This reads a lot like a "Dear Abby" letter in my head so hear we go....
Dear Fellow Hunters,
Against all odds I didn't draw my rut muzzy tag this year and ended up with a rifle post-rut tag. Conversely, one of my best hunting brothers drew the muzzy tag. I've been e-scouting for my tag which I will be largely going solo for. There are a bunch of buddies that will be hunting out of a family cabin for my season, and I'm welcome and encouraged to join. But, as much as I love them, I need to hunt hard, and don't need to get caught up in the late night drinking, truck hunting, and lack of dedication that exists there. I'm out of state and coming from about as far east as you can get, and still be in America. My wallet, my wife, and my newborn daughter can only bear one western adventure this year. My question is, am I crazy for returning my tag and accompanying my compadre on his muzzy hunt as designated caller/Sherpa/camp cook/fly fisherman? He's never killed a bull despite a couple of good chances and I can't think of much that would make me happier as an elk hunter than being a part of his first bull? (And the selflessness of the whole idea gives me a darn case of the warm and fuzzys inside) Any and all input and support to either decision is appreciated!
Sincerely,
Conflicted in Carolina
Dear Fellow Hunters,
Against all odds I didn't draw my rut muzzy tag this year and ended up with a rifle post-rut tag. Conversely, one of my best hunting brothers drew the muzzy tag. I've been e-scouting for my tag which I will be largely going solo for. There are a bunch of buddies that will be hunting out of a family cabin for my season, and I'm welcome and encouraged to join. But, as much as I love them, I need to hunt hard, and don't need to get caught up in the late night drinking, truck hunting, and lack of dedication that exists there. I'm out of state and coming from about as far east as you can get, and still be in America. My wallet, my wife, and my newborn daughter can only bear one western adventure this year. My question is, am I crazy for returning my tag and accompanying my compadre on his muzzy hunt as designated caller/Sherpa/camp cook/fly fisherman? He's never killed a bull despite a couple of good chances and I can't think of much that would make me happier as an elk hunter than being a part of his first bull? (And the selflessness of the whole idea gives me a darn case of the warm and fuzzys inside) Any and all input and support to either decision is appreciated!
Sincerely,
Conflicted in Carolina