Hunting and Who We Are

I’m sure many of you have a preconceived notion of hunting. And for many of you, I’m sure that notion is not entirely positive or maybe apathetic. When I joined St. Lawrence Ducks Unlimited, I was in a similar position and wasn’t entirely sure what I was going to experience. I knew I was going to experience hunting but thought, “that will be it”. I was certainly not expecting to meet down-to-earth leaders who are dedicated conservationists, find myself laughing with strangers at lawn parties, or become a part of a community that is more friendly and welcoming than I could have ever imagined. Even the very activity of hunting has become so much deeper to me now after having experienced it. It is no longer just hunting but engaging in a craft that is as ancient as it is beautiful as it is euphoric. Not every activity can have you both shaking with adrenaline and contemplating the relationship between the life of an animal and your own before most people have even rolled out of bed. It’s something I believe all human beings should experience, and I’ve yet to meet people more excited to achieve this than SLU DU. These are the thoughts of SLU DU members reflecting on this idea and what hunting and the club means to them.  

“It’s something I’ve grown up doing, it’s part of who I am. Every time I catch the sunrise, I can’t help but think about home, about my family. Like I might be a hundred miles from home, but when that orange peaks over the trees I’m right back there.” Scott Doyle ’26

“You never really get ‘numb’ to it. Like the feelings might weaken, but then you take out a new hunter, and that smile on their face when they get their first bird, electric. Now, for me, it’s about that, and If I get a bird, too, that’s a bonus.” Cy Murphy ’24