Piper, Conner and Carson
This past weekend was great for a variety of reasons but the main reason had to do with the fact that my buddy Tim and I were able to get out in the field with our two sons. Conner and Carson joined us at the Big K Guest Ranch (http://www.big-k.com) for what proved to be one heck of a pheasant hunt. Piper treated us by putting up 13 birds in just over 3 hours. 11 birds were brought to hand with the other two living to fly another day because of some less than stellar shooting.
Our trip started right after school on Friday when Tim stopped by and we loaded our gear in his truck and headed south. We arrived in Sutherland and were treated to an amazing Italian dinner in a little town that is better known for its fast food! After dinner we checked in and the boys played some games while Tim and I enjoyed a glass of some of Oregon’s finest whiskey. After a nice breakfast we were headed to the ranch and by 9AM we were in the field hunting. It didn’t take long before Piper had the first rooster airborne. Tim’s O/U connected and shortly there after I was able to let my 16ga DeHaan do its thing, two birds in the bag! The third bird however marked the most memorable moment of the trip, Conner’s first bird with his toy SxS. As the pheasant fell Conner announced that he had connected. Tim and I looked in amazement because we had no idea that a shotgun shaped cap could actually bring a bird down but who were we to argue. After unloading our guns and making sure the actions were open we let the photo shoot and celebration begin. It wasn’t long after Conner connected on his first bird that Carson announced he had done the same. Time for a second photo shoot and another great memory!
Conner with his pheasant and a huge smile!
Carson and his big pheasant smile!
All in all it was an amazing experience with two incredible boys. I know I can speak for Tim when I say I can’t wait to get them out again. With any luck both Tim and I will get to experience the joy of having our little heros in the field or on the water many more times over the coming years. We were lucky enough to have our dads pass along this great tradition and plan to return that favor by passing it along to Conner and Carson.
Piper guarding her pheasant and getting some well deserved rest.
What a wonderful day. Good dogs! Good boys all.
Yeah, couldn’t have been a better day. Boy really enjoyed it and Piper put on a great show for them. Looking forward to many more outings together!