The early bird may catch the worm, but for Hunter Flynn, 15, of Presque Isle, being up early to hunt got him what’s believed to be the first turkey taken since hunting the large fowl became legal in northern Maine.
After decades of decline, wildlife biologists and others have worked over the past several years to re-establish a rafter of turkeys in various locations in northern Aroostook County, including along Route 11 in the Masardis and Ashland region, to Perham, and other sites. Last year was scheduled to be the first hunt in the region but a bad winter resulted in higher-than-expected mortality rates, so officials canceled the hunt. This year’s hunt marks the first time in decades the population has been large enough to sustain a hunt.
Flynn was accompanied by his uncle, Randy Swafford, of Woodland, for the Youth Day hunt, held May 2. Swafford, a registered Maine guide, was surprised how quickly his nephew was able to locate and take the bird.
“We were out turkey scouting for a couple days in Zone 6, located in Woodland. We’d spotted some, including a bearded Tom. You’re only allowed one turkey in this region. That morning, we set out decoys and, as luck would have it, a nice, big Tom came in,” said Swafford. “Hunter took his shot and got him. When we went to register it, you have to give the time it was taken. When we told them 5:10 a.m., we were told we could have the first bird taken that morning.” The pair had obtained landowner permission before accessing the property.
The big Tom weighed in at 20 pounds, had 1 and one-eighth spurs, and had a 10 1/4-inch beard.
Flynn, the son of Rob and Jennifer Flynn, has been hunting since he was 10.
“He’s an avid hunter and has gotten three bucks so far and a bear. He wanted a turkey this time. We went out at 4:45 a.m. knowing we’d have to scout, thinking we’d find something before the day was through. He’s a diligent hunter and knows it takes patience, but he didn’t have to wait long this time,” said Swafford.
Swafford said from what he’s heard, this was the first bird taken during the season since hunting was re-established in northern Maine.
“I can’t speak for all sites — don’t know what they’ve recorded, but this is definitely a landmark to be noted for our area,” said Swafford.
According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, this could easily be one of the first, if not the first, turkeys taken in our area during the new season.
“Not all records are in yet, but if this wasn’t the first bird taken in The County, it’s close — 5:10 a.m. is pretty early,” said Rich Hoppe, wildlife biologist with the DIFW.
Swafford said while Flynn was thrilled to get the turkey, the day was bittersweet for the youth.
“Hunter will be 16 in about a month. He wanted his last trip on Youth Day to be successful. It was and was fun to watch,” said Swafford.
