Christmas Came Early To Our Muzzleloading Group In Caneadea

Blackpowder season is something that not a lot of deer hunters take part in. For me personally, it is probably the most exciting facet of deer hunting. I had been making plans all year long to get together with a few of my close hunting buddies to do some Blackpowder hunting.

Here in Western New York, this year's Muzzleoading season is from Dec. 10 to Dec. 18. That's why I made sure I was off from work the first four days of the season. I had really been looking forward to this time. This year, I was hunting with some true muzleloading veterans: The Beatrus family from Naples and Spencerport, NY. Brothers Bill, Bob and Tom were with us along with Bill's son Jonathon. These guys are not only Muzzleloading experts, but they are also one of the nicest families I have ever hunted with. Bill, Bob and Tom range in age from 67 to 70 and I firmly believe they have more energy than other guys half their age. I was impressed with their energy and expertise. These guys really know what they are doing and are ready to pass along their secrets and knowledge without making you feel inferior.

So how did we do? We took seven deer on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. Not too shabby! My other hunting buddies Brian Bennett and Karl Ziolek were also with us. We were hunting out of Karl's cabin in Caneadea, which we have nicjnamed "Swollen Acres". I would like to see us make this an annual tradition between us. I was able to harvest a doe yesterday, so my Christmas wish was granted. Hanging out with these guy really put me in the Christmas spirit. I feel quite Blessed to have friends like these.

If you or anyone you know would like to share your muzzleloading photos with us, you can email me at:  johnlamond@wyrk.com