We are doing the snowbird thing right now, and where we are is some of the nicest desert country around. Love the look of the Sonoran desert; lots of saguaros and other stuff that will stick you if you give it half a chance. Stump shooting is hard on arrows if you aren't careful, but wandering the desert, bow in hand, is a great time. This country is extremely rugged, and is a great workout. Just be careful when stumping, and pick a target that isn't solid rock.
(http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac67/peastes/GOPR0240_zpsf5af7db3.jpg)
Mormon tea plants make for pretty good targets; they usually grow in soil that is a bit less rocky, so your arrows may get a reprieve.
(http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac67/peastes/GOPR0246_zpsc3549df0.jpg)
It is cool enough now that you don't have to worry about snakes; once it gets a bit warmer, I will be watching my step to avoid the western diamondbacks that are thick around here.
It is a harsh but wonderful place, and it is great to be here rather than putting up with the Wyoming winter for a while.
Good stuff! Like seeing different parts of the country
Eric
Beautiful country.
Looks like a nice place to lose your thoughts of the winter storms and such. To take a walk in someone else's backyard so to speak, looks like a fun day , for sure. Don't worry if an occasional arrow gets bruised,you will find time to make more when you get home. Thanks for the photos,good to look at , it is -42 with wind chill here today. Have fun ! Maxx
Beautiful, looks like a great way to spend the day!
Oops double post, but I will add I would love the opportunity to see the desert with bow in hand some day.
Beautiful country and great weather in the winter.
Centaur, are you allowed by AZ law to pack around a handgun with you while stumping?
What's been your past experience in encountering any two-legged varmits? Home grown or south-of -the-border types?
Been there, done that. Jealous!! Looks like you had great fun. Planning on going back this December...
Blackhawk, Arizona is an open carry state, and I pack, either open or concealed (I have a CCW from Wyoming, and it is reciprocal).
So far, no problemas with the varmints.
Looks like you're having fun Pat. Thanks for the pics. It sure looks warm :)
That Hill bow is getting to be pretty well traveled. Looks like you are enjoying it. That's cool bud!
Thanks for the pictures,..Nice to get away and enjoy a different landscape..
Nibblin' on sponge cake. Watchin' the sun bake...
Thanks for the pics, looks fun.
Pat, I am sitting here with 5" of fresh powder (kind from the sky!) anticipating 4" more and I see THESE photos.....not cool! I would love to be stumping there with you! That is a different bow than I have seen you with before, did I miss the post where you introduced her? I love the looks of those ol' D longbows. Fits that country well! Enjoy your winter vacation!!
Looks awesome ! my first bowhunting adventures were in the desert around Tuscon 35 years ago , chasing cottontails, jack rabbits and quail, pics brought back some great memories. Need to get back there someday
This morning's hike/stump shoot.....
(http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac67/peastes/P1030064_zpsc530c1ff.jpg)
(http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac67/peastes/P1030065_zps3ce4ec33.jpg)
It's a dirty job, but somebody has to do it. I don't miss the snow all that much right about now.
Was this in Tucson? Is the last 2 pics taken close to Mt. Lemon?
Not Tucson; not too far from Superior.
Great pictures, thanks for sharing. :thumbsup:
Beautiful! What I wouldn't give for sunshine and warmth to shoot in right now!