Old Memories, New Bonds: The Timeless Joy of Hunting and Fishing

Old Memories New Bonds The Timeless Joys Of Hunting

As the years roll by, the wild places hold more than just game and fish — they hold the stories of our lives. The hunts we’ve shared, the fish we’ve caught, the camps we’ve warmed ourselves around — these moments become treasured memories. As mates pass on, relatives age, and old hunting partners fade from the scene, it’s often those memories, and the trophies that capture them, that shine a light into the present.

A well-mounted buck, a boar skull, or the shoulder mount of a dugga boy buffalo isn’t just a decoration. It’s a time machine. Each one carries you back to that day — the early dawn, the cold breath on the wind, the pounding heart, and the moment of truth when the bullet struck high on the shoulder. You remember who you were with, what was said, and how it felt to share that hard-earned success.

The same goes for a beautiful photo enlarged on the wall, or a tanned cape thrown over the back of a favourite chair. They keep the story alive. They bring joy and spark conversations with friends and family. These memory mounts remind us that what we do out there isn’t just about the kill or the catch — it’s about living fully and carrying those moments with us.

As we get older, time feels more precious. Friends pass away, and sometimes we find ourselves with smaller circles than before. But the hunting and fishing world still offers new beginnings. Joining a club or reconnecting with others can fill that void.

A Very Different Memory From Kansas Archery Whitetail & Vintage Trapper Nelson Backpack

Here in Australia, I’m a member of the Game Hunters Association of Australia (GHAA). There’s a solid base of around 600 members, and while 20–40 might attend meetings, it only takes a chat around the campfire to spark new friendships. Sharing stories of the big hunts, swapping tips, or simply enjoying the warmth of the fire can open doors you didn’t expect. You’re never too old to make a new mate, and a club hunt or event can offer a fresh start.

In the USA, I’ve been fortunate to build a circle of hunting friends over many years — outfitters, guides, and regular hunters who make each camp feel like coming home. One of those mates, Rick from Paris, Texas, welcomed me into his group as if I’d been there forever. The fellowship is real — we swap stories, laugh, and pick up where we left off each season. Those bonds are priceless.

Favorite Memory From Africa

The truth is, hunting and fishing are about more than the pursuit. They’re about people, places, and memories. So join a club. Host a BBQ. at your house, Invite someone new along on a hunt. Share the joy, pass on the knowledge, and keep making new memories to sit alongside the old. Because at the end of the day, those moments are what last.