A group of women recently got to experience the thrill of the hunt.
Kelly Godrey was inspired to help more women get involved as she noticed immense growth within the Texas Women’s Outdoors/LLC.
“This is our third annual mentored hunt where women are able to enjoy and learn about the entire hunting experience for a whole weekend,” Godfrey said. “We are so grateful for the Sierra Mesa Ranch and owner Rob Carringer, who allows us to make this happen.”
With five hunters and five guides (all women), Godfrey said Carringer allowed them to take the lead. Beginning on Friday, participants learn how to operate a firearm, hunt, clean their kill, and take meat home to feed their family.
“We are building a movement that celebrates heritage, strengthens conservation, and opens doors for women and families to experience the white places that shape us,” according to the group’s website.
Known to meet the old west with southern hospitality, Oma Leen’s Chef Austin Odom taught the hunt participants about wild game processing and meat preparation.
“He demonstrated a way to cook a venison backstrap and shared tips and tricks on wild game cooking,” Godfrey said. “He even left us with a recipe for us to take home!”
Godfrey said the end results of the weekend consisted of three white-tailed does and one blackbuck doe. Overall, the largest weighed 105 pounds.
“This experience allows the opportunity to learn many lessons beyond the hunt itself,” Godfrey said. “From acquiring patience to building confidence, we are proud to serve as a support system.”
From the deer to the weather, Godfrey emphasized the importance of recognizing nature’s role and how we cannot control everything.
“Nature does its own thing and when you learn to be patient, you are able to appreciate everything that occurs around the hunt,” Godfrey said. “From the sunrise to the sunset, you are reminded to live in the moment and understand the time to harvest will come on its own.”
Funds from the Lone Star News Foundation made this hunt possible.
