Thanks for posting the story and pics BrianB!
And thanks again for putting such a perfect shot on a great bull! That "hell hole" is no joke and all of us are grateful we didnt have to head down that hole in the dark
!!!
Fast Eddie is my uncle and is solely responsible for creating a love and passion of hunting in my life. Many years ago while still in the Navy, I came home for a weekend and my Father and I paid Uncle Ed a visit (he became "Fast Eddie" many years later ...lol ). He happened to be out back shooting his bow. He asked me to try it out - I loved it - so he GAVE it to me!! I couldn't believe it! That day lead to countless memories in the elk woods and I will forever be grateful for his love, kindness, mentor-ship and the laughter he has brought to us all over the years.
This hunt was one of the most fun hunts I have had in years! Last year I had the Peaches Archery tag along with Brian B and we worked so hard, that to be honest, maybe some of the "fun" was lost. But this year was all about spending time with Fast Eddie and giving it our all to get him his first bull! In fact, if I remember right, in 40+ years of him hunting, he has never killed an elk with his bow. (Correct me if I am wrong Throphyhunt).
We had MANY close encounters due mostly to the outstanding calling from Brian B
, but several of those close calls were ended with a truck driving by us (mostly people scouting for later hunts). We of course knew that could/would happen with our limitations, but we worked through those frustrations by simply appreciating the time together and the experience of the beautiful bugling bulls.
When Fast Eddie shot at the 320+ class bull in "the farm", it was one of the best experiences ever! I was right next to him letting him know when the bull was coming (bad hearing) and helping him set up for the shot, and I would have bet he layed a perfect shot on that bull!! There was hugging, laughter and even tears as we believed Fast Eddie had just killed a daddy bull! We were shocked to find that dry arrow the next day, but just figured it was good news because the hunt could continue
.... And it did, and ended with great success!!
I am blessed to have such a great Uncle that has always loved me, and my friends, and although he is 72 and disabled, I am praying we have a couple more years left. He is a good man that put up with a bunch of "young kids" over the years as we all grew into the men we are today. I'm am positive it was not easy at times ....
Life is good, God is Great, and I am truly blessed be a part of the East-side Elk Mafia!!
Now on to finding my White River Muzzy bull......
