This is the page where we will add training days, Club-sponsored events, other non-Club events of interest, APLA hunt tests, etc. This page is provided as a resource for the public as well as for Club members. NWPLC does not in general endorse, recommend or promote any private individual or business, nor can we accept responsibility for client-business contracts or relationships. Any individuals or businesses that provide services to our Club are doing so voluntarily and without direct monetary compensation from the Club.
Note on training fees: Unless otherwise indicated, training day fees cover the cost of birds, equipment, land use, and ammunition. If other fees are involved, they will be indicated below.
EVENTS 2024:
FEBRUARY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, Feb. 24, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at the Davis Creek Unit of Scatter Creek WDFW Area. Directions: Approximately 3 miles from Highway 12, off South Bank Road in Oakville, WA. Map coordinates: 46.84709314086477, -123.27445493285511. Details: Cost is $50, which includes 3 chukar and ammo/supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using chukar. Registration limited to the first 20 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MARCH
RETRIEVER WORKSHOP: FROM FORCE-TO-PILE TO COLD BLINDS (members only): Saturday, March 23, 8 am to approx. 4 pm, at Waterdog University. Directions: 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA. Details: This will be a combination seminar/workshop with retriever pro Andy Fontenot for owners interested in learning the steps to begin advanced handling with their dog (casting the dog, using hand signals and a whistle, to a bird they have not seen fall). He will be demonstrating the different stages in the process using dogs he has in training and also helping owners with their own dogs. Prerequisites: participating dogs must be e-collar conditioned, force fetched, know the “sit,” “here,” and “fetch” commands, and be at the appropriate stage in training to be used for demonstration purposes. Cost will be $75 for participants with dogs, and $50 for observers without dogs. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected], 360-508-0022 by March 9 to register.
APRIL
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, April 20, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at the Davis Creek Unit of Scatter Creek WDFW Area. Directions: Approximately 3 miles from Highway 12, off South Bank Road in Oakville, WA. Map coordinates: 46.84709314086477, -123.27445493285511. Details: Cost is $55, which includes 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using chukar. Registration limited to the first 20 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MAY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, May 18, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U. Directions: 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia WA. Details: Cost is $50, which includes 3 birds (a mix of quail and chukar) and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family unless space permits. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using chukar and quail. Registration limited to the first 20 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST (CALIFORNIA): Saturday-Sunday May 25-26, at Camanche Hills Hunting Preserve, Ione CA. See Upcoming APLA Hunt Tests in the Northwest for detail. Starts at 7:30 am on Saturday with handlers meeting Friday evening.
June
EVENT OF INTEREST: APLA SPRING HUNT TEST (E. WASHINGTON): Saturday-Sunday June 8-9, at Morgan’s Point Ranch in Chewelah, WA. For details, click here.
CLUB TRAINING DAY: “Focusing on the details” (members only): Saturday, June 15, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U. Directions: 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia WA. Details: Cost is $55, which includes 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family unless space permits. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing upland work on this day and using chukar. Our retriever focus on this day will be on perfecting the details: line manners, obedience, proper delivery of birds, etc. Registration limited to the first 20 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
EVENT OF INTEREST: Friday June 21 at Espanola Grounds, Medical Lake, WA. Spokane Bird Dog Association will be hosting a Snake Avoidance training. Contact SBDA for details: https://www.spokanebirddog.com/
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST (W. WASHINGTON): Saturday-Sunday, June 22-23, at Waterdog U, Centralia WA. See Upcoming APLA Hunt Tests in the Northwest for detail. Starts at 7:30 am on Saturday with handlers meeting Friday evening.
JULY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, July 13, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U. Directions: 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia WA. Details: Cost is $55, which includes 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using chukar. Registration limited to the first 20 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
AUGUST
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, August 17. Cedarville Farms, 21201 Bicknell Rd, Centralia, WA. Details: Cost is $55, which includes 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using chukar. Registration limited to the first 20 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
SEPTEMBER
APLA FALL TEST: Saturday-Sunday, September 21-22, at Snoqualmie Retriever Grounds (formerly known as Pepper’s).
WOUNDED VETERANS UPLAND HUNT IN COOPERATION WITH CENTRAL OREGON VETERANS OUTREACH: Saturday, September 28, at Gateway Canyon Preserve, 10 NE Juniper Lane, Madras, OR. We are looking for club members to serve as hunting guides for wounded veterans in this joint venture with COVO. Will will need 5-8 upland dogs, most likely, but for safety reasons, they need to be dogs who consistently point and are steady to shot. People who would like to hunt for themselves the following day should contact Gateway Canyon to reserve a hunt. More details about the veterans hunt to follow. Contact Lily Lo if interested, [email protected].
OCTOBER
CLUB UPLAND HUNT (members only): Saturday and Sunday, October 26-27, at Gateway Canyon Preserve, 10 NE Juniper Lane, Madras, OR. There will be 4 fields available for pheasant hunting and 3 for chukar. Multiple dog-friendly lodging options in nearby Madras. Cost and other details to follow.
DECEMBER
CLUB GOOSE HUNT (members only): Sunday, December 29 in Pasco, WA. Join us for an all-day goose hunt with guide Dale Williams. We can take 6-8 hunters and a couple of dogs, but the dogs must be steady with birds touching down right in front of them. You can use a mutthut (bring you own) or have the dog in your layout blind. Contact Lily if interested, [email protected].
EVENTS 2023:
FEBRUARY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, Feb. 25, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at the Davis Creek Unit of Scatter Creek WDFW Area. Directions: Approximately 3 miles from Highway 12, off South Bank Road in Oakville, WA. Map coordinates: 46.84709314086477, -123.27445493285511. Details: Cost is $50/dog, which includes 3 quail, ammo/supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using quail. Registration limited to the first 25 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MARCH
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, March 25, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Jerry Leitch’s place, 17126 WA-203, Monroe, WA. Details: Cost is $50/dog and covers 3 quail and $10/handler landowners fee. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work on land and water. Registration limited to the first 25 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
APRIL
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, April 22, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Wind River Retrievers, 205 Stub Road, Onalaska WA. Details: Cost is $50/dog and covers 3 quail and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing land retrieving work and upland work using quail. Registration limited to the first 25 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MAY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): LOCATION CHANGE! Saturday, May 20, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at 0 Rice Road, Chehalis, WA 98532. Details: Cost is $55 dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Donation to landowner would be greatly appreciated! Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 25 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], 720-490-8020 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
JUNE
JULIE KNUTSON 1-DAY UPLAND WORKSHOP: DOG/HANDLER SPOTS FULL; SPECTATOR SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE. Wednesday, June 21, 8 am – 5 pm, at Waterdog U, Centralia, WA. Julie Knutson, the country’s foremost recognized authority on training pointing Labs, and author of “Training the Pointing Labrador” will be conducting a workshop with a full day of individualized one‐on‐one instruction for members of the Northwest Pointing Labrador Club. Due to the amount of time it takes to cover each topic, dog/handler teams will be limited to the first 10 individuals who register. However, an unlimited number of participants may register to attend the workshop without their dog. Members who have NOT previously participated with their dog in one of Julie’s workshops will receive preference as a dog/handler team if spots become limited. Cost: $150 for dog/handler team; $75 for participant without dog. This includes 4 chukar per dog/handler team (if your dog requires more, they can be purchased for $17 apiece). Lodging: Dry camping will be available for $10/night. Toilet on site. Registration information to follow. Contact Lily for more information, at [email protected], or 360-508-0022.
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST (APLA members only): Friday-Sunday, June 23-25 at Waterdog U, Centralia, WA. Click here for full details.
JULY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, July 29, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at 826 Cinebar Rd, Cinebar, WA. Details: Cost is $17/bird if chukar desired and $5/bird if homing pigeons desired (please specify when registering which combination of birds you would like, e.g., all chukar, 2 chukar/1 pigeon; 3 pigeons;etc.). Homers in launchers are good for dogs who aren’t yet consistently pointing or who have become dedicated flushers; they’re great for training dogs who creep in after the point; and they can be used for steadiness training in the field. Training day is open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing land retrieving work and upland work using chukar or homing pigeons (your preference). Registration limited to the first 25 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register
AUGUST
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, August 26, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia WA. Details: Cost is $55/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing land retrieving work and upland work using chukar. Registration limited to the first 25 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], (720)-490-8020 or Shawn MacFarlane at s[email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register
SEPTEMBER
APLA HUNT TEST: Saturday-Sunday September 23-24, at Waterdog U in Centralia, WA. See Upcoming APLA Hunt Tests in the Northwest for detail. Starts at 7:30 am on Saturday.
EVENTS 2022:
FEBRUARY
CLUB TRAINING DAY-RETRIEVING WORK (members only): Sunday, February 27, at the Davis Creek Unit of Scatter Creek WDFW Area. Directions: Approximately 3 miles from Highway 12, off South Bank Road in Oakville, WA. Map coordinates: 46.84709314086477, -123.27445493285511. Details: Cost is $35/dog. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both retriever and upland work on this day and using quail. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. RSVP to Shawn MacFarlane at [email protected] or (360)-772-2042, no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MARCH
CLUB TRAINING DAY-RETRIEVING WORK (members only): Sunday, March 27, 205 Stub Road, Onalaska WA. Details: Cost is $50/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing land retrieving work and upland work using chukar. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], 720-490-8020 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
APRIL
CLUB TRAINING DAY-RETRIEVING WORK (members only): Saturday, April 23, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Jerry Leitch’s place, 17126 WA-203, Monroe, WA. Details: Cost is $55/dog and covers 3 chukar and $10/handler landowners fee. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], 720-490-8020 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MAY
CLUB TRAINING DAY-RETRIEVING WORK (members only): Sunday, May 22, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Jerry Leitch’s place, 17126 WA-203, Monroe, WA. Details: Cost is $55/dog and covers 3 chukar and $10/handler landowners fee. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], 720-490-8020 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
JUNE
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST (APLA members only): Saturday-Sunday, June 18-19, 2022 at Snoqualmie Valley Retriever Training Grounds. Click here for full details.
JULY
SEMINAR: SETTING UP TRAINING MARKS AND BLINDS (APLA members only): TO BE RESCHEDULED Saturday, July 16, 2022 at 10 am, at Waterdog U, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA. Details: Join professional retriever trainer Andy Fontenot as he discusses how to set up marks and blinds to teach concepts for retrievers. Stay the night and join us for Club Training the next day! Seminar cost is $50/person. Lunch will be provided. Dry camping available for $20. RSVP to Lily at [email protected], 360-508-0022 by July 11 to register for the seminar.
CLUB TRAINING DAY-RETRIEVING WORK (members only): DATE CHANGE! Saturday, July 16, 2022, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA Details: Cost is $50/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], 720-490-8020 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
AUGUST
CLUB TRAINING DAY & ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING(members only): Saturday, August 13, 2022. 8 am to approx. 4 pm, at Waterdog U, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA Details: Cost is $45/dog and covers 3 chukar. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. We will also be having our annual Members meeting, along with a BBQ potluck. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Cade Ray at [email protected], 720-490-8020 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
APLA HUNT TEST: Saturday-Sunday August 27-28, 2022 at Waterdog U in Centralia, WA. See Upcoming APLA Hunt Tests in the Northwest for details.
EVENTS 2021:
FEBRUARY
CLUB TRAINING DAY-RETRIEVING WORK (members only): Saturday February 20, at Scatter Creek WDFW Area, North Unit. Address: 0.5 mile south of the 17100 Case Road parking area, Rochester, WA. Map coordinates: 46°50’13.4″N 122°59’22.3″W Details: Cost is $10/dog. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing only retriever work on this day. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MARCH
ADVANCED HANDLIING SKILLS WORKSHOP WITH ANDY FONTENOT (members only): Saturday, March 6, at Waterdog U, 9 am to 4 pm. This hands-on workshop with professional retriever trainer Andy Fontenot will help handlers improve their skills in running their gun dog or hunt test dog on complex marks and blinds by showing how to set up and teach concept marks and blinds, and how to troubleshoot problems when running those. For handler/dog teams, the dog must be able to run doubles and do cold blinds (corresponds to APLA APR or AKC SH level). Observers without a dog should have some familiarity with basic retrieving and handling terminology.
COST: $75 for handler/dog team (limit 15 teams), $30 for observers without dogs
LUNCH: Provided, along with coffee and pastries in the morning.
RSVP: To Lily Lo at [email protected] by March 1, 2021
TEST SET-UP WORKSHOP FOR JUDGES AND HANDLERS WITH ANDY FONTENOT (members only): Sunday, March 7, at Waterdog U, 9 am to 3 pm. This hands-on workshop with professional retriever trainer Andy Fontenot is geared towards judges and handlers who run or plan to run in hunt tests. Handlers should have a working understanding of retrieving and handling terminology and concepts. The workshop will cover how to set up marks and blinds in order to accurately evaluate a dog’s marking ability, learned skills, and cooperation. It will address how factors such as obstacles, wind, sun, other marks, etc. can affect a dog’s performance and how to use them in properly setting up a fair but challenging test.
COST: $50 per person
LUNCH: Provided, along with coffee and pastries in the morning.
RSVP: To Lily Lo at [email protected] by March 1, 2021
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, March 13, at the Davis Creek Unit of Scatter Creek WDFW Area. Directions: Approximately 3 miles from Highway 12, off South Bank Road in Oakville, WA. Map coordinates: 46.84709314086477, -123.27445493285511. Details: Cost will be $35 per dog, and includes 2 quail and 1 chukar, and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
APRIL
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, April 17, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Jerry Leitch’s place, 17126 WA-203, Monroe, WA. Details: Cost is $40/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. $10/handler landowner fee as well. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
MAY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, May 22, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U, Centralia, WA. Details:
Cost is $40/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
JUNE
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST: June 12-13, 2021 at Snoqualmie Retriever Training Grounds in Carnation, WA. For details, click here.
JULIE KNUTSON UPLAND WORKSHOP: DOG/HANDLER TEAMS ARE FILLED. OBSERVER SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE. June 26-27, 2021, 8 am – 5 pm, on Sauvie Island, OR at Mouse Lake Farms. Julie Knutson, the country’s foremost recognized authority on training pointing Labs, and author of “Training the Pointing Labrador” will be conducting a workshop with 2 full days of individualized one‐on‐one instruction for members of the Northwest Pointing Labrador Club. Due to the amount of time it takes to cover each topic, dog/handler teams will be limited to the first 12 individuals who register. However, an unlimited number of participants may register to attend the workshop without their dog. Only members who have NOT previously participated with their dog in one of Julie’s workshops may register as a dog/handler team. Cost: $225 for dog/handler team; $100 for participant without dog. This includes 4 chukar per dog/handler team (if your dog requires more, they can be purchased for $12.50 apiece), plus lunch, snacks, and beverages. Food/Drink: The Club will provide lunch on Saturday and Sunday, as well as snacks and beverages. Lodging: Dry camping will be available for $10/night. Toilets are on site. Lodging that is within 20 minutes of the site can be found at Best Western Oak Meadows (St. Helens, OR) or downtown Portland. Registration form here: Building a Finished Upland Pointing Lab. Mail completed form to Lily at 162 Shelley Drive, Centralia, WA 98531.
JULY
NON-CLUB EVENT OF INTEREST (offered by Basin Bird Dog Club): Wing Shot & Fall Seminar with pro trainer RJ Marquart, July 16-18th, Quick Silver Kennels in Moses Lake. This seminar will take you step-by-step through the process of making your dog a finished dog in the field and explaining why it works. There will be classroom and outdoor demos throughout the seminar. For more information, contact [email protected], 509-760-7689.
CANINE FIRST AID/TRAUMA WORKSHOP (members only): ALL SPOTS ARE FILLED. Saturday, July 24, 9 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdgo U, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA. Details: This hybrid hands-on workshop and lecture series will cover common emergencies you may encounter in the field with your dog, including snake bites, puncture wounds, lacerations, foreign bodies, paw pad injuries, etc. You will gain experience with stapling and bandaging techniques. Cost TBD depending on the cost of supplies, but anticipate it costing between $50-75. Limited to 14 hands-on participants, all of whom must be fully vaccinated against COVID (as you will be working very closely in groups of 3-4) and to 20 additional observers who do not need to be vaccinated. However non-vaccinated members must wear a mask throughout the entire workshop; vaccinated members do not have to wear a mask unless they are a hands-on participant. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 to reserve your spot.
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): SUNDAY, July 25, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Jerry Leitch’s place, 17126 WA-203, Monroe, WA. Details: Cost is $40/dog and covers 3 chukar, supplies. $10/handler landowners fee as well. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
AUGUST
ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING AND BBQ FUN DAY (members only): Saturday, August 21, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, at Waterdog U, Centralia, WA. Details: This will be our annual membership meeting and will include fun retriever games for all levels of dogs, including a Dock Dog Competition, Duck Dog Challenge–a timed clay shooting event involving retrieving for your dog, and an upland Chukar Challenge (a BDC-type timed event) for those who wish to compete against one another and the clock for a cash prize! There will be fun and prizes and hopefully some lasting memories! The Club will be supplying the beverages and meat for the BBQ and members will be asked to supply side dishes and desserts for a potluck. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
DECEMBER
BEGINNING FORCE FETCH SEMINAR (members only): Saturday December 18, 2021 at Waterdog U, 10 am to 4 pm. In this free seminar, professional retriever trainer Andy Fontenot will discuss and demonstrate force fetch from beginning hold all the way to completion of collar fetch. This event is for the humans only (no dogs). However, if you are new to force fetch and your dog is ready to undergo this process now, please contact Lily ([email protected], 360-508-0022), as there is very limited availability for some hands-on work with your puppy.
COST: Free, but as always, we will be taking donations to give as a gift to Andy for his time.
FORMAT: Classroom seminar with demonstration, no hands-on work. There is limited availability for one-on-one work with Andy for new handlers. Pre-registration required.
LUNCH: Provided, along with coffee in the morning.
RSVP: To Lily Lo at [email protected] by December 12, 2021.
EVENTS 2020:
FEBRUARY
BEGINNING HANDLERS WORKSHOP WITH ANDY FONTENOT (members only): Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Waterdog U, 10 am to 4 pm. When teaching your dog force-to-pile, T-drill, and beginning handling skills, it’s crucial to know when, how, and how much pressure to apply to advance training effectively without lessening your dog’s drive or creating “hot spots.” This hands-on workshop with professional retriever trainer Andy Fontenot will teach handlers the importance of properly timed and appropriately given pressure, when it’s appropriate to introduce pressure, how to do it, and most importantly, when not to apply pressure.
INTENDED AUDIENCE: Owners wishing to learn how to handle and train their dogs for advanced retriever work, including T-drill, beginning blinds, and cold blinds. For handlers wishing to bring their dogs to this workshop, the dog must be ready for T-drill or doing work beyond that level (i.e., running blinds). Dogs already doing advanced handling with a professional trainer can also be brought if the owner wants to gain the skills needed to run their own dog after the dog comes home.
FORMAT: This workshop will begin with a classroom session in the training barn, followed by hands-on work with your dog in the field.
COST: Free, but as always, we will be taking donations to give as a gift to Andy for his time.
LUNCH: Provided, along with coffee in the morning.
RSVP: To Lily Lo at [email protected] by Feb. 2, 2020
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, February 29, 2020, 8 am to approx. 3 pm, Benton City, WA. Join us for a club training day in Eastern Washington. We will be training on both retriever ( marking,etc.) and upland bird work. $45 includes 3 chuckar and supplies. RSVP to Kelly Merrick at 509-578-0413 or [email protected] by no later than Monday, February 24th to reserve your spot and for directions to the training location.
MARCH
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): EVENT IS FULL. Sunday, March 1, 2020, at Scatter Creek WDFW Area, North Unit. Address: 0.5 mile south of the 17100 Case Road parking area, Rochester, WA. Map coordinates: 46°50’13.4″N 122°59’22.3″W Details: Cost is $45/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): CANCELLED DUE TO COVID CONCERNS. Saturday, March 28, 2020, at Smith Canyon ponds, in Pasco, WA. Start time 8 am. $45 for 3 chuckar plus supplies. Retriever and upland work. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Kelly at 509-578-0413 no later than March 22nd to reserve your spot.
APRIL
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): CANCELLED DUE TO COVID CONCERNS. Sunday, April 5, 2020, at Scatter Creek WDFW Area, North Unit. Address: 0.5 mile south of the 17100 Case Road parking area, Rochester, WA. Map coordinates: 46°50’13.4″N 122°59’22.3″W Details: Cost is $45/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): CANCELLED DUE TO COVID CONCERNS. Sunday, April 26, 2020, at Quicksilver Kennels, 8998 Road 18 NE, Moses Lake. Cost is $45/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Spots are limited so RSVP early to save your spot to Kelly at 509-578-0413 or by email at [email protected] no later than Wednesday April 22nd. Dry camping available Saturday night no charge for those participating in both events.
CANINE EMERGENCY FIRST AID WORKSHOP (members only): POSTPONED AND WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR LATER THIS YEAR. Sunday, April 26, 2020, in Eatonville, WA. This will be a hands-on workshop with Dr. Jill Blake, a small animal emergency veterinarian, focusing on management and stabilization of injuries in the field while hunting or training. There will be a fee to cover supplies and space is limited. Details to follow. For more information, contact Lily Lo at [email protected].
MAY
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19 CONCERNS 🙁 Saturday, May 30, 2020, at Waterdog U. Address: 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA. Details: Cost is $45/dog and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Limited to 2 dogs per family. Open to members only, but guests are welcome to observe without their dogs. We will be doing both upland work and land/water retriever work. Registration limited to the first 30 dogs to sign up. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] or (360)-508-0022 no later than 1 week prior to event to register.
JUNE
MOCK TEST (members only): Saturday, June 20, 2020, start time 7:30 am. Waterdog U, Centralia, WA. This will be a Mock test/training day focused on water and land retrieves and upland work, simulating all aspects of the APLA hunt test. Cost is $45 for dogs planning to run this as a mock test in preparation for the APLA hunt test in July and covers 3 chukar, supplies, and landowner tip. Limit 2 dogs/family. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo no later than 1 week prior, at [email protected], 360-508-0022.
JULY
SPRING APLA HUNT TEST: CPR/APR only on Saturday-Sunday, July 11-12, 2020 in Centralia, WA. For details, click here.
SPRING APLA HUNT TEST: APR/MPR only on Saturday-Sunday, July 18-19, 2020 in Rochester, WA. For details, click here.
AUGUST
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Sunday, August 9, 2020, start time 8 am. Cedarville Farms, Rochester WA. This will be a training day focused on water and upland work. We are renting private property on the border between Lewis and Thurston Counties, near Grand Mound/Centralia, WA. Directions will be e-mailed to all participants prior to the event. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. Cost is $45, which covers 3 birds, supplies, and landowner fee. RSVP to Lily Lo no later than 1 week prior, at [email protected], 360-508-0022.
MOCK TEST (members only): Saturday, August 29, 2020, start time 7:30 am. at Waterdog U. Address: 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA. Details: This will be a Mock test/training day focused on water and land retrieves and upland work, simulating all aspects of the APLA hunt test. Cost is $45 for dogs planning to run this as a mock test in preparation for the APLA hunt test in September and covers 3 chukar and supplies. Cost is $30 for dogs not planning to run in the September APLA hunt test and covers 2 chukar and supplies. Limit 2 dogs/family. Participating dogs must be up to date on core immunizations. Hunter orange and eye protection mandatory in the upland field; hearing protection optional but recommended. RSVP to Lily Lo no later than 1 week prior, at [email protected], 360-508-0022.
SEPTEMBER
APLA HUNT TEST: Sept. 12-13, 2020 at Waterdog U in Centralia, WA. For details, click here.
OCTOBER
APLA HUNT TEST: October 3-4, 2020 at Salmon Falls Property in Wendell, ID. For details, click here.
NOVEMER
VETERANS WEEKEND CLUB HUNT (co-sponsored with Columbia Basin Pointing Labrador Club): Saturday and Sunday, November 7-8, 2020 at Williams Guide Service in Pasco, WA. Details to follow.
EVENTS 2019
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Sunday, April 14, 2019, beginning at 8:30 am, in Rochester, WA at Scatter Creek Wildlife Recreation Area, Scatter Creek North Unit.
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
EVENTS 2018:
FEBRUARY
Event of Interest: Lower Columbia HRC Training Day: February 10, 2018, 33220 Pittsburg Road, St. Helens, OR. Registration 9 am, start time 10 am. Bring your own lunch. LCHRC members first dog $15, add’l dogs $10 each. Non-members first dog $20, add’l dogs $10 each. 1st Timers- free if you become a LCHRC member. For more information, contact Julie Moore.
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
EAST SIDE MOCK APLA HUNT TEST (members only): Sunday, May 6, 2018, at 9 am. Location: Espanola Training Grounds (where Hunt Test will be). Prepare for the APLA hunt test at the grounds where the spring HT will be held! The purpose of this mock test is to show new handlers the mechanics of how an APLA HT is run. It is primarily geared towards CPR and APR level dogs. For the actual test, chukar and pheasant are used in the upland field, but for this mock test, bobwhite quail will be used instead. For those who wish to run MPR level land and water series, that will be available as well. Cost is $25/
WEST SIDE MOCK APLA HUNT TEST (members only): Saturday, May 12, at 8:30 am. Location: Waterdog U at 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA (where last fall’s APLA HT was held). This will be a training day run like a mock APLA hunt test and geared towards CPR and APR level dogs primarily. Master level water and land marks and blinds will be set up as well. Cost is $40 and covers 3 chukar in the upland field and dead ducks for the retrieves and blinds. Contact Lily Lo ([email protected]) no later than Monday, May 7 to reserve your spot(s). BYOL but coffee and donuts will be provided. We will be taking donations for a landowner appreciation tip as thanks to Andy and Beth Fontenot for allowing us to use their grounds.
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST: Saturday-Sunday, May 26-27, at Espanola Training Grounds near Spokane, WA. Judges: MASTER Kevin Eskam, John Swindle. ADVANCED Lily Lo, Kevin Eskam, John Swindle. CERTIFIED Don Banducci, Gary Oakes. For more information, click here. To register for the Hunt Test, click here.
JULY
Event of Interest: Training Day with Quicksilver Kennels: Sunday, July 15, at Quicksilver Kennels in Moses Lake, WA. Pro trainer R. J. Marquart is hosting a training clinic for $50 per person plus cost of birds. $5 for pigeons. Training held on a CRP field, no cheat grass. Pointing Labs only. Contact R. J. at (509) 765-1213 for more details.
AUGUST
COMBINED UPLAND/RETRIEVER TRAINING DAY (with Sand and Sage HRC): Sunday, August 5, 2018, at 7 am for upland, at Skyhigh Rerievers in Othello, WA. 3 chukar limit (due to heat). $8 per bird. Training ponds are only a few yards away to keep your dog cool before and after running. Participants are then welcome to join the land or water marks being run below after upland is finished. E-mail or text Kelly Merrick at 509-578-0413 to RSVP and reserve your birds no later than August 3, noon.
UPLAND TRAINING DAY: Saturday August 11th at Espanola Training Grounds in Medical Lake near Spokane. Start time determined by number of participants. $8 per bird. E-mail or text Kelly Merrick at 509-578-0413 to RSVP and reserve your birds no later than noon, August 9th.
1ST ANNUAL MEMBER APPRECIATION FUN DAY (members only): Saturday, August 18, at Waterdog U in Centralia, WA. Start time 9:00 and this will be an all-day event, more details to follow. This will be held in conjunction with our Advanced Retriever Workshop (see below). This will be a one-day event celebrating our Club members, with raffles and fun games like speed retrieve where you and your dog can win fantastic prizes. We will also be doing retriever training on land and water, including marks and blinds using dead ducks. Lunch will be provided, dry camping will be available, and the event is FREE to all our Club members!
ADVANCED RETRIEVER WORKSHOP (members only): Sunday, August 19, at Waterdog U in Centralia, WA, start time 9:00 am. This all-day workshop will be geared specifically for handlers ready to move on towards AKC Senior Hunter/Master Hunter, HRC Seasoned/Finished, or APLA Master Pointing Retriever level work. Although all of our Club members are welcomed to attend as non-dog observers, participating dog/handler teams must have dogs that can handle on land and run land blinds, have completed swim-by and are able to handle on water blinds. Marking singles and doubles well is a prerequisite too. Andy will go over drills and training set-ups you can do to help your dog learn various concepts in marking and handling, such as water cheats, angled entries and exits, shorelines, running through old falls, marking multiple birds, etc. Limited to 8 dog/handler teams. Cost for dog/handler teams is $75. Cost for non-dog observers is $25. Contact Lily to register.
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
Now that hunt test season is over, let’s get our dogs on some pheasant! Join other NWPLC club members for a Veteran’s Day Weekend pheasant hunt in Eastern Washington at a brand new preserve near Benton City, WA (approximately 10 miles from Tri-Cities). Here’s what we are planning:
- Friday evening, November 9th: Gather for dinner (for those interested) to tell hunting stories (lies allowed) and talk hunting strategy – Location TBA
- Saturday AM Hunt November 10th, 8:30 AM: gather at hunt site for directions to the fields (Coffee/ light breakfast provided by club). For those not wanting to hunt, there is local shopping up the road in Prosser, or a GREAT Veterans Day parade going on in West Richland starting at 9AM.
- Saturday Mid-Day – Lunch (provided by the club)
- Saturday Afternoon – Afternoon hunts begin at 1PM. There are other options for us also. Since this preserve is in the middle of wine country, for those who would like to take a break from hunting, we will be doing some touring of local dog friendly wineries, includingFrichette Winery for a corn-hole challenge, Sleeping Dog Wines, Cooper Wine Company, and possibly more. Another option is some trap and skeet shooting at our local gun club approximately 8 miles away. Card games, naps, all are options.
- Saturday Evening – Dinner/ Club Potluck – Longest Tailfeather Award
- Sunday AM Hunt 9AM (Coffee/ light breakfast provided)
- Sunday Noon – Wrap up and departure
What you need to know:
- Bird Package is $185 for 8 rooster pheasant. This can be split between two hunters (one field) if desired.
- Wild birds are part of this preserve and can be taken while you are hunting your field – quail and pheasant are natural to this area. If you’re a Veteran, you’ll get an additional 20% off!
- $50 deposit (per hunter) to hold your spot required by October 31st. RSVP to Kelly at (509) 578-0413 or by email to [email protected]. The deposit should be made payable to “NW Pointing Lab Club” and sent to Kelly Merrick. Balance of bird package collected the day of first hunt, cash or check accepted, or you can pay by credit card in advance to Lily with fee added.
- Dry camping available on site – no charge
- Lodging: Nearest hotels include Home2 Suites by Hilton in Richland (approximately 12 miles) – rate $111 per night, or Best Western Horse Heaven Hills in Prosser at $119 per night. Other hotels at lesser rates and further distance can be found by searching trip advisor. RV parks in the area nearby include Beach RV Park (Benton City), Wine Country RV Park (Prosser, Pet friendly), or Columbia Sun RV Resort.
EVENTS 2017:
JANUARY
FORCE FETCH WORKSHOP (members only): Sunday, January 8, 2017, at Chickadee Ranch in West Richland, WA. Katie Williams is offering a free hands-on workshop to our Club members with young dogs needing to be force fetched. She will guide owners through the steps of force fetch from hold and carry to reach and picking up bumpers from the ground, helping owners begin the process with their own dogs and giving them a foundation to start force to pile work. To register, you must contact Kelly Merrick. There is no cost. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
CANINE FIRST AID COMPREHENSIVE WORKSHOP (members only): CANCELLED – TO BE RESCHEDULED. Saturday & Sunday, January 14-15, 2017, at 1907 Cooks Hill Road in Centralia, WA. This comprehensive workshop is a 2-day, 14-hour long program taught by Brandy Mauel-Fay, DVM from Chehalis-Centralia Veterinary Hospital. The course combines didactic teaching with hands-on experience in dealing with nearly every emergency you may encounter with your dog. This includes how to handle puncture wounds, suturing, stapling, pulling porcupine quills, dealing with allergic reactions, diarrhea, poisonous ingestions, splinting, etc. You are welcome to bring your own dog to practice splinting, bandaging and other skills on, but there will be a demo dog present for you to practice on as well. Cost is $125/person and includes all materials and lunch both days. Lodging information can be found here. Pet-friendly lodging can be found here. Registration is limited to 10 people, with a waiting list for 2 more, first-come / first-served. To register, please e-mail Lily Lo.
Tri-Cities Sportsmen Show: January 20-22, 2017 at the TRAC in Pasco, WA. The Club will be sharing a booth at this show. Stop by and say hi to our dogs.
FEBRUARY
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): EVENT IS FULL but spectators are welcome. Saturday, February 25, 2017, Scatter Creek WDFW Area, NORTH. Here is a video of the day’s activities:
MARCH
EAST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): EVENT IS FULL but spectators are welcome. Saturday, March 11, at Fishhook Ranch, Pasco WA. Starts at 9 am. Cost is a la carte: pick up to 3 birds in any combination of chukar ($8)/pheasant ($14), add $5 for lunch, $2 for supplies/ammo. Non-members are welcome to observe. RSVP required no later than 1 week prior to event. Contact Kelly Merrick at [email protected] to reserve your spot.
Bighorn Outdoor Adventure Show: March 16-19, 2017, in Spokane, WA. The Club will have a booth at this show. Stop by and say hi.
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): EVENT IS FULL but spectators are welcome. Sunday, March 19, Scatter Creek WDFW Area, NORTH, southern parking lot where the toilet is, in Rochester, WA. Starts at 8:30 am. Discovery Pass or WDFW Access Pass required. Cost is $35 and covers 3 chukar per dog plus supplies. Bring your own lunch! Non-members are welcome to observe.
EAST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Sunday, March 26, in Spokane, WA. Starts at 9 am. Cost is $14 for Pheasant, $8 for Chuckar, $5 for lunch, $2 for ammo. Limited to first 12 dogs to sign up, maximum 2 dogs/handler. RSVP required no later than Tuesday, March 21st. Contact Kelly Merrick at (509) 578-0413 to reserve your spot. (This training is weather permitting).
APRIL
APLA SPRING HUNT TEST: Saturday-Sunday, April 1-2, 2017, in Ione, CA. This APLA Hunt Test is planned to be held at Camanche Hills Preserve, located in central California near Sacramento. In attention to ideal hung test grounds, the location features several world class sporting clays courses as well. For more info, see our APLA Hunt Test page.
COMBINED EAST/WEST CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): EVENT IS FULL but spectators are welcome. Sunday, April 30, at 1660 Riverbottom Road, Ellensburg, WA. Starts at 9 am. Cost will be $35 and covers 3 birds, ammunition, and supplies. BYO lunch. Non-members are welcome to observe. Limited to first 20 dogs to sign up, maximum 2 dogs/handler.
MAY
EASTERN WASHINGTON CLUB HUNT (members and their friends/families only): Friday afternoon-Sunday afternoon, May 5-7, 2017, at Double Barrel Ranch in Rockford, WA. Premier pheasant hunting at the Double Barrel in Spokane. 5 bird minimum per hunt. $25 non refundable deposit due by April 25th guarantees your spot. There are limited fields so first come, first serve! Cozy lodging available, dry camping, or nearby hotels. Lodge rates will be based on total number of people. Cost per Rooster Pheasant is $34 each or $30 if we meet our 50 bird punch card price. Club will provide lunch on Saturday, Potluck dinner on Friday and Saturday night, and breakfast on your own. This is a very comfortable place to hunt, with a full gourmet kitchen in the lodge for you to prepare any meals. For more information, email [email protected]. Send your $25 (per person) deposit to NWPLC by April 25th to secure your spot, and let us know if you will have a hunting partner. Mail to: Lily Lo, NWPLC, 162 Shelley Drive, Centralia, WA 98531. For more information visit their website at www.uplandbirdranch.com
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday, May 20, at Scatter Creek WDFW North Unit, in Rochester, WA. Cost is $35 and covers 3 birds, ammunition, and supplies. BYO lunch. Non-members are welcome to observe. Limited to first 20 dogs to sign up, maximum 2 dogs/handler. Contact Lily Lo at [email protected] to reserve your spot. Here’s a link to the video from the Training Day.
JUNE
EAST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY: Saturday, June 3, 9 am-1 pm at Sky High Retrievers in Othello, WA. Let’s get our dogs in the water! Join us for a combined training day with the Sand and Sage Hunting Retriever Club. We will work on Hunt Test and hunting scenarios . Members Only due to time constraints. Please RSVP to [email protected] if you plan to attend. This training day will also include a session on the Do’s and Don’ts of collar conditioning your dog, led by Pro Trainer Patrick Rodgers of Eloika Ridge Retrievers, which will begin at approximately 1PM. Bring your own Lunch. Cost is free but land-owner tip appreciated.
Event of Interest: Rattlesnake Aversion Training: June 15, 2017 in Richland, WA, hosted by 4Paws DogWorks. Dogs are scheduled by appointment and a deposit holds your spot. Contact 4Paws DogWorks for more information.
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (members only): EVENT IS FULL. Saturday June 17, 2017 in Chehalis, WA. This will be on private property off I-5, exit 72 and we will be doing both upland training and water marks. Cost is $25 and covers 2 birds, ammo, and supplies (if there are extra chukar, handlers may purchase additional birds for $11 apiece). Land-owner tip will be collected. POTLUCK PICNIC by the pond for lunch. The Club will be barbecuing brats and will provide buns and water. Bring sides to share. Limited to first 20 dogs to sign up, maximum 2 dogs/handler. You must RSVP to Lily Lo at [email protected] to reserve your spot. Directions to the property will be e-mailed to registrants.
JULY
JULIE KNUTSON HUNT TEST JUDGES TRAINING SEMINAR: July 7, 2017, 12-4 pm in Eatonville, WA, just before the training seminar begins. This will be a seminar for anyone interested in learning more about hunt test set-up and what judges take into consideration when setting up marks and blinds for CPR, APR, and MPR tests. If you are interested in eventually becoming an APLA Hunt Test judge (and we need west coast judges!), you will want to attend this seminar. Cost is free.
JULIE KNUTSON TRAINING WORKSHOP (members only): July 7-9, 2017 (Friday 5 pm-8 pm through Sunday 4 pm) in Eatonville, WA. Nationally acclaimed pointing Lab trainer Julie Knutson, who literally wrote the book on training pointing Labrador retrievers, will be teaching this hands-on workshop. Please note this is NOT a “training weekend” for your dog and Julie will not be training your dog for you. This is mainly a human handler teaching/learning workshop where Julie will give you a philosophy of training, show you some of the process and techniques and have you practice with your dog. There will be obedience, retrieving, and upland work. Cost will be $225 for dog/handler teams (limited to 12 teams) and $100 for participants without dogs. For each dog/handler team, cost covers instruction and one-on-one work in obedience and the upland field, birds, and supplies. A light breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and a pig roast feast on Saturday night are included for all participants. Julie is donating all proceeds back to the Club, as this is our biggest fundraiser of the year. Registration information will be released in late May via e-mail, so please do not contact me about registration until you receive the e-mail. First priority for dog/handler spots will be given to members who did not attend her seminar last year in any capacity; second preference will be given to members who did not attend with their dog last year; and if there are any spaces remaining, repeat attenders with dogs will be permitted to register. Participation without a dog is open to all members.
AUGUST
MOCK APLA TEST: Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Waterdog U in Centralia, WA. Start time is 7 am. BYO lunch although water, coffee, and snacks will be provided. We will be simulating the APLA Hunt Test for all levels of dogs (CPR, APR, MPR). E-collars will be permitted at this mock test if desired (but they are not allowed at the actual test). Cost is $40 for CPR and APR dogs, $60 for MPR/GMPR dogs, payable the day of the mock test. Individual dogs may only be entered in one stake (i.e., not both CPR and APR or CPR and MPR). Pre-registration (but not payment) is required and deadline to register is 11:59 pm August 13. Driving directions and run order will be sent to all registered participants a few days before the mock test. Dry camping is available for a donation.
SEPTEMBER
COMBINED UPLAND/WATER TRAINING DAY (members only): Saturday September 16, 2017, at Sky High Retrievers in Othello, WA. Cost: Hen Pheasants, $6, Rooster Pheasants $10 – Bird Order must be received by Monday, September 4th to Kelly Merrick via Facebook, email ([email protected] or text or call (509) 578-0413. BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch)Suggested Land Owner Tip $10 per person. Other things to bring: shotgun if you plan to shoot, steel shot. Normal Dog Stuff, Sun Screen, Pop Up Tent (if you have one), Chair, attitude for fun and learning.
APLA FALL HUNT TEST: September 23-24, 2017, at Waterdog U, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia WA. The weekend begins with a Handlers meeting at 7 pm on Friday Sept. 22 at the test site. It is important that you attend because the judges will go over the rules and judging standards, review the schedule, and answer questions. The test starts at 7:30 am on Saturday Sept. 23 with CPR, APR, and MPR/GMPR stakes. Sunday Sept. 24 will be for APR, MPR/GMPR, and CPR re-runs and APR re-runs. For more information, contact the HT Chair.
Go to our APLA Hunt test page for more details.
OCTOBER
ANNUAL CLUB HUNT (members only): CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER. Friday through Sunday, October 20-22, 2017, at Queener Ridge Pheasant Company in Scio, OR (just 30 min from Salem and 1 hour from Portland).
LADIES ONLY CLUB HUNT (members only): CANCELLED. Friday through Sunday, October 27-29, 2017, in Ellensburg, WA.
NOVEMBER
EASTERN WA FALL PHEASANT HUNT (members and friends): Saturday-Sunday, November 4-5, at Hidden Ranch Outfitters in Coulee City, WA. Join us for a Fall Pheasant Hunt in Eastern Washington! Hidden Acres Ranch has over 2,000 acres of easy rolling terrain with grass and sagebrush cover. Pheasant are $30 per bird, non-guided. Chukar package is 8 for $130, or $18 per bird.
Hidden Ranch Outfitters “Ranch Lodging” is located on-site in the remote region of North Central Washington (NCW) between the communities of Bridgeport and Grand Coulee. Their unique Ranch Lodge consist of two (2) authentic farm houses, recently remodeled, offering you a peaceful and private place to relax and have fun. Ranch Lodge is fully equipped with all the amenities one could ask for to enjoy time away from home. There are five bedrooms between the two houses, full kitchen in each house, wood stove, and laundry. Houses rent for $125 per night with each house having 2-3 bedrooms, so cost can be split if you are not an RV’er. Dry Camping available at no charge.
We will do potluck dinners, with breakfast on your own, lunch provided by the club. We will have our annual longest tail-feather competition, and also a prize for best hunting story.
RSVP to Kelly Merrick, commitment due by October 3rd to secure the lodging (houses). Need to know how many in your hunting party, how many birds each hunter would like, and how many times you wish to hunt: Saturday AM, Saturday PM, and Sunday AM.
EVENTS 2016:
MARCH
Event of Interest: Monthly Training Weekends with R.J. Marquart: March 12-13, 2016 at 9 am, at Quicksilver Kennels in Moses Lake, WA. For more information, contact R.J. Marquart at 509-765-1213, or e-mail [email protected]. See his Facebook page for updates on future dates.
Event of Interest: Port-Van Pointing Dog Club Monthly Fun Trials: March 13, April 10, May 1, June 12, July 10, 2016, all starting at 7 am, in Scappoose, OR. First timers can come and try it out, running their dog for the cost of the fun trial only ($30/dog) and not paying the $35 membership dues unless they like it and want to join for the remainder of the year. For the $30 trial fee, 5 birds are planted (mix of quail and chuckar) in a 10 acre field, and you and a brace mate have 15 min to find, point and retrieve as many birds as you can. Check cords allowed for Puppy division (up to 16 months); e-collars allowed for Derby (up to 30 months) and Open divisions (all ages). For more information, contact Lily Lo.
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (ROCHESTER WA): EVENT IS FULL but spectators welcome. Saturday March 19, 2016 starting at 9 am at Scatter Creek WDFW Area, NORTH, southern parking lot where the toilet is, in Rochester, WA. Discovery Pass or WDFW Access Pass required. Here’s a video from the Training Day:
Event of Interest: All Breeds Health Clearance Day (Ethel, WA) : Sunday March 20, 2016, from 9 am to 4 pm, at Timberland Veterinary Hospital, 2150 US Hwy 12, Ethel, WA 98542, (360)-985-2700. Timberland Vet offers these breeders health clearance days several times a year for reduced rates and does an excellent job. Fees for this day are as follows: Heart auscultation OFA $35.00; + echo $190.00; Eyes CERF $24.00; Hips x-ray OFA $58.00; Elbows x-ray OFA $58.00; Hips & elbows x-rays OFA $79.00; Thyroid OFA $95.00; Patellas OFA $16.00; Dentition OFA $20.00; Blood panel $55.00; Microchip ISO $25.00
EAST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (PASCO, WA): Saturday, March 26, 2016, starting at 9 am at Fishhook Ranch, 15401 Pasco Kahlotus Road, Pasco, WA. Cost is free for members plus cost of birds; non-members $5 plus cost of birds. We’ll be using chukar ($9) and pheasant ($14). Dry Camping at training site is available. Optional overnight lodging options can be found here: http://koa.com/campgrounds/pasco/ , http://www.franklincountyrvpark.com/, http://hornrapidsrvresort.com/?v=e2ae933451f4. Here’s a video from that Training Day:
APRIL
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY (ROCHESTER, WA): EVENT IS FULL but spectators welcome. Saturday, April 23, 2016, starting at 9 am at Scatter Creek WDFW Area, NORTH, southern parking lot where the toilet is, in Rochester, WA. Discovery Pass or WDFW Access Pass required. Cost is free to members plus cost of birds; cost is $5 for non-members plus cost of birds; includes lunch and beverages. We’ll start with retrieving and marking drills, then move on to the upland work. RV camping available at Outback RV Park in Rochester, WA. Here’s a video of this training day.
MAY
EAST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY: Saturday, May 7, 2016, starting at 8:30 am at Fishhook Ranch, 15401 Pasco Kahlotus Road, Pasco, WA. Cost is free to members plus cost of birds; cost is $5 for non-members plus cost of birds; includes lunch and beverages. Dry Camping at training site is available. Overnight lodging options can be found here. Camping options available at KOA, Franklin County RV Park, or Horn Rapids RV Resort. Here’s the video from this Training Day:
WEST SIDE CLUB TRAINING DAY: EVENT IS FULL but spectators welcome. Saturday, May 21, 2016, Scatter Creek WDFW Area, NORTH, southern parking lot where the toilet is, in Rochester, WA. Discovery Pass or WDFW Access Pass required. Cost is free to members plus cost of birds; cost is $5 for non-members plus cost of birds; includes lunch and beverages. Here are photos from this Training Day.
JULIE KNUTSON TRAINING SEMINAR (members only): DOG/HANDLER TEAM REGISTRATION IS FULL. Friday, June 3 through Sunday, June 5. Nationally acclaimed pointing Lab trainer Julie Knutson, who literally wrote the book on training pointing Labrador retrievers, taught this seminar for us in Eatonville, WA. Here is a video of the highlights.
JULY
ANDY FONTENONT RETRIEVING SEMINAR (members only): Saturday, July 16, starting at 10 am (this will last all day), at Waterdog University, 199 Proffitt Road, Centralia, WA. Andy Fontenot–a nationally recognized professional retriever trainer and SportDOG Waterfowl Hunting ProStaff who apprenticed under Louisiana pro Mark Smith–will be conducting this retrieving seminar for our Club. Through Water Dog University, a training program for owners/handlers, Andy has personally coached and trained owners with experience handling over 100 titled retrievers. He himself has trained over 50 UKC Championship Retrievers and AKC Master Hunters. This one-day seminar will be free to Club members and will be held on Andy’s training grounds in Centralia WA, where there are several technical ponds and acres of grassy fields. Andy will start with the basics of obedience and communication and expand from there. Topics to be addressed will include E-collar conditioning, force fetch, delivering birds to hand, introduction to handling, marking/retrieving, running blinds, introduction to water marks, swim-bys and blinds. Please bring a chair. Lunch and drinks will be provided. Please RSVP to Lily Lo by July 9 so we know how much food to prepare.
EAST SIDE WATER TRAINING DAY: Saturday July 23, at SkyHigh Retrievers, located on West Cunningham Road in Othello, WA. Starting at 8:30 am to beat the heat. Pro retriever trainer Patrick Rodgers of Eloika Ridge Retrievers, who is a retired Air Force veteran with more than 27 years of retriever training experience–having apprenticed under pro trainer greats John Pecan and Lyle Babcock–will be offering his expertise for the day. This training will be held in Othello, utilizing the premiere training grounds and technical ponds at Sky High Retrievers. We will primarily focus on APLA testing criteria, tailoring the day as much as possible to meet each dog/handler’s individual needs. Dead ducks will be used for the retrieves to simulate APLA testing conditions. Topics to be addressed include communication between handler/dog, planning for training, basic obedience, hold training, intro to water, water marks, bank de-cheating drills, tips/tricks and more. Lunch and drinks provided. Cost is free to attend. Bring a shade canopy if you have one. Camping is available nearby at Potholes State Park or Skooteney Park. If a couple of folks don’t wish to camp, they are welcome to contact Kelly and Kevin Merrick, who have two spare guest rooms and are located just 40 minutes from Othello. RSVP to Kelly Merrick by July 20th if you plan on attending.
Event of Interest: Rattlesnake Aversion Training (Moses Lake, WA): Sunday July 24, from 8 am, by appointment only (60 slots available). To be held at Quicksilver Kennels, 8998 Road 18 NE, Moses Lake, Washington. Hosted by the Basin Bird Dog Club, with aversion training done by Get Rattled, cost is $85 per dog. Contact Larry Thibodeau at 306-200-1518, [email protected] to schedule an appointment for your dog.
AUGUST
MOCK HUNT TEST: EVENT IS FULL but spectators welcome. Saturday, August 20, 2016 in Centralia, WA, at Waterdog University, 199 Proffitt Road. Start time TBD. We will be simulating the APLA Hunt Test for all levels of dogs (CPR, APR, MPR). E-collars will be permitted at this mock test if desired (but they are not allowed at the actual test). Cost is $45/dog for CPR, $50/dog for APR, $70/dog for MPR. Here’s a link to photos of the day.
SEPTEMBER
APLA HUNT TEST: Sept. 24-25, 2016 in Monroe, WA. Go to our APLA Hunt test page for more details.
OCTOBER
CLUB HUNT (members and their friends/families only): October 7-9, 2016 at Double Barrel Ranch in Rockford, WA. Join your fellow pointing Lab enthusiasts for a weekend of pheasant hunting in eastern Washington. Double Barrel Ranch offers a 3,000 acre hunting preserve with the finest upland bird hunting cover and habitat in the State of Washington, the hardest flushing and flying birds, and personalized service. Dry camping is FREE with hot showers and restrooms are available at no extra charge. The Lodge sleeps 9 and can be reserved by the club for $450 per night. Cost per person for a non-guided hunt is $29 per pheasant PLUS lodging if needed (approx. $50/person/night). Meals are on your own, or can be provided by the lodge at a fee if ordered in advance (see website for examples). Other activities include a Sporting Clays Range which can be reserved for the group at an additional cost. A $100 deposit to guarantee your spot will be due September 1st ($150 for those wishing to lodge). To register for this event, contact Kelly Merrick at [email protected].
LAST CHANCE FALL TRAINING DAY: October 29, 2016 near Spokane, WA.
We will be holding one final Eastern Washington training this year to ensure our dogs are ready for the field and the weeks and months ahead of upland bird and waterfowl hunting.
Training Date: Saturday, October 29th
Training Time: 9:00 AM – Early afternoon
Meet At: Yokes Grocery Store – 14202 N. Market Street, Mead, WA. Directions can be found here. In an attempt to respect the privacy of the land owner, we will be training in a private field north of Spokane along Highway 2. Meet at the Yokes Parking Lot in Mead no later than 8:45. The property is not far, and we will caravan in together. Please call Kelly at (509) 578-0413 if for any reason you will be late or have difficulty finding it.
What to bring: Dog, water/water dish, leash, collar, chair, snacks (if desired), layered clothing, blanket (optional), hunter orange clothing.
Cost: Free to members, $5 to non-members.
Lunch – $5 for sack lunch (provided with prior RSVP)
Birds – $13 for Rooster Pheasants, $12 for Hen Pheasants, $8 for Chuckar. Limit 4 birds per dog, max. 2 dogs/person.
NOVEMBER
3rd ANNUAL CLUB HUNT (members and their friends/families only): November 18-20, 2016 at Gateway Canyon Preserve in Madras, OR. Join fellow Club members for a weekend of pheasant and chukar hunting in 1200 acres of prime upland habitat in central Oregon. Here’s a video of this year’s hunt.
DECEMBER
FORCE FETCH WORKSHOP (members only): December 10, 2016 at 10 am in Centralia, WA. Professional retriever trainer Andy Fontenot is offering a free hands-on workshop to our Club members with young dogs needing to be force fetched. He will guide owners through the steps of force fetch from hold and carry to reach and picking up bumpers from the ground, helping owners begin the process with their own dogs and giving them a foundation to start force to pile work. To register, you must contact Lily Lo by December 3, 2016. There is no cost. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
2015 EVENTS:
2nd Annual Club Hunt (members only): November 14-15, 2015 at Gateway Canyon Preserve in Madras, OR. Here’s a video from the Annual Club Hunt:
FALL APLA HUNT TEST: September 26-27, 2015 in Monroe, WA. This one’s in the books! Here’s a video of the event.
MOCK APLA HUNT TEST: Saturday, September 12, 2015 in Yacolt, WA (private land), starting at 10 am. This mock test session is designed to help handlers running their first APLA hunt test, and will simulate the CPR stake with both upland field test and water retrieves. Hunt test etiquette and scoring will be discussed along with helpful tips to help you succeed. Cost is $40/dog and covers the cost of the chukars and land use fee. THIS EVENT IS FULL.
Event of Interest: Rattlesnake Aversion Clinic, Scappoose, OR: Offered by the Pacific NW NAVHDA group, on Saturday Sept. 12, from 8:30 am till 4:30 pm. Cost is $65/dog. Registration and advance payment are required to hold your spot. Here is a link to the flyer for the event. For more info, contact: Paul Ecker at [email protected], 503-784-0193.
Event of Interest: Upland Training Workshop: Saturday, August 8, 2015 at 9 am, in Rochester, WA. Professional trainer R.J. Marquart is conducting a training workshop for Pointing Labs and their owners. Note: This announcement is posted solely as a service for folks who may be interested in attending and is not an endorsement of a particular trainer. Here’s video of the training workshop.
Club Training Day (water marks retrieving work): Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 12 noon, in Kalama, WA. Several puppies and older dogs participated in this water training day, doing single and double marks with bumpers and ducks. Here’s a video from that day.
Club Training Day (upland/water): Saturday, May 16, 2015, starting at 12 noon, at Intalco Unit, Whatcom Wildlife Area, near Ferndale, WA. We worked a little on water and land blinds, then spent the majority of the afternoon on upland work. Here are some photos of the day.
Club Training Day (upland): Saturday, March 21, 2105, starting at 9 am, at Scatter Creek Wildlife Area, NORTH, in Rochester, WA. Training day cost $15/member + cost of birds ($8/bird). Lunch provided (hot dogs, dessert, drinks). Discover Pass or WDFW Access Pass needed for parking. Here’s a video of the training day.
2014 EVENTS:
First Annual Club Hunt: Saturday-Sunday October 25-26, 2014 at Gateway Canyon Preserve in central Oregon. Pointing Lab enthusiasts came together for a two-day hunt for pheasant and chukar on over 1200 acres of prime upland habitat that includes a pond, varied terrain, and warm water to wash your dogs at the end of the day. Here’s a video of the weekend.
FALL APLA HUNT TEST: September 27-28, 2014 at Lord Hill Game Preserve in Monroe, WA. There were 18 total entries at all levels, with 9 CPR passes,1 APR pass, and 2 MPR titles. Here’s a video of the 2014 event.
Event of Interest: Rattlesnake Aversion Training: Saturday, Sept. 20, 2014, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm at Westend Kennels, 52745 E. Honeyman Rd, Scappoose, OR. Sponsored by Pacific Northwest Chapter of NAVHDA.
Event of Interest: Lower Columbia HRC Fall Festival: Saturday, September 13, 2014 at Columbia County Fairground, St. Helens, OR. Registration begins at 9:00 AM.
Mock Hunt Test Training: CANCELLED DUE TO EXCESSIVE HEAT. Saturday-Sunday, September 6-7, 2014 at Burlington Ranch in Chewelah, WA.
Club Training Day (water work): Sunday, July 27 at 1 pm, in Kalama, WA. We did water marks and blinds in this freshwater pond. Here’s a link to that day’s video.
Event of Interest: Upland Pointing Dog Clinic for Pointing Labs at Quicksilver Kennels: July 19-20, 2014 at Quicksilver Kennels in Moses Lake, WA. Instructor RJ Marquart, who has over 30 yrs of training pointing dogs of all breeds, is hosting a clinic that is an in-the-field hands on educational experience for both owner and dog. Learn the proper way to plant birds, use a checkcord, and introduce dogs to the bird, etc. Learn how to bring out the natural pointing ability in your Lab. Live birds will be used with every dog. Cost is $25 for dog/owner, birds included. For more information, contact R.J. Marquart at 509-765-1213, or e-mail [email protected].
Club Training Day (upland/water): CANCELED DUE TO EXCESSIVE HEAT. July 19-20, 2014 at SkyHigh Retrievers in Othello, WA. Starts at 9 am on Saturday. Club members will be able to work on upland pointing, land marks, water marks, blind manners, and lining drills with Mike Taylor. Cost for the weekend is $20/dog, with additional live pigeons available for purchase at $5 per bird. Saturday morning/early afternoon will focus on marking/retrieving and water work. Sunday morning will focus on pointing and upland work. People with trailers can park on site. For a list of motels near Othello, click here.
Event of Interest: Dog Training Seminar with John Greer: CANCELED. Saturday, June 28, 2014, Tiger Mountain Labs, Ellensburg, WA.
Club Training Day (water work): Sunday, June 8, 2014, starting at 2 pm until done, in Kalama, WA. We trained at a large, clear spring-fed freshwater pond, doing water work only. A small group today but lots of good work accomplished with blinds, bumpers, launchers, and a monster-sized duck. Here’s a video of the water day.
Club Training Weekend (upland work): Saturday-Sunday, May 17-18, 2014, at White River Outfitters in Tygh Valley, OR. We had a great turnout for our first annual Club Training Weekend, with 14 humans and 13 Pointing Labs (and several other non-pointing Labs), from 10 weeks to 10 years of age (the dogs, not the humans) who enjoyed extensive retrieving work, upland training on chukar and pheasant, clay target shooting, and fly fishing. The humans enjoyed great food, including burgers, breakfast, Paul’s pheasant chili, the Markel’s fiery homemade salsa, and Lily’s freshly baked cookies, muffins, and brownies. Here’s a video of our 2014 First Annual Club Training Weekend.
Club Training Day (upland work): Sunday, March 30, 2014, 10 am – 1 pm, Centralia, WA. We did retrieving/marking drills and upland work with pigeons. Watch our video of this training day.
Club Training Day: Sunday, February 2, 2014 (Super Seahawk Sunday), 10 am – 1 pm, Centralia, WA. Introduction to pointing.
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