Perseverance and the Mountain: Lessons from a New Zealand Stag Hunt

There's a thread woven through all honest hunting – a recognition that the wild doesn’t owe us anything. It demands respect, resilience, and a willingness to push beyond what feels comfortable. Watching JE Wilds’ recent New Zealand stag hunt, I was struck by this truth, and how it resonates with the core values of the Rogue Hunters community.

Wilds’ video isn’t just about bagging a trophy deer; it's about the journey, the struggle, and the quiet satisfaction of perseverance in the face of adversity. It’s the same grit Josh Austin, our Founding Guide, talks about when describing the challenges of working a hard-rock mine – a place, he says, where you learn to appreciate the simple things.

The hunt itself was dictated by the whims of the weather. Thick cloud cover consistently obscured the landscape, forcing Wilds to adapt his strategy and lower his elevation. He didn’t bemoan the conditions; he adjusted, made the best of it, and kept pushing forward. That’s the mark of a true hunter – one who understands that the hunt isn’t always about a clean shot and a quick retrieval. It's about facing the realities of the wilderness and finding a way to honor the pursuit, even when it’s difficult.

There's a certain beauty in that resilience, a parallel to David facing Goliath. It’s not about brute strength, but about the unwavering determination to meet a challenge head-on, even when seemingly outmatched. That’s what Jeremiah 16:16 describes – finding sustenance and strength in the most unexpected places, emerging from the “holes of the rocks” prepared to face what lies ahead. Wilds’ ability to find opportunity even amidst the cloud cover exemplifies that principle.

Beyond the immediate pursuit of the stag, the video offered a glimpse into the practicalities of backcountry hunting. From his MSR Access tent, chosen for its ability to withstand harsh weather, to the Therma Rest sleeping pad providing crucial insulation, Wilds demonstrated a thoughtful approach to gear selection. He also emphasized the importance of reliable water sources and a good cup of coffee to keep morale high – a small comfort that can make a big difference in a challenging environment.

What struck me most, however, was the quiet confidence and humility that permeated the entire video. It wasn’t a boastful display of skill, but a genuine appreciation for the opportunity to experience the wild. That's the spirit we strive for in the Rogue Hunters community – a respect for the resource, a dedication to fair chase, and a willingness to share our experiences with others.

Whether you’re pursuing elk in the Rockies, mule deer on public land, or chasing waterfowl with a retriever, the lessons from Wilds’ New Zealand hunt are universal. It's a reminder that the pursuit itself is often more valuable than the prize, and that perseverance, even in the face of adversity, is the key to unlocking the true rewards of the hunt.

If you’re looking to test your own resolve, consider a trip to Bookcliffs with Josh Austin. He’ll push you, challenge you, and teach you the skills you need to thrive in the wild. Or, if you’re interested in honing your skills, check out your local youth hunter-education chapter – equipping the next generation with the knowledge and ethics to carry on this tradition.