Macon Magazine

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 | maconmagazine.com 73 hunting rabbits with beagles," he said. "With the population growth now, the state's extended deer season and people buying up so much land for private deer hunting clubs, it's getting difficult to find good places to hunt small game. Thank goodness Georgia has land like Oaky Woods. In the long haul, there's no question it was a good purchase. It's a win-win with such a diversity of game and just to have it to get out and walk around on, to relieve some stress." Georgia's hunting and fishing seasons are observed at Oaky Woods but it is a year-long bear sanctuary — no exceptions. State one-day bear hunts never include Oaky Woods or the neighboring Ocmulgee WMA, just over in Twiggs County. How do hunters, hikers and others co-exist in the woods? Or, for that matter, people and black bears? "By using common sense and hunter safety," Trussell said. "There hasn't been an incident, though common sense may tell hikers that early morning hikes in peak hunting seasons may not be the best times. "As far as black bears, there's never been a bear attack in Georgia. There are sightings, yes, but unlike some other bears, black bears are shy and won't go out of their way to harm people. They go out of their way to avoid people. Of course, don't try to feed them or bother them — especially with their cubs. Don't do anything ridiculous like that. Really, it's rare to see one. They head the other way." Trussell often speaks to groups about Oaky Woods and remains involved. Besides "Saving Oaky Woods," he continues writing books on the outdoors, history and is an avid cyclist who was selected to write about Georgia in the Falcon Guide's series on bicycling routes. The book is called "Road Biking in Georgia: A Guide to the Greatest Bicycle Rides in Georgia" and like his other works, it's available on Amazon. Trussell also frequently contributes to the popular Georgia Outdoor News' website at gon.com. Until COVID-19 interrupted, Trussell led regular Oaky Woods walking tours and hopes to continue them in early Mon-Fri 10-6 p.m. • Sat 9-5 p.m. • Closed Sun FOR ALL YOUR FALL DECORATING NEEDS 3131 US-41, FORSYTH, GA 31029 • 478.808.0513 • 2022. Walks include wandering the many dirt roads and trails, taking note of wildlife and evidence of wildlife and exploring things like the remains of a one-time moonshine still. Then there's the historical oddity of Oaky Woods' no- longer-used fire tower. "It's interesting to see but unfortunately it's been vandalized, fallen into disrepair and not safe for the public to climb," he said. "That's a shame. I'd love to see it restored." LEARN MORE saveoakywoods.com georgiawildlife.com/oaky-woods-wma.

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