Matt Mates
Saint Johns, MI
Background
I've hunted upland game birds from North Dakota to Northern Maine, spending most of me time in me home state of Michigan. Me love for pheasants dates back to me days as a youngster, first chasing 'em with our Labradors, German Shorthaired Pointers, or the odd chance while running beagles in the winter. But, the ruffed grouse is king, and I currently raise and train me English pointers with that pursuit in mind. I spend heaps of me time training here in Michigan, but also spend about 4 weeks a year in Maine doing the same.
I'm an amateur bird dog trainer and enjoy helping newbies with their training questions. I'll happily spend me time afield with any well-behaved bird dog, but particularly value the drive and style of me English pointers.
I find it important to introduce new people to the sport, conservation of our resources, and getting 'em to experience the joy of hunting with well-trained pointing dogs. I serve on the board and banquet committee of the Andy Ammann Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society. I also field trial from time to time and really enjoy judging as well. I'm a graduate of Siena Heights University with a degree in Public Safety and Behavioral Science. Aside from me outdoor pursuits, I take a great deal of pride in doing me bit to keep Michigan's citizens safe.
Why I Use SportDOG Brand
I've been using SportDOG products since they've been available and have had a tremendously positive experience from the start. The combination of practical and reliable gear coupled with unmatched customer service is what makes me proud to represent SportDOG.
Favourite Products
UplandHunter™ 1875.
Other Senior Prostaff
Ethan Kimmince
Ethan began his career in the zoo-keeping industry, spending nine years as a tiger handler at Australia Zoo. His expertise extends beyond big cats, having worked in Canada with bears, wolves, and cougars. After leaving the zoo world, he founded Wolf Within Dog Training, applying his deep understanding of animal behaviour, operant conditioning, and training science. In just five years, Wolf Within has become one of Queensland’s top-rated dog training companies, renowned for helping owners build stronger, more harmonious relationships with their beloved pets.
Chris Anders
Chris has 12 years of dog training experience and over 20 years of combined retriever training and hunting experience. He mostly works with Labradors, Goldens, Chessies, Spaniels, and a few pointing breeds. He's a member of the Professional Retriever Trainers Association, Hunting Retriever Club, Delta Waterfowl, and Ducks Unlimited.
Baker McCool
Baker comes from a long background of fishing and duck hunting, having grown up in the flyway in West Tennessee. He's a Delta Waterfowl committee member and West Tennessee HRC Vice President, and has competed in Super Retriever Series as an amateur. His dog Stella has qualified in...
