Shh... We're Hunting Rabbits. In a Group.

Okay, so we aren't really hunting rabbits. But we do usually hunt in a group... for big game. The way I see it there are advantages to both hunting solo and hunting in group.

There are days I prefer to just hunt on my own and days I also enjoy hunting with my friends. And since one of those friends happens to be my husband, that just makes it a bonus. After all, what better way to pass the afternoon than chilling in an abandoned barn with your better half while waiting for antelope to visit a nearby watering hole?

As I'm sitting here thinking about it, I thought I would just add my reflections on the pros and cons of hunting single or hunting in a group. (I should really be packing right now for my elk hunt.)

Advantages of hunting solo:

• There is no one to blame but yourself when the hunt goes poorly. The bull/buck you've been stalking sniffs you out or sees a wrong move you've made. Yep, your fault and no one else.
• If you decide to take a nap in the field - no problem. There is no one to stop you.
• If you want to be quiet and simply wait, it is up to you.
• If you want to try and be super sneaky and try out your stalking skills, go for it.
• Communication with the group to make sure no one gets lost or misinterprets the plan of attack is not an issue

Advantages of hunting in a group:

• You can blame Big Al if the elk run in the opposite direction
• Elk calling is much easier - except deciding who gets to be up front and who is the designated caller can be a challenge.
• Snack time is more fun. Why is it that everyone else's snacks always seem better than yours? If MREs are the choice meal on the mountain, there is usually a little bartering going on for different items contained in the meal ready to eat.
• Packing out your animal is so much easier.
• "Forcing" the guys to watch one of my girlie movies when we get back to the camper at night (Yes, I'm spoiled and have a DVD player in the camper.) This year, we will be watching Pride & Prejudice. I think the guys will LOVE it. Boy, are they in for a treat!

I guess overall, I prefer to hunt in a group. The camaraderie shared during the hunt and after the hunt is a recipe for creating lifetime memories. Memories I wouldn't trade for anything. However, I will admit that there are probably some hunts where going solo can be just what the Dr. ordered. Those are the moments where it is just you alone with your thoughts, enjoying the beauty and wonder of creation. I think there is also the challenge of knowing you can bag the animal by yourself and the sense of accomplishment that goes with it. Good stuff.

I'm off to go pack my camouflage before I get in trouble with my hunting partner, aka.. husband.