“The Shot I’ll Never Forget”
If you ask me what my favorite place in the world is, I won’t say the beach or the mall—I’ll say the land my dad and I hunt on. It’s not behind our house, but it feels like home. It’s where we’ve spent countless weekends and early mornings together, working, learning, and living out a tradition that’s been in our family for generations.
This year’s deer season has been something we’ve been preparing for all summer—and honestly, for years. My dad and I have worked so hard to improve the land. We’ve planted food plots, installed solar-powered feeders, and set up camera systems to monitor the herd. We feed the deer year-round with forage and high-protein food, not just to attract them, but to help them grow strong and stay healthy. It’s all part of conservation and herd management—something my dad taught me to take seriously.
We don’t hunt just to hunt. We hunt with purpose. We’ve watched one special buck grow over the past few seasons, and it’s been amazing to see how he’s matured. We’ve let younger deer walk, knowing they’ll have their time. That’s what selective harvest is all about—making smart choices so the herd stays balanced and healthy.
I think it’s so important for kids and teens to learn how to hunt. It teaches you patience, responsibility, and respect for nature. It’s not just about getting a deer—it’s about understanding the land, the animals, and the tradition. I feel proud to be part of something that’s been passed down through generations.
And then came the moment I’ll never forget.
It was early morning, the woods were quiet, and I was in the stand with my dad. I had my great grandfather’s 1956 Marlin Model 336, chambered in 30-30, resting in my hands. That rifle is more than just a gun—it’s a piece of family history. At 65 yards, the buck stepped out. My heart was racing, but I took a deep breath, aimed, and made the perfect shot.
I couldn’t believe it. I was shaking, smiling, maybe even crying a little. My dad hugged me and told me how proud he was. It was the most thrilling moment of my life.
I’m so grateful to my dad—not just for teaching me how to hunt, but for showing me how to work hard, care deeply, and respect the world around me. I know I’m the luckiest girl in the world to have him by my side.
To anyone out there who’s just starting out—don’t give up. Learn everything you can. Respect the land. And cherish every moment, because hunting isn’t just about the harvest—it’s about the journey, the memories, and the people you share it with.
Hunter’s name: Abby Pruitt
Spartanburg South Carolina
Spartanburg Carolina
09/13/2025
8-point buck