The familiar sound of honking has returned, signaling the arrival of spring and the goose hunt. According to the Nation’s findings, the first goose in the Cree communities was had April 6 by Jeff Ruperthouse of Washaw Sibi. It was given to Beatrice Trapper who prepared it and had a small feast with immediate family.
Matthew Swallow of Nemaska was next. He had a very Good Friday last April 9.
Sam Wesley bagged the first goose in Waskaganish around 11 am, April 13. There was only one goose about four kilometres from town that cloudy morning, which he got with one shot.
Norman Gilpin had the first of Eastmain April 15, while Michael Dixon and his friend Johnson Dixon had the first for Waswanipi at Windy Lake April 16, a warm, sunny day with a south wind blowing. The goose was given to Michael’s grandfather, the local tallyman, and a small feast of boiled goose with rice was had for the 18 people at the camp.
Albert Stephen of Wemindji, and Charlie Cox of Chisasibi got the first goose in their communities, both April 20. Don Macleod had the first in Mistissini and Claude St Pierre the first in OJ, dates unknown. Whapmagoostui is still waiting for their first, although the geese have been seen and heard.
