Hi everyone. I hope you're all doing well.
While taking a much needed getaway in Eastern Oregon over the weekend, and out of cell range, my phone blew up with messages when I got back into range asking if I had purchased raffle tickets for antelope. Indeed I had, though never expecting to actually be selected. After driving to a town that had internet service I checked my entries and sure enough, right there in black and white my number got called. I was in disbelief, and still am. I definitely would not consider myself a lucky person, but even a blind squirrel happens upon a nut every now and again I suppose.
I'm writing to seek advice on this tag, from those of you who have had a tag like this before, know someone who has, or have insight or tips regarding the hunt and expectations. I realize that many might put pressure on themselves to take the biggest animal in the state of Oregon, but in all honesty that's where my head is at on any hunt, even this one. As I've gotten older, I value the experiences and memories more than size of horn or antler. Obviously, I would be lying if I said I didn't want to tag a big goat, but it's not the end-all, be-all.
I will undoubtedly scout, but I don't have time to devote my entire summer and fall traveling the countryside to find "the one." If anything I think that only adds to the pressure one might feel towards taking an animal of specific size. I have some connections and folks who can provide intel on goats and keep an eye on their whereabouts, and will rely on their help throughout scouting and the hunt. I have direct, and indirect experience hunting antelope in the following units: Malheur River, Maury, Owhyee, Whitehorse, and West Beatys. I've been to Hart Mt several times, but only for recreation, not hunting. Some tell me that it's "not what it used to be" or that the antelope there aren't the biggest, but again, that's not really a high priority. Hart Mt, the Beatys units, Warner and Juniper are on my radar, though I'm obviously receptive to any and all units that would make for a memorable hunt.
If any of you would be willing to share intel, advice, photos, resources or any information that would make this hunt memorable for me and my family who will be joining me I'd be forever indebted. Feel free to P.M.
Thanks in advance, and take care.
Nate Parker
While taking a much needed getaway in Eastern Oregon over the weekend, and out of cell range, my phone blew up with messages when I got back into range asking if I had purchased raffle tickets for antelope. Indeed I had, though never expecting to actually be selected. After driving to a town that had internet service I checked my entries and sure enough, right there in black and white my number got called. I was in disbelief, and still am. I definitely would not consider myself a lucky person, but even a blind squirrel happens upon a nut every now and again I suppose.
I'm writing to seek advice on this tag, from those of you who have had a tag like this before, know someone who has, or have insight or tips regarding the hunt and expectations. I realize that many might put pressure on themselves to take the biggest animal in the state of Oregon, but in all honesty that's where my head is at on any hunt, even this one. As I've gotten older, I value the experiences and memories more than size of horn or antler. Obviously, I would be lying if I said I didn't want to tag a big goat, but it's not the end-all, be-all.
I will undoubtedly scout, but I don't have time to devote my entire summer and fall traveling the countryside to find "the one." If anything I think that only adds to the pressure one might feel towards taking an animal of specific size. I have some connections and folks who can provide intel on goats and keep an eye on their whereabouts, and will rely on their help throughout scouting and the hunt. I have direct, and indirect experience hunting antelope in the following units: Malheur River, Maury, Owhyee, Whitehorse, and West Beatys. I've been to Hart Mt several times, but only for recreation, not hunting. Some tell me that it's "not what it used to be" or that the antelope there aren't the biggest, but again, that's not really a high priority. Hart Mt, the Beatys units, Warner and Juniper are on my radar, though I'm obviously receptive to any and all units that would make for a memorable hunt.
If any of you would be willing to share intel, advice, photos, resources or any information that would make this hunt memorable for me and my family who will be joining me I'd be forever indebted. Feel free to P.M.
Thanks in advance, and take care.
Nate Parker