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Just a simple question? Does harvesting or not harvesting a deer define your season as a hunter?? Are your Fall seasons consumed by chasing whitetails?
My seasons success used to be defined by how many or how big of a buck I took. Not anymore. Sure I love venison and usually I'm able to fill the freezer but as a whole it doesn't make or break my season. As I grow older, perspective changes. I get more enjoyment out of mentoring my kids and seeing them harvest game than I do myself. one on one time is priceless!!
On top of that we have so many additional opportunities that deer season is becoming just another phase of the year round hunting. Predator hunting, for anyone who hasn't tried, has given me a new found addiction. the first time I had a pair of yotes barreling up a logging road made my knees shake as much as any buck ever has!! Spring turkey comes in a close second in adrenaline rushes!!
I guess what I'm getting at is this, deer hunting is changing in this state, we all see that. But with so many other outdoor activities to pursue, no longer does my success hinge upon deer season. Go back to the basics for a bit. Take an afternoon and hunt squirrels, or chase bunnies, its amazing what is can do to brighten a season.
My seasons success used to be defined by how many or how big of a buck I took. Not anymore. Sure I love venison and usually I'm able to fill the freezer but as a whole it doesn't make or break my season. As I grow older, perspective changes. I get more enjoyment out of mentoring my kids and seeing them harvest game than I do myself. one on one time is priceless!!
On top of that we have so many additional opportunities that deer season is becoming just another phase of the year round hunting. Predator hunting, for anyone who hasn't tried, has given me a new found addiction. the first time I had a pair of yotes barreling up a logging road made my knees shake as much as any buck ever has!! Spring turkey comes in a close second in adrenaline rushes!!
I guess what I'm getting at is this, deer hunting is changing in this state, we all see that. But with so many other outdoor activities to pursue, no longer does my success hinge upon deer season. Go back to the basics for a bit. Take an afternoon and hunt squirrels, or chase bunnies, its amazing what is can do to brighten a season.