters. The sponsorship system for family members offers improved odds but still no guarantees, creating frustration for hunters wanting to experience the province's legendary deer hunting without hiring outfitters.
The conversation takes a serious turn discussing Chronic Wasting Disease management across provincial borders. With CWD now detected in 59 of Saskatchewan's 83 wildlife management zones, hunters face new regulations and ethical questions about testing, transportation, and consumption of harvested animals. We compare different provincial approaches to containing this 100% fatal deer disease and the role hunters play in management efforts.
Dave's enthusiasm peaks when sharing his expertise training German Shorthaired Pointers for pheasant hunting. From the natural instincts of backing another dog's point to the remarkable ability to track injured birds through dense cattails, his stories highlight the special partnership between hunters and their dogs. His detailed descriptions of pheasant behavior – including the surprising fact that they can run faster than they fly – provide valuable insights for anyone interested in pursuing these challenging gamebirds.
Whether discussing the prairie moose that feed in canola fields or the limitations of wildlife management funding, this conversation spans the breadth of Canadian hunting experiences with authenticity and practical knowledge. Dave's journey reminds us that adapting to new hunting environments requires both respect for traditional skills and openness to learning new approaches.
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Chapters
1. Bird Dogs, Big Bucks, And Breaking New Ground. Navigating Saskatchewan`s Landscape (00:00:00)
2. Episode Introduction (00:00:11)
3. From New Brunswick to Saskatchewan (00:02:14)
4. Canadian Hunting License Controversy (00:08:55)
5. Chronic Wasting Disease Discussion (00:17:08)
6. Bird Dogs and Pheasant Hunting (00:26:33)
7. Moose Hunting Differences (00:43:15)
8. Wildlife Population and Management (00:57:36)
9. Episode Closing (01:03:25)
64 episodes