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
Derek Randle
Derek's extensive background in retriever training started with his co-ownership of War Eagle Retrievers, after which he designed and developed the first retriever training facility and lodge – The Retriever Academy, located in Miami Oklahoma. Through training and handling, Derek has achieved a multitude of the highest honours in the AKC,...
Ashley Hopkins
Ashley started hunting in his early childhood years with his dad and grandad. At the age of 15 he began competing in the United Kennel Club (UKC) and Professional Kennel Club (PKC) hunting associations. Ashley has racked up quite a few titles in his hunting career. Included among those are four Final Four...
Mike Simmons
Mike's been training dogs for a bunch of years and's competed with his own dogs in UKC and AKC hunt tests. Plus, he trains client dogs for both gun dog (duck hunting) and all levels of hunt tests, UKC and AKC included. He's also an HRC AA licensed judge in...
