We are very excited to be a part of Nick taking his first big game animal and the opportunity to mentor him in the outdoors. Nick is an incredible young man and so deserving of this experience, not to mention any success he has in life going forward. Although this is not Nick’s ‘dream’ hunt per se, we decided to take a break from his special elk hunt and put some tasty Blacktail meat in his freezer, not to mention get his first big game animal under his belt. When the opportunity came on his second sit in the blind, Nick made a perfect shot and the buck only went 40 yards before going down. Nick’s ability to keep his composure was impressive despite the flood of adrenaline and excitement. 

Nick asked if we would teach him how to butcher, trim and package the deer so that he could be prepared to do the same himself down the road. So of course that is what we did! We spent a day after school processing and vacuum sealing his animal so that it’s ready for the kitchen and many great meals for his mom and brother. 

Next month we can’t wait to get Nick back out hunting elk. During the 6 days we spent elk hunting in October, we had many close encounters, but the perfect shot opportunity eluded us. I have full confidence Nick will be standing over his first elk very soon!