Redemption 20+ years in the making

Craig F

Craig F

Well-known member
I've been chasing the pintail ghost every season, sometimes getting close, and other times going years without even seeing one. Earlier in the season I finally had my shot and lost a crippled drake. I told myself to just keep after it and eventually everything will line up. Today everything lined up.

I got out for a quick hunt before work on the coast and finally got it done. I was out of the boat picking up a downed gadwall and as I got back to the rig I saw a cupped up drake pintail circling. I quickly grabbed my gun and sat down next to the boat and he made another pass and slid in, I wasn't taking any chances this time and folded him with one shot. I was pumped! Finally!

Gunning was rather good and I needed one more bird to fill my limit before heading to the office and sure enough here came two more drakes, they circled twice and one peeled off feet down into the rig. I folded him at 15 yards and I was off to work on cloud 9.

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Congratulations, Craig~

Mr. Elegance - twice over!

And, your timing is perfect: I have to saw out a pair of gunners this afternoon.

All the best,

SJS
 
And I get jealous of your widgeon pics!! Nice job on a perfect day. That is what we water fowlers live for......and memories we smile about.
 
OK I will try again... Congratulations Craig!!! I remember the feeling from back in the 80's when I shot my one and only! Enjoy the memories buddy!!
 
Congrats Craig. Boy do I know that feeling. A Drake Pintail was also my quest bird for many, many years. Finally converted about 6 years ago but had to go to Kansas to do it. A dandy trophy.
 
Two great looking drakes. The Pintail was a ghost for me as well until 3 years ago and now that I've broken the "curse" I've killed at least one every season since. Congrats on a great day of gunning
 
Very nice! Well deserved Craig we're starting to see more up my way as the season progresses. Hoping to get back out next week
 
Thanks everyone! Felt good to get the monkey off my back!

I saw this looked like the last day of temps in the teens at night and figured all the potholes would be locked up, I was right and it paid off. Lots of birds all over right now so hopefully they stick around.
 
Good for you man! Enjoying the pics lately, thanks. The cold climates produce some dandy specimens for sure. Those are beauties...
 
I thought I posted to this earlier, but I don't see it....

That first pic is about as pretty as it gets.
 
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