In life, we often gravitate toward what we know and feel comfortable doing. Hunting is no exception. I was fortunate to grow up in a state that offered over-the-counter (OTC) archery mule deer and elk tags. Every year, I knew I would have the opportunity to chase these incredible animals across Eastern Oregon with a bow in hand. I didn’t know any different. I wasn’t exposed to the idea of hunting out of state or beyond North America, simply because no one had introduced me to those other possibilities.
It wasn’t until my early twenties that my perspective shifted. I began to realize that everyday hunters, people just like me, had the ability to explore not only different states but also different countries in pursuit of wild experiences and incredible species. That realization opened up an entirely new world of hunting for me, one that has since transformed the way I approach my trips.
At Huntin’ Fool, I know with absolute certainty that I will talk about mule deer and elk with our members every single day. And for good reason, we started as a resource for western hunting almost 30 years ago and still are experts in unit selections, tag acquisition, and outfitters. However, as I’ve grown both as a hunter and as a person, I’ve discovered that there is so much more to experience beyond the species I was raised hunting. Expanding my focus has refined my hunting skills and given me a clearer understanding of what I truly want out of my time in the field.
I know what to expect when I’m hunting deer and elk, but that hasn’t been the case with many of the hunts I’ve taken outside my comfort zone. The first time I went to Alaska, I had no idea what I was getting into. I was a nervous wreck, worried about flights, lost luggage, bad weather, and everything in between. But that trip taught me an invaluable lesson: I can only control the controllable. When things go wrong, and they inevitably will, patience and adaptability are the keys to making the most of the experience. The last handful of trips have been much more enjoyable when I just go along for the ride and remember that I am supposed to be having fun!
Every day, we talk with hunters who dream of pursuing different species but haven’t had the options laid out for them. That’s where we come in. Huntin’ Fool Adventures works with outfitters across the globe, offering hunts for virtually every species a hunter could dream of. The best part? Man of these hunts are far more financially attainable than most people realize.
Over the past several years, I’ve made it a goal to hunt at least one new species annually. Muskox, oryx, moose, mountain lion, and caribou are just a few I’ve had the privilege of pursuing. These experiences have not only taken me to some of the most beautiful places on Earth but have also introduced me to friendships that will last a lifetime.
At Huntin’ Fool, we strive to be goal-oriented, strategic, creative, and honest. Our mission is to help our members find the adventure they’re looking for, whether that’s a traditional deer or elk hunt or something entirely new. I have yet to hunt a species that I wouldn’t want to pursue again, and that’s what keeps me exploring. New species, new locations, and new experiences.
If you’ve ever considered stepping outside of your comfort zone, I encourage you to do it. The opportunities are endless, and the rewards are beyond what you can imagine.