The Rookie Series: Novice Hunters Experience Virginia Deer Hunting with Outdoors Rambler

As the old song goes, two out of three ain't bad. So it was last deer season in Virginia as I had the privilege of introducing three adult newcomers to the ways of the deer woods. The hunts were part of a package put together by The Hunting Wire, an online news service that brings people the latest hunting news, issues and information about goings-on in the outdoor industry. Mossberg and Hornady Ammunition sponsored the hunts, providing a rifle (a Mossberg Patriot chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor) and Precision Hunter ammunition, specifically the 143-grain ELD-X bullet.

We hunted at multiple locations, with access graciously donated by Chip Watkins of Monquin Creek Outfitters and Bruce Lee of Kinloch Farm. Two of our hunting newbies are employees of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. The other is a nurse anesthetist who works a pressure-packed job.

Two out of our three hunters successfully tagged deer, although it might have taken a couple days. All had tremendous attitudes and outlooks. Hopefully, they are hunting this season and sharing their experiences with friends and others who might want to experience the outdoors from a hunter's point of view.

Check out their stories linked below. And, mentor youngsters and newcomers if you can. We need to broaden our base of conservationists.

Kimberly James

Savoring success on first time out...talking about eventually being a Hunter Ed instructor

Jessica Kelley

Nurse anesthetist knocking them cold while bringing a lifetime of outdoor passion to deer woods

George Braxton

A senior Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources officials, multiple advanced degrees, a certified bourbon steward and more, he wants to add "deer hunter" to his resume