I got a late start on opening day for the 2009 turkey season in NJ. This year my hunting was limited due to a new job and the extended travel that is required. I didn't decide to hunt turkey until the weekend before opening day. After all I was already at the Garden State Bow and Reel for my trout stamp and bait so I figured I'd pick up a Week A for some turkey hunting.

I had my spot all picked out so I was sure there would be some birds. It was a piece of private property that I thought I'd have all to myself. I was in no rush because it was an easy access spot. I arrived around 5:50AM to the chorus of a number of gobblers already busting out calls and I hurried to get down to "my spot". As I moved down the embankment towards where I planned to put out my deke and do some enticing calls, I heard someone say "YO!" to my left. I peeked around some trees and saw a decoy spread about 50 yards away. I had no idea anyone was going to be hunting here. Since the birds were going crazy and I didn't want to miss an opportunity, I backed up and gave way to the other hunter. I sat down in front of a huge tree and placed my gun on the ground. I watched as the other hunter called and pulled the birds towards him and to my left.

One long beard flew down in front of me and to my left. He then walked up towards me and passed in front of me at 5 yards and walked up the ridge behind me. Then another two towards the decoys, then another two and another two towards my right. One bird then walked past me on my left and up the same ridge. I never moved. I watched the other bird to my left sneak towards the decoys while also keeping an eye on the other 4 long beards to my right.

As I waited for the shot from the hunter, I intently watched two nice long beards heading straight for me. All of a sudden, I heard the thwack of an arrow hitting the bird towards my left, one down. I finally moved and picked up my shotgun and took aim at one of the two in front of me and nailed the larger of the two.

We both got up and introduced ourselves as friends of the owner. It was a great morning and it was only 6:45AM. I look forward to keeping in contact with a new hunting partner. I took my bird back to the truck and went to tag it in. All done plus I got to work by 8:30AM.

Best regards,

Pete Graziano

Northern Region VP

Safety and Education Chairman

United Bowhunters of NJ

973-951-1189