Steve and Virgil "Preserving the Family Tradition of Hunting" in the Rocky Mountains.

Steve Puckett

Guys and gals this is an incredible story that is as heart felt and touching as they come. This story is the exact reason that I decided to start Next Generation Hunting. If each and everyone of us could create memories like this one, well, it would just makes family that much more important. I only hope that I can give my son and daughters the memories that Steve and Virgil have created. I know you will enjoy this as much as I did and I will guaranty it will put a smile on your face.

Oh ya, I almost forgot, Steve harvested a very nice 5 x 5 bull elk.

Few things in life can bring family and friends closer than experiences shared in the hunting woods. As I have gotten older I realize how much I cherish those times with my dad and that I want to pass those learning experiences on to my own daughter.

During a recent backcountry elk hunt in Colorado I was able to share 10 days away from tv, cell phones, electricity and running water, etc. and just get back to the basics with my Dad. This was our second back country experience together. I hope it's the second of many. These kinds of hunts have many up's and down's but you can never come away from these experiences without having grown with the person you're with.

When we were preparing to make the trip and I was trying to explain to someone why I would prefer to take my vacation on a mountain side without creature comforts (instead of at a beach resort), I realized that most people are lucky to see their parents at the holidays, even those who live in the same town as their parents have a limited amount of time together. These trips are a way for my dad and me to reconnect or stay connected. Spending 24/7 under these conditions for 14 days gives us more time together each year than most people have with their parents.

Having the bond of hunting brings us closer, keeps us healthier and gives us something to look forward to. As these trips approach we talk on the phone almost daily as we prepare. My only regret is that we didn't start going on these trips sooner. We're already looking forward to planning our next adventure in the Rocky Mountains. The fall air is quickly approaching, do you know where your kids are?