I'm still hunting, but as I look back over the bulk of the season one thing that I always enjoy is getting together with good friends, chasing deer and making memories. Back in November I teamed up with North American Hunting Club executive director Bill Miller and freelance video photographer Ernie Lanthier for a whitetail hunt. We were guests of Pat West and Fred Lamphere at Dakota Ranch Outfitters.
It's always great to hunt with Bill. Not only does his relaxed candor and attitude rub off on you creating an enjoyable atmosphere, but I always enjoy the updates on the club from an inside perspective.
As for Ernie, him and I have spent enough time chasing critters together that it's as if he reads my mind on my next move and prepares to film whatever is about to occur. That's exactly what happened on our hunt.
While sneaking into bedding cover a hot doe with a buck in tow surprised us. Bill spotted them first and prepared for the shot. Ernie was rolling in seconds, but for some reason I found my vision obscured by a giant cottonwood.
Bill rolled into action and with a nod from Ernie finished the hunt. As we walked up on the buck we all were happy. Bill had bagged a nice buck, Ernie captured the entire adventure on video and I had a front-row seat, but with a somewhat blocked view.
Nevertheless we all shared a great hunt, some camp laughs and added another episode to the North American TV lineup for 2011.
Yep, he's a shooter all right, now that the cottonwood isn't blocking my view.