Outdoor sport is better with good friends. Solitude does have its perks but if you get injured or lost, you will be in trouble alone.
Hunters and Anglers depend upon friends for support, encouragement, and emergencies.
Teamwork to stalk an elk or net a big fish rely on good friends knowing what to do. Communication is key and this skillevolves over time.
Friendships can go south. Not every friendship lasts forever. Forgiveness for mistakes, mis- spoken thoughts, criticism, or bad behavior is not always easy. Some friendships/ relationships simply run their course. People change.
Nurture Good Friendships Hunting and angling buddies should not just be called in season. Try and stay in touch year around. Celebrate events, birthdays, holidays, and gatherings together. There are many ways to stay in touch.
Good friends share intimate moments with you. Harvesting a big game critter, a huge fish, or surviving a great or tough adventure make friendships stronger. Knowing that your friend has your back is comforting and personal.
Friends are not perfect. Even the best friends have issues with each other. You may need to be accommodating, patient, or compromising. Pick and choose your concerns and decide if these are worth losing a friend over.
Somed “Friends” are just users. They tolerate you for access to a hunting or fishing spot. Maybe you have equipment or gear that they want to use. They realize that your skills help them tag or limit out. They selfishly benefit from your catering to them.
Friends come and go! A lifetime friend is rare. Cherish these special connections. There are so many things that can ruin a friendship. Marriages destroy many friendships. Spouses rarely want to compete with a friend that takes their partner away. People move, health happens, things just change.
Just remember, to have a friend, be a friend!
Montana Grant
