On my journey to self-sufficiency, I am learning how to hunt. Last Winter was my first experience hunting, in general for the first time ever, on private land with a mentor. But I don't want to rely on people to be able to practice and learn or outright be able to hunt at all. I decided to try and hunt on public land this upcoming season. Yesterday was my first scouting trial run and I happen to encounter a very busy corridor in the woods used by deer, hogs and bears.

I am scouting in summer and planning on hunting in fall/winter, so the environment will be different and so will be the location and behavior of my prey. But I thoroughly enjoyed the thrill of being able to apply everything I have been learning through the internet in relation to tracking. This trip de-mystified the whole tracking thing. Also, being alone in the woods, off pre-made trials, was extremely refreshing and exciting. Even though I am physically exhausted, I find myself emotionally recharged (yes, I am an introvert at my core).

Planning on another scouting trip in 3-4 weeks or so.