Hunters need to adapt, evolve, and grow as they hunt through a lifetime of seasons. The best part about hunting is that the learning never ends.
What hunters lack as beginners, they make up for with enthusiasm. Younger, healthy bodies mean that they can hunt harder, higher, and longer. They may not be hunting smarter, but they can successfully hunt within their limitations.
New and older hunters measure success differently. A new hunter hopes to fill a tag or get a limit. Next, they hope to repeat this challenge. Once they have had a taste of success, they hope for a BIG critter to fill their tags. Once this has happened hunters search for a specific critter. After fulfilling these steps in evolution, the hunter celebrates the joy and experience of the hunt and sharing their skills with others.
Rarely do you find OLD HUNTERS in the most remote places. After a lifetime of wear and tears on their bodies, things must change. Muscles have been stressed, bones broken, joints wear out, and health issues result with aging. Once active and aggressive hunters become reliant on modifications to stay afield.
Old Hunters have many miles on their fragile human bodies. What worries us is what do we do if we tag a big critter. How do we get it out? What if we hunt alone and have an accident? Not every area has cell service. Hunting is dangerous when bears and lions are in the woods too.
Long distances become shorter
Vehicle support is required
Solo hunting is not smart
Great gear can help
Better scouting or tags are needed
With support from technology, vehicles, and companions, Veteran Hunters can stay in the game. We still have our learned skills and shooting abilities. Experienced hunters often have the best gear and can afford to buy what they need or use an outfitter, guide, or other luxury.
Veteran Hunters measure success by being able to hunt. Getting afield is wonderful even if we can’t trek as far, up the steeper hills, or move as quickly. The campfires and companionship make up for the hardships. Sunrises and sunsets somehow seem more beautiful as we age.
One thing is for sure; every year, season, and hunt is one less in our lifetime. Cherish them all while you still can. If you know of an older, more challenged hunter, invite them to accompany you. You may need to modify and make accommodation but the lessons, stories, tips and tricks that you will learn are priceless and well worth the efforts.
Hunt hard, hunt harder, hunt longer!
Montana Grant
