Back in November 2018 I decided I wanted to go Elk Hunting in 2020. That gave me nearly two years to get ready; loose weight, get into shape, get proficient at archery, re-learn how to ride horses, collect all the equipment needed, pick and scout the place to hunt.
I had great ambitions in the beginning, but there were an amazing number of road blocks, speed bumps and pitfalls along the way. The biggest being the COVID-19 pandemic; then there were riots; the financial downturn; body injuries, shin splints, knee, shoulder, hip and back issues; and surgeries.
There were bright spots: we got our lottery choice as non-residents; found what we think will be amazing broadheads, that shoot like field points; I purchased a new pair of gloves to replace my 14 year old hunting gloves.
“We hadn’t been Elk Hunting for 10 years. We knew it will be a challenge.”
Two years seemed like a long time away, but here we are less than 75 days away and I’m no where near prepared as I would like to be.
I imaged that I would be hiking around a few miles in the hilly areas near the river with a full pack; practicing with my bow every other day and drawing close to 60lbs. Instead: I can walk about four to five miles on rolling ground without a pack; I’ve agitated my shoulder so I can only practice about 5 sets of 5 every third to fifth day; my draw is still around 50 lbs, but I don’t want to increase the draw for fear of really injuring my shoulder.
And the equipment! Cooking and eating systems along with the food. We need to set up the tents and see if they need any repair or maintenance. I know we need different cots, because the ones we have are too heavy to pack out with horses into the wilderness. I when loose more weight, I’ll need to purchase new hunting clothes. And the tech we’re bringing; sat phone, cell phone, power charger and solar panels, heater, lights, e-Maps.
I’m stressing out a little bit; feeling a bit overwhelmed. It’s not just the Elk Hunt that’s stressing me, but it’s an easy target for my angst.
I’m hoping writing down what’s going through my head will help and just this little bit of writing is relaxing.