A New Year Brings News From AU!
What Do We Do in the Offseason?
We get this question all the time and it’s not easy to answer. Rather than bore you with a laundry list, we’re starting a series focusing on one person at AU doing something special they enjoy in the offseason. We begin with Captain Chuck McNamee – owner, operator, mechanic, captain, and a lot more, including deer hunter.
Captain Chuck’s Hunting Report
After the crazy busy season in Sitka, I cherish spending time in the woods with family and friends near where I grew up on the family farm in Minnesota. We have a small cabin that provides shelter and the basics. No running water or electricity, but the cabin provides a gathering place and a well-stoked fire pit. Considering all the challenges of 2020, the time in the woods felt even more therapeutic this fall. I have several deer stands set up that overlook the creek that flows through the property. So long as the heater works, it is easy to sit there for a long time. I was perched in my favorite stand nicknamed “The Pumpkin Patch ” this year when Jen walked over to join me. After sitting for a couple of hours enjoying the view, I told her that I wished a big buck would walk out of the brush for a drink. Well, 30 minutes later that’s exactly what happened! It was unforgettable and made more special that Jen was there to share the experience. I had a clean shot and the deer went quickly from drinking to snorkeling, then back to camp.
This year was made more special because we had 5 women successfully harvest their first deer ever, including Bella Bayerl who has spent two summers with AU as a hostess. One of these gals, Talia, has the scope print on her forehead to prove it. She’s hoping that it leaves a permanent scar to remind her of the excitement of shooting her first buck. I’m still wearing some evidence of the hunting season, too. I was splitting wood when a chunk flew up and whacked my eyebrow. I currently have the most awesome black eye of my life. Of course, I do, it’s still 2020, right?
We all enjoyed a great hunting season. The traditional deer heart and tenderloins cooked over the fire were enjoyed by all, as was the time spent with family, friends surrounding the fire pit.
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Hi Chuck, I loved your hunting story and immediately surmised the cause of Talia’s smile and scope “kiss”. Congrats to all! I too had the opportunity to share a hunt with some dedicated women looking for elk in New Mexico. We were tenting above 8000 feet in snow but still managed to find an animal. Great times!
I look forward to hearing more of your off season exploits.
All the Best – Josh C Vermont
As you know Josh much of the success is being in the wilderness and enjoying nature with family and friends.
Cheers to successful hunting and fishing trips.
Capt. Chuck