Farewell Captain Jaime & Welcome Baby Lauren Chute
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