Hunting isn't just something I do, it's part of who I am.
Dear Bow Hunter,
I got to take a first hand look at who you are, spending 5 days at elk camp with you. And boy did I learn a lot about who you are.
I learned that to "get on" elk you have to scale rocks that should require special shoes with spikes, climb mountains like an animal, and put many miles on your feet, all day long.
I learned that watching a 6 point bull elk come into a meadow and saunter towards you at 150 yards will make your heart pound in your ear.
I learned that standing on top of the mountain listening to at least 5 bull elk bugling at the bottom of the mountain will take your breath away.
I learned that standing in the timber 60 yards below a bull elk without a shot because of the trees will leave you feeling fristrared, but thirsty for more.
I learned that standing in the timber and seeing only horns walking in front of you at 40 yards makes you wish there were no trees there, but appreciative of that moment.
I learned that elk smell horribly strong, but that doesn't mean you'll see them.
I learned the many different textures of elk poop, and how many hours or days old if might be depending on texture.
I learned that you still love me like the day you met me. It was easy for you to just be you, in your favorite place with no distractions.
I learned I can live 5 days without my nuggets, I miss them but I can live.
I learned I can go 5 days without an iPhone. iPad, email, Facebook, Instagram. And I should do it more often.
I learned that an elk can be standing right in front of you, but you still may not have a shot.
I learned that bow huntkng is an extreme sport. I learned this as I scaled down the mountain with my bow in one hand and an arrow nocked, ready to go. I learned this as I scaled down a mountain and accidentally kicked a rock which then fell all the way to the bottom of the mountain. I learned this as we sat at 7000 feet for 4 hours waiting until prime time to go after the elk. I learned this as we hiked 4, 5, 8 miles and didn't see one animal. I learned this as we stood on top of boulders and wondered how we would get down.
I learned this sport is your passion. The wall tent is where you find yourself. The top of the mountain is where you connect with your Dad, seeing him in many places. I learned you have a story for every square inch of those mountains. I learned you work hard, hammering those mountains and chasing those elk from wake to sleep, never taking a break.
I learned that this is a way of life, a way that will be shown to our kids. Something we will do as a family. Something our kids will teach their kids.
I learned that I can go 5 days without a shower but it's probably one of the most disgusting things ever.
I learned that I will never worry about you finding a lady on the mountain, as you are far too stinky.
I learned that there is something magical about hearing a rainstorm hit the top of the wall tent, and then suiting up and hunting in that storm.
I learned that you can change a flat tire like a pro, and I'm glad I have you on speed dial.
I learned we still have so much in common, a great love for the outdoors and the top of the mountain.
Thank you for showing me your passion.
Love,
Your Hunting Buddy.
