Opinion

Scoped Muzzleloaders, CWD, & Savage Model 99 Rifles In South Dakota, one is not permitted to use a scoped muzzleloader rifle for big game hunting. While most states permit a scope on muzzleloaders, that doesn’t necessarily make it right.

In the last couple years, I have developed a renewed awe and appreciation of our scientists around the world who work for entire careers to advance science and medicine in their laboratories and beyond. One such scientist is Dr. Barry Marshall.

In South Dakota, one is not permitted to use a scoped muzzleloader rifle for big game hunting. While most states permit a scope on muzzleloaders, that doesn’t necessarily make it right. SDG-F&P’s rationale is that a muzzleloader hunt should be a primitive experience.

When stopped on the street, folks often ask, “Wiltz, what’s next?” Other than pheasants, and perhaps waterfowl and grouse, Mike Hall and I are looking at a November elk hunt in Wyoming. Though I’m looking forward to the Wyoming hunt, I have some apprehensions.

At last spring’s Mitchell Gun Show, I sold six guns that were near and dear to me. My only consolation was the readily apparent pleasure they would bring to their new owners. I made a major mistake when I sold my Mec Size-Master 12 gauge shotgun shell reloader as I acted too quickly.

Dear Editor: If you read the legal notice of the Bon Homme Commission meeting on 8-17 it was reported that Ron and Janet Wagner made a proposal to convert unused rail line in Bon Homme and Charles Mix County into the core of a regional multipurpose recreational trail.

Years ago I read an article referring to our Black Hills as a poor man’s mountain hunt. While the quarry isn’t mountain goats or sheep, it doesn’t cost a minimum $10,000 for goats or $25,000 to $50,000 for sheep. Deer can be just as challenging. It’s what you make of it.

Dear Editor: If you read the legal notice of the Bon Homme Commission meeting on 8-17 it was reported that Ron and Janet Wagner made a proposal to convert unused rail line in Bon Homme and Charles Mix County into the core of a regional multipurpose recreational trail.

Today’s column might be the most comprehensive ever written on two-barreled shoguns. A good Mitchell, SD friend likes to tease me about my over & under shotgun. As I’ve never seen him miss a shot with his autoloader, there’s not much I can say other than it’s the man, not the gun.

In recent columns I have touched on the subject of cellular trail cameras and “fair chase” with regard to deer hunting.