So if you read my moving South thread, you know I had to spend yesterday pulling stands. Some sweet memories as I pulled stands off 2 local farms. There was plenty of effort and thought put into the placement of those. I had already moved 1 in March because I knew what the farmer was planting this year and patterns change with the crops. So I thanked old Farmer Miller for the many years and memories and the generosity of him sharing his farm with me. He wished me well and said he would miss me around the farm. I would always take a few minutes and share some hunting tales with him. He is a good man. I go to the other farm, where I took my buck this year. I stop at the house and tell the Carvers that i'm moving and I'm going to pull my stands. I tell them to pass on a few tips to the Mennonite boys (these boys work the farm) they also hunt the land. (stay away from the area past the Beaver Damn until the first of March, then go get that big boy who has eluded me for 2 years) They tell me how gracious and considerate I was and how I treated their land with respect. I have restored their faith in hunters. Feeling proud of myself and the good I have done for our sport (if just with a couple families), I head off to gather my last stand, I sludge through the swamp. coming to the precious piece of land where ole faithful is hung. I take in the moment and the brief pause sends a bedded deer crashing out of the thick entanglement. I chuckle and go to pick up my stand....Only the tree remains, someone stole the stand and climbing sticks. Ashamed of my fellow outdoorman, I head back out...the pride I felt in restoring this families trust..is like a lie hanging on my shoulders. I don't tell them the news, I can't.....I simply wave goodbye as I head back out.
Sounds like a bittersweet moment in many regards. Leaving a piece of ground you've hunted for many years is always sentimental. Having your stand stolen is always infuriating. Rest assured, you still did good regardless of the theft. Good luck to you in your future hunting endeavors! Sometimes when one door closes, another is just opening.
Respecting someone's land is what it's all about. You will always have the memories, good luck to you!
Hey don't forget you get vacation my friend. it does not have to be the end right?? I no the feeling though. see ya neighbor
Don't worry..I already have this PA Gun season off..pre-negotiated. I'll visit the old haunts from time to time...and now can even afford some new adventures..
I recently lost three properties that I have hunted for over 25 years,pulling the stands was a tearfull event for me.But I will recover.Funny how you get attached to theses areas.
You're a good man Bob and good luck with the new place. I just got back a place ive hunted for years for this coming fall. With so many memories I look forward to creating new ones. Good Luck, T
Sorry to hear about the lost stand; but great to hear the kind of ethics you are bringing to the table. Good luck next season, and hopefully you find a new place for a NEW stand!
Tough ending there Bob, specially with the stolen stand. I can relate to the memories you speak of though. At 13 years old (24 years ago) I shot my 1st deer (doe fawn). This was 200 yards straight west of where I live now. I no longer hunt back there as the owner decided to fence up this great river bottom bedding area and put beef cattle In there. Once a year though I walk back there and just stroll around and think about the past. The tree I shot my 1st deer from Is still there but the rest (long grass and thick cover) Is gone. What a great piece of property It once was. Cattle will wreck anything. Damn I miss hunting back there. Best of luck with your new spots Bob.
