I posted a note and a picture in the shooters bench about the trip and the fact that my two oldest daughters joined me on the trip to Wright, WY to hunt the Durham Ranch with Gregg Richter. Needless to say, the hunt was more about my kids hunting and passing on the tradition that is very important for our future, and selfishly speaking, to spend as much time as I could with them. They grow up fast and time with them is at the top of the list for sure.
So, after the girls kept Gregg, Joe and I in stitches and wondering where all the energy and patience comes from, it was time for me to hunt. I armed myself with my Encore in .308 loaded with factory Hornady 165 SST ammo and the search for a whopper was on. No kidding, we found one in the first pasture we came to. It was too soon as it was my first stalk this year with a handgun, and I forgot sticks. Tough to hold steady, but I was too far gone to go back to get them, so I pushed on. I made it to about 50 yards, but a hump kept me from seeing the buck before a wise old doe caught me and the gig was up. Enter whatever explicitive you want cause I probably said it in rapid succession. Ugh!
We were able to find the buck again but couldn't put it together before it got dark. Needless to say, I had grand dreams of where to put the big buck on the wall.
Monday morning rolls around and I'm ready to go, but someone forgot to tell the man upstairs that I needed sunshine and no wind. We went from 50-ish and mild winds to 32 degrees and 40 MPH winds with snow blowing straight sideways. Not a good thing when I have only till noon to close the deal (kids needed to be back in school Tuesday). Needless to say, it was tough, but Gregg's patience came through and we pushed on. 11:40 and we see the only antelope of the day. Borderline anti-climatic, I was able to get to within 160 yards after a short stalk, played the wind, and the shot found home. The kids didn't get to see it as they were packing up the room, but were very excited when I called. They are truly great kids. Anyway, my buck and the turds looking into the wind and snow.
I want to send along special thanks to Gregg and Joe. I walk away with new friends and what more can a guy ask for. I am glad that I was able to share this very special time with you and I cannot put into words how important it was to me. Thank you.
Also to the Durham Ranch for allowing my family to enjoy the wonderful place that you call home. A special thanks to Sharky especially for his hospitality.
Thank you to Ernie Bishop for opening his house to my kids and I. I will call you soon as I wish to pick your brain.
Lastly, to HHM. I have an official addiction thanks in part to this place and its many members. Thank you and God Bless you all.
