World Tour Update #13

CenTexTim - 1
New Zealand Red Stag - 0

Managed to bag a trophy class red stag today. 23 points and somewhere in the neighborhood of a 350 B&C score. Pix later if I have the time and can master the technology.

Spot and stalk hunting. Long hard stalk (actually, several stalks - the first few didn't pan out). This country is incredibly beautiful, but also incredibly rugged. And it's all vertical - no level ground anywhere.

We're about 4500 feet above sea level, which added to my shortness of breath. Finally worked our way close enough to get a shot off - about 230 yards. Had to shoot from a sitting position - heavy scrub brush but nothing sturdy enough to use as a rest, plus I was on a downslope, so I couldn't go prone. Still managed to put one through his shoulder using a borrowed rifle (a sweet little Sako .308 topped with a Leopuld scope).

As a bonus I also harvested a wild pig. Nothing like the feral hogs back home. This one was less impressive but more tasty.

Celebrated with copious amounts of good New Zealand beer and wine, along with a hearty dinner. Bed is calling - more later...