Hits and misses to remember

In the world of hunting, every outdoorsman carries a trove of stories that reflect the highs and lows of their experiences. At an event held recently, a group of seasoned hunters, including the renowned Larry Weishuhn, shared their memorable moments of triumphs and disappointments. Weishuhn recounted an impressive tale of perseverance and skill during a mule deer hunt where an 800-yard shot on a Coues deer buck was made at the second attempt. Although he emphasized that such distances require profound practice and confidence, he assured everyone that he was prepared, reinforced by his reliability on quality Hornady ammunition. Weishuhn's experiences highlight the unpredictability of hunting, where even the most skilled can falter under pressure. He recalled another instance where he missed a buck just 20 yards away after an exhilarating antler rattling session. Spare no doubt, the excitement of the huntparticularly when it comes to rattlingcan be overwhelming. As Larry himself put it, I just got rattled when he came charging out of the brush. Reflecting on early memories of hunting, I recalled my first impressive shot at an armadillo as a child. With a single-shot J.C. Higgins .22 in hand, my father and I crept up on the unsuspecting creature. My timing was impeccablesqueezing the trigger just as the armadillo bolted for cover. The success of this shots built my confidence early on and became a fond anecdote I shared at campfires for years to come. Fast-forwarding to later years, I underwent rifle training thanks to Marine Corps boot camp, honing my skills and discovering the difference between luck and skill. Yet, the thrill of hunting lies not just in the successful shots but also in the contrived misses that can turn into engaging tales around the fire, transcending mere memories into shared experiences. One such memorable hunt occurred in the scenic landscapes of East Texas, where I aimed to procure a few squirrels for dinner with my friend Jeff Rice. Our limited arsenal consisted of deer rifles, prompting us to recall Jeff's trusty .22 revolver. The hunt evolved into a wonderfully humorous yet challenging experience, as we attempted to snipe squirrels with a handgun amidst the barren winter foliage. Although not every shot hit its mark, we succeeded in gathering enough for a delightful dinner, demonstrating that creativity and adaptability are as crucial in hunting as the equipment used. A favorite campfire story comes from a desert mule deer hunt in the Trans Pecos region of West Texas. Here, I received a crash course in the discrepancies of proper muzzleloader responsibilities after I realized too late that half the gunpowder was missing during loading. The cacophony that followed was a far cry from the desired roar of successa lesson in preparation that still echoes in my mind. Thankfully, a follow-up shot under correct loading brought down an impressively sized mule deer, demonstrating that successful outcomes can emerge even from less-than-ideal starts. On the broader horizon of Texas hunting, current reports suggest promising prospects for the upcoming duck hunting season. Recent rains have favorably augmented habitat conditions, and the arrival of early teal adds to the anticipation among hunters. Coastal marshes and rice fields are expected to flourish due to improving aquatic vegetation, while inland water sources become progressively attractive to ducks. It is essential for hunters to ensure compliance with regulations, including valid licenses and stamps for the 2025-2026 season. As these hunting seasons welcome enthusiastic participants keen to embrace the thrill of the chase, its imperative to remain vigilant and prepared, doubling down on safety and sustainability. The shared stories of achievements and misses, however, transcend individual experiences; they become collective narratives that bind hunting communities together, fostering respect for wildlife and heritage. As we reflect on the tales of hits and misses, it's evident that every storytriumphant or failedcarries valuable lessons. From honing skills with proper ammunition to relying on seasoned equipment, the journey toward becoming a skilled marksman is paved with profound experiences that enrich our perception of hunting. Early reports suggest a favorable hunting season ahead, but we must acknowledge that every session is unique, and preparation remains key. The upcoming duck season indicates healthy ecological conditions, while deer hunts beckon nostalgic stories around campfires. Whether celebrating successes or lamenting misses, every encounter shapes our relationship with nature. As we gear up for another hunting season, lets remain respectful of our responsibility in sustainable stewardship, ensuring the culture of hunting prevails for generations to come.