The journey is the trophy to this old timer

It has often been said that “beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder,” (Plato) and such is true with hunting trophies as well.

It is the individual’s appreciation that can make it a treasured harvest.

One definition of the word trophy is “something gained or given in conquest or victory, especially when preserved or mounted as a memorial.” (Merriam-Webster)

To a meat hunter, a quick, accurate, and merciful kill shot to the neck of a young whitetail meat buck is a victory. The fat free, high protein meat will sustain him or her, and a decent rack on that animal is an added bonus. When a dad takes his young daughter out, teaching her the ethics he was taught, and carefully instructs her on the skills of compass and map orienteering, it is a bonding experience for both of them. If per chance, her patience and marksmanship pay off, one may be hard pressed to find a more proud father and daughter!

If two men diligently scout, bow hunt, and get to know an area really well, they become a team. They must trust and depend on each other.If upon returning in rifle season, they split up, hunt, and both score a bull elk, well, it just doesn’t get much better than that.

In the case of two middle aged gals getting together for a hunt and returning with a nice muley buck, it certainly is all good!

And when a lone graybeard, must accept his limitations, and the fact that many of his old partners have gone on to the happy hunting grounds, it is not easy.

This old timer will take in and appreciate every sunrise, the fresh wind on his face, and the snow capped mountains. For him, the journey is the trophy.

The remote ruggedness of Northwest Montana does indeed produce some exceptionally fine animal specimens. And folks, we have some of the most talented taxidermists in the world in our area!

Taxidermy is a fine art these days, and mounts are delicately detailed to accent poignant poses. These talented craftsmen and women will add imitation snow, native plants and mosses to gracefully add that special life-like appearance.

Any reminder of a good day hunting is a trophy. The framed photograph, tanned hide, and beautifully antlered buck mount should bring back feelings of respect for the animal.

And for us humans, those memorials may just rekindle fond remembrances that bring tears to our eyes and melt the walls of our hearts.