Well to say its been a long season would probably be an understatement. After drawing a special bull elk permit, I spent a lot of time in the field this year looking for that special bull. I saw a lot of great bulls throughout the season, and came close to punching my tag several times on great bulls but could never seem to put two and two together. Then on Nov. 20th my father passed away, so I was unable to get out into the field during the last couple of weeks of the season due to spending time with him in his last few days. I finally made myself hunt on the last day of the season, even though my enthusiasm was nearly gone, and filled my tag on this bull. Granted he is not a monster bull, but he will forever be the bull that I can remember as my fathers "memorial" bull. My father was such a great outdoorsman, and taught me so much during our several time's out in the field, either hunting, hiking, camping or fishing. My hunts from now on just won't quite be the same knowing that my dad is not here anymore to share the joys of success, and frustrations of coming close, but not close enough. From now on it will be my turn to pass on the knowledge to my children, just as my father did with me, and if I can do half the job he did then I think that would be a good start. This season has truly made me re-focus on what is important in my life, and I can never fully thank my father enough for the valuable life lessons he taught me during his lifetime. I hope that everyone has a wonderful holiday season, and don't forget to take time out of your schedule to visit the ones you love.
