Fins, Feathers & Fur Club

Massachusetts Sponsored Youth Pheasant Hunt

at

Poland Brook Preserve, Conway MA

September 2009

Home

The air was crisp and the fields white with early morning frost. The dogs sat in the vehicles, anticipating the hunt to come. Seven young hunters from the Fins, Feathers and Fur Club had successfully completed a safety and gun handling course prior to this hunt. Dylan Mankowsky, Jordan Scalon, William Straford, Jonathon Crowningshield, Michael Britt, Andrew Betsold, and Jon Unaitis were the participants in this state run youth pheasant hunt. After a quick run through of gun safety from Environmental Police Officer, Dave Unaitis, the hunt was on. Each hunter was allowed two birds, and each hunter harvested two birds. The smiles on the faces of these young hunters was all that had to be said.

For those not from rural western Massachusetts, it may come as a surprise that a school club devoted to hunting and fishing actually exists. Hunting and fishing are long established skills in this area of the state. Young people often learn such skills from veteran family members. For those in the Fins, Feathers and Fur club, every person must successfully complete a gun/hunting safety course. Respect for safety and compliance with rules are strictly adheared to. Students show great maturity and demonstrate the responsiblity that comes with gun use. Students are closely supervised by experienced adults.

Students prepare to release the pheasants.

Pheasants are airborne and fly off to the fields and woods. Pheasants are stocked birds in Massachusetts.

Hunters and dogs move quietly through the brush.

With the help of a bird dog, and a good eye, a hunter is successful.. 		This hunter and experienced cocker spaniel had a great day. Pictured left to right: EPO Dave Uniatis and his son Jon, Jordon Scalon, Jon Crowingshield, Andrew Betsold.