Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Elk Hunting => Topic started by: hogslayer on June 19, 2014, 09:39:14 PM

Title: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: hogslayer on June 19, 2014, 09:39:14 PM: I have a really good friend who has been my archey elk hunting buddy for the last few years. He has been with me when I have shot two elk. He is really into it and hunts hard (not smart) when we go together but, during the off season he just doesn't want to do any prep work. I bought him some calls doesn't use them. Doesn't want to buy any gear, we both bought garmin rino's to hunt with and returns his. Says he doesn't want to start shooting tell August and now can't make it to go scout a new area :bash:. So what have you guys done when something like this comes up? Just let it go and realize your good buddies and that's that. Or call them out on there commitment?
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: lostbackpacker on June 19, 2014, 09:44:13 PM: Either sink to his level or step up and find another partner
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Stump on June 19, 2014, 09:46:04 PM: My thought also find a new one. I have had the same problem and not much else you can do.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: pd on June 19, 2014, 09:47:19 PM: Quote from: lostbackpacker on June 19, 2014, 09:44:13 PM
Either sink to his level or step up and find another partner

:yeah:

It is time to make a decision.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: ICEMAN on June 19, 2014, 09:54:49 PM: Keep your buddy as he is.

Look at it this way....you are talking about a hunting party of two. If you had a hunting group of five guys showing up each year, they would all participate at a different level. You happen to have one of four that is showing a bit less interest. You need to go find another buddy to add to your group, hopefully one that is more interested.

No reason to throw your friend away cause he does not share exactly your dedication level. Add a new more interested friend.

No group of guys all display the same amount of excitement and dedication as you.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: syoungs on June 19, 2014, 10:01:42 PM: Well put iceman :tup:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: bowhunterwa87 on June 19, 2014, 10:05:24 PM: :yeah: good advice
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: REHJWA on June 19, 2014, 10:14:18 PM: Find other ways he can contribute to the hunt.
If he wants you to do all the scouting, let him do the cooking...:chuckle:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: BOOM!! on June 19, 2014, 10:41:04 PM: Quote from: hogslayer on June 19, 2014, 09:39:14 PM
I have a really good friend who has been my archey elk hunting buddy for the last few years. He has been with me when I have shot two elk. He is really into it and hunts hard (not smart) when we go together but, during the off season he just doesn't want to do any prep work. I bought him some calls doesn't use them. Doesn't want to buy any gear, we both bought garmin rino's to hunt with and returns his. Says he doesn't want to start shooting tell August and now can't make it to go scout a new area :bash:. So what have you guys done when something like this comes up? Just let it go and realize your good buddies and that's that. Or call them out on there commitment?
.

Take all that and then add that my partner would then turn around and take all the credit for his and my success, l couldn't take it any more. I hunt solely with my son now and l have much more fun. My buddy and l are still friends though.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Bean Counter on June 19, 2014, 10:50:55 PM: :bash: :bash:

That's me planning with my two hunting partners. They're good guys, just don't seem to give an S when it comes to planning logistics and what not. In years past I've gotten frustrated enough to just go myself. However, as it has turned out, I have always had a partner, and usually one less committed at that, when I put an animal down. I guess it's God's way of teaching me patience and teamwork. :rolleyes:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: idahohuntr on June 19, 2014, 11:05:07 PM: Good hunting partners are worth their weight in gold. But all too often its just miscommunication (or failure to communicate) about goals and objectives that cause problems in hunting camps. I have some friends who show extreme dedication, have desires to kill trophies and I know this and when I commit to hunt with them I know what I'm getting into.

I have other buddies who just like to have a good time. They want to spend some time around a campfire and catch-up and if we don't kill anything, well, its not that big of a deal.

I like hunting with all of them...but most importantly, the hunts are enjoyable because I can match my expectations to theirs.

I have a very good group that I elk hunt with in Idaho every year...we all have the same objectives, but bring different skill sets and we just work well together. Elk hunting can be tough, mentally and physically, and so it is easy to strain relationships. Our group has been together for a long time and I am so fortunate to be a part of it...I know it won't last forever and every year I get to spend with those guys I am grateful. Its one hunt I just wouldn't miss for anything in the world. One of our guys actually couldn't make it last year and it was seriously one of the worst pieces of news I had to deal with...it was truly depressing...but his wife was diagnosed with cancer and scheduled for her first treatment on opening day. She is doing well now and appears to have beat it...it was a somber reminder to not taking anything for granted.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: ghosthunter on June 19, 2014, 11:05:08 PM: Quote from: ICEMAN on June 19, 2014, 09:54:49 PM
Keep your buddy as he is.

Look at it this way....you are talking about a hunting party of two. If you had a hunting group of five guys showing up each year, they would all participate at a different level. You happen to have one of four that is showing a bit less interest. You need to go find another buddy to add to your group, hopefully one that is more interested.

No reason to throw your friend away cause he does not share exactly your dedication level. Add a new more interested friend.

No group of guys all display the same amount of excitement and dedication as you.

Great advice but why stop with one more.?
I hunt turkey's with one or two.
Elk with several .
Ducks with others.
Every group has a planner,sounds like that is you. Bringing in other partners also might get the other guy more interested.

I have one partner who wants to go all the time, wants a plan months ahead, but gets bored at the hunt if he doesn't see any thing soon. And hunts half hearted.
I often have hard time finding folks as committed as I am.

Cultivate some more partners.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: bowguy on June 19, 2014, 11:08:05 PM: I'd say try to find another guy you can both get along with and increase the group to 3. Like the guys said earlier split duties to make differences.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: RadSav on June 19, 2014, 11:39:00 PM: Hey, you have shot two elk. Time to pay your taxes, sign up for Obama care and spread the wealth man! Didn't you get the government memo? We don't spread work ethic any more! You must be a horrible friend and a racist! C'mon, pay your fair share you selfish... :chuckle:

Embrace Solo hunting. Then the only person who can let you down is yourself. Problem solved :tup:

If you want to keep your friend and hunting partner ask yourself this question; Which is worse? -
Having someone force you into hunting in a way that you do not like.
Forcing someone to hunt in a way that they do not like.

Sounds to me like you may need to stop being the dominator and start being the communicator. Find out if he really wants to hunt with you. Maybe he has been hunting your way just because you are his friend. If that is the case he may feel relief by being let off the hook while you go find a new hunting partner.

My best friend and I rarely hunt together anymore now that I have the ball and chain bolted on. Hasn't changed the power of our friendship at all! He's been my best friend for more than 25 years and I expect, God willing, he will be my best friend for the next 25 years.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Ranger91298 on June 20, 2014, 12:40:53 AM: Seems like you have received some great feedback from the other members. I do have a question for you, was your friend there to help you pack out the two elk YOU shot? The way I see it if he has been there to help dress, quarter, or pack out the animals he seems to be a pretty good hunting partner. He may not be as hard core as you are but if he has helped pack your animals out, sounds like he is loyal to me. Gotta way the pros & cons, but that is just me... I try to see the positive in everything......:twocents:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: hogslayer on June 20, 2014, 05:04:24 AM: That is some good advice guys. Thanks for the different perspectives on the issues. I know I am not the only one that has had this trouble. Yes he has helped out a lot with hauling meat and cutting it up and did buy a grinder. I guess you can't expect someone to have the same desire for hunting as you do.... There has to be something to learn in that.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: pianoman9701 on June 20, 2014, 06:19:51 AM: I've been hunting with my best friend for about 6 or 7 years. We're both big guys and need exercise to get ready for elk season. For me, elk hunting is something for which I wait all year. I think for him, the time off and getting away is what he gets out of it, although he does like the hunting. In the past, he hasn't been doing the workouts and getting conditioned for the elk hunt. We'll get to camp and if we hunt together, it has to be easier terrain and going slower up the hills. Sometimes he doesn't want to get up and he'll sleep in. This still bugs me a bit but I have to remember that we're both out here for different reasons and with different levels of commitment, and I get to spend 10 days with my best friend without the phones or home issues or email. So, I hunt hard by myself sometimes and I hunt with him not-so-hard others. What we also really enjoy is our time together back in camp around the fire, at dinner, so on. You have to decide first which is more important; your friendship or your hunting. Can you do both? We can.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: turkeyfeather on June 20, 2014, 06:24:18 AM: I had a buddy that started doing this exact same thing. I quit hunting with him. I am not going to do all the legwork and then just hand the info over to someone who has sat on his @#% the whole time.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: coachcw on June 20, 2014, 06:31:25 AM: I've been in this boat . just tell the guy that you live to hunt and want to give it 100% . I'd say set up camp where it best suites your style of hunting . tell him he is welcome in camp but when your in the woods it's all about hunting. I have hunted in groups and solo and will tell you both have there benefits and rewards , sharing pain and laughs with friends is priceless but as well hunting solo and reflecting while is the elk woods is also very gratifying. I'd say hunting solo is more productive than with two or more . having a friend around camp and to help pack both adds to the experience and saves your back come time to pack. bringing a third wheel in will only work if he or she hunts like your buddy and not you other wise he will feel ditched. bring a guy in that has less drive than your buddy would be my advise . they can pal around while you get serious .
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Bob33 on June 20, 2014, 06:32:51 AM: A good hunting partner can be harder to find than a good spouse. I have high standards and low tolerance for certain types of behavior. I do have a few precious partners but also do quite a bit of hunting alone. To me a poor partner is worse than none.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: jstone on June 20, 2014, 06:34:58 AM: I have 2 hunting partners who don't say anything until hunting season is ready to start. They are always saying "so what are we doing this year". I ask have you shot your bows, I haven't had time. My wife says i caudal them. I told my self no more this year. I will plan stuff for my son and i only. They also went to the sportsman show. They told me that i needed to plan an out of state hunt. I am but not with them. :chuckle: :chuckle: Sucks being the one how does most of the work. I feel your pain
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: coachcw on June 20, 2014, 06:35:42 AM: remember having some one that is willing to move the truck and pick you up is a huge asset
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: rtspring on June 20, 2014, 07:06:14 AM: You cannot force the will, drive and passion for hunting on anyone, They either have it or they don't.

I have the following buddies that hunt with me,

1. buys the cheapest clothes, bullets, and gear , comes up the night before the opener hunts two days and goes home.
2. guy drinks more beer than any human alive but will hunt his butt of during the whole season, just does nothing in between seasons.
3. guy has a ton of money, buys the best gear, and try's to give it all he has during elk season but never kills anything.
4. buddy and his wife, they leave it al on the table and keep coming back for more. still have yet to kill an elk. but they try like hell
5. this guy usually fly's in from out of state and will hunt all day long and then some, killed a bull his first morning ever elk hunting! HE got the fever!!! always dependable.

6. then there is these two guys that send me pictures of chocolate shakes while I am trying to get into shape for hunting season!!! good thing they can pack out elk!!!

I have never met one person who loves to be in the woods more than me, they do exist but its rare. I like being solo but also like to BS with buddies while chasing elk. SOme people just want to hunt, but not HUNT if you know what I mean.
I spend 90 percent of my time alone, whether chasing big game or waterfowl, I enjoy it.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: teanawayslayer on June 20, 2014, 07:23:25 AM: Been there done that! Find Someone like yourself that has the same drive and passion! You will have so much more fun. It's always good to have someone to push you to go the extra mile. :twocents:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 20, 2014, 07:32:03 AM: What does he do when the season starts, that's really all that matters. If you have to take care of everything, baby sit him, etc, then talk to him. If he is there, helps out, packs with you, and is self sufficient, what more do you want? Everyone has their own ways of preparing for the season.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: PlateauNDN on June 20, 2014, 07:33:18 AM: Quote from: rtspring on June 20, 2014, 07:06:14 AM
You cannot force the will, drive and passion for hunting on anyone, They either have it or they don't.

I have the following buddies that hunt with me,

1. buys the cheapest clothes, bullets, and gear , comes up the night before the opener hunts two days and goes home.
2. guy drinks more beer than any human alive but will hunt his butt of during the whole season, just does nothing in between seasons.
3. guy has a ton of money, buys the best gear, and try's to give it all he has during elk season but never kills anything.
4. buddy and his wife, they leave it al on the table and keep coming back for more. still have yet to kill an elk. but they try like hell
5. this guy usually fly's in from out of state and will hunt all day long and then some, killed a bull his first morning ever elk hunting! HE got the fever!!! always dependable.

6. then there is these two guys that send me pictures of chocolate shakes while I am trying to get into shape for hunting season!!! good thing they can pack out elk!!!

I have never met one person who loves to be in the woods more than me, they do exist but its rare. I like being solo but also like to BS with buddies while chasing elk. SOme people just want to hunt, but not HUNT if you know what I mean.
I spend 90 percent of my time alone, whether chasing big game or waterfowl, I enjoy it.

So is coach #2 or #5? :chuckle: It's tough finding reliable and dedicates hunting partners and because of that majority of the time I hunt alone. My most recent hunting partner is a new hunter and is hooked on the stalk but hasn't quite got the strength just yet or stamina for long days but he'll develop that over time, youngest son. Keep searching or go solo.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: fishngamereaper on June 20, 2014, 07:36:09 AM: Just leave well enough alone. Its worked out for you so far. If he is a true friend you dont mind doing the extra work. Im in the same boat as you for the most part but its fine with me. Im a type A so I kind of like doing all the planning and prep work anyway. Its just how Im wired. I do it for all the hunts and even the fishing trips. Do what you want to do, when you want to, how you want to..I dont see the problem. And when it comes down to getting dirty if you got someone willing to jump in and help, thats a bonus. Packed out plenty of animals by myself, didnt mind doing it but extra legs would of been nice.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Jingles on June 20, 2014, 08:13:59 AM: First question is What's a hunting Buddy? Seriously though I have mixed opinion on this as there might be several reasons for his lack of prep and not knowing the person can't make a call as to fault him or not.
One thing I can say is if he is good company and you get along other than for this be grateful you have someone to go with if he helps in other ways be glad you don't have to do everything.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Meat Truck on June 20, 2014, 08:33:27 AM: I say expand your group, unless you want to go solo. Hopefully someone in your bigger group will be as crazy as you. If not, accept the value in what the less dedicated bring. Jokes, beer, cook, someone to make fun of, whatever

I've got 4-6 in my posse, depending on the year. One guy just wants to hide from his wife for a week. He's always broke, drinks my beer, and sleeps til noon. But he's fun to hang out with, and my brother, so he's always invited. And if there is an elk down, he's always there in a second.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Bookworm007 on June 20, 2014, 08:43:27 AM: I have run into similar problems but my hunting partners are family so I doubt I will be exchanging them anytime soon. I definitely put in more leg work preseason and while the though of my brother dropping an animal that I have been scouting all year is frustrating I kinda prefer scouting by myself. My brother and father can't keep up with me when I hike and I don't have to cater to other peoples schedules. So there are a lot of other blessings to doing some things by yourself especially if the other partner helps split costs of putting together the elk camp. Plus if he is a really good friend its worth the memories. :twocents:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: deerhunter_98520 on June 20, 2014, 09:13:01 AM: I'm in the same boat....I do all the scouting and preparing but when season comes around its hard to find another person willing to hike more than him and he more than makes up for it packing animals out....it can be frustrating preseason scouting by yourself but I've just dealt with it...now he tells me he's not sure what he's going to do with weyco charging now....I may end up hunting by myself
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: tonymiller7 on June 20, 2014, 10:09:39 AM: I had the same thing happen to me only to make things worse it was my Dad. So he got the altimatum, I'm going to go with these guys and do this... you are more than welcome to come with me and continue to be my hunting partner... he CHOOSES not to. I still deer hunt with him but I now elk hunt with guys who put out the same effort I do.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: pianoman9701 on June 20, 2014, 10:38:59 AM: Quote from: tonymiller7 on June 20, 2014, 10:09:39 AM
I had the same thing happen to me only to make things worse it was my Dad. So he got the altimatum, I'm going to go with these guys and do this... you are more than welcome to come with me and continue to be my hunting partner... he CHOOSES not to. I still deer hunt with him but I now elk hunt with guys who put out the same effort I do.

That's tough with your dad, Tony. He knows he's welcome in your camp, no conditions? You guys don't necessarily have to run up and down hills together to enjoy spending time with each other. :dunno:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: tonymiller7 on June 20, 2014, 10:41:24 AM: Oh yeah, he knows. We've talked about it at length. He chooses not to go elk hunting with me. He only lives 15 minutes away so it's not like we don't hang out. I just had to find other people to elk hunt with.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: blindluck on June 20, 2014, 11:30:27 AM: 5 years ago on a Saturday morning my phone rings my buddy is in eastern wa. with a big bull archery tag he tells me he shot a big 6x6 last night right before dark gutted skinned quartered him then packed the head out of the canyon back to camp by then it was 2am. I congradulated him and told him to call me when he gets home for the rest of the story. we hung up, I was so excited I couldn't take it. I threw my back pack some food and water in my truck and made the 4 hour journey to his camp to help him. when I pulled up he had just packed one quarter out. He could not believe his eyes when he saw me. It was 1pm we packed the rest of the elk out and both went home. I pulled in my driveway at midnight. Congrads again on a nice bull with archery gear.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: MtgHunter on June 20, 2014, 11:32:21 AM: I have the same issue and think that's the norm. I've always had the passion, but only had one friend who is the same and he lives in Oregon so we haven't hunted together in 4 years. I like to bow hunt for Elk, rifle for deer and my best friend is more for the outdoor experience which is fine. He is great at camp and there to pack an animal, but has a new job and little time so he isn't gonna hunt this year accept maybe deer season. I think you discuss what your goals of a particular hunt are and find out his so your own expectations are realistic and that way it will be more enjoyable for you and maybe him. Having said that I would look to add another person or two depending on the hunt that share your vison so it's more enjoyable for you. Since I didn't draw anything in Washington I'm heading to Montana and of course been spending a lot of time this week researching units because I'm the planner. Convinced another friend to join so I don't have to go alone. Not sure where you live, but if you ever want to meet or shoot up at the Kenmore range pm me.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: pianoman9701 on June 20, 2014, 01:06:05 PM: I did go through 3 or 4 partners until I realized that most people don't form their whole year around a week in the fall.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: nw_bowhunter on June 20, 2014, 02:21:57 PM: This is really a tough decision. If your unhappy about the situation you really need to talk with your friend first! The longer you wait the worse things can get so personally I would do it now since it bothering you. Based on the conversation you can decide what you are willing to tolerate. Often times one hunting partner is more committed through out the whole year vs other hunting partner likes to show up for the hunt. I can say I have dealt with the same situation. I had a partner for years who only wanted to show up, have a good time and put very little effort in but was happy. After ten years it bothered me enough I moved on. Was a decent friend but not passionate about bowhunting. I spent several years hunting on my own which is fine but having someone to BS with, share camp, etc is something I want more. I linked up with a new partner for the last few years for elk who hunts very hard, but try and get him to shoot his bow before August forget about it.. always says he is busy, haven't thought about it, etc. Great guy but makes me wonder if he really that busy, or just doesn't want to make the time. Since he is a good guy and like hunting with him I will deal with it. Besides I have been shooting with a couple of great guys from HW and that's been nice. I guess the bottom line is have the conversation so you can know where you stand and not worry about it.")
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: hogslayer on June 20, 2014, 02:42:35 PM: The weird thing about it is that for some reason I feel a little responsible for getting him his first elk. I am afraid that when he shot opportunity comes he will miss and that could be the end of the season. When we do get into the woods he is hard at it for hiking and setting up camp and hauling meat so I can't complain to much. Just wish my buddy was more into it with prep. I believe that having the right gear and being a confident shooter and scouting helps with your success in killing big game. Seems like a lot of people just think I will show up and give it my best and see if I get one.... It is just like fishing. If you tie your own leaders and have good gear you will catch more fish. Little things do add up..
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: pianoman9701 on June 20, 2014, 03:06:12 PM: Quote from: hogslayer on June 20, 2014, 02:42:35 PM
The weird thing about it is that for some reason I feel a little responsible for getting him his first elk. I am afraid that when he shot opportunity comes he will miss and that could be the end of the season. When we do get into the woods he is hard at it for hiking and setting up camp and hauling meat so I can't complain to much. Just wish my buddy was more into it with prep. I believe that having the right gear and being a confident shooter and scouting helps with your success in killing big game. Seems like a lot of people just think I will show up and give it my best and see if I get one.... It is just like fishing. If you tie your own leaders and have good gear you will catch more fish. Little things do add up..

This is such a personal decision that depends on a lot of different factors. Just because he's not as committed as you doesn't mean you have to slough him off. If he's showing and you all have a good time together, that might be enough. :dunno:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 20, 2014, 03:18:57 PM: It wouldn't be as much fun if your priorities were the same, enjoy the differences you guys have, it makes the trips much better. It takes a special type of person to live a breath only one activity and you will be hard pressed to find someone else who feels the same. There is no formula for shooting animals and every person finds their own way to enjoy this sport. You like spending your whole year planning for a week, he might enjoy looking forward to that 1 week he gets to spend with his buddy in the woods.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 20, 2014, 03:23:03 PM: And if he isnt as experienced and this is his first big game animal, I guarantee you guys will cherish that first elk he gets and he will be very thankful to have learned from you. Then you will see his intensity pick up!
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: pd on June 20, 2014, 03:38:19 PM: This has turned out to be an interesting thread. There are a lot of guys (and ladies, too) whose opinions I really respect, and many of them have posted excellent comments here. I have learned a lot. Thanks for the original post.

And, finally, did we decide which one Coach was?
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: hogslayer on June 20, 2014, 06:51:45 PM: I agree that this has definitely shed some light on the scenario. I feel a lot better about the situation knowing that a lot of people have gone through the same thing. Thanks guys for the input.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: runamuk on June 22, 2014, 08:13:58 AM: I am OCD and have anxiety...I am a planner if I cant go over something in my head half a million times I freak the ef out.
Its me take it or leave it. I hunt alone and with people if I hunt with people who are more fly by the seat of their pants I plan for myself and let them do their thing. I want to be a spontaneous person I really do but it always turns me into a panicked wreck. Currently I am planning how to live in my truck in the event that becomes a scenario I face, I will have it all planned out and it wont scare me......I will just consider it scouting while figuring out housing it will be another adventure to add to my story.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: BGhunter on June 22, 2014, 08:46:19 AM: I use to have the same problem as you. My partner was my brother and he introduced me to hunting so there was no dumping him. He loves to hunt and hunts hard but when its not hunting season he is unwilling to do the prep work so I've always felt that I was doing all the work and he was benefiting from it. I ended up finding some more partners who spend a little more prep time and that makes up for it. I do still hunt with him. I see no reason not to talk to your partner about it but I wouldn't give any ultimatums. Hunting not worth losing friends over. If hes unwilling then find another additional partner or two that are willing to do the prep work that you are. Although that can be harder than you think.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: emac on June 22, 2014, 11:44:31 AM: Quote from: teanawayslayer on June 20, 2014, 07:23:25 AM
Been there done that! Find Someone like yourself that has the same drive and passion! You will have so much more fun. It's always good to have someone to push you to go the extra mile. :twocents:

That's why i hunt with you.

For elk season i hunt with my little brother my dad and my dads best friend who have been hunting together since high school. For my dad and his friend it is just about getting away from the life and enjoying themselves. For my little brother it is kinda of the same. He doesn't really care about the hunting. He says he does cause i do. But he is willing to do anything for me. If i dive off into a canyon and there's a road at the bottom he will pick me up. If i get a animal down he will be right there with me packing it out. If i want him to get up at 4 and hike into an area he will even if he doesn't want too. With all that said i wouldn't have it any other way. I don't mind going by myself and putting in all the leg work. The best part is being around family and friends when i do get back to camp. It is all what you make of it.

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Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: sakoshooter on June 22, 2014, 01:40:45 PM: Quote from: ICEMAN on June 19, 2014, 09:54:49 PM
Keep your buddy as he is.

Look at it this way....you are talking about a hunting party of two. If you had a hunting group of five guys showing up each year, they would all participate at a different level. You happen to have one of four that is showing a bit less interest. You need to go find another buddy to add to your group, hopefully one that is more interested.

No reason to throw your friend away cause he does not share exactly your dedication level. Add a new more interested friend.

No group of guys all display the same amount of excitement and dedication as you.

I agree with Ice as long as he's your friend when it's not hunting season. If that's the only time you guys get together - bye, bye. I've had my share over the years. They always seem to get excited after you've done all the work and supplied all the gear.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: TheHunt on June 22, 2014, 06:06:57 PM: Bring one other into your hunting.

You can do this bring the one on as temporary.

If it works out you now have three in your party. The one who is not into it will only participate as he can and the one more aggressive in hunting will team with you.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on June 22, 2014, 06:48:58 PM: Quote from: hogslayer on June 20, 2014, 06:51:45 PM
I agree that this has definitely shed some light on the scenario. I feel a lot better about the situation knowing that a lot of people have gone through the same thing. Thanks guys for the input.

There have been a lot worse hunting partners. Be glad you have a buddy who enjoys hunting with you. If he shoots his first bull he'll probably buy game cams, tune his bow, practice more and just show more interest in general.

I'd be pissed too if I was always packing your elk! :chuckle:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Elkstuffer on June 22, 2014, 08:17:01 PM: Dear Abby would tell you to send him a copy of your original thread. He'll either show up ready to hunt or you will never hear from him again :chuckle:. Problem solved.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on June 22, 2014, 08:23:51 PM: Hunt alone and this is never a problem ... :dunno: :chuckle: :chuckle:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Watimberghost on June 23, 2014, 07:47:09 PM: I have multiple friends that I hunt with. Some come with me to the high country, some buddies are just cut out for simpler day trips. And I've learned the hard way on that. One thing that I've learned to deal with is that I have more drive and passion than all of them. It consumes me, and that just comes naturally. I used to get frustrated when my hunting partners didn't put forth the effort and planning that I did. But now, I know what to expect. And when its all said and done, I would much rather share my hunting experiences with family and good friends than leave them behind because they aren't as passionate as I am. There is a line though. And some flaky buddies have been dropped off the list. Sounds like your situation isn't too bad... You shoot elk and he helps you pack them out, not bad at all :tup:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: swwaoutdoorsman on June 23, 2014, 08:04:50 PM: Take up hound hunting. The only hunting partner that'll want to hunt as much or more than you. They never quit and are always prepared. :chuckle:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: xXLojackXx on June 24, 2014, 07:15:52 AM: I have this same problem. No buddies of mine take elk hunting as serious as i do. They don't stay in shape, practice calling and shooting, scout, research, etc. They won't come hunt the areas I bivy hunt in, not because of populations but because of the terrain. They're content with killing an elk every 6-10 years instead of every year. They've acquired a taste for tag soup.

I'll be looking for new hunting partners shortly.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: kselkhunter on June 24, 2014, 06:11:33 PM: If he's a good friend, and has helped pack out elk then that is not that bad. I'm the over-planning hunting-addicted backpack hunter of my group, and regularly have to push the others along (some years ending up solo). Here's another vote for keeping the buddy, and just consider adding another more committed member to the party. Having an extra back to pack the elk quarters out is worth some tolerance.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Thehowler on June 24, 2014, 09:35:44 PM: Pondered the same question on hunting partners for probably 10 years. They never seem to get any better,just lazier.
Had one guy take a shot and miss at a cow elk, he got so discouraged he gave up for the season with a week left. He showed up the following season with the rifle he never even got around to cleaning.
Trying to shake these dudes this year.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Nick 139 on June 27, 2014, 10:11:26 PM: My party hunts with 7 guys for elk, some old some young, we all bring different things to the table.. but the true measure of friends.... Will they leave their stump to walk miles to help you pack it out? And number two is... is the food hot when i get back to camp after they do? I'm lucky as hell to have both... Scouting and Rhinos are very over rated! Judge your friends on the important things.
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: Styles on June 28, 2014, 03:46:48 AM: A less then determined partner can be detrimental to all of your hard work and also your hunt!! My motto is...I will be in better shape and have a better attitude than any of my hunting partners!! I will not hold anyone back or be the reason for a failed season!! I just hope anyone that wants to hunt with me will at least attempt to carry the same passion. :brew:
Title: Re: What to do when your hunting buddy isn't as commited?
Post by: asl20bball on June 28, 2014, 07:15:10 AM: Quote from: pianoman9701 on June 20, 2014, 06:19:51 AM
I've been hunting with my best friend for about 6 or 7 years. We're both big guys and need exercise to get ready for elk season. For me, elk hunting is something for which I wait all year. I think for him, the time off and getting away is what he gets out of it, although he does like the hunting. In the past, he hasn't been doing the workouts and getting conditioned for the elk hunt. We'll get to camp and if we hunt together, it has to be easier terrain and going slower up the hills. Sometimes he doesn't want to get up and he'll sleep in. This still bugs me a bit but I have to remember that we're both out here for different reasons and with different levels of commitment, and I get to spend 10 days with my best friend without the phones or home issues or email. So, I hunt hard by myself sometimes and I hunt with him not-so-hard others. What we also really enjoy is our time together back in camp around the fire, at dinner, so on. You have to decide first which is more important; your friendship or your hunting. Can you do both? We can.

Well said Pianoman. I needed to hear that. Thanks