Dear Star Mtn Ranch,

Much has been written, debated, argued and praised over the pros and cons of reserve hunting. I have hunted bull elk on BLM and National Forest all my life and I must confess, I am now in my late sixties and free range hunting, at best a grueling sport, is best done when young legs match the hearts desire. I've hunted elk in Colorado since I was able to keep up with my Dad and have wonderful memories I will never trade for anything. It never really mattered if I was successful, and since that was usually the case, my dream of a record call bull never materialized. As time progressed I began to have some luck and was rewarded with an occasional raghorn size bull. Human nature being what it is, I was pleased with my limited success, until I got my biggest bull, a nice 6x5 measuring 312-inches taken on a fully guided horse back hunt from dawn to dusk; miles from camp, where success and meat were measured in sweat and pain one step at a time. Fun stuff when you're twenty-s! ometing, but after forty years of construction work and countless hunts later, I am worn out. The burning desire is still there, but my body cannot overcome the years of abuse.

Last year was a clincher, I had to concede: I realized hunting as I've always done is over. I never thought it would happen, I am in good shape for my age, better than most of my friends but the mountain has no pity. I began to notice a difference a few seasons back when it took longer each year to make the climb. I lightened my load to the bare minimum, but at best I was only putting off the inevitable... elk hunting is for the young! I have considered another guided hunt on horseback but I can't settle for another "300-class maybe bull". I know the years left are few and I want to hang a massive trophy on my wall before I die. This might well be the last year I am physically able to achieve my dream. I have chosen your ranch over the others (after much research) due to your reputation for honesty, the unbelievable class of bull you offer, and above all, welcome patients with an old dream chaser like me. I look forward to hunting with you in August, for the biggest ! bull on your ranch.

Sincerely,
Ronald D. Louer