Reflecting on the Hunting Season While Cleaning My Rifles

S1E45 of "The Something in the Wild Podcast"

As the snow falls lightly outside and the year begins to wind down, there’s a particular satisfaction in sitting down to clean my rifles. It’s a ritual that marks the close of another hunting season—a time to reflect on the stories, triumphs, and lessons learned over the past months. There’s something almost poetic about the meticulous process of wiping down barrels and oiling actions while the memories of early mornings and quiet forests play out in your mind like a highlight reel.

This season was a grind—a whirlwind of preparation, persistence, and moments that left me humbled and inspired. From chasing elk in the rugged backcountry of Colorado to navigating the whitetail woods of Pennsylvania, every hunt offered its own unique challenges and rewards. And what better time to revisit those memories than now, with tools in hand and the scent of gun oil in the air?

A Season of Elk and Adventure

The first rifle I’m cleaning today is my muzzleloader, which saw action during the mid-September elk season in Colorado. This trip was one for the books. I had drawn a coveted tag in a prime unit and made the 24-hour drive west with my dad and my buddy Matt. It’s amazing how the miles melt away when you’re sharing stories, swapping strategies, and dreaming of bugling bulls.

The hunt began as all great adventures do—with a sense of wonder and optimism. We set up camp in a mountain saddle, surrounded by stunning basins and endless possibilities. Within moments of stepping out of the truck, we spotted a massive bull moose. While not our quarry, it felt like a good omen.

The days that followed were filled with hard hiking, glassing, and encounters with mule deer, cow elk, and even a black bear. On the final day, just as we were beginning to feel the weight of an unfilled tag, a bull elk came crashing through the timber. The excitement was electric, but the setup wasn’t in my favor. Despite being within range, the opportunity slipped away. It was a heartbreaker, but as I’ve learned, that’s hunting. The pursuit itself—the camaraderie, the challenge, and the connection to the wild—is the true reward.

Back Home in Pennsylvania

Returning to Pennsylvania, my focus shifted to whitetails. Archery season offered an abundance of sightings but no shots within range. As the rut kicked in, I doubled down, hunting almost daily after work. Yet, the pressure of other hunters seemed to drive the deer deep into cover. Despite the frustrations, every outing brought its own sense of peace and purpose.

Then came rifle season, and with it, a new set of challenges. Scope issues plagued me early on, but I worked through them, determined to make every shot count. Hunting in Potter County’s backwoods provided a change of scenery and some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever experienced. While I didn’t fill my tag, the lessons learned and moments spent in nature were more than enough to fill my cup.

Wrapping Up the Season

As I tighten the last screw on my rifle and set it aside for storage, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Hunting isn’t just about harvesting game; it’s about the journey, the stories, and the bonds formed along the way. It’s about learning from each outing and carrying those lessons into the next season.

This winter, my focus will shift to small game, fishing, and preparing for next year. I’ll spend time in the woods cutting shooting lanes, scouting new areas, and ensuring my gear is in top shape. The offseason is just as important as the hunt itself, providing time to reflect, plan, and dream about what’s to come.

So, as I close the chapter on this season, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your own adventures. Whether you’ve had a banner year or one filled with challenges, there’s always something to learn and appreciate. And as always, let’s keep it wild.