A Season
Thinking back on the upland bird season from here in the extreme northeast corner of Oklahoma, I must say considering all things, a good one.
Beautiful country and the start to a few friendships, an old man of a setter and a young pup full of vim and vigor coupled with a positive attitude—make for a good mix.
We searched for bird holding cover in two states coming up short in any close by areas. By close by, I mean within 2 hours. It seems that the states may be a bit ‘too’ optimistic regarding bird opportunities in places. Habitat, weather and the realities of change do not make way for optimism. Facts are stubborn things and do not give way to hope or anticipations.
Having said this—there is reward to the searching and of course, watching the dogs excitement when the tires hit the gravel roads.
My heart also begins to race at the sound of thrown gravel and the rumble felt through the seat and wheel.
Its part of the adventure and never to be considered a waste of time spent.
Like all of us that pursue such things, back home in New Hampshire, I spent many years, tire tread and boot leather searching for likely bird cover and the honey holes such cover may reveal.
We are starting all over again in this strange and so different land.
“Older now and still running against the wind”.
We give many thanks to those friendly and unselfish souls who have offered suggestions and more.
Thank you.
Next season is just around the corner of a hot summer to come. May all of you and your four-legged friends have a fine and healthy time between the seasons.
A book or two to read, memories freshened with pictures and conversations of the last and the next.
Of Upland Birds, Setters and Trout 