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We had a great time yesterday at the Big Buck Expo presented by Southern Trophy Hunters in Lakeland, FL. It is always great to be in a place where all types of people share a passion for the best sport on earth, hunting. There was a great turn out among participants, exhibitors and outfitters. It’s pretty cool to see the latest and greatest of what the outdoors has to offer: from products to get us closer to wild game, to food preparation, to clothing, to some cool mounts. My family makes this an annual event, after all, a family that hunts together, stays together.
The one feature that stuck out most in my mind was a guest speaker by the name of Billy Berger. More and more now, you hear hunters reverting back to the basics of hunting and utilizing only the bow for their weapon of choice. Billy takes it one step further and only hunts with a wooden bow, hand crafted by no-one else but him. Not only does he hand craft his bows from materials found, he also makes his own arrows, fletching, and arrowheads. The arrowheads that he uses are handcrafted out of chert, flint,agate, obsidian, and even hand-made glass. And yes, these are just as effective as today’s technology.
We shared stories amongst each other about hunting and how challenging it can be at times. Going primitive just makes the odds a little more tough to be successful. Getting close to game is just the start of the physical challenge. It’s amazing how successful the Indians were at harvesting animals for food. Could you imagine how fast we would starve to death if we solely relied on this type of hunting today. For the indians, it was all they knew, it was just their way of surviving.
We discussed how much practice plays as a key role in making sure that when one opportunity presents itself, you will be ready to make an ethical shot. Your success rate is not as high as if you were using the technology available today, but when you are successful, its like winning the mega million lottery. I am a strong supporter of going back to the basics, becoming a true hunter and gatherer; living off the land physically and nutritionally I commend Billy Berger for his passion as a true primitive archer and reaching back to the ancient warrior. Thanks Billy for the inspiration. I look forward to staying in touch with you.