I don't go (hiking or on machine, if alone). that I can't hike out of. About 10-15 miles, depending. Now. I used to be dumber.... younger.... more fit... But I would do it again if I could.
I don't kill stuff I don't have a plan and surity to get out. (It ain't the "hunting" - it's the "getting chit out" that determines the parameters)
I'm not as tough (tho I'd like to be) as that 73 year old Eskimo guy I picked up a couple years back, 8 miles down the beach from town. His ATV had bogged down 40 miles out of Kotzebue 2 days before. He drank all my water, passed on the candy bars.
I'm just a few (many?) steps slower than I was at 35.... 35 years ago - and I was in great shape then.
That doesn't mean I'm any smarter....
. Slower hunting, not necessarily easier.
My mind lately ain't confabbing with the body. I listen to the body. Mostly.
I can kill with anything, regardless of caliber, that I am competent with, within reason.
My son, overweight, and 5K higher than me, was less able than I, not just to this, but as said, mentally. I KNOW I can hack that Co elk hunt, if somewhat slower than I was 30 years ago. Or 10 years ago, when I did take an elk there. He was worried about me getting altitude sickness which is not in my vocab! Tho I will fold like a house of cards if I experience it...
Old age and treachery.....
I suspect he doesn't have the mental attitude for another elk hunt, but we will see. And he better get in better physical condition if he does. Or find easier hunting.
