Season's done for me......

[chatterbox]

Well boys, my season ended today. Harrison and I sat in the blind watching a group of hens, when a big jake came into view.
I hit him with some soft yelps trying to entice him into gun range for Harrison.
Next thing I knew, we had 4 jakes total at 45 or so yards, and they just wouldn't come any closer. They finally broke off, and went down a green field towards the woods. I only needed 20 more yards for Harrison to have a chance to punch his tag. Sadly, it didn't work out.
I'm so sorry I let you guys down this year. I never even got close.
I have to admit I'm totally burned out. I want you guys to know I won't be doing the contest next year. I need to work on my skills a little bit more. I'm starting to think the 2 longbeards I managed to kill was more dumb luck than anything.
I wish you all a great summer, and it was an honor being a widowmaker with you all.

Chatterbox out.

[WillowRidgeCalls]

Sorry to hear we are going to loose you Mike, you've been a great team member and helped the team a lot.
Those high pressured public land birds are tough, and it doesn't help when you have a lot of guys running around in the fields your hunting. Maybe a new place to hunt might change your mind? The door is always open for ya.
Best of luck to ya chasing those feathered beast.   

[turkey slayer]

Don't let it get to ya too bad, everyone gets in slumps. Keep at em!  next year!

[GobbleNut]

Hey, Mike,....don't let a run of bad luck bring you down, buddy!  Next spring is a long way off, and your attitude and confidence will return.  Just plan on getting back in the saddle and lettin' 'er rip!  We all get thrown down and have our noses rubbed in the dirt sometimes! 

Jim       

[OLE RASPY]

Sorry to hear that Mike.Hope u have better luck next year.Hope u had a good time just being out in the woods with ya son thats all that matters really when it comes down to it.

[spurman]

Hate to hear that Mike, maby you will change your mind by next spring.

[TalksToTurkeys]

I hunted them harder than ever this year, and I didn't kill one.
I can only say that it was a tough year.
Next year I'm going to blow their heads off. 
                                             
I hope you do the same.

[Boparks]

Mike,

I think it's been tougher this year for many of us.

A big part of the fun here as a team member is the back and forth banter and comradery....Next season is a way off and the way I look at it you're not only due.... but due to hit a big bird..so with all due respect buddy...I'd recommend editing and deleting this nonsense about not being on the team next year.

There are 16 of us here and you put forth as much an effort as any...some of us enjoy the benefit of having good spots and some have more experince than others...but at the end of the day its just about enjoying the outdoors and the challenge of turkey hunting...the contest just gives us a little more drive, makes it more interesting, and gives us something to talk about.......it also allows us to get to know each other better and become  friends.......

We were within a bird of probably being in the top 3-4...and our bird average ain't bad by anyones book.

Next year some of us that killed birds might be the ones that need to be picked up...it'll be your turn next year!

[chatterbox]

Mike,

I think it's been tougher this year for many of us.

A big part of the fun here as a team member is the back and forth banter and comradery....Next season is a way off and the way I look at it you're not only due.... but due to hit a big bird..so with all due respect buddy...I'd recommend editing and deleting this nonsense about not being on the team next year.

There are 16 of us here and you put forth as much an effort as any...some of us enjoy the benefit of having good spots and some have more experince than others...but at the end of the day its just about enjoying the outdoors and the challenge of turkey hunting...the contest just gives us a little more drive, makes it more interesting, and gives us something to talk about.......it also allows us to get to know each other better and become  friends.......

We were within a bird of probably being in the top 3-4...and our bird average ain't bad by anyones book.

Next year some of us that killed birds might be the ones that need to be picked up...it'll be your turn next year!

You're right, Bobby. After getting a couple of good nights sleep, I'm feeling better. Guess you could call it just plumb feeling sorry for myself. I don't like getting skunked, especially 2 years in a row. I know there were things I coulda/ shoulda done better, and there were other things beyond my control.
My one big goal is to find some good private turkey country. I have at least one spot that could prove to be promising.
I guess now I'll just catch up on some sleep, enjoy my son's baseball games, and get ready for fall turkey!
I'll probably do the contest next year. I just can't resist the smack!