SNS Office Manager Ambrosia Wagner recently had the chance to experience something truly special: her son Gavin’s first antelope hunt. Taking a kid hunting is a meaningful milestone for any parent or grandparent, and this season we’ve been fortunate to see several hunters bring along their kids or grandkids to share the experience.
An antelope hunt is a fantastic way to introduce young hunters to the world of western big game. We caught up with 14-year-old Gavin to hear all about his first successful antelope hunt. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Gavin, had you ever been on an antelope hunt before this?
Gavin: I’ve gone along on antelope hunts with my stepdad and grandpa before, but this was the first time I killed one myself.
Q: What other types of hunts have you been part of with your family?
Gavin: I’ve had the chance to go on hunts for elk, deer, pheasant, and upland game. This weekend, I’m going out for sandhill crane.
Q: What was the most memorable part of this hunt?
Gavin: The stalk was really exciting. The buck was kind of spooked when we first saw him, and he led us on a good chase. It took about two hours of driving, hiking, and crawling before I finally got him.
Q: What was your favorite part of the whole experience?
Gavin: It was super windy that day, and I missed a couple shots because of it. But the best part was when I finally hit him—I saw him rear up and I knew I got him. I was relieved and happy.
Q: What advice would you give to someone else going on their first antelope hunt?
Gavin: Be patient and make sure you take good shots.
Q: Final question—what’s your favorite wild game meal?
Gavin: Elk steak with garlic parmesan noodles!
A big thanks to Gavin for sharing his story—and congratulations on your first Wyoming buck!
If you're considering a western big game hunt for your family, antelope hunts are a great way to get young hunters started. For more information about our Wyoming or Montana hunts, visit HuntWyo.com, request a free brochure, or call us anytime at 307-266-4229.