the hunts (not for the faint hearted)

We purposely choose fall to visit Idaho every year so we can spend time doing one of our great family traditions- hunting. I grew up going bird hunting with my dad and brother every year. I wouldn't trade any of the moments spent freezing in water up to my thighs waiting for ducks, or dripping with sweat as I climbed up a rocky ridge looking for chukars for anything. Every year we renew our love of the great out doors and our family by hunting in Idaho, and of course Rhone comes too.

We made it in time for Sharptail opening morning. Our dog, Ace, did a great job and even I got a bird.

Rhone waiting by the truck for everyone to get ready

Ben and Rhone during the hunt

The views are amazing, it's one of the reasons I love hunting.

Olin and a pile of Sharptail grouse.



Ben and his brother Erich met for a day of Sage Grouse hunting too.

This year Ben added deer hunting to the trip. It has been years (since we actually lived in Idaho) since he has been big game hunting. Ben, my dad, and brother all filled their tags opening morning. There were two 4 points and one 3 x 4. Then followed 3 days of cleaning, cutting, marinating, and smoking meat. We made some delicious deer jerky, but it was a LOT of work. I will stick to my bird hunting, all the enjoyment and a lot less work.

Ben sent this photo to my phone.

My mom and I loaded Rhone and Olin into the old International Scout so we could see the deer. They are such cute hunters.

Ben and Rhone with the deer

Brock and Ben with their deer (they were already cleaned by the time we made it to the mountain).
Rhone on the Scout

All three bucks skinned and curing. The tractor really came in handy.

Ben and I quartering one of the deer. He can never say that I didn't help.

Rhone helped mix the jerky marinade

....and sprayed the racks....

...and we filled and filled racks with meat......



....until we had a smoker full of free range, organic venison :)

A special thanks goes out to my Dad for being an amazing guide!