Went hog and deer hunting this weekend.
At several sites we threw corn out because we had seen signs of hogs in the area. At site 2 the next morning we came back and the entire area was torn up by the hogs. Excitement built for me and I decided to sit in that stand that morning. I didn't see anything so I got down at noon. When deciding what stand to sit in that afternoon I decided to go back to that same stand. I felt that if the hogs came there after we threw the corn out at 3 p.m. the previous day, that they had a routine and would come back to that same spot at the same time.
Turns out I was correct.
Right at dark, my friend had texted me to meet him at his truck. So I got down out of my stand. As soon as my feet touched the ground (literally), I heard them rushing into the area. Within 20 yards straight ahead of me, this massive hog came in and was grunting and growling. I ducked behind a tree and stood completely still, thinking omg omg omg. I can't even hardly type right now because I am shaking so hard just thinking of it. It all happened so fast, a million thoughts passed through my head in a matter of what had to be 30 seconds. The massive hog came in, I worked hard to calm myself and had thoughts of WOW that's a big maaaammmma, to I'm gonna shoot it, to not while on the ground, that's crazy! to wishing I had stayed in my stand just 5 more minutes!! AAAAAHHHHGGGGGHHH! Before I could change my mind again and decide to shoot it, it sent a warning grunt to the others and they ran out just as fast as they came in. HOLY SMOKES One hears stories about the rush you get, but one has to experience it firsthand. Indescribable.
What a great weekend. It's not just about the kill, it's also about the hunt. I am learning so much and I am so grateful.
Been there done that!
You understand and appreciate what was presented before you.
Congrats, I love it!
Thanks for sharing. Made me think back, my knees used to shake so bad I could hardly stand up when game was near. I have kinda lost that, but still get excited. You are right, it's not really about the kill. I often think hunting is just an excuse to spend time in the woods alone.
Elizabeth.... that is a feeling you cannot get while "hunting" with a camera or just sight seeing.
It is difficult to describe to someone who has never been there but I think it involves your entire body and being. I believe we are hard wired to experience this, it gets us ready for the chase and kill, from times long ago. In some, it just takes over, in others it is controllable. Many have said " when I stop feeling that I will stop hunting".
I am really glad you got that close and that you got to feel the feeling. Maybe next time will be the one.....
Shoot straight, but first pick a spot.
ChuckC
Lady Frost, good for you. It can/is exciting to be so close to wild animals that a lot of people will never experience. Cherish it the memories will last a life time.
Very excited for you. It's a feeling you'll experience again and again.
Awesome! Being around big hogs is really something else.
Kudos!
That's why we do it. Nothing like a good adrenaline rush.
The breath taking exhilarating thrill of the hunt.
Wish you many more...
Yep! And with trad gear, that high level excitement NEVER goes away!!!
Good luck on your next hunt!
Bisch
:thumbsup: It just gets better.......
Heck Yea!!! That's what it's all about right there!!! Hogs have a way of getting in your blood to the point they'll almost drive you crazy sometimes. I guess that's true with all game!! Congrats on a great encounter and wish you many many more!!!
Heck Yea!!! That's what it's all about right there!!!
Sounds fun! Maybe next time will work out even better.
Way to go, Liz!!!!! I'm so glad that I got to be a starting part, of this amazing journey you have been on...!! I have been watching, and following your journey and it makes me smile!!! You have come far! But, the journey is FAR from over...
May The Great One, Shine Upon You, my Little Sister!
Congrats on that experience!
I've hunted hogs only one time. I'll never forget when the big boar looked over at my blind. He looked so "smart" I figured he could do my taxes for me.
I shot him the second time he came in.
Atta'gurl
Tim
Liz, now you know all there is to know a bout buck fever! I wish you had got the shot, but at least you had a very positive experience. Keep at it, and the shot will come. we will expect pictures when it happens. Good to hear from you.
Sometimes the wild hog will run you back up the tree...the hard way. Start working your plan for that....
Fun, ain't it?
That feeling never gets old!!
awesome
Good stuff Elizabeth. I am happy you were able to experience that on your first hunt. hers to many more... :coffee:
Your hooked now,Liz !
Congrats on your first encounter!
That's what it's all about :thumbsup:
1st of MANY - what a blessing - very cool
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My son Jesse asked me once if that feeling ever goes away , my reply was " I hope not".
Congratulations now you know what its all about.
Great to hear Liz, and well written. And your first season hunting, to boot! Always good to hear about your journey.
Congrats hope you connect soon!
Thanks everyone!! Been so busy, between work and hunting, and just outdoor activity in general!! Yeah, Russ, I stayed close to that stand just in case!!! Hahahahaha!! Got another taste of that adrenaline a couple of weekends ago. My buddy was hunting in his stand across the field from me and had his binos, and as soon as I felt my phone buzz I knew to be on alert!! Instant rush, heart racing, had to work to calm down-had 2 deer come within 30 yards of me, but again, wasn't a good shot, so I didn't take it, but had an absolute blast!! I will be patient, my time for a deer will come! Just got back from the mountains, next trip will be in January to hog hunt!! Can't wait!! My life continues to move and I am still enjoying every moment!! WOO! YEEEHAW!! LOL
Chuck, you've put it in a nutshell. It's a feeling only we, who choose to hunt with these "primitive" sticks and strings, and whose intent is to kill a wild animal at distances of mere feet, will ever get to experience. I'm almost 73 and still get excited when only does show up. A truly mystical event. I really feel sorry for those who never will.
Way to go girl. Hope the feeling never leaves you.
Way to go girl.
Good Luck next hunt LF!
Deno
Congratulations on the experience! Maybe next time......
"wasn't a good shot, so I didn't take it"
Way to go Liz! You will do well!
:campfire: congrats on your journey!
LF, too cool! You have officially experienced "the rush" and I guarantee you will be back for more!
My sister in law has killed 3 bucks in 3 years. After the first one she was hooked
Hi, Liz! It is good to read that you are still having these positive hunting experiences. Pretty soon we'll be seeing the hero pics from you. I look forward to seeing you at some of the TBG shoots this spring. I hope you all had a very nice Christmas.
That's what it is all about. You are hooked now!
When my knees stop shaking, I'll quit.
Congrats, Frosty! Now wait till you get to drop that string the first time at something up close and personal.
:thumbsup: