Why I Hunt - Adrenalin
Posted by Bryan on October 24, 2007
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This post is part of the ongoing “Why I Hunt” series.
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Ask any hunter about the ‘rush’ that occurs as a buck approaches, and he or she will undoubtedly tell you it’s like no other ‘high’ they’ve known. A primary cause of this rush is adrenalin, and it’s another reason why I hunt.
I definitely wouldn’t lump hunters into the category of “Thrill-seekers”. You know, people who jump off cliffs or out of planes, or stuff like that. Granted, I’ve done my share of thrill-seeking in my day: bungee jumping, jumping off of a 70 foot bridge into a river, etc. However, the adrenalin rush that occurs during a hunt is so much different. It’s coupled with peace and anticipation, and if I don’t experience the rush I won’t stop hunting. That is, I don’t hunt for the Adrenalin rush, but if it occurs (i.e., if I see a buck), it’s icing on the cake.
I mentioned before that many hunters will describe the hunting rush as being better than any other high. To illustrate this point, I want to share a story about a hunting guide I once met; his name was Fred. During our hunt, Fred shared his story with me. He talked about how he used to ride be a wild biker and a drug addict. Fred had experienced most ‘highs’ of this world. Fred added that as he started to straighten out his life, he missed the ‘highs’ of his old life…and then Fred discovered hunting. Here’s a quote from Fred as we finished tracking my first wild boar:
”(Loud holler). That’s it buddy! You did it! I get the shakes and I’m not even hunting right now…this is the best feeling in the world! You know, I’ve been drunk and high and everything in between, and I wouldn’t trade this feeling right now for any of that!”
I guess sometimes Adrenalin can be our worst nightmare too, such as when our shaking legs inhibit us from implementing a successful and ethical shot. But that’s one of the glories of hunting. You’ve got to master your prey and yourself to be good.
Here’s to the rush…and here’s to guys like Fred…
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The rush is really like no other. To go from being so relaxed and everything so peaceful to that natural high is incredible. I’ve been addicted ever since my first time. It sure keeps you coming back!
Nothing like it in the whole world.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:35 am
You jumped off a 70 foot high bridge into a river? Are you nuts?
I haven’t personally experienced this adrenalin rush, but I’ve heard about it from others.
October 24th, 2007 at 12:35 pm
Hi, I’m BuckNakedFever and I hunt for the high……….now show me to the free cookies.
They will never know what it’s like. Of all the dumb and crazy stuff that I’ve done that got my heart racing not once has it ever been comparable to the rush that comes from hunting. To me it’s a thrilling sensation that resonates deep from within you and even continues for a little while after the hunt is over.
October 24th, 2007 at 1:34 pm
Oh heck, I get that adrenalin rush when a Doe walks in never mind a buck. That sort of adrenalin rush is unforgettable and once you have experience it you want it again. It truly is addicting like Arthur had said.
To be out there while a deer ( buck or doe ) is walking into your location and have your heart beat so hard that you think it is going to pop is an awesome feeling if that makes any sense.
I still get that way after hunting deer for what will be my seventeenth season.
I hope to get that feeling soon once my season opens which will be in 2 weeks 6 days 15 hours and 53 minutes
October 24th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
This is one of the reasons I gave recently when I explained hunting to my daughter. I told her that I believe it is our hunting instinct, buried deeply for many years, coming to the surface. It is an incredible feeling, a feeling of being wildly alive.
Whether it is a cackling pheasant exploding from the grass at your feet, the glimmer of first light on the tail fur of a fox squirrel high in the canopy, or the unmistakeable step of a whitetail deer on fallen autumn leaves, my body instantly transforms into something remembered from long ago. My senses are astute. My heart pounds strong and fast. Adrenaline courses through my veins. I am the Hunter.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
I love the reactions of all of you hunters (and yes, Kristine, I will group you in that category because from our readings, it sounds like you’ve got it in you!). Arthur, you’re right on. It’s the juxtaposition of calmness and the rush that goes unmatched. Kristine, I am nuts, but don’t tell the squirrels! BNF, admitting you’ve got a problem is the first step to recovery! Just kidding of course…but yes, you sound like my buddy Fred! Rick, a doe does it to me also…especially when they stick around after awhile! And Andy, very poetic. I’m so glad you get to share your passions with your daughter!
October 24th, 2007 at 8:56 pm
When I first started hunting I hated adrenaline! I would get “deer fever” and shake so bad that I couldn’t hold the gun steady enough to shoot at a deer that was 30 yards away! Through the years I have learned to control it and now I still get the rush, but I remain focused and calm until after the shot - at that point its time to sit down for a few before my legs give out!
October 25th, 2007 at 8:33 am
Marc, Amen to that! Buck Fever can get the best of all of us. That’s why I have my ongoing series dedicated to this subject (Buck Fever Series). I think that learning to control our emotions and rush is one of the most exciting parts of hunting…we master our prey and ourselves!
Thanks for your comment!
October 25th, 2007 at 10:21 am
I have never jumped out of an airplane and probably never will, however, I have heard that the euphoria is so strong when you first jump that you have no desire to pull the rip cord. I have seen buck fever produce strange and hilarious results including loss of ability to pull the trigger or to release an arrow.
It is a most strange and peculiar phenomena.
Mule Deer Fanatic
http://www.muledeerfanatic.com
October 25th, 2007 at 2:28 pm
Mule Deer…you couldn’t be more correct! Buck Fever is a crazy phenomenon, and during my career I hope to come to understand it better. Thanks for your comment, and great site by the way!
October 25th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:21 am