Censored
Pursuing upland birds with dogs is a wonderful way to introduce newbies to hunting and help them build skills afield . An upland hunt allows conversation , instruction and constant camaraderie with fellow hunters , both two-legged and four-legged .
BRIAN LYNN
I took her aside and reassured her that it was OK that she had missed . That the weather didn ’ t matter . That this is where I wanted to be , this is where all the mentors wanted to be . We weren ’ t here to hunt ; we were here to help her succeed in hunting .
The following morning , we set out in the darkness . We checked field after field but the pronghorn were nowhere to be found . Just as we spotted a herd , the snow began to fall , hard and fast . In the short distance of the stalk the conditions turned into full-on snow globe . She picked out her buck , took a shot , and he fell in his tracks . We set up for a picture and wouldn ’ t you know , it was “ picture perfect ” with glistening snow surrounding her . We all gave her a big hug and when we look back at photos from that year , she is the only one with a beautiful snowy Wyoming postcard .
Every hunt is unique ; every hunter is unique . Every hunter has a different story of how he or she started the journey . Whether you were lucky enough to grow up in a hunting family or you are starting out on your own , know that there is a whole community who is supporting you and rooting you on ! In your own time , and in your own way , return that favor .
WINTER 2023 29