Rob's post about "after the shot" made me think of another topic that was hot last season...being proud of whatever animal you harvest. I can't remember how many times I remember seeing a post where someone stated "It is only a doe..." or "It was only a 4 point..." as if there was something wrong with harvesting a doe or a "small racked" buck. This shouldn't be the case. We should be proud of whatever we harvest and we should support and congratulate our fellow hunters whenever and whatever they manage to take this season.

Not all of us are fortunate enough to have the time, location or interest in harvesting a big buck. Is the "wash of emotions" any less for a beginning hunter who shoots his first doe? I think not. Or how about the hunter who is only looking to put some meat in the freezer? Each person comes from a different situation and a different set of priorities..not to mention skill level.

Every deer, bear, etc.. that is harvested this year is a trophy.