Adventure is part of our caveman DNA

When stalking deer with a close friend, there’s often no need for discussion, says Will O’Meara, everything is a case of instinct

- Will O’Meara

Season’s end draws close so it’s a time to knuckle down to hit those cull targets and top up the freezer. But here are also other priorities, such as an overdue catch-up with a hunting buddy and no better way to catch up than a trip to the hill. My good friend and former Special Forces brother Mick Craven is back from an extended stint of working abroad and we are set for a day hunting sika on the mountain.

Mick and I have hunted together a lot and whether it’s Norway for reindeer, reds out west or sika closer to home, we always have a blast. We’ve also trained and worked together so we know how to operate effectively as a team.

School drop-off complete, gear loaded and fresh coffee in hand, we drive the short distance to our start point. The chat is in full flow as we haven’t met up in an age. As we cross the high mountain pass, the valley below opens to view, early-morning sunshine illuminating its glory. I can tell from Mick’s tone of exclamation that his lack of hunting opportunities this year is irking him. As we descend the winding mountain road, we get to discussing the work-life balance and how, for the likes of us, that needs to include hunting and adventure as an essential element.

With rifles slung, we start our trek upwards but we have oncoming traffic in the form of low cloud and a light mist — less than ideal. It’s the final day so we aren’t going to let a drop of rain get in the way of a good stalk. As we round a bend in the track, the mountain before us opens up to view, a great spot to glass from.