A Family Hunt Tradition

Heading to the field to roust up some roosters

Smoke curled up from the chimney that protrudes through the tin roof sheltering a massive brick firepit. A cast-iron grate supported an old blue and white porcelain percolator, warmed by the amber glow of embers and steaming from the pour spout. “Fine morning for the Family Hunt, eh Don” I asked Chapter Treasurer, Don Perrigin, as he grasped the percolator and poured a steel mug full of the rich, black, aromatic coffee lifeblood.

For the first time in years, Blue Mountain Pheasants Forever’s late November Family Hunt could be braved in a heavy flannel rather than mittens and winter coat with pockets full of Hot Hands. The dogs ran in the snow in 2020, but not this day.

Chapter President Makaiwi Wachter loads up a rooster for a successful young hunter

More than a dozen families arrived by 9:00am to watch their fellow Chapter members march behind seasoned pointers and flushers, even a bird-hunting boarder collie as they walked the fields of Clyde Shooting Preserve.

Families joined the hunt from as far as Central Washington. A few young hunters connected with their first roosters. A newbie GSP experienced an action-packed pheasant field. Meanwhile, Chapter leaders took in the show and occasionally talked business, capitalizing on the opportunity to visit outside of a meeting.

Yes, the Family Hunt is a coveted event, as celebrated by the volunteers who facilitate and mentor as those who participate. Another year of memories is in the books. Who’s looking forward to next November?

This little boy “Chukar” experienced his first upland hunt