I went to college for pre-veterinary medicine with the hopes of becoming a large animal vet. The majority of my educational career revolved around saving animals. Hunting was never something I grew up with or knew much about, but the concept of conservation and education was at the very core of my beliefs. At the time, I didn’t know how much hunting and conservation aligned.
My mother’s family is from northern Minnesota, so I had some exposure to the outdoor lifestyle. I always felt at home whenever we visited. Not just because they are amazing people, but because the outdoor lifestyle is such a peaceful way of life. I never really knew much about it, but I always aspired to try it.
My husband is who got me into hunting. He grew up with the lifestyle, and it is very clear to anyone who knows him that hunting and the outdoors are his passion as well. I always say I was born in the wrong place, because I never felt quite at home in the city. Let me be clear though, my immediate family back in Columbus are amazing, and they are the most fun people in my world. After college though, it was time for me to get out on my own, so I took a risk and moved out west. It was the best decision I ever made, and it brought me to my best friend. When I met Gary our souls connected through the outdoors. His knowledge and experience and my aspiration to learn that way of life made us partners. He taught me how to hunt the right way. I strongly say the right way because there is a right way to hunt, and it’s through ethics and ultimate respect for the animal. Being an animal ‘lover’ myself, it made perfect sense to me.
My hunting career is primarily centered around archery hunting. I was lucky to have someone like Gary to teach me the fundamentals of archery, but it was the challenge and close encounter game that sealed the deal for me. Hunting is not about the kill. That part is actually the least enjoyable part of the whole experience. It’s everything in between that makes it worth it. The scouting, trail camera pictures, continuous practicing and preparation, being outside, being in the animal’s element, to the harvest and end result – the most organic and pure source of meat on the planet. What I enjoy most about hunting is being outside in nature and seeing animals in their own environment undisturbed. If you do it well, you will have the most connected and authentic interactions. When my hard work comes down to the moment of truth, and it’s a successful and ethical shot, the sense of gratification is almost indescribable. The animals we harvest, we use for meat or selling the pelts. We don’t just hunt to hunt – we ultimately do something purposeful with the harvest. You will see and hear me always say the word harvest vs. kill. Yes, ending an animal’s life is part of hunting, but that animal means so much more than something no longer living. It provides life-giving food to us, and if taken ethically as a part of conservation, it provides sustainability to the natural world as well.
It is completely understandable that hunting is not for everyone, but I do believe that it should be shared and taught. My passion is to share with you that hunting is more than ‘killing’. If you enjoy hiking, boating, or pretty much any outdoor activity at a park, it is important to note that hunters and anglers help provide the funding to make your experience enjoyable, too. As outdoor advocates, we all have a common goal: to enjoy and protect nature. Hunting is truly conservation, and its purpose and meaning is all about the animal.
If you have interest in learning more about hunting or want to experience it with me, check out my educational videos where you learn the basics of hunting and how to harvest game safely and ethically.
Always respect and thank the game for their contribution to us and to the earth.
What an insightful and wee-thought out piece on hunting. Please do not let the numerous negative comments that I am certain will be coming change your mind. Some folks have never experienced hunting, but will certainly be willing to tell you how wrong it is.
Keep it up Jaime, I look forward to sharing more of your ideas and coaching.