A Great Start!

A quick roadside scout on onX, a gas-station burrito and 30 miles of gumbo-ridden roads led me to this new hunting spot. And let me tell you: It did not disappoint! As I pulled up to the base of the mountain, the sun was rising over the hills, revealing a glistening hoarfrost covering the landscape. The air was cold and crisp, and heat emanated from the dogs as they waited for me on the tailgate to put on their collars. I don’t know what it was—maybe the full night’s sleep, the well-rested dogs or the fact that the burrito didn’t do a number on my gut—but it was one of those mornings that just felt right. After I cut the dogs loose, I hadn’t even had a chance to lock the truck when one of the Garmin collars started beeping, signaling a point. And when the other collar started in, I knew it was for real. I quickly pulled myself together, and after climbing 150 yards to the crest of a hill was greeted with the incredible sight of both dogs locked up on a flat. I took the time to snap a few photos before walking in. When the covey of chukar flushed, I knocked down a double, reloaded and was able to drop a straggler. It was 7:45 am, and I already had three birds in the bag. It was definitely going to be a good day!