Hunting
Hunting
Whether you are young or old, in top physical form or fighting a few pounds left over from the holidays, live in the wilds of Alaska or the swamps of the south, few things can bring people and cultures together like hunting. There is historic evidence that hunting was most likely the very first ‘sport’, although it originally evolved out of necessity for the survival of man. While it is assumed that primitive hunters stalked their quarry donning not much more than a handmade spear and a loincloth, today’s hunter outfits himself with the latest in camouflage and high tech gadgets, adding to both his own comfort and his chances for success out in the field. Whether you use the newest compound bow or consider yourself a purist in remaining loyal to your recurve, one thing is common throughout today’s sporting world: today’s hunter has an abundance of respect for land and our natural resources.
If you are new to hunting or think it may be something you’d like to try, you may not be aware of the many benefits that result. For instance, the money that is paid into hunting & fishing licenses goes toward aiding state programs in their efforts to buy back land, conduct environmental research and manage the herds. What many hunters may not realize is that they are effectively helping manage herds and the possibility of overpopulation when they harvest game from an area. Keeping the numbers in check will provide the best possible scenario for healthy herds and even better hunting in subsequent years. When you make the decision to hunt, you embark on an endeavor that will not only put a natural, healthy meal on the table for your family, but you’re committing to a day of great exercise for yourself as well. While it may seem like a leisurely walk in the woods as you head to your tree stand or blind, you are most likely hauling some gear on your back and going over some terrain that offers some unique challenges. More so, if you are fortunate enough to harvest a deer, for instance, you have the task of field dressing your trophy or choosing to haul it out ‘as is’, with their option still being an exercise in and of itself.
Hunting provides not only physical exercise for the hunter, but psychological benefits as well; there is nothing like a quiet walk in the woods on a crisp Fall morning as the sun is barely rising to clear your mind and turn your thoughts to the wonders of nature. Deciding where and when to hunt provides mental exercise which will soon enough be tested as that glorious 12-pointer crests over the nearby ridge and while your heart may be pounding and anxious to take the buck as efficiently as possible, your brain reminds you that in this face off, patience is the name of the game. If you’ve never experienced the challenge of forcing yourself to move slowly and simultaneously fly through the possible scenarios in your head as the buck lifts his head, taking in the frosty air in search of danger, ask any hunter what goes through his head and he would probably tell you that it’s too much to even explain… he’s thinking about holding still, waiting for his ideal shot, hoping his presence is going unnoticed, already establishing a game plan for what his next move will be if he misses.
There is a great sense of camaraderie amongst hunters. Pull into any state land parking area during hunting season and you can expect to hear a fair share of stories being swapped, audible slaps on the back and hearty congratulations being expressed. Groups of hunters will relive their day multiple times for those that will listen, recounting the exciting details with a proud grin. Few things are as satisfying as knowing that the sport you enjoy has the potential to yield food on the table for your family and friends.
