This season started out pretty rough after loosing my side kick at only 9 yrs old due to an inoperable tumor. Last season I noticed he was starting to slow down so I talked the Mrs. into letting me get on the list for one of my buddies Setter pups. I was hoping to run this pup with my older dog this first season unfortunately it didn't happen.
I usually don't hunt birds much until November after most my big game hunts are done, I did manage to turn him out on some blue grouse during archery season but that was it. He was lacking with exposure when we started chasing pheasants and chuckars in November but man he caught on quick. I can not believe the natural hunt drive and ability of this dog at 9 months old he is running big and holding on point for 10-15 minutes, relocating and whoa on command. Everyone told me this first season with a male setter will be a sacrificial year, If this year was a sacrificial year i want one every year. with over 100 birds shot over him between 7 and 9 months and traveling to 3 states I think its fair to say my old side kick knew he was leaving me in good hands with this pup.
