I have been privileged to share duck and goose blinds with some of the finest people on this earth. My life of hunting, fishing and outdoor activities has been truly blessed. Starting with my father, grandfather and cousins in Texas to the friends all over the states and Canada, to the young men who make my life so good at the present time — it just takes my breath. There is something about these relationships that is separate from all the other great friends I have in other areas. 

I am concerned about the future of our heritage in the hunting and fishing arena. There are fewer hunters every year if statistics are true. I read eloquent essays on the “reason we hunt” and such in the wildlife books and magazines. I don’t think those have any impact—kids aren’t reading them, and I have trouble relating to them even when I agree. The internet and cell phones and video games take a huge toll on the potential hunters among us.

There are a few very bright spots in this dark picture. I have a couple of friends who have “adopted” a kid or two and have ignited the spark in them. Success in warm weather goes a long way in the journey to being satisfied with an unsuccessful hunt in bitter weather where you nearly die. It is a definite transition that you pass through to learn to relish the tough hunts and fishing trips that don’t work as planned. I have great memories of being lost, wet, cold, wind-blown, sinking a boat and losing gear in totally unsuccessful escapades. It takes some maturity or stupidity to take on some of the trips but they are the fabric of our lives. If you haven’t been awakened in your sleeping bag on a mountain in Colorado in minus 20 degree weather by your buddy trying to repair a leak in the air mattress — you haven’t lived. You can’t believe how cold that ground is. Yes, we got the elk.  

I think we have to engage these youngsters on many levels. A new dog is one way to get their attention. Labradors and hunting dogs have a way of changing your lives. One of the best hunters I know called me the other day to go duck hunting. His new lab is wired and so pretty! I am always honored when young men in college with big jobs and lots of irons in the fire even remember that I’m around. Of course, I have known and cherished this young man for most of his life. His dad took me out on opening day for a limit of ducks. Yes, I know how lucky I am. This is my second year without a dog. Still feels strange.

There is a surge in hunting by female enthusiasts. I see more women on the hunting shows all the time. They all have level eyes, steady hands and skills and endurance. They will outwalk and outshoot you just for fun. Be very respectful of these ladies—they don’t take any guff — and I am sure they can hurt you. This is a great trend in our sport that must be recognized and respected.

I’m into the cooking now. There are a couple of guys from Louisiana and one from Wyoming that share dinner and food stories and all kinds of info and opinions almost every evening. They are all terrific chefs and I am just learning a bit — but they inspire me a lot. Wild game is about the healthiest on the planet if it doesn’t have to exist in a polluted area. Fish in Kansas rivers are accumulating toxins and you have to pay attention.

So what have I said—not much. We all have to do our part to save our heritage. My cameras have given me exposure to lots more than hunting/fishing stuff—I am very lucky.

Pay attention for the Whooping Cranes and waterfowl. I have never seen this many snow geese this early. With the milo being cut, I am seeing more of those beautiful pheasants. Hunt hard, aim straight, and enjoy the bounty of our great Kansas outdoors!

Doc

Doctor Dan Witt is a retired physician and nature enthusiast.