The season is breathing life into the woods, and you can feel it with every step. The air is crisp, the leaves are ablaze with color, and there’s that familiar crackle underfoot that tells you the best days are right around the corner. We’ve already put 225 birds behind us, but the work isn’t done—far from it. The rhythm of the hunt, the sights and smells of the field, it all pulls a man in. It’s a time to be grateful, to be part of something bigger than yourself.
There’s no better sight than watching the dogs move through the field, their noses low, bodies taut with excitement as they pick up the scent. Cali and Jak—they were born for this. You can see it in the way they work, every movement purposeful. One minute, the field is still, and the next, pheasants burst from the brush, wings beating hard against the autumn air. It’s a sight that stirs something deep in every hunter. The challenge of the shot, the rush of the moment—it’s all part of a dance as old as time itself.
Archery season is in full swing, and firearm season is closing in fast. The deer are moving, the food plots are strong, and the trail cameras are showing us the way. We’re aiming to harvest does this season at both Yuba and Whiteford, and Jay has placed those stands just right. They’re not just good vantage points; they’re part of the woods themselves—blending in, becoming one with the environment. Now’s the time to climb up there, sit quiet, and let the forest come to life around you.
But we’re not just thinking about today—we’re laying the foundation for tomorrow. Phase 2 of the ground clearing is underway, and come 2025, we’ll have another 40 acres planted, ensuring that this preserve continues to grow and thrive for future generations. We owe it to those who came before us, and to those who will come after.
On October 17th, from 5 to 6 PM, we’ll be holding a new member orientation. If you know anyone who belongs in the woods, someone who feels that same pull, bring them along. It’s not just about the hunt—it’s about tradition, connection, and being part of a place where those things still matter.
And remember, I’m here to help set up your hunts. The dogs are eager, the pheasants are flying, and the deer are moving through the woods. This is more than just hunting. It’s about the memories we make, the bond with the land, and the connection with our dogs. This is what it means to be a hunter. Let’s make the most of it while the season is here.
