Stags and Stories

Stags and Stories

It’s that time of year again—Deer Hunting Season is here in Minnesota! Whether you’re gearing up for the big hunt or just soaking in the outdoors, we want to hear about it! Submit your stories here.


Deer Camp

"The alarm goes off and as you lay there the smell hits you... the coffee is starting to percolate. You raise your head from the bunk, still groggy from all the stories told the night before. With a quick glance around you are reminded of where you are and what day it is, it is the opening day of deer season. The shack is already busy with family and friends gathering up their hunting gear, chatting about the forecast, the wind direction and ultimately what stands are best based on the conditions. The elder statesmen have their amazing experience and their trusty spots where they swear the wind doesn't matter. You engage in the conversation, smile and laugh, all while sipping on your coffee and sitting in your long underwear. You realize this camaraderie is what deer camp is all about. A deer walking into your shooting lane is simply a bonus. You strive for the reward of a tenderloin meal but nothing beats the compa­ny and traditions you experience this time of the year. These days the world moves so fast and technology seems to be everything but during this special time of the year, deer hunting tradition takes over. You unplug from the real world and take in stories around a woodstove. The old deer stands and old traditions bring you back to a place like no other. You are connected to the land and the true beauty nature holds. All you need is your watch, your trusty compass and the rifle your family has handed down from generation-to-generation.

Someone yells, "Hurry up! It will be light out soon!" Everyone quickly scrambles to gather the last few items while trying to drink one last sip of coffee. They stuff their pockets with everything they'll need if and hopefully when that elusive buck makes an appear­ance. You lace up the boots and head out the door. You take one last look around at all the blaze-orange figures walking in all directions. The feeling hits you. 

This is Minnesota Deer Season. This is Deer Camp. 
You take a deep breath of the crisp morning air, chamber your lucky round and venture off into the pre-dawn woods."

- Issue 1: Lake and Company Magazine 


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