By Ben Romans

Remember a few days ago when I asked about your best big-game hunting moment? Or when I thought the imaginary fat lady was singing her tune at the end of the deer season? I have to admit, I was getting close to throwing in the towel for the fall. However, the odds shifted into my favor at the last minute, and over the holiday, I was able to accomplish the impossible—create one of my best hunting memories and mute the fat lady’s tune.

My father and I skipped Thanksgiving dinner this year and migrated up to hunting camp Wednesday night. Over the course of the next 3 ½ days we saw over 100 elk and some nice mule deer. I called in some yipping coyotes, and my dad had a run-in with a mountain lion. But the best part was having (another) opportunity to fill my tag. The day after Turkey Day I leveled the iron sights of my muzzleloader on a nice cow elk. After the shot, she retired within a stone’s throw of a level logging road that zig-zagged back to the truck. Fortunately, we planned ahead and brought a sled, and after quartering the animal, I loaded up the meat and dragged it all out in one hike. Most certainly the easiest pack out I’ve ever had. I barely broke a sweat.

I know some people like Black Friday for the holiday shopping deals. I, however, think it’s my new “lucky day.” This is the second time I’ve been able to pack out an elk on the day after Thanksgiving. If this is the start of a trend, you can be sure I’m going to pass on holiday festivities. Late season elk hunting certainly trumps turkey any day! —Ben