On the grouse woods vs. pheasant fields discussion I would echo the comment that hunting both has helped me. Plus here in MN we get an extra month for grouse (opens sept vs. oct). I tend to hunt grouse Sept through early Nov and transition to pheasants once Deer season starts Nov - Dec...
I bought a grinder as well to use with shot up breasts, thighs, etc. I would love to try the casings for those cheddar jalapenos ones. I know my grinder came with the casing attachment, any recco's for a novice who might try this recipe?
Racoons in fields/cattails and porcupines in the grouse woods. We've been lucky to back out before a fight or a face full of quills. Those are the few times I've immediately switched from vibrate to shock on the collar and seems to have driven the point home. Those porcupines get your heart...
I made it out 29 days chasing phezzys (MN/SD) and another 18 chasing grouse/woodcock (MN/WI). Avg ~ 2.5 to 3 hours per day and 5 miles per day. October was most productive for Grouse, December was most productive for Phezzys. 99% public.
Any suggestions for someone looking to buy a smoker? I have guys at work who are part of the Traeger army but those seem more $$ than an nice gun. Any suggestions in a more reasonable price range?