Seeing Through the Chase: Tracking Wounded Game After a Pass-Through

There's a knot in your stomach that settles deep when you see an arrow pass right through a deer. It's a feeling that transcends the excitement of the hunt – a sudden, stark responsibility. It’s the moment when the fair chase isn’t just about the pursuit; it’s about the follow-through. Like David facing Goliath, we're called to face the consequences of our actions, and in the hunt, that means tracking and recovering an animal, even when things don't go as planned.

The video circulating recently highlights this reality – a clean pass-through, and the immediate question: where do you go from here? It's a situation every hunter hopes to avoid, but one we must be prepared for. Josh Austin, our Founding Guide, often emphasizes the importance of being honest with yourself in the field. Recognizing a miss or a pass-through isn’t failure; it's a chance to learn and demonstrate true respect for the animal.

The hunter in the video quickly points out the advantage of seeing the arrow exit – a visual marker in the pursuit. It's a key piece of information. The track becomes clearer, the direction more defined. But what if you don't have that luxury? What if the arrow disappears into the undergrowth?

Here’s what we can learn, echoing lessons from Steven Rinella and the MeatEater crew, and reinforced by the practical experience of outfitters like Lone Canyon Outfitters:

• Blood Sign is King: Obvious, but crucial. Focus on blood drops, smears, and hair. The size and color of the drops can tell you a lot about the animal’s condition and direction of travel.
• Consider the Angle: Think about your shot angle. A pass-through often means the animal was angled away from you. This will influence the track.
• Wind Direction: The wind is your ally. It carries your scent away from the animal and helps you follow its trail.
• Time is of the Essence: Wounded animals don't stay put. The sooner you start tracking, the better your chances of recovery. Cameron Hanes constantly stresses this in his videos – a wounded animal will cover ground.
• Don’t Rush: While urgency is important, rushing can lead to missed sign. Move deliberately and methodically. Hushin’s Joel and Logan Hennig are masters of slow, deliberate tracking.
• Respect the Animal: Even if the recovery is difficult, remember that you have a responsibility to provide for the meat. Randy Newberg often speaks to this – the hunt isn’t just about the trophy; it’s about sustenance and stewardship.

The Jeremiah 16:16 passage, “out of the holes of the rocks,” resonates here. Josh, pulled from his work mining precious metals, understands the tenacity required to pursue what’s hidden. Tracking a wounded animal is often like that – a relentless search in difficult terrain. It requires grit, patience, and an unwavering commitment to the principles of fair chase.

Remember, the Stripling Hunter, just like David, must face his Goliaths. This isn’t about bravado; it's about preparation, skill, and a deep respect for the wild. If you’re new to this, consider signing up for a youth hunter-education chapter near you – it’s invaluable training.

Right now, if you're looking to draw for next year’s elk hunt in Colorado, the application deadline is fast approaching. Or, if you're interested in joining Josh for a Bookcliffs trip, contact Lone Canyon Outfitters directly. They're offering some incredible opportunities to hone your fieldcraft.