The season’s finally upon us, and the woods are calling. August 15th marked a strong beginning—a gathering of new members, the release of 80 birds in Yuba and 50 more at Whiteford. We’ve set up ten water troughs at Yuba, seven at Whiteford, with more to come. The lanes are mowed, Phase 2 is being stumped, and soon enough, after a few more warm days, we’ll find ourselves deep in the heart of prime fall upland country.

The work we’ve put in all summer is about to show its worth. Cali, our 2.5-year-old Huntsman Club trained dog, has been right on point. After three solid training runs following our first hunt on 8/24, she’s as sharp as ever. Jak, at just 6 months, is coming along like a seasoned veteran, flushing and finding birds with natural skill. After just three hunts, he’s now retrieving with boundless energy. Watching them work the fields, seeing their instinct kick in—it reminds me of why we do this. It’s not just about the birds we take, but the connection to the land, the dogs, and the hunt. Out here, we’re part of the wild, part of something ancient and true.

We’ve prepared well. The birds are out there, the dogs are ready, and soon we’ll be walking those fields, feeling the earth beneath our boots and the anticipation in the air. But remember, the work is never done. There’s always another hunt, another lesson, another moment to savor. Get your bird orders in early—we’ve only got so many, and we want to make sure there’s enough for everyone. If you’re a full paid member and not on the WhatsApp chat yet, let me know so we can stay connected as we move through the season.

We’ll be hanging tree stands soon, getting ready for the next phase of the hunt. And as we prepare, let’s keep in mind the deeper meaning behind it all. It’s not just the thrill of the chase—it’s about respect. Respect for the land, for the game we pursue, and for the bond we share as hunters. Out here, we walk in the footsteps of those who came before us, and we honor them with every step we take, every bird we flush, and every arrow we release.

So as we step into this season, let’s make it one to remember. Keep your arrows sharp, your aim steady, and your heart humble. The best hunts are the ones yet to come, and they’ll be waiting for us out there in the fields.