Willow Slough participates in the DFW's dove reserve hunt, which takes place on the first two days of dove season. The FWA's outstanding harvest statistics for doves would indicate it as a good one for which to apply.

Typically, Willow Slough has 18 to 22 dove fields each year, and a whopping 140 acres of sunflowers are planted each year for the program.

The dove-hunting fields at Willow Slough are spread out over the property's seven-mile length and the Slough also has satellite fields on Nature Conservancy property and Game Bird Habitat areas. This dispersion of fields helps to reduce concentrated hunting pressure on the doves, which helps to lengthen the number of days good numbers of doves can be taken.

Steel shot is now required on many of the FWAs or on portions of their property, and this is true at Willow Slough. "On our satellite properties steel shot is required," Schoonveld noted. Keeping toxic substances like lead out of the habitat and soil that other upland species rely on is the reason steel shot is required in certain areas.

Remember to use a choke with less constriction for steel shot, because steel resists being constricted more so than lead. For example, if you use an improved cylinder choke with lead shot you should open up to skeet or cylinder choke when using steel shot. For more information on Willow Slough, call (219) 285-2704.

PATOKA LAKE
Patoka Lake is an exceptional place to pursue fishing and hunting activities. Located in southern Indiana where Orange, Crawford and Dubois counties come together, Patoka Lake offers a plethora of outdoor recreational pursuits that includes dove hunting.

Like other DFW properties, there are several dove-hunting fields at Patoka. Tony Havelwood is the property manager at Patoka Lake and he said the number of acres varies from year to year, but it's normally 40 to 45 acres and about four to five fields.

Last year, 1,021 doves were taken at Patoka. This represents a 41 percent increase over the 2003 season. If there is good sunflower-crop production at Patoka this year, then doves should be available in good numbers again.

Because of Patoka's geographical location, the heat of early September is something hunters using this facility should prepare for. In fact, even in northern Indiana, hunters should be ready for the stifling heat that can --and usually does -- occur in early September.

"We've had some hunters who suffered from heat stress; we've had to call EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) for one of these," Havelwood said.

Havelwood also mentioned that unfortunately hunters have lost dogs to heat stress. From personal experience, this writer can attest to the heat on the first and second days of dove season. Temperatures of 90 degrees are not uncommon. If there are no clouds, the high-intensity sunlight can be brutal.

Be sure to bring plenty of fluids, and stay hydrated. Lawn chairs with umbrellas are good for keeping the desert-like sun off your body. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and cool clothing are also advised.

If you're going to bring your dog along, be sure to have plenty of fluids for him or her as well. Keep them in the shade also, especially dogs with dark or black hair.

However, even with plenty of fluids, a dog that has been sedentary since the end of duck or pheasant season is very prone to heat stress, or worse. The best protection you can give your dog is to keep it in shape (year 'round) through a good exercise program and veterinarian care.

For more information on Patoka Lake, call (812) 685-2464. Good hunting this season!