First Fever

As fathers, we are constantly searching for moments that will leave a lasting impact on our children—experiences that bond us and impart valuable life lessons. As outdoorsmen, one of the best ways to do this is by introducing our sons to our passions; to the great outdoors and the thrill of hunting. Recently, I had the privilege of witnessing this firsthand when my six-year-old son, Brixen, harvested his first deer—a stunning 8-point buck.

On a crisp late November evening, we climbed into our stand. In a clearing on my fathers land, we were surrounded by the earthy aroma of damp leaves and the anticipation of adventure. As the sun dipped below the trees, the woods fell silent, creating a sense of anticipation that heightened our senses. I spotted movement in the brush—a mature buck stepping cautiously into the clearing. Brixen noticed it as well, immediately patting my leg to ensure I had seen.

Brixen leaned forward looking through the scope, his heart racing with the thrill of his first buck fever. It was then that I felt the adrenaline surge through both of us, a shared excitement that would create a bond we would cherish forever.

As I reached to help steady the shot, he asserted confidently “I’m on him”. I flipped the safety of and before I could finish the words “whenever your ready…”, the crack of the crossbow shattered the stillness, and time seemed to freeze. With excitement he exclaimed “I got him”, now we were on to the next lesson, patience. We waited a few minutes, then made our way back up to the house to tell Papaw the good news. Papaw excitedly joined in on the search as we tracked the blood through the woods to find Brixen’s incredible buck lying a short distance away in a field. He eagerly ran to the animal, studying it carefully and beaming with pride.

Hunting is more than just the pursuit of game; it teaches young boys invaluable lessons about responsibility, patience, and respect for nature. It fosters a sense of adventure and builds confidence as they learn to navigate the wild. For Brixen, this hunt was a significant step into a world filled with excitement, challenges, and respect for wildlife. It is a core memory that he and I, and Papaw with cherish for a lifetime.

As fathers, we have an incredible opportunity to guide our sons through these experiences. Taking them outdoors not only strengthens our relationships but also instills a love for the outdoors that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s hunting, fishing, or simply exploring the great outdoors, each adventure becomes a stepping stone in their growth.

So, I encourage you to take your son out into nature. Make memories that will last a lifetime and introduce him to the joys and responsibilities that come with being a steward of the great outdoors. Together, you can share the thrill of the hunt, the beauty of the landscape, and the lessons that nature has to offer. As you embark on this journey, remember that every outing is an opportunity to inspire and connect with your child in ways that will shape them for years to come. The great outdoors awaits—let’s make the most of it.