It’s been a while between trip reports. I’ve managed to make a few trips since my last write up some were successful, some not so much. Either way a trip into the mountains is always worthwhile, and I’m always learning new stuff. Interestingly, I’ve always been keen to talk someone into going out with me, but on the last few trips, I've preferred to go on my own. In fact moving forward I think I enjoy it more solo.
I did a recent trip at the end of September to a spot that I’d seen a few deer in the summer. On the walk in, I managed to spook at least 8 deer in various spots. I often listen to music, and my rifle is in a sleeve strapped to my pack, so I never have time to make a quick shot.
There was loads of pig rooting on the walk in, so I wasn’t surprised to find 7 or 8 pigs out on a flat near where I set up camp. Due to not carrying in loads of ammo, I wasn’t initally going to bother them, however thought if a reasonable one presented itself I’d have a crack. While pitching the tent, I kept my eyes on the mob and eventually, a fairly decent one popped out. I managed to get within 100m so took the shot. I felt pretty guilty leaving such a pig to rot, but figured I was helping out the environment. If it wasn’t such a long walk from the road, I’d have definitely taken it because it would have made great sausages.
After a few photos, I started searching the bush edge for a deer. I’d only gone about 300m, and an opportunity presented itself. A hind was standing in a small clearing staring right at me. It stood there while I got myself set up for the shot and managed to get the venison I was after. I’m still fairly fresh when it comes to getting all of the meat, so it was a fair while before I was back at the tent. I had intended to spend a second night anyway, so I decided if I saw some more pigs I’d try to put a further dent in the population the next day. The interesting thing was I didn’t see a single animal all of the second day or the walk out on the 3rd. That included possums. The first night, they were all over the place. It was bizarre, but it didn’t worry me as I had my reward. It was a long walk out but I had all day!
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